The Secret Rivalry in Your Home (And How to Stage Both Like a Pro)

If you’re getting ready to sell your home, you’ve probably heard about the importance of staging. But where do you even start? And is one room really more important than another? The bedrooms might argue yes—after all, they’re the cozy retreats where everyone ends their day. But the living room would quickly jump in to remind you that it’s the real showstopper, hosting parties, holidays, and movie nights galore.

These two rooms are the real contenders when it comes to staging. So, let’s call it a tie. Both rooms deserve their moment in the spotlight since they are spaces that buyers will connect with the most. Since these are the perfect places to begin your staging efforts, getting these areas right sets you up for a great first impression for potential buyers. Let’s delve a bit deeper into these two contenders.

BEDROOMS – These are the CALM contenders. They want peacefulness, privacy, coziness, and serenity. To successfully stage this room, keep in mind that buyers will want to sense that they can rest and relax here.

·       Keep it uncluttered – use minimal décor, fewer knick-knacks, and clear surfaces.

·       Add cozy textures - make the bed the focal point with crisp linens, extra pillows and cozy throws.

·       Select neutral colors – think beige, off-white, soft greens, and opt for soft lighting.

·       Organize closet space – consider purchasing a closet system or items from a local container store.

·       Create a spa-like feel – drape plush robes on a chair, put a subtle fragrance on the dresser, and neatly stack fresh towels in the bathroom.

While the main rooms argue over the spotlight, here’s a sneaky little space that quietly makes a big impression. So, before we move on, I’m adding in a little bonus tip for an area that often gets overlooked…

HALLWAYS – These are the secret allies (and oft overlooked areas) that can help bedrooms and living rooms really shine.

• Clear the path – remove clutter and extra furniture.

• Add subtle touches – soft lighting, a runner, or a simple piece of art.

• Echo the rooms – carry colors or décor through to create flow.

LIVING ROOMS – Awww yes, the SOCIAL butterfly! Loud, social, and show-off ready. They thrive on gatherings, laughter, and the occasional TV binges with friends. Living rooms know that first impressions happen here. Keep this in mind when staging this area of your home.

• Design conversation spaces – eliminate crowding and pare down furniture by using a sofa, two chairs, a coffee table, and remove excess side tables.

• Create a focal point – add an accent chair or display fresh flowers on a well-placed coffee table. One staging company suggests avoiding overly busy décor so the room doesn’t feel cramped.

• Choose a neutral color palette – by choosing neutral tones, you will have a broader appeal to potential buyers. You can add color using pillows, art, or accessories. HGTV suggests the 60-30-10 color rule. 60% neutral main color, 30% secondary neutral color, and 10% accent color.

• Keep it tidy yet lived in – another staging company suggests that ‘living rooms should feel comfortable, cozy, and lived-in – but not cluttered.’

In real life, this rivalry isn’t just cute—it has practical lessons. It’s time to call a truce. Let the living room admire the bedroom’s cozy throne of pillows, while the bedroom returns the nod with quiet serenity. Now, let’s talk about how to draw balance between the two spaces.

BALANCE BOTH ROOMS – even though each room has its own personality and function, the goal is to help the home feel unified.

·       Select a cohesive color palette – as we’ve seen, a neutral palette will have the broadest appeal to buyers.

·       Consider flow – transitions should feel smooth. Don’t forget the hallway ‘alliance’ mentioned above. Align furniture throughout so buyers can move easily and naturally from one space to another.

·       Balance energy – It’s fine to highlight each room’s strength. Keep in mind a lively, well-lit living room contrasts nicely with serene, restful bedrooms and sells the ‘complete lifestyle’.

So, the next time your bedroom glares at the living room, or your living room whispers about the bedroom’s comfy sheets, remember: a happy home is all about balance, flow, and letting each room show its best side. When your rooms get along, your home becomes irresistible to buyers—because everyone loves a house that “feels right.”

Sandi Downing Real Estate/Keller Williams Greater Omaha

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