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

$2,150,000 :: 3739 Elma Road, Pasadena CA, 91107

4 beds, 3.5 baths
Home size: 2,700 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,844 sq ft
Added: 03/31/25, Last Updated: 06/21/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25066466
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 6/21/2025 by 5%
Status: Active

Experience luxurious suburban living in this stunning, newly-built home, nestled in one of Pasadena’s most sought-after neighborhoods, where graceful peacocks enhance the already captivating curb appeal. This gated residence welcomes you with a professionally designed front yard, leading to a bright and elegant interior.Upon entry, you’ll find a spacious living room adorned with recessed lighting and engineered flooring. A dazzling chandelier illuminates the naturally lit dining area, setting the perfect ambiance for sophisticated gatherings. The open gourmet kitchen boasts custom cabinetry, Quartz countertops, a large center island, a premium 6-burner stove, a built-in refrigerator, and a charming dining nook with an elegant overhanging chandelier. For culinary enthusiasts, an additional caterer’s or wok kitchen offers ample storage and added convenience. The home features 4 generously sized bedrooms, including a private downstairs suite with its own bathroom “” ideal for guests or multi-generational living. The luxurious primary suite upstairs includes a spacious walk-in closet with custom cabinetry and an opulent spa-like bathroom, complete with a soaking tub and a walk-in shower equipped with multiple shower heads. Step out onto your private balcony and enjoy serene views of California’s iconic palm trees.

The lush backyard is perfect for entertaining, featuring a well-maintained lawn and a patio ideal for outdoor grilling, gatherings, and relaxation. An attached 2-car garage completes this remarkable property.

Located in a prestigious neighborhood, this home offers unparalleled convenience, just moments from shopping centers, parks, acclaimed restaurants, top schools, and easy transportation access.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this extraordinary Pasadena gem your own!

Listed with Sharon Liu | 626-538-0827, Re/Max Premier Prop 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/!

$1,595,000 :: 2415 Casa Grande Street, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,827 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,371 sq ft
Added: 06/08/25, Last Updated: 06/21/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PF25133432
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Nestled on a quiet, tree-lined street in desirable Northeast Pasadena, this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 1.75-bathroom home offers approximately 1,827 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Move-in ready, it combines classic character with tasteful modern enhancements.

The spacious living and dining areas feature hardwood floors and recessed lighting, flowing seamlessly into a bright family room that opens to a private patio and lush, landscaped backyard””perfect for indoor-outdoor living. The updated kitchen is appointed with cherry wood cabinetry, granite countertops and backsplash, a premium double-drawer dishwasher, a double-filtration drinking water system.

Significant recent upgrades include a newly installed swimming pool, a new roof, a new HVAC system with updated ducting, remodeled bathrooms, double-pane windows, copper plumbing, recessed lighting in main areas, insulated ceilings, ceiling fans, and water softener-ready plumbing. A separate laundry room adds convenience, while the oversized garage provides high clearance for SUVs and generous storage space.

The beautifully landscaped front yard enhances curb appeal and features a charming collection of fruit trees””including Mexican lime, and mulberry””adding natural beauty and character to the home’s welcoming entrance. Jasmine hedges and ambient outdoor lighting contribute to a peaceful atmosphere, while the brand-new swimming pool in the backyard offers a perfect space for relaxation and entertaining.

This is a rare opportunity to own a turnkey home in one of Pasadena’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

Listed with Michelle Runjing Chen Parrish | 626379-7266, Coldwell Banker

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/!

$1,298,000 :: 1656 Glen Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91103

4 beds, 3.25 baths
Home size: 1,716 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,508 sq ft
Added: 04/24/25, Last Updated: 06/21/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25090929
Community: 645 – Pasadena (NW)
Status: Active

Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom Pasadena gem, built in 2015 and offering 1,716 sq ft of bright, inviting living space. Framed by a lush fenced yard and mature landscaping, this home combines comfort, charm, and modern convenience. Step into a spacious, open-concept layout featuring high-pitched ceilings, recessed lighting, and rich honey-toned flooring throughout. The main house includes four generously sized bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, and a convenient indoor laundry area. The heart of the home is the open concept floorplan with a generous living area overlooking the gourmet kitchen, complete with granite countertops, a center island with bar seating, stainless-steel appliances, and custom cabinetry with under-cabinet lighting””ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.The serene primary suite is found at the end of the hallway and offers a cozy fireplace, a spacious walk-in closet, a luxurious en-suite bath and private access to the backyard Each additional bedroom is filled with natural light and thoughtfully designed for comfort and functionality. A standout feature is the separate 200-sq-ft recreation room complete with its own ¾ bath, attached to the 2-car garage,”” perfect as a guest suite or home office. The space between the main house and garage has been thoughtfully converted into an inviting family gathering area, featuring built-in seating, eating area, TV screen and an outdoor kitchen””ideal for alfresco dining, entertaining, and weekend BBQs. Behind the garage, a spacious backyard offers endless potential””ideal for gardening, play, or even future expansion.

Listed with Luther Tsinoglou | 626-695-8650, 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/!

$2,499,000 :: 3336 Villa Mesa Road, Pasadena CA, 91107

5 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 4,205 sq ft
Lot Size: 19,964 sq ft
Added: 05/19/25, Last Updated: 06/20/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PF25111774
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Welcome to 3336 Villa Mesa Rd, a beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 6-bathroom estate tucked into the peaceful hills of Pasadena’s coveted Upper Hastings Ranch. Sitting on a spacious 20,029 square foot lot, this 4,205 square foot residence offers a rare blend of refined living, privacy, and resort-style amenities.

Step inside to a freshly painted interior that feels bright, clean, and inviting. The generous floor plan offers multiple living spaces, ideal for both relaxing and entertaining, with an effortless flow that connects every corner of the home. Natural light pours in, highlighting thoughtful design and creating a warm and open atmosphere.

From the home, step out into an immaculate backyard””a true sanctuary surrounded by nature. The expansive grounds are dotted with over a dozen mature fruit trees, including lemon, orange, fig, pomelo, avocado, white peach, nectaplum, asian pear, grapefruit, pomegranate, apple and tangerines “”offering seasonal harvests and year-round beauty.

Below the main balcony, discover a tranquil koi pond with a cascading waterfall, adding serenity and charm to the outdoor space. Whether you’re enjoying morning coffee on the balcony or winding down by the water’s edge, this setting invites peace and connection to nature.

The infinity-edge pool sits elegantly in the landscape, perfect for a refreshing dip or soaking in the surrounding views. At the front of the property, a new concrete pad on the circular driveway enhances curb appeal and provides convenient guest parking.

3336 Villa Mesa is a rare combination of thoughtful design, natural beauty, and lifestyle-driven amenities in one of Pasadena’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

Listed with Kawika Hiroshige | , 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/!

$1,798,000 :: 338 Laurel Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,769 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,539 sq ft
Added: 06/08/25, Last Updated: 06/20/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25128158
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Elegant 4 bedroom and 3 bathroom pool home in the serene, tree-lined street of North Arcadia. Once inside, the spacious open-concept living area boasts a stunning vaulted ceiling and large windows, filling the space with natural light. The connecting formal dining room is adjacent to the gourmet kitchen, equipped with modern appliances and an island perfect for entertaining. One bedroom and one bathroom are also thoughtfully appointed at the entry-level. Recent updates include the following new items: paint, refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, and carpet on the second floor. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a private retreat with a luxurious en-suite bathroom and a walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms with a shared bath are also available for family and guests. The outdoor area is a true delight, featuring a beautifully landscaped backyard with a sparkling pool, ideal for alfresco dining. Centrally located close to Arcadia schools, parks, and shopping centers, this home offers the perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation.

Listed with Shuyuan Chen | 626-823-0408, 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/!

$1,500,000 :: 1430 N Roosevelt Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,783 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,001 sq ft
Added: 06/19/25, Last Updated: 06/20/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22816
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Resting on a peaceful, tree-lined street in the desirable President’s Street neighborhood of Northeast Pasadena, 1430 N Roosevelt Ave offers more than just beautiful updates, curb appeal, and majestic mountain views. This picturesque, private home is a thoughtful blend of comfort, style, and easy everyday living. As you enter, the spacious living room provides a warm welcome and invites joyful moments of togetherness. With gleaming hardwood floors, a handsome fireplace, and radiant windows all around, you’ll love how the ambiance is both relaxed and elevated. The nearby dining room, with classic wainscoting, offers the perfect setting for Sunday night feasts before another busy week begins. Beautifully remodeled in 2021, the kitchen is effortlessly elegant with a fresh, modern aesthetic. Generous proportions, integrated stainless appliances, and tons of natural light make this an ideal spot for whipping up your favorite recipes. As an added bonus, the breakfast bar overlooks the family room, which brings everybody closer together. When it’s time to rest, your primary suite is a peaceful retreat with a cathedral ceiling, newly built custom closet, and a luxurious, dual vanity en suite with a decadent soaking tub. Two additional bedrooms are cheerful, filled with light, and share a spacious hallway bath. The home’s idyllic, exceptionally private backyard invites year-round outdoor enjoyment, with a red brick patio for al fresco dinners and a newly added pool to delight in summer time festivities. A versatile detached studio offers even more flexibility–perfect as a home office, art studio, or fitness room you’ve always wanted. A gorgeous home for planting roots and filling with love, 1430 N Roosevelt Ave is the perfect slice of paradise you’ve been dreaming of!

Listed with Evangelyn Lin CalDRE: N | 626-807-6581, eXp Realty of California, 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/!

$1,500,000 :: 1440 Riviera Drive, Pasadena CA, 91107

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,802 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,223 sq ft
Added: 06/11/25, Last Updated: 06/20/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR25139326
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Welcome to 1440 Riviera Avenue, a beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the sought-after Hastings Ranch neighborhood of Pasadena. Offering approximately 1,802 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this home blends style, comfort, and versatility. The tastefully remodeled kitchen is a showstopper with sleek quartz countertops, contemporary tile flooring, stainless steel appliances, soft-close cabinetry, and fresh modern hardware. Gorgeous wood floors flow throughout the home, complemented by fresh interior paint and soaring ceilings in the living room that create a bright, open ambiance. The stylishly renovated bathrooms feature all-new finishes, fixtures, and a clean, contemporary design. A spacious family room or game room offers the perfect spot for entertaining, while an additional office or potential fourth bedroom provides flexibility for any lifestyle. Step outside to a generously sized yard with stunning views of the city lights, valley, and surrounding mountains””an ideal setting for both relaxing and entertaining. This is Pasadena living at its finest. Don’t miss out!

Listed with Matthew Hardy | 818-480-2032, Michael Green Realty & Inv.

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 :: 1280 Glen Oaks Boulevard, Pasadena CA, 91105

2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,731 sq ft
Lot Size: 37,266 sq ft
Added: 06/02/25, Last Updated: 06/20/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 25545551
Community: 645 – Pasadena (NW)
Status: Active

This Architectural master piece is nestled amid lush natural surroundings and striking architectural landmarks, this extraordinary home is a true embodiment of its environment. Originally designed and inhabited by renowned mid-century architect Thornton Ladd prior to his acclaimed partnership with John Kelsey, this residence served as both his personal home and creative studio. Captivated by the beauty of the area, Ladd went on to design several homes nearby, a testament to the location’s enduring inspiration.From the moment you step inside, the home captivates with panoramic views framed by an expansive wall of glass that opens to the valley below and the hills beyond. Sunlight floods the interiors, creating a warm, radiant ambiance throughout the day and offering breathtaking sunset vistas in the evening.The thoughtfully reimagined open floor plan has been meticulously renovated by the current owner to the highest standards. Highlights include premium Dornbracht fixtures, elegant Revenhill lighting, wide-plank flooring, custom white oak cabinetry, and top-of-the-line appliances all curated to blend timeless design with modern luxury.Additional features include a fully enclosed dog run and dual driveways that provide generous guest parking perfect for entertaining. One can easily imagine the glamorous gatherings once hosted here, where distinguished clients, celebrated friends, and iconic architects.

Listed with Payman Emamian | 818-468-3116, 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/!

$4,200,000 :: 1780 S Santa Anita Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

5 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 7,042 sq ft
Lot Size: 18,034 sq ft
Added: 06/17/25, Last Updated: 06/20/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25108954
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

This stunning custom estate blends modern sophistication with timeless elegance, offering every amenity for classic Californian indoor-outdoor living and entertaining. Designed by renowned architect Robert Tong and built in 2015 by Bowden Development, Inc., this one of kind estate sits on over 18,000 sqft lot in one of Arcadia’s most prestigious neighborhoods.

Beyond the gated entrance, a spacious and private front courtyard with a majestic oak tree and outdoor fireplace welcomes guests in true California style. With over 7,040 sqft of thoughtfully designed living space, the home features 5 en-suite bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and a flowing layout adorned with designer finishes, custom lighting, and top-tier materials throughout.

The dramatic 25-foot grand foyer showcases a sweeping staircase and leads to formal living and dining rooms, a private executive office with custom built-ins, and an expansive family room with wet bar overlooking the manicured backyard. The heart of the home features both a modern chef’s kitchen with marble center island and premium appliances, as well as a separate wok kitchen for Chinese cuisine.

Designed for entertaining, the home includes multiple dining areas, a wine room, and a state-of-the-art home theater. The main level also includes a junior suite with walk-in closet, ideal for guests or multi-generational living.

Upstairs, the luxurious master suite offers a serene retreat with a sitting area, custom walk-in closets, spa-like bath, and picturesque views of the backyard. Three additional spacious en-suites and a loft area complete the upper level.

Conveniently located within walking distance to Arcadia’s award-winning schools, golf courses, shops, and dining, this exceptional property exemplifies sleek elegance and modern comfort””a true dream home in the heart of Arcadia.

Listed with RISI NA CalDRE: S | 626-267-8089, 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/!

$3,790,000 :: 1620 Rubio Drive, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 4.5 baths
Home size: 3,100 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,637 sq ft
Added: 06/13/25, Last Updated: 06/20/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25133291
Community: 655 – San Marino
Status: Active

Experience Timeless Elegance in San Marino’s Finest Cape Cod Home has been meticulously expanded and rebuilt in 2025. Nestled in the neighborhood of San Marino, this architectural masterpiece presents a captivating blend of classic charm and modern luxury. This elegant of luxury-designed home features a grand foyer with a high ceiling leads to an elegant living room with a fireplace, a library with built-in bookshelves. A gorgeous residence of 3,100 sqft offers 4 en-suite bedrooms and 4.5 baths (4 suites) on a 7,633 sqft perfectly landscaped lot. An expansive Family room overlooks the stunning garden with a wet bar present space, openness to family activities as well as social gatherings,a state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen featuring the top-of-the-line steel appliances and granite countertops, a unique center island with dining seats, a dining area with a brass light fixture, The Master suite is conveniently located on the 1st floor includes luxurious bath with dual sinks, soaking tub, shower walk-in closet and extensive use of marble.a power room, a laundry room, and complete the first level. Built for relaxation. Other bedroom suites are on the first floor, and an additional spacious 2-bedroom suite is upstairs. Each bathroom has its unique tile work and design. Other highlights include covered wall wood panelling, oak hardwood floor, deep crown moldings, designer light fixtures throughout, fire sprinkler and burglar alarm systems auto gate. The extra deep 2-car detached garage with an extended setback from the street adds to the exclusivity and privacy of this exceptional property. Embrace the serenity of this quiet and high-end community, where sophistication meets convenience, and where you’ll find yourself within walking distance to San Marino High School. Don’t miss this unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of San Marino’s history and experience luxurious living at its finest.

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/!

(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