Staging Your Long Island Home to Sell: A Seller’s Guide

How do I stage my Long Island home to sell?
To stage your Long Island home effectively, focus on decluttering, neutralizing your decor, highlighting your home's best features, and creating an inviting atmosphere for buyers. Partnering with a local expert like Eric Berman REALTOR can help you prioritize staging efforts that have the biggest impact.

Why Staging Matters on Long Island

Staged homes sell faster—and often for more money. On Long Island, where buyers have a wide range of choices and expectations vary by neighborhood, staging can set your home apart.

National data shows staged homes sell 88% faster and for 5–15% more than non-staged homes. And locally, homes that show well online generate more in-person showings, which increases your chances of multiple offers.

Eric Berman REALTOR has seen firsthand how even small staging improvements can create emotional connections that drive quicker, stronger offers.

Step 1: Start with a Deep Declutter

Buyers want to envision their own lives in the space. That’s hard to do when your countertops are cluttered or every wall is filled with personal photos.

Begin with:

• Clearing surfaces (kitchen counters, nightstands, bathroom vanities)

• Removing personal photos and memorabilia

• Packing away excess furniture to open up space

• Organizing closets (buyers will look inside!)

A decluttered space feels cleaner, larger, and more inviting.

Step 2: Neutralize the Decor

Your goal is broad appeal—not personal taste. Aim for soft, neutral colors and timeless design.

Focus on:

• Painting bold walls a neutral beige, gray, or soft white

• Replacing dated curtains with simple white panels

• Removing loud or specific-themed décor (sports, political, religious)

Eric Berman often works with stagers who understand Long Island buyer preferences and can help strike the right tone.

Step 3: Highlight Key Rooms First

If you can’t stage the whole house, focus on:

• Living room – Make it warm and conversational

• Kitchen – Clear counters, add a bowl of fresh fruit

• Primary bedroom – Use light bedding and soft lighting

• Bathrooms – Clean, uncluttered, with fresh towels

Buyers form opinions in these rooms more than anywhere else.

Step 4: Maximize Light and Space

Natural light makes spaces feel bigger and more welcoming.

Tips:

• Open all blinds and curtains for showings and photos

• Replace burnt-out or dim bulbs

• Use mirrors to bounce light in darker areas

• Rearrange furniture to improve flow

Eric Berman’s team will help optimize lighting and layout based on your home’s design.

Step 5: Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions start before buyers walk through the door. Make sure your exterior reflects the care inside.

Checklist:

• Power wash siding, steps, and walkways

• Repaint or refresh the front door

• Add seasonal plants or planters

• Mow the lawn and edge walkways

A clean, welcoming entrance sets a positive tone for the entire tour.

Step 6: Use Props and Accessories Strategically

Small touches can make a space feel lived-in and aspirational.

Staging props that work:

• Throw pillows and blankets

• Art that complements the wall color

• Table settings in the dining area

• Books and plants on shelves

Avoid overdoing it—less is more. The goal is inspiration, not distraction.

Step 7: Clean Like a Pro

Nothing turns off buyers faster than grime. Before showings and photos:

• Deep clean bathrooms and kitchens

• Dust all surfaces, including baseboards and vents

• Shampoo carpets or polish wood floors

• Eliminate odors (pets, food, smoke)

Eric Berman can connect you with trusted Long Island cleaners who specialize in pre-listing prep.

Step 8: Stage for the Photos

Online first impressions matter most. Buyers scroll before they schedule.

What to do:

• Remove floor mats and trash cans

• Straighten bed skirts and shower curtains

• Hide cords and remote controls

• Make sure blinds are even and furniture is aligned

Eric’s team works closely with top-tier photographers to ensure your staged home shines online.

Step 9: Maintain Between Showings

Once your home is staged, it needs to stay that way.

• Make beds daily

• Hide dirty laundry

• Keep dishes out of the sink

• Do a quick sweep before each showing

If you're living in the home while it’s listed, Eric can help set a manageable maintenance routine.

Final Thoughts

Staging is one of the easiest ways to increase the appeal—and value—of your Long Island home. You don’t need a full makeover. With expert guidance and strategic tweaks, you can create a space that speaks to buyers.

Want help staging your Long Island home to sell?

Contact Eric Berman REALTOR today for a personalized staging plan and expert support.

Meta Description:
Learn how to stage your Long Island home to sell faster and for more money. Eric Berman REALTOR shares expert tips for maximizing appeal and value.