How Can You Stage Your Home While Living in It?

By Erik Kelly

Erik Kelly has been a top-producing real estate professional since 2002 and a proud Phoenix resident since 1996. His deep community ties and industry reputation have enabled him to build a thriving, referral-based business.

Selling your home while you’re still living in it might sound tricky, but it’s doable with the right strategy. After all, it pays to do a little work before you list your house–whether you’re still living in it or not. Did you know that staged homes sell 13% faster and can even bring in higher offers?

With a few adjustments, you can create a space that feels fresh, inviting, and buyer-friendly while still enjoying your daily routine. As a professional real estate agent, I help homeowners like you sell faster and for top dollar—even while living in the home. Let’s go over some smart, manageable steps to stage your home effectively without disrupting your life:

Decluttering & deep cleaning. If you’re still living in your home while it’s on the market, the first step is to declutter the main living spaces. Clear out anything you don’t use daily. Tuck away personal items and remove anything that makes a room feel crowded. Less stuff makes the space feel bigger. After that, do a deep clean. Make the windows sparkle. Scrub the baseboards. Wipe down doors, handles, and light switches. Even if your home is already clean, this step takes it to the next level. A spotless home feels fresh and inviting, which helps buyers stay focused on the space—not on dirt or mess.

Plan for showings in advance. It’s best to leave the house during showings so buyers can explore comfortably. Have a go-to plan—maybe a park visit, a coffee shop break, or running errands—so it’s easy to head out whenever needed. Keep a small bag ready with essentials like snacks, chargers, and activities for kids or pets. The more prepared you are, the less stressful last-minute showings will feel.

By staging smartly while still living in your home, you’ll attract more buyers, sell faster, and maximize your sale price without turning your daily life upside down. If you want more tips on preparing your home for a top-dollar sale, let’s chat! Just call me at 480-382-6444 or send an email to clients@erikkellyhomes.com with any questions. I look forward to hearing from you!