Modern Market REALTORS® | Home Staging Secrets

If you think staging a home is just about fluffing pillows and lightingcandles, think again. At Modern Market REALTORS®, home staging is a powerful marketing strategy—not a decorative afterthought.From first impression to final offer, staging creates a vibe that whispers, “This is the one.”

Imagine stepping into a space where the lighting is warm, the furniture layout flows, and every corner feels thoughtfully curated. That’s no accident—it’s staging done right. And it works. Staged homes photograph better, show faster, and often sell for more. It’s not magic. It’s marketing—with taste. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the specific ways staging impacts every aspect of a home sale. You’ll learn how to leverage strategic design choices to highlight your property’s strengths, navigate common pitfalls, and understand the real-world ROI demonstrated across local Fargo-Moorhead listings. Whether you’re selling a cozy ranch in West Fargo or a luxury estate in downtown Fargo, these staging principles adapt to any price point and style.

Enhanced Presentation of Properties

Staging showcases a home’s potential by framing its strongest features. In Fargo-Moorhead, where weather and regional architectural styles influence buyer expectations, it’s critical to highlight elements like natural sunlight, open floor plans, and well-maintained finishes. For instance, a sun-drenched breakfast nook that might be overlooked can become a focal point when accessorized with a simple vase of fresh flowers, a plush bench cushion, and minimal tabletop decor.

Modern Market REALTORS® collaborates with professional photographers immediately after staging to capture that “wow” factor. These high-quality photos then populate MLS listings, online real estate portals, and social media ads—providing potential buyers an emotional hook before they ever schedule a tour. Data from our last ten staged listings in 56560 and 58102 zip codes shows an average 30% increase in click-through rates compared to unstaged competitors.

Consider the impact of lighting: swapping out dim, outdated light bulbs for bright, daylight-spectrum LEDs instantly makes rooms appear larger and more inviting. Paired with an arrangement of tapered candles or a statement chandelier, a living room can transition from bland to magazine-worthy. Strategically placed mirrors amplify natural light, while neutral-toned drapes drawn back frame picturesque views of Fargo’s skyline or Moorhead’s riverwalk.

Maximized Space Efficiency

Smart furniture placement makes rooms feel open and usable. In older homes common in Moorhead’s downtown district, cramped layouts can intimidate buyers looking for modern living spaces. Staging helps by removing oversized pieces, angling sofas to create natural conversation areas, and using multi-functional items—like ottomans with hidden storage—to showcase versatility.

In smaller spaces—such as one-bedroom condos by the Red River—our team opts for streamlined, low-profile furniture to avoid blocking sightlines. A slim-profile console table behind a sofa instead of a bulky entertainment center can grant 20% more visible floor space, a metric that appeals to urban buyers. We also highlight architectural details—like built-in shelving or exposed brick—by styling shelves with curated decor and strategically placing a small accent chair nearby, inviting buyers to envision a cozy reading nook.

Our staging assessments always include a “space audit,” where we measure traffic flow patterns and identify bottlenecks. By creating clear pathways—especially from the kitchen to dining area, or entryway to living room—buyers can immediately see how the home functions in everyday life. This clarity often translates to a faster decision, as buyers don’t have to mentally rearrange bulky furniture themselves.

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$4,750,000 1225 Oakview Road
Long Lake, MN 55356

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$2,995,500 6082 150th Street SE
Prior Lake, MN 55372

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IDX MLS IDX Listing Disclosure © 2025

The data relating to real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity SM Program of the Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota, Inc. The information provided is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Properties subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. ©2024 Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota, Inc All rights reserved.

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“I never realized how much of a difference staging could make until I worked with Shannon. She transformed our home into something out of a magazine. We had multiple offers within days—and I’m convinced the presentation sealed the deal. She didn’t just list our home—she showcased it.”
– Dana R., West Fargo Home Seller

Home Selling Services in Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo & Horace

Increased Buyer Appeal

Professional staging
translates beautifully to photos—and in real estate, the camera isn’t just watching. It’s working. Online listings with professionally staged homes consistently outperform their unstaged counterparts by generating up to 40% more inquiries, according to recent MLS data from the Fargo-Moorhead region.

When a buyer browses through dozens of listings, the emotional connection sparked by a warm, cohesive presentation often drives them to click “Schedule a Showing.” In our last quarter alone, staged properties had an average of 15 showings in the first two weeks, compared to 8 showings for unstaged homes. This increased foot traffic can lead to competitive offers—sometimes above asking price—because buyers perceive the property as well-cared-for and move-in ready.

Consider the kitchen: a bright, neutral palette with a few strategic pops of greenery can make even a modest space feel sophisticated. When prospective buyers see polished quartz countertops, cheerful under-cabinet lighting, and a bowl of fresh lemons in listing photos, they’re more likely to prioritize that home over similar listings. In fact, our tracking shows that kitchen staging alone can boost a listing’s click-through rate by 20% on major real estate platforms.

Neutralized Decor for Broader Appeal

By removing overly personal touches—family photos, bright-colored accent walls, or niche collectibles—staging invites a wider audience. Neutral colors, such as soft grays, taupes, and creams, provide a blank canvas onto which buyers can project their own style. In a culturally diverse market like Fargo-Moorhead, it’s important to present a home as universally appealing.

For example, rather than showcasing a themed bedroom (e.g., sports memorabilia or a child’s cartoon motif), our stagers replace bedding and decor with sophisticated, minimalist accents. A subtle textured throw, a pair of neutral decorative pillows, and a simple piece of abstract art can speak to multiple demographics—first-time buyers, young families, or retirees—without alienating anyone.

Additionally, depersonalization allows buyers to focus on the home’s features—like crown molding, hardwood floors, or built-in bookcases—instead of being distracted by personal taste. This increases the perceived value and encourages emotional engagement, which often translates to stronger offers.

Competitive Edge in Real Estate

In a crowded market, staged homes rise to the top. It shows sellers are serious and organized—and buyers take notice. First impressions happen online, where 90% of buyers start their search. Listings with high-quality, staged photos garner more leads and fewer price reductions, maintaining momentum toward a stronger closing.

Our strategy includes a “pre-listing staging consultation,” where Shannon walks through the property with the homeowner, identifying areas of improvement and recommending minor cosmetic upgrades—fresh paint, new hardware, or updated light fixtures—that deliver maximum impact for minimal cost. These preemptive actions often prevent price reductions down the line, preserving seller equity.

Modern Market REALTORS® also partners with local furniture rental companies and professional organizers to secure the right pieces for each room. Whether it’s a mid-century accent chair for a Fargo loft or a tufted velvet sofa for a West Fargo luxury home, every element is chosen to elevate the listing above comparable properties.

Boosted Buyer Interest

Staged homes simply look more inviting. The ambiance, flow, and visual harmony stir emotions—creating connections that spark faster, stronger offers. Our data shows staged properties receive offers 20% faster than unstaged ones, with 30% of offers coming in within the first week of listing.

For instance, a staged formal dining room in a Moorhead ranch home might feature a neutral area rug, a carefully placed center table arrangement, and ambient candlelight. This setup allows buyers to envision hosting holiday dinners or birthday celebrations, evoking nostalgia and aspiration simultaneously.

Additionally, staging often includes scent marketing—fresh-baked cookies or a light citrus diffuser—to create a multisensory experience during showings. Research shows that pleasant smells can increase perceived home value by up to 5%. Modern Market REALTORS® coordinators ensure each showing environment remains clean, well-lit, and subtly scented for maximum appeal.

Quicker Sales Process

Because they show so well, staged homes spend less time on the market. When buyers connect quickly and clearly, sales move faster and smoother. In 2024, Modern Market REALTORS® recorded an average of 18 days on market for staged properties, compared to 42 days for unstaged listings.

Faster sales benefit sellers in multiple ways: reduced carrying costs (mortgage, utilities, maintenance), less stress from prolonged showings, and quicker access to the proceeds for reinvestment. In competitive seasons—such as spring and summer—staging ensures your listing stands out during peak buyer activity, capitalizing on demand rather than languishing through price reductions.

Our process includes weekly market reviews. If a staged home hasn’t generated expected traffic, Shannon collaborates with the homeowner and photographer to adjust lighting, swap out decor elements, or create targeted virtual tours, ensuring sustained interest until closing.

Higher Selling Prices for Staged Homes

Buyers pay more for what they fall in love with. When a home feels luxurious, intentional, and move-in ready, price becomes a secondary conversation. Data from the National Association of REALTORS® indicates staged homes sell for an average of 6–10% more than unstaged comparisons—translating to thousands of extra dollars in your pocket.

In our own market, we’ve found staging can often recoup more than the staging investment. For a $300,000 home staged for roughly $2,000, many sellers net an additional $10,000–$15,000 at closing. That’s a 5:1 or 7:1 return on staging dollars. Shannon works with owners to select high-impact rooms for staging—often focusing on living area, kitchen, and master suite—to maximize value without staging the entire property.

Furthermore, buyers perceive staged homes as cared-for, which reduces negotiation leverage on inspection and repair requests. They are less likely to submit lowball offers or ask for extensive concessions when they feel the home meets a higher standard of move-in readiness.

Standing Out in a Competitive Market

Every detail matters. Staging shows care, professionalism, and effort. It proves to buyers that the home is worthy of their attention—and their best offer. Even in a soft market, staged homes maintain appeal and can command multiple offers in certain neighborhoods.

Modern Market REALTORS® constantly track local competition. If a home in Moorhead’s popular Highland Park neighborhood is similarly priced, we study its staging decisions—furniture style, color palette, accessorizing—and position our client’s home to be one step ahead. It might be as simple as swapping in a more modern coffee table or repainting an accent wall to reflect the latest design trends.

By staying ahead of regional staging trends—such as farmhouse-chic or transitional contemporary styles—we ensure your home remains relevant and desirable to active buyer demographics, from young professionals to growing families.

Commitment to the Fargo Real Estate Community

Jim and Shannon are more than real estate agents—they’re local advocates. With deep ties to Fargo and its surrounding communities, they bring insight and dedication to every listing. Staging is just one example of their commitment to delivering standout results for their clients.

Beyond staging, they participate in community events—like neighborhood block parties, charity runs, and school fundraisers—to stay attuned to local preferences. This grassroots understanding allows them to advise sellers on which amenities to highlight during staging—whether it’s proximity to top-rated West Fargo schools, easy access to Moorhead’s parks, or energy-efficient upgrades that resonate with eco-conscious buyers.

Their commitment extends to educating homeowners: they host quarterly seminars on home improvement, staging basics, and market trends at the Fargo Chamber of Commerce. These free workshops empower sellers to make informed decisions—even if they choose partial DIY staging—ensuring every listing benefits from expert guidance.

Explore Home Seller Services from Modern Market REALTORS®

If you’re thinking of selling your home or buying a home, our services are built to make the process not just manageable—but downright enjoyable. At Modern Market REALTORS®, Jim and Shannon bring a concierge-style experience to every listing, blending high-level strategy with Midwest approachability. Here’s how we help sellers shine:
All-in-One Real Estate Services Hub


– From home valuation to closing table, our streamlined process is designed to save time and eliminate stress. We coordinate inspections, negotiate offers, and manage paperwork so you focus on your next chapter.
Seller Resources & Listing Prep


– Get access to tools, checklists, and professional insights on staging, pricing, and legal documents. Our intuitive online portal tracks every task—from scheduling contractors to confirming MLS uploads—keeping you in full control.
Luxury Listing Services


– Have a high-end home to list? We understand discretion, value, and how to attract qualified luxury buyers in today’s market. From professional videography to custom property brochures, we ensure your property stands apart.

Whether it’s your first sale or your fifth, we treat your property like it’s the most important home on the market—because to you, it is. Schedule your free consultation today and see why sellers across Fargo-Moorhead choose Jim and Shannon.

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