Should I Fix or Stage Before Selling? | The Eastside Sellers Series

Not every home update pays off — but the right ones absolutely do.
When preparing to sell, the goal is to create a home that feels move-in ready. Buyers make emotional decisions in seconds, and simple, high-impact updates can set your home apart from the rest.

1. Focus on the Updates That Pay Off

Fresh interior paint in neutral tones, new carpet or refinished hardwoods, and modern lighting fixtures consistently yield one of the best returns on investment. Exterior improvements like pressure washing, fresh bark, and updated house numbers instantly boost curb appeal — and perceived value.

2. Why Staging Works

Even beautifully updated homes can fall flat without professional staging. Staging transforms a space from “someone else’s house” into their future home. It highlights flow, natural light, and focal points, while minimizing distractions. According to Compass data, staged homes sell faster and often for more money than vacant or cluttered ones.

3. Smart, Not Expensive

You don’t need to spend thousands on unnecessary remodels. The key is spending where buyers notice. Through my Compass network of designers, stagers, and contractors, I help Eastside sellers prepare strategically — investing in updates that matter and skipping those that don’t.

4. The Bottom Line

Before you swing a hammer or pick a paint color, let’s walk through your home together. I’ll identify which improvements and staging investments will generate the best return and ensure your home shines in today’s competitive market.

📞 Jeff Harrison | The Reese Team, Compass Real Estate
🌐 luxuryhomesnorthwest.com
📍 Serving Seattle’s Eastside — Kirkland, Redmond, Woodinville, Bellevue