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

$9,800,000 :: 720 S San Rafael Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91105

5 beds, 7 baths
Home size: 6,255 sq ft
Lot Size: 111,418 sq ft
Added: 05/16/22, Last Updated: 05/18/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-9552
Community: Pasadena (SW)
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active

An extraordinary real estate offering sited on the East bank of San Rafael Avenue overlooking the Arroyo Seco. Boasting breathtaking views, authentic mid-century design, and dual parcels, this unparalleled gated estate is available for the first time in 40 years. The principal residence is sited on over 86,000 sq.ft. of lush grounds. Views encompass the San Gabriel Mountain range, iconic Pasadena landmarks, and the environs beyond. The property includes a gradual drop, maximizing the spectacular vistas and providing a unique multi-leveled outdoor space that is nothing less than spectacular. Enter the private, lush property past the gated entrance, to find a magical wonderland of surprises. Extraordinarily green and inviting, the grounds seem to transport you to a refuge beyond, a hideaway. Verdant lawns and towering trees create an enchanting oasis curated with entertaining areas, undulated vantage points, and meandering paths–always somewhere to explore. Art is immediately part of the home experience, with beautiful exterior installations. This rare single-story compound, situated on a quiet stretch of the prestigious South San Rafael district, the residence, offering 5-bedrooms, 7-bathrooms and 6,255 square feet of living space, is as beautiful as functional. A long-covered patio greets guests, and inside, the home has been maintained authentically with impeccable timeless detail and condition. Tile floors lend an adobe feel, and glass walls put the priceless view on full display. The glass-walled living area includes an oversized fireplace, views of the resort-like pool, spa, and lush gardens, and easily connects to a romantic dining room. A wood-paneled library office with a corner fireplace features tree-top views and is another unique respite. The kitchen is spacious, with white cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances. Each bathroom and bedroom provide its exquisite design details, genuine to the period.A guest home includes a studio bedroom, sitting area, kitchenette, 3/4-bathroom, private entrance, and scenic views spanning from the Colorado Boulevard Bridge to the La Loma Road Bridge. An enchanting tree house is on-site as well–just follow the wooden footbridge to the dreamy nook full of imagination, complete with a slide and porch. A motor court with a circular driveway features a two-car detached garage and a three-car carport adds ease. This is an oasis that will continue to amaze and inspire.

Listed with Rita Whitney CalDRE: 01209004 | (626) 755-4988, The Agency

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/!

$1,199,000 :: 2185 Loma Vista Street, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 1,452 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,149 sq ft
Added: 05/17/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-9579
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active

This is yet another rare opportunity to secure a cozy Spanish-Bungalow in one of the most sought-after and coveted neighborhoods in the beautiful city of Pasadena, CA. First time on the market in 55 years and this home has been well cared for. Some of the character details include Spanish roof tiles, panoramic living room window, coved ceilings, a cozy fireplace, lath & plaster walls, built-in craftsman cabinets and the solid-wood front door with the peep-hole window on hinges. Over time, the upgrades include a high efficiency heating & air system, dual paned windows, Spanish roof tile upgrade, re-built garage plus a durable shed, auto-sprinklers, and newer water heater. The mature oak trees provide plenty of shade for the back yard. This cozy home is ready for modern upgrades. The new Owner will enjoy customizing this home to their life-style. Local attractions include quality schools, parks, convenient retail centers, cycling, hiking trails plus quick access to the 210 freeway and DTLA Down-Town Los Angeles (DTLA) by way of Metro train. In addition, this home is minutes away from Old-Town Pasadena, the Rose Bowl, Pasadena’s Arts District and more!

Listed with Marc Ellis CalDRE: 01436778 | (626) 318-6844, 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/!

$3,988,000 :: 665 S Santa Anita Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 3,770 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,565 sq ft
Added: 05/09/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS22093423
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Welcome home to this bright and airy 1951 mid-century ranch style home, east of the Huntington Library and Lacy Park! While retaining the original characteristics, the previous owner has meticulously updated and expanded the home with modern luxuries and amenities as well as rich architectural embellishment. The current owner of the property has taken rigorous care of the home by maintaining the original beauty of both the interior and exterior, and by adding a fresh new coat of paint throughout the first level of the home. The living room is anchored with a handsome custom-built fireplace with marble front & fluted columns. Adjacent to the hallway and dining room is a spacious family room completely remodeled, with Premium Oakwood panelings, as both a family room and a home theater featuring built-in surround-sound speakers, built-in shelves and custom Hunter Douglas Motorized Shutters. The dining room, breakfast area and family room flow seamlessly to the outdoor kitchen/dining and the picture-perfect backyard with heated rectangular pool, a spacious guest house with full bath, & a pool pavilion. The professionally landscaped water-wise yard is a centerpiece to this spectacular and well-maintained home. The outdoor chef’s kitchen has stainless steel Kalamazoo appliances and an outdoor dining area and pool pavilion both featuring outdoor built-in surround sound speakers and built-in electric patio heaters. Adjoining the pool pavilion is an outdoor redbrick fireplace with TV and wiring installed, and steps away is where the bespoke “outdoor rock shower” is. Coming back to the chef’s kitchen inside, it offers white Calacatta marble countertops with white cabinetry throughout and built-in appliances such as Sub Zero refrigerator, Viking cooktop & oven, Viking Rangehood, Miele dishwasher, and Scotsman Craft Ice Maker. There are 4 suites total with a master suite featuring a spa inspired bath, a free-standing tub, walk-in closet & double French doors. A tastefully updated powder room with marble finishes and an office den complete the layout of the 1st floor alongside two of the suites. The two remaining suites are located on the 2nd level, each with transitionally refined marble baths and vanities. Other highlights include Premium Oakwood flooring throughout the entire home, copper plumbing system, a tankless water heater, a 260 bottle capacity Sub-Zero wine storage, an automatic sprinkler system, updated fencing & a vegetation garden.

Listed with LAUREN LIN CalDRE: 02129044 | 626-872-2207, KW Executive

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/!

$1,759,000 :: 4092 Park Vista Drive, Pasadena CA, 91107

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,057 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,454 sq ft
Added: 05/17/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-9573
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active

Sitting high against the foothills, this beautiful single level Spanish Contemporary home is surrounded by lush landscaping, lovely private patios, and a relaxing pool and spa. Scenic views abound, with majestic mountain views behind the house, and stunning evening views of twinkling city lights from the front patio. Entering from the ornate custom double doors, you are greeted by a spacious living room with a dramatic double fireplace that is shared with the family room. The dining room, with its graceful bow window overlooking the front landscaping, is open to the living room. Handsome custom wood sliding doors with beveled glass escort you from the living room to the private back patio, complete with a fire pit. The gourmet kitchen includes lovely cabinetry, and granite counters, along with a large center island overlooking the spacious family room. Walk out to a relaxing pool and spa surrounded by brick paved patio and an extra-large, retractable awning cover, which is a huge bonus in the warm summer days. The 3 bedrooms each have patio access or a view window. The spacious master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom with a double sink vanity and a roomy walk-in closet. The secondary bedrooms are nice sized, and have use of the full main bathroom, located off the hallway. Indoor/outdoor surround sound speakers are found in almost every living space. The attached 3 car garage offers plenty of storage space and includes an attic fan. This lovely 2,057 sq. ft. home sits on a 12,432 sq. ft. lot, and is truly a comfortable family retreat, as well as an entertainer’s delight!

Listed with Annette Marchain CalDRE: 00544980 | (626) 674-5486, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California 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/!

$2,380,000 :: 543 S Berkeley Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,667 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,811 sq ft
Added: 05/17/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS22103684
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Designed by the renowned architect Wallace Neff, this 1926 home is located in the prestigious City of San Marino. This beautiful property offers three bedrooms and three baths in the main house, the convertible den could be used as a fourth bedroom. There is a permitted guest quarter with bath over the four-car garage. The house has been meticulously maintained for decades by the current owner. Come in and experience this trophy estate and see its architectural beauty along with the guest quarter. Located near the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, Cal Tech, and award winning schools. This unique and lavish home is not to be missed.

Listed with EUGENE SUN CalDRE: 00848332 | 626-557-9914, REGION 1 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/!

$825,000 :: 2021 Forest Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91103

2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,270 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,040 sq ft
Added: 05/04/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: GD22093275
Community: Pasadena (NW)
Status: Active

Situated on a quaint and lovely street, this home offers a cozy and luxurious environment. There is a formal living room, as well as a family room. The remodeled kitchen will wow you with stainless steel appliances and beautiful cabinetry. The updated bathrooms offer modern upgrades. A separate laundry room is an added bonus. The current owners have created a primary bedroom, which overlooks the backyard. This addition is not permitted and buyer must accept the City of Pasadena’s transfer of responsibility for said space. Conveniently located to the 210 freeway, Old Pasadena, JPL, and the Rose Bowl, this is a rare find.

Listed with Sharon Hills CalDRE: 00999021 | 818-725-1041, Kobeissi Properties 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/!

$899,900 :: 862 Chapman Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91103

4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,205 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,646 sq ft
Added: 04/18/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV22077972
Community: Not Defined
Status: Active

** ONE STORY ** cozy home located in the heart of Pasadena! This home has alot of potential such as adding a second unit, easy acess to the 210 freeway, and near the Rose Bowl Stadium!

Listed with CESAR GOMEZ CalDRE: 01876957 | 909-921-1012, ALIGN HOMES

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/!

$1,199,900 :: 2241 Garfias Drive, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,779 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,715 sq ft
Added: 05/17/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: GD22099295
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Great Opportunity, Great Location, Great Neighborhood .This beautiful property offers three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, living room, family room, custom kitchen and a private large back yard. Current owner was running a day care and it’s a perfect opportunity to continue since it’s fully set up for it. Recent upgrades: electric, doors, windows, custom iron side gate, fences, walk ways, side walk pavers and much more. In addition there is a spacious covered brick patio that you can access from the kitchen / family room. Every inch of this property has been meticulously landscaped using the Mediterranean gardens as the inspiration. Artistic sculptures, numerous hand-crafted decorations, metallic gates, and paver stones adorn the property. In the evenings, the outdoor lighting turns the property into a magical wonderland perfect for hosting special events. It is close to Eaton Canyon Trail, Loma Alta Park, Stanford School, Old Town, the Rose Bowl, Washington Square, freeway, restaurants and shops. This is your opportunity to own this unique home.

Listed with Tigran Arutunian CalDRE: 00991108 | 818-957-0101, Discovery Realty and Finance

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/!

$6,495,000 :: 375 Linda Vista Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91105

8 beds, 8 baths
Home size: 7,402 sq ft
Lot Size: 36,765 sq ft
Added: 05/17/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-9566
Community: Pasadena (NW)
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active

Standing proud on a generously sized lot is this magnificent Pasadena estate designed by the notable architect J. Constantine Hillman, where style and elegance are displayed among the finest in contemporary comfort. A curved driveway ushers you past meticulously maintained grounds where a majestic fountain is positioned opposite an impressive arched front entrance. In the vestibule, the crown, base, and door moldings, hardwood flooring, and sweeping staircase offer a sneak peek at the high level of quality you’ll find throughout. There are multiple gathering spaces for you and your company to enjoy. Upstairs, a well-sized family room treats you to a beamed cathedral ceiling, a fireplace, and a custom walnut TV cabinet.Impeccable finishes continue in the gourmet kitchen. The avid chef will have honed Bianco Carrara marble countertops and backsplash, an island with seating for seven, inset soft-close cabinets, Shaw’s farmhouse sink, plus top-of-the-line appliances from Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Miele. A butler’s pantry showcases a new mahogany-topped custom bar, U-Line ice maker, and a hammered-nickel sink with a Rohl faucet. Prepare to be dazzled by your primary bedroom, which is expansive and bathed in natural light by double-paned, sound-resistant windows. You’ll have a fireplace, a deep, well-organized walk-in closet, a tasteful bath, designer wallpaper, and custom matching drapes and valances. In the backyard, a staircase leads to the home’s remodeled and inviting guest house. Lush landscaping has been beautifully terraced and mulched to complement the brick patio where you can take a refreshing dip in the heated saltwater pool, dine alfresco in a well-equipped outdoor kitchen. Golfers will love the five-hole putting green. Be sure to check out the sunroom, mudroom, office, and specially designed guitar room. This stunning, abode is conveniently located near the Rose Bowl Aquatic Center and iconic Rose Bowl Stadium with easy access to major freeways, Annandale Golf Club, the CalTech Campus, and Pasadena City College. Popular local shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations are also in close proximity. Come take advantage of this amazing opportunity. A tour of this marvelous manor will leave you in awe of the dream life that awaits you!

Listed with Gus Ruelas CalDRE: 01221146 | (626) 375-5401, The Agency

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/!

$1,649,000 :: 1201 N Altadena Drive, Pasadena CA, 91107

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,082 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,012 sq ft
Added: 04/04/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: DW22058565
Community: Not Defined
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/17/2022 by 8%
Status: Active

Spectacular re-imagined custom home in the heart of Pasadena. Inviting open concept floor plan with a large, flat and usable lot. Brand new presidential roof, dirt grading ready with endless possibilities for both front, back yards and space for ADU or a pool. Built in closets in all bedrooms, walk in built in master bedroom. Double shower head in master bathroom, walk-in pantry with floating shelves and custom cabinets. Custom island with black stainless steal range. Patio deck leading from living room sliding door. Exterior light out throughout exterior. New black aluminon frame with double pane, noise cancellation windows. Redwood backyard fencing, upgraded tankless water heater, custom quartz in kitchen and in bathrooms as well as custom shaker cabinets. Laundry space inside the house. Near parks and good private schools and also close to Eaton Canyon trails and nice mountain view from master bedroom.

Listed with Raffael Cursaro CalDRE: 01810276 | 714-321-5159, Raffaele Cursaro

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