Staging and Prep Tips to Sell Your Home Faster and for Top Dollar
Why Staging and Preparation Matter
When it comes to selling your home in La Crosse, Winona, Houston County, or anywhere in the Driftless Region, first impressions matter. Buyers often form opinions within the first few seconds of walking into a property—or even from the first few photos they see online.
That’s where staging and preparation come in. A well-prepped home feels inviting, spacious, and move-in ready. Staging highlights your home’s best features, minimizes distractions, and helps buyers imagine themselves living there. Studies consistently show that staged homes sell faster and often for a higher price.
Julie Delap works with sellers to prepare their homes strategically, making sure each property stands out in a competitive market.
Step 1: Declutter and Depersonalize
Less is more. Buyers need to see the home—not your belongings.
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Declutter: Remove excess items from countertops, closets, and shelves.
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Depersonalize: Take down family photos, collections, or anything that might distract buyers.
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Simplify: Think clean, neutral, and welcoming.
Julie often advises clients to pack away personal items early—it makes the home look bigger and gets you a head start on moving.
Step 2: Deep Clean Everything
A spotless home signals to buyers that it has been well cared for.
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Shampoo carpets and mop floors.
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Scrub bathrooms and kitchens until they shine.
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Wash windows inside and out for maximum light.
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Eliminate odors from pets, cooking, or smoking.
Julie can connect sellers with trusted local cleaning professionals if the task feels overwhelming.
Step 3: Focus on Curb Appeal
Your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see. Make sure it sets the right tone.
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Mow the lawn and trim bushes.
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Plant flowers or place a few potted plants near the entrance.
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Power wash siding and walkways.
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Repaint or touch up the front door.
A small investment in curb appeal can yield a big return on buyer interest.
Step 4: Highlight Key Rooms
Not every room needs professional staging—but certain spaces have the most impact.
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Living Room: Arrange furniture to create an open, welcoming flow.
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Kitchen: Clear counters, add a bowl of fresh fruit, and keep it sparkling.
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Primary Bedroom: Use neutral bedding and minimal décor to create a relaxing feel.
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Bathrooms: Fresh towels, clean shower curtains, and minimal counter clutter make a huge difference.
Julie often suggests small updates, like new light fixtures or hardware, that can modernize a room without breaking the budget.
Step 5: Neutralize Colors and Décor
While your personal style might be bold, buyers prefer neutral spaces that feel like a blank canvas.
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Repaint brightly colored walls in soft, neutral tones.
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Replace patterned curtains or bedding with simple, clean designs.
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Remove unusual décor items that might distract from the home itself.
Neutral doesn’t mean boring—it means universally appealing.
Step 6: Maximize Light and Space
A bright, airy home feels bigger and more inviting.
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Open curtains and blinds.
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Replace dim lightbulbs with brighter, energy-efficient ones.
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Use mirrors to reflect light and create a sense of space.
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Rearrange or remove bulky furniture to improve flow.
Julie often advises sellers on furniture placement to show off each room’s potential.
Step 7: Consider Professional Staging
In some cases, hiring a professional stager is worth the investment. They bring in furniture, artwork, and accessories to showcase your home’s best features.
Julie works with staging professionals in the La Crosse area and can recommend the right partner based on your property, budget, and goals.
Step 8: Don’t Forget the Details
The little things make a big difference:
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Replace burnt-out lightbulbs.
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Fix leaky faucets or squeaky doors.
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Add fresh flowers or greenery before showings.
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Make the home smell fresh but not overwhelming.
Buyers notice when a home feels well cared for.
Step 9: Stage for Photos and Virtual Tours
Today’s buyers often see your home online before they ever step inside. High-quality photos and videos are essential. Staging for photos is slightly different than staging for in-person showings—angles, lighting, and small props matter.
Julie partners with professional photographers who specialize in real estate, ensuring your listing makes a great impression online and drives more showings.
Step 10: Work with a Realtor Who Knows What Sells
Staging is not about decorating—it’s about marketing. Julie combines staging strategies with her knowledge of local buyer preferences to present your home in the best possible light. She’ll advise you on where to spend (and where not to spend) to maximize return.
From professional photos to compelling listing descriptions, Julie’s marketing plan ensures your home stands out in the Driftless Region’s competitive market.
Selling a home takes more than just putting up a “For Sale” sign. With proper preparation and staging, you can attract more buyers, sell faster, and maximize your return.
Whether you’re decluttering, boosting curb appeal, or considering professional staging, having the right guidance makes all the difference. Julie Delap offers sellers in La Crosse, Winona, Houston County, and beyond the tools, resources, and expertise needed to shine in today’s real estate market.
