Key facts
- Staging should help buyers understand space and imagine living in a home.
- Attractive photos can create unrealistic expectations if the actual space is smaller or less functional.
- Clearing countertops or removing excess furniture can improve a home's perceived functionality.
- Agents should balance online presentation with the in-person experience of a property.
Professional photography is crucial for selling homes, but an overemphasis on creating attractive listing photos can lead to a disconnect with the buyer's in-person experience. Greg Dallaire, Owner and Realtor at Dallaire Realty, argues that staging should aim to help potential buyers understand a property's space and potential, rather than solely producing visually appealing images. He notes that furniture choices that look good in photos might make rooms feel smaller or less functional when viewed in person. Dallaire advises agents to consider how buyers will perceive the space for their own belongings and daily life, suggesting that staging should solve problems, not hide them. This involves identifying and addressing potential hesitations, such as cluttered countertops or oversized furniture, and ensuring the actual home experience aligns with its online presentation. Ultimately, thoughtful staging that presents a home clearly, comfortably, and realistically is more effective than elaborate decorations alone.