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

$1,998,000 :: 631 W Camino Real Real, Arcadia CA, 91007

4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,235 sq ft
Lot Size: 22,687 sq ft
Added: 09/09/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR25214736
Community: 605 – Arcadia
The price of this listing was last reduced on 11/11/2025 by 9%
Status: Active

Price Adjustment!

Lot Size, Lot Size, Lot Size!

Endless potential awaits with this rare offering in Arcadia. Sitting on an expansive 22,688 sq. ft. flat lot, this 4-bedroom, 3-bath home spans 3,235 sq. ft. and provides the perfect canvas for your vision. While the home itself is ready for updating, the true value lies in the land – with ample space to design and create something extraordinary.

Imagine building a modern estate, a timeless retreat, or even a multi-generational compound. The possibilities are endless: add a pool, pickleball or sports court, putting green, or a full outdoor entertainment area with a BBQ island – there’s room for it all.

Located in one of Arcadia’s most desirable neighborhoods, you’ll enjoy top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and the prestige the community is known for. This property invites you to reimagine, redesign, and breathe new life into a home that can be cherished for generations to come.

Listed with Nathalie Marles CalDRE: W | 818-679-5369, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crest 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/!

$2,580,000 :: 77 W Naomi Ave, Arcadia CA, 91007

4 beds, 4.5 baths
Home size: 3,579 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,576 sq ft
Added: 11/11/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25258554
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Welcome to 77 W Naomi Ave, a beautifully maintained two-story residence located in the heart of Arcadia. This home offers 4 spacious bedrooms with 4.5 bathrooms, plus an additional versatile downstairs room that can serve as a 5th bedroom or private office, making it ideal for multi-generational living or working from home. A bright upstairs loft provides extra space for a study area, media room, or playroom. Step inside to soaring ceilings, elegant archways, and abundant natural light. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the formal living room, dining area, and family room, creating an inviting setting for both everyday living and entertaining. The chef’s kitchen features modern finishes, ample cabinetry, and direct views into the lush backyard. Upstairs, the generously sized primary suite offers a walk-in closet and en-suite bath, while the additional bedrooms provide comfort and privacy for family and guests. Enjoy Southern California living at its best in the expansive backyard, complete with mature landscaping, a wide lawn, and plenty of room for outdoor dining or gatherings. The property also includes a two-car garage and a long driveway with extra parking. Situated in a quiet neighborhood within the award-winning Arcadia Unified School District, just moments away from Arcadia High School, Santa Anita Park, and the Santa Anita Golf Course, and USC Arcadia Hospital .

Listed with GUANGRONG ZUO CalDRE: W | 626-229-2200, 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/!

$1,299,900 :: 1496 Las Lunas Street, Pasadena CA, 91106

3 beds, 1.5 baths
Home size: 1,605 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,003 sq ft
Added: 08/26/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-23838
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/13/2025 by 7%
Status: Active

This Pasadena Craftsman home sits on a quiet, tree-lined street with beautiful views of the San Gabriel Mountains, best enjoyed from the spacious front porch or upstairs windows. Inside, a large fireplace anchors the living room, flowing into a separate dining room, a bright eat-in kitchen, and a convenient laundry room. Classic details like pocket doors, hardwood floors, and wainscoting add timeless charm throughout the home, while modern upgrades such as ductless heating and air conditioning, updated appliances, and an EV charger provide for year round comfort. The peaceful backyard provides the perfect spot to relax, entertain, or garden. With close proximity to Old Town Pasadena, the South Lake shopping district, and major transportation, this home combines historic character with modern amenities–an opportunity to own a truly special piece of Pasadena.

Listed with Matthew Helganz | 626-354-2813, Meridian Capital 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/!

$949,000 :: 65 San Marino Circle, Rancho Mirage CA, 92270

5 beds, 2.75 baths
Home size: 2,899 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,762 sq ft
Added: 10/09/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 219136670DA
Community: 321 – Rancho Mirage
Tract: San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 11/11/2025 by 2%
Status: Active

Resort-style living awaits in Rancho Mirage. This beautifully appointed five-bedroom home, including a detached one-bedroom casita, offers effortless indoor-outdoor living with a private pool, spa, and outdoor barbecue area. Located behind the gates of San Marino, residents enjoy pickleball and tennis courts, a community pool & spa and a serene desert setting just minutes from world-class golf, dining and the airport. Welcome to 65 San Marino Circle, an elegant desert retreat located within the private gates of San Marino, one of Rancho Mirage’s most charming communities. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the Coachella Valley, this residence captures the essence of resort living with generous indoor-outdoor spaces, a detached guest casita, and a backdrop of palm-framed skies. Designed for both relaxation and entertaining, the home features 5 bedrooms (one is currently an office) and 4.5 baths, including a beautifully appointed one-bedroom, one-bath detached casitaa”ideal for guests or extended family. The main residence welcomes you with light-filled interiors, soaring ceilings, and open living and dining spaces that seamlessly flow toward the outdoors. A spacious kitchen anchors the home with granite countertops, a central island, ample cabinetry, and stainless-steel appliances, connecting easily to the breakfast bar and dining room with fireplace for casual or formal gatherings. The primary suite offers a serene escape with pool views, direct patio access, and a luxurious remodeled bath complete with dual vanities, walk-in shower and huge closet. Secondary bedrooms are generously sized, providing comfort and flexibility for family, guests, or creative spaces. Step outside and discover your private desert sanctuarya”a resort-style yard designed for year-round enjoyment. A sparkling pool & spa invite leisurely afternoons beneath the sun, while the built-in barbecue and shaded patio area create the perfect setting for alfresco entertaining. Mature landscaping and swaying palms frame the outdoor spaces, enhancing both privacy and natural beauty. Residents of San Marino enjoy a low-density, tranquil setting complemented by community amenities that include a large pool and spa, pickleball courts, and tennis courts. Located just minutes from world-class golf courses, fine dining, airport and the Eisenhower Medical Center, this home offers an exceptional blend of comfort & convenience.

Listed with Bespoke Real Estate Group | 760-408-2965, Equity Union

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/!

$1,250,000 :: 1544 La Loma Road, Pasadena CA, 91105

3 beds, 1.75 baths
Home size: 1,504 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,567 sq ft
Added: 10/31/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-24899
Community: 647 – Pasadena (SW)
Status: Active

Welcome to 1544 La Loma Road-a thoughtfully updated home surrounded by lush natural beauty and towering trees in picturesque San Rafael Hills. Abundant light, soaring ceilings, and multiple areas for outdoor enjoyment create an environment that invites joyful entertaining and everyday serenity. On the entry level, find an ensuite bedroom along with access to the finished 2-car garage. Upstairs, a relaxed ambiance fills the open-concept living room and kitchen, enhanced by hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, and tranquil treetop views. A front-facing balcony spans the living area, offering extended room for lounging outside while looking out to the magnificent San Gabriel Mountains. Back inside, the well-appointed kitchen includes stainless-steel appliances, ample storage, a dining area, and a breakfast bar topped with granite counters. Separated by a hallway, two generous and cheerful bedrooms share a full bathroom and feature cedar-lined custom closets. Completing the home, a private back patio is accessed via glass doors in the kitchen. This secluded outdoor retreat invites you to enjoy alfresco dining, unwinding in the jacuzzi, or simply relaxing with a good book on a peaceful afternoon. Exceptionally located within 1 mile of the top-ranked San Rafael Elementary School, the San Rafael Branch Library, and San Rafael Park–plus nestled amid Pasadena’s famous ‘Secret Stairs. With proximity to the best of Pasadena and gorgeous natural surroundings, you’ve found a place that truly feels like home.

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/!

$1,200,000 :: 184 S Altadena Drive, Pasadena CA, 91107

4 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,378 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,536 sq ft
Added: 06/30/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25146248
Community: 648 – Pasadena (SE)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 11/11/2025 by 24%
Status: Active

Priced to sell! Situated in the heart of Pasadena, this stunning estate features a newly built home (2015) and garage (2014) with nearly everything updated.

Inside, the home boasts Mahogany hardwood floors, natural travertine stone, decorative alcove ceilings, and aluminum-framed windows with wood cladding. Additional premium finishes include Knotty Alder interior doors, lightweight concrete roof tiles, and a spacious jacuzzi. The ground level has a living room, a family room, one bedroom suit, another bedroom and an additional bathroom. Upstairs has master bedroom suit and an additional junior bedroom suit. Modern upgrades include a tankless water heater, automatic sprinkler/drip irrigation systems, and a detached two-car garage with ceiling fan, laundry hook-ups, and a permitted half bathroom””ideal for a potential ADU conversion. A standout feature is the expansive, one-of-a-kind deck on second floor, perfect for entertaining and offering breathtaking mountain views. A small basement provides an ideal space for wine storage.

Enjoy a prime location close to Caltech, PCC, Vons, CVS, Gold’s Gym, Pasadena Library, and the Rose Parade route.

Listed with Sunyoung McDermott CalDRE: S | 626-807-0108, 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/!

$1,100,000 :: 4954 Collis Avenue, South Pasadena CA, 91030

2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 924 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,471 sq ft
Added: 09/22/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25257347
Community: 658 – So. Pasadena
Status: Active

Timeless charm meets modern comfort in this South Pasadena residence. Featuring 2 bedrooms and 1 baths across 924 sq ft, this home has been lovingly cared for and thoughtfully upgraded with a newly remodeled kitchen, new exterior stucco and interior paint. The property also features a detached 400 sq ft converted garage ADU with 1 bed, 1 bath and kitchen, ideal for guests, a home office, or supplemental rental income. Situated on a 7,470 sq ft lot with room to grow, this property rests on a welcoming, tree-lined street in one of Southern California’s most sought-after communities, served by the award-winning South Pasadena Unified School District. Enjoy a coveted location just moments from the Mission & Fair Oaks shopping district, Arroyo Seco’s recreation amenities, and convenient access to Downtown LA and Old Town Pasadena.

Listed with FUNGYUAN WU | 626-461-2128, Partner 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/!

$1,595,000 :: 1218 Ewell Ln, Arcadia CA, 91007

4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,027 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,477 sq ft
Added: 11/11/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV25255460
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Single-story pool home with a spacious grassy front yard, manicured shade tree and planters, and a gated, covered front courtyard leading to double entry doors. The entryway opens to a generous living room where a wide sliding door forms a glass wall to the backyard and pool and an adjacent dining room off the entry enjoys a picture window to the front yard. The kitchen features classic white cabinetry, tiled floors and countertops, black appliances, and a peninsula and it opens to the family room. The family room offers an arched brick fireplace and a second slider to the patio and backyard. Down the hall, the primary bedroom offers a ceiling fan, its own slider to the backyard, and an ensuite bath with a vanity counter, dual sinks, a walk-in shower, and a walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms are served by a hall bath with a walk-in shower. The attached two-car garage provides abundant storage cabinetry and an insulated door. A permitted detached structure, currently used as an office, sits just steps from the house and includes a vaulted ceiling and a full wall of closets; per seller, it was part of the original build and functioned as the fourth bedroom (buyer to verify). The backyard is designed for entertaining with a pool and spa, concrete perimeter decking, a wide covered patio, tropical-inspired landscaping, St. Augustine lawn, and block perimeter walls. Arcadia Unified School District.

Listed with Nicholas Abbadessa | 909-292-7888, RE/MAX MASTERS 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/!

$2,499,000 :: 1212 Sierra Madre Boulevard, San Marino CA, 91108

3 beds, 2.25 baths
Home size: 2,885 sq ft
Lot Size: 17,494 sq ft
Added: 11/11/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-24893
Community: 655 – San Marino
Status: Active

Nestled in prestigious North San Marino, this south-facing residence offers exceptional privacy, refined craftsmanship, and the timeless charm that defines the area’s most desirable homes. Set behind exclusive gates, the property is introduced by mature landscaping, including rose gardens, sculpted olive trees, citrus varieties, crepe myrtles, and flowering shrubs framing an expansive front porch and flagstone patio ideal for relaxed outdoor living.Inside, the home unfolds with effortless sophistication. The grand living room features a striking fireplace and dramatic picture windows overlooking the verdant backyard. The beautifully updated kitchen offers granite countertops, travertine backsplash, recessed lighting, and premium stainless-steel appliances. A bright breakfast room with custom cabinetry and plantation shutters provides a peaceful space to enjoy morning coffee with views of the gardens.The spacious formal dining room is adorned with an elegant chandelier, designer sconces, and French-style plantation doors. The stately family room includes a brick fireplace, custom built-ins, and garden views. Adjacent is a generous laundry room with granite counters, extensive storage, and an upgraded powder room.The primary suite is a serene retreat with dual oversized closets, windows on three sides, and a private office perfect for reading or quiet work. The luxurious updated bath features a frameless glass shower with niche, quartz-topped cabinetry, a tub, and upgraded windows. Two additional bedrooms–one with a brick fireplace and built-ins–overlook the manicured backyard and share a renovated hallway bath with frameless shower, quartz counters, and recessed lighting.An approximately 400 sq ft unfinished attic offers excellent potential for expansion, whether as a studio, playroom, or guest space. Additional highlights include fresh interior paint, new lighting, and plantation shutters throughout. A three-car garage topped with a charming cupola and dog-shaped weathervane, along with a large driveway accommodating up to seven cars, makes this property ideal for car enthusiasts.Outdoors, enjoy the best of Southern California living with a spacious patio for al fresco dining and a sweeping lawn perfect for play, pets, or quiet relaxation.This exceptional home blends luxury, privacy, and classic San Marino elegance–an opportunity not to be missed.

Listed with Pei Chang | 626-922-4268, 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/!

$1,999,999 :: 1620 Knollwood Drive, Pasadena CA, 91103

3 beds, 1.75 baths
Home size: 1,931 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,420 sq ft
Added: 10/06/25, Last Updated: 11/11/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-24457
Community: 645 – Pasadena (NW)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 11/11/2025 by 5%
Status: Active

Think You’ve Seen This One? Think Again.Fresh and on the market better than ever, this architect-designed mid-century gem in prime Linda Vista has been thoughtfully updated and is absolutely worth a second look–or a first!The sellers took it off the market to make some key improvements, and the results speak for themselves. The primary bathroom has been completely remodeled from top to bottom, featuring elegant finishes that bring a spa-like feel to everyday living. In the kitchen, you’ll find a stylish refresh with new countertops, sink, backsplash, fixtures, and freshly painted cabinets with updated hardware. It’s now bright, inviting, and ready for your next culinary adventure–plus, there’s a brand-new refrigerator to sweeten the deal.Designed by Edwin R. Cleaveland, this mid-century ranch sits in the hills above the Rose Bowl and celebrates the iconic elements of the era: walls of glass framing mountain views, and seamless flow to a private, professionally landscaped yard complete with an outdoor kitchen and fire pit.Significant upgrades throughout the home include:New roof (2022)Fully owned solar system (~$35K)400 AMP electrical panel + upgraded main lineNew HVAC system and ductworkTankless water heaterUpdated drainage and downspoutsDesigner Baldwin hardware on all exterior doorsThe fenced property boasts approximately $50K in landscaping improvements, fresh interior and exterior paint (2025), and a refreshed basement and garage with epoxy flooring and solar-powered ventilation.Enjoy close proximity to Old Town Pasadena, the ArtCenter, Rose Bowl, Kidspace Museum, and miles of nearby trails in this quiet, dog-friendly neighborhood.A rare opportunity to own an architectural classic that perfectly blends timeless design with modern comforts and privacy.

Listed with Janette Emamian | , 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