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

$2,498,000 :: 3350 Calvert Road, Pasadena CA, 91107

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,080 sq ft
Lot Size: 21,794 sq ft
Added: 04/29/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-21970
Community: Pasadena (SE)
Status: Active

Privacy and tranquility define this single-level post-and-beam residence designed by Buff and Hensman. Once owned by the Van Halen brothers, the home beautifully captures modernist ideals with its graceful simplicity and seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Expansive walls of glass, allowing for natural light in every room, frame stunning views of the treetops and city skyline. The thoughtfully designed floor plan places all bedrooms together in one wing, while the opposite wing features a kitchen and a separate family room with its own closet and full bathroom. A custom stained-glass window completed in 1990 by renowned artist, Judy Jansen, highlights the entry and dining areas. The home has undergone extensive upgrades, including an 800-square-foot addition, a heated pool and spa, updated landscaping, a newer roof, and air conditioning — all while preserving the original Buff and Hensman design and enhancing it with a more contemporary interior style. First time on market in over 30 years! A rare opportunity to customize this historic home offering endless possibilities.ADDITIONAL FEATURES:Private cul-de-sac road with only 5 houses,Views of Eaton Canyon Golf Course and mountains, Newer paved pool deck, Wood burning fireplaceExtra bonus/storage room, Viking stove/oven in kitchenIndividual laundry room, Stained glass build in 1990 upon sellers special order by renowned artist, Judy Jansen, collaborating with Buff and Hensman in many of the houses they designed, Heated pool and spa (recently re-plastered), Automatic driveway gate, 2 air and heat units-recently replaced, Newer tempered glass in large windows and sliding doors, Security shutters and plantation shutters;

Listed with Nina Kirkendall CalDRE: 01245547 | (626) 676-6260, 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/!

$1,699,000 :: 1721 S 3rd Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,195 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,377 sq ft
Added: 04/09/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: BB25075716
Community: Arcadia
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/2/2025 by 3%
Status: Active

Welcome to this exquisite Mid-Century home located in the prestigious Arcadia School District, celebrated for its exceptional educational programs. This residence features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, along with inviting family and recreation rooms that embrace an open floor plan. Recent upgrades, including copper plumbing, vaulted ceilings, and modern amenities, enhance the home’s appeal, complemented by brand new appliances and stylish light fixtures. The elegant living room flows into a generous covered outdoor retreat, perfect for entertaining, while the sparkling pool offers a serene space for relaxation. The primary suite provides a tranquil retreat, complete with its own bathroom, offering both privacy and comfort. Additional highlights include a new roof installed in 2019 with solar tubes for enhanced natural light, a modern HVAC system replaced in 2021, energy-efficient double-glass Anlin windows and doors, and fully remodeled bathrooms completed in 2022. The versatile carport provides ample covered space, ideal for gatherings. Ideally situated near shopping centers, markets, schools, and parks, this home supports a vibrant family lifestyle. Seize this remarkable opportunity to own a beautifully updated home in a prime location.

Listed with Alin Glogovicean CalDRE: 01327641 | 877-973-3346, Redfin 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/!

$2,350,000 :: 527 Bradford Street, Pasadena CA, 91105

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,280 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,587 sq ft
Added: 05/02/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PF25086134
Community: Pasadena (SW)
Status: Active

Serene Midcentury Retreat in South Arroyo, PasadenaNestled on one of the most coveted streets in the desirable South Arroyo neighborhood, this tranquil 1949 midcentury home blends timeless design with modern comfort. Just a half-block from historic South Orange Grove Boulevard and moments from the restaurants and boutiques of Old Town Pasadena, this location offers unmatched convenience and charm.Inside, vaulted ceilings and hardwood floors set the tone for bright, spacious living. The open-concept family room flows seamlessly into a step-down, covered outdoor living space—perfect for entertaining or quiet mornings with coffee. Surrounded by lush gardens, the backyard creates a private, peaceful escape from city life.The home features two expansive primary suites, each with its own en-suite bath, plus a third bedroom and full hall bath. A thoughtful floor plan enhances the flow for both daily living and entertaining, while large windows invite the outdoors in, filling each space with natural light.Clean lines and a warm, contemporary ambiance make this home an everyday retreat.

Listed with Khanh Oberley CalDRE: 02111602 | 626-204-5252, Douglas Elliman of CA, 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/!

$1,699,000 :: 608 E Sandra Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

5 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,145 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,612 sq ft
Added: 05/01/25, Last Updated: 05/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PW25094728
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

Here’s your chance to own a one-of-a-kind property in the heart of Arcadia with incredible space, flexibility, and access to top-rated Arcadia schools! Sitting on a large lot, this dynamic home offers two connected living spaces under one roof—perfect for multigenerational living, rental income, or hosting extended guests.As you step through the front door, you’re welcomed into a bright and inviting living room with plenty of natural light and space to gather. The layout flows seamlessly into a dedicated dining area and a spacious, open kitchen—featuring generous counter space, abundant cabinetry, and room for both cooking and conversation. The open-concept design creates a warm, connected environment ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The main home includes 3 well-sized bedrooms and 2 updated bathrooms, all thoughtfully positioned for comfort and privacy. At the rear of the home, an attached 2-bedroom, 1-bath addition offers its own full kitchen and separate entrance, making it perfect for extended family, adult children, or potential rental income.Outside, the backyard is a true retreat—complete with a sparkling gated pool for safety and peace of mind, plus plenty of patio space for lounging, dining, and soaking in the California sun. Located near parks, shopping, and award-winning Arcadia schools, this is the kind of home that checks every box for space, function, and lifestyle.

Listed with Jay Tan CalDRE: 02064998 | 310-375-3511, 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/!

$2,800,000 :: 206 N Grand Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91103

5 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,009 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,193 sq ft
Added: 05/01/25, Last Updated: 05/01/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 25533263
Community: Pasadena (NW)
Status: Active

Queen Anne Victorian in Pasadena’s Arroyo Terrace Historic District. This landmark 5BD/3BA Queen Anne Victorian (c. 1895 to 1899), known as The Hutchins House, offers timeless craftsmanship and modern updates in one of Pasadena’s most architecturally significant neighborhoods. Features include a grand foyer with original staircase, formal living and dining rooms with bay windows, an updated chef’s kitchen with Viking appliances, and a bright breakfast room overlooking landscaped gardens. Upstairs offers 4 bedrooms, updated baths, and a full finished attic (1,131 sq ft not included in main sqft). Detached carriage house includes a finished upper-level studio (351 sq ft) plus a separate office/workroom (131 sq ft). Located near the Rose Bowl, Old Town, and The Gamble House. Designated a Pasadena City Landmark and contributing home in the Arroyo Terrace National Historic District.

Listed with Nina Kurtz CalDRE: 01794599 | 310-428-6066, 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/!

$1,658,000 :: 1956 E Woodlyn Road, Pasadena CA, 91104

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,707 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,506 sq ft
Added: 05/01/25, Last Updated: 05/01/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV25091766
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Known as the Moxley Abernethy House, this circa 1928 Spanish Revival style home is an exemplary representation of the style. Inspired by the architecture of Spain, rich stylistic elements include elaborate tile accents, wrought iron grillwork and hardware, half rounded arches, dramatic beamed living room ceiling, casement windows, numerous original sconces, terracotta roof tiles. The covered veranda extends the living space, and was beautifully designed with intricately patterned tilework and built-in seating, a lovely gathering spot for family celebrations or larger-scale entertaining. The exquisitely remodeled kitchen offers granite counters, tumbled marble backsplash, and stainless steel appliances including 5-burner gas range, built-in microwave, refrigerator and dishwasher. Enchanting rear gardens feature ornate fountain and fruit trees. Located in the desirable Brigden Ranch community, this one-of-a-kind residence is not to be missed. Don’t miss the California Basement, upgrades include Roof in 2023, Kitchen in 2016200 Amp Electrical panel, and Central HVAC system

Listed with Eli Strickland CalDRE: 01991218 | 909-910-6654, RE/MAX INNOVATIONS

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/!

$1,118,888 :: 1901 S 8th Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 830 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,918 sq ft
Added: 05/01/25, Last Updated: 05/01/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV25091865
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

Welcome to this charming single-story home nestled in a desirable Arcadia neighborhood! With great curb appeal and a welcoming front porch, this home invites you in with warmth and character. Inside, you’ll find an open floor plan featuring a cozy living room with a fireplace and an adjoining dining area perfect for everyday living. The remodeled kitchen offers modern style and function, with direct access to a spacious backyard complete with a patio and grassy area ideal for relaxing or outdoor gatherings. This home offers 2 comfortable bedrooms and 1 full bathroom, along with refinished hardwood floors that add timeless beauty throughout. Enjoy year-round comfort with newly installed central AC and heat. A 1-car attached garage provides convenience and storage. Located near highly desirable Arcadia schools, parks, and shopping, this home blends comfort, style, and location. Don’t miss the chance to make it yours!

Listed with Marty Rodriguez CalDRE: 00632854 | 626-914-6637, CENTURY 21 MASTERS

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/!

$985,000 :: 1318 N Marengo Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91103

3 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 1,295 sq ft
Lot Size: 3,320 sq ft
Added: 05/01/25, Last Updated: 05/01/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22019
Community: Pasadena (NW)
Tract: Other
Status: Active

‘Stunning 1912 Craftsman home in Historic Garfield Heights – nestled on a picturesque, tree-lined street in the heart of Pasadena’s cherished Garfield Heights Historic District. This home blends timeless Pasadena character with updated comforts for today’s lifestyle.Step through the open floor plan featuring reclaimed wood-style laminate flooring, LED recessed lighting, and a beautifully renovated fireplace with a marble hearth, that is also wood burning and is perfect for cozy evenings at home. Four restored original Tiffany ceiling lamps in the living room add a rare and authentic touch of period elegance.The kitchen has been completely reimagined with white shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, a mosaic tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a peninsula with industrial pendant lighting–ideal for casual dining and entertaining.The primary bedroom offers a walk-in closet and a 2nd room, perfect for a home office, nursery, or reading nook. The third bedroom also features a generous walk-in closet with custom shelving. The bathroom includes a double vanity, Carrara white porcelain tile flooring, and a water-efficient toilet.Upstairs, the fully finished attic offers excellent flexibility as a creative space, home gym, or studio, complete with its own mini split A/C unit. There is also a dedicated laundry area, upgraded copper plumbing (rear of house), updated electrical, a 2-year-old water heater, and an EV charger in the driveway that rounds out the home’s functional features.Outdoor, enjoy relaxing evenings on the classic front porch, surrounded by a community known for its charm and walkability. Located minutes from the 210 and 134 freeways, Old Town Pasadena, and the Rose Bowl, you’re close to everything yet tucked away in one of the city’s most beloved historic enclaves.’

Listed with Leticia Anderson CalDRE: 01503722 | (818) 484-6467, Keller Williams Real Estate Services

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/!

$2,988,000 :: 9855 Emperor Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91007

8 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,567 sq ft
Lot Size: 17,059 sq ft
Added: 04/29/25, Last Updated: 05/01/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 25531853
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

WHAT’S SPECIAL 2 (TWO) large single family homes on ONE LARGE LOT, separated by tall block wall at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac street. Although these homes are both VERY LARGE single family residences, they must be sold together as they share the lot and APN. Perfect for a multi-generational family or real estate developer. With eight bedrooms between the two homes, these single family residences were prior rental homes. At one time one home was occupied by the owner while the other created lucrative income as a large rental home. House A – Front of home is surrounded by block wall and bright and beautiful bougainvillea for full privacy and security. Floor-to-ceiling windows along an entire wall in the main living space looks into the beautiful private garden area with numerous shade trees and fruit trees.The garden is so large that it can double as a quaint sitting area and a vegetable fruit garden, or both! Large kitchen (open concept to den separated by bar top counter eating space) with a large walk-in pantry. Fireplace in living room provides warmth and romance. Large closets and other space to store extra items; extra deep two-car garage with electric opener that opens into the kitchen to avoid weather when getting out of the car. This garage is deep with work bench and laundry machines and extra space for your creativity. Storage shed in the yard. Lots of counterspace in kitchen including bar seating area; The kitchen includes a new stainless steel refrigerator. Laminated wood-like flooring throughout. The design of this home is unique as many of the rooms open up into the courtyard. With a little bit of enginuity, this home can be modified to rent out as multiple one-bed/bath units, or it can be divided for the privacy required for a multi-generational family. You must see this one to believe it. THE POSSIBILITES ARE ENDLESS!House B- Very cute 4 bedroom / 3 bath home with wood burning fireplace.Large kitchen, spacious living/dining room; Large closets and lots of storage space including storage shed. For the developer/investor buyers, the back bedroom with private bathroom can be walled off to separate itself from the main home with its double doors leading into the backgard. Large front porch to sit on while watching your family play in the yard. Side porch provides enough space for an outside eating area.In an area with limited land for sale, there is plenty of space to potentially add an ADU (Additional Dwelling Unit) and/or JADU on this unique large property. San Gabriel Mountain views is a nice backdrop on these beautiful cul-de-sac homes.Award-winning Temple City schools Great investment property Each of the two houses have extremely long driveways, perfect for multiple RVs and for parking many cars. A graceful mature Pepper Tree greets you at the entrance of one of the driveways. One of the driveways is so long that it connects up to two different streets providing easy access to the property from 2 different streets. Both houses have beautiful chandeliers that are on Rheostat switches to dim the lights to your liking for mood-lighting. Both houses have central air AC and central heating. This property is just a short walk to local conveniences such as the 99 Ranch Market, schools, Vons, CVS, restaurants, and an ice cream parlor.

Listed with Angela Lazzara CalDRE: 01078277 | 310-315-7226, Del Rey Urban Brokerage 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/!

$3,198,000 :: 2230 Homet Road, San Marino CA, 91108

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,884 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,643 sq ft
Added: 02/19/25, Last Updated: 05/01/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25033991
Community: San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/1/2025 by 2%
Status: Active

This charming San Marino home offers a blend of classic elegance and modern updates, located on a serene street. With three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a convenient powder room, it’s designed for both comfort and style. The spacious living room is anchored by a gas fireplace and features a wet bar with custom-built cabinets and a dual-zone Subzero cooler, perfect for entertaining. The adjacent dining room is equipped with built-in drawers and cabinets, adding to the home’s timeless appeal. The completely remodeled kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring a Wolf 6-burner range, Subzero refrigerator, quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and a cozy breakfast nook. At the rear of the home, the family room is flooded with natural light from French doors that lead out to the backyard, offering a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The meticulously designed backyard is ideal for entertaining, with a spacious hardscape, drip irrigation for the plants and vegetable garden, and a cozy fire-pit for relaxing evenings.Upstairs, the master suite provides custom built-in closets, while the remodeled master bathroom boasts a walk-in shower, soaking tub, and dual sinks. Additional features include a new roof installed in 2018 and a new HVAC system, ensuring both comfort and peace of mind. This updated home seamlessly blends luxury and functionality, offering a perfect balance of privacy, style, and convenience.

Listed with Annie Wang CalDRE: 01942832 | 626-204-3300, 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