How Agents Can Introduce Staging and the Cost to Sellers

Home staging isn’t just a design upgrade - it’s a proven marketing strategy that helps homes sell faster and for more money.

It’s also a growing trend! Every year, agents reach out curious about the process and how they can include staging as a service.

Unfortunately, many agents hesitate to pitch staging to their sellers because they’re unsure how to position the cost with sellers.

The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Below are several effective, professional ways to introduce staging services - along with clear options for who pays - so you can choose what best fits your business model and your client.

1. Cover the Cost of a Home Staging Consultation

Who pays: The agent

This is a low-risk, high-value way to introduce staging. You pay for a professional home stager to walk through the property and provide recommendations. You ultimately leave it up to the seller to move forward with staging services.

Why it works:

• Positions you as a proactive, full-service agent

• Gives sellers expert guidance without a big upfront ask

• Often leads to simple, impactful changes the seller can implement themselves

This option is ideal for listings where full staging may not be necessary but presentation still matters.

2. Cover Half the Cost (Or a Portion) of the Staging

Who pays: Agent and seller split the cost

In this approach, you present staging as a shared investment. You contribute a portion of the cost (half or a set number), and the seller covers the rest.

Why it works:

• Shows you’re confident enough in staging to invest alongside your seller

• Reduces the seller’s financial hesitation

• Encourages buy-in because both parties have skin in the game

This is a great middle-ground option for competitive markets.

3. Cover the Entire Cost of Staging

Who pays: The agent

Here, staging becomes part of your listing package and marketing strategy.

Why it works:

• Removes all friction for the seller

• Helps your listings stand out immediately

• Strengthens your value proposition when competing for listings

This approach works especially well for higher-priced homes or when you want to differentiate yourself as a premium agent.

4. Cover the Cost Up Front and Get Reimbursed at Closing

Who pays initially: Agent

Who ultimately pays:Seller (from proceeds at closing)

With this option, you pay for staging upfront and are reimbursed once the home sells.

Why it works:

• Eliminates upfront cost concerns for the seller

• Keeps cash flow easier for the homeowner

• Allows staging to happen quickly and professionally

This can be framed as a convenience and a strategic investment rather than an expense.

5. Offer a Tiered Commission Option

Who pays: Depends on the tier selected

This approach gives sellers a choice:

• Higher commission: Agent covers full or partial staging costs

• Lower commission: Seller pays for staging themselves

Why it works:

• Empowers sellers with options

• Clearly ties staging to value and service level

• Makes your pricing transparent and strategic rather than negotiable

This model works well for agents who want flexibility while protecting their time and resources.

Final Thoughts

• Introducing staging doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or complicated. When framed as a strategic marketing decision - with clear options for who pays - it becomes a collaborative conversation focused on one shared goal: getting the home sold for the best possible price.

• Staging isn’t just about furniture - it’s about positioning, perception and profit. And how you introduce it can elevate your brand just as much as it elevates your listings.