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

$1,968,000 :: 2314 Lee Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,123 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,161 sq ft
Added: 06/28/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25143086
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Welcome to this renovated single-story home!! nestled on a quiet street in Arcadia. This stunning home features a great curb appeal with a beautiful circular driveway. Step inside the double door entry to discover flawlessly remodeled modern amenities that harmonize with timeless design. With 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, including a luxurious master suite, this home offers 2123 sq ft on a 9161 sq ft lot for comfortable living. Two attached car garage with opener adds convenience and security with direct access from the kitchen, easy to park and bring groceries in. Every corner of this home has been rejuvenated, large windows throughout the home fill with natural light while offering picturesque views of the beautiful outdoor pool. The formal living room features a cozy fireplace and specious dining area. The updated kitchen, embrace the updated quartz countertops including stainless steel appliances, refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, sink as well as all modern fixtures throughout. Step outside to a backyard paradise featuring a large pool that sets the tone for the elegance within, a perfect outdoor retreat for relaxing or family gatherings. Conveniently located near top-rated schools, parks, shopping, and dining. This beautiful renovated home is a rare find. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity!

Listed with JACKLYN CHEN | 626-532-2003, Wetrust 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/!

$2,798,000 :: 6 Woodland Lane, Arcadia CA, 91006

4 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 4,748 sq ft
Lot Size: 25,544 sq ft
Added: 07/02/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25148819
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Welcome to this beautiful home in the highly desirable city of Arcadia and located in the prestigious Santa Anita Oaks neighborhood. This single story, 4,748 sqft, 5 bedroom 6 bathroom home sits on a massive 25,700 sqft lot. Once you step foot into the home you are welcomed with a large formal living room that opens up into a spacious foyer. The open floor plan brings you to a huge family room with a wet bar for all your entertaining needs. The kitchen was remodeled a few years back and boasts a large island with quartz countertops and plenty of storage. The wood floors flow seamlessly through the home. The south wing of the home has two large bedrooms with a jack and jill bathroom. The north wing of the home has the primary bedroom with ensuite bathroom and vanity in the hallway. As well with two additional bedrooms, one equipped with another ensuite bathroom. Once you step foot into the backyard you are welcomed with a recently remodeled spacious pool and hot tub. The property has two massive roundabout driveways. One in the front and one that flows around the whole property and leads to the garage in the back. The backyard also has a wide open concrete area for all your outdoor sports and entertaining needs. Exoctic fruit trees throughout the property that includes mangos, guavas, persimmons, citrus and curry leaves. This home is located in the Arcadia School District ranked #1 in Los Angeles County and #4 in all of California. Just a short drive to the Shops at Santa Anita for all your shopping needs, Santa Anita Racetrack, delicious restaurants and nearby freeways. Location is everything and this property has it all. Come take a look now while you still can and call this property your home today!

Listed with Robby Moon | 626-688-9150, Moon 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/!

$1,688,888 :: 1811 Chantry Drive, Arcadia CA, 91006

3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,095 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,514 sq ft
Added: 07/01/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25148692
Community: 605 – Arcadia
Status: Active

Beautiful professional photo is coming tomorrow!Welcome to this charming single-story home nestled in the highly desirable Highland Oaks area of Arcadia. Situated on a quiet, tree-lined street with picturesque mountain views, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and convenience. A circular driveway and lush green curb appeal create a warm and inviting impression as you arrive.

Inside, the home features a spacious open floor plan, complemented by fresh interior paint, new luxury wood flooring in bedrooms and recessed lighting, creating an airy and updated feel throughout. The backyard is a true retreat, complete with a private pool, wooden patio, and mature landscaping””ideal for relaxing or entertaining guests in a peaceful setting.

Located within the prestigious Arcadia Unified School District, this home is zoned for Highland Oaks Elementary, Foothills Middle School, and Arcadia High School. You’ll enjoy easy access to the I-210 freeway, and just minutes away from Los Angeles County Arboretum, The Shops (Arcardia Mall)Santa Anita, Trader Joe’s, popular Asian supermarkets, and a wide selection of restaurants. The nearby Metro station offers a convenient public commute to Downtown Los Angeles. As a charming bonus, you may even spot peacocks wandering the neighborhood “”just one of the many unique touches that make this community special.

This is a rare opportunity to own a beautifully maintained pool home in one of Arcadia’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Don’t miss out””schedule your showing appointment today!

Listed with YING TAN | 626-551-8577, RE/MAX 2000 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/!

$2,580,000 :: 1370 Bradbury Road, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 3.75 baths
Home size: 2,510 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,778 sq ft
Added: 06/27/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22988
Community: 655 – San Marino
Status: Active

This impeccably renovated 1947 single-level traditional home blends timeless charm with sleek modern updates. Located on a quiet, tree-lined street near top-rated San Marino High School and Carver Elementary School, this spacious 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom home plus private office offers a flexible layout ideal for extended families or work-from-home needs. The inviting entry opens to a bright living room with gas fireplace and plantation shutters. Dual living areas are separated by a sleek sliding glass door — perfect for privacy or entertaining. The open-concept kitchen features custom German cabinetry, Caesarstone countertops, and Viking appliances. High-end finishes include maple wood flooring, European recessed lighting, and Marvin Ultimate Aluminum Clad Windows. The large primary suite boasts a 150+ SF walk-in closet, custom bi-fold doors to the yard, and a spa-like bath with dual sinks and separate toilet room. A wall of folding doors connects the family room to the private, grassy backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Modern upgrades include, automatic driveway gate, 5-camera security system, updated copper plumbing & electrical, HVAC system (2018), tankless water heater (2018), water softener (2025), permitted rear addition (2018). Additional features: two attic access points with great storage, and a 435 SF 2-car garage with automatic door and attic space. With 2,510 SF of living space on an 8,776 SF lot, this move-in-ready gem offers comfort, style, and a coveted location.

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/!

$1,499,000 :: 1010 N Madison Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104

5 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,600 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,777 sq ft
Added: 02/20/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR25146222
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Own a piece of Pasadena history with this stunning 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom Craftsman-style residence located in the highly coveted Orange Heights Historic District. Originally built in 1908 with a permitted second story added in 1913, this 2,600 square foot two-story home blends timeless character with functional living. The first floor features a spacious living room, formal dining area, a versatile bedroom currently used as a den, and a full bathroom adjacent to the laundry area. The kitchen includes a refrigerator water hookup and direct access to a large back porch with an additional deck and expansive backyard. Upstairs, the front-facing bedroom opens to a generous balcony through French doors and includes a bonus area ideal for a sitting room or office. Period details such as built-ins, original wood accents, and classic design touches can be found throughout. Enjoy evenings on the covered front porch, surrounded by mature landscaping. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this home offers a rare opportunity to own a significant part of Pasadena’s architectural heritage. Located minutes from local shops, dining, and the cultural charm of the city.

Listed with Yvonne Newbern CalDRE: N | 626-469-9284, JohnHart 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/!

$1,749,000 :: 2338 Paloma Street, Pasadena CA, 91104

3 beds, 2.5 baths
Home size: 2,249 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,075 sq ft
Added: 05/09/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 25526913
Community: 646 – Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Nestled in the sought-after Casa Grande neighborhood of Pasadena, this charming residence is set on a expansive and peaceful street just moments from Victory Park and the popular weekly farmers market. With over 40 years of thoughtful ownership, this home exudes warmth, character, and a deep sense of care throughout. Inside, you’ll find an inviting layout with generous living spaces, including a spacious formal living room with a beautiful fireplace, a cozy family room with an additional fireplace, and a well-appointed kitchen featuring ample counter space and a convenient breakfast bar. Light streams into the family room from the abundance of french windows that look out onto the lovely backyard. Classic details like a vintage bathroom blend seamlessly with modern updates, including newly refinished hardwood and laminate flooring, offering both charm and functionality. The outdoor space is a true highlight– a private retreat with a large pool, expansive patio deck, stylish pergola, and built-in fire pit, perfect for entertaining or relaxing under the stars. Additional features include a long driveway, spacious garage, and a bonus room. A true gem in one of Pasadena’s most desirable pockets, this home is ready to welcome its next chapter of memories. Enjoy proximity to parks, markets, and all that makes this neighborhood so special.

Listed with Julie A. Mollo | 323-459-2789, 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/!

$4,920,000 :: 2560 Raleigh Drive, San Marino CA, 91108

5 beds, 6 baths
Home size: 4,242 sq ft
Lot Size: 19,668 sq ft
Added: 05/17/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25110095
Community: 655 – San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/2/2025 by 3%
Status: Active

Located on a quiet street in the heart of San Marino, this beautifully updated traditional ranch-style 4300 sqft home sits on nearly half an acre lot, with an abundant and private driveway. Featuring 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, enjoying temp-controlled floors, 3 of which have steam showers. It combines modern luxury and European elegance. A central vacuum system, and a spacious open floor plan with a dramatic family room with high wood beam ceiling, Italian marble fireplace, formal dining room, and large kitchen with breakfast nook. The prime bedroom is conveniently located on the main floor. Additional highlights include 3 AC units, 3 tankless water heaters, 2 HVAC systems with individual zone control, a water softener system, pre-wired Ethernet ports, a large laundry room, and a finished basement. The private backyard enjoys a coveted sparkling pool””perfect for entertaining. Very easy distance to San Marino High School.

Listed with HE GEORGE GAO | 626-679-0858, RE/MAX ELITE 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/!

$2,238,000 :: 2222 Cielo Place, Arcadia CA, 91006

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,731 sq ft
Lot Size: 25,858 sq ft
Added: 03/12/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PW25040489
Community: 605 – Arcadia
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/2/2025 by 4%
Status: Active

One of the Best Views in Arcadia with Incredible View of City Lights, Hills and Mountains, this Beautiful Mid-Century single-story home was built in 1959 and is located in Arcadia’s well-known Highland Oaks neighborhood and is in Arcadia’s highly-rated school district. As you enter through the double doors of this 2,731 sq. ft. home, you will find a gorgeous slate tile entryway with a small interior fountain and stunning views including a sparkling 4-foot deep pool, beautiful rose gardens, green turf, multiple patios and wood deck. This home has 3 large bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, a formal step down living room with a gas fireplace, a step- down family room with more views of the pool, rose gardens, 2 small exterior fountains and access to the outdoor patio perfect for enjoying the pool and entertaining guests. The family room and formal dining room share several updated floor to ceiling dual paned windows and a double-sided gas fireplace. The galley-styled kitchen has been updated with beautiful Caesar stone countertops and upgraded kitchen cabinets. There are several storage cabinets throughout this home and a separate laundry room with more storage. The main suite and second bedroom have both been expanded to include a full living room/sitting area with more fantastic views from windows and sliding glass doors to access the pool, patios and wood wrap around deck. This well-maintained home has been updated with PEX plumbing, a whole house water filtration system, paid off solar panels, new garage door, and Tesla charger port in the 2 car garage. The long driveway is perfect for multi-car and off street parking. Located on a quiet, private, cul de sac street, this single-story hilltop view home is truly one of a kind. Over 1/2 Acre lot.

Listed with Claudia Ladwig | 951-218-5313, Showcase Homes, So Cal

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/!

$1,858,000 :: 1106 S Eighth Ave Ave, Arcadia CA, 91006

6 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 2,421 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,274 sq ft
Added: 06/04/25, Last Updated: 07/02/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR25124720
Community: 605 – Arcadia
The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/2/2025 by 0%
Status: Active

Welcome to the 2 Remodeled Homes on One Lot – Arcadia School District! Priced like one, but you get 2!!! Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own two beautifully remodeled homes on a single lot, located in the highly sought-after Arcadia Unified School District. Nestled on a quiet, tree-lined street, this unique property offers exceptional flexibility””ideal for multi-generational living, rental income, or future development.

Front House (1106 S Eighth Ave),This spacious home features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with a bright, open floor plan. Highlights include a brand-new kitchen, modern bathrooms, new flooring, fresh interior and exterior paint, a new roof, new driveway, new electric water heater, and a smart garage door that can be controlled from your phone. Enjoy the private backyard with a new concrete patio””perfect for outdoor dining or afternoon tea””plus a rare, mature avocado tree that adds charm and value.

Back House (1108 S Eighth Ave), Charming and cozy, this updated home offers 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, along with new flooring, an upgraded kitchen and bathrooms, and fresh paint throughout. The detached 2-car garage provides parking, storage, or potential for an ADU conversion.

Each home has separately permitted water, gas, and electric meters, along with private yard areas, offering both independence and privacy.

Conveniently located near award-winning Arcadia schools, parks, golf courses, the Arboretum, Santa Anita Park, The Shops at Santa Anita, and easy access to the 210 and 605 freeways. Live in one home and rent the other, host extended family, or invest in one of Arcadia’s most desirable and in-demand neighborhoods!

Listed with Lori Peng CalDRE: S | 626-203-3355, Sweet Dragon Realty Corp

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/!

$3,328,000 :: 440 Winthrop Road, San Marino CA, 91108

4 beds, 3.5 baths
Home size: 2,402 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,436 sq ft
Added: 05/02/25, Last Updated: 07/01/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS25098211
Community: 655 – San Marino
Status: Active

This totally renovated villa-style home, completed in 2018, offers a rare opportunity to own a turnkey property in one of San Marino’s most desirable neighborhoods. Featuring 4 spacious bedrooms, 3.5 luxurious bathrooms, and a versatile office that can serve as a 5th bedroom, this home blends high-end finishes with smart functionality.Renovations include a new roof, updated plumbing and electrical systems, new HVAC, new water heater, and custom European cabinets and doors throughout. The chef’s kitchen is equipped with top-end appliances, including a built-in steamer, while elegant lighting and a premium interior and exterior sound system add to the home’s modern sophistication.Located close to top-ranked San Marino schools and just minutes from South Pasadena, the home also includes a detached two-car garage with potential to be converted into an ADU (please verify with the City of San Marino for requirements). The professionally designed backyard retreat features an infinity pool, Jacuzzi, and waterfall, perfect for entertaining or relaxing in style.This smart home is also equipped with a cutting-edge system directly linked to the local fire station, offering peace of mind and security. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this extraordinary home that truly redefines contemporary luxury in San Marino.

Listed with LEI SHEN | 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/!

(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