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

$2,980,000 :: 1732 Vista Del Valle Drive, Arcadia CA, 91006

4 beds, 4.5 baths
Home size: 4,445 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,359 sq ft
Added: 07/27/25, Last Updated: 11/17/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: OC25166262
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Nestled in the prestigious Highland Oaks neighborhood, this exceptional residence offers an elegant blend of timeless design, luxurious finishes, and an unbeatable location near award-winning Arcadia schools. Situated on an expansive 10,358 sq ft lot with captivating mountain views, the home showcases exquisite craftsmanship and thoughtful attention to detail throughout.

A grand double-door entry welcomes you into soaring two-story ceilings and gleaming marble floors, setting the tone for the refined living spaces beyond. The flowing floor plan spans 4,437 sq ft and includes a gracious formal living room with fireplace, a stately library/office, a formal dining room ideal for entertaining, and a spacious family room overlooking the serene backyard.

The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream, complete with top-tier appliances, custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and a separate wok kitchen. Travertine and wood flooring add warmth and sophistication throughout the home.

Four generously sized en suite bedrooms provide comfort and privacy, each designed with abundant natural light and refined finishes. Additional features include a digital intercom system and custom built-ins.

The outdoor area is equally impressive, offering a concrete patio perfect for al fresco dining and gatherings. This remarkable property is a rare opportunity to own a beautifully maintained home in one of Arcadia’s most sought-after communities.

Listed with Gang Ding | 626-531-4092, Real Broker

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/!

$1,590,000 :: 977 N Hill Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 1.75 baths
Home size: 1,476 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,335 sq ft
Added: 11/16/25, Last Updated: 11/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR25261540
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Welcome to awesome move-in ready updated family home in one of Pasadena’s most sought-after neighborhoods! With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this home offers both flexibility and style. As you enter, you’ll find a welcoming newly painted living room with a cozy decorative fireplace, plentiful windows that fill the home with natural light making it perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. Just beyond the formal dining room that flows seamlessly from the living area is the bright kitchen that has been thoughtfully renovated with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry. Many upgrades include a brand-new roof shingles, a newly designed driveway and pathways, newly installed sprinkler system, LED fixtures, HVAC system with warranty, tankless water heater, newly electrical wiring and plumbing systems. An abundance of windows and French doors lead to the extensive front and back yards perfect for entertaining. The fully fenced private backyard is large enough to accommodate a new pool or possibly an ADU. The property also includes a spacious two-car garage that adds extra storage and convenience. Situated in highly desirable neighborhood, this charming home is not only move-in ready but also full of possibilities. Don’t miss the opportunity to make it your own.

Listed with Armen Khnkoyan CalDRE: N | 909-600-0009, LA Home 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/!

$1,898,000 :: 1425 Hastings Ranch Drive, Pasadena CA, 91107

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,236 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,414 sq ft
Added: 11/16/25, Last Updated: 11/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25261444
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Nestled in the desirable Upper Hastings Ranch neighborhood of Pasadena , this charming home is designed with families in mind. The surrounding neighborhood known for its mountain views, tree-lined streets, and enduring sense of community, offers a rare blend of quiet charm and urban

convenience .With approximately 2,236 sq ft of living space on a 100 % usable 9,410 sq ft lot size , the property includes 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms include 2 en-suite , offering both functionality and comfort. The spacious living room, filled with natural light enhanced by a fireplace and large windows, serves as the heart of the home where family members can gather and enjoy quality time. The formal dining area flows seamlessly into the update kitchen, which is equipped with modern appliances, ample cabinetry, wine cooler, and expansive countertops- makes daily life convenient and enjoyable. All Bedrooms are private ,quiet and tranquil, creating ideal spaces for rest, study, or remote work. The Master suite was add on in 2016 is a true retreat features high vaulted ceilings, a spa-inspired European style bathroom featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub with a separate shower. The expansive walk-in closet evokes the luxury of a resort, while the suite’s layout ensures excellent privacy. You’ll also appreciate the modern updates, like recessed lighting ,central A/C and heating, hardwood floor throughout ,2 -car detached garage with built-in cabinets and storage. Good size Family room could be use as part of office area design for work from home. Outdoors, the backyard offers a safe, open space perfect for children’s play, gardening, or hosting weekend gatherings while the landscaped front yard adds a welcoming touch. Both Front &Back yard also has a City &Mountain View .The neighborhood is known for its excellent schools, safety, and community atmosphere, as well as proximity to parks, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s ,shops, restaurants ,bank & gyms. With its family-oriented design and prime location, this home provides a warm and practical lifestyle that makes it an ideal long-term residence.

Listed with Ricky Seow | 626-674-3338, 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/!

$8,950,000 :: 1146 Shenandoah Road, San Marino CA, 91108

6 beds, 7 baths
Home size: 7,295 sq ft
Lot Size: 32,806 sq ft
Added: 11/15/25, Last Updated: 11/15/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-24945
Community: 655 – San Marino
Status: Active

//Walter H Seavey House by David A Ogilvie AIA, 1927//This fully renovated English Revival home was originally built for the family of investment banker Walter H Seavey & their three live-in employees. Designed by David A Ogilvie, who spent 5 years as an apprentice for Reginald Johnson before establishing his own office, & built by legendary Master Builder Peter Hall, the property was featured in the Jan 1928th ed. of Architectural Digest. Located in the prestigious Estates area in the hills of San Marino, the property was constructed in an era known for unmatched craftsmanship & ‘old word’ sourced materials, much of which are still exhibited today. Original: leaded glass windows w/pull-down screens, butler’s pantry & 692sf lower-level prohibition bar were maintained. Complementing these elements, the house was renovated to allow for luxurious, modern living & flow. In addition to systems, BD’s & BA’s, the star of this endeavor is the impressive 25’x30′ Great Room with 20′ ceilings & destressed, antique French oak flooring. Now the heart of the house, the incorporated kitchen w/large island & Subzero & Wolf appliances flows seamlessly into informal dining, work desk & seating/TV area w/surround sound.//With the vision of a master architect, Ogilvie sited the living space to allow for public & private outdoor areas. From front circular driveway, the public front courtyard welcomes w/brick walkway leading to front door. Adjacent, a more casual seating area is harmonized w/the sound of running water from contemporary raised rectangular Koi Pond. For more private affairs, behind postern door, is the family courtyard & garden. Newly added outdoor kitchen w/BBQ, sink, & smoker services both bar & table seating in a European setting, surrounded by irrigated planters & overhead bistro lights. Perhaps the most striking element can be found in the wooded rear yard. The sound of flowing water emanates from upper waterfall that bends & flows 250′ through trees & landscaping. Trails w/foot bridges intersect stream & terminate at pond at NE side of property. Whether used for daily exercise, contemplation or entertaining, it is truly a rare feature to still exist in a private setting. //FEATURES:4BR/3BA upper, 1BR Ste entry, 1BR Ste w/AC above garage, main & prep kitchens, butler’s pantry, CAT 5, EV charging, workshop, underground downspouts. //Renovation: 400 amp electrical, copper plumbing w/instant H2O heaters, 3 HE HVAC, Lynx BBQ, smoker, fridge, steam shower.

Listed with Brent Chang | 626-487-8100, 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/!

$2,200,000 :: 1730 Via Del Rey, South Pasadena CA, 91030

5 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,191 sq ft
Lot Size: 16,218 sq ft
Added: 11/14/25, Last Updated: 11/15/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PW25253520
Community: 658 – So. Pasadena
Status: Active

Stunning 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom pool home available in the desirable Altos De Monterey neighborhood of South Pasadena, just 5 minutes walking distance from Monterey Hills Elementary School! This beautiful two-story home features an elegant living room with a cozy fireplace and an adjacent dining room, each with French doors to the backyard. The bright, airy kitchen features high-end, built-in appliances, a large island for prep work and serving, tons of cabinet space and a separate breakfast area. One downstairs bedroom, conveniently located near a full hall bath, is ideal for use as a home office, guest room, or in-laws quarters. Upstairs, there is a huge family room with vaulted ceilings and a fireplace, an impressive primary suite with balcony and walk-in closet with custom organizers. Three additional bedrooms upstairs, one with its own private bathroom. There is also a shared balcony overlooking the backyard. Outside is a private hillside retreat, featuring a generous brick patio, pool, tiered garden terraces, lush landscaping, and pathways that create a serene and private escape. NO REAR NEIGHBORS!!! Located near award-winning South Pasadena schools, local restaurants, and shops, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and community. Come experience the best of South Pasadena living! To help visualize this home’s floor plan and to highlight its potential, virtual furnishings may have been added to photos found in this listing.

Listed with Caroline Gim | 562-861-4311, Expert Real Estate & 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/!

$1,550,000 :: 1317 South Santa Anita Avenue Ave, Arcadia CA, 91006

4 beds, 1.75 baths
Home size: 1,917 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,068 sq ft
Added: 10/23/25, Last Updated: 11/15/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25247362
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Priced to sell! Large .3 acre corner lot! This beautiful Arcadia home shows pride of ownership throughout. Upgraded in recent years with new dual-pane vinyl windows, fresh interior and exterior paint, new kitchen countertop and backsplash, a newer HVAC and water heater. The expansive lot features a lush garden with mature fruit trees including persimmons, guava, jujube, orange, and honey tangerine, along with lavender and other fragrant blooms. A large pine tree anchors the yard, offering charm and seasonal beauty. Prime location within walking distance to highly rated Arcadia schools, library, golf course, and park. Spacious grounds provide ample opportunity for expansion or future development in a highly sought-after neighborhood. A rare opportunity to own a lovingly cared-for property in the heart of Arcadia.

Listed with Alice Tan | 626-448-4853, 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/!

$3,660,000 :: 1665 Lorain Road, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 4.5 baths
Home size: 3,042 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,952 sq ft
Added: 06/11/25, Last Updated: 11/14/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25130624
Community: 655 – San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 11/14/2025 by 6%
Status: Active

This exquisitely renovated two-story home, fully remodeled and expanded in 2014, boasts luxurious upgrades in the heart of San Marino’s serene, affluent neighborhoods. Featuring a spacious floor plan with a grand family room, gourmet kitchen with breakfast nook, 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, a sophisticated den, and a versatile loft, this residence is designed for elegance and comfort. The chef’s kitchen showcases custom cabinetry, granite countertops, a large center island, and top-of-the-line Viking appliances, including a 48″ built-in refrigerator, 6-burner stovetop, under-mount oven, and dishwasher. Two master suites offer deluxe bathrooms with double-sink vanities, Jacuzzi tubs, and separate showers. Additional highlights include central A/C, fire/security alarms, dual-pane Pella windows, and a fully refinished 2-car garage with epoxy-coated flooring. Located within the prestigious San Marino Unified School District, a National Blue Ribbon award-winner, this home is steps from top-tier elementary and middle schools.

Listed with HUI WANG | 626-695-6926, IRN 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/!

$3,180,000 :: 68 E Longden Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

5 beds, 4.5 baths
Home size: 4,663 sq ft
Lot Size: 16,488 sq ft
Added: 08/12/25, Last Updated: 11/14/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25171974
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Welcome to this beautifully maintained home in the heart of Arcadia! Featuring approx. 4,663 sqft of living space on a generous lot, this residence offers 5 spacious bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, including a bright and open living room addition that enhances the flow and functionality of the home. Designed with comfort and entertainment in mind, the floor plan provides abundant natural light, high ceilings, and versatile spaces for modern family living.

Enjoy a large gourmet kitchen, expansive family room, and private backyard perfect for gatherings. Located in the highly sought-after Arcadia Unified School District, this home is close to schools, shopping, dining, and transportation. A rare opportunity to own a spacious residence in one of Arcadia’s most desirable neighborhoods!

Listed with GUIFENG PENG CalDRE: E | 618-808-6666, RE/MAX PREMIER/ARCADIA

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/!

$1,100,000 :: 1140 Daveric Dr, Pasadena CA, 91107

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,264 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,340 sq ft
Added: 11/14/25, Last Updated: 11/14/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25260849
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Charming Mid-Century Opportunity in Upper Hastings Ranch!

Welcome to this single-level ranch-style home, situated in the highly sought-after neighborhood. Filled with natural light, the open concept living and dining areas offer great flow and endless possibilities for modern updates. The home features 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, 200sf enclosed patio (not included in the sf), and a comfortable layout that is ready for your personal touch. There is a 2 car detached garage w/ laundry hookups and additional parking spaces on the driveway.

Step outside to a private backyard with mature citrus trees and serene mountain views, ideal for morning coffee, weekend gatherings, or a relaxing evening under the stars.

Enjoy the neighborhood’s treelined streets, nearby parks, and access to hiking trails.

Bring your vision and creativity to make this charming home truly your own!

Listed with Sherry Carr | 626-272-0787, 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/!

$2,000,000 :: 1768 Casa Grande Street, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 2.5 baths
Home size: 2,436 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,405 sq ft
Added: 11/10/25, Last Updated: 11/14/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-24938
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Located on a wide, quiet street in the North Pasadena Heights Landmark District, 1768 Casa Grande Street offers a timeless single-level residence surrounded by lush, award-winning landscaping, mature plantings, and winding garden pathways. The 11,404 sq ft lot provides the feeling of a private retreat while remaining close to schools, markets, banks, and the Metro station.The main home features 1,863 sq ft of character-rich living space with genuine lath and plaster construction, refinished red oak hardwood floors, and a classic Batchelder tile fireplace with a gas lighter. A coved high-ceiling living room and a large dining room that easily accommodates a table for ten create welcoming spaces for gatherings.Three skylights, along with freshly painted interiors and exteriors, bring warmth and natural light throughout.The circular floor plan includes two bedrooms, 13/4 baths, and two built-in offices, offering flexibility for remote work, creative pursuits, or a potential third bedroom. The kitchen features granite counters, a center island cooktop, generous cabinetry, and includes the refrigerator. Upgrades to the electrical system, HVAC, and central air conditioning ensure modern comfort.Additional conveniences include a widened basement with washer and dryer, a lattice-covered patio with a barbecue and heater included, and four fruit trees–loquat, orange, sapote, and lemon–enhancing the garden’s appeal.The property also includes a garden house, a single-car detached garage with a remote-controlled door, and a remote-controlled rolling gate.A standout bonus is the additional dwelling studio unit, offering 573 sq ft with its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and parking. The space has strong rental potential and can serve as guest accommodations, a private workspace, or an income-producing opportunity.A 50-year roof (installed in 2011), three skylights, and thoughtful updates throughout further enhance the home’s long-term value.With flexible living spaces, historic character, modern upgrades, and beautifully maintained gardens, this property is a rare offering in one of Pasadena’s most admired neighborhoods.

Listed with Teresa Piasky | 626-353-6654, 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