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

$3,380,000 :: 1060 San Marino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108

3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,339 sq ft
Lot Size: 22,538 sq ft
Added: 03/10/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-16801
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Step into the timeless elegance of this wonderful single-level home, a masterpiece of 1948 architecture, nestled on a sprawling 22,539 square foot lot in the prestigious heart of San Marino. Boasting exquisite craftsmanship and elegant details throughout, this residence offers a seamless blend of classic charm and modern amenities. Upon entering, you are greeted by a gracious living room adorned with an ornate fireplace and custom built-ins. The formal dining room exudes sophistication, while the adjacent breakfast room with custom cabinetry offers a charming spot to enjoy morning coffee. A paneled study provides a refined retreat for work or relaxation, while a butler’s pantry adds convenience and style to your entertaining endeavors. Sunlight streams into the inviting family room, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere around the second fireplace for gatherings with loved ones. The charming kitchen features an abundance of cabinetry and custom tile counters. This special home features 3 bedrooms and 4 baths, including a luxurious primary suite complete with a separate dressing area and walk-in closet. The primary bath is a spa-like sanctuary, featuring a separate shower, indulgent spa tub, dual vanities, and a private water closet. Outside, the enchanting grounds beckon with a delightful pool and patio areas, perfect for outdoor entertaining or serene moments of relaxation. A spacious basement with a workshop provides additional flexibility and storage space. Located just minutes from the renowned Huntington Gardens and Library, this residence offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of San Marino’s rich history and unparalleled beauty.

Listed with Darrell Done CalDRE: 01233781 | (626) 354-3551, 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/!

$4,398,000 :: 1000 Park Ave, Arcadia CA, 91007

5 beds, 7 baths
Home size: 8,046 sq ft
Lot Size: 1,025,838,000 sq ft
Added: 04/15/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV24074167
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

***Elegance and Luxury Await You In This French Mediterranean Mansion***Nestled within the embrace of timeless sophistication, this French Mediterranean mansion beckons discerning connoisseurs. Upon entry, its notice how the alluring architectural finesse and meticulous craftsmanship sets this estate apart from the rest.Traverse the driveway, adorned with custom inlays, until you arrive at an oversized gated courtyard. Here, four-car garages stand ready to encase your prized vehicles. Stepping across the threshold of double iron doors, is a grandiose foyer—an opulent space adorned with imported tiles and stone. Custom iron railings guide your gaze upward, where a breathtaking medallion dome ceiling awaits. The archways in every direction invite exploration. The first floor unfolds with a magical cinematic experience. A movie theater and a professional wine room promise entertaining evenings away from the city’s hustle and bustle. For working professionals, a private study awaits—an elegant sanctuary to impress top clients. Wall-to-wall custom wood shelving and a majestic coffered ceiling create an ambiance of timeless refinement. Guests find solace on the first floor, where suite accommodations offer full bathroom and closet. The heart of this home is the chef’s kitchen where culinary artistry takes center stage. Equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and soft water purification systems, this culinary haven seamlessly connects to the inviting family room and dining area. A chic professional bar, a cozy fireplace, and a massive breakfast/buffet island with stone countertops enhance guest entertainment and personal comfort. Ascending the spiral staircase reveals a den and four spacious en-suite bedrooms with bathrooms and walk-in wardrobe closets. The primary suite is a haven within a haven, boasting an open floor plan, a fireplace, a separate sitting area and spa-like bathroom. Lounge in the balcony overlooking the garden and pool during the day or enjoy the cool evening breeze. This French oasis is a one of kind full of customizations tailored to elite and luxury living. Make this your dream home and elevate your lifestyle.

Listed with Mike Chou CalDRE: 01852861 | 626-872-2207, K.W. 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/!

$1,800,000 :: 1570 Poppy Peak Drive, Pasadena CA, 91105

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,010 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,980 sq ft
Added: 04/12/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-17210
Community: Pasadena (SW)
Status: Active

Hidden in Pasadena’s verdant San Rafael Hills, 1570 Poppy Peak Dr is a Modernist treasure designed by renowned architect Robert Cox as his personal residence. A true sanctuary, this 1937 landmark home in the Poppy Peak Historic District offers rare privacy, unparalleled serenity, and immense soul. Evocative of a ryokan in the picturesque Japanese countryside, a towering bamboo forest obscures the house from the street and a lush pathway leads to the front entry. The home’s warm and inviting living spaces are perfectly designed for entertaining and feature fantastic indoor-outdoor flow along with stunning views from numerous glass sliders and floor to ceiling windows. In the stunning library, light pours in through a large skylight overhead and glass doors that open to the beautifully landscaped backyard, where multi-level terraces provide ample room for lounging or hosting amidst exquisite natural beauty. Pick vegetables from the garden, then prepare them in the updated kitchen with striking concrete countertops, custom wood cabinetry, and professional grade appliances. Inspiring mountain vistas and lush greenery greet you every morning from huge windows in the primary suite. Outside, a studio and garage with ADU-approval offer endless possibilities. Here, in your hillside sanctuary, you’re fully immersed in transcendent natural and architectural beauty while being a short drive from Old Town Pasadena, DTLA, Eagle Rock, and the best of city living!

Listed with Evangelyn Lin CalDRE: 01817694 | (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/!

$1,300,000 :: 1200 S 8th Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,770 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,013 sq ft
Added: 04/15/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS24074687
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

Welcome to 1200 S 8th Ave in Arcadia! Here’s a fantastic chance for you to create your dream home or make a smart investment. This delightful home offers comfortable living in a prime location of Arcadia. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this residence provides ample space for families or individuals. Featuring a spacious kitchen with an island that seamlessly flows into the dining room and family room. The dining room offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for enjoying meals together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive celebration.Step into the spacious backyard, an ideal setting for entertaining and family fun. With its prime location near schools, freeways, shopping centers, markets, and dining spots, don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity! Schedule your viewing today – act quickly, as this gem won’t stay on the market for long!

Listed with YE MIN CalDRE: 02056087 | 626-789-0159, Your Home Sold Guaranteed Rlty

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/!

$2,788,000 :: 3310 Yorkshire Road, Pasadena CA, 91107

4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,860 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,401 sq ft
Added: 03/09/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PW24047965
Community: Pasadena (SE)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 4/15/2024 by 7%
Status: Active

Exceptional CHAPMAN WOODS CUL-DE-SAC estate home designed by one of Southern California’s premier architects, Wallace Neff. Constructed in 1932 of superior-quality materials, this home boasts historical and classic features such as original diamond pane leaded glass windows, exposed beam ceilings and a unique tile-faced fireplace in the living room and exposed beam ceiling in the formal dining room. Savor the luxurious, THREE LARGE BEDROOMS each with their own connecting bathrooms. Each of these huge bedrooms enjoys a walk-in closet and additional storage. Being a rare, architecturally significant home, there are many rooms to enjoy all on one, single level: living room, den, butler’s pantry, formal dining room, kitchen command center, and a massive family room currently being utilized as an executive in-home office (could be a 4th bedroom). There are several access doors that lead to the hacienda-like courtyard with brick patio, in-ground firepit and a large garden fountain. The manicured grounds are spectacular with two lawns, a multitude of flowering bushes and a prolific lemon tree. Entertain elegantly around the activity/sport-depth salt water swimming pool and enjoy lawn games on the additional 10,702 sqft parcel of land (sqft not included in the total listed in the MLS/tax records of subject property). Be sure to consider the hardwood flooring, charming bright kitchen with breakfast nook, elite stainless steel appliances, granite counters, abundant cabinetry and French doors to the poolside balcony and entertainment courtyard. In addition, enjoy extras such as the spacious laundry room located near the kitchen, an additional 1/2 bath and venture downstairs into the large finished basement with ample storage and workout area. Consider that there is abundant parking for 2 cars inside the finished garage as well as 3-4 cars in the driveway & cul-de-sac street. Close to Cal Tech, Pasadena City College, The Huntington Library and Art Museum and numerous cultural hubs, restaurants and shopping that Pasadena is known for.

Listed with Carla Coggins CalDRE: 00967595 | 562-905-6033, T.N.G. Real Estate Consultants

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/!

$3,430,000 :: 2157 Homet Road, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,939 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,708 sq ft
Added: 03/08/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS24043047
Community: San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 4/15/2024 by 4%
Status: Active

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and style in this upgraded 4-bed, 3.5-bath home, located in desirable location just north of Huntington Drive. Comes with a brand new 380 square feet ADU scheduled for completion in March 2024. Studio Style with new paint, flooring, electrical, kitchen, shower and mini-split AC. Total square footage of both main house and ADU is 3939 sqft (3559 sq.ft from tax record + 380 sq.ft ADU). There’s also a 225 sq.ft. Storage/Pool house, though not included in the total footage The main house was painted inside and out, with a new master suite bathroom and a pool heater. Extensively renovated in 2016, featuring LED Light fixture, NEW hardwood floors, NEW copper plumbing, and double-paned glass casement windows. Kitchen comes with Viking Professional stainless steel appliances and granite counters.The layout offers a bedroom and 1.5 baths on the first floor, while the second floor has 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. The master bedroom connects to a balcony for a cozy retreat. An enclosed den offers flexibility for a home gym or game room.

Listed with MAN WOO CalDRE: 01888854 | 626-286-3838, EASTAR 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/!

$3,380,000 :: 1241 Winston Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,284 sq ft
Lot Size: 25,261 sq ft
Added: 04/15/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-17237
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Sited on a landscaped knoll north of Huntington Drive, this single level traditional property was built in 1942 and maintains its original character and privacy. A gently meandering garden walk with broad tread flagstone steps provides a gradual approach to the gracious front entrance. A generous foyer opens to the public rooms on the left and the bedroom wing on the right. A grand living room is spacious with handsome fireplace and picture windows overlooking the gardens. An inviting library with fireplace is adjacent, also with garden view picture windows. The formal dining room has French doors to a lovely patio on one side and a large picture window with garden fountain views on the other. A breakfast room lined with china cabinets introduces the convenient kitchen, in original condition, with electric range, refrigerator, ample cabinetry and separate laundry room beyond. An attractive corridor with a door to a patio and bright windows is the access to the bedrooms in the bedroom wing. The first bedroom in line is currently being used as an office. A large, shared bath separates the first bedroom from the primary which has attractive corner windows. One additional bedroom with bath en suite completes this wing. The property has abundant windows with views of the garden and mature plantings. A 2 bedroom, 1 bath guest house in 602 square feet is located at the back of the garden above the 885 square foot 4 car garage, accessed by a public alley off Kenilworth Avenue. There is a 231 square foot basement with interior access and a 218 square foot exterior basement room. With award winning San Marino Schools and a premier location, this first time on the market in 56 years residence is ready for a new chapter. Property sold ‘as is.’

Listed with Catherine Cheney CalDRE: 01173415 | (626) 233-2938, 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/!

$1,500,000 :: 1323 Indiana Avenue, South Pasadena CA, 91030

2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,778 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,290 sq ft
Added: 04/14/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-17236
Community: So. Pasadena
Status: Active

South Pasadena home with gorgeous views of the San Gabriel Mountains. It offers a perfect blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the warmth of original hardwood floors, with great potential to be refinished into gleaming floors. The Living room offers a cozy fireplace, huge picturesque windows and large French doors open to a substantial deck. The remodeled kitchen is functional and practical, boasting sleek countertops, stainless steel appliances, ample storage space and a center island ideal for gourmet cooking. Both bedrooms are located on the second level with tree top views and adjacent to a remodeled full bath. An additional room provides versatility for a home office, gym, or additional living area. Step outside to discover the enchanting exterior features, including three outdoor patios and balcony that invite you to enjoy the breathtaking mountain views. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply unwinding in the fresh air, these outdoor spaces provide the perfect backdrop for every occasion. Located in a desirable neighborhood, this home is close to South Pasadena Farmer’s Market, Orange Grove Park and the Gold Line, offering a vibrant and convenient lifestyle. Please note this property is situated in an area with blue ribbon schools, making it an ideal choice for those seeking top-tier education opportunities. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this South Pasadena view home your own.

Listed with Michele Downing CalDRE: 01046965 | (626) 523-6939, 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/!

$2,215,000 :: 1519 Vista Lane, Pasadena CA, 91103

3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,020 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,963 sq ft
Added: 03/10/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-16809
Community: Pasadena (NW)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 4/15/2024 by 3%
Status: Active

Back on the Market – Introducing a spectacular Pasadena home in the prestigious Linda Vista neighborhood of Pasadena. This stunning fully renovated property offers the perfect blend of luxury and functionality, boasting three bedrooms and four baths. Experience the beauty of a fully open floor plan that seamlessly connects the living room, dining room, and gourmet kitchen. The home measures approximately 2,020 square feet and sits on a 9,961 square foot lot. Entertain in style with high-end Viking appliances, a large island with quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, a floor-to-ceiling built-in wine storage refrigerator, and ample space for a breakfast nook. Rest easy under a brand-new lifetime presidential roof, and modern upgrades such as updated plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems. The primary bedroom features vaulted ceilings and an elegant electric fireplace, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Indulge in the primary bath’s wet room with a shower and soaking tub, dual sinks, and heated floors for the ultimate relaxation. Discover one more en suite bedroom and a third bedroom, offering versatility and comfort. All landscaping is brand new and thoughtfully designed, complete with outdoor lighting. The tiered backyard boasts a soothing fountain and an upper deck with a charming pergola, perfect for outdoor gatherings. This home is not just a property; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Amazing opportunity to own this exquisite piece of Linda Vista.

Listed with Carla Buigues CalDRE: 01160323 | (626) 664-4444, 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/!

$2,888,000 :: 1610 Mayflower Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

6 beds, 7 baths
Home size: 6,093 sq ft
Lot Size: 14,685 sq ft
Added: 04/15/24, Last Updated: 04/15/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR24054078
Community: Arcadia
Status: Active

Nestled in the Mayflower Village area of Arcadia and constructed in 2016, this home offers the esteemed, award winning Arcadia Schools via resolution 881. This newer home is not only one of the largest houses and lot in the area, but it is also one of the lowest price homes per square feet. This remarkable Mediterranean-style residence has been recently remodeled. Beyond the secure gates this meticulously maintained oasis boasts 6 en-suites, 7 bathrooms in a generous 6,093 sq. ft. of living space. The sprawling, level lot spans 14,685 sq. ft. Best value in Arcadia with a hard to find pool sized lot. Upon entry, you are greeted by a two story foyer ushering you into sophisticated living spaces beyond: a formal living room, complemented by a fireplace, which seamlessly transitions into the elegant dining room, all setting the stage for memorable gatherings. The gourmet kitchen, a culinary masterpiece, boasts a delightful island, breakfast bar, an eat-in area, and a butler’s pantry. This perfect setup is further augmented by a secondary kitchen for everyday culinary endeavors. Entertain in the adjoining family room, featuring a delightful wet bar, wine fridge and access to the enchanting covered patio, where the expansive backyard beckons with its lush landscaping. Ideal for al fresco dining and outdoor relaxation. Designed for entertaining and relaxation, this home offers a dedicated movie theater with padded walls, an executive-style office, a convenient secondary primary bedroom with a lavish full bathroom on the main level, in addition to an additional en-suite bedroom. A spacious laundry room, with ample storage, and a guest powder room complete the main level. Upstairs there’s a spacious loft area, a luxurious primary suite boasting a separate sitting area, scenic balcony with mountain views, a generous walk-in closet, and an opulent bathroom equipped with a spa tub, steam shower, and dual vanity sinks. Three additional en-suites, each with private bathrooms, offer comfort and privacy for family and guests alike. Notable features include an electric security gate, dual HVAC system with new thermostats, multiple chandeliers, designer coved ceilings, newly installed hardwood flooring, and a 3-car attached garage with new cabinets and direct home access. The property is equipped with a full security system comprising 7 cameras for added peace of mind. Experience luxury living at its finest, schedule your visit and make this exceptional residence your own.

Listed with Pauline Cheng CalDRE: 00993691 | 626-278-4587, 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/!

(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