Before a home ever hits the market, preparation is everything — and that’s where the Accredited Staging Professional (ASP) designation makes a difference. An ASP is a specially trained real estate professional who understands how to prepare a property for sale so it appeals to the widest pool of buyers. Staged homes statistically sell faster and for more money than non-staged homes because they are positioned as desirable, move-in-ready products rather than simply lived-in houses.
That philosophy guides Audra Maccariello, ASP and Associate Real Estate Broker with Coldwell Banker. She helps sellers transform their homes into market-ready showcases with practical, strategic steps that create maximum impact.
Curb appeal sells: Freshen the entrance with clean walkways, trimmed landscaping, mulch, and a welcoming front door. Add a new doormat, simple plants, or a wreath. Power wash, mow, and tidy up. First impressions start here — make buyers want a showing.
Get rid of clutter and depersonalize: Clear out excess furniture, photos, collections, and electronics. Buyers need to see the home — not your belongings — and picture themselves living there.
Make your home sparkle: A spotless home is essential. Clean windows, appliances, closets, and cabinets. Consider hiring a cleaning service. Store extra items neatly in the garage, attic, or a storage pod.
Apply a fresh coat of paint: Neutral paint offers the biggest return and makes rooms feel larger and brighter. Remove worn wallpaper and refresh tired walls.
Let the sunshine in: Wash windows and screens, clean blinds, and brighten rooms with updated light bulbs. Replace burnt-out bulbs and add lamps where needed.
Get rid of smells: Eliminate odors from cooking, pets, or smoke by cleaning carpets and drapes. Open windows to bring in fresh air.
Make repairs: Fix minor issues like sticking doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, or dripping faucets. Small problems can signal poor maintenance to buyers.
Make space: Remove a few large furniture pieces to open rooms. Clear kitchen and bath counters. Pack away seasonal clothing — buyers will look in closets and cabinets.
Make the bathrooms feel luxurious: Add fresh towels, a new shower curtain, and simple guest soaps. Keep counters clean and free of personal items.
Safety and security: Secure valuables, jewelry, and collectables while your home is on the market.
When you place a home on the market, it becomes a product. Like anything on a shelf, it has features, benefits, and competition. To stand out, it must be priced correctly and presented better than the rest.
Home staging is the process of preparing a private residence for sale to appeal to the greatest number of buyers. The goal is to sell more quickly and for the highest possible price. Properly staged homes consistently sell faster and for more money.
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