Does Home Staging Really Work for Pasadena Real Estate Sellers

Posted on February 26, 2010 by irina
Filed Under: Luxury Homes, Preparing Your Home for Sale, Sellers

Home staging is always on the mind of my Pasadena real estate home sellers. And, today, I had an opportunity to interview Michelle Minch. Michelle is a local Pasadena home stager who has been recently honored by her fellow home stagers across the country as the Home Stager of the Year for 2010!

The question posed to Michelle was: Does home staging really work? See what she has to say:

Do you have any questions about the real estate market locally or nationally, staging or the process of buying or selling a home? If so, give me a shout at 626-629-8439. I will be putting a bunch of videos up over the next few months addressing as many questions as I can.

Additional Reading: Preparing Your Pasadena Home for Sale

UPDATE: Good Morning America had Gary Keller, author of the real estate best seller “Shift”, on their program. The question posed was “If you had to sell your house today, how do you do it?”

Gary makes a couple of pretty poignant points and home staging is at the top of the list of things home sellers should do to help sell their home faster.

This is a “GOODBYE/BUY” market. If a seller wants to sell their home and say “good bye” to it, the buyer is going to have to perceive it as a “GOOD BUY”! PRICE gets you interest. STAGING it, gets you OFFERS! by Gary Keller

I couldn’t agree more. Take a look at the clip below for more home seller tips that will help you sell your home fast and for more dollars. However, sellers beware, I strongly disagree with tip #5. Home sellers should try to avoid being at showings and open houses. In my experience, that always backfires and too much information is shared which might make negotiating the best possible price more difficult.

For fun, let’s take a look at some of the more expensive Pasadena Area Luxury Homes for Sale:

If you are thinking of selling your home and would like a free consultation on what can be done to make your home more attractive to buyers, please give me a call at 626-629-8439.

PasadenaViews Real Estate Team Inc.

Pasadena Real Estate Agents

Pasadena, California

(626)629-VIEW (8439)

Other Local Properties

$4,990,000 :: 1480 Virginia Rd, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,341 sq ft
Lot Size: 59,573 sq ft
Added: 10/21/24, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR24214322
Community: 655 – San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/11/2025 by 6%
Status: Active

Stunning Architectural Gem in San Marino.

In a serene setting near Lacy Park , the private entry home offers a harmonious blend of modern elegance and timeless charm, further by significant recent upgrades, including freshly painted exterior and interior walls. Live near World-Class Culture: The Huntington Library’s art, and gardens are just moment away. Step inside to find brand new high-end Wi-Fi enabled appliances, double convection oven, Bosch induction cooktop, dishwasher known for its quiet operation, making it popular choice for open-concept living.

A spacious laundry room includes a brand new washer and dryer, and you can relax in brand new fully remodeled bathrooms featuring elegant marble countertops. Even the practical details shine , with a brand- new garage door enhancing curb appeal and a versatile bonus room attached to the garage perfect for a home gym or private office.

Enjoy the convenience of nearby Lacy Park while basking in the tranquility of your private retreat set on a generous 59,574 squares foot lot. This exceptional property offers the perfect combination of space, style and location, with ample room on the lot allowing for potential addition of swimming pool or an ADU, further enhancing its value and versatility.

Listed with Chu Feng Chu | 626-922-5056, Pinnacle Real Estate Group

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$1,399,000 :: 3690 Alder Lane, Pasadena CA, 91107

4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,890 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,432 sq ft
Added: 05/20/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: GD25112210
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/11/2025 by 7%
Status: Active

Welcome to 3690 Alder Lane, located on one of the most desirable streets in Upper Hastings Ranch, Pasadena. This stunning single-level mid-century modern home is perched atop the hill, offering unobstructed views of Downtown LA and city lights on one side, and majestic mountain views on the other. Originally built in 1955 and completely remodeled, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,890 square feet of bright, airy living space. Upon entering, you’re greeted by abundant natural light, an open floor plan, and oversized bifold doors that seamlessly blend the indoors with the beauty of the outdoors.The modernized kitchen features sleek countertops, stainless steel appliances, and flows effortlessly into the dining area””perfect for easy entertaining. Each bathroom has been remodeled to perfection, showcasing thoughtful design and high-end finishes. The newly landscaped front and back yards further elevate the home’s curb appeal, offering tranquil spaces to relax and enjoy the views. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a beautifully reimagined home in one of Pasadena’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

Listed with Ida Altounian | 818-913-8556, Engel & Volkers La Canada

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$3,499,000 :: 3505 E California Boulevard, Pasadena CA, 91107

6 beds, 5.75 baths
Home size: 5,459 sq ft
Lot Size: 62,060 sq ft
Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-23179
Community: 648 – Pasadena (SE)
Status: Active

Set on a remarkable 1.42-acre corner lot in the heart of East Pasadena’s coveted Chapman Woods, this expansive estate blends classic character with endless potential. On the market for the first time in over 50 years, the home offers over 5,400 sq ft of flexible living space, featuring 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms across a sprawling, multi-wing layout–ideal for customization, multi-generational living, or inspired renovation. A gated circular driveway leads to a traditional tiled entry, opening to a formal dining room with picture windows and built-in display cabinetry. French doors connect to the generous family room, featuring parquet floors, tray ceilings, and a wall of glass doors that reveal the stunning backyard, complete with a gated pool, spa, pergola-covered patio, mature fruit trees, winding garden paths, and a full-size sport court. The formal living room is equally refined with parquet flooring, a gas fireplace, and oversized windows overlooking the front lawn. The bright kitchen includes tile countertops, a 4-burner gas cooktop, double ovens, a dishwasher, a side-by-side laundry area, and a cozy breakfast nook. A sliding glass door offers easy access to the outdoor entertaining area. The west wing offers flexibility for a guest suite, office, or creative studio with its own entrance. Here, you’ll find a mudroom or workspace, a 3/4 bath, and an ensuite bedroom with access to the gated drive, carport, detached 2-car garage, and a bonus sauna room with a shower. On the east side, a split hallway leads to five additional bedrooms and four bathrooms. One corridor includes a spacious bedroom, a hall bath with tub/shower combo, and the impressive primary suite. The suite features corner windows, garden views, and a unique U-shaped walk-in closet with a connecting dual bathroom layout–two vanities, two toilets, a shared pass-through shower, soaking tub, and a built-in vanity space. The southeast hallway offers two more bedrooms with mirrored closets and a full bath, plus a sun-filled sixth bedroom with a cedar-lined walk-in closet and views of the front lawn. The backyard is a true highlight–an entertainer’s dream with pool, spa, grassy play areas, patio spaces, and a private sport court. Offering tranquility, space, and timeless appeal in one of Pasadena’s most desirable neighborhoods, this Chapman Woods estate invites you to reimagine its next chapter.

Listed with Jason Berns CalDRE: E | 626-826-4544, Keller Williams Realty

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$1,299,500 :: 57 S Grand Oaks Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91107

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,000 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,495 sq ft
Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: OC25156084
Community: 648 – Pasadena (SE)
Status: Active

Beautifully renovated private cottage located in the heart of Pasadena. Welcome to the charm of the mid 1940’s with all the modern features and upgrades of today. This property has been given the utmost care and attention to detail with each and every renovation. From the timeless kitchen and ability to host and entertain to the elegant bathrooms. Bring your most discerning buyer. If your looking for value in todays market this is it. Located near shopping and easy freeway access to the 210.

Listed with Jason Nagy CalDRE: S | 626-244-5000, Coldwell Banker Realty

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$820,000 :: 1960 Olive Way, Pasadena CA, 91104

2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 862 sq ft
Lot Size: 3,328 sq ft
Added: 05/04/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25098988
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/11/2025 by 6%
Status: Active

Price reduction. This charming 2 bedroom home, built in 1927, has so much character such as floor to ceiling fireplace, custom archways, open beamed ceiling and a built in niche in the dining area. Original hardwood floors in the living room, dining room and both bedrooms. The kitchen and indoor laundry room have new laminate flooring. In the backyard, you will find serenity with the 2 built in KOI ponds. The KOI are included. Come see this home today and add your personal touches! Located in the Northeast Pasadena area.

Listed with Irene Truong | 626-321-7468, Socal Platinum Properties

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$1,699,000 :: 2623 Fairgreen Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

3 beds, 2.75 baths
Home size: 2,308 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,901 sq ft
Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-23172
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

This beautifully upgraded home, featuring a gourmet kitchen, a resort-style backyard & designer touches throughout, is beckoning. Located on a beautifully landscaped lot with a lush green lawn & a paver walkway leading to a custom front door, this meticulously maintained home offers the perfect blend of classic charm & modern upgrades. Inside, sunlight streams through expansive front picture windows, illuminating hardwood floors & highlighting the home’s warm & welcoming character. The formal living room is a showstoppera’bathed in natural light, it features recessed lighting, crown molding & a newer gas fireplace with an electric start & an updated chimney. The picture windows showcase the beautifully landscaped front yard, creating a sense of spaciousness & serenity throughout the day. The formal dining room offers its own large bay window, chair rail molding & elegant ambiance, ideal for intimate dinners or festive gatherings. The chef’s kitchen is truly a standout with quartz countertops, tile flooring & a full suite of high-end appliances: a Miele gas cooktop with built-in deep fryer & range hood, Bosch built-in espresso maker, dishwasher, double-oven with warming drawer, under-counter microwave & a stainless steel dual sink beneath another sunny bay window. A large kitchen island provides counter seating next to a side-by-side laundry space. The kitchen opens to the spacious family room, with French doors leading to an entertainer’s dream backyard. The pergola-covered patio includes space for an outdoor TV, while a gated pool area, a water feature with a babbling brook & a grassy lawn with mature apple & guava trees provide peaceful & private enjoyment. The expansive primary suite features a walk-in closet with built-in shelving & a spa-like ensuite with a dual-sink vanity, jetted soaking tub & oversized shower with dual showerheadsa’including a rain shower. 2 additional bedrooms, both well-sized with ceiling fans & ample closets, share a hallway bathroom with a separate tiled tub & shower & a floating single-sink vanity. Additional amenities include a finished detached two-car garage with epoxy flooring & built-in storage, a custom paver driveway wired for EV charging, a whole-house natural gas Generac generator, surveillance cameras & a home security system. This home truly delivers space, luxury & function in one of the area’s most desirable neighborhoods. This home is ready for its new owners to experience modern living & effortless entertaini

Listed with Jason Berns | 626-826-4544, Keller Williams Realty

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$3,080,000 :: 134 E Las Flores Ave Ave, Arcadia CA, 91006

5 beds, 5.5 baths
Home size: 5,300 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,874 sq ft
Added: 07/07/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: OC25153476
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Step into timeless elegance with this stunning custom-built estate, nestled in a peaceful and highly desirable neighborhood of South Arcadia. Beyond the beautifully landscaped front yard and private electric gate, a grand 20-foot-high foyer welcomes you with a dazzling chandelier and an elegant staircase””setting the tone for the sophistication that flows throughout the home.

The thoughtfully designed floor plan offers both luxury and functionality. On the main level, you’ll find a formal living room, a cozy family room with a built-in wet bar perfect for entertaining, a refined formal dining room, and a private office ideal for working from home. The main kitchen is bright and well-organized, seamlessly connected to a functional wok kitchen””designed to meet the needs of both daily cooking and special occasions.

A private guest suite with its own full bath is conveniently located on the first floor, along with a stylish powder room and a spacious laundry room. Every detail has been designed with comfort and practicality in mind.

Upstairs, you’ll discover four generously sized ensuite bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite. Each room offers ample space, natural light, and privacy, making it ideal for multi-generational living. The home’s square, well-balanced layout enhances its sense of space and flow.

The backyard faces south, inviting warm sunlight throughout the day””ideal for outdoor entertaining or peaceful relaxation. The oversized three-car garage provides abundant storage and parking, while the secure front gate offers both privacy and peace of mind.

Located within the award-winning Arcadia Unified School District, and just minutes from top-tier dining, shopping, and amenities, this exceptional residence is ready for you to move in and enjoy the very best of Arcadia living.

Listed with Ting Wang CalDRE: E | 949-267-3149, Keller Williams Realty Irvine

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$1,900,000 :: 1720 Rubio Drive, San Marino CA, 91108

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,792 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,575 sq ft
Added: 07/10/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: OC25155348
Community: 655 – San Marino
Status: Active

CHARMING SINGLE-STORY SAN MARINO HOME. . . TRADITIONAL HOME WITH MODERN UPDATES: Large windows and sliding doors provide light throughout home, upgraded double pane windows keeps home cool, original tile bathroom and hardware, wood floor throughout living areas, pool for entertaining, professionally landscaped yard, mature hedges that provide both beauty and privacy . . . CONVENIENT: Sensible layout, no interior steps, central ac and heating, large front, back and side yard with space for patio furniture, gardening, entertainment . . . PHENOMENAL LOCATION: walking distance to San Marino High School, 5 minutes driving to Huntington Library and Gardens, Lacy Park, Valentine Elementary & Huntington Middle Schools, San Marino Public Library.

Listed with Steven Shiah | 626-205-8843, C.B. Investment & Funding Grp

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$1,298,000 :: 1023 Don Pablo Drive, Arcadia CA, 91006

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,459 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,311 sq ft
Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25153876
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

This Wonderful One-Level family home with Great curb appeal located on a Cul-de-sac is waiting for your Special Cosmetic Touches. Some of the large ticket items have already been upgraded a few years back including the Roof, Central Air and Heat, the flooring in the Family Room and Hallway, and the resurfacing of the Pool. In addition to the 3 Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms there is also a large Living Room/Dining Room combo, a Family Room and a large Game Room. The Living Room has a Gas Fireplace, Plantation Style Shutters and a Beautiful View of the Foothills. The Backyard is Large and boasts a Pool and Spa, Barbecue area, a Covered Patio, a nice lawn area and lots of mature trees. This home also belongs to the Award Winning Arcadia School District. Don’t miss out on this Great Opportunity.

Listed with Pamela Barbato | 626-862-4476, Century 21 Village Realty

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

$899,950 :: 1426 Sunset Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91103

2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 963 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,383 sq ft
Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25155945
Community: 645 – Pasadena (NW)
Status: Active

Step into this delightful Craftsman bungalow, where classic charm meets modern comfort. The spacious living room welcomes you with a Batchelder fireplace, setting a cozy ambiance. The open-concept kitchen features a stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator, along with convenient washer/dryer hookups and a dedicated dining area. The primary bedroom offers a peaceful retreat with ample closet space, while the bathroom exudes vintage charm with its classic clawfoot tub and dual-sink vanity. A second bedroom is located at the front of the house. Throughout the home, you’ll find engineered wood flooring and enjoy year-round comfort with central air and heat. The entire interior and exterior have been freshly painted, ensuring a move-in-ready experience. Outside, the property boasts a deck, perfect for outdoor dining and lounging. A grassy area offers ample space for outdoor activities, complemented by a convenient storage shed. Additionally, a long driveway provides generous off-street parking.

Listed with Espi Bagwell | 626-824-2267, Keller Williams Realty

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

(626) 629-8439

The question posed to Michelle was: Does home staging really work? See what she has to say:

(626)629-VIEW (8439)

Other Local Properties