If you focus on home staging just one room in a client’s home, make it this one

When it comes to staging a home for sale, not every room gets equal billing. And according to the 2025 Profile of Home Staging report by the National Association of Realtors®, one space has a bigger impact than any other: the living room.

Yes, kitchens sell homes. Bathrooms matter. But if you only have the budget, time, or buy-in from your seller to stage one space, the living room is where to start. It’s the make-or-break room that sets the tone for the entire home, and smart home staging for property practitioners starts there.

The living room is the make-or-break space

The NAR® 2025 report revealed that 83% of buyer practitioners said a staged home made it easier for buyers to visualise a property as their future home, with 37% finding the living room most important. That’s more than any other room in the house.

Why? Because the living room is the heart of the home. It’s the first space buyers picture themselves in, relaxing on a couch, entertaining friends, or winding down after work. If this room feels inviting, modern, and cohesive, buyers mentally fill in the rest of the home with that same energy.

Staged living spaces influence whole-home perception

Think of the living room as the handshake of the house. It gives the first impression and sets the tone for what’s to come. A well-executed staging to sell strategy here can influence how buyers perceive the kitchen, bedrooms, and even outdoor spaces.

In fact, the NAR® report showed that buyers who liked the living room were significantly more likely to forgive minor flaws elsewhere. That’s the power of selling psychology. A thoughtfully staged living room creates emotional momentum more than facts and helps to close those deals.

Where to start when you can’t stage it all

In an ideal world, every room would be photo shoot-ready. But we all know sellers don’t always have the time or the budget for full-home staging. So what do you do when you’ve got to be strategic?

You stage the lounge. Every time.

Focus on:

• Decluttering and depersonalising: Remove excess furniture, family photos, and anything too taste-specific
• Warm neutral tones: Greys, beiges, soft whites and earthy accents make the room feel light, clean, and move-in ready
• A strong focal point in the living room: This could be a fireplace, window, or stylish coffee table setup. Anchor the room around it
• Texture and layering: Think throw pillows, woven rugs, curtains and artwork. These add warmth and dimension
• Layout that invites conversation: Avoid everything pushed up against the walls. Group seating to suggest connection and comfort

These touches don’t have to break the bank, but they do need to feel intentional. The difference between “lived-in” and “ready-to-move-in” is where the magic lies.

Staging that sells: starting with the lounge

A good home staging consultation helps clients understand the why behind the recommendations. It’s not about hiding flaws, it’s about highlighting potential. A professionally staged home doesn't need to feel sterile; it should feel aspirational yet attainable.

This is where real estate marketing tools come in. Use before-and-after visuals, mood boards, and even virtual staging apps to help your client picture the result. Many sellers hesitate because they can't visualise the transformation. Show them what’s possible and see how it sells.

How property practitioners can guide clients through the staging process

Not every practitioner has the time or expertise to become a full-time stager. But you can be a great guide. Offer practical tips or refer trusted staging professionals. You might even keep a curated list of modern living room decor pieces or local hire companies to help clients get started.

Your role isn’t to move cushions, it’s to move properties. But by helping clients see the value of a staged living room, you’re showing them how to present their biggest asset in its best light.

A little staging goes a long way

You don’t need a complete makeover to make a home feel special. One well-staged living room can lift the entire home’s perceived value. So, when clients ask where to focus their energy, you’ve got a simple, research-backed answer.

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