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

$3,980,000 :: 980 El Campo Drive, Pasadena CA, 91107

5 beds, 4.25 baths
Home size: 4,707 sq ft
Lot Size: 20,687 sq ft
Added: 06/16/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22777
Community: 648 – Pasadena (SE)
Status: Active

With its gorgeous Monterey Colonial architecture, half-acre of park-like grounds, and access to San Marino’s award-winning schools, 980 El Campo Dr has everything you need for your ‘happily ever after.’ This exceptional home rests on a quiet, picturesque street and begins with a large, gated front lawn ideal for running, playing, and games of catch. Inside, rich mahogany floors and abundant natural light create a warm, inviting ambiance. When entertaining, the formal living room offers an elegant setting for guests and opens to a radiant sunroom complete with a wet bar. As the day’s fading light casts a golden glow through its windows, there’s no better place to enjoy a nice glass of wine. For casual, day-to-day enjoyment, the expansive chef’s kitchen and family room combine to create the heart of the home. Boasting a professional-range, large island with prep sink, and double-oven, you’ll savor your time here, whether cooking a holiday feast or a simple pancake brunch. French doors open to the serene, private backyard designed for making unforgettable memories together. Here you’ll find wonderful amenities including multiple al fresco dining spaces, a built-in kitchen with grill, and a grassy lawn at the rear. It’s easy to imagine relaxing with friends in the 445 sqft pool house as laughter and shouts of ‘Marco!’ and ‘Polo!’ echo from the sparkling pool and spa. Or use this space as the perfect accommodations for visiting loved ones. Completing the home, four spacious bedrooms rest upstairs. Two share a Jack & Jill bath while the other two feature en suites. Particularly luxurious, the primary includes a soaring cathedral ceiling, fireplace, romantic Juliet balcony, and a decadent bath with a soaking tub. Truly the complete package, 980 El Campo Drive is the slice of paradise you’ve been seeking for life’s next chapter.

Listed with Evangelyn Lin | 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/!

$2,749,000 :: 232 Glen Summer Road, Pasadena CA, 91105

4 beds, 2.5 baths
Home size: 2,596 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,247 sq ft
Added: 06/15/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22756
Community: 647 – Pasadena (SW)
Status: Active

Nestled on one of the most coveted streets in the San Rafael Flats, this beautiful Colonial residence blends timeless architecture with modern refinement. Extensively remodeled and updated in 2019, the home features gleaming oak hardwood floors, classic crown moldings, recessed lighting, and thoughtful architectural details that honor its heritage. At the heart of the home lies an inviting kitchen-family room combination designed for both everyday living and gracious entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is outfitted with Viking appliances, quartz countertops, a generous center island with a breakfast bar, and a charming butler’s pantry offering lighted glass cabinetry, a bar sink, and a beverage refrigerator.The family room is framed by a wall of paned glass and elegant French doors that open to an expansive herringbone brick patio and a meticulously landscaped rear yard–ideal for seamless indoor-outdoor gatherings.Upstairs, four spacious bedrooms include a serene primary suite featuring French doors that open to a full-width balcony overlooking the gardens. The luxurious en suite bath offers an oversized soaking tub, a large walk-in shower, dual sinks, marble tile, and quartz countertops–creating a spa-like retreat.The grounds, both front and rear, evoke the charm of an English garden with manicured boxwood hedges, graceful gravel pathways, and sculpted topiary vines–an idyllic setting of beauty and tranquility.

Listed with Vicky Botsford | 626-705-6207, 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/!

$1,249,000 :: 508 Prescott Street, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 2.25 baths
Home size: 1,504 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,803 sq ft
Added: 06/11/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PF25128946
Community: 645 – Pasadena (NW)
Status: Active

Welcome to this charming 1923 Bungalow-style home located on a picturesque, tree-lined street in the desirable Craftsman Heights neighborhood of Pasadena which has been designated as a landmark district. Lovingly maintained with many original details preserved, this home offers warmth, character, and modern updates throughout. Step into the inviting living room featuring a cozy fireplace, then flow into the spacious dining area that opens to a well-appointed kitchen with stainless steel appliances and ample cabinetry for storage and a breakfast bar. There is also a charming side patio off the kitchen. This home offers three bedrooms, including a generous primary suite with direct access to the quaint backyard, a walk-in closet, and a luxurious bathroom with dual sinks, a jetted tub, and a separate stand-alone shower. Two additional bedrooms, include one with an en-suite ¾ bathroom, one with access to a patio and the other has access to the backyard. Also, a conveniently located powder room is available for guests. The detached one-car garage has been expanded by approx. 417 sq. ft. of finished space with a ¾ bathroom, wood-beamed ceilings, and two mini-split systems. This versatile area offers great potential as an ADU, home office, gym, or entertainment room. Notable features include: Updated electrical and copper plumbing, recently replaced water supply line, new gate, hardwood floors throughout, drought-tolerant landscaping, parking for multiple vehicles, cellar/basement, and Ecobee thermostat, 240V EV charger and so much more. All of this is ideally located near Old Town Pasadena, The Rose Bowl, Washington Park, Brookside Country Club, and many of Pasadena’s most beloved destinations.

Listed with Seta Chorbajian | 626-656-3255, 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/!

$1,698,000 :: 1419 S 4th Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,595 sq ft
Lot Size: 15,146 sq ft
Added: 06/15/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25130304
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Charming Arcadia Home on Expansive Lot

Welcome to this beautifully maintained home nestled in the heart of Arcadia, offering timeless character and modern comforts on a generously sized lot. With three spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms, this property blends classic details with thoughtful updates throughout.

Step into the inviting living room, complete with elegant plantation shutters and rich hardwood floors, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. The formal dining room flows seamlessly into the updated kitchen, making mealtime gatherings a delight. A cozy family room with a classic brick fireplace and a large picture window invites warmth and natural light into the home.

The primary suite is a private retreat, featuring double closets and ample space for comfort. Enjoy year-round comfort with central air and heat.

Outdoors, a covered patio with a built-in barbecue is perfect for entertaining or quiet evenings at home. The expansive backyard also includes fruit trees, a detached back house, bath and sauna and an oversized two-car garage, providing plenty of storage and additional living or workspace potential.

Located in the sought-after Arcadia school district, this home offers a rare combination of charm, functionality, and location. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of Arcadia history!

Listed with Pamela DelRey CalDRE: S | 626-358-4560, Art Del Rey 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/!

$4,295,000 :: 320 N San Rafael Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91105

4 beds, 3.75 baths
Home size: 4,540 sq ft
Lot Size: 76,753 sq ft
Added: 05/14/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22761
Community: 645 – Pasadena (NW)
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active

Nestled on 1.76 private acres above the Arroyo Seco, this exceptional gated estate in Pasadena offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains. This elegant two-story Colonial Revival was designed by architect Y. W. Nibecker in 1948 and offers a timeless blend of architectural grace and thoughtful modern updates. Designed for elegant living and effortless entertaining, the home features a separate casita and a floor plan that flows seamlessly from room to room. Through the formal entry is a gracious living room that sits just off the entry, showcasing a double-sided fireplace, French doors to the backyard, and expansive views of the natural landscape. Next to it, the welcoming family room features the other side of the fireplace, built-in shelving and sweeping vistas–perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. Adjacent to the living room, the formal dining room is a serene setting for entertaining, complete with windows showcasing the captivating views. The spacious, beautifully remodeled kitchen has been tastefully updated with a mix of granite and quartz countertops and ample cabinetry, with another set of French doors leading to the backyard. Off the kitchen, a laundry room, a guest suite with a private bath, and access to the attached three-car garage offer convenience and flexibility. Upstairs, the primary suite provides unobstructed views and has a private en suite bath. Two additional bedrooms and a bath complete the upper level, offering ample space. Wood floors flow throughout most of the home, adding warmth and cohesion. The separate casita is attached to the garage and features its own private entrance and bath, offering an ideal space for guests, a home office, or creative studio. Outside, the grounds are a tranquil retreat. Mature trees, formal gardens, and beautiful landscaping create a peaceful oasis, while the covered rear terrace, patios, and a combination putting green and bocce ball court provide multiple spaces to relax and entertain. The expansive gated driveway and enclosed pool area with loggia complete this truly special property–one that combines natural beauty, architectural heritage, and a rare sense of seclusion just minutes from all that Pasadena has to offer.

Listed with Kathy Seuylemezian CalDRE: N | 818-378-7928, 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/!

$2,158,000 :: 1526 S 2nd Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,266 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,715 sq ft
Added: 05/21/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25122406
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home located in the heart of Arcadia. Step into a grand formal foyer with soaring ceilings that lead into a spacious and light-filled living room and adjacent dining area””perfect for entertaining. The large kitchen features a center island and seamlessly opens to the inviting family room, where French doors provide direct access to a well-kept backyard ideal for outdoor relaxation. A convenient downstairs suite offers flexibility for guests or multi-generational living. Upstairs, the expansive master bedroom boasts a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Another generously sized bedroom shares a full bath, providing comfort and privacy for the whole family. Additional highlights include an attached 3-car garage, circular driveway for ample parking, and a thoughtfully designed layout perfect for modern living. Located near top Arcadia schools, parks, and shopping. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity!

Listed with LEI SHEN CalDRE: S | 626-328-9331, 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/!

$1,180,000 :: 400 N Sunnyslope Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91107

2 beds, 1.75 baths
Home size: 1,460 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,019 sq ft
Added: 06/16/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22767
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

This beautifully maintained home, on the market for the first time in over 30 years, showcases pride of ownership and thoughtful renovations. With two bedrooms and two baths, this inviting space features a living room complete with a cozy fireplace and bay window, all enhanced by gleaming hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen is truly a chef’s dream, boasting a generous 8’4′ island perfect for food preparation, gatherings, and entertaining, along with a 6-burner stove. Custom-made cabinets and a pantry offer excellent storage solutions. Both bathrooms have been tastefully remodeled, featuring custom vanities and luxurious marble tiles. The primary bedroom provides a serene retreat with its en-suite bathroom and high ceilings. French doors open to a beautifully landscaped backyard, inviting you to unwind by the serene water fountain on the paver patio. The spacious garage is equipped with built-in storage, and a custom gate ensures privacy in the fenced backyard. Outstanding updates include copper plumbing, updated electrical, double-paned windows, and a newer roof. This energy-efficient home features a tankless water heater, a 2020 HVAC system, and fully paid solar panels installed in 2019. A EV charging outlet is conveniently located on driveway.Situated in the charming Daisy Villa neighborhood, this home is conveniently located near a dog park, pickleball courts, a farmer’s market, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, private and public schools, and local shopping options. The annual Rose Parade just a short walk away, making it an ideal location for modern living.

Listed with Monica Hsu CalDRE: N | 626-926-1385, 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/!

$2,898,000 :: 2745 Carlaris Road, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,878 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,641 sq ft
Added: 06/16/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22768
Community: 655 – San Marino
Status: Active

Step into the timeless elegance of this exquisitely restored 1931 Spanish Revival home, nestled on one of the most desirable streets in the Mission District of San Marino. Lovingly restored by its current owners, only the third stewards of this exceptional property, every inch has been thoughtfully updated to honor its rich architectural heritage while embracing the needs of modern living. With 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a dedicated office, the home’s versatile floor plan is ideal for everyday comfort and entertaining. Beyond the striking curb appeal lies a charming enclosed courtyard. Enter through a gracious foyer adorned with a meticulously restored magnesite entry and staircase, setting the tone for the artistry and craftsmanship found throughout. The dramatic living room features soaring beamed ceilings, an original fireplace, and a stunning picture window framed by intricate wrought iron, offering views of the front courtyard. Adjacent, the office is a sanctuary of its own, with custom built-in bookcases and chapel-inspired doors. Host in style in the formal dining room beneath a hand-stenciled ceiling and an original wrought iron chandelier. The breakfast room, drenched in natural light, has French doors that open to the backyard. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, beautifully updated with stone countertops, tile backsplash, double ovens, gas cooktop, cocktail sink, wine fridge, and abundant storage. Hidden laundry cabinets offer added convenience. Downstairs, a guest bedroom and an adjacent vintage-tiled bath offer privacy and charm. Upstairs, you’ll find 3 additional bedrooms and 2 full baths, including a luxurious primary suite complete with a dressing room and private balcony. The show-stopping 2024-renovated primary bathroom features a rare Gladding McBean swan tile mural, a porcelain cast iron tub, stall shower, and period-inspired jade green pedestal sink and toilet. This home has been meticulously updated over the past two decades, including new HVAC (2022), new roof (2023), refinished hardwood floors, rebuilt deck, mostly copper plumbing, and replica custom windows. Most of the original light fixtures and hardware remain intact, many showcasing exquisite Art Deco details. A California basement, detached 2-car garage, and a private backyard with tall hedges and a mature magnolia tree complete the package. This property is a rare architectural find in a quiet neighborhood.

Listed with Sarah Rogers | 626-390-0511, 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/!

$1,888,100 :: 250 S Berkeley Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91107

5 beds, 1.75 baths
Home size: 2,094 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,184 sq ft
Added: 05/13/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22212
Community: 648 – Pasadena (SE)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/30/2025 by 9%
Status: Active

A wonderful Traditional Cape Cod home in a prime location nestled on a picturesque street in one of Pasadena’s most coveted neighborhoods. This spacious single level residence offers timeless elegance and comfort just minutes from Cal Tech, The Huntington Library, Art Museum & Botanical Gardens, shopping & dining along Lake Avenue. Boasting five generously sized bedrooms and two well-appointed bathrooms (1 full and 1 three quarter), the home features a desirable central hall floor plan that seamlessly connects the living spaces. The sun drenched living room is a warm and inviting space, complete with a wood burning fireplace and expansive windows that fill the room with natural light. Entertain guests in the formal dining room, adorned with a stunning chandelier and framed by two large windows. The kitchen offers classic- wood cabinetry, granite countertops and backsplash, modern appliances and a convenient breakfast bar that opens into a breakfast room featuring charming built-in shelves & cabinetry. Adjacent to the kitchen is a laundry room with washer & dryer hookups, access to the California basement and an exterior door to the driveway. Primary bedroom is spacious enough to accommodate a king-sized bed with additional furnishings and includes a walk-in closet. A secondary bedroom with the convenience of an ensuite three quarter bath, while a full bathroom serves the additional bedrooms. The fourth and fifth bedrooms are situated at the rear of the home, offering peaceful backyard views-perfect for guests or home office. Additional highlights include central air and forced air heating system throughout. There is a second rear exit leading to a covered patio , backyard with a grassy area and mature fruit trees. (Orange & Tangerine ). Ideal for entertaining or relaxing! The detached two car oversized garage is located at the rear of the property, is complemented by an extended driveway with ample parking for multiple vehicles. This rare gem offers comfort, space and an unbeatable location-truly a special opportunity to own a home that blends classic details with everyday functionality. Don’t miss your chance to see this Pasadena treasure!

Listed with Barbara Campanella CalDRE: S | 626-523-2826, 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/!

$2,600,000 :: 1841 Rose Villa Street, Pasadena CA, 91107

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,241 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,586 sq ft
Added: 06/09/25, Last Updated: 06/16/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 25549761
Community: 648 – Pasadena (SE)
Status: Active

Step through lush-lined iron gates into a magical garden that leads to a covered porch, perfect for watching hummingbirds while enjoying your morning coffee or tea. A charming Spanish Mediterranean style home, fully remodeled from floor to ceiling for modern living. A Chef’s kitchen offers Viking appliances and custom granite countertops perfect for preparing gourmet meals. Inside, a storybook Batchelder fireplace anchors the living room with hand-glazed tiles and warm hardwood floors, a homage to Pasadena’s Arts & Crafts heritage. Three generous bedrooms line a long hallway, while an oversized den stretches toward the outdoors. Floor-to-ceiling glass accordion sliders disappear to reveal an expansive backyard centered around a majestic olive tree that feels as old as the San Gabriel Mountains. Here, manicured gardens featuring Apricot, Meyer Lemon, Lime, Mandarin Orange trees, and – of course, roses – give way to a shimmering saltwater pool and a cabana with its own full bath, ideal for guest quarters, a studio, or effortless poolside entertaining. From fireside evenings and weekend swim parties to tranquil mornings under the olive’s silvery canopy, 1841 Rose Villa offers the space to gather, recharge, and savor California living at its most magical. Mere blocks to premium schools, The Huntington Library and Gardens, and trendy South Lake Avenue shops and restaurants.

Listed with Victoria Massengale | 323-640-2924, 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/!

(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