Sellers

Staging & Selling Your Home For Top Dollar

David Olson, RealtorBy David Olson, Realtor · October 25, 2026 · 4 min read
Staging & Selling Your Home For Top Dollar

Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida

“Staging” refers to all the things you can do to make your home sparkle, which we know through experience is a KEY to obtaining the highest possible sales price.

Here’s what to know, whether you’re selling, buying or just curious.

Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.

Ready to make a move?I’ll show you what homes nearby are really selling for and which streets fit your budget.

What to know

Create good “curb appeal”. When the potential purchasers step from the salesperson’s car and see you home for the first time, you want that first impression to be a “WOW”! The lawn, bushes, flowers, etc., should be kept cut, trimmed, and edged. At the front door you want to maintain that great first impression. As the potential purchasers wait to enter your home they will be inspecting its exterior condition. So, be sure the front door and surrounding area are scrubbed clean and painted if necessary. You may wish to enhance the entrance area with decorative planter of colorful flowering plants. Keep the window areas clean and dressed up with curtains or drapes. Keep the curtains or drapes open when the home is being shown so as to keep the interior bright and cheery. If any of the interior walls need scrubbing or painting it is a good idea to get that accomplished immediately. Money spent on interior painting is usually more than recovered in the final sales price. Be sure to use a bright and neutral color. Be sure to keep the kitchen area sparkling and neat since it is an area of major importance. This is not always convenient, but the kitchen often sells the home. The bathrooms are also utmost importance. Be sure to keep them scrubbed and neat. Make up the beds each day and make sure all clothes are hung neatly away. During evening showings be sure to leave lights on in each room. This helps to show the home in its best light and makes the potential purchasers feel welcome. Keep all stairways clear of hazards. Make sure dishes, clothes, toys, newspapers and magazines, etc., are put away. Keep the family pet out of the way during showing. If the potential purchasers are uneasy around your pet, they will not want to stay. And, if they enjoy seeing your pet, they will be distracted. In either case, they are not focused on your home. It is important for the potential purchasers to feel as comfortable as possible while in your home. So as not to make them feel as if they are intruding, it is a good idea for you and your kids to leave them alone with the salesperson. They will then feel more comfortable t stay and take a good look, and the salesperson can doe his/her job. They will find you if they have a question. The more your home looks like a model home the closer to top market value you will receive!

A simple plan for your move

I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.

1Get clear on the numbersFor sellers, a realistic value for your specific home. For buyers, what your budget actually buys in the neighborhoods you like.
2Walk it with a builder’s eyeWe spot what an inspector is likely to flag before it becomes a negotiation.
3Prepare or positionSellers get a prep list and a staging plan. Buyers get a short list of homes that truly fit.
4Move with confidenceOffers, inspections and closing, with one steady guide keeping it calm and on schedule.

Getting the house ready, or making it yours

If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Ready to talk? Start a buyer plan or ask what your home is worth.

Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.

Your next step

Every move is different. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in the Twin Cities.

Twin Cities market notes

Stay close to the market, without the noise.

Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.

    It looks like you’re already on the list. Thank you! If something didn’t come through, call or text me at 952-314-9446.
    David Olson, Broker, Twin Cities Property Finder

    Thank you! You’re on the list.

    I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.

    — David
    Selling a homeStaging your home

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