Vacant Property Staging:

Turning Empty Homes into Sold Homes

Vacant properties can be a challenging sell — most buyers have difficulty imagining how an empty space could become their future home. Empty rooms often feel smaller, lack warmth, and can seem less functional, making it harder for buyers to emotionally connect.

This is where vacant property staging makes all the difference. By thoughtfully placing furniture, art, and accessories, you can transform empty rooms into welcoming, functional living spaces that highlight a property’s best features and make a lasting impression on potential buyers.

Why Vacant Property Staging Works

When prospective buyers walk into an empty house, they often struggle to picture how the space would work for their lifestyle. Without furniture to provide context and scale, rooms can feel cold, awkward, or even smaller than they actually are. Staging helps fill in those blanks, creating a clear vision that buyers can connect with emotionally.

A professionally staged home does more than just look attractive — it draws attention to key features, enhances the overall flow, and helps the property feel ready to move into.

The ultimate goal is to remove uncertainty and show buyers how each space can support their everyday lives.

Buyers need to see the possibilities – Staging brings warmth, purpose, and flow, helping buyers clearly visualize how they’d use each room. A well-staged property feels move-in ready, which enhances its perceived value.
It’s a creative opportunity – With no decluttering needed, you have the freedom to design a polished, on-trend space that aligns with buyer preferences.
Furniture tells a story – Carefully selected furniture helps define the function of each room while bringing out its best features.

For example:

A modern loft staged with sleek furniture and bold lighting appeals to young professionals.
A cozy family room with a sectional sofa and reading nook attracts families looking for comfort and function.

Planning for a Successful Staging

Proper planning is essential when preparing to stage a vacant property. Ask yourself:

How many rooms should be staged?

Each bedroom you stage should include a dressed bed with pillows, a duvet or comforter, and accent cushions.
A dining room benefits from a set table, fresh flowers, and good lighting to enhance its appeal.

What design style suits the property and location?

A modern downtown condo will need a different aesthetic than a suburban family home.
High-end homes may require luxury furnishings, while contemporary urban properties are best suited to clean, minimalist design.
Understanding the target market helps ensure your staging resonates with potential buyers.

Do you have the right inventory?

Effective staging requires a mix of furniture, lighting, rugs, wall art, and accessories.
If you don’t have all the pieces you need, consider partnering with furniture rental companies or investing in versatile, reusable pieces that fit different homes and styles.

Furniture Rental: A Smart Solution

If you’re new to staging or need pieces in a particular style, renting furniture can be a smart, cost-effective option. Many rental companies offer:

A wide variety of styles, from modern to transitional, allowing you to match any property.
Multiple sets of high-demand furniture, ensuring a consistent look across your stagings.
Delivery, setup, and pickup services, which saves you time and effort.

Setting up a business account with furniture rental companies can also give you access to preferred pricing, exclusive inventory, and customized packages based on the size and type of property you’re staging.

To keep costs under control, pay attention to rental periods and pickup deadlines to avoid unnecessary fees. If a property takes longer to sell, try negotiating extensions or discounted long-term rental rates.

What Rooms Should Be Staged?

You don’t always need to stage every room in a home, but certain spaces have the biggest impact on buyers.

Entryway – The first impression counts. A console table, mirror, and some greenery can instantly create a warm welcome.
Living Room – As the central gathering space, this room should feel comfortable and functional. Use a well-sized sofa, accent chairs, and a coffee table to define the area.
Dining Room – Help buyers picture entertaining by setting the table with place settings, glassware, and a centrepiece.
Kitchen – Even small details, like barstools, a bowl of fruit, or stylish canisters, can make the kitchen feel more inviting.
Family Room – Arrange seating to encourage conversation and create a cozy vibe with books, throw blankets, and pillows.
Foyer/Hallway – These spaces help create flow. Adding a bench, artwork, or a simple rug can make them feel intentional.
Powder Room – Even tiny spaces matter. A clean hand towel, decorative soap, and a small plant add a polished touch.

For luxury homes, staging extra spaces like home offices, patios, and finished basements can add significant perceived value.

Estimating a Staging Project

Providing clients with a clear, detailed estimate helps avoid confusion and ensures everyone understands the scope of the project. When preparing a quote, factor in:

Full-service staging fees – This usually covers the consultation, selection and placement of furniture and décor, and removal once the property is sold.
Furniture rental costs – Include the cost of renting furniture, as well as delivery and pickup fees.
Accessory rentals – Items like rugs, artwork, table lamps, and decorative accents should be included in your pricing.
Labour costs – Don’t forget to account for your time (or your team’s) for setup, styling, and takedown.
Storage fees – If you own furniture, the cost of storing it between projects should also be built into your rates.
Transportation – Factor in fuel and mileage if you’re transporting furniture and accessories yourself.

A detailed quote helps demonstrate the value of staging and sets clear expectations with your clients.

Vacant property staging is more than just filling a house with furniture — it’s about creating an experience that helps buyers see themselves living there. A thoughtfully staged home doesn’t just show buyers where furniture could go; it helps them envision the life they could build there.

Whether they’re imagining hosting dinners, relaxing after a long day, or waking up in a bright, welcoming bedroom, effective staging helps buyers form an emotional connection — which often translates into faster sales and higher offers.