How To Stage Your Home While Still Living in It

By Jeff Burke

We bring professionalism, a high level of communication, negotiation, and execution to all our clients. We serve the greater Lansing and Grand Rapids- West MI area, where we are committed to protecting our client’s best interest and giving that 5-star experience!

Selling your home while still living in it might seem challenging, but with the right approach, it’s completely doable. With some effort in preparing your home, you can save time and stress and even boost your sale price. As a professional real estate agent, I’ve helped homeowners stage their homes effectively without sacrificing their daily routines. Here are five simple steps to make it happen:

1. Declutter and pack early. Think of decluttering and packing early as your “pre-moving.” Put away seasonal clothes, personal photos, and anything you don’t use daily. Doing this will make your space feel bigger and cleaner and give an impression that it’s move-in ready for serious homebuyers.

2. Deep clean. A spotless home is a big turn-on for potential homebuyers, especially if it’s their first time seeing your home. After cleaning your home thoroughly, maintain it with a simple daily routine, such as wiping down counters, putting dishes away, and keeping the floors tidy. A little effort each day can help you avoid last-minute stress before showings.

“Plan for showings so you can leave quickly during visits to make buyers feel comfortable exploring without pressure.”

3. Create a showroom vibe. Buyers love neutral, airy spaces, so consider swapping out bold bedding or decor for lighter, inviting colors. I suggest arranging your furniture to make the rooms more open and welcoming. If you have kids or pets, putting away extra toys and supplies can help keep everything tidy and appealing to potential buyers.

4. Make a “showing-ready” checklist. Before leaving for work or errands, do a quick five-minute sweep to ensure your home is always ready for buyers. Make the beds, wipe the kitchen counter, and tuck away any daily clutter. Don’t forget to open the blinds for natural light and set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. This way, your home will always be welcoming to visitors.

5. Plan for showings in advance. Leaving the house during showings gives buyers space to explore comfortably without feeling rushed. To make this easier, have a plan in place for when showings are scheduled: you could head to the park, grab a coffee, or run errands. Knowing where to go ensures you can leave the house quickly when needed.

Staging your home effectively while you still live in it can attract more buyers, speed up the sale, and potentially lead to a better price without disrupting your daily routine. Feel free to reach out if you’d like more tips on getting your home ready to sell. Call me at (517) 853-6385 or email me at jeff@jeffburkeassociates.com with any questions. I look forward to hearing from you.