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

$2,295,000 :: 1912 Mill Road, South Pasadena CA, 91030

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,964 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,198 sq ft
Added: 09/05/24, Last Updated: 10/12/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: GD24169237
Community: So. Pasadena
Status: Active

Discover this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom California Bungalow with a pool, nestled on a cul-de-sac street in the heart of South Pasadena. Steps away from the serene Garfield Park, within the “City of Trees,” this charming home perfectly blends classic character with modern convenience, surrounded by stunning architecture, unique small businesses, and top-quality schools. Inside, the home offers a thoughtfully designed layout with two bedrooms downstairs and two upstairs, providing flexibility for family living, guests, or a home office. The spacious primary bedroom features a remodeled ensuite with a walk-in shower, designer tile, and double sinks. The newly remodeled kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring state-of-the-art Bosch appliances, custom built-ins, quartz countertops, a new composite sink, and a sizeable peninsula ideal for meal prep or casual dining. The living room with its exposed wood beam cathedral ceilings is centered around a charming brick fireplace with a classic woo mantel, flanked by custom built-in cabinetry that provides both character and functional storage. Adjacent to the living room, a spacious family room opens to a fully enclosed private backyard. This home boasts extensive upgrades throughout, including new hardwood flooring, LED recessed lighting, a new electrical panel, new pool equipment, a new tankless water heater, exterior light fixtures, interior doors, new gas lines, insulation, upgraded Romex wiring, PEX plumbing, and a new main sewer line—ensuring peace of mind for years to come. A new wood tongue-and-groove ceiling adds warmth and style to common areas. Step outside to your tiered retreat, complete with a refreshing replastered pool and spa adorned with new tile and a newly roofed carport, providing additional outdoor space for relaxation or entertainment. Located in the highly desirable South Pasadena neighborhood, this home presents a unique opportunity to live in one of the most sought-after areas of Los Angeles County. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of this vibrant community where history, nature, and modern living come together seamlessly.

Listed with Janette Ledea CalDRE: 01480942 | 626-683-0300, Re/Max Tri-City 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/!

$1,595,000 :: 1844 E Orange Grove Boulevard, Pasadena CA, 91104

5 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,384 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,190 sq ft
Added: 09/01/24, Last Updated: 10/12/24
MLS Number: 24434391
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

PASADENA DREAM ESTATE IN THE MAKING! With enough space to build a dream on, this classic 5 bedroom, 2 bath, 1926 home with a sprawling 1/3 acre lot in its elegant Northeast Pasadena neighborhood of Casa Grande is built for graceful living. Gorgeous hardwood flooring sets the stage for this gracious home which is flooded with natural light. A party-sized living room leads to a formal dining room with a wall of French doors for indoor/outdoor living. The spacious kitchen adorned with a plethora of vintage 50’s cabinets adjoins an adorable breakfast room also perfect for romantic dinners or additional holiday dining. 4 of the bedrooms and the 2 baths are off the center hall floor plan, while the 5th bedroom makes the perfect home office with a separate entrance from the front porch. Closet space is excellent, the primary bedroom has a cedar lined closet and a dressing area with a built in vanity, and even the California style basement has built-ins! The many upgrades include solar, tankless water heater, newer electrical and dual zone heating and air, newer roof, and bolted foundation. There’s just enough tweaking left over to put your stamp on this one-of-a-kind home. Besides having a long front porch where you can laze the days away and commune with your neighbors, the 15,000 sq ft lot with beautiful mature trees has huge front and back lawns, a large cement back patio, a 2 car garage off Orange Grove in the front and an additional larger garage off Crawford Alley in the rear. Just think of the expansion and luxury amenity possibilities! Conveniently a few minutes away from gourmet dining, the farmer’s market, Old Pasadena, human and dog parks, hiking in Eaton Canyon, PCC, Cal Tech, shopping, fine theatre, and the floats from the Rose Parade! On the market for the first time in about 30 years, this home is a genuine treat to discover. Come explore and try it on for size! Please note the two chandeliers are not included.

Listed with Diane McDonald CalDRE: 01019403 | 323-236-4369, Keller Williams Realty Los Feliz

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/!

$10,500,000 :: 1260 Shenandoah Road, San Marino CA, 91108

7 beds, 7 baths
Home size: 7,626 sq ft
Lot Size: 52,094 sq ft
Added: 11/16/22, Last Updated: 10/12/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR22243187
Community: San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/27/2024 by 12%
Status: Active

Completely renovated new house, finished in 2014. The original main house has 5,326 sq. ft. plus an additional new add-on of around 2,300 sq. ft., total square footage now is 7,620 sq. ft., not including the basement around 700 sq. ft. with one bath. Highlights of the main house: 5 bedrooms, 7 baths, brand new elevator, brand new stair case, 2 kitchens with high-end Viking kitchen equipment. Most bathrooms of the main house are equipped with steam and Jacuzzi tub, and bidets. The master bedroom itself has 2 baths –his and hers, with totally different designs at best qualities. Top of the line flooring, granite, marble, hardwood floor and built-in carpentry throughout the entire house. Special designer painting throughout the house with Venetian plaster ceiling. 6 all new fire places with remote control lighting and functions. Main house has a 3-car garage. There’s more! 3 other separate buildings totaling approx. 1,500 sq. ft. : The pool house – 4 fully loaded gym equipment. The massage room with spa and steam room. The guest house – Game room/ living room upstairs with kitchen and one bed / one bath downstairs, additional 2-car garage with 360 degree turn around floor. San Marino School. Also walking distance to Lacy park.

Listed with Jenny Ma CalDRE: 01882851 | 626-241-2681, Sunny Realty Group, 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/!

$2,980,000 :: 57 W Pamela Road, Arcadia CA, 91007

4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 3,757 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,641 sq ft
Added: 10/11/24, Last Updated: 10/11/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR24210444
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

Welcome to this elegant and luxurious Tuscan-style villa estate located in a prime area of Arcadia. This estate showcases meticulous contemporary design and the highest quality materials throughout the property. Upon entering, you are welcomed by a creamy marble stone wall. The first floor features an open-concept design with a living room and dining area, along with a cozy library that overlooks the serene backyard, and a spacious bedroom suite. Additionally, there is a separate Chinese-wok kitchen, pantry cabinetry, a powder room, and a laundry room. Upstairs, you’ll find a loft and the master suite, which includes a walk-in closet. The master bathroom offers double sinks, a Jacuzzi tub, and another walk-in closet with organizers. The second floor also includes two junior suites and a home movie theater. The property is professionally landscaped both in the front and backyard. Facing south, this home is within walking distance of Arcadia High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. A must-see to truly appreciate!

Listed with Sunyoung McDermott CalDRE: 01871582 | 626-660-1100, Re/Max Premier Prop SanMarino

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/!

$850,000 :: 1320 Oak Hill Place, South Pasadena CA, 91030

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,382 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,754 sq ft
Added: 09/19/24, Last Updated: 10/11/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-19327
Community: So. Pasadena
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/11/2024 by 8%
Status: Active

Oak Hill Place is a charming, tree-lined street with generous sloping lots at the southwestern-end of South Pasadena. Enjoying the benefits of South Pasadena’s blue ribbon schools, this property feels like a NELA home, but has the added benefit of inclusion in South Pasadena. This property is situated among other homes which have added ADU’s and rebuilt to enhance square footage and views. Experienced Builders, Developers or Rehab Experts only, as this property will likely require a cash purchase and needs to be entirely rebuilt.

Listed with Peter Martocchio CalDRE: 01311046 | (626) 529-6880, 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/!

$2,188,000 :: 2450 Lorain Road, San Marino CA, 91108

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,923 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,331 sq ft
Added: 08/20/24, Last Updated: 10/11/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-18949
Community: San Marino
The price of this listing was last increased on 8/20/2024 by 0%
Status: Active

Welcome to 2450 Lorain Road where charm meets elegance! Situated on a beautifully landscaped lot this adorable English Cottage awaits a new family. The spacious living room features a fireplace flanked with bookshelves for displaying family treasures and opens to an expansive deck. A large dining room with sliding doors also offers access to the deck which is perfect for hosting intimate al fresco dining with family or entertaining on a larger scale. The well-appointed and updated kitchen makes family meal prep easy, and you can enjoy keeping a watchful eye on the children as they romp and play in the side yard from the kitchen window! The quaint breakfast area is a perfect spot for kids’ homework or a comfy place to enjoy morning coffee. There are 3 large bedrooms and an office with a cozy fireplace can easily be a 4th bedroom if needed. There is an updated kitchen, updated windows and doors, wood flooring throughout most of the home and Central Air & Heat. The private back yard is dotted with mature trees and offers a convenient automatic driveway gate. Relax on the lattice covered backyard patio and enjoy the verdant and peaceful backyard. Don’t miss this one as it is sure to sell quickly!

Listed with Reni Rose CalDRE: 00975915 | (626) 437-6000, 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/!

$1,600,000 :: 262 Glen Summer Road, Pasadena CA, 91105

4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,136 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,703 sq ft
Added: 10/11/24, Last Updated: 10/11/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 24451905
Community: Pasadena (SW)
Status: Active

Charming Cape Cod Home in Pasadena’s Glen Summer Landmark District: Nestled in the heart of Pasadena’s renowned San Rafael neighborhood, this dreamy Cape Cod-style home, built in 1936, is a rare gem and on the market for the first time in over 25 years. Tucked away in the sought-after Glen Summer Landmark District, this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence exudes timeless elegance and warmth. With 2136 square feet of living space, the home offers both comfort and character on a serene, picturesque tree-lined street. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by sun-drenched rooms, rich wood flooring, and an inviting fireplace that promises cozy evenings. A formal dining room, with its classic built-in cabinetry, provides the perfect backdrop for elegant gatherings or intimate dinners. The main level of the home features two generously sized bedrooms, while the upper level houses the remaining two bedrooms, including a primary suite with a private sitting area- a peaceful retreat for quiet reflection or morning coffee. The large storage room in the primary bedroom offers endless potential- whether you envision a luxe en-suite bathroom, a walk-in closet, or an art studio, the choice is yours. Original character details abound, from the charming built-ins to the vintage glass door knobs, evoking a sense of timeless craftsmanship. Large windows throughout bathe the home in natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends the past with the present. The location is equally enchanting. Just around the corner, the San Rafael Library and elementary school are within a stone’s throw. Nearby, the beloved Little Flower cafe serves up delightful pastries and coffee, while San Rafael Park invites you to enjoy afternoon picnics and leisurely activities. This is more than just a home- it’s a place where memories are made, where quiet elegance and tranquil surroundings create a haven from the world. Don’t miss the chance to make this enchanting piece of Pasadena history yours.

Listed with Carrie Bryden CalDRE: 01339551 | 323-829-1158, ACME Real Estate

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/!

$860,000 :: 5534 N Santa Anita Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,187 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,988 sq ft
Added: 10/08/24, Last Updated: 10/11/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS24208720
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

Nestled in a great Arcadia neighborhood, 5534 N. Santa Anita Ave is a beautifully updated single-story home featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. This charming residence has been refreshed with modern upgrades, including brand-new vinyl plank flooring and fresh paint throughout, inside and out, creating a stylish, move-in-ready atmosphere. The spacious master suite offers a private retreat with its own ensuite bathroom, while the home’s cozy layout adds to its appeal. The detached 2-car garage has been enhanced with a sleek epoxy-coated floor and pegboards for ample storage and workspace. The serene backyard provides the perfect setting for outdoor relaxation. Conveniently located near major freeways, shopping, and dining, this home offers a seamless blend of comfort and modern convenience. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this gem your own!

Listed with RONNIE CHAN CalDRE: 01932278 | 626-214-8813, R Life 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/!

$2,550,000 :: 959 Mesa Verde Road, Pasadena CA, 91105

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,214 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,970 sq ft
Added: 10/11/24, Last Updated: 10/11/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-19582
Community: Pasadena (SW)
Status: Active

Do not miss seeing this stunning home, located in SW Pasadena’s desirable San Rafael area. A new ADU, built with the most luxurious of materials, helps make this home the special one you’ve been waiting for. Beautifully situated on the lot, a winding path with mature landscaping welcomes you, with the other entrance a driveway w/ electric gate. A formal entry, w/ gleaming hardwood floors is the start of a great floor plan. An abundance of natural light is plentiful in the large Living Room, w/ fireplace, built-in bookcase & numerous windows showcasing the gorgeous gardens-a Dining Area is semi-formal, w/ French doors & large sidelights opening to brick patios, w/ a new jacuzzi & built-in Kitchen & BBQ. The recently leveled & re-bricked patios offer the desirable So-Cal indoor/outdoor living spaces w/ alfresco dining or enjoy the private new jacuzzi, surrounded by lush landscaping & beautiful new wood gates. The bright & cheery Kitchen has a center island, storage galore & washer/dryer. The spectacular Primary Bedroom Suite is one of the outstanding features of this home-it’s extremely spacious, w/ the loveliest of built-in storage spaces, dressers & bookshelves w/ an expansive walk-in closet, w/ center island & window seat. A stunning Bath w/ newer marble counters, built-in vanity, separate tub & oversized shower completes the picture. A second Bedroom Suite is smartly located on the other side of the home, also w/ hardwood floors & natural light. This Bath offers whimsical wallpaper & a large shower. Custom shutters, alarm system, redone sprinkler system, curated landscaping, car chargers-even a pet door to the rear, all add value & convenience. The ADU is the one you dream of: luxurious, gorgeous, never lived in, w/ a cozy nook for a bed, built-in closet, a Bath w/ oversized shower, very high-end tile & a Kitchen that could be in a Showcase House! Welcoming w/ French doors & sidelights, outdoor areas & privacy galore, this ADU is perfect for guests or whatever you need it to be. Thoughtful details abound w/ reading lights above the nook & even custom separation for recycling in the kitchen. A private door off the driveway ensures extra privacy & convenience for entering. Worried about where to store your suitcases for a European holiday? Don’t be:there is a large storage closet built behind the ADU. Freshly painted throughout, this home is move-in ready! Elegance, timeless style & a superb location are the hallmarks of this property. Come visit and see

Listed with Augusta Sanborn CalDRE: 01226787 | (626) 252-5711, 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/!

$1,385,000 :: 1579 Pepper Drive, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,638 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,558 sq ft
Added: 10/11/24, Last Updated: 10/11/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-19578
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Nestled on a quiet tree-lined street in a well-established and beloved northeast Pasadena neighborhood, this traditional Ranch home is welcomed to the market for the first time in almost 30 years. Details like crown molding, recessed lighting, dual-pane windows, engineered wood, and Saltillo tile flooring anchor this nicely updated home. Upon entry, a light and bright formal living room welcomes you in and beckons views of the lush rear yard beyond. Formal dining opens to the remodeled kitchen with a lovely vaulted skylit ceiling, custom cabinetry, and built-in laundry, making function a priority. Two guest bedrooms and a newly renovated spa-like bathroom with dual sinks, an extra large shower enclosure, and pebble flooring complete one wing of the home. Additionally, the primary en suite bedroom boasts a wall of closets and built-in storage cabinets for all of your home essentials. Take in the Indoor/outdoor living as the large family room seamlessly opens to expansive outdoor entertaining at its finest. An exterior custom kitchen is the focal point of the space with a built-in grill, refrigerator, sink, and bar counter. Dining with large groups and firepit conversations are plentiful. The private yard provides lots of space where kids and pets can safely play while you pick fruit from your very own blood orange, lemon, lime, and apple trees. The bonus office space provided off the garage offers privacy and a wonderful place to work from home, yet peacefully away from the main house.This beautiful home is conveniently located in East Washington Village close to Victory Park, Eaton Canyon, The Metro, Hastings Ranch shopping, Alice’s dog park, and lots of local eateries and dessert shops. Come see the many reasons this home is so special.

Listed with Anne Kislingbury CalDRE: 01927204 | (626) 831-8482, Berkshire Hathaway Home Servic

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