The Power of First Impressions in Real Estate

When selling a home, first impressions matter more than ever. According to the newly released 2025 Profile of Home Staging from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 81% of buyer’s agents say staging helps buyers visualize a home as their future residence.

At Olive + Opal Interiors, we’ve long believed in the emotional and strategic value of staging. Now, the latest data proves that our design-first approach directly influences buyer perception—and ultimately, how quickly and for how much a home sells.

What the 2025 NAR Home Staging Report Reveals

The annual NAR survey highlights powerful insights into buyer behavior and seller success. Some of the key findings include:

• 81% of buyer’s agents say staging helps buyers picture themselves living in the home.

• 23% of seller’s agents report that staged homes receive offers between 1% to 5% higher than similar unstaged homes.

• Living rooms, primary bedrooms, and kitchens are the most critical rooms to stage.

• While virtual staging is on the rise, it doesn’t replace the experience of walking through a professionally staged space.

These statistics underscore that staging isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a proven sales strategy that drives tangible ROI.

Our Approach: Strategic Design with Buyer Psychology in Mind

At Olive + Opal Interiors, we don’t just add furniture to empty rooms—we craft environments that feel aspirational and welcoming. Every staging project starts with the question: What would make this space irresistible to the right buyer?

We incorporate:

• Design principles that maximize natural light and flow

• Color palettes and furnishings that photograph beautifully for online listings

• Layouts that showcase both lifestyle and functionality

Whether we’re staging a modern loft in downtown St. Louis or a traditional family home in the suburbs, our team tailors each space to attract its ideal audience.

Introducing Our New Interactive Staging Gallery

To showcase the real-world impact of our work, we’re proud to unveil a new feature on our website:
Explore Our Interactive Project Gallery

This isn’t your standard before-and-after portfolio. It’s a dynamic, searchable collection that allows you to:

• Filter homes by location or design style

• Browse transformations in real-time

• Draw inspiration for your own upcoming listing

Whether you’re a realtor presenting staging options to a client or a homeowner preparing to sell, this tool lets you see what’s possible when staging is done right.

Staging Creates Emotional Connection—and Competitive Advantage

The 2025 NAR report makes it clear: buyers are drawn to homes that feel lived-in, loved, and move-in ready. Unstaged homes often leave buyers guessing about size, layout, and livability. Staged homes, on the other hand, create clarity and emotional connection.

Buyers aren’t just analyzing properties—they’re imagining a future. With strategic staging, that future feels within reach.

Why It Matters in Today’s Market

Even with shifting interest rates and evolving buyer expectations, one thing remains constant: beautifully presented homes sell faster and for more money. As online listings become the first showing for most buyers, the visual appeal of your property can make or break engagement.

Staging is no longer optional—it’s a competitive necessity.

Ready to Transform Your Listing?

Whether you’re preparing your own home for sale or helping a client do the same, professional staging is a proven way to stand out in the market. With years of experience, a curated design inventory, and the latest data to guide our process, Olive + Opal Interiors is ready to help your next listing make an unforgettable impression.