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

$1,688,000 :: 1868 Kaweah Drive, Pasadena CA, 91105

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,569 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,154 sq ft
Added: 03/03/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-21109
Community: Pasadena (SW)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/2/2025 by 5%
Status: Active

Nestled in the serene San Rafael Hills,1868 Kaweah Drive blends classic Pasadena charm with thoughtful modern upgrades. This beautifully maintained home boasts recent upgrades and enhancements designed for comfort, efficiency, and style. Step inside this light-filled 3 bedroom, 3 bath home and enjoy the breathtaking views. This inviting space features an open kitchen with quartz countertops, a new refrigerator, an in-line hot water heater that ensures energy efficiency and on-demand warmth. A newly installed 3-zone HVAC system provides optimal climate control year-round, making this home as comfortable as it is beautiful. The upstairs grand living room features a cozy fireplace and panoramic views–on clear days, you can even see the Griffith Observatory. The primary bedroom has stunning floor-to-ceiling windows that seamlessly blend the comfort of the indoors with the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Recent major system upgrades include new PEX plumbing (2023), a brand-new roof and gutters with downspouts (2024), new stucco and repainted exterior (2023), and a newly paved driveway and front steps (2024). The home also features recessed lighting, a fireplace in the dining room, automatic irrigation, a brand new dryer, 2-car garage with an automatic door opener, and 2 outdoor patios for entertaining. Located in the sought-after Pasadena San Rafael hills, this home is a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary updates.

Listed with Bonnie Matthews CalDRE: 02109341 | (323) 697-0687, COMPASS

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/!

$4,960,000 :: 627 Hampton Road, Arcadia CA, 91006

5 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 6,455 sq ft
Lot Size: 19,372 sq ft
Added: 09/14/24, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR24191421
Community: Arcadia
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/2/2025 by 7%
Status: Active

This beautiful Spanish Villa is built by Mur-Sol Builders and designed by Robert Tong. It located in a highly desirable area in the city of Arcadia. This impressive estate consists of 5 bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths. All of the bedrooms are suites, including an expansive downstairs master. The upstairs grand master suite boasts a fireplace, 2 huge walk-in closets, and elegant master bath with Jacuzzi tub, designer fixtures and steam shower. All bedroom suites have newly upgraded elegant and high quality carpet flooring, and mostly the entire interior of the home has newly painted. The incredible kitchen includes large center island, sub-zero refrigerator and freezer, 6 burner Wolf range and separate wok kitchen with Wolf Range. Custom home theater complete with theater seats; custom library with full wood panels walls and built in cabinets. The Wine Room comes with separate climate control system. Enjoy a relaxing in the majestic backyard with custom pool and spa and trellis covered patio. Gated driveway leads to its 3-Car garages. Other amenities include: Elevators, security system, central vac, tankless water heaters and survellance cameras. Must see!!!

Listed with Katherine Quach CalDRE: 01973653 | 626-656-2889, Treeline Realty & Investment

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/!

$3,945,000 :: 425 Anita Drive, Pasadena CA, 91105

4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 4,087 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,856 sq ft
Added: 05/01/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22037
Community: Pasadena (SW)
Status: Active

Discover the pinnacle of refined architectural design, where modern living seamlessly integrates with the natural world. This residence has been intentionally crafted to dissolve the line between indoor comfort and outdoor splendor, featuring soaring 15-foot ceilings and expansive folding glass walls that flood the space with light and open directly to the surrounding landscape. Towering walls and open-plan interiors radiate with daylight, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere.The sophisticated aesthetic is elevated by a thoughtful blend of materials–European tilework, marble finishes, and bespoke cabinetry–all carefully selected to enhance both form and function. Step outside to the striking infinity-edge pool, where clean, minimalist architecture frames unobstructed vistas of the San Rafael Hills.Every aspect of this home is a testament to refined taste, cutting-edge innovation, and luxury living. The master suite offers spa-inspired features including a steam shower adorned with Porcelanosa tiles and a generously sized air-jet soaking tub. The chef’s kitchen is outfitted with premium Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Miele appliances, complemented by a Graff faucet and Blanco sink set in elegant Carrera marble.Notable enhancements include Hunter Douglas window coverings, UV-protective glass, Lynx outdoor kitchen equipment, a robust solar power system with around 58 owned panels, and a heated infinity pool. Designer lighting, integrated stereo speakers, an intercom system, surveillance cameras, and wired data access in each bedroom contribute to a fully connected lifestyle. Additional smart features like dual Nest thermostats and a front entry secured by fingerprint and PIN access round out this exceptional home.

Listed with Georges Rouveyrol CalDRE: 01353980 | (626) 676-5368, Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

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/!

$2,599,000 :: 1011 Rodeo Road, Arcadia CA, 91006

5 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,641 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,459 sq ft
Added: 10/14/24, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: TR24207536
Community: Arcadia
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/2/2025 by 1%
Status: Active

Located in the desirable Santa Anita Oaks neighborhood and within the award-winning Arcadia School District, this remodeled 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom home is perfect for large families. It features two master suites—one on each level—ideal for multi-generational living or guests. The first floor boasts tile and hardwood flooring, an open-concept kitchen, and a large family room with a fireplace and bar, perfect for entertaining. This home has been freshly repainted inside and out, giving it a crisp curb appeal. The newly painted exterior enhances the home’s charm and durability. The family room has been renovated with a new fireplace, creating a warm and inviting space for gathering. The powder bathroom has also been upgraded with brand new appliances and a stylish new sink. Upstairs, the spacious master suite includes French doors that lead to a private patio overlooking the backyard, complete with a pool, jacuzzi, and built-in BBQ. Additional features include a 3-car attached garage. Move-in ready and thoughtfully refreshed, this home offers both charm and convenience!

Listed with Julie Dou CalDRE: 02031446 | 626-643-6258, Star Max 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/!

$4,500,000 :: 201 Orange Grove Avenue, South Pasadena CA, 91030

7 beds, 8 baths
Home size: 5,535 sq ft
Lot Size: 22,665 sq ft
Added: 05/02/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25097603
Community: So. Pasadena
Status: Active

Introducing the iconic 1887 Bissell House, a distinguished three-story Victorian estate gracing South Pasadena’s prestigious “Millionaires Row” and a designated City Cultural Landmark. This remarkable corner property, enveloped by impressive 40-foot hedges for enhanced privacy, seamlessly blends historical significance with modern potential.Key Features: Boasting 5,535 sq ft of living space on an expansive, level lot exceeding half an acre, this grand home offers 7 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms. Discover a formal living and dining room, butler’s pantry, charming original baths and sinks, a convenient 1940s elevator, a library, a basement, a garden, and a pool. Numerous original details throughout evoke its rich heritage. Holding a valuable bed and breakfast license, this estate presents a unique income opportunity for a buyer with a vision for restoration.This captivating Victorian became a cherished “center of hospitality” after its acquisition around 1903 by prominent Southern California architect William Southerland McCay and his philanthropic wife, Anna Bissell McCay, daughter of the Bissell Carpet Sweeper inventor. Notably, the home even welcomed esteemed guests such as Albert Einstein.Nestled in South Pasadena, an early Los Angeles suburb incorporated in 1888, residents enjoy a coveted lifestyle characterized by a strong community and picturesque streets lined with iconic Craftsman architecture. Critically, South Pasadena is home to the consistently top-performing South Pasadena Unified School District. The charming town features trendy cafes, unique boutiques along Mission Street, and a vibrant arts scene. With convenient access to Downtown LA, it offers an ideal balance of small-town ambiance and urban amenities, making it particularly appealing to families prioritizing education. Owning the Bissell House transcends mere homeownership; it’s embracing a legacy within South Pasadena’s rich tapestry, especially attractive to those who value academic excellence.While radiating undeniable grandeur, the Bissell House offers an exciting canvas for revitalization, awaiting a discerning owner to bring it to its full potential and infuse their personal style. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to own a significant piece of history and potentially generate income within these remarkable walls, all while embarking on a journey to restore its timeless elegance in a highly sought-after school district.

Listed with Justin McCardle CalDRE: 01895720 | 310-606-0192, Growth Investment Group Pasade

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/!

$3,490,000 :: 500 Lockehaven Street, Pasadena CA, 91105

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,464 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,572 sq ft
Added: 03/21/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25060245
Community: Pasadena (SW)
Status: Active

Charming and welcoming describe this stunning two story home located in the highly sought after Southwest Pasadena area. It reflects the quintessential style of noted architect Joseph J. Blick. The spacious 3,464 square foot 4 bedroom home epitomizes timely elegance combined with contemporary updates. The expansive front porch is accented with Blick’s signature brick columns and is the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon. The impressive light-filled living room and dining room, adjoined by a set of original sliding doors, have 9+ foot high ceilings, hardwood floors with an inlaid mahogany design, wide moldings, and are encircled by windows on three sides providing an abundance of natural light. The updated kitchen and butler’s pantry with stainless appliances and quartz counters are a gourmet chef’s delight and destined to become a gathering spot around the center island. The luxurious spacious primary suite located on the first floor has two walk-in closets and a gorgeous updated primary bathroom with dual sinks, relaxing soaking tub, and a large walk-in shower with a bench. There is another generous sized bedroom and a three-quarter bathroom on the first floor and two spacious bedrooms with walk-in closets and a full bathroom upstairs. An office and a comfortable family room complete the first floor and overlook the private rear yard. The sparkling pool and spa accented with brick patios and lush flowering gardens is a serene retreat. Meticulously maintained, this delightful home combines classic architectural charm with modern sophistication.

Listed with Janie Steckenrider CalDRE: 01226070 | 626-445-5500, 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/!

$1,399,000 :: 57 S Grand Oaks Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91107

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,000 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,495 sq ft
Added: 05/02/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 25533301
Community: Pasadena (SE)
Status: Active

Tucked away on a wide, tree-lined street in one of Pasadena’s most peaceful residential pockets, this beautifully remodeled single-story home blends modern comfort with timeless charm. Mature trees in both the front and back yards create a calm, leafy outlook from many windows, offering a quiet sense of retreat. Inside, an open-concept layout welcomes you into a spacious kitchen, dining, and living area anchored by a sleek fireplace. The kitchen is a standout with its dramatic waterfall island featuring a breakfast bar with a pop-up charging station, a hooded range, ample cabinetry, and generous counter space, ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The expansive living room, filled with natural light, easily accommodates a large sectional and media setup, with room to carve out a cozy office nook or creative corner. It opens to a private backyard enclosed by a tall privacy fence, perfect for relaxing, dining al fresco, or hosting guests. The home includes two primary suites: one with a walk-in closet, dual sink vanity, and dual shower; the second with two closets, views of the backyard, and a large bathroom with a step-in shower. A third bedroom and additional bathroom add flexibility for guests, family, or office use. Thoughtfully reimagined with modern finishes, this inviting home sits on a generous lot with ample room for extra parking and includes a convenient storage shed offering comfort, flexibility, and outdoor potential. With its size and layout, the property also presents an excellent opportunity for a future ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), ideal for multigenerational living or additional income. This is a rare chance to own a move-in-ready gem in a desirable Pasadena location near Eaton Canyon, parks, shops, dining, and the Metro Gold Line.

Listed with Renee Pietrangelo CalDRE: 01900447 | 323-203-4534, eXp Realty of Greater Los Angeles

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/!

$899,990 :: 1830 Belmont Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91103

2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 900 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,831 sq ft
Added: 11/29/24, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR24241692
Community: Pasadena (NW)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/2/2025 by 3%
Status: Active

Welcome to this beautifully updated home, where every detail has been meticulously crafted for comfort and style. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, featuring a top-of-the-line 36″ stove, a drawer microwave, custom stone countertops, a stunning backsplash extending to the ceiling, and an impressive infinity waterfall—a perfect space for both cooking and entertaining.Throughout the home, enjoy the elegance of luxury plank flooring, giving each room a modern, cohesive feel. The smooth finish drywall, along with new doors and windows, enhances the home’s clean, contemporary aesthetic.For year-round comfort, this home boasts a new tankless water heater and an upgraded HVAC system, ensuring efficiency and convenience.The expansive 300 sqft game room provides ample space for family fun, recreation, or even a home theater setup. The possibilities are endless!Sitting on a huge lot, this property offers great potential for an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) or plenty of room for outdoor activities, gardening, and more.Nestled in an amazing, quaint neighborhood, you’ll enjoy the tranquility and charm of this lovely community, while still being close to all the amenities you need.This home is a true gem—come see it today and envision your future in this beautiful space!

Listed with Edward Guillen CalDRE: 01862100 | 661-886-2938, Pantheon Realty Corporation

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/!

$2,896,000 :: 2159 Lorain Road, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 2,448 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,311 sq ft
Added: 05/02/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PW25095980
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Introducing a newly custom-built home completed in 2020, located in the highly sought-after city of San Marino, renowned for its award-winning San Marino School District. This single-story South-facing residence was substantially rebuilt in 2020. The present owners have added an artistic touch and modern look to the residence. While the original front and side wood frames were retained to comply with city architectural guidelines, virtually everything else is brand new, including the floor plan, walls, roof, flooring, electrical and plumbing systems, windows, doors, fixtures, and all interior finishes. In addition to the kitchen, this home also features a Woke or Butler’s Kitchen. The result is a modern high-end home offering the comfort and efficiency of a newly constructed home, while honoring the neighborhood’s architectural character.

Listed with Alejandro Szita CalDRE: 01730592 | 3102949417, Black Sheep 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/!

$1,988,000 :: 451 W FOOTHILL Boulevard, Arcadia CA, 91006

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,650 sq ft
Lot Size: 18,531 sq ft
Added: 05/02/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25093874
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

Elegant Mid-Century Gem in Prestigious Santa Anita Oaks – North Arcadia. Nestled in the sought-after Santa Anita Oaks neighborhood of North Arcadia, this beautifully maintained south-facing Mid-Century residence offers privacy, charm, and impressive curb appeal on a gated flat lot over 18,000 sqft, with an expansive 125 feet of frontage and a stately circular driveway. Spanning nearly 2,700 sqft of single-level living, the home boasts 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, including a serene primary suite featuring vaulted ceilings, a cozy fireplace retreat, and a generous walk-in closet. The layout is open and functional, with a formal living room, a grand high-ceiling family room, and an elegant dining area—each anchored by its own fireplace, perfect for entertaining and everyday comfort. The well-appointed kitchen includes a large breakfast nook and direct access to the oversized two-car attached garage—ideal for convenient daily living. Outside, the lush, park-like backyard offers privacy and room to grow, with multiple fruit trees and ample space for an ADU, pool, or future expansion. Additional parking is available on both the front circular driveway and a second driveway at the rear. Located minutes from award-winning Arcadia schools, Westfield Santa Anita Mall, the Arboretum, local shops, dining, and public transit, this home is a rare opportunity to own in one of Arcadia’s most prestigious and established communities. Located in the Award-Winning Arcadia Unified School District.

Listed with Imy Dulake CalDRE: 00987845 | 626-664-1280, 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/!

(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