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Home Staging Business

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How to Start a Home Staging Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on January 3, 2022 Updated on February 14, 2024

How to Start a Home Staging Business

Investment range

$3,550 - $14,100

Revenue potential

$84,000 - $336,000 p.a.

Time to build

1 – 3 months

Profit potential

$67,200 - $134,400 p.a.

Industry trend

Homes that are staged, or prepared in advance to boost appeal to the buyer, sell for up to 20% more than non-staged homes, and more than 80% of real estate agents find it easier to sell a home that’s been staged . With demand growing, home staging can be a lucrative business, especially for creative types who are able to partner with real estate agents. 

Starting a home staging business is challenging, and requires diligence, preparation, and knowledge. This step-by-step guide has all the information and insight you need to get started on your entrepreneurial journey to a successful home staging business.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a home staging business has pros and cons that you should consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

  • High Demand – Home staging is becoming increasingly common
  • Good Money – With few expenses you’ll have high margins
  • Fun! – If you’re creative, you’ll love your job
  • Increasing Investment – As your inventory grows it could get expensive
  • Business will fluctuate with the real estate market

Home staging industry trends

Staging is becoming more mainstream and is being done at all price points. While staging used to be done only if the home had an issue, such as a poor view, it’s now the norm, even in higher price ranges where you would expect the homes to already show well. The IAHSP study showed that 40% of homes in the $350,000 to $500,000 price range that sold in 2019 were staged, and in the $500,000 and up price range the number was over 20%.

Industry size and growth

  • Industry size and past growth – An estimated 5 million properties were sold in the US in 2019, and about a million were staged, according to the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP).(( https://d3oaxt0bwkjnjn.cloudfront.net/documents/home-staging-industry-statistics-2020-min.pdf ))
  • Growth forecast – The number of home sales is projected to increase to 7 million in 2023. (( https://www.statista.com/statistics/275156/total-home-sales-in-the-united-states-from-2009/ )) Home staging is growing in popularity because it works. Staged homes sell as much as 30 times faster than non-staged homes, and for up to 20% more, according to the IAHSP.
  • Number of businesses – There are fewer than 10,000 professional home stagers worldwide, the IAHSP says. 

home staging industry size and growth

Trends and challenges

Industry trends include:

  • Home sales are projected to increase nearly 7% in 2022, according to Realtor.com, which is good news for the home staging industry.
  • A National Association of Realtors (NAR) survey showed that 47% of agents said home staging shaped most buyers’ view of the home and 82% said staging made it easier for buyers to visualize the property as a future home.

Challenges in the industry also exist that include:

  • It’s becoming a very competitive industry because it’s very easy to get into the home staging business.
  • The long-term real estate market is hard to predict and varies by area, and the home staging industry is directly impacted by the home sales market. 

home staging Trends and Challenges

Consumer spending

  • Potential customer base – Around 7 million homeowners are seen to sell their homes in 2023.
  • Average prices – The average price to stage a home includes $300 to $600 for consultation, and $500 to $600 per month per room as long as the house is on the market.

home staging business consumer spending

How much does it cost to start a home staging business?

Startup costs for a home staging business range from about $3,500 to $14,000. Your main costs are the inventory of items that you’ll need for staging. You can start with some second-hand items and add more to your inventory later.

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your home staging business. Here’s a list to get you started:

  • An assortment of furniture items
  • Home décor items

How much can you earn from a home staging business?

The average price to stage a home ranges from $300 to $600 for an initial design consultation, and $500 to $600 per month per room as long as the house is on the market. This is basically a fee for the staging itself and the rental of the staging items. Subtracting for item delivery and fuel costs, your profit margin should be about 80%.

In your first year or two, you could work from home and stage five homes per month, charging $400 for the initial consultation and $500 per month for an average of 2 months. This would bring you $84,000 in annual revenue and $67,200 in profit, assuming that 80% margin. 

As your brand gains recognition, sales could climb to 20 houses per month. At this stage, you’d hire staff and rent a commercial space to store your inventory, reducing your margin to 40%. With annual revenue of $336,000, you’d still make a tidy profit of $134,400.

home staging business earnings forecast

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a home staging business. Your biggest challenges will be:

  • It will take time to develop strong relationships with realtors  
  • You’ll need to locate quality items to use for staging

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a home staging business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research home staging businesses in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a discount home staging company.

business plan for home staging company

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as luxury homes.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products or services

You could offer a variety of staging packages for customers. You could offer:

  • Basic staging involves de-cluttering and rearranging furniture and other items
  • Staging that includes bringing in items to stage full rooms
  • Full staging involves bringing in contractors to paint and renovate

How much should you charge for home staging services?

The price for an initial design consultation ranges from $300 to $600. Pricing thereafter is $500-$600 per month for as long as the house is on the market. When starting small, your only ongoing costs should be having items delivered and placed in the house, and fuel costs. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price point. Remember, the price you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will mainly be realtors who will give you referrals. You can find them on business-related sites like LinkedIn and on realty sites like Realtor.com. 

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out an office with space for storing your staging items. Find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

  • Central location accessible via public transport
  • Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
  • Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
  • Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

home staging business idea rating

Step 3: Brainstorm a Home Staging Business Name

Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

  • Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
  • Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
  • The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
  • Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
  • Including keywords, such as “staging” or “home staging”, boosts SEO
  • Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Stage Right Interiors” over “Eco-Friendly Staging Solutions” or “Luxury Home Staging”
  • Avoid location-based names that might hinder future expansion
  • Use online tools like the Step by Step Business Name Generator . Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Home Staging Business Plan

Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:

  • Executive Summary: A brief overview outlining the essence of your home staging business, including its mission, vision, and key objectives.
  • Business Overview: A detailed description of your home staging business, highlighting its purpose, structure, and the unique value it brings to the market.
  • Product and Services: Clear delineation of the specific home staging services and products your business offers, emphasizing their quality and appeal.
  • Market Analysis: Thorough examination of the target market for your home staging services, including demographics, trends, and potential opportunities.
  • Competitive Analysis: Evaluation of competitors in the home staging industry, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and differentiators to position your business strategically.
  • Sales and Marketing: Strategic plan outlining how your home staging business will attract and retain clients, encompassing promotional activities, pricing strategies, and sales tactics.
  • Management Team: Introduction to the key individuals responsible for running and managing your home staging business, emphasizing their skills and expertise.
  • Operations Plan: A detailed blueprint outlining the day-to-day operations of your home staging business, covering workflow, logistics, and any necessary partnerships.
  • Financial Plan: Comprehensive financial projections for your home staging business, including startup costs, revenue forecasts, and break-even analysis.
  • Appendix: Supplementary materials, such as resumes, additional research data, or any other relevant documents supporting your home staging business plan.

what to include in a business plan

If you’ve never created a business plan yourself before, it can be an intimidating task. Consider hiring an experienced business plan writer to create a professional business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to home staging. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state . 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your home staging will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

  • Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
  • Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
  • C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
  • S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

types of business structures

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2023

business plan for home staging company

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

business plan for home staging company

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

  • Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
  • SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
  • Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
  • Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
  • Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

SBA loans are one of your best options. The SBA offers an SB 7(a) loan for small businesses with favorable terms. Personal funding is also a good option since the startup costs are not high, and you won’t have to make payments on a loan.

types of business funding

Step 8: Apply for Licenses/Permits

Starting a home staging business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments. Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as, health license and permit from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level licenses and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements. 

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

For peace of mind and to save time, we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state, and provide them to you to make sure you’re fully compliant.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account . Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your home staging business as a sole proprietorship. 

Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

  • General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
  • Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
  • Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
  • Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
  • Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
  • Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
  • Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
  • Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

types of business insurance

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You can use industry-specific software, such as Staging Assistant , StageForce , or Good Shuffle Pro , to manage your inventory, quotes, contracts, team, and billing.

  • Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
  • If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

For your home staging business, the marketing strategy should focus on showcasing your expertise in enhancing the appeal of properties for sale, your eye for design and detail, and the positive impact your staging can have on the sale process. Emphasize your ability to transform spaces, tailor designs to different property types, and your track record of successful sales. Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

Kickstart Marketing

  • Professional Branding : Your branding should convey elegance, professionalism, and an eye for design. This includes your logo, business cards, and portfolio of staged properties.
  • Direct Outreach : Network with real estate agents, property developers, and homeowners. Building relationships with these groups can lead to regular staging opportunities.

Digital Presence and Online Marketing

  • Professional Website and SEO : Develop a website that showcases your portfolio, outlines your services, and features client testimonials. Optimize your website for local SEO to rank for searches related to home staging, real estate staging, and property styling.
  • Social Media Engagement : Utilize platforms like Instagram and Pinterest for their visual focus to showcase your staging projects. Use Facebook and LinkedIn to share success stories and network with real estate professionals.

Content Marketing and Engagement

  • Interior Design Blog : Share informative content about home staging tips, interior design trends, and success stories. This establishes your expertise and keeps your website content fresh.
  • Email Newsletters : Regular newsletters can keep your network informed about recent projects, home staging tips, and design trends.
  • Video Tours : Create video content that showcases your staged properties, offering insights into your design process and the transformation achieved.

Experiential and In-Person Engagements

  • Open Houses and Showcases : Collaborate with real estate agents to host open houses for your staged properties, allowing potential clients to see your work firsthand.
  • Networking Events : Attend or host local networking events targeted toward the real estate industry to build relationships and showcase your services.

Collaborations and Community

  • Partnerships with Real Estate Agencies : Develop partnerships with real estate agencies to become their preferred staging service provider.
  • Collaborations with Local Furniture and Decor Stores : Work with local stores for furniture and decor, which can lead to mutual referrals and discounts.

Customer Relationship and Loyalty Programs

  • Referral Programs : Implement a referral program that rewards real estate agents or homeowners who refer new clients to your business.
  • Repeat Customer Discounts : Offer discounts or added services to repeat customers to build loyalty and encourage ongoing business relationships.

Promotions and Advertising

  • Targeted Local Advertising : Use local advertising in real estate publications, community newspapers, and online platforms to reach potential clients.
  • Showcase Before and After Results : Highlight the impact of your staging through before and after photos in your marketing materials and on social media.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your home staging meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your home staging business could be: 

  • Luxury home staging to sell your home for top dollar
  • Affordable home staging to get your home sold fast
  • Home staging based on your budget

unique selling proposition

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a home staging business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in home staging for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in home staging. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a home staging business would include:

  • Designers – Assist with designing the staging of homes
  • Laborers – Deliver and move furniture and other items
  • General Manager – To schedule appointments, manage inventory, accounting
  • Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media, call on realtors

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Home Staging Business – Start Making Money!

If you’re interested in real estate and interior design, you’ll enjoy having a home staging business. You’ll also be performing a valuable service for your customers who will sell their homes faster and for more money. The key will be to develop relationships with realtors who will refer you to their home sellers, boosting income for all parties! 

Starting your home staging business will be a win-win for everyone, especially when you see a healthy profit. Now that you know what the business involves, you’re ready to start designing your own successful home staging company.

  • Home Staging Business FAQs

For a design consultation, you can charge between $300 to $600. You can charge additional monthly fees for the staging, usually $500-$600. 

Even working by yourself as a home stager, if you just stage five homes a month, you can see annual profit of over $50,000. Profit margins are high because you’ll have few ongoing expenses.

While you can do marketing to try to reach homeowners, your best bet is to reach out to realtors who can give you referrals. They need home stagers to help sell homes faster and for more money.

Home staging and decorating differ in their purpose and focus. Home staging involves preparing a home for sale by strategically arranging furniture, decluttering, and enhancing the overall appeal to attract potential buyers. It aims to create a neutral and inviting environment. Home decorating, on the other hand, focuses on personalizing a space based on the homeowner’s preferences and style, incorporating their tastes into the design choices.

To promote a home staging business, it is essential to establish a strong online presence. Create a professional website that showcases your portfolio and services. Utilize social media platforms to share before-and-after photos, provide home staging tips, and engage with potential clients. Network with real estate professionals, attend industry events, and offer your expertise through presentations or workshops. 

To increase revenue in your home staging business, consider offering additional services such as consultation services, where you provide expert advice on home staging techniques and design recommendations. You can also offer vacant staging services, where you provide furniture and accessories to transform empty properties. 

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  • Decide if the Business Is Right for You
  • Hone Your Idea
  • Brainstorm a Home Staging Business Name
  • Create a Home Staging Business Plan
  • Register Your Business
  • Register for Taxes
  • Fund your Business
  • Apply for Licenses/Permits
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get Business Insurance
  • Prepare to Launch
  • Build Your Team
  • Run a Home Staging Business - Start Making Money!

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Home Staging Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Home Staging Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Home Staging business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Home Staging businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Home Staging business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

HomeScape Solutions is a startup home staging company located in Scottsdale, Arizona. The company is founded by Tracy Martin, an interior design professional who has provided beautiful decor for hundreds of clients during the past ten years on behalf of her former employer. Tracy has acquired a vast wealth of knowledge and a “feel” for what consumers want to see when they walk into a home and, further, she now has the ability to provide either rooms that tie together throughout the home or refresh the decor of certain homes to conform to the remainder of the interior throughout the home overall.

HomeScape Solutions will truly be a “solution” for those seeking to sell or lease their home. Staging their home will emphasize the beauty and liveability of the home, raising the price expectation and garnering additional profit from the sale or lease pricing. Whether providing decor for an entire home or one room, HomeScape Solutions will make a visible difference in the atmosphere of the home, improving chances of greater success down the line.

Product Offering

The following are the services that HomeScape Solutions will provide:

  • Services for staging an entire home or selected rooms, backyard, etc.
  • Services that provide everything from A to Z, including all furniture removal, trash removal, flooring, and new furniture in replacement
  • Furnishings that are consistent and germane to the style of the home
  • Cleaning and upkeep as needed, daily or weekly while the home is being viewed
  • Design elements that indicate current styles and the most desirable appointments to support that style.
  • Day to day management of property, as needed, to fulfill client needs.

Customer Focus

HomeScape Solutions will target real estate brokers and agents selling residential properties. They will also target leasing agents. They will target commercial leasing agents. They will target commercial building owners. They will target home owners who desire a new style for their home or those who want only one room redesigned for sales or leasing impact.

Management Team

HomeScale Solutions will be owned and operated by Tracy Martin. She recruited her former administrative assistant, Darci Goodwin, to be her Office Manager and help administrate office and operations functions. She also recruited Tory Pearson, a former furnishings design assistant, to take on the role of Design Director for HomeScale Solutions. Tory will oversee are furnishing removal and placement in each location.

Tracy Martin holds an Interior Design degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. She has been employed by an interior design group for ten years and has acquired an extensive knowledge base in home staging and has created over one hundred sustained relationships with clients who greatly value her styling advice.

Darci Goodwin was formerly an administrative assistant who worked with Tory. She will now become the Office Manager, assisting with several administrative functions and handling some of the human resources day to day tasks.

Tory Pearson, also a former employee working with Tracy Martin, will take on the role of Design Director, where she will oversee the start of each project through to successful completion. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Home Design from the University of Phoenix.

Success Factors

HomeScape Solutions will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

  • Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly-qualified team of HomeScape Solutions
  • Comprehensive array of furnishings, artfully designed and placed into position by qualified design professionals.
  • Staging for commercial interests in sales or leasing opportunities
  • HomeScape Solutions offers the best pricing in town. Their pricing structure is the most cost effective compared to the competition.

Financial Highlights

HomeScape Solutions is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its HomeScape Solutions. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

  • Office space build-out: $20,000
  • Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
  • Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
  • Marketing costs: $10,000
  • Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for HomeScape Solutions.

HomeScape Solutions Pro Forma Projections

Company Overview

Who is homescape solutions.

HomeScape Solutions is a newly established, full-service home-staging company located in Scottsdale, Arizona. HomeScape Solutions will be the most results-driven, cost-effective, and effective choice for homeowners and commercial building owners in Scottsdale and the surrounding communities. HomeScape Solutions will provide a comprehensive menu of furnishings and services for any consumer or business to utilize. Their full-service approach includes a comprehensive collection of furnishing for an entire property, or one-room “refresh” approaches that concentrates the attention of buyers to one particular room

  HomeScape Solutions will be able to create a positive change in a residence or commercial setting that leads to a successful home or building sale or lease. The team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in design and style placement. HomeScape Solutions removes all headaches and issues of preparing a property for sale or lease and ensures all issues are taken care of expeditiously while delivering the best customer service.

HomeScape Solutions History

Since incorporation, HomeScape Solutions has achieved the following milestones:

  • Registered HomeScape Solutions, LLC to transact business in the state of Arizona.
  • Has a contract in place for a 10,000 square foot office at one of the midtown buildings
  • Reached out to numerous clients to encourage signing new contracts with her company
  • Began recruiting a staff of six and office personnel to work at HomeScape Solutions

HomeScape Solutions Services

The following will be the services HomeScape Solutions will provide:

  • Day to day management of property, as needed, to fulfill client needs

Industry Analysis

The home staging industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $13 billion. The growth will be driven by the steady use of home staging and the continued growth of the real estate market. The growth will also be driven by virtual staging, which allows potential buyers or leasing prospects to visualize how the home or commercial space could be used. The growth will also be established by the increased awareness of home staging and the advantages of selling. Using a home staging company will result in a 44% likelihood of selling or leasing a home over those that are not staged. The costs are likely to be reduced by technology that will enable virtual designing to be more accessible and improved. The costs will also be reduced by computer applications that will duplicate the staging of homes, movement of furnishings, landscaping changes and other specific improvements on designer computers.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market, customer segmentation.

HomeScape Solutions will primarily target the following customer profiles:

  • Residents of Scottsdale and the surrounding communities
  • Real estate brokers and agents in Scottsdale and surrounding communities
  • Commercial realtors and leasing agents within the greater Scottsdale region
  • Homeowners seeking a new style for one room within their home

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

HomeScape Solutions will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Elegant Home Stagers

Elegant Home Stagers is a professional home staging business that specializes in furnishing properties into visually appealing and marketable spaces. Their goal is to help homeowners, real estate agents, and property developers maximize the potential of their properties and create an inviting atmosphere that encourages potential buyers or tenant.

The services offered by Elegant Home Stagers includes a free consultation, interior furnishing placement and room design, furniture rentals and artwork and decor. Exterior cleanup and landscaping services may be added for an additional charge. Elegant Home Stagers also provides project management and oversight of the building or rooms on a daily or weekly schedule. The emphasis for Elegant Home Stagers is related to the name of the business, “elegant.” All home designs converge around this word on the interior and exterior of the property to enhance the potential for sale or lease.

XFactor Property Design Group

The XFactor Property Design Group exists to support commercial real estate brokers, lenders and building owners to successfully sell properties within a short timeframe and with a maximum profit level. The Group provides a number of services that are specific to designs and re-designs for buildings, including landscaping replacement or clean-up of surrounding areas, furniture removal and replacement of the complete interior of the building. Trending styles to entice forward-looking buyers are offered, as are conference room redesign and rebuild, as needed. All properties are overseen on a daily basis by XFactor Property Design Group in accordance with facility management. The guarantee offered includes a free complete overhaul of all furnishings if the property is not sold or leased within 60 days.

House & Home Design

House & Home Design is focused on one aspect of home staging: minimalist design. House & Home Design carries this focus singly, as it is the trend forward toward clean, simplistic designs that bring to prospective buyers a sense of well-maintained, thoughtful arrangements in each room that offer serene surroundings. House & Home Design owns a large warehouse that contains storage for every furnishing item within this design genre and pulls from stock on hand to fully stage homes and buildings in this minimalist style.

House & Home Design was started in 2020 by Heroit and Lucene Travois, designers from France who emigrated to America in 2017 with the intention of changing the way home staging is conducted in America, moving consumers and buyers toward a minimalist lifestyle and, therefore, a peaceful one.

Competitive Advantage

HomeScape Solutions will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

HomeScape Solutions will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

  • Highly-qualified team of skilled employees who are able to provide a comprehensive array of design services.
  • Professionals with a varied background and qualified success within interior design.
  • Services that include interior and exterior design and placement, upon request.
  • Exclusive guarantee that any properties, either residential or commercial, will be completely redesigned and repositioned, if the property has not been sold or listed within 60 days.
  • Unbeatable pricing for clients; they will offer the lowest pricing in the region.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for HomeScape Solutions is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

HomeScape Solutions has built up an extensive list of contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise to their former clients. The contacts and clients will follow them to their new company and help spread the word of HomeScape Solutions.

Professional Associations and Networking

Tracy Martin will begin to network and get her new company into the sightline of community and regional groups, both professionally and socially. She will direct her efforts to her target audience and build interest from there with the large community base.

Print Advertising

Two weeks prior to launch, HomeScape Solutions will send a direct mail piece to every resident within the Scottsdale area to inform consumers of the opening. Discounts will be offered to new clients in the throughout the region

Website/SEO Marketing

HomeScape Solutions will fully utilize their website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the services that HomeScape Solutions provides. The website will also list their contact information and list testimonials from former clients. The website will engage in SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “home staging company” or “home-staging near me,” HomeScape Solutions will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of HomeScape Solutions will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for HomeScape Solutions. Operation Functions:

  • Tracy Martin will be the owner and President of the company. She will oversee all staff and manage client relations. Tracy has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
  • Darci Goodwin, a former administrative assistant, will become the Office Manager who will manage the office administration, client files, and accounts payable.
  • Tory Pearson will become the Design Director, providing oversight of furniture and design implementation.

Milestones:

HomeScape Solutions will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

  • 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease office space
  • 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for HomeScape Solutions
  • 6/1/202X – Finalize contracts for HomeScape Solutions clients
  • 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
  • 6/22/202X – Begin moving into HomeScape Solutions office
  • 7/1/202X – HomeScape Solutions opens its doors for business

HomeScape Solutions will be owned and operated by Tracy Martin. She recruited her former administrative assistant, Darci Goodwin, to be her Office Manager and help administrate office and operations functions. She also recruited Tory Pearson, a former furnishings design assistant, to take on the role of Design Director for HomeScale Solutions. Tory will oversee are furnishing removal and placement in each location.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for HomeScape Solutions are the fees they will charge to clients for their services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff HomeScape Solutions. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

HomeScape Solutions is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its home staging business. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

  • Number of Clients Per Month: 55
  • Average Revenue per Month: $160,000
  • Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, home staging business plan faqs, what is a home staging business plan.

A home staging business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your home staging business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Home Staging business plan using our Home Staging Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Home Staging Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of home staging businesses , some examples include: Staging with Owner’s Furniture, Staging with Company Furniture, and Staging plus minor maintenance and repairs.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Home Staging Business Plan?

Home Staging businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Home Staging Business?

Starting a home staging business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Home Staging Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed home staging business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your home staging business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your home staging business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Home Staging Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your home staging business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your home staging business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Home Staging Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your home staging business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your home staging business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful home staging business:

  • How to Start a Home Staging Business

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How to Start a Home Staging Business

By Elizabeth Stamp

Home staging project Cheryl Eisen's Interior Marketing Group

As the real estate market has picked up following the recession, so has the need for home stagers . The stats support that burgeoning interest: A National Association of Realtors study last year reported that 62 percent of seller’s agents found that staged homes spent less time on the market. About a third said that staging a home increased the price by 1 to 5 percent, while 28 percent saw a price increase of 8 to 10 percent. Given that interior designers have the eye and the talent to turn an empty apartment into a coveted listing, adding home staging to a firm’s portfolio of services seems like a natural fit. “Interior design can be unpredictable," says Gail Stempel Dunnett, founder and CEO of Studio D, a home staging and interior design firm in San Francisco and New York. "While home staging is seasonal, it’s still more regular than interior design, for some people."

Home staging project by Meridith Baer

A Los Angeles home staging project by Meridith Baer.

To get started, there are a number of paths, from reaching out to real estate agents to staging your own home when it’s on the market. There’s also the option of working with an established home staging company. “We hire interior designers all the time and a lot of them do have their own design business on the side,” says Meridith Baer , founder of Meridith Baer Home. “If interior designers want to get into it, they might get their feet wet by working with a company like ours.” Baer also recommends working with former design clients to get their homes ready for sale or offering “reimagining” services, which use the clients’ existing furniture but give the space a new look. But for long-term success, developing relationships with real estate agents is key. “We have a few handfuls of real estate agents that we have developed strong relationships with who use us quite frequently,” says Nicole Schiller, who founded Los Angeles–based Niche Home Styling with business partner Michelle Goode. “The process moves smoothly when we’re working with repeat agents or developers that do one project after another.”

According to seasoned stagers, there are quite a few differences between interior design and home staging that designers hoping to get into the staging game should be aware of. First of all, they’ll need to be prepared to pick up the pace. “We’re moving in and out of houses in California five to ten times a week,” says Stempel Dunnett. “It’s a much shorter time frame and a much quicker turnaround.”

Having a well-stocked inventory of furnishings and a knowledge of companies that can meet tight deadlines is also key. “It’s quite a heavy front-end investment,” says Schiller. “Some stagers may rent the furniture in the beginning while building their inventory, but we quickly found that it wasn’t a cost-effective way to do things. We spent the first year reinvesting all of out profit into the inventory.”

Cheryl Eisen, founder and CEO of Interior Marketing Group, also notes that designers should be prepared to approach home staging projects with a different eye. “Retrain your brain in terms of broad appeal,” she says. “Interior designers personalize a home to reflect the personalities of their clients. Stagers depersonalize a home so that a wider range of people can imagine their lives in it.” Eisen also notes that designers should make the selling points of the home, such as views or natural light, the stars of the design.

A Pasadena California project by Niche Home Styling

A Pasadena, California, project by Niche Home Styling.

A final factor to keep in mind? Pros also noted that designers should check their egos at the door. At the end of the day, it’s all about making the sale. Says Eisen,“You can’t take things personally. Your main focus is on what’s going to work for the demographic and the broker.”

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  • Starting a Home Staging Business

The real estate market is very competitive. Homeowners who want to sell their property for the highest price need to present it in the best possible way to potential buyers. That is where a home staging business can help. A home staging business helps homes appeal to ideal buyers by creating interior design which highlights the home's strengths and minimizes its flaws.

You may also be interested in additional low cost business ideas .

Learn how to start your own Home Staging Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Home Staging Business Image

Start a home staging business by following these 10 steps:

  • Plan your Home Staging Business
  • Form your Home Staging Business into a Legal Entity
  • Register your Home Staging Business for Taxes
  • Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
  • Set up Accounting for your Home Staging Business
  • Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Home Staging Business
  • Get Home Staging Business Insurance
  • Define your Home Staging Business Brand
  • Create your Home Staging Business Website
  • Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your home staging business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

  • What are the startup and ongoing costs?
  • Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Home Staging Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

  • Your state's business records
  • Federal and state trademark records
  • Social media platforms
  • Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your home staging business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a home staging business.

The startup costs for a home staging business depend on which types of services the business will offer. Potential owners who plan to only consult with homeowners can bootstrap a home staging business for less than a few thousand dollars. Full-service home staging businesses, which have goals of handling more lucrative projects, like filling empty homes with showhome-quality furnishings and accessories, are much more expensive to open. Besides the costs of acquiring, maintaining, and storing an inventory, there are other expenses like transportation and labor costs. One critical expense every home staging startup needs to consider is the cost of a website. A beautiful website is the single most important marketing tool in the industry. This requires hiring a professional web designer and photographer, which is pricey, but necessary.

What are the ongoing expenses for a home staging business?

Marketing is a big cost for all home staging businesses. This includes the cost of hosting a website and other forms of advertising. Depending on the scope of the business, monthly costs may also include rent for office and storage and labor.

Who is the target market?

The target markets for a home staging business are homeowners and real estate agents. Homeowners are more willing to hire new and less experienced home staging businesses than real estate agents.

How does a home staging business make money?

A home staging business makes money by charging clients for their services. Clients generally pay for an initial consultation when they meet with a home stager for a walk-through of the property. After the initial consultation, customers can pay for additional advice on a per hour basis. Home stagers who are responsible for decorating a completely vacant home will normally charge a set rate per room per month. Many home staging business insist on a minimum contract length.

According to  Thumbtack , the average home staging business charges between $165 and $2195 per staging job. Of course, the fees vary widely depending on the area and the type of service the home staging company provides, and whether the home is vacant or occupied. Some home staging companies charge as much as 1% of the sales price to stage an empty home.

How much profit can a home staging business make?

It is not uncommon for experienced home stagers to earn more than $10,000 a month.

How can you make your business more profitable?

A home staging business can earn additional money decorating homes and businesses for special events. In addition, many of the same skills of home staging use every day are transferable to working in the field of interior design.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your home staging business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

  • Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
  • Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

  • Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
  • Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a home staging business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

  • If you plan to lease a home staging business location :
  • It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
  • Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a home staging business.
  • After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
  • If you plan to purchase or build a home staging business location :
  • You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
  • Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your home staging business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

Services Contract

Home staging businesses should require clients to sign a services agreement before starting a new project.  This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Home Staging Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Home Staging Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a home staging business

Often the best way to promote a home staging business in the very beginning is to get out there and start pounding the pavement. Visiting open houses in the area is a good way to meet lots of neighborhood real estate agents and home sellers. Speaking at or attending conferences for local real estate agents is good way to meet potential clients. After completing a few jobs, home staging business owners shouldn't forget to update their websites with before and after photos and testimonials from past clients.

How to keep customers coming back

Getting results for clients while offering reasonable rates and friendly service is the best way to receive consistent work from real estate agents and referrals from home sellers. Some home staging businesses offer real estate agents steep discounts compared to home sellers to encourage repeat business.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

  • All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
  • Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
  • Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

TRUiC's Startup Podcast

Welcome to the Startup Savant podcast , where we interview real startup founders at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey, from launch to scale.

Is this Business Right For You?

Owning a home staging business is an ideal full or part-time business for creative people looking for a business they can run from home or a small office. Due to the nature of the industry, owners of a home staging business need to have a flexible schedule. Late nights and working during the weekends is typical. Some of the work may involve moving heavy furniture and other physical activities.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a home staging business?

Running a home staging business means there is always something to do. Of course, home decoration is part of the business, but that only comes after securing a contract. That means the owners of home staging businesses spend most of their time marketing to real estate agents and home sellers through direct contact or through an online presence.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful home staging business?

While potential owners of a home staging business do not need to acquire any professional certifications, those who attend workshops or enroll in a certification program will find they have a leg up in the industry. Many home staging business owners come from the field of interior design. The bare minimum to own and operate a home staging business is the ability to know how to decorate a home in a way that will appeal to a particular demographic of buyers.

What is the growth potential for a home staging business?

There is real growth potential in the home staging industry. The popularity of interior design magazines and TV shows like  House Hunters  continue to influence what buyers expect to see when they attend an open house. That means empty rooms and poorly presented homes are likely to put off buyers. Today's home sellers are willing to spend money to attract multiple offers on their property.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a home staging business?

While it is possible to open a business in this industry without any training or experience, landing clients can be tough. Enrolling in a hands-on program will not only give potential owners valuable advice on the design and the business aspects of the business, but will also allow them to start building a portfolio of projects to showcase online. New owners need to understand the legal and financial aspects of this industry especially when it comes to writing and signing contracts. Access to a good lawyer is a great asset for home staging business owners when they are just starting out.

How and when to build a team

A team of movers is critical from day one for any home staging businesses that plans to stage vacant homes. All employees need to be trustworthy and dependable because they will have access to the homes of the clients.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

  • Home Staging Resources
  • Real Estate Staging Association
  • American Society of Home Stagers and Redesigners

Real World Examples

  • Aerie Interiors
  • Staging Diva Home Staging Courses

Further Reading

  • 10 Ugly Truth to Know Before You Become a Home Stager
  • 7 Tips For Starting A Home Staging Business

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Home Staging Business

January 17, 2023 •  7 min read

A woman stages a home.

The real estate industry has been a rollercoaster over the last few years. Interest rates, home prices, and the balance of supply and demand have fluctuated drastically in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the midst of all this unprecedented change is a clear need for home stagers who can help prepare available homes for sale. If you are considering starting a home staging business, now might be the right time. Read on to learn more about the basics of launching a home staging business, finding clients, and managing your home staging inventory.

What is home staging and what does it involve?

Simply put, home staging is preparing a home to hit the real estate market. This could include rearranging home decor, switching out lighting fixtures, adding or removing furniture, and much more. The overall goal of staging a home is to help buyers visualize themselves in a house, and potentially sell it quicker. This is incredibly important in today’s market, where some buyers are bidding on homes without even seeing them in person. 

Most people in the home staging industry enter with experience, or at least interest, in interior design—but there’s more to staging a home than just having good taste. Staging homes professionally and launching your own business involves a lot of work and upfront costs, including obtaining furniture and other home decor items, building a clientele, marketing yourself, securing storage space, and tracking inventory. 

Related: How Interior Designers Use Sortly for Inventory Management

How to start a home staging business

1. research your local real estate market and identify customers.

Before starting your home staging business, do lots of research on the current local real estate market. This will help you understand the potential customer pool and real estate trends in your area. You’ll need to identify your target market. Are you focusing on investment properties? Home flippers? Apartment building owners? Office spaces? Determining your specific market will then determine what furniture and decor to get, along with creating your pricing structure.  Not to mention, analyzing your local market can help you focus on what specific design trends are popular in your area and will help you determine what specific design and furnishings to purchase. 

2. Create a pricing structure

The upfront research should arm you with enough data to take a first stab at your pricing structure. The goal for creating a pricing structure is to create a formula that allows you to quickly come up with quotes from inquiries. To start, determine how much you’ve already invested into your business. This includes everything from your business license to the actual furnishings and equipment you’ve purchased. From there, determine the pricing based on how much time each job will take and any potential difficulties you foresee. Don’t forget to create a client contract when creating your pricing structure, as well.

3. Obtain furniture and home decor

One of the most important steps in starting your home staging business is obtaining furniture . Most home stagers don’t stock one type of furniture—it’s a mix of new and used. New furniture is certainly more expensive, which may be a hindrance at the outset of launching your business. You can always buy from budget retailers (think Ikea and Target) since it’s only staging furniture, but mixing in a few nicer pieces can really help sell the look, particularly if you are targeting affluent buyers. You should also invest in used furniture and decor pieces—thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and vintage sellers on Etsy are all great places to start building your used furniture inventory. You may also want to research furniture rentals in your area, which may be more expensive upfront but could save you storage costs in the long run. 

Related: How This Interior Design Firm Transformed Its Business with Sortly

4. Find and attract the right customers with marketing

To bring in new customers, you should have a mix of inbound and outbound tactics. Start with creating a beautiful, SEO-optimized website that features rich information and photos of your work (feel free to stage your own space or a friend’s space if you don’t yet have customer examples). Your contact form should be clear and easy to find—your website should encourage your customers to take action and get a custom quote. 

In time, you can include case studies, including data about home value (pre-staging) and selling price (post-staging), and even how quickly the home was sold. It’s a good idea to include your portfolio with homes that you have staged before, along with customer testimonials. These last two elements could be your selling point to the customer. 

You should use social media to attract customers and build awareness for your business. Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are good places to start for home stagers. You’ll also want to ensure you have claimed your Yelp listing and Google business listing (and hopefully generate some great reviews). Houzz is also a great resource for sellers and agents looking for home stagers, so make sure you have a strong presence there as well.

Having exquisite branding across your website, social profiles, and print marketing materials will help your potential customers feel confident in your taste as a home stager.

Become an Inventory Insider

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5. Get out there

With a business like home staging, there’s still an in-person component that can’t be ignored—even with the best digital strategy. Having good relationships with brokers and agents is essential to getting their referrals (in some cases, they may even hire you themselves), so find ways to network in your area. That could mean going to networking events and conferences or even just reaching out on LinkedIn to see if you can buy them a cup of coffee. You can also attend open houses (of unstaged homes) and establish a relationship with agents that way, but don’t try to push your services too directly. Letting them know that home staging can help them sell the home more quickly and that they can keep you top of mind for their next property is a good place to start.

6. Find the right storage solution

Given how much furniture and decor it requires to run a home staging business, you’ll need to invest in a storage solution for your inventory and equipment. The type of storage solution is entirely up to you. Storage units are a good option for beginning home stagers, as they are flexible and readily available.

Another option is to build a small storage unit on your property. This is a good option if you already have a flourishing home staging business; it’s an upfront investment but will ultimately save you time and money in the long run. It can also be helpful for rush jobs, as your equipment and materials will be on site with you, so you can easily load up your vehicle or trailer before heading out the door. A home equity line of credit can actually help finance these types of expenses. 

7. Find a flexible, all-in-one inventory management software

With a home staging business, your inventory will be constantly changing hands and locations. That furniture might be there for a few days, weeks, or even months, and it quickly becomes unwieldy to track by hand or even on an Excel spreadsheet. Having an inventory management system like Sortly can help you track and manage your home staging inventory, all right from your smartphone. This is critical to not only tracking where your staging furniture and decor are but also can help you visualize your stored items without going to a physical location. 

Sortly also allows you to track key details like condition, appearance, cost, quantity, warranty dates, and any other detail that matters to you. You can even organize your inventory based on current jobs and future projects. A flexible inventory management system can save you time, money, and hassle on a daily basis—so you can focus on building your business. 

Related: Sortly for Home Stagers and Interior Designers

About Sortly

Sortly is top-rated inventory management software that can help new home stagers stay organized and efficient. Perfect for businesses that store inventory across multiple locations, Sortly’s powerful features will help you stay on top of all your stuff, even as it moves back and forth between job sites and storage facilities. 

It is a fully visual inventory system that allows you to upload photos right from your phone, share photo-rich reports with real estate agents, and track the condition and value of your furniture inventory–all while streamlining your everyday inventory management operations.

Ready to see how Sortly can help your home staging business? Try Sortly completely free for two weeks. 

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8 Steps to Building a Home Staging Business

Home Staging Business

Kelsey Mulvey

Behind a beautiful, marketable real estate listing is a home staging business. While realtors do everything from setting prices to communicating with potential buyers, it is a home stager's job to turn a house into a home. According to the National Association of Realtors, a staged home often spends less time on the market and is considered more valuable. 

A home staging company sounds like an essential business venture, but how do you even get started? Keep reading for your step-by-step guide to launching your home staging business.

Step One: Assess the Financials  

Let's be honest: Launching a business is an expensive endeavor—and the home staging industry is no exception. Before you put the time, effort, and, yes, money into launching your home staging business, calculate your start-up costs. Jot down a list of one-time and ongoing expenses you'll incur, including the following: 

  • Business license
  • Business insurance
  • Domain name 
  • Website design 
  • Marketing materials (i.e. logos, business cards, flyers, brochures)
  • Home decor and furniture 
  • Warehouse to store home decor and furniture 
  • Online courses and certifications

Prices for most of your business expenses will vary, so it's a good idea to shop around for the best rate. From there, you'll be able to determine if you can afford to launch your own home staging business and how much you'll need to make to break even.  

Step Two: Make it Official 

As the old adage goes, the early bird gets the worm—and your home staging business is no exception. Once you've decided to launch your home staging company, it's time to take the leap of faith and make it official. But before you start sprucing up real estate properties, you'll need to fill out some paperwork:

Name Your Home Staging Business: First things first: You need to come up with a business name . Not only will your company's name be included on all your taxes, business banking applications, and LLC., but it will also encourage you to start thinking about your brand as a whole. In order to choose a company name that will hold up over time, think about your business goals. What will your home staging business offer? Who is your target market? What type of properties do you want to stage? 

Create an LLC:  Establishing a legal entity will help draw a line between your personal bank account and your company's finances. For example, setting up a legal liability company (or LLC) will protect you from any setbacks your business might experience such as debt or lawsuits. Err on the side of caution by setting up your LLC sooner rather than later, and your personal assets will be protected should your company experience a rough patch. 

Sign Up for Taxes: Speaking of taxes: As a business owner, you are responsible for filing state and federal taxes for your company . Instead of filing your taxes under your social security number, you will file your company's taxes with an employer identification number (or EIN). Fortunately, many business formation companies will automatically give you an EIN.

Apply for a Business Banking Account: When it comes to building a home staging business, you'll have to spend money to make money—literally. A home stager should have access to furniture they can readily use at a client's home; however, you shouldn't have to buy all your home staging essentials with your personal credit card. Not only will setting up a business banking account monitor your spending, but it will also help you keep track of the expenses you can write off once tax season rolls around. 

Research Business Insurance Policies: When you're just getting your home staging business off the ground, there's a good chance you'll be your own assistant, accountant, and, yes, your own moving team. While you may not need to sign up for a business insurance policy right away, it's something to think about as you scale your home staging business. 

Step Three: Become a Master Home Stager 

Real estate agents might be required to get their licenses before they can sell homes, but the home staging industry is surprisingly underregulated. While you don't need any special certifications or credentials to become a successful home stager, it's a good idea to enroll in a few online courses for interior design and home staging. Not only will they help sharpen your eye for design, but these certifications will also legitimize your business when you're just starting out. 

Step Four: Create Your Marketing Materials 

Before you start networking and reaching out to potential clients, you need to have your marketing materials designed, printed, and ready to be distributed. But while business cards and pamphlets are important, your website is arguably the most important tool of your marketing arsenal. For starters, a website is a convenient place for potential clients to view your rates, check out your social media profiles, and find your contact information. But since the home staging industry places a heavy emphasis on interior design, your website should show off your personal style. Most website builders have beautiful templates to choose from but if you want to create a one-of-a-kind site, you can hire a graphic designer or web developer. 

Step Five: Set Your Rates 

Negotiating rates with a potential client can be uncomfortable—especially when you have a new business. On the one hand, you want to get paid for the hard work you put into a client's home. However, as a small business owner, you also want to build experience and simply get paid. To avoid any awkward conversations, set your rates ahead of time.

So, how much are you supposed to charge for a home staging job? According to Realtor.com, most home staging services charge between $300 and $600 for an initial consultation, and $500 to $600 per room per month. Oftentimes, a home stager will rent out furniture—and charge their clients an additional monthly fee.

If you want to cater to different types of properties, you can always create different pricing tiers. For example, you could charge less for a small, studio apartment, or partial staging. That way, you and your potential clients can find a package that works with their budgets. 

Step Six: Pick Up Home Decor  

Now that you've done all the paperwork, it's time to have a little fun with your home staging business. Since interior design is a huge part of any home staging business, it's important to invest in a few pieces of home decor that you can use in a variety of projects. Since no two homes are the same, you might want to refrain from buying large sofas or bed frames until you really need them. Instead, focus on smaller accessories like the following:

  • Coffee table 
  • Accent chairs
  • Side tables
  • Rug runner for hallways 
  • Throw blankets
  • Throw pillows

Once you've racked up a few home staging projects, you might want to consider renting a storage unit or a small warehouse where you can place and maintain your furniture. 

Step Seven: Build a Portfolio

Want to become your area's go-to home staging company? Well, you'll need to create a portfolio to show off your design chops. For many small business owners, building a portfolio can feel like a Catch-22. You'll need a portfolio to score new projects and clients, but how are you supposed to create a portfolio when you've yet to have your first client? 

To start, show off your style by taking pictures of your home. If you want to add some more projects to your portfolio, ask a friend or family member if you can practice your home staging skills with their places. 

Step Eight: Find Business—and Collect Testimonials 

Now that you've set up your business, created a beautiful website, and built a portfolio, it's time to go out and find your first client. Sure, putting yourself and your brand-new business out there is a little intimidating. To help, check out these savvy ways to strike up new business.

​Analyze the Market 

According to the National Association of Realtors, staged properties often spend less time on the market than their non-staged counterparts. If you want to help homeowners who are struggling to sell their place, take a look at your local real estate listings. If you see a property that's been on the market for a few weeks (if not, months), reach out to the seller or listing agent. From there, you can schedule a meeting and share how your services can help them sell their property faster.  

Network with Local Realtors 

Chances are, a small group of realtors and real estate firms represents the bulk of your neighborhood's listings. If you want to be the go-to home staging business, it's a good idea to become friendly with your area's real estate circuit. Ask a few realtors out for coffee so you can learn about their businesses and share what you can bring to the table. That way, you'll be top of mind if a realtor is ever looking for a home staging business. 

Spread the Word 

When it comes to launching your own home staging business, self-promotion is key. After all, how else will potential clients know you're open for business? Whether you share on your neighborhood's social media page, ask friends and family to tell their communities, or post a flyer at your co-working space, spreading the news will go a long way. 

Let's Wrap it Up

Once your home staging business takes off, you may need to hire some new employees . Download Hourly, which makes onboarding a breeze. Simply text your new employees a link to join Hourly, and they can add in all their information from their phones. The app uses GPS and geofencing to ensure your employees are at the correct home staging site, and only lets them clock in once they’ve arrived. Plus, Hourly also lets employers create custom rules like enforcing 8 hour days, 30-minute lunches, and setting mandatory start times. That way, you can rest easy knowing your new employees aren't working overtime to get up to speed.

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Small Business Trends

How to start a home staging business: a comprehensive step-by-step guide.

Have you ever wondered how to start a home staging business? Home staging has become a highly sought-after service in the real estate market. Home stagers play an important role in the real estate sector by curating an environment that helps potential buyers envision themselves living in the space.

If you’re interested in an exciting small business opportunity as a home stager, you might be asking questions like, “What’s the process for how to start a staging business?” and “How much do home stagers make?”

For the answer to these and other probing questions, keep reading our step-by-step guide to starting a home staging business.

What is a Home Staging Business?

how to start a home staging business

A home staging business is a venture that focuses on preparing properties for sale in the real estate market. This includes making a home visually appealing to potential buyers through interior design, decluttering, and enhancing the property’s overall aesthetic appeal.

The primary goal of a home stager is to facilitate quick sales and ensure a high return on investment, making home staging a lucrative endeavor for many entrepreneurs. Home sellers or real estate professionals often hire these professionals. Some even offer additional home services like cleaning and organizing.

Since you can work on your own schedule and set your own services, home staging is among the top side hustle ideas for those interested in real estate. However, you can also run it as a full-time business.

Small Business Deals

The role of home staging in real estate.

Home staging is essential for real estate agents looking to sell properties quickly and at top dollar.

By creating an attractive and inviting environment, a successful home stager can help potential buyers see the value and potential in a property, thereby facilitating quicker sales.

Likewise, studies have shown that staged homes can command higher prices than their unstaged counterparts.

Advantages of Running a Home Staging Business

If you’re interested in exploring real estate business ideas or learning how to start a business in general, home staging may be for you. Operating home-staging small businesses offers several benefits, including:

  • Flexibility: This line of work allows you to set your own hours and choose your home staging projects.
  • Creativity: Home staging requires a keen eye for design and allows for creative expression.
  • Potential income: With real estate markets booming, home staging can provide a steady stream of income.
  • Networking opportunities: It gives you a chance to interact with various industry professionals.
  • Business growth: The demand for home staging is high, offering the potential for business expansion.

Step 1: Research the Home Staging Industry

how to start a home staging business

Before you embark on how to start a home staging business, it’s essential to understand the industry landscape. This includes identifying market trends, size, and potential growth, which will help shape your business strategy.

Key Players and Competitors

Understanding your competitors is crucial. By studying the competition, you can gauge what strategies are working for successful home stagers, how much the services cost, and you even might gather home staging tips.

Notable players in the home staging industry include:

  • Meridith Baer Home : Known for luxury home staging, the company offers a broad portfolio.
  • Staged Homes : This business emphasizes the role of accredited staging professionals.
  • Showhomes : The company focuses on home updates and home manager staging.
  • Stage to Sell : Offers full-service staging, including consultations and furniture rental.
  • Spade and Archer Design Agency : The agency provides home staging services with a design-centric approach.

Industry Challenges and Opportunities

Starting a home staging business comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. For example:

  • Market saturation: Some areas have a high concentration of home stagers.
  • Economic downturns: Real estate market slowdowns can impact demand.
  • Logistics: Managing furniture storage and transportation can be complex.

Opportunities

  • Real estate growth: A thriving real estate market increases demand for home staging.
  • Virtual staging: Digital technologies offer new opportunities in home staging.
  • Property flipping: A surge in property flipping has led to more home staging needs.

Step 2: Develop a Business Plan for Your Own Home Staging Business

how to start a home staging business

Creating a business plan for your home staging business is a crucial step. This plan should cover everything from your business model to financial projections, serving as a roadmap for your venture’s success.

Defining Your Business Model and Services

Decide on the kind of home staging services you want to offer. This could range from consultations for DIY-minded clients to full-service staging, which includes furniture selection, design, and implementation.

Financial Projections and Budgeting

An important aspect of your business plan is determining financial projections. This includes:

  • Startup costs: Initial investment for furniture, wholesale home decor , transport, storage, etc.
  • Potential revenue: Based on market rates and your business model.
  • Projected expenses: Ongoing costs like insurance, marketing, and operational expenses.

Step 3: Legal and Regulatory Requirements for a Home Staging Company

how to start a home staging business

Like any venture, starting a home staging business requires meeting certain legal and regulatory requirements, including business registration, licensing, and insurance.

Business Registration and Licensing

Register your business and obtain necessary licenses. Requirements vary but may include:

  • Business registration: Register your business with state and local authorities.
  • Sales tax license: If you’ll be selling goods, a sales tax license may be necessary.
  • Home-based business permit: Some localities require this if operating from home.

Insurance and Liability Considerations

Insurance is essential for any business. Business insurance coverage for a home staging company may include:

  • General liability insurance: Covers injury or damage claims.
  • Property insurance: Protects business property like furniture.
  • Professional liability insurance: Covers claims related to professional advice or services.

Step 4: Establish Relationships with Real Estate Agents

how to start a home staging business

Building strong relationships with real estate agents is a must for any home staging business, as they can provide a steady stream of clients.

Networking and Marketing to Real Estate Agents

Effective networking and marketing can help build fruitful relationships with real estate agents. Strategies include:

  • Real estate events: Attend open houses, property showings, and industry events.
  • Partnerships: Develop strategic partnerships with local real estate agencies.
  • Referral program: Create a referral program to encourage agents to refer you to clients.

Collaboration and Referral Opportunities

Working closely with real estate agents can create opportunities for business expansion. Here are a few strategies:

  • Referral incentives: Offer agents incentives for referring your business to clients.
  • Co-marketing: Join forces with agents for marketing efforts, like open houses.
  • Educational presentations: Offer to do presentations for agents about the benefits of home staging.

Step 5: Building a Portfolio and Marketing Your Home Staging Business

how to start a home staging business

A strong portfolio and an effective marketing strategy are keys to attracting clients and growing your business.

Creating a Professional Portfolio

Creating a high-quality portfolio is essential. Here are some tips:

  • Before-and-after photos: Showcase the transformation achieved by your staging.
  • Variety of homes: Include various types and sizes of homes to show your versatility.
  • Testimonials: Include customer reviews and testimonials for added credibility.

Social Media and Online Presence

A strong online presence can help attract potential clients. Tips include:

  • Website: Create a professional website showcasing your portfolio and services.
  • Social media: Use platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to showcase your work.
  • SEO: Optimize your website and content for search engines to improve visibility.

Offline Marketing Strategies

While online marketing is crucial, don’t forget about traditional, offline strategies, such as:

  • Networking: Attend industry events and local business gatherings.
  • Print materials: Use brochures, business cards, and flyers to advertise your services.
  • Local media: Consider advertising in local newspapers and magazines.

how to start a home staging business

FAQs: How to Start a Successful Home Staging Business

How much do home stagers make.

Income for home stagers varies based on factors like location, experience, and the scope of services offered. Some home stagers charge an hourly rate, while others charge per project.

What Qualifications Do I Need to Start a Home Staging Business?

While no specific qualifications are required, skills in interior design and a keen understanding of the real estate market can be beneficial. Some home stagers opt for certifications from home staging organizations to enhance their credibility. Additionally, though home staging is among the top offline business ideas , it can help to be familiar with online design programs and digital marketing platforms.

How Do I Price My Home Staging Services?

Pricing depends on various factors, including the size and complexity of the project, local market rates, and your unique service offerings. Some stagers charge a flat fee, while others may charge an hourly rate.

What Are the Most Common Challenges Faced by Home Staging Business Owners?

Challenges include market saturation in certain areas, potential slowdowns in the real estate market, and logistical complexities related to furniture storage and transportation. There are also many marketing and branding mistakes to avoid , including selecting a confusing name or opting for brand graphics that don’t appeal to your target customers.

How Can I Stand Out in the Home Staging Industry?

Differentiating your services, showcasing a strong portfolio, and building solid relationships within the real estate industry can help you stand out. Additionally, leveraging technology and staying abreast of industry trends can give you a competitive edge.

How Much Do Home Staging Professionals Charge?

Charges can vary based on the services offered, the property size, and the project’s complexity. It’s crucial to research local market rates to price your services competitively.

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How to Start a Home Staging Business

start a home staging business

Starting a home staging business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful home staging business.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a home staging business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a Home Staging Business :

  • Choose the Name for Your Home Staging Business
  • Develop Your Home Staging Business Plan
  • Choose the Legal Structure for Your Home Staging Business
  • Secure Startup Funding for Your Home Staging Business (If Needed)
  • Secure a Location for Your Business
  • Register Your Home Staging Business with the IRS
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get a Business Credit Card
  • Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
  • Get Business Insurance for Your Home Staging Business
  • Buy or Lease the Right Home Staging Business Equipment
  • Develop Your Home Staging Business Marketing Materials
  • Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Home Staging Business
  • Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Home Staging Business

The first step to starting a home staging business is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your own home staging business:

  • Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
  • Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
  • Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your home staging business.

2. Develop Your Home Staging Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a home staging business is to develop your home staging business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your local real estate market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

  • Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your home staging business.
  • Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your home staging business and what type of home staging business you operate. For example, are you a traditional home staging business, home staging consulting service, home staging furniture rental business, or a home staging photography business?
  • Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the home staging industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
  • Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
  • Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
  • Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
  • Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
  • Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
  • Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
  • Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your home staging business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
  • Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
  • Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
  • Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
  • What startup costs will you incur?
  • How will your home staging business make money?
  • What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
  • Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

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3. choose the legal structure for your home staging business.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your own home staging business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a legal business entity in which the owner of the home staging business and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small business owners. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a home staging business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a home staging business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a home staging business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your home staging business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

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4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Home Staging Business (If Needed)

In developing your home staging business plan , you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a home staging business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a home staging business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

To find a location for your home staging business, start by looking for areas that are popular for home buying and selling. Try to find a commercial space that is close to these areas. Additionally, consider the cost of rent and whether the area has a lot of competition from other business owners. You’ll also want to make sure that the space is large enough to accommodate your staging equipment and furniture.

6. Register Your Home Staging Business with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your home staging business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

  • Identify and contact the bank you want to use
  • Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
  • Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
  • Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your home staging business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

A business license is required to start a home staging business. In addition, you may need a contractor’s license, and other permits depending on your location and the scope of your business.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Home Staging Business

The types of insurance you need to operate a home staging business will depend on the type of business.

Some business insurance policies you should consider for your home staging business include:

  • General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
  • Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
  • Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
  • Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
  • Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs. 

11. Buy or Lease the Right Home Staging Business Equipment

To start a home staging business, you will need some basic equipment. This includes a computer, phone, and printer. You may also want to consider investing in some furniture and accessories to help stage homes.

12. Develop Your Home Staging Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your home staging business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

  • Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your home staging business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
  • Website : Likewise, a professional home staging business website provides potential customers with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
  • Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your home staging business.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Home Staging Business

You will need software to manage your business finances, including invoicing, tracking expenses, and generating reports. You’ll also need a customer relationship management (CRM) system to track leads and customers. Additionally, you’ll need a project management tool to help you plan and coordinate your staging projects.

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your home staging business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

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How to Start a Home Staging Business FAQs

Is it hard to start a home staging business.

No, it's not hard to start a home staging business, but there are some important steps to take in order to make sure your business is successful. The most important step is to create a business plan. This document will outline your business goals and strategies, and how you plan on achieving them.

How can I start a home staging business with no experience?

To start a home staging business with no experience, you can begin by doing some research on the industry. There are a lot of resources online that can help you get started. You can also find classes or workshops that can help you learn the basics of home staging.

Another option is to find a mentor. There are plenty of experienced local real estate agents and home stagers who would be happy to help you get started. They can teach you the ropes and give you advice on how to grow your business.

What type of home staging business is most profitable?

The type of home staging business that is most profitable is one that specializes in preparing homes for sale. This type of business can help homeowners get their homes ready to sell quickly and for a higher price.

How much does it cost to start a home staging business?

The cost of starting a home staging business can vary depending on the size and scope of the business. However, in general, you can expect to spend between $1,000 and $5,000 to get started. This includes items such as business licenses, marketing materials, furniture and equipment, and training.

What are the ongoing expenses for a home staging business?

The ongoing expenses for a home staging business can include advertising, marketing, and website design and maintenance. Other expenses may include employee wages, insurance, and rent or lease payments.

How does a home staging business make money?

A home staging company can make money by charging homeowners or home sellers for its services. Home staging businesses usually charge a percentage of the total cost of the home, or they may charge by the hour for the staging jobs they complete . Some businesses also charge for their furniture and accessories.

Is owning a home staging business profitable?

Yes, owning a home staging company is profitable because it is a low cost business to start, there is a high demand for the service, especially in the real estate business , and many home staging companies are home-based businesses. Many home stagers also offer complementary services such as interior design , which increases their profits.

Why do home staging businesses fail?

There are many reasons home staging companies can fail. One reason may be that the business does not have a clear target market. Another reason may be that the business doesn't differentiate itself enough from its competitors. Additionally, the company may not have a good marketing strategy. Finally, the business may not have a solid financial foundation.

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What’s in a Home Staging Business Plan?

  • Last Updated: September 2, 2022

What’s In A Home Staging Business Plan?

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There are a few differing viewpoints on creating a home staging business plan. Some people say “if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail” and advocate heavily for creating a business plan.

Others will say it’s just fluff work to keep you distracted from actual work, such as sorting inventory and cold-calling realtors.

No matter what your view on this is, it’s a good idea to quickly review what is in a home staging business plan if for nothing else but to ensure you have thought about your business thoroughly before diving in headfirst.

Let’s take a look at what’s generally in a business plan, and how these sections relate to home staging.

You’ll find our home staging business plan PDF available for download in our resources section .

Recommend Sections in a Home Staging Business Plan

Executive summary, business details, what we do and how we do it, business background, our goal/mission, our strategy, current and planned team, market analysis, competitor analysis, swot – internal and external forces, launch strategy, ongoing home staging marketing strategy, financial plan, legal and regulatory compliance.

Every home staging business plan is going to follow a different format, but in general, they should all cover the same topics.

Marketing strategy and budget

  • Assets held and planned
  • Business continuity planning

Let’s take a look at each of these sections…

All home staging business plans have a different purpose.

They can be great tools to get your own thoughts down on paper to make sure you’ve considered everything before starting your home staging business. In these cases, you are the audience of your own business plan.

In other cases, business plans are used to seek out new partners or investments, and in these cases, your audience is obviously other people .

Your target audience will dictate what you put in your executive summary.

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Generally, you’ll want to give a brief overview of the business so it becomes clear in your head. Touch on topics such as the current market, your goal, existing competitors, and a brief comment on your marketing/outreach strategy.

Since these are all topics that you’ll cover in detail later in your business plan, it is often a good idea to leave your executive summary until the end.

This section of your home staging business plan doesn’t need too much explanation – it is simply the key points of the business. Include a table with information such as:

  • Business name
  • Date it was established
  • The legal structure of the business
  • Contact name
  • Contact number
  • Email address
  • Physical address
  • Postal address
  • Linkedin page
  • Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages
  • Youtube account

For external readers (eg potential investors or partners) this section simply provides details of your home staging business so that they can look you up and verify they are dealing with a legit entity, and also find out more about you.

Explain what your business actually does. You might understand home staging inside-out, but do your readers?

Briefly spend a moment (on one page) to explain:

  • Who are your target customers? Are they realtors, property developers, or private individuals?
  • What you actually do? Explain the service you provide.
  • How you do it?
  • Why this service is valuable to your customers?
  • How do you plan to be different from other home staging companies in your area?

Do your best to keep this short and to the point.

Each bullet point can be just a few paragraphs or even a few sentences. This section should give the reader their “ah-ha!” moment so they can continue to the rest of the document with a good overall understanding of your plan.

Split this section of your home staging business plan into two: the business history, and the current position.

Business history: Partners and investors will want to know the background of the business, and also your own personal journey. Where have you come from, and how did you get to this point in time?

Summarize where the business idea came from.

  • Are there any major milestones in the life of the business to date?
  • What was the initial investment?
  • Do you have some existing staff members worth mentioning?
  • Do you have any key clients or relationships that are bringing you regular sales?

Current position: What does the business look like today, assuming it is already established?

  • How many locations do you have?
  • What areas do you currently serve?
  • How many employees are there, and how many customers on an average month?
  • What is the current turnover of the business?
  • Does the business owe any money? To who?

This section can be as short as one or two paragraphs. What is your vision for the business? It’s best to be precise here (look up what a SMART goal is). You might state something along the lines of “Provide exceptional home staging services in the Orlando area and grow to a business servicing 40 clients a month within 5 years”.

Notice how it’s a big, lofty goal? It’s not “Get a customer within 3 weeks”.

Your goal or vision in this section could be split into a goal for this year, the next three years, or even a ten-year goal.

Now you’ve set your main goal for the business, what is the strategy to achieve this? Outline the main steps or jobs required to set you on the right track for achieving this goal.

Do you need to hire more people? Or reorganize your team?

Do you need to venture into another market? This could be a neighboring town or suburb, or perhaps focusing on a different section of your existing market (eg if you haven’t approached property developers yet, should you be?).

What aspects of your marketing need to change or grow to reach your goals? Can you do this yourself, or do you need a staff member or an advertising agency?

Tip: The rest of your business plan is going to go into the explanation of each of the steps you describe here, so sometimes it’s best to leave this section till the end. Then you’ll have the answers to include on this page.

Many home staging businesses start off with just the founders. They manage to generate leads, write proposals, delivery, the warehouse, the actual staging, and more.

But if you plan to grow, soon enough you’ll need to delegate some roles and consider taking on part-time or full-time staff.

When it comes to home staging, your team is one of your biggest assets. They interact directly with clients and put their own personal style on each project they complete.

If you are planning to use your home staging business plan to find partners or raise capital, then keep in mind that many investors make their decisions based on the strength of the team and the people leading the business.

Split this section into two:

  • Your current team : Include their name, role title, key responsibilities, qualifications, experience, and track record within the industry. If your business is already 3 or more people, you can include a small organizational chart showing how the roles all fit together.
  • You planned team structure: You’ve set your business goals and long-term vision – now what staff do you need in place to achieve this? Create a new organization chart showing these roles, then briefly bullet point the new role titles, and their key responsibilities.

If you find your current staff or founders don’t have any qualifications in this industry, consider taking a home staging certification course from The Home Staging Institute . They can be completed in just a few weeks of study and will help showcase that you have expertise in the field of home staging. The courses are affordable too, starting at just $177.

In this section, you can also note any mentors, consultants, and advisors you are currently using or plan to use in the future.

The market analysis section of your home staging business plan can be one of the larger sections, and often requires a fair bit of thought and research.

There are five sections that you should consider including in this part of the plan, as follows:

  • Market research : Explain the research you have undertaken to build this market analysis plan. What methods have you used? Do you plan to build ongoing market research into your daily business tasks? This section is where you share how you got your market knowledge so the reader has confidence in you you are going to tell them in the next four sections.
  • Market opportunity : Describe the gap in the current home staging market that you’ve recognized. Ideally, you won’t be striving to be “just another home staging company” and can be more precise. For example, the gap might be “We’ve found the Portland area is underserved for mid to high-end staging companies for the premium real estate market”. Then explain whether any competitors are likely to be aware of this opportunity, and are they making any attempts to enter this market? Or do you feel they are blind to this opportunity? What potential revenue does this market opportunity represent?
  • Market structure: Explain where your business will fit into the current competitive landscape. Are there any inefficiencies in the current market that will give you an edge over the competitors?
  • Market size & outlook: This particular section often contains a bit of guesswork. Do your best to understand the size of the market. How many homes need staging in your target area each month? How many home staging companies are currently serving this demand? Is the market saturated, and you’re going to try to take business from competitors? Or is the market underdeveloped, and you need to convince people that don’t currently use home staging services about the benefits of staging their homes for sale? Use websites such as Zillow to figure out how many homes are currently for sale in the postcodes you are targeting. What percentage of these do you feel are currently using a home staging service? This will give you an idea of whether your area has demand for 50 staging jobs per month, or 500.
  • Customer mindsets & behaviors: Who are your customers, and what are their current buying behaviors? If you are targeting realtors, how do they choose which home staging company to use? How will you target these customers so they begin using your services?

Within your home staging business plan you’re going to want to spend a bit of time getting a thorough understanding of the other home staging companies operating in your area.

I find this part of the business plan the most interesting. All you need to do is open up Google and search for other home staging companies in your area.

Visit their websites and note down who they are, their strengths and weaknesses, and start to form a picture in your head about where your home staging brand fits into the picture.

Understanding where you fit into the market helps to shape your business strategy. You’ll understand where the gaps are in the market that you can serve, and you’ll identify areas where your competitors are weak which you can exploit.

  • Maybe they have poor websites, and you can provide a better experience?
  • Maybe they have overly complex pricing structures, and you’re going to offer simple packages
  • Are their Google Reviews poor, and you can offer better customer service?
  • Or perhaps there aren’t any competitors serving the geographic area you plan to?
  • Do the current home staging companies have outdated furniture and accessories?

Whatever weaknesses you can find, make a note of how you can do better.

On this page of your home staging business plan you might just like to use a few tables in the following format:

[Name of competitor]

[Summarise your strategy for competing with that business]

It can be as simple as that. Write the name of your competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses, then briefly explain how you plan to compete with that business.

A SWOT analysis is something taught in all business schools and is an important part of starting any new business. SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

Taking a moment to think about your new business’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats demonstrates that you have considered any forces that may impact your business whether they be internal or external.

Below is an example of how you can layout the SWOT analysis in your own home staging business plan:

Strengths (Internal force)

Explain here what you do well, or what your ‘secret sauce’ is that’ll make you stand out from the competitors. Do you have a good reputation or a strong team? Perhaps you have been a realtor and know all the local realtors. You might mention previous interior design or decorator experience. Then in the next column explain what you’ll do to capitalize on these strengths .

Weaknesses (Internal force)

Explain what could negatively impact your business, from an internal point of view. What don’t you have that you may need? What don’t you do well, or think you’ll have to do poorly initiall y ? Perhaps you have a poor reputation, or no reputation at all if this industry is new to you. Are you understaffed and lacking customer service or warehouse staff? Then once you have listed all your weaknesses, you’ll need to briefly state what you’ll do to overcome those weaknesses.

Opportunities (External force)

Explain what could positively impact your home staging business from the outside. How will you maximize the chance of this opportunity occurring, and how can you make the most of it? Perhaps you know a local home stager looking to join a new business and they have an extensive network and great reputation, and they have indicated they will move to your new company. Or maybe a local real estate agent has indicated they are looking for a new home staging partnership, and you are good friends with the owner. Outline in this section how you’ll make the most of these opportunities.

Threats (External force)

Explain what you feel could negatively impact your business. Your home staging business plan needs to focus on what could make your business struggle, as well as thrive, so use this section to be honest about any external threats such as law changes, changing market conditions, or struggles to find good staff.

In this section of your home staging business plan, you need to detail your strategy for both launching your business, and also your marketing strategy once your business is up and running.

‘Marketing’ can be defined quite broadly. It isn’t just where you will put your ads. It can encompass everything from your service packages to pricing, to your website, as well as your ads and promotions.

It’s a good idea to split this section into two well-defined categories: a launch strategy, and an ongoing marketing strategy. Both of these strategies will require different tactics, which we’ll look into further below.

Explain here your launch marketing strategy and note any budget required to execute this strategy. Some people say “build it, and they will come”, but that doesn’t often apply to starting a new home staging business. You are unlikely to grow quickly by relying on word of mouth unless you are already well connected and known within the real estate industry.

For your launch strategy, you’ll need to consider:

  • Branding your home staging business (logo, stationary, colors etc)
  • Creating a home staging website
  • Deciding how to have a portfolio ready for customers to view
  • How to charge for your home staging services
  • What networking you will do (such as calling or visiting realtors)
  • What your initial marketing looks like (Google Search Ads?)
  • Whether you will grow a newsletter and how you will get subscribers

Once you’ve launched your home staging business and got your feet under the table so to speak, you can start focusing on ongoing marketing activities.

How do you plan to continually get fresh inquiries and grow your business? What portion of your revenue will you dedicate to marketing? What will this budget be spent on?

For many home staging businesses their ongoing marketing strategy is a little bit of each of the following:

  • Continually adding your best work to your portfolio – because many of your potential new clients will view this before enquiring.
  • Networking with realtors to keep your services top of mind. If you don’t stay in touch there is a good chance someone else could swoop in and be their preferred vendor
  • Working on search engine optimization so that when people search in Google and Bing for home staging services in your area, your website shows up.
  • A paid ads channel. This could be something like Google Ads or Facebook Ads. We’ve found the best results from Google Ads.

This section can be one of the more difficult parts of creating a home staging business plan, but it’s essential to have a good understanding of your potential revenue and expenses.

After all, if you’re not making a profit you won’t be in business for long!

Use this section to outline (at a high level) your forecasted costs, revenue, profit, and loss.

Estimate when you will break even. If you spend $20,000 setting up the business, how many jobs are needed to pay off this setup cost? How long do you expect this to take?

You can use a few simple tables if the business plan is to simply get your own head around the process of starting the business, but you might need more detailed financial plans if you need a business loan or plan to raise investor cash.

Revenue forecasts:

Profit and loss forecast:

Forecasting your profit and loss is difficult for an established business, and they have a track record they can use to predict the future! So doing so for a home staging start-up, with no track record, and feel near impossible.

But rest assured, you just need to do your best estimate.

Every business has some form of legal ad regulatory compliance obligations.

You don’t need to be a certified home stager to work in this industry, but a home staging certification does teach you a lot and helps turn more inquiries into customers.

Check your local laws about registering as a business, tax obligations, and any permits you may need to operate. Since each country has different laws ad requirements for starting a business we can’t cover them all here, but a quick online search will point you in the right direction.

home staging business plan

Your home staging business plan is a thorough document that outlines the long-term vision of your business, and your strategy to achieve it.

It’s a document that you shouldn’t do once, then lock away to never look at again. We encourage you to revisit it monthly or quarterly to check in whether you are still on the right track, or if your goals are still relevant. Treat it as a living document that you can edit and amend at any point in time.

Your business is always evolving, and your business plan can too!

If you want to download our home staging business plan PDF head to our resources section. You’ll find the business plan link there, along with a number of other home staging resources available for free or at a small price.

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  • How to Start a Profitable Home Staging Business [11 Steps]
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How to Write a Home Staging Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your home staging business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your home staging business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a home staging business:

Our mission at Home Staging is to provide an unmatched and extraordinary experience for homeowners, real estate agents, and other clients. We strive to transform ordinary homes into beautiful, stylish spaces that meet the needs of potential buyers and leave a lasting impression. We will strive to deliver exceptional quality, service, and value while providing a warm, friendly environment and ensuring our clients’ satisfaction.

Image of Zenbusiness business formation

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Home Staging Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your home staging business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

  • What is my business?
  • What are the products and/or services that I offer?
  • Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
  • How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
  • How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

Image of Zenbusiness business formation

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your home staging business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your home staging business includes the following elements:

Target market

  • Who is your target market?
  • What do these customers have in common?
  • How many of them are there?
  • How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

  • Who are your current customers? 
  • Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
  • How can their experience with your home staging business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

  • How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
  • Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
  • Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
  • How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

  • Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
  • Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
  • What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

  • Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
  • What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
  • What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
  • How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

business plan for home staging company

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

  • The equipment and facilities needed
  • Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
  • Financial requirements for each step
  • Milestones & KPIs
  • Location of your business
  • Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a home staging business?

  • Basic Furniture: Chairs, tables, couches, etc.
  • Décor: Wall art, rugs, lamps, accessories
  • Office Supplies: A laptop or desktop computer with internet access, basic office supplies (pens, paper, stapler, etc.), an accounting system
  • Business Licenses: Depending on where you live, you will need a business license to operate a Home Staging business.

5. Management & Organization of Your Home Staging Business.

The second part of your home staging business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

  • How many employees you need in order to run your home staging business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
  • The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
  • How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Home Staging Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a home staging business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a home staging business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your home staging business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your home staging business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your home staging business plan:

  • Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
  • Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
  • Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
  • Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
  • Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
  • Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

business plan for home staging company

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Staging Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a home staging business.

A business plan for a home staging business can provide entrepreneurs with a roadmap for launching and operating their business. It can help them establish realistic financial goals and objectives, identify potential customers, determine marketing strategies, consider the competitive landscape, analyze their target markets, develop a pricing structure and outline operations policies. A well-crafted plan can also provide investors or lenders with convincing evidence of the potential success of the venture.

Who should you ask for help with your home staging business plan?

You can ask a business consultant, such as a certified accountant or a professional business coach, for help developing your home staging business plan. Additionally, many organizations offer free resources and guidelines for creating a business plan. These include the Small Business Administration and SCORE, both of which offer step-by-step instructions and templates for creating an effective plan.

Can you write a home staging business plan yourself?

Yes, you can write a home staging business plan yourself. There are many resources available to help you create a successful business plan for your home staging business, including online templates and resources from small business organizations such as the Small Business Administration. Writing a business plan involves researching the industry, analyzing competition, setting financial projections, and outlining a strategy for success. It is important to take the time to thoroughly research the industry and competition in order to ensure that your business plan is accurate and comprehensive. Once you have completed your research and outlined your plan, you can use online templates to finalize your document.

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I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

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Staging Diva

Information, Tools + Inspiration to Grow Your Home Staging Business

How to Make a Home Staging Business Plan

Written by Debra Gould -

home staging business plan

This is a short document that outlines things like your getting-started budget, what services you’ll offer, and how much money you expect to make.

A business plan might sound scary if you’re someone with little business experience. Or it might be exciting if you’re a natural-born planner!

Regardless, I encourage all my Staging Diva home staging students not to get hung up on big formal plans.

If you follow the business model that I teach in my home staging courses , you’ll realize that I scaled my home staging business to making up to $10,000 a month on a shoestring budget.

Keep reading to learn how you can write your own plan!

Steps to Make a Home Staging Business Plan

1. choose a name for your staging business.

I recommend that every new home stager starts by sitting down and thinking of a name for their business. This will get you excited about beginning to promote your business, and better yet it will make things feel official!

It’s also an opportunity to consider your business’s personality. Do you want to choose a company name that evokes elegance, or perhaps something a little more fun? Are you going to use a tag line that goes with your company name?

Check out my tips for choosing a home staging company name  if you get stuck.

2. Decide on Your Budget to Get Started

Home staging is one of the least expensive businesses to start,  so this doesn’t need to be a big part of your home staging business plan.

Regardless, make a budget so you know how much you can spend on things like home staging training , getting a logo and business cards, marketing materials, etc.

If you can’t afford much right now, that’s okay! Because you’ll be your own boss, you can grow your staging business at whatever pace feels comfortable for you.

And when you follow my Staging Diva Business Model , you’ll need very little money to get started. You’ll be able to start on a shoe string, just like I did.

Whatever you do, make sure you don’t waste any money on the most common home staging business traps:

  • Paying for expensive home staging certifications:  Home staging is an unregulated industry, which means that companies promising to give you “official” credentials are making false claims.
  • Investing in a home staging inventory: This is totally unnecessary, and will cut into your bottom line.
  • Spending money on magazine ads, newspaper ads, and door-to-door postcards or flyers. There are tons of no-cost marketing things you can do that are not only free, but work even better!
  • Giving away your time with free home estimates, or significantly discounting your services to real estate agents.

3. Make a List of Services to Offer Home Staging Clients

There are many ways to be a successful home stager. A key part of your home staging business plan is outlining what kind of business you want to have.

For example, some home stagers specialize in vacant properties that require furniture to be brought in.

Personally, while I’ve staged tons of vacant homes over the years, I like to focus on home staging consultations for owner-occupied homes. They’re fast, simple and pay well. Plus, I love choosing colors and rearranging furniture that’s already in a home!

You should also take this opportunity to consider how much money a home stager makes .

Many home staging projects involve doing a single meeting, so make sure you’re not the cheapest stager in your area! Otherwise you won’t make any money, and you’ll attract clients that don’t value your services.

With the right pricing strategy, many home stagers make more from 2 or 3 staging projects per month than they did working full-time jobs!

I teach my exact pricing strategy in the  Staging Diva Home Staging Business Training Program because it’s so important.

4. Brainstorm How to Get the Word Out

Staging Diva Simple Marketing Plan Cover

Even if you answered “no” to both of these questions, there are tons of cheap ways to spread the word about your home staging business .

The two most important parts of your home staging marketing will be your website and home staging portfolio.  Click here to learn how you can build a portfolio in one weekend!

If you’re really stuck on how to market your home staging business, check out my  Simple Marketing Plan Companion .

It keeps things super simple! I’m all about one page plans rather than getting bogged down writing big reports, you’ll likely never read! 😎

Debra Gould

Internationally recognized home staging expert Debra Gould created the Staging Diva Home Staging Business Training Program to teach others how to earn a living doing something they love. She has staged millions of dollars worth of real estate and is the author of several best-selling guides . With 30,000+ students in 24 countries, Debra is celebrated as one of the most influential people in the home staging industry. She appears on: HGTV, CBS Radio, CNNMoney, The Wall Street Journal, Woman's Day, House & Home, Style at Home, GlobalTV, This Old House and more.

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Reader interactions.

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September 13, 2021 at 7:11 pm

i am in the beginning stages of starting up my home staging business. My business is now incorporated and I want as low possible start up cost. I don’t want inventory only a small amount for start up. Any Advice?

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September 14, 2021 at 3:12 pm

Hi Sukhy, thanks for commenting. You are absolutely right to want to keep your start up costs low. That’s the right way to go. I teach a complete business model for home stagers and in there I share in detail how you don’t need any of your own furniture or accessories to be a home stager. I’ve run my own staging business that way since 2002 and teaching others how to do the same since 2005. Staging Diva Graduates make a profit from their very first project and they have a way simpler business to run because they don’t have the debt that comes with inventory, among other things.

I encourage you to check out the program , it won’t duplicate anything you’ve learned elsewhere. I teach a comprehensive and unique approach to starting and growing a home staging business.

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A Touch of Business

How to Start a Home Staging Business

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Home Staging Business Points to Consider Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to start a home staging business.

In addition, we will give you an overview of what you can expect from operating a home staging business and help you make better decisions and gain clarity.

You can access the latest resources in our “Knowledge Is Power” section. Which can be used during the startup phase and once your home staging business is fully operational.

There is an abundance of information available to explore. If you like this post, consider sharing it with others and bookmarking it for future reference.

Let’s get started with the steps.

The Steps to Take To Start Your Home Staging Business

Below are the steps to starting a home staging business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

  • An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
  • Home Staging Business Overview
  • Researching Your Home Staging Business
  • Looking at Financials
  • Creating Your Mission Statement
  • Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
  • Choose a Home Staging Business Name
  • Register Your Company
  • Create Your Corporate Identity
  • Writing a Business Plan
  • Banking Considerations
  • Getting the Funds for Your Operation
  • Software Setup
  • Business Insurance Considerations
  • Supplier and Service Provider Considerations
  • Setting Your Prices
  • Physical Setup
  • Creating a Website
  • Create an External Support Team
  • Hiring Employees
  • Getting Customers Through the Door

1. An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

a. ) Owning and Operating Your Own Business

Entrepreneurial Endeavors: Beyond Employment

Owning and operating a business represents a distinct departure from traditional employment, bringing increased responsibilities and challenges.

The transition involves shedding the constraints of a nine-to-five workday, potentially requiring long hours of dedication. As the decision-maker, you bear the burden of addressing issues that inevitably surface in your domain.

Critical Self-Assessment

Before embarking on your journey into the realm of home staging entrepreneurship, it’s imperative to engage in critical self-assessment.

Consider whether the role of a business owner aligns with your aspirations and temperament. Assess your readiness to embrace the demands and uncertainties that come with business ownership.

This introspection ensures that you embark on your venture clearly, understanding the responsibilities and commitments, setting the stage for informed and confident decision-making.

See Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify points for a new business owner.

b.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Business

Balancing Pros and Cons in Business

In the realm of entrepreneurship, there exists a delicate equilibrium between advantages and disadvantages.

While the benefits of owning and operating a business are undeniable, it’s a common pitfall to fixate solely on the rewards, overlooking the inherent challenges.

The Need for a Holistic Perspective

To embark on a business journey with clarity and resilience, embracing a holistic perspective is imperative.

This entails a thorough examination of both the perks and potential pitfalls that lie ahead.

Recognizing and understanding the challenges enables proactive preparation, reducing the element of surprise.

Preparedness for Success

By acquainting yourself with the potential issues that may arise, you fortify your readiness for the entrepreneurial path.

This proactive approach empowers you to navigate hurdles with greater efficacy, fostering a foundation for long-term success in the dynamic landscape of business ownership.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

c.) Passion a Key Ingredient For Success

Passion: The Cornerstone of Success

In the world of entrepreneurship, finding a vocation that aligns with your passion is a profound blessing. Passion is not just a desirable trait; it’s the bedrock of your success and the unwavering force that propels you forward.

Passion as a Problem-Solving Catalyst

When your heart is deeply invested in your business, encountering obstacles doesn’t deter you; it prompts you to seek solutions. Conversely, lacking passion can lead to an inclination to evade challenges rather than confront them.

The Crucial Role of Passion in Home Staging

Passion is especially critical in the realm of owning and operating a home staging business. Consider this hypothetical scenario: a life of abundant wealth and possessions, free from financial constraints.

Would you still choose to immerse yourself in home staging, even if it meant working without monetary reward?

If your resounding answer is “yes,” it signifies an unwavering passion for the home staging business. Your commitment is a compass pointing you in the right direction. However, if your response is “no,” it prompts introspection.

Choosing Passion Over Compromise

If you have an alternative calling that stirs your soul more profoundly, it may warrant exploration.

Recognizing and nurturing your passion is not just a prerequisite but a pivotal determinant of success in home staging entrepreneurship’s demanding yet rewarding realm.

In summary, a profound passion for owning and operating a home staging business is your most potent asset, providing the foundation for your journey toward success in this dynamic field.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business .

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Home Staging Business

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running a home staging business.

Note:  This section contains an abundance of information that you will want to review. It will give you an overview of what to expect, and it’s worth reading this section.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Home Staging Business

A home staging business revolves around the art of preparing residential properties for sale, with the primary goal of maximizing their visual appeal to potential buyers.

It’s a multifaceted profession combining interior design , real estate , and marketing elements. The ultimate aim is to transform ordinary spaces into captivating and desirable homes, thereby facilitating faster and more lucrative property sales.

Day-to-Day Operations

1. Property Assessments:

A typical day in a home staging business often begins with property assessments. Stagers visit homes to evaluate their current state and determine the required improvements.

This involves analyzing layout, lighting, furniture, color schemes, and decor.

2. Design Planning:

Design conceptualization is a crucial aspect. Stagers develop a creative vision for each property, envisioning how to enhance its marketability.

This includes selecting appropriate furnishings, decor, and color palettes tailored to the target demographic.

3. Procurement and Rental:

Once the design plan is in place, stagers source, purchase, or rent the necessary furniture and decor items.

This involves negotiating with suppliers, managing budgets, and ensuring timely deliveries.

4. Staging Execution:

The heart of the operation lies in the actual staging process. This entails arranging and decorating spaces according to the predetermined design plan.

It may also involve decluttering, cleaning, and minor repairs to ensure the property is in pristine condition.

5. Photography and Marketing:

Capturing the staged property through professional photography is crucial. Stagers coordinate with photographers to showcase the home’s transformation.

They also collaborate with real estate agents for effective property marketing.

6. Client Meetings:

Client interaction is pivotal. Stagers engage in consultations with property owners, discussing the staging plan, budget, and timeline.

Clear communication and rapport-building are essential to meet client expectations.

7. Business Administration:

Beyond the creative aspect, running a home staging business involves administrative tasks like bookkeeping, client invoicing, and scheduling.

Managing contracts and ensuring legal compliance are also integral to daily operations.

8. Networking and Industry Updates:

Stagers regularly connect with real estate professionals, suppliers, and other industry stakeholders to stay current with market trends and expand their network.

In summary, a home staging business entails a blend of creative design, practical execution, client interaction, and business management.

Day-to-day activities involve transforming properties into market-ready showcases, all while keeping an eye on industry trends and maintaining a well-organized operation.

b.) Home Staging Business Models

Types of Home Staging Business Setups and Business Models

When venturing into the home staging industry, selecting the right business setup and model is paramount for your success.

Here are some standard setups and their associated business models:

Independent Home Staging Professional (Sole Proprietorship):

  • Business Model : Solo operators handle all aspects of staging, from consultations to design and implementation.
  • Pros : Full control, minimal overhead, direct client relationships.
  • Cons : Limited scalability, reliance on personal skills and time.

Home Staging Partnership:

  • Business Model : Two or more staging professionals join forces, sharing responsibilities and profits.
  • Pros : Diverse skill sets, shared workload, potential for growth.
  • Cons : Shared decision-making, potential for conflicts.

Home Staging Company or Agency:

  • Business Model : Employ a team of stagers and support staff to handle multiple projects.
  • Pros : Scalability, broader services, ability to take on larger projects.
  • Cons : Higher overhead costs and increased management demands.

Franchise Home Staging Business:

  • Business Model : Purchase a franchise with an established brand and business model.
  • Pros : Proven system, marketing support, brand recognition.
  • Cons : Initial franchise fees, ongoing royalty payments, limited autonomy.

Niche or Specialized Home Staging:

  • Business Model : Focus on a specific niche, such as luxury properties, eco-friendly staging, or vacation homes.
  • Pros : Targeted marketing, expert reputation, premium pricing.
  • Cons : Smaller market, potential seasonal fluctuations.

Online Home Staging Consultancy:

  • Business Model : Provide virtual staging advice and design plans to clients remotely.
  • Pros : Low overhead, wide geographic reach, flexible work schedule.
  • Cons : Competitive online market, potential for limited client interaction.

Hybrid Home Staging and Real Estate:

  • Business Model : Combine home staging services with real estate sales or rental property management.
  • Pros : Diversified income streams, synergy between services.
  • Cons : Increased workload, need for real estate licensing (in some regions).

In Conclusion:

Choosing a suitable business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching your model later can be challenging.

Focusing on a niche allows you to tailor your service to a specific group, becoming a specialist rather than trying to be a one-size-fits-all business.

Identifying a business model that aligns with your skills, goals, and market demand is essential for a smoother and more planned startup phase in the dynamic world of home staging.

c.) Challenges You Could Face When Starting and Operating a Home Staging Business

Challenges During the Startup Phase of a Home Staging Business

Launching a home staging business is an exciting venture, but it comes with its fair share of challenges.

Here are some common obstacles a home staging business owner may face during the startup phase:

  • Market Saturation: Entering a competitive market with established players can be daunting. Newcomers must find ways to differentiate themselves and carve a niche.
  • Limited Resources: Startup owners often contend with budget constraints. Balancing quality staging materials and marketing efforts within limited funds can be challenging.
  • Building a Client Base: Attracting those crucial first clients can be a slow process. Building a reputation and gaining trust takes time, often causing financial strain in the early stages.
  • Pricing Strategy: Determining the right pricing structure can be tricky. Charge too little, and you risk undervaluing your services; charge too much, and you may alienate potential clients.
  • Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Navigating local business regulations and obtaining necessary permits or licenses can be time-consuming and complex.
  • Marketing and Branding: Effective marketing is crucial, but it requires strategy and resources. Creating a strong brand identity and reaching the target audience is challenging for new businesses.
  • Networking and Partnerships: Building a network of real estate agents, builders, and other industry professionals is essential. However, establishing these connections from scratch can be slow.
  • Initial Investment: Investing in furniture, decor, and professional photography is essential for showcasing your skills. Managing these upfront costs can be challenging.

Challenges When the Home Staging Business is Operating

After overcoming the hurdles of startup, home staging business owners still face ongoing challenges:

  • Client Acquisition: Maintaining a consistent flow of clients is vital. Client acquisition remains an ongoing effort, and competition may intensify.
  • Market Trends: Staying updated with design and real estate trends is crucial. Falling behind can affect your relevancy and client appeal.
  • Client Expectations: Meeting and exceeding client expectations is a continuous challenge. Evolving client demands require adaptability and creativity.
  • Scheduling and Logistics : Managing multiple projects concurrently while ensuring timely delivery can be complex.
  • Economic Downturns: Economic fluctuations can impact the real estate market and, consequently, the home staging industry. Preparing for market downturns is essential for business sustainability.
  • Team Management: If you expand and hire a team, managing employees and maintaining quality control becomes paramount.
  • Seasonal Variability: Depending on the region, the home staging market may have seasonal fluctuations. Preparing for leaner periods is necessary.
  • Client Communication: Maintaining open and effective communication with clients, especially during project execution, is essential to address concerns and ensure satisfaction.
  • Regulatory Changes: Adapting to changes in local regulations or tax laws that affect the industry requires diligence.

Successful home staging businesses navigate these challenges with a mix of strategic planning, continuous learning, adaptability, and a commitment to delivering high-quality services.

d.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Home Staging Business

Setting up a home staging business is an exciting journey but requires thorough preparation.

By addressing the following questions, you’ll equip yourself to tackle potential challenges and pave the way for a successful venture:

  • Are you leaning towards an independent venture, a partnership, or a franchise model?
  • Do you have the skills in interior design, property assessment, and project management required for home staging?
  • Will you handle all tasks single-handedly, or do you plan to hire employees or contractors?
  • Are you inclined to manage daily operations yourself, or do you envision hiring a manager to oversee your business?
  • What’s your plan for attracting and retaining clients in a competitive market?
  • Have you identified your competitors and analyzed their strengths and weaknesses?
  • What strategies will you implement to ensure satisfied clients return and refer others?
  • Are you open to partnerships or seeking investors to scale your business?
  • How do you plan to finance your startup costs, and have you considered potential sources of funding?
  • What’s your projection for when your business will become profitable, and have you considered the time it may take?
  • How will you support yourself during the initial phase when the business may not generate substantial income?
  • What specific products and services will you offer to clients?
  • Have you conducted market research to ensure there’s demand for your service?
  • What will you provide that distinguishes you from competitors and appeals to clients?
  • How do you plan to position your home staging business in terms of pricing and service quality?

Starting a home staging business necessitates careful consideration of these critical questions.

Your responses will serve as the foundation for strategic planning, enabling you to build a business that aligns with your goals and caters to the needs of your target market.

3. Research

Essential Research for Your Home Staging Business

Launching a home staging business demands meticulous research to ensure you’re well-informed. Here’s why it’s crucial and how to find the right mentors:

Informed Decision-Making

Gaining quality information is paramount; it prevents unexpected surprises. Comprehensive research helps you comprehend the industry’s intricacies and challenges.

Mentorship Matters

Experienced home staging professionals can provide invaluable insights. They offer reliable information based on years of hands-on experience, guiding you toward success.

Seeking Guidance

Discovering the right mentors involves a strategic approach. Find guidance on identifying and approaching these experts in the linked article below. It’s an essential step in understanding the home staging business landscape.

To delve deeper into this crucial research phase, explore the full article, “An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start,” for comprehensive insights and guidance.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Supply, Demand, and Your Location

Navigating the Landscape of Home Staging Business: Supply, Demand, and Location

Before embarking on your home staging business journey, understanding the dynamics of supply, demand, and location is paramount.

Here’s a breakdown of these critical factors:

Assessing Demand: The Key to Viability

Demand is the lifeblood of any business. Regardless of the quality and pricing of your services, without adequate demand, your venture may flounder.

A lack of demand can lead to early closure and financial burdens that are challenging to overcome.

Market Saturation: The Competitive Landscape

In addition to demand, evaluate market saturation . Gaining a foothold can be arduous if your chosen market is saturated.

To stand out, you must provide a unique value proposition. Consider whether your competitors can easily replicate your idea. If so, established players may dominate the market share.

Competition: Identifying Opportunities

When analyzing the competition, focus on your competitive advantage .

Seek to provide what competitors do not. Ask yourself if potential customers desire and are willing to pay for your unique offering. Differentiating your business from competitors is vital.

Choosing the Right Location: A Balancing Act

Selecting your business location entails a delicate balancing act. Ideally, target a location with sufficient demand while managing competition.

Affordability is another crucial factor. A densely populated area may offer greater exposure, but heightened costs could erode profits.

Opting for a more affordable location may seem enticing, but ensure it attracts enough customers to sustain your business.

The ideal location strikes a balance between demand, competition, and affordability, setting the stage for your home staging business’s success.

Understanding the dynamics of supply, demand, and location is fundamental. It safeguards against the pitfalls of insufficient demand, fierce competition, or unsustainable expenses.

Thorough market research and strategic planning are the keys to navigating these factors successfully, ensuring your home staging business thrives in its chosen environment.

For more, see the Demand for Your Products and Services and Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

Target Audience

Unlocking the Power of Target Audience Understanding

Understanding your target audience offers a multitude of benefits.

It enables you to tailor your products and services precisely to their needs, ensuring a more efficient and customer-centric business model.

Rather than offering a broad spectrum of services, you can focus on delivering what truly resonates with your customers. This customer-centric approach enhances satisfaction and fosters long-term relationships.

Target Market Ideas:

  • Real Estate Agents
  • Homeowners looking to sell
  • Property Developers
  • Builders and Contractors
  • Vacation Rental Owners
  • Commercial Property Owners
  • Interior Designers
  • Investors in Real Estate
  • Homebuyers seeking inspiration
  • Event Planners for home events

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Understanding the numbers and making good decisions is a crucial factor in succeeding.

You will struggle to manage a successful operation without putting in the time and effort to understand and monitor the financials of your home staging business.

Let’s look at startup costs, operating costs and profits.

Start-Up Costs:

Nailing Down Startup Costs: The Crucial First Step

When launching your home staging business, accurately estimating startup costs is paramount.

Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:

The Perils of Underestimation

Underestimating startup costs can be a costly mistake. It may lead to insufficient funds to open your business, derailing your plans.

Overestimation and Risk Perception

Conversely, overestimating costs can make your venture appear excessively risky, deterring potential investors or lenders.

Cost Variables

Startup costs hinge on several factors:

  • Business Size : The scale of your operation significantly impacts costs.
  • Location : Urban areas often entail higher expenses than smaller towns.
  • Staffing : Deciding whether to hire employees affects your budget.
  • Equipment : Purchasing new or used equipment carries different costs.
  • Facility : Renting, leasing, or operating from home entails distinct financial implications.
  • Online vs. Brick-and-Mortar : Online setups tend to be more cost-effective.

The Estimation Process

To estimate effectively, create a comprehensive list of required items and services. Research prices and consider potential unforeseen expenses that may arise during setup.

A Unique Journey

Recognize that no one can provide an exact cost for starting your home staging business because every setup differs. Begin by defining your specific business model.

Online Advantage

Online operations are often more budget-friendly compared to brick-and-mortar counterparts. Even if your home is your business hub, it typically incurs fewer expenses than traditional physical setups.

Research Is Key

Numerous variables influence startup costs. Thorough research and accurate estimates are your best allies in determining if launching a home staging business is viable for you.

Sample Startup Cost For a Home Staging Business 

The purpose of the list below is to focus on the items in the list more than the numbers because these are general samples, and your figures will be different.

Estimating startup costs for a mid-sized home staging business in the USA involves considering various factors.

Here’s a detailed sample list with lower and upper-value ranges, excluding operational costs:

1. Business Registration and Licensing:

  • Lower Range: $100 – $500
  • Upper Range: $1,000 – $2,000

2. Legal and Professional Fees (Legal Counsel, Accountant):

  • Lower Range: $1,000 – $2,000
  • Upper Range: $3,000 – $5,000

3. Business Insurance (Liability, Property, E&O):

  • Lower Range: $500 – $1,000/year
  • Upper Range: $1,500 – $3,000/year

4. Office Space or Home Office Setup:

  • Lower Range: $0 – $1,000 (home-based)
  • Upper Range: $3,000 – $6,000 (leased office)

5. Furniture and Decor Inventory:

  • Lower Range: $5,000 – $10,000
  • Upper Range: $15,000 – $30,000

6. Vehicle (if required):

  • Lower Range (used): $5,000 – $10,000
  • Upper Range (new): $20,000 – $40,000

7. Marketing and Advertising:

  • Lower Range: $1,000 – $3,000
  • Upper Range: $5,000 – $10,000

8. Website Development and Hosting:

  • Lower Range: $500 – $1,000
  • Upper Range: $2,000 – $5,000

9. Marketing Collateral (Business Cards, Brochures, Flyers ):

  • Upper Range: $500 – $1,000

10. Photography Equipment and Services: – Lower Range: $500 – $1,000 – Upper Range: $2,000 – $4,000

11. Software and Technology (Staging Software, Accounting Software): – Lower Range: $500 – $1,000 – Upper Range: $2,000 – $3,000

12. Furniture Storage Facility (if needed): – Lower Range: $100 – $300/month – Upper Range: $500 – $1,000/month

13. Miscellaneous Supplies (Cleaning, Repair Tools): – Lower Range: $200 – $500 – Upper Range: $1,000 – $2,000

14. Initial Marketing Budget (Social Media Ads, SEO): – Lower Range: $1,000 – $2,000 – Upper Range: $3,000 – $5,000

15. Training and Certification (if not already certified): – Lower Range: $500 – $1,000 – Upper Range: $2,000 – $4,000

16. Contingency Fund (for unforeseen expenses): – Lower Range: $1,000 – $2,000 – Upper Range: $3,000 – $5,000

Total Estimated Startup Costs:

  • Lower Range: $15,800 – $32,300
  • Upper Range: $56,000 – $120,000

These estimates can vary significantly depending on location, business decisions, and market conditions.

Conduct thorough research and create a detailed business plan to get a more accurate estimate tailored to your specific circumstances.

For more, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Monthly Operating Costs:

Managing Monthly Expenses: A Crucial Business Element

Just like startup costs, monthly expenses for your home staging business are multifaceted. Several variables play a pivotal role:

1. Staffing Decisions:

  • Operating independently or with a full staff significantly impacts monthly expenses.

2. Location Matters:

  • High-traffic areas come with higher costs compared to locations with fewer potential customers.

3. Loan Payments:

  • Loan repayments, if substantial, can significantly affect your monthly financial commitments.

4. Marketing Investments:

  • Expensive marketing campaigns can escalate your monthly outlays.

5. Maintenance and Repairs:

  • Ongoing maintenance and repair costs should be factored in.

Managing your monthly expenses efficiently while maintaining service quality and productivity is crucial for business sustainability.

Striking a balance ensures your home staging business can weather revenue fluctuations and operate optimally.

Sample list of estimated monthly expenses for a MID-sized home staging business

Again, the purpose of the list below is to focus on the item in the list more than the numbers. The numbers are a general idea, and your numbers and list will differ. 

Estimating monthly expenses for a mid-sized home staging business in the USA involves considering various factors, including loan payments.

Here’s a detailed sample list with estimated values:

1. Rent or Lease Payment (Office/Storage Space):

  • Range: $1,500 – $3,000

2. Utility Bills (Electricity, Water, Internet):

  • Range: $200 – $500

3. Insurance Premiums (Liability, Property, E&O):

  • Range: $100 – $300

4. Loan Payments (Startup Loans, Equipment Financing):

  • Range: $1,000 – $2,000

5. Marketing and Advertising Expenses:

  • Range: $500 – $1,500

6. Employee Salaries (if applicable):

  • Range: $2,000 – $4,000

7. Furniture and Decor Inventory Maintenance:

  • Range: $500 – $1,000

8. Vehicle Expenses (Fuel, Maintenance, Insurance):

9. Website Maintenance and Hosting:

  • Range: $50 – $100

10. Marketing Collateral (Printing, Distribution): – Range: $100 – $300

11. Software Subscriptions (Staging Software, Accounting): – Range: $50 – $150

12. Furniture Storage Facility Rent (if used): – Range: $100 – $300

13. Miscellaneous Supplies (Cleaning, Repairs): – Range: $50 – $100

14. Professional Fees (Legal, Accounting): – Range: $100 – $300

15. Contingency Fund (for unforeseen expenses): – Range: $200 – $500

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses (excluding salaries):

  • Lower Range: $6,000 – $12,850
  • Upper Range: $16,000 – $32,250

Please note that these estimates can vary widely based on location, business decisions, and market conditions. Salaries for employees, if applicable, are not included in this total.

Creating a detailed budget tailored to your specific circumstances is essential to manage your monthly expenses effectively.

Considerations for Profits 

Profit Dynamics: Beyond Margins

Running your home staging business effectively goes beyond profit margins. Consider these factors that influence your net profit:

1. Managing Overhead:

  • High overhead can erode your profit, even with substantial sales. Efficient cost management is crucial.

2. Custom Profit Estimate:

  • Your business model and setup uniquely impact profit. You’re best equipped to estimate potential earnings.

3. Positioning Strategy:

  • Positioning your business (high-end, high-quality, or discount) directly affects profit margins.

4. Calculating Profit:

  • Estimate profit by calculating cost per sale, monthly sales, and subtracting overhead costs.

5. Sales Volume vs. Profit per Sale:

  • The balance between high profit per sale and adequate sales volume to cover expenses for a healthy net profit.

Precise profit estimates for your home staging business are challenging due to multifaceted variables. Tailor your strategy to your business model and objectives to maximize profitability.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue.

Final Thoughts on Financials 

Mastering Financial Management: A Business Imperative

In the realm of a home staging business, meticulous financial management reigns supreme. Here’s why it’s indispensable:

1. Essential Record-Keeping:

  • Accurate financial tracking is vital for tax compliance and legal purposes, ensuring you meet obligations.

2. Beyond Transactions:

  • Delve deeper into your financials by monitoring profits, expenses, and generating insightful reports.

3. Detecting Trends:

  • Reports unveil trends that provide invaluable insights into your business health.

4. Proactive Problem-Solving:

  • Spot anomalies promptly; investigate sales drops, market shifts, or competition influx, enabling timely corrective actions.

5. Preventing Future Pitfalls:

  • Ignoring financial vigilance might lead to issues discovered too late to remedy.

A vigilant eye on your home staging business’s financials empowers proactive decision-making, ensuring you stay agile in a dynamic market landscape.

5. Create Your Mission Statement

Mission Statement: Guiding Your Purpose

A mission statement serves as a compass for your home staging business, illuminating its purpose and values. It keeps you aligned with your primary goal – providing value to customers and the community.

Examples of Mission Statements for a Home Staging Business:

  • This mission emphasizes the transformative impact of home staging on both spaces and the well-being of homeowners.
  • Focusing on the art of inspiring through interior design, this statement reflects a dedication to enhancing living environments.
  • This mission underscores the commitment to raising the bar in property presentation and client satisfaction.
  • It highlights the aspiration to convert houses into personalized dream homes for customers.
  • This statement emphasizes the dual purpose of design and relationship-building within the community.

A well-crafted mission statement crystallizes your purpose, serving as a constant reminder of your commitment to customers and your role in the community.

For more, see How To Create a Mission Statement.

6. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Unlocking Uniqueness: The Power of a USP

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is the key to setting your home staging business apart from the crowd. It identifies what makes you unique and guides you in creating a distinct identity in the market.

Examples of USPs for a Home Staging Business:

  • Specializing in environmentally-friendly staging materials, promoting sustainability.
  • Guaranteeing quick turnaround times without compromising quality.
  • Showcasing a focus on bespoke, handcrafted furniture and decor.
  • Offering cutting-edge virtual staging solutions, providing a cost-effective alternative.
  • Focusing on community engagement by sourcing local art and furniture, supporting local artists.
  • Delivering high-end aesthetics on a budget, appealing to cost-conscious homeowners.
  • Celebrating diversity through culturally-inspired staging, catering to a wide range of clientele.

A compelling USP defines your uniqueness and resonates with your target audience, making your home staging business an irresistible choice in a competitive market.

7. Choose a Business Name

Selecting Your Home Staging Business Name

Choosing the right name for your home staging business is a crucial step, as it becomes your brand identity. Consider these factors:

1. Catchy and Appropriate:

  • Opt for a name that’s both catchy and relevant to your industry, making it easy for potential customers to connect with your services.

2. Memorability:

  • Ensure the name is easy to pronounce and remember, facilitating word-of-mouth referrals.

3. Longevity:

  • Business names tend to endure, so don’t rush the decision. Choose one that will stand the test of time.

4. Online Presence:

  • Secure a matching domain name for your website to maintain a consistent online presence.

5. Check Availability:

  • Verify that the name you want isn’t already registered by another business to avoid legal complications.

Here Is a List of Sample Home Staging Business Names:

  • ChicStage Designs
  • PrestigePro Stagers
  • DreamScapes Staging
  • HarmonyNest Interiors
  • StellarSet Stagecraft
  • TransformHaven Stagers
  • UrbanAura Home Staging
  • EleganceVista Decor
  • LuminaSpace Stylings
  • RefinedNest Solutions
  • EnvisionFlow Staging
  • AmbianceCraft Creations
  • StylizeHaven Concepts
  • AccentVibe Stagers
  • RegalFusion Designs
  • ElementFlow Staging
  • ProVisionAesthetics
  • SignatureElegance Stage
  • StyleForte Interiors
  • SpectrumGrove Stagers
  • SereneScape Stylings
  • AuraCraft Designers
  • ImpressioNest Creations
  • VividHaven Interiors
  • OpulentNest Staging
  • CasaGlow Creators
  • EchelonEdge Stagers
  • AlchemyStylings
  • NestWise Innovations
  • PrestigeHarbor Home Staging

This list can serve as inspiration, helping you craft an original and memorable name for your home staging business that resonates with your vision and values.

For more, see the following articles:

  • How To Register a Business Name
  • Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

8. Register Your Company

Legal Compliance in Your Home Staging Business

Running a legitimate home staging business is imperative for long-term success.

Here’s a comprehensive overview to ensure your business adheres to legal requirements:

Professional Consultation:

  • Seek professional guidance to structure your business optimally for tax benefits and liability protection. A consultation with a lawyer or accountant can be invaluable.

Common Registrations:

  • Business Structure Registration:  Choose between a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation.
  • Business Name Registration:  Ensure your chosen business name is registered appropriately.
  • Employer Identification Number (EIN):  Obtain an EIN from the IRS for tax purposes.
  • Sales Tax Permit:  If applicable, register for a sales tax permit to collect and remit sales tax.
  • Local Business Permits:  Check with your local municipality for specific permits required in your area.

Permits and Licenses:

  • Home Occupation Permit:  If operating from home.
  • General Business License:  Often required for all businesses.
  • Building and Zoning Permits:  If making structural changes or renovations.
  • Sales Tax License:  If selling tangible goods.
  • Fire Department Permits:  Especially if you’re storing inventory.
  • Professional Licensing:  If your state requires specific licenses for staging professionals.

Becoming Bondable:

  • Consider becoming a bondable business to boost customer confidence. This involves conducting background checks on your employees and ensuring they meet bonding requirements, providing your clients with an extra layer of trust.

By meticulously following these legal steps and seeking professional guidance, you’ll establish a solid legal foundation for your home staging business, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.

Registration:

  • How to Register Your Business
  • How To Register a DBA
  • How to Register a Trademark
  • How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

  • How to Choose a Business Structure
  • Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
  • How To Form an LLC
  • How To Register a Business Partnership
  • How To Form a Corporation
  • How To Choose a Business Registration Service

9. Create Your Corporate Identity

A Corporate Identity (ID) is the visual representation of your business, encompassing elements like your logo, business cards, website, signage, stationery, and promotional materials.

Maintaining a consistently professional design across these components is essential to make a lasting impression on new and loyal customers.

You can see our pages for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

10. Writing a Business Plan

A business plan is your roadmap, serving two critical roles: securing financing and guiding operations.

Invest the Time and Effort

Creating an effective business plan demands time and effort. It’s the blueprint for your fully operational business, requiring careful consideration and articulation of details.

Diverse Creation Options

You have flexibility in how you create your business plan. Options include crafting it from scratch, hiring a professional, using templates, or employing business plan software.

Even with professional assistance, active involvement in the process ensures clear communication of your business’s nature and management.

Adaptability Matters

Expect your business plan and operations to evolve. As you gain experience and respond to market shifts, your plan will require periodic reviews and adjustments to stay relevant and practical.

Business Plan Template for a Home Staging Business

Prepared by: [Your Name] Date: [Date]

1. Executive Summary

  • Overview of the business and its mission.
  • Briefly highlight key points from each section of the plan.
  • Mention the stage of your business (startup, expansion, etc.).
  • Provide a summary of financial projections.

2. Business Description

  • Explain the nature of your home staging business.
  • Detail your vision, goals, and values.
  • Describe your target market and its demographics.
  • Discuss your competitive advantage and USP (Unique Selling Proposition).

3. Market Analysis

  • Conduct a thorough market research.
  • Analyze industry trends and growth potential.
  • Assess your competitors, their strengths, and weaknesses.
  • Identify opportunities and challenges in the market.

4. Marketing and Sales Strategy

  • Outline your marketing strategies (online, offline, social media, etc.).
  • Define your sales process and customer acquisition methods.
  • Explain pricing strategies and packages.
  • Describe your promotional activities and advertising plans.

5. Organization and Management

  • Present your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).
  • Provide details about the management team and their roles.
  • Discuss any strategic partnerships or key personnel.
  • Highlight the professional qualifications and experience of the team.

6. Services

  • Specify the range of services you offer (home staging, virtual staging, consultations, etc.).
  • Detail the process of delivering these services.
  • Discuss pricing models and any bundled services.
  • Include samples of before-and-after staging projects.

7. Financial Projections

  • Create detailed financial forecasts for the next 3-5 years.
  • Include income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
  • Estimate startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue projections.
  • Discuss break-even analysis and profitability margins.

8. Funding Requirements

  • State if you require financing.
  • Specify the amount needed and how you will use it.
  • Describe potential sources of funding (personal savings, loans, investors, grants, etc.).
  • Provide a repayment plan (if applicable).

9. Risk Assessment

  • Identify potential risks and challenges.
  • Explain your risk management strategies.
  • Discuss contingency plans for addressing unexpected issues.
  • Highlight how you plan to adapt to changing market conditions.

10. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

  • List all necessary permits, licenses, and registrations.
  • Detail any industry-specific regulations.
  • Explain how you will ensure legal compliance.
  • Discuss liability protection and insurance coverage.

11. Appendices

  • Include any additional information or documents that support your plan.
  • Attach resumes of key team members.
  • Add market research data, marketing materials, or samples of your work.
  • Insert any other relevant documents, such as contracts or partnership agreements.

12. Conclusion

  • Summarize the key points of your business plan.
  • Reiterate your mission and vision.
  • Express your commitment to executing the plan effectively.

This comprehensive business plan template will serve as a valuable tool in guiding your home staging business to success. Customize each section with specific details, research, and financial data to create a professional and compelling document.

See How to Write a Business Plan for information on creating your business plan.

11. Banking Considerations

Banking for Small Business Success

Opt for a local bank with a small business focus to streamline financial operations. A dedicated business account separates personal and professional transactions, simplifying expense tracking and tax filing.

Cultivate a professional relationship with your banker for financial guidance and efficient services.

A merchant account or online payment service facilitates card payments, enhancing sales and customer convenience.

For more, see How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

12. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Securing Funds for Your Home Staging Business

If you require financing to kickstart your home staging venture, consider the following options:

1. Traditional Lenders: Approach banks and credit unions for business loans.

2. Private Loans: Seek financial support from friends, family, or private lenders.

3. Investors: Attract investors who believe in your business vision.

4. Asset Sale: Liquidate assets you own to generate capital.

5. Government Grants: Investigate potential grants available for launching your home staging business.

Meeting with a Loan Officer: When meeting with a loan officer, consider these key factors:

  • Creditworthiness:  Ensure a good personal credit score.
  • Business Plan:  Present a comprehensive business plan.
  • Collateral: Be prepared to offer collateral if required.
  • Repayment Plan:  Outline a feasible repayment strategy.

Sample List of Documents for a New Business Loan Application:

  • Business plan
  • Personal and business financial statements
  • Income tax returns
  • Proof of collateral
  • Legal documents (business licenses, contracts, etc.)
  • Bank statements
  • Credit history reports
  • Financial projections
  • Resume detailing your qualifications
  • Personal identification (passport, driver’s license, etc.)

These considerations and document requirements will aid in your loan application process, increasing your chances of securing the necessary funds for your home staging business.

For more, see the following:

  • Getting a Small Business Loan
  • SBA Small Business Grants
  • Search: Home Staging Business Start-up Loans
  • Search: Grants For a Home Staging Business

13. Software Setup

Selecting Software for Home Staging Business

Choosing the right software for your home staging business is crucial.

Here are key considerations:

1. Compatibility and Ease of Transition:

  • Research software compatibility to avoid data transfer hassles.
  • Ensure the company has a proven track record for future support.

2. Demos and Reviews:

  • Explore software with available demos for hands-on evaluation.
  • Read reviews and join forums to learn from others’ experiences.

3. Accounting Software:

  • Research accounting software for expense tracking and tax preparation.
  • Consult your bookkeeper or accountant for expert guidance.

4. Types of Software for Home Staging Business:

  • Project Management:  Tools like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com for tasks and project organization.
  • Design and Rendering:  Software such as SketchUp, Home Designer, or Adobe Creative Suite for creating staging plans.
  • Accounting and Finance:  Consider QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks for financial management.
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM):  Options like HubSpot, Salesforce, or Zoho CRM for client interactions.
  • Website and Social Media Management:  Utilize platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, or Hootsuite for online presence.
  • Inventory and Asset Management:  Software like Sortly or Wasp Inventory for tracking staging items.

Careful software selection streamlines management and operations, enhancing efficiency and productivity in your home staging business.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a home staging business.

14. Get The Right Business Insurance

Protecting Your Home Staging Business with Insurance

Business insurance is essential for safeguarding your home staging venture.

1. Comprehensive Coverage:

  • Ensure you have the right insurance coverage before commencing any business activities.
  • Protect customers, employees, yourself, and anyone on your premises and your property.

2. Professional Liability Insurance:

  • Consider professional liability insurance to shield yourself against potential lawsuits.

3. Interruption Insurance:

  • Explore Interruption Insurance, which can be a lifeline in case of involuntary business shutdown due to incidents.

4. Home-Based Business:

  • If you run your business from home, inform your home insurance agent, as it could impact your existing policy.

5. Professional Guidance:

  • Collaborate with a competent insurance broker to ensure you have adequate coverage tailored to your business needs.

Proper insurance coverage provides peace of mind, protecting your home staging business from unforeseen events and potential legal challenges.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for home staging business insurance .

15. Suppliers and Service Providers

Building Strong Supplier Relationships

Establishing solid connections with suppliers and service providers is vital.

Here’s what you may need and how these relationships benefit your home staging business:

1. Furniture and Decor Suppliers:

  • Reliable sources for furnishings, decor items, and accessories.

2. Rental Services:

  • Partnerships with companies offering rental furniture and decor.

3. Home Improvement Contractors:

  • Contacts for renovation and repair services, if needed.

4. Photography and Videography Services:

  • Professionals to capture your staging work for marketing.

5. Marketing and Advertising Agencies:

  • Experts to promote your services effectively.

6. Moving and Transportation Services:

  • Collaborations for relocating staging items.

7. Cleaning Services:

  • Providers for pre-staging and post-staging cleanup.

8. Artwork and Art Suppliers:

  • Sources for artwork and custom pieces.

9. Storage Facilities:

  • Secure storage options for staging inventory.

10. Printing and Promotional Material Providers: – Suppliers for business cards, brochures, and promotional items.

11. Insurance Agents: – Professionals to help you secure the right insurance coverage.

Nurturing positive relationships with these partners ensures a smooth operation, competitive pricing, and a continuous supply of essential items.

Mutual respect and financial benefits enhance these working relationships, contributing to your home staging business’s success.

For More, See How To Choose a Supplier.

16. Setting Prices

Setting the Right Prices

When launching your home staging business, thorough pricing research is vital for success. Here’s why:

1. Finding the Sweet Spot:

  • Research helps you strike the right balance in pricing, aligning with your market and emphasizing the value you offer.

2. Avoiding Overpricing:

  • If your rates are too high, you risk losing potential clients, as they may opt for more affordable options.

3. Preventing Underpricing:

  • Setting prices too low may attract customers, but you might struggle to cover expenses due to minimal profit margins.

Effective pricing research ensures you remain competitive and financially sustainable in the home staging industry, maximizing your chances of long-term success.

See the following for more:

  • Setting the Price of Your Products and Services
  • Search Results for Pricing Strategies for a Home Staging Business.

17. Physical Setup

Optimizing Your Home Staging Business Layout

Efficient layout and organization are crucial for a successful home staging business.

Here’s an overview of key aspects:

1. Layout Overview:

  • Begin with a comprehensive layout plan for your business space. Ensure it accommodates staging inventory, office space, and client meetings.

2. Professional Signage:

  • Invest in well-designed signage, including your main business sign. Place signs strategically in parking lots, exits, and special areas. Professional signs convey credibility.

3. Organized Office Setup:

  • Managing a home staging business can be time-consuming, so an organized office is essential for productivity. Equip your office with all the necessary tools and resources.

4. Productivity Boost:

  • A well-organized office helps streamline administrative tasks, making you more efficient and responsive to clients’ needs.

5. Client Meetings:

  • Designate a comfortable area for client meetings within your office space. A welcoming environment can enhance the client experience.

6. Inventory Management:

  • Efficiently manage your staging inventory by categorizing and organizing items for quick access.

7. Workspace Ergonomics:

  • Invest in ergonomic office furniture and equipment to create a comfortable and efficient workspace.

8. Technology Integration:

  • To streamline operations, incorporate technology like inventory management software, scheduling tools, and communication systems.

A well-thought-out layout, professional signage, and an organized office setup contribute to your home staging business’s overall effectiveness and professionalism.

See Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

Building Your Home Staging Business Website

A website is an indispensable asset for your home staging business, serving as your primary online presence.

Here’s why it’s a must:

1. Professional Online Identity:

  • A website provides a centralized, professional platform where potential clients can learn about your services and expertise.

2. Ownership and Control:

  • Unlike social media profiles, a website is entirely owned and controlled by you. Registering a domain name ensures your online presence remains in your hands.

3. Marketing Hub:

  • Use your website as a powerful marketing tool. Share industry insights, tips, and customer-centric content through a blog to build trust and establish your authority in the field.

4. Accessibility and Credibility:

  • A well-designed website is accessible 24/7, boosting your business’s credibility and ensuring potential clients can reach you at any time.

Investing in a professional website enhances your online presence and offers a valuable platform for engaging with clients and showcasing your expertise in the home staging industry.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

Building Your External Support Team

A robust external support team is valuable for your home staging business.

Here’s why you need one:

1. Diverse Expertise:

  • Your team should consist of professionals with diverse expertise, such as accountants, lawyers, financial advisors, and marketing specialists. They bring unique skills and insights to your business.

2. On-Demand Assistance:

  • External team members aren’t on your payroll , which means you can utilize their services as needed, whether on a project basis, hourly, or under a retainer agreement.

3. Building Relationships:

  • Building professional relationships takes time. Start with a few key team members and gradually expand your network as your business grows.

4. Comprehensive Support:

  • Your external support team provides essential advice and services, ensuring your business operates smoothly and efficiently.

Consider these professionals as trusted allies who can step in when their expertise is required, enhancing your business’s overall success and resilience.

For more, see Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

Managing Your Home Staging Business

Running your home staging business efficiently requires careful consideration of various roles and responsibilities.

Here’s a list of key positions or outsourced services to consider as your business grows:

  • Home Stager: The core of your business, responsible for staging properties effectively.
  • Administrator: Manages daily operations, schedules appointments, and handles paperwork.
  • Sales and Marketing Specialist: Promotes your services, attracts clients, and creates marketing campaigns.
  • Accountant: Keeps your finances in order, handles taxes, and ensures financial stability.
  • Legal Advisor: Provides legal guidance, drafts contracts, and ensures compliance with regulations.
  • Interior Design Consultant: Offers design expertise for staging projects.
  • Photographer/Videographer: Captures high-quality visuals of staged properties for marketing.
  • Mover/Logistics Manager: Organizes and coordinates furniture and decor transportation.
  • Website Developer/Designer: Maintains and updates your business website.
  • Social Media Manager: Manages your online presence and engages with the audience.
  • Customer Service Representative: Handles client inquiries and ensures excellent service.
  • Handyman/Contractor: Provides minor repairs and maintenance for staged properties.
  • Cleaning Crew: Ensures properties are spotless before staging.
  • Furniture Rental Coordinator: Manages rental agreements for staging furniture.
  • Graphic Designer: Creates promotional materials and branding elements.
  • Insurance Agent: Helps you choose the right insurance coverage for your business.
  • Business Coach/Consultant: Offers guidance for strategic growth and business development.
  • Photography Editing Services: Enhances property photos for marketing materials.
  • Content Writer: Creates engaging blog content and property descriptions.
  • Virtual Assistant: Provides administrative support remotely.

When considering new hires or outsourced services, prioritize those that align with your business’s specific needs and growth.

For more, see How and When to Hire a New Employee.

21. Getting Customers Through the Door

When you have reached this step, your business is set up and ready to go, with one more final step, which is important: getting customers through the door.

There are numerous ways to do this, like advertising, having a grand opening , word of mouth, etc.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the following sections.

a.) Marketing Considerations

Simple Methods to Market Your Home Staging Business

Promoting your home staging business effectively doesn’t always require a huge budget or professional marketing expertise.

Here are a few simple methods to get the word out about your business:

  • Create a Professional Website: Develop a user-friendly website that showcases your portfolio, services, and contact information. Ensure it’s optimized for search engines (SEO) to appear in relevant online searches.
  • Leverage Social Media: Establish a presence on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest . Share stunning photos of your staged properties, engage with your audience, and use relevant hashtags.
  • Online Directories: List your business on online directories like Google My Business, Yelp, and Houzz. These platforms help potential clients find your services locally.
  • Networking: Attend real estate and home improvement industry events and connect with local real estate agents, brokers, and contractors. Building professional relationships can lead to referrals.
  • Email Marketing : Create a mailing list of potential clients and past customers. Send regular newsletters with informative content, special promotions, and success stories.
  • Blogging: Maintain a blog on your website, offering tips, insights, and advice related to home staging. Blogging establishes your expertise and helps with SEO.
  • Customer Testimonials: Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews and testimonials on your website and online platforms. Positive feedback builds trust and credibility.
  • Community Involvement: Participate in local events, sponsor community initiatives, or offer free home staging workshops. Active involvement in your community can lead to word-of-mouth referrals.
  • Collaborate with Real Estate Agents: Build relationships with local real estate agents who can refer clients to your services. Offer special deals or incentives to encourage collaboration.
  • Press Releases: Share newsworthy achievements or projects through press releases to local media outlets. Positive media coverage can boost your visibility.

Remember that marketing efforts may take time to yield significant results, but consistent and thoughtful strategies can help your home staging business thrive in the long run.

See How To Get Customers Through the Door and our marketing section to provide ideas to help you bring awareness to your business.

b.) The Market Can Guide You:

Listening to Customer Feedback Can Enhance Your Home Staging Business

In the world of business, adaptability is key to success. While you may have a specific vision for your home staging business, remaining receptive to customer feedback and market demands is essential. Here’s why:

  • Identify Opportunities: Customer feedback often reveals unmet needs or potential opportunities within your industry. You can discover areas where your business can excel by paying attention to what clients want.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Meeting customer expectations is crucial for building a strong reputation and fostering loyalty. Adapting to their preferences can lead to higher customer satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Competitive Edge: Staying attuned to market trends and customer desires allows you to stay ahead of competitors. Being a business that consistently evolves and improves can set you apart.
  • Business Growth: Embracing change and responding to market demands can lead to business growth and expansion. It opens doors to new revenue streams and a broader customer base.
  • Long-Term Success: Businesses that withstand the test of time often adapt to changing circumstances. By being open to customer feedback and market signals, you position your home staging business for long-term success.

While it’s crucial to maintain your vision, being flexible and open to adjustments based on customer needs can contribute significantly to the growth and prosperity of your home staging business.

c.) Sample Ad Ideas:

  • “Transform Your Space! Home Staging Pros Await.” Unlock the potential of your property with expert home staging. Get a FREE consultation today!
  • “Sell Faster, Sell Higher! Staging Magic Awaits.” Maximize your home’s value with our professional staging services. Discover the difference now!
  • “Your Dream Home, Unveiled! Staging Excellence.” Experience the WOW factor of staged homes. Elevate your listing to a dream home!
  • “Staging Simplified: Your Path to a Swift Sale!” Sell your home in record time. Let our staging experts work their magic for you!
  • “Staging Matters! Elevate Your Property’s Appeal.” First impressions last. Transform your home for a quicker, more profitable sale!

d.) B2B Ideas

Building strategic partnerships can significantly boost your home staging business.

Here are some businesses you could approach for collaboration:

  • Real Estate Agents: Partner with local real estate agents who often need staging services to enhance property value and sales potential. Offer referral fees or co-marketing opportunities.
  • Interior Designers: Collaborate with interior designers who might not focus on home staging but can recommend your services to clients selling their homes.
  • Home Inspectors: Home inspectors often work with homeowners preparing to sell. They can refer clients to you for staging, enhancing curb appeal and presentation.
  • Home Renovation Contractors: Partner with contractors who renovate properties for sale. Staging can complement their work and increase their chances of referrals.
  • Mortgage Brokers and Lenders: Connect with professionals in the mortgage industry who can refer clients your way. Staged homes often attract more buyers, making loan approvals easier.
  • Furniture Rental Companies: Collaborate with furniture rental businesses to provide cost-effective staging solutions for your clients.
  • Photographers and Virtual Tour Providers: Staged homes look better in photographs and virtual tours. Partner with professionals in this field for mutual referrals.
  • Moving Companies: Recommend reliable moving companies to your clients, and they may refer homeowners back to you for staging services.
  • Cleaning Services: Cleanliness is crucial for staging. Partner with cleaning services to ensure homes are in tip-top shape before staging.
  • Home Appraisers: Appraisers can recognize the value that staging adds to a property. They may suggest your services to homeowners.
  • Insurance Agents: Partner with insurance agents to help homeowners understand the importance of home staging when updating their insurance coverage.
  • Home Organizers: Collaborate with professional organizers to declutter and stage homes effectively.

When approaching these businesses, emphasize the mutual benefits of referrals, such as referral fees, cross-promotion, or providing added value to their clients.

Building these partnerships can create a network of trusted allies, increasing your client base and business success.

Points To Consider

Next, let’s review essential points for more tips, insights, and considerations before starting your home staging business.

We will cover sections, including skills to consider, points to focus on, and equipment. Then you’ll reach the “Knowledge Is Power,” section, where you will want to use the resources for valuable information.

Key Points to Succeed in a Home Staging Business

Key Points to Succeed in the Setup Phase of a Home Staging Business:

  • Thorough Research: Conduct in-depth market research to understand your target audience, competition, and industry trends.
  • Solid Business Plan: Create a comprehensive business plan outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections.
  • Legal Compliance: Ensure your business is legally registered and all necessary permits and licenses are obtained.
  • Financial Preparedness: Estimate startup costs accurately and secure sufficient funding. Set up a separate business bank account.
  • Effective Marketing: Develop a professional brand identity, including a logo and website. Use both online and offline marketing strategies to establish your presence.
  • Build a Support Team: Consider consulting with professionals like accountants and lawyers. Build relationships with suppliers and service providers.
  • Quality Training: Invest in home staging training or certification programs to enhance your skills and credibility.
  • Network and Partnerships: Build relationships with real estate agents, interior designers, and other industry professionals for potential collaborations.
  • Pricing Strategy: Research and set competitive yet profitable pricing for your services.
  • Software and Tools: Invest in project management, bookkeeping, and marketing software to streamline operations.

Key Points to Succeed When Your Home Staging Business Is in the Operation Phase:

  • Customer Focus: Continually understand and cater to your target audience’s needs and preferences.
  • Quality of Service: Maintain high standards in your staging work to ensure satisfied customers and positive referrals.
  • Marketing Consistency: Maintain an active online presence, regularly update your website, and engage with social media to attract new clients.
  • Efficient Operations: Optimize your business processes to improve efficiency and productivity.
  • Financial Management: Keep accurate financial records, monitor cash flow, and adhere to budgets. Consider hiring an accountant if needed.
  • Client Relationships: Nurture relationships with past clients and encourage referrals through excellent service.
  • Continual Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and refresh your skills through ongoing education.
  • Adaptability: Be open to adapting your services to changing market demands and trends.
  • Feedback Utilization: Solicit and utilize feedback from clients to make improvements.
  • Community Involvement: Engage in community events and activities to build brand awareness and goodwill.

Remember that the key to success in both phases is dedication, continuous learning, and a commitment to providing exceptional service to your clients.

Making Your Home Staging Business Stand Out

  • Unique Branding: Create a distinctive brand identity with a memorable logo, color scheme, and tagline that sets you apart from competitors.
  • Specialized Niche: Focus on a specific niche within the home staging industry, such as luxury properties, eco-friendly staging, or vintage homes, to become an expert in that area.
  • Virtual Staging Services: Offer virtual staging in addition to traditional staging, providing clients with a cost-effective alternative that showcases potential property transformations.
  • Interactive 3D Tours: Invest in technology to provide immersive 3D virtual tours of staged properties, enhancing your portfolio and client experience.
  • Green Staging: Promote environmentally-friendly staging practices by using sustainable and recycled materials, appealing to eco-conscious clients.
  • Collaborations: Partner with local real estate agents, interior designers, or home renovation companies to create a referral network and expand your client base.
  • Before-and-After Portfolios: Showcase impressive before-and-after photos of your staging projects on your website and marketing materials to highlight your skills and achievements.
  • Personalized Consultations: Offer pre-staging consultations to homeowners, providing DIY staging tips and guidance to increase property appeal.
  • Home Organization Services: Expand your services to include home organization and decluttering, helping clients prepare their properties for staging.
  • Rental Furniture Discounts: Negotiate partnerships with furniture rental companies to secure discounts for your clients, making staging more affordable.
  • Staging Workshops: Host workshops and webinars to educate homeowners and real estate professionals about the benefits of staging and how to maximize property value.
  • Interactive Social Media: Create engaging social media content, including behind-the-scenes videos, live Q&A sessions, and interactive polls to connect with your audience.
  • Client Testimonials: Showcase authentic client testimonials and case studies to build trust and credibility among potential clients.
  • Transparent Pricing: Provide clear and competitive pricing structures on your website to attract clients who appreciate transparency.
  • Staging Packages: Offer tiered staging packages to cater to various budgets and property sizes, ensuring your services are accessible to a broader range of clients.

Ideas for Add-Ons for a Home Staging Business:

  • Photography Services: Include professional real estate photography as part of your staging packages to provide clients with high-quality listing images.
  • Home Cleaning Services: Partner with a cleaning service to offer pre-staging deep cleaning, ensuring properties are in optimal condition.
  • Landscaping and Curb Appeal: Collaborate with landscapers to enhance a property’s exterior and curb appeal, making a strong first impression.
  • Custom Furniture Design: Offer custom furniture design services to create unique pieces tailored to the property’s style and dimensions.
  • Artwork Rental: Include artwork rental options for staging packages, adding a finishing touch to staged interiors.
  • Smart Home Integration: Provide smart home technology integration services, making properties more appealing with modern automation features.
  • Staging for Short-Term Rentals: Extend your services to stage vacation rentals, Airbnb properties, or short-term rentals, targeting a growing market.
  • Professional Home Inspection : Partner with certified home inspectors to offer pre-listing inspections, helping sellers address issues before staging.
  • In-Person or Virtual Workshops: Conduct workshops and seminars for real estate agents, teaching them how to leverage staging to sell homes faster.
  • Staging Rentals: Rent out your staging furniture and decor to homeowners who want to stage their properties independently.
  • Property Maintenance Services: Offer ongoing property maintenance and check-up services for staged homes on the market.
  • Relocation Assistance: Assist clients with relocation services, helping them transition to their new homes seamlessly.
  • Feng Shui Consultations: Provide Feng Shui consultations and adjustments to create harmonious and balanced environments.
  • Holiday and Seasonal Staging: Offer seasonal staging services to showcase homes for different holidays and seasons.
  • Staging Certification Courses: Develop and sell staging certification courses to individuals interested in pursuing a career in home staging.

By implementing these innovative ideas and add-ons, your home staging business can stand out in a competitive market and provide added value to your clients, setting the stage for success.

Hours of Operation:

Hours of Operation for a Home Staging Business:

  • Weekday Hours: Typically, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, for consultations, meetings, and administrative tasks.
  • Weekend Availability: Offer appointments on weekends, accommodating clients’ schedules when viewing staged properties.

Tasks Outside Regular Hours:

  • Property Staging: Often conducted outside regular hours to minimize disruption to homeowners and real estate agents.
  • Installation and Removal: Evening or early morning staging setup and takedown to ensure properties are ready for daytime viewings.

Equipment and Supplies

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Home Staging Business:

1. Furniture:

  • Sofas and couches
  • Chairs (dining, accent, lounge)
  • Tables (coffee, end, dining)
  • Beds (various sizes)
  • Nightstands
  • Bookshelves
  • Accent furniture (e.g., side tables, consoles)

2. Decor Accessories:

  • Rugs and carpets
  • Wall art and frames
  • Decorative pillows and throws
  • Lamps (floor and table)
  • Curtains and drapes
  • Greenery (plants and artificial flowers)
  • Vases and decorative bowls

3. Kitchen Accessories:

  • Dinnerware (plates, glasses, utensils)
  • Cookware (pots, pans)
  • Small appliances (toaster, coffee maker)
  • Kitchen towels and linens

4. Bathroom Accessories:

  • Shower curtains
  • Bathroom rugs
  • Soap dispensers and trays
  • Toilet accessories (brush holder, tissue box cover)

5. Bedding and Linens:

  • Bed linens (sheets, duvet covers)
  • Comforters and blankets
  • Pillowcases and shams
  • Towel sets (bath and hand towels)
  • Tablecloths and placemats

6. Tools and Supplies:

  • Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, hammers)
  • Measuring tape
  • Furniture assembly tools
  • Safety equipment (gloves, safety glasses)
  • Cleaning supplies (vacuum, mop, cleaning solutions)
  • Moving equipment (hand trucks, dollies)
  • Staging accessories (easels, display stands)

7. Storage Solutions:

  • Storage bins and baskets
  • Closet organizers
  • Storage ottomans
  • Shelving units

8. Office Equipment:

  • Computer and printer
  • Office desk and chair
  • Filing cabinets
  • Office supplies (pens, notepads, file folders)

9. Transportation:

  • Vehicle for transporting furniture and accessories
  • Moving blankets and straps for securing items

10. Photography Equipment:

  • Camera and tripod
  • Lighting equipment
  • Photo editing software

11. Safety Equipment:

  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit

12. Marketing Materials:

  • Business cards
  • Brochures and flyers
  • Website and online presence

13. Miscellaneous:

  • Steam cleaner (for upholstery )
  • Extension cords and power strips
  • Toolbox for minor furniture repairs

Remember that the specific equipment you need may vary depending on the size and scope of your home staging business and the types of services you offer.

Assessing your business requirements and budget before making equipment purchases is essential.

It’s crucial to focus on your skill set when running a home staging business because your skills directly impact the quality of your work and customer satisfaction.

Evaluating your skills helps you recognize areas where you excel and areas that may need improvement.

If you lack essential skills, you have the option to acquire them through training or hire professionals with those skills. This ensures that you can offer comprehensive and high-quality services to your clients.

List of Essential Skills for a Home Staging Business Owner:

  • Interior design and decorating
  • Furniture arrangement and placement
  • Color coordination and aesthetics
  • Space planning and utilization
  • Knowledge of current design trends
  • Effective communication and client relations
  • Project management and organization
  • Budgeting and financial management
  • Marketing and promotion
  • Networking and relationship-building
  • Problem-solving and decision-making
  • Attention to detail and creativity
  • Time management and multitasking
  • Basic photography and photo editing skills
  • Familiarity with home improvement and repair processes

These skills are essential for successfully operating a home staging business and delivering outstanding results to clients.

Considering the Future of Your Home Staging Business:

Contemplating the future of your home staging business is a strategic exercise with enduring benefits.

While the landscape may evolve, having a clear vision provides guidance for informed decisions and ensures your business progresses in alignment with your desired destination.

A well-defined vision serves as a compass, helping you adapt and steer your enterprise toward success, even in an ever-changing environment.

It fosters focus, inspires innovation, and enables effective long-term planning, enhancing your ability to thrive and remain resilient amidst evolving industry dynamics.

In essence, envisioning the future empowers you to shape your business and progress towards your goals proactively.

Find a Home Staging Business For Sale

Exploring the option of purchasing an existing home staging business offers distinct advantages and drawbacks compared to starting from scratch.

  • Immediate Revenue: You start earning income as soon as you acquire the business.
  • Skip Startup Phase: Bypass the time-consuming and uncertain startup phase.
  • Proven Success: An established business comes with a track record of profitability and expenses.
  • Existing Customer Base: You inherit a pre-existing customer base, ensuring a more stable revenue stream.
  • Established Reputation: The business already enjoys a reputation in the market.
  • Higher Initial Cost: Buying a business often involves purchasing its customer base, increasing the upfront cost.
  • Operational Changes: Altering the established operations can risk losing existing customers.
  • Inherited Reputation: You inherit both the positive and negative aspects of the business’s reputation.

While a perfect home staging business for sale may not be available, exploring related opportunities within the industry can be worthwhile.

The latest search results for a home staging business for sale and others in the same category.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a Home Staging Business

Considering a home staging franchise has both advantages and disadvantages that warrant examination before starting your own home staging business.

  • Proven Business Model: Franchises offer a well-established business plan created by the corporate office, reducing the uncertainty of a startup.
  • Built-in Reputation: You benefit from the franchise’s existing reputation and marketing efforts, potentially boosting your client base.
  • Comprehensive Training: Franchisors provide in-depth training, ensuring you’re well-prepared to run the business effectively.
  • Corporate Support: You have access to ongoing support and guidance from the corporate office.
  • High Costs: Franchise ownership can be expensive, involving initial fees and ongoing royalty payments.
  • Limited Autonomy: Major changes often require corporate entity approval, limiting flexibility.
  • Product and Service Restrictions: Franchises typically have strict guidelines on what products and services you can offer.
  • Operational Constraints: You must adhere to the franchise agreement’s operational requirements.
  • Ongoing Fees: Continuous franchise fees can impact your profitability.

While a perfect home staging business franchise may not exist, exploring related franchises within the industry can uncover unexpected opportunities.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Harness the power of knowledge! Abundant industry information is at your disposal through these valuable links, aiding both the startup and operational phases of your business.

Trends and Statistics

Examining industry trends and statistics is essential for a home staging business to adapt, grow, and stay competitive in the ever-evolving market.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the home staging industry.

Home Staging Associations

Trade associations provide industry updates and networking opportunities, delivering valuable advantages for professionals in the field.

See the search results related to home staging associations and the benefits of Joining the Chamber of Commerce.

The Top Home Staging Companies

Analyzing established home staging businesses can inspire innovative ideas, identify gaps for a competitive edge, and reveal overlooked opportunities within the industry.

See the latest search results for the top home staging companies.

The Future of the Home Staging Industry

Exploring the industry’s future is essential for aspiring home staging entrepreneurs to anticipate trends and make informed decisions about their business ventures.

See the search results for the future of home staging.

Customer Expectations

Analyzing search results for customer expectations in home staging offers valuable insights, enabling you to meet and surpass their needs, uncover potential oversights, and ensure comprehensive service delivery.

See the search results related to customer expectations for home staging services.

Expert Tips

Examining expert tips enhances your skill set, offering fresh perspectives and techniques for both experienced professionals and novices, fostering continuous improvement in your field.

See the latest search results for home staging tips to gain tips and insights.

Home Staging Publications

Publications provide valuable tips and insights on home staging, serving as an additional source of information for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

See the search results for home staging publications.

Home Staging Forums

Engaging in home staging forums fosters industry connections and customer insight, enhancing your understanding of client needs and building valuable relationships with peers.

See the latest search results related to home staging forums.

Enrolling in online or local educational courses is a valuable method to enhance skills and knowledge for the betterment of your home staging business.

See the latest courses that could benefit a home staging business owner . Also, see our management articles for tips and insights for managing your business.

Home Staging Blogs

Subscribing to leading home staging blogs provides fresh ideas and industry insights. Maintain a curated collection, ensuring you receive consistent, valuable information for your business.

Look at the latest search results for top home staging blogs to follow.

Service-Based Business Tips

Exploring advice and strategies for success in the service sector aids in effectively running a sustainable home staging business, ensuring continual growth and long-term success.

Look at the latest search results for service tips and insights to follow.

Home Staging News

News outlets offer a valuable source of information to stay updated on media coverage related to home staging and industry trends.

See the latest results for home staging news.

Watching YouTube videos on home staging provides an additional resource for enhancing your expertise in the field.

YouTube videos related to home staging.

Privacy Overview

  • How to Start Home Staging Business
  • How to Start a Home Staging Business

Table of Contents

  • What Is a Home Staging Business?
  • Role of Home Staging in the Real Estate Industry
  • How Much Does It Cost to Start a Home Staging Business?
  • Education and Skills Needed to Start a Home Staging Business
  • Pros and Cons of Starting a Home Staging Business
  • 9 Steps to Start a Home Staging Business
  • Step 1: Research Your Local Market and Competition
  • Step 2: Determine Your Pricing Structure
  • Step 3: Name Your Business
  • Step 4: Form a Business Entity
  • Step 5: Apply for Business Licenses and Permits
  • Step 6: Get Financing and Open a Business Bank Account
  • Step 7: Get Insurance 
  • Step 8: Invest in Storage Space
  • Step 9: Market Your Business

If you want to turn your passion for design into a profitable business, then starting a home staging business might be an excellent idea. Moreover, home staging has become a popular trend in real estate and a great opportunity. 

If you want to capitalize on your interior design skills and learn how to become a professional stager, keep reading to find out how to start a home staging business.

Home staging is the practice of upgrading or rearranging furnishings to highlight a home’s best features. This can include adding a mirror to make a room seem larger or adding bright couches to a living room to make it look sunnier. 

Home staging.

In some cases, home stagers bring in new furniture sets to change the décor and complete a home makeover. In other cases, home stagers work with what already exists in the house and make a few tweaks, such as adding a few upscale accessories like a lamp or a rug.

Home staging is a game-changer in real estate. This specialized business goes beyond aesthetics to strategically arranging and decorating homes to make them irresistible to potential buyers. Home staging significantly enhances a property's appeal by personalizing spaces and optimizing layouts with stylish furnishings. In a competitive market, well-executed home staging can lead to faster sales and potentially higher property values, making it a pivotal player in real estate success.

Professional home stagers work with homeowners and realtors to make the house stand out, maximize its sales price, and sell faster. A study done by the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP) shows that in 2019, an estimated five million properties were traded in the U.S., and around one million of those properties involved a professional stager. Moreover, the same study showed that staged homes sell 30 times faster and up to 20% more than their original value.

Another study done by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that 82% of buyer’s agents mentioned that staging a home made it easier for potential buyers to see themselves living in the property in the future. The study also showed that a total of 53% of buyer’s agents said that staging a home decreases the time a property spends on the market.

business plan for home staging company

The home staging business startup costs depend on whether you use existing furniture or not. If you choose to utilize the homeowner’s items, the staging business typically won’t require a significant upfront investment. However, if you want to purchase your own pieces, the startup costs can be hefty.

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The basic expenses to start a commercial home staging business are the following:

  • Setting up your business name and structure: $200
  • Marketing materials: $300 to $2,500
  • Liability insurance: $100 to $200

If you want to buy decorating supplies and inventory, consider looking into furniture rental services to save some money or apply for  equipment financing .

Having a college degree or certification in interior design isn’t necessarily required for a home staging startup, though having one is an advantage. With that said, knowledge of trends and design can give you a leg up. Additionally, expertise and experience in marketing, contracts, accounting, networking, and customer service can help you negotiate your rates.

Home staging process.

Moreover, joining the  Real Estate Staging Association  will help you stand out from other home stagers. As a member of the association, you will have access to the latest trends and networking strategies. Also, you must pass an ethics exam and agree to follow the association’s Code of Ethics. Moreover, you will be eligible to earn the RESA-PRO designation after being in business for at least one year, which will give you additional credibility.

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of starting your house staging company to understand what you’re getting into.

  • Low startup costs
  • Creative freedom
  • No degree or certification is required
  • Word-of-mouth marketing
  • Increased demand for home staging professionals
  • Potential for high-profit margins
  • Demanding schedule and inconsistent working hours
  • Different tastes and personality conflicts
  • Not charging enough
  • Investing in storage space
  • Slow seasons

You might be wondering how long it takes to become a home stager. 

In order to start a home staging business, you need to follow several key steps. Consider these actions to learn how to start your home staging business successfully.

Before setting up your business, research your local market to understand the needs of your potential customers. Potential customers include homeowners trying to sell their properties and real estate agents. For example, if your local market is affluent, you may have to invest in costly items. On the other hand, if you live in a working-class neighborhood, you may make homes more attractive by utilizing existing pieces. You should also understand your market’s popular design and architectural trends to include them while remodeling.

In some cases, after completing your market research, you may find out that there isn’t a demand for house stagers in your area. In such cases, you may want to consider exploring other housing markets or working with people who own offices and commercial spaces instead.

Also, the chances are that you are not the only professional home stager in the market. That’s why you should research your competition to stay ahead of the game. Understand how many other home stagers are active in your area, what they charge, and how they stage a house.

Before starting a project, home stagers hold consultations and charge $150 to $600. Afterward, when it’s time to stage the house, you should decide whether to charge per hour or per project. If you want to charge per hour, the price range is $40 to $150. Whereas, if you’re going to charge per project, each room costs an average of $400 to $700. Ultimately, how much you will charge will depend on the location, condition of the property, your experience, and expertise.

Pick a  business name  that reflects your work ethic and appeals to your customers. Do not rush to come up with a name because it plays a crucial role in first impressions. Consider incorporating words that convey a sense of style, elegance, and a commitment to enhancing the visual appeal of homes. Also, check your state’s website to see if the business name you want to operate under is available. If yes, register your name with the secretary of state’s office.

After naming your business, you must choose the  best business structure . It is essential to select the entity that works best for you because each structure has its own legal and tax requirements. 

Bedroom furniture.

The four primary home staging business models are  sole proprietorship s, partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies (LLCs). It might be better to form an LLC when first starting your business because it provides limited liability protection and avoids double taxation. 

This means the business owner may not be held personally accountable for the company's debts and financial losses. Moreover, profits are not subject to taxation at two different levels, such as personal and corporate. Instead, it is taxed as part of the investor's income. 

To operate legally, you should apply for business licenses and permits. However, those vary based on the location of your business. Nonetheless, a home staging business may need a sales tax permit and an employer identification number (EIN) to hire employees regardless of your state or town.

As mentioned previously, starting your home staging company doesn’t require a lot of investing. However, if you need capital, you may want to head over to the bank and get financing. While you’re there, you may also want to open a business bank account to separate your personal and business expenses. Finally, make sure to pay back your loan on time to  improve your business credit score .

To protect your operations, it is wise to invest in home staging business insurance. Consider getting general liability, professional liability, and workers’ compensation insurance for your home staging business. The first one will protect you from third-party bodily injury claims and property damage. The second will protect your business from claims of professional errors or negligence that result in a financial loss. The third one will cover expenses your business might face if an employee were ever hurt while working.

If you want to purchase your own furniture and décor, you may have to invest in storage space. Find a convenient storage space for you, and make sure that it is climate-controlled to keep the pieces safe.

Marketing plays a massive role in a business’s success because it gives them visibility. Home stagers’ most common marketing techniques are social media marketing, online and print advertising, and networking with realtors.

Word-of-mouth marketing from agents and brokers is powerful but not enough to promote your business. Having a solid online presence is essential for home stagers because it is a visual field and allows potential customers to see your work and understand the value you provide. That’s why you should create an official website and social media pages to upload your portfolio of homes you have staged and high-quality photos of your work to attract clients.

Moreover, ensure your branding and website design are consistent and professional-looking. Clients will not trust your design skills if you have a messy website with inconsistent visuals. Also, optimize your website using targeted keywords that local brokers or homeowners may use to find home stagers online, include testimonials from past customers, and have them in your marketing materials.

For offline marketing, always have your business cards to give out and your portfolio to show your clients. Visit open houses to meet the seller and attend real estate conferences to network with contractors, real estate agents, and homeowners. Make sure to maintain these connections. Also, invest in outdoor signage and even sponsor local events to build brand recognition if you have enough capital. If not, you may want to look at  small business credit cards .

The home staging business is a huge opportunity for aspiring artistic entrepreneurs. Make sure that you have a solid home staging business plan, research your target market, understand your competition, get the necessary licenses and permits, and network with real estate agents and homeowners to land your first project.

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How to Start a Home Staging Business

Last Updated: January 11, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Cindy Hofen . Cindy Hofen is a Certified Relocation Specialist and the founder of Managing Moves & More, a San Francisco Bay Area-based professional move management company specializing in start-to-finish moving solutions, home clearouts, estate sales, and home staging. Since 2009, her team has helped over 2,500 clients to simplify their transitions. Cindy has over 10 years of professional moving and organizing experience, is a member of the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM), holds an A+ Accreditation, and belongs to the Diamond Society. She has a Master of Business Administration from Arizona State University and a BA in Business Economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 15 testimonials and 100% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 238,130 times.

Home staging is a way to prepare a house for sale. By using professional cleaning, repair, and decoration home staging aims to make the house appear larger, brighter, cleaner, and more inviting to potential buyers. Professional stagers use high level design skills to appeal to a buyer's senses. Any number of techniques can come into play from rearranging furniture into a larger visual concept, to paint, showcasing fine fabrics, putting drapes on windows, and adding pieces like bookcases or shelves to bring attention to particular areas. You can run this business alone or as part of a larger real estate agency. Either way the goal is to show a house in use so buyers are more encouraged than they would be seeing a vacant house. [1] X Research source

Taking Preliminary Business Steps

Step 1 Create a business name.

  • If you use a concept name then keep it relevant to your industry. You want a name connected to the ideas of home and design.
  • Whatever name you choose will need to be heavily publicized in real estate offices, among builders, art shops, mortgage brokers, and anyone else who might use your services.

Step 2 Draw up a budget.

  • Start-up costs for home staging are usually low, but regardless if you ask your bank for a small business loan or not, plan on a few items from the beginning.
  • Expect some costs for early marketing such as business cards, frequent travel, advertising space in local publications, and possibly web hosting.
  • Canvas the area contractors for painters, plumbers, electricians, etc... for their costs. You mostly will be working with what's on site at a home, but sometimes you may need an assist. Keep in mind this will factor into what you charge the homeowner.

Step 3 Print a business card.

  • The major items to have on the cards are your business name, your own name, and contact info. You should have at least a phone number you can easily be reached at, an e-mail address you check frequently, and possibly a website.
  • These items can be relatively inexpensive if you cut back on extra embellishments such as fancy fonts, glosses, special paper, etc... Conversely, spending some more on the display sometimes appeals to customers. Strike a balance.

Step 4 Create a schedule of charges.

  • You will need to decide your basis for charging including square footage of the house, hours of labor, weight of objects moved, etc...
  • Some stagers can charge between $500 to $5,000 dollars per house.
  • Set your rates to cover your total business costs plus a reasonable profit.

Step 5 Contact the US Small Business Administration.

  • Some staging jobs will involve you encountering an empty house or room. In these cases you will have to rent furniture and other decorations, so having some extra money on hand would help.
  • Some staging jobs may involve substantial painting and/or repair work. If you're doing the work initially yourself then you may need to pay the contractor first even if you're charging the homeowner later.

Step 6 Create a website.

  • You can try free website creators if you know how to use them.
  • If you do not know how to program webpages, consider budgeting extra for a professional website creator to do it for you.
  • Do consider if you have any friends, family, or colleagues that are good at web design that might do this in exchange for you staging a room for them or similar service.
  • Make sure whoever designs the site helps keep the page high in popular search engines.

Managing Your Local Real Estate Market

Step 1 Look at consumer reports for home buyers.

  • Check out area business commentary, surveys, reports, and talk to realtors if they are willing to discuss buyer general interests. You want to get sense of consumer tastes.
  • Think about asking people close to you what they would be interested in seeing for a new home--especially if a friend or family member is actually in the market.

Step 2 Contact local real estate offices.

  • Offer to do a couple of free stagings for the realtor to demonstrate your abilities.
  • Get permission to put your business card or a small sign with your name and contact information on an early display when you do them. This will showcase your skills for the realtor and customers in addition to perhaps getting the realtor's reports on buyer interests and referrals.

Step 3 Write for the community realty publications.

  • Look up the real estate publication's submission guidelines, and do the same for the newspaper regarding contributions.
  • Contact the appropriate editor saying something such as: "I am a local home stager, I would like to write for your publication about my strategy for making a room look warmer." or "I would like to submit an article about home decoration." Proceed according to the editor's instructions. If they are not taking any submissions then you should move onto another venue.

Step 4 Contact reliable contractors in the area.

  • You may want to check the contractors against the Better Business Bureau reports to see if any problems come up.
  • Look for reviews online and/or from other realtors and homeowners that used the contractors to get a reasonable idea of each one's cost, speed of service, and capabilities in case you need them to help with your staging projects later on.
  • For example, if you find a painter that is fast and can do large homes, but is too costly, you may not get many customers when you start-up with no established reputation. On the other hand, a handyman that has a reputation for cheap, safe, and efficient electrical work might be useful if you need to alter lighting in a room.

Working With Interior Design

Step 1 Set up good resources for home decor.

  • You might let these local shops know you plan on using them regularly. Perhaps introduce yourself to their manager or owner by saying, "I'm starting a local home staging business and would like to make use of your furniture for empty room situations." They might give you some discounts for frequent use.
  • Also look into renting a storage facility to keep supplies you purchase and don't rent so you can reuse them for multiple jobs.

Step 2 Move furniture.

  • If you can get assistance moving the furniture, with the homeowner's permission, do so.
  • Different strategies can be employed to make rooms feel more open and comfortable including grouping furniture away from walls, making sofas and armchairs into more cozy units, or adding a bookcase or dresser to a room.

Step 3 Add lighting.

  • If you need to add a new light fixture or replace an existing one then you will need an electrician. In this event, if this situation was not already covered under your work contract, you will need to ask the homeowner for authorization.
  • If the homeowner resists then you can simply give them the recommendations for lighting additions to different areas and let them decide how to proceed.

Step 4 Change colors.

  • Moving around existing colored objects can be accomplished similar to the furniture technique. But if you plan on painting significant portions of the interior of a home then you will need the homeowner's agreement in your contract or later on.
  • If the homeowner does not want you to change the paint scheme of the house then you can make some recommendations and let them choose what to do on their own.

Step 5 Add accessories.

  • Flowers can add to the beauty of any staged setting, as can pictures, and framed paintings.
  • These don't have to be from expensive shops. You can use the local connections you made to get some inexpensive artwork and plants to liven up a room, but you can also move around existing framed work in the homeowner's house.
  • Consider using existing potted plants and flowers from the homeowner's garden, with their permission, to accentuate a room within the home.

Attracting Customers

Step 1 Advertise in the right places.

  • This includes realtors, office managers, painters, construction companies, mortgage brokers, and moving companies.
  • Offer occasional sample stagings to the managers or executives of these companies in exchange for referrals.
  • Periodically reestablish contact with these colleagues to remind them of your availability and abilities.

Step 2 Use word of mouth.

  • If you are working with a realtor then remind them to drop your business name to other realtors at their trade shows and meetings.
  • Hand out items with your business name or logo to your clients so they pass it on. If they ask for a pen then it should be one with your business name on it.

Step 3 Do a staging demonstration at your own home.

  • Invite some real estate agents you want to network with.
  • Consider doing a friend's or family member's home too.
  • Take some photos of the finished product to include in your portfolio.

Step 4 Practice with trends.

  • Use the staging at home or a friend's location idea if you want to practice before doing this at a client's home.
  • Take photos of your use of the latest trends, include the photos in your portfolio, and add the photos to your website. This will demonstrate to potential clients that you are with the times in your decorating skills.

Expert Q&A

Cindy Hofen

Video . By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.

  • You don't need any special certifications or licenses to do home staging. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • This business has low start up costs and requires few additional supplies that you need to bring. You mostly are using what's already in the home. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Take advantage of the network of realtors, mortgage brokers, and anyone else in the real estate business to get clients. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Building your initial portfolio of clients, until your reputation is established, will take time. Thanks Helpful 19 Not Helpful 0
  • Moving furniture can result in injury, so be careful and consider getting assistance. Thanks Helpful 15 Not Helpful 0
  • Plumbing, electrical work, and major repair should be handled by licensed professionals. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 1
  • Clients may be nervous about you handling their property, and you can be liable for damages. Thanks Helpful 17 Not Helpful 3
  • Real estate agents require a license. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 3

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  • ↑ http://homebuying.about.com/od/sellingahouse/qt/WhatisStaging.htm
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/
  • ↑ http://homebusiness.about.com/od/personalservicesbusiness/p/homestaging.htm
  • ↑ http://www.bbb.org/
  • ↑ Priscilla Bettencourt. Home Stager & Interior Designer. Expert Interview. 24 April 2020.
  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/233813

About this article

Cindy Hofen

If you want to start your own home staging business, start by staging your own home so you can showcase your skills to potential customers. Move furniture, paint the walls, and add unique decorations to make each room look as perfect as possible. You may want to update the lighting as well. Take pictures of the rooms, then post the pictures on social media and show them to friends and family to start attracting clients. For tips on getting funding to grow your business, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Commencing Your Journey in Home Staging Business

Dive into the captivating world of home staging and unleash your creativity and passion for interior design. Starting a home staging business is not just about having an eye for design, but also understanding the housing market, knowing what potential buyers are looking for, and being able to highlight a property's best features. This venture calls for strategic planning, organized project management, and excellent communication skills. Aspiring entrepreneurs need to be ready to engage with real estate agents, photographers, and homeowners while delivering top-quality service. Upskill yourself in business management and marketing -- vital constituents for growth in this niche.

Close up of a man singer sitting on a stool in a headphones with a guitar recording a track in a home studio

The Struggle of the Startup

Starting a home staging business can be both exciting and daunting. With potential hurdles such as finding the right clientele, marketing your services effectively, and managing finances, it's no walk in the park. But hey! No one ever said that learning how to start a lucrative venture was going to be easy. As with any business, you need to buckle up for the ride and anticipate the bumps along the way.

Your First Step: The Business Plan

A concrete business plan is your ticket to success. Think of it as your roadmap, marking out all the pit stops you need to make on your journey. It should outline your goals, target market, pricing strategy, and operational plan. Remember, the more detailed your roadmap, the smoother your journey will be.

Close up of a man singer sitting on a stool in a headphones with a guitar recording a track in a home studio

Picking Your Niche

Now let's talk about narrowing down your niche. You have probably heard this advice before but trust me when I say it's vital! By focusing on a particular segment of home staging - perhaps luxury homes or small apartments - you can become an expert in that field which sets you apart from competitors.

Mastering Marketing

You could have all the talent in the world, but if people don't know about you...do you really exist? This is where effective marketing comes in. Think about who your ideal client is and how you can reach them. Social media? Local newspapers? Word of mouth? There are plenty of options out there!

Man singer sitting on a window sill in a headphones with a guitar recording a track in a home studio

Funding Your Venture

Money makes the world go round - and it's certainly true when it comes to starting a home staging business. From buying staging furniture to promoting your services, things can add up quickly! Ensure you have a robust financial plan in place, factoring in not just initial costs but ongoing ones as well.

Minding Your Legalities

Last but not least, don't forget about legal requirements! Be sure to register your business name, apply for necessary permits and licenses, and consider getting insurance. After all, even the best-laid plans can encounter unexpected hiccups.

Cybersport,esport.  Professional Gamer Plays in Strategy Video Game on  Computer. Cyber Games Tournament, Plays at Home, or Internet Cafe.

The Secret Weapon: Desygner

We talked about marketing earlier and here's my secret weapon - Desygner! It's an amazing tool that lets you create professional designs for social media platforms, flyers or even email newsletters. The best part? You don't need any design skills to use it - it's that user-friendly!

Taking The Leap

By now, you should have a clearer picture of how to start a home staging business. Yes - there will be challenges and yes - there may be times when you question if all this is worth it. But remember - every successful entrepreneur has been where you are now. Take the leap - your future self will thank you for it!

Man singer sitting on a stool in a headphones with a guitar recording a track in a home studio

Wrapping Up the Essentials of Starting a Home Staging Business

Breaking into the home staging business is an exciting venture that combines creativity, strategy, and a keen eye for design. It's about embellishing a property to be visually enticing to potential buyers. A lucrative niche in the vast real estate market, it demands your artistic flair and business acumen.

Starting this venture involves several key steps. These include crafting a solid business plan, researching your local market, developing your design skills, and building strong connections within the real estate industry. It also requires commitment, dedication, and an unwavering passion for interior decoration.

  • Create a comprehensive business plan detailing your services, pricing structure, target market, and growth strategies.
  • Perform exhaustive market research to assess demand and competition in your locality.
  • Hone your design skills through courses or self-study - staying on top of trends.
  • Build networks with realtors who can provide access to potential clients.
  • Invest in high-quality furniture and decor items that will appeal to a wide range of tastes.
  • Develop a portfolio showcasing your best work to attract potential clients.
  • Promote your services using effective marketing strategies such as social media promotion and SEO optimization.
  • Utilize tools like Desygner to create professional designs for your promotions and presentations.

The journey of starting a home staging business is full of both challenges and rewards. If you have the drive to succeed and the artistic talent to create beautiful spaces, there's no limit to what you could achieve.

To give yourself a head start in the industry, sign up at Desygner today! With its extensive array of design tools, you'll be well-equipped to present stunning visuals that capture the essence of your brand and attract more clients. So why wait? Start shaping homes--and your thriving business--today!

Close up of a man singer sitting on a stool in a headphones with a guitar recording a track in a home studio

Mastering Marketing for Your Home Staging Business

Learn how to create compelling content that captivates your audience and boosts your Home Staging business. We offer insightful tips to make your content shine.

Creating Captivating Content for Your Home Staging Business

UNLOCK YOUR BUSINESS POTENTIAL!

Business Funding and Market Research

Home Staging Business Plan

Updated on January, 2024

Home Staging Business Plan

How to Write a Home Staging Business Plan?

Home Staging Business Plan is an outline of your overall home staging business. The home staging business plan should include a 5 year financial projection, marketing plan, industry analysis, organizational overview, operational overview and finally an executive summary. Remember to write your executive summary at the end as it is considered as a snapshot of the overall business plan. You need to be careful while writing the home staging business plan as you need to consider various factors that can impact the business’s success. Read the sample home staging business plan in order to have a clear understanding of the process.

You can spend 3 to 4 weeks trying to write your own Business Plan by browsing through free online resources or hire a professional writer for $2,000. There is a better way to do this-  Download our Home Staging Business Plan to write a plan in just 2 days .

This depends on your expected revenue and cost. Also, we need to consider the startup cost. Find out the answer- Is Candle Business Profitable?

Table of Contents

Executive summary, how to write an executive summary.

An executive summary should include four sections: an overview, a mission, a vision and an industry overview. The overview section should include details such as the business name, founder details and primary services and products. You can also include any USPs to highlight your competitive advantage. Click on this box to read the details of executive summary writing process. The executive summary should be written at the end and it should inspire the reader to go through the entire business plan. Checkout this sample executive summary for your home staging business plan.

Sophia Martinez established the Seattle, Washington-based DesignWise house Staging as an industry leader in house staging. When it comes to making houses presentable for sale, DesignWise is the go-to expert for making places that appeal to the eye. Our capacity to attract a diverse group of purchasers by combining modern style with practical features is our USP.

Our goal at DesignWise is to help each home reach its full selling potential. Quicker sales and maybe higher prices are possible outcomes of our efforts to highlight a home’s greatest characteristics via the creation of welcoming and distinctive rooms that increase buyer appeal..

Our mission is to become the most trusted name in house staging in the Pacific Northwest, known for our innovative ideas, meticulous planning, and unwavering dedication to excellence. We want to revolutionize the real estate industry by establishing new standards for house staging.

Industry Overview

More and more sellers and real estate agents are seeing the benefits of professional home staging in getting their houses sold quickly and for top dollar, which has a significant impact on the home staging business. There are a lot of openings for home staging businesses in the expanding real estate industry and the increasingly popular practice of marketing properties online, where first impressions are crucial.

Financial Highlights

Earnings & profitability.

Screenshot 2023 12 28 at 1.00.49 PM

Break-Even Analysis

Screenshot 2023 12 28 at 1.08.02 PM

Business Description

Business Name: DesignWise Home Staging

Founders: Sophia Martinez

Management Team: [You can ignore this/ delete this but its better to provide it]

1 11

Legal Structure: LLC

Location: Miami

Goals & Objectives:

  • Build a Strong Client Base: Connect with other real estate agents, provide discounted prices to first-time customers, and reward loyal customers with referrals.
  • Enhance Brand Recognition: Establish a distinct identity for your business, team up with regional real estate firms, and promote your services extensively on social media.
  • Deliver High-Quality Staging Services: Make advantage of customer feedback to enhance services, purchase high-quality furniture and décor, and stay abreast of current home design trends.
  • Expand Services Portfolio: Educate do-it-yourself stagers, collaborate with photographers to provide discounted packages, and expand your offerings to include virtual staging and interior design advice.
  • Achieve Financial Stability: Be sure to keep an eye on your cash flow, make strategy adjustments according on your financial research, and look into other ways to make money, such renting out space for events or businesses.
  • Foster a Creative Community: Get involved in home design-related community activities, build an attractive portfolio, and team up with local artists to create one-of-a-kind décor.
  • Incorporate Cutting-Edge Technology : Make sure you’re using the most recent virtual staging software, get top-notch imaging equipment, and provide virtual consultations.
  • Develop Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with home remodeling services, network with local real estate agents, and cultivate ties with furniture suppliers to increase referrals.  
  • Receive Industry Recognition: Help spread the word by entering your work in home staging awards, contacting media outlets to be featured in home and design publications, and urging satisfied customers to spread the word.
  • Sustainability and Social Responsibility: Participate in local environmental activities, stage your house with eco-friendly and sustainable products, and host seminars on sustainable home décor.

Services: 

  • Home Staging Consultation: Help homeowners increase their houses’ resale value by evaluating their properties and offering staging advice.
  • Furniture and Decor Selection: Provide a well chosen assortment of furnishings and décor to make the house a more welcoming and beautiful place to live.
  • Space Optimization: Help make the most of the available space by rearranging the furniture and décor already in the house.
  • Customized Staging Plans: Create one-of-a-kind staging ideas for every house after researching the neighborhood, school district, and potential buyers.
  • Virtual Staging Services :Make use of virtual staging software to let customers see how different furniture and layouts might look in empty houses.
  • Model Home Staging: Real estate developers use staged model houses to show off the finished products to potential purchasers.
  • Renovation Advice: Make some recommendations for inexpensive fixes that might boost a home’s curb appeal and sell price.
  • Photography and Videography: Make use of expert photographers and videographers to get the most out of the staged house for advertising purposes.
  • Accessory Rental: You may save your customers the trouble of buying expensive accessories and artwork by renting them instead.
  • Move-In Services: After buying a staged property, you should help the new owners arrange their furniture and decorations so that they look their best.
  • Market Analysis: Perform market research to stay abreast of industry trends; counsel clients on staging techniques that would attract their ideal customers.
  • E-Staging Consultations: If your customer prefers remote services or lives far away, you may still provide them staging consults online.
  • Real Estate Agent Partnerships: Work together with real estate brokers to include staging in the listing packages they provide.
  • Open House Preparation: Make sure that residences are spotless and ready to show before open houses by lending a hand.
  • Event Staging: Put houses on display for one-time events or showcases to make them more appealing.

Financial Overview

Startup cost, revenue & cost projection, profitability & cash flow projection, business model, tips on business model canvas.

The Business Model Canvas is a high-level overview of the business model. It can also be considered as the business model map in the overall tire shop business plan. The important partners, key activities, value proposition and cost & revenue sections are only some of the nine vital components. A company idea’s complexities may be mapped out, analyzed and communicated with the use of the canvas. It shows the whole picture of a company’s value creation, delivery and capture processes. It helps new business owners hone their ideas, encourage creative thinking and make sound strategic decisions. It’s a helpful resource for coming up with ideas, organizing plans and presenting business models to key players tire shop business plan.

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Tips on SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis is integral to the home staging business plan. It offers a clear lens into a company’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. This self-awareness enables effective resource allocation and strategic positioning against competitors. Businesses can mitigate risks, make informed decisions and set realistic goals. In addition, presenting a SWOT analysis in a business plan communicates to stakeholders that the company possesses a deep understanding of its market environment. In essence, SWOT ensures a business’s strategy is grounded in reality enhancing its chances of success.

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Marketing Plan

How to write your marketing plan.

In your home staging business plan, the marketing plan concisely focuses on customer engagement & competitive strategies, incorporating a marketing budget, promotional channels, brand management and a go-to-market approach. It requires understanding the target audience and competition, setting defined marketing goals and developing a strategy that blends these elements. This approach ensures efficient budget use, leverages appropriate channels for promotion, maintains brand integrity and executes a solid market entry strategy.

Promotional Channels

Social media marketing – $15,000 (30%).

  • Platform Focus: Concentrate on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook, which are ideal for showcasing visually appealing home interiors. Use before-and-after photos and virtual staging transformations.
  • Paid Ads: Target ads towards real estate agents, homeowners, and property investors. Utilize Facebook and Instagram’s targeted advertising to reach local audiences.
  • Content Strategy: Post engaging content like home staging tips, style trends, and client testimonials. Use Instagram Stories and Reels for quick, engaging walkthroughs of staged homes.

Website and SEO – $10,000 (20%)

  • Website Revamp: Ensure the website is visually attractive, showcasing your portfolio with high-quality images. Include easy navigation to services and contact information.
  • Blog Content: Regularly update a blog with home staging tips, design trends, and success stories to drive organic traffic.
  • SEO: Focus on keywords related to home staging, interior design, and local real estate markets to improve search engine rankings.

Email Marketing – $5,000 (10%)

  • Newsletter: Create a monthly newsletter featuring recent projects, design tips, and special offers or promotions.
  • Segmentation: Customize content for different audiences, like homeowners, real estate agents, and property developers.

Local Partnerships – $7,000 (14%)

  • Real Estate Events: Collaborate with local real estate agencies and open houses, offering your staging services to enhance property sales.
  • Community Engagement: Partner with local home decor stores or artists for unique furnishings and artwork in your staging.

Influencer and Blogger Collaborations – $6,000 (12%)

  • Collaborations: Work with local home decor bloggers or influencers to showcase your staged homes, tapping into their follower base.
  • Sponsorship Deals: Offer staging services for high-profile properties or charity events in exchange for publicity.

Direct Mail and Local Advertising – $4,000 (8%)

  • Direct Mail: Send out well-designed brochures or postcards to local real estate offices and property investors.
  • Local Media: Invest in advertising in local lifestyle magazines, real estate publications, and community bulletins.

Referral Program – $3,000 (6%)

  • Referral Incentives: Offer incentives like discounts or free consultations to clients who refer new business to your staging company.

Brand Management

Social media marketing.

  • Brand Voice and Visual Identity: Develop a brand voice that resonates with homeowners, real estate agents, and property investors, emphasizing your expertise in enhancing property appeal. Use a consistent visual style across platforms featuring before-and-after photos, staged interiors, and decor highlights.
  • User-Generated Content: Encourage clients to share their staged home photos and experiences. Re-share these with a focus on the transformation and client satisfaction.
  • Live Showcases: Host live tours of staged homes on platforms like Instagram or Facebook, providing styling tips and interacting with viewers.

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) and Local SEO

  • Ad Copy: Highlight unique services like virtual staging, quick turnaround times, or your expertise in various interior design styles.
  • Website Optimization: Ensure your website showcases your portfolio in a visually appealing manner, is user-friendly, and is optimized for relevant keywords like “home staging,” “real estate staging,” and “interior design.”
  • Google My Business: Keep your listing updated with high-quality images of your work, services offered, and contact information for local search visibility.

Email Marketing

  • Newsletter: Share insights on home staging trends, before-and-after stories, and special offers.
  • Segmentation: Craft different emails for homeowners, real estate agents, and property developers, tailoring the content to their specific interests and needs.

Local Partnerships and Sponsorships

  • Real Estate Events: Partner with local real estate agencies or open house events, offering your staging services to enhance property visibility.
  • Collaboration with Interior Design Schools: Offer guest lectures or workshops, building connections with budding designers who might refer clients in the future.

Content Marketing

  • Educational Content: Create blog posts and videos on home staging tips, design trends, and real estate market insights.
  • Behind-the-Scenes: Share stories from your staging projects, providing insights into the process and the impact.

Influencer and Blogger Collaborations

  • Partnerships with Local Influencers: Collaborate with lifestyle or home decor influencers, showcasing your staging in their content.
  • Content Collaboration: Co-create content that highlights both the aesthetic appeal of your staging and the influencer’s personal style.

Offline Advertising

  • Local Media and Print: Advertise in local home and lifestyle magazines, community newspapers, and real estate publications.
  • Community Boards and Home Improvement Stores: Display your business cards and flyers in strategic locations frequented by your target audience.

Referral Program

  • Incentivize Referrals: Offer discounts or free consultations for clients who refer new business to your staging service.

Go To Market Strategy

Online presence and community engagement.

  • Professional Website: Create a website that highlights your home staging portfolio, client testimonials, and a blog with staging tips and trends. Include an easy-to-use contact form for inquiries.
  • Content Marketing: Regularly publish articles on home decor trends, before-and-after showcases, and staging benefits for sellers.
  • Local Directory Listings: Ensure your business is listed in online home service directories and local business listings.
  • Partnerships: Build relationships with real estate agencies, local decorators, and furniture stores for cross-promotion and referral opportunities.

Studio Launch Event and Promotional Offers

  • Grand Opening Event: Organize an event to introduce your services, perhaps staging a home and inviting real estate agents and potential clients to tour it.
  • Introductory Discounts: Offer discounts for the first staging project or bundled services for multiple properties to new clients.

Digital Marketing and Customer Relations

  • Social Media Campaigns: Use platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook to showcase your projects, share staging tips, and post client feedback.
  • Email Marketing: Develop a newsletter with updates on your projects, special offers, and home staging tips to engage with your audience.
  • Loyalty Program: Create a program rewarding real estate agents or repeat clients with discounts or complimentary services for referrals.

Brand Awareness and Public Relations

  • Local Media Outreach: Connect with local publications for features on home staging, share success stories, and offer home decor tips.
  • Community Involvement: Get involved in local home shows, real estate open houses, and community events.
  • Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with home decor bloggers or local influencers to showcase your staging and reach a broader audience.

Performance Tracking

  • Analytics and Feedback: Use tools like Google Analytics to track website traffic and collect client feedback to gauge the success of your strategies.
  • Adaptation: Be flexible and ready to adjust your approach based on feedback, market trends, and what’s most effective in engaging your target audience.

Organizational Overview

How to write your organizational overview.

Organizational overview in a home staging business plan provides a snapshot of how a company is structured and operates. It outlines the ownership structure, roles, responsibilities of key management personnel and the reporting hierarchy within the organization. This section offers stakeholders, investors and other readers a clear understanding of the company’s leadership and its chain of command. Additionally, it may give insight into the company’s culture, values and operational philosophy. home staging business plan

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At the head of Miami’s house staging business is Sophia Martinez, who combines an innate sense of style with a wealth of information about current real estate trends. She started off with a desire to make a difference in people’s lives via the environments she worked in, and now she blends real estate marketing with interior design. Sophia is uniquely qualified to boost the aesthetic appeal and market value of houses because to her combined knowledge in real estate and interior design.

Sophia is an expert home stager with a background in real estate and interior design who knows how to attract a diverse group of purchasers. She is well regarded in the home staging industry for her extensive knowledge of the real estate market and her natural flair for design. Her expertise in making homes more aesthetically pleasing has helped sellers get better prices and reduce the amount of time their properties spend on the market.

Sophia started her house staging firm in Miami, a city famous for its varied architecture and thriving real estate market, since she was enterprising. Her company goes beyond simple house staging; it aims to create an emotional connection between the property and prospective purchasers. She places an emphasis on making rooms that speak to the dreams of potential purchasers since she knows how important first impressions are.

Every project she works on demonstrates her dedication to quality and meticulousness. Her staging tactics are cutting-edge and successful because she has an excellent sense of style trends and a thorough knowledge of her target demographics. The company’s success is based on its capacity to make homes out of any kind of space, no matter how big or little.

Sophia has extensive involvement in the Miami real estate sector outside of her firm. She keeps herself informed of industry developments by regularly attending and contributing to local seminars and networking events. She is able to further her career and establish herself as an important player in Miami’s ever-changing real estate market by her engagement in this.

With Sophia Martinez at the helm, her home staging company is going to make waves in Miami’s real estate market, known for its innovative techniques, dedication to client happiness, and market expertise. Sophia’s story is about more than just her career achievements; it’s about her heartfelt love of design and her commitment to making Miami’s real estate market better for everyone.

Positions and Responsibilities

Chief executive officer (ceo) – sophia martinez:.

In charge of making decisions, developing the company, and creating long-term strategies.

Creating and nurturing connections with developers and real estate brokers.

Keeping an eye on the company’s development and financial picture.

Operations Manager:

Taking charge of routine company tasks, such as scheduling and project administration.

Directing the staging process to ensure high quality and an effective workflow.

Managing relationships with suppliers and contractors.

Interior Designers/Stagers:

Coming up with and carrying out staging strategies for different houses.

Keeping up with the latest design trends and implementing them into renovation projects.

Establishing aesthetically pleasing environments while staying within financial limitations.

Client Relations Manager:

Managing customer queries, consultations, and comments.

Developing and nurturing meaningful connections with customers to guarantee their continued patronage and recommendation.

Managing and negotiating contracts with clients…

Marketing and Social Media Coordinator:

Creating and executing promotional plans for the home staging company.

In charge of the company’s web content and social media accounts.

Making promotional materials and interacting with the target demographic via several mediums.

Financial Controller:

Keeping an eye on the money side of things, which includes things like budgets, books, and reports.

Managing billing, invoicing, and payroll.

Making sure that all financial rules are followed.

Inventory Manager:

Keeping track of all the décor, accessories, and furniture used for staging.

Keeping an eye on the comings and goings of inventories.

Managing the daily operations of stock movement into and out of buildings.

Logistics Coordinator:

Taking care of the transportation of staging goods between locations.

Keeping the staging pieces put up and taken down on schedule by coordinating with the movers.

Manages and oversees the upkeep of transportation vehicles.

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Operational Overview

Standard home staging services.

  • Effective Methods for Staging: Adding modern, eye-catching furnishings and decorations to a home may increase its market value.
  • Apt for a Range of Real Estate: Residential homes, flats, and business spaces may all benefit from personalized staging.
  • Provide clients with a range of staging options to suit their various demands, including complete house staging, partial staging, or virtual staging.

Interior Design Consultation

  • Give homeowners and real estate agents your professional opinion on how to improve the look of their homes’ interiors.
  • Personalized Approach: Modify suggested layouts to complement the unique architectural features of each home.

Space Optimization and Redesign

  • Maximize the practicality and attractiveness of the area by rearranging the furniture and décor that is already there.
  • As part of your redesign service, you may work with your customers’ current furniture or source additional items as required.

Virtual Staging Services

  • Digital Staging Solutions: Showcase possible furniture layouts and décor using digital technologies to visually stage properties.
  • Quick and Affordable: Provide a speedier and less expensive alternative for conventional staging, perfect for use with internet property listings.

Home Staging Workshops

  • Workshops for Education: Hold seminars teaching real estate agents and homeowners the ropes of interior design and house staging.
  • Take advanced classes for those who want to be home stagers so they may develop in their careers.

Photography and Videography

  • Showcase your staged house professionally by capturing it with high-quality photography and film.

Rental of Staging Furniture and Decor

  • Extensive Selection: Rent a wide range of furniture and décor items to meet various staging demands.
  • The delivery, setup, and removal of rented products are all part of the service.

Customized Staging Packages

  • Personalized Service: Create one-of-a-kind staging packages according to the specific needs of homeowners, real estate brokers, and property developers.
  • Competitive Pricing: Present a range of staging services at competitive prices.

Post-Staging Services

  • Visits after Staging: Help evaluate the results and make any required revisions by scheduling follow-up visits.
  • Help customers turn their staged properties into living homes after the sale with our move-in services.

Marketing and Promotional Activities

  • Staging for Open Houses: Provide specialized staging services to enhance the visual attractiveness of properties during open houses.
  • Collaborations with Property Management Companies: Join together with property management companies to provide continuous staging assistances.

Industry Analysis

Tips on industry analysis.

The industry analysis section of the home staging business plan offers a detailed exploration of the market environment. It identifies current challenges and potential opportunities within the industry, segments the target market to pinpoint specific consumer demographics, assesses the market’s overall size for growth potential and examines influential industry forces. This thorough analysis is essential for developing strategic business approaches, aligning objectives with market trends and positioning the company for competitive success

With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2022–2027, the worldwide recording studio market is projected to reach $69.06 billion by 2027. Rising expectations for professional-grade music production, a thriving independent music scene, and innovative tools for making music are the forces propelling the sector forward.

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With more than 30% of the world’s market, the US is far and away the biggest market for studio recording services. The UK, Japan, Germany, and France are among the other important markets. Due to rising demand for music in developing countries like India and China, the Asia Pacific area is predicted to outpace all others in terms of growth for recording studio services in the next years.

Numerous small and medium-sized businesses make up the recording studio sector, which is quite fragmented. Nonetheless, major corporations like Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Universal Music Group are present. Recording, producing, mixing, and mastering are just a few of the many services offered by these major players.

The growth of digital music distribution and the fall of physical music sales are two of the many problems plaguing the recording studio business. In spite of this, businesses are adjusting to the new normal by putting more emphasis on digital sales and providing innovative services like online mixing and mastering.

Other key trends and stats:

  • The rise of streaming services has led to an increased demand for high-quality music production.
  • The growth of the independent music scene has created more opportunities for recording studios.
  • The development of new music production technology has made it more affordable and accessible for artists to record their music.
  • The recording studio industry is a major contributor to the global economy, generating over $50 billion in revenue each year.
  • The industry directly employs over 1 million people worldwide.

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Industry Problems 

  • High Operating Costs: Find affordable furniture and simplify inventory management.
  • Client Acquisition and Retention : Put a customer relationship management (CRM) system into action and boost your online visibility.
  • Diverse Client Expectations: Keep up with the latest trends in interior design and provide staging packages that may be customized to meet your needs.
  • Logistics and Time Management: Make the most efficient use of time and resources while staging and de-staging homes.
  • Space Utilization: Maximize the attractiveness of rooms with different sizes and layouts by coming up with innovative techniques.
  • Quality and Style Consistency: Staging should be of a constant high standard in order to establish a reputation for the business.
  • Market Adaptation: Keep tabs on market changes and adjust services as needed.
  • Networking with Real Estate Agents: Build and maintain connections with other real estate agents to facilitate referrals and joint ventures.
  • Budget Constraints of Clients: You need to make your services flexible enough to accommodate clients with varying budgets.
  • Storage and Maintenance of Inventory: Keep merchandise in pristine condition and storage areas organized efficiently.

Industry Opportunities

  • Flexible Service Packages: Provide a variety of staging packages, from partial staging to consultations for do-it-yourself customers, to meet the demands and budgets of your various clientele.
  • Digital Showcasing and Virtual Staging: Make use of virtual staging using digital technologies to give customers an idea of how their homes may look before they buy. Customers who are unable to physically visit your properties might become clients via this.
  • Quality and Style Diversification: Accommodate a broad variety of customer tastes and property types by stocking up on high-quality furnishings and décor that appeal to different aesthetic inclinations.
  • Professional Development and Networking: Keep your staff up-to-date on all the newest interior design trends by providing them with regular training, and cultivate solid relationships with local real estate brokers and developers to get recommendations and work together.
  • Creating an Inviting Staging Environment: Make sure every room in the house exudes an air of refined hospitality to attract a wide range of prospective purchasers.
  • Streamlined Communication and Client Engagement: Raise customer happiness by listening to their feedback and adjusting the staging process accordingly based on their ideas and preferences via open and frequent communication.
  • Comprehensive Service Offering: Offer a comprehensive package to customers by include extra services such as professional photos, little repairs, or decluttering.
  • Convenient Location and Efficient Logistics: For easy movement and rapid staging setups, make sure your storage sites are appropriately positioned.
  • Privacy and Security Measures: Build trust and a solid reputation as a professional by taking precautions to protect client privacy and property protection throughout the staging process.
  • Customizable and Client-Centric Approach: Showcase your adaptability and client-centric approach by customizing your services to meet the unique needs of each project and fulfill the client’s goal.

Target Market Segmentation

Geographic segmentation:.

  • Local Communities: Focus on specific residential areas or neighborhoods, understanding their unique real estate market trends and preferences.
  • City vs. Suburban Areas: Differentiate your services for urban city properties and suburban homes, tailoring your staging to suit the typical buyer’s expectations in each area.

Demographic Segmentation:

  • Age Groups: Tailor staging styles to appeal to different age demographics, like modern, minimalist designs for younger buyers or more classic, comfortable layouts for older demographics.
  • Income Levels: Offer varied staging options, from cost-effective solutions for budget-conscious clients to high-end luxury staging for upscale properties.
  • Cultural Diversity: Embrace the cultural diversity of your area by incorporating design elements that appeal to various cultural aesthetics and traditions.

Psychographic Segmentation:

  • DIY Enthusiasts: Offer consultation services for clients interested in staging their homes themselves but who need professional guidance.
  • Real Estate Investors: Provide specialized services for real estate investors, focusing on maximizing property value and marketability.

Behavioral Segmentation:

  • Home Sellers: Focus on clients looking to sell their homes, offering services that enhance property appeal to a broad range of potential buyers.
  • Real Estate Agents and Developers: Develop relationships with real estate agents and property developers for regular staging contracts.
  • Event-Based Staging: Offer staging services for events like open houses or real estate shows.

Technological Segmentation:

  • Tech-Savvy Clients: Utilize virtual staging and digital previews for clients who appreciate technology-driven solutions.
  • Traditional Clients: For clients who prefer a more traditional approach, focus on personal consultations and physical staging previews.

Market Size

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  • Total Addressable Market (TAM) for Home Staging: All prospective customers in the United States who may be in need of home staging services are included in this most extensive market scenario for your company. Not only do real estate agents and developers make up the TAM, but so do individual house sellers. Factors impacting this market size include real estate industry trends as a whole, rising numbers of homes listed for sale, the popularity of house staging as a marketing strategy, and the number of homes being built. Gaining familiarity with the TAM might help you envision the pinnacle of success your company could achieve.
  • Serviceable Addressable Market (SAM) for Home Staging: Based on the data gathered from the TAM, the SAM zeroes down on the subset of the market that your company can best service. Included in this category are customers that fall within your target demographic, are located within your geographic reach, and need the specific staging services you provide. Your SAM may be customized to focus on certain areas, such as your expertise in eco-friendly, sustainable staging procedures or high-end property staging. The SAM shows you exactly where your advertising and new service development dollars will have the most return.
  • Serviceable Obtainable Market (SOM) for Home Staging: Taking into account your present company capability and competitive situation, the SOM is basically your target market that is feasible. It is the portion of your SAM that you have a good chance of capturing with your current assets, reputation, price plan, service quality, and marketing efficacy. Establishing reasonable goals for sales and growth relies heavily on the SOM. As a result, you are better able to focus your company strategies.

Industry Forces

Market trends and client demands:.

Trends in the real estate market have a significant impact on the house staging sector. Staging services are in high demand when house sales are on the rise. Customers also want modern, eye-catching designs that will make their homes stand out in crowded real estate marketplaces.

Competition:

 Home staging businesses in your area and independent interior designers are among your competition. You may set yourself apart from the competition by offering services that are distinctive in style, affordable, and backed by outstanding customer service. It may also be useful to highlight any specialized knowledge, like eco-friendly staging or luxury home staging.

Technological Advancements:

Efficient project management software, social media marketing, and virtual staging capabilities in design software may help businesses save time and money while attracting new customers. The use of digital presentations and virtual tours to showcase staged homes is on the rise.

Regulatory and Legal Considerations: 

It is essential to be aware of and abide by any property laws and municipal regulations that may affect company operations. To further safeguard your company, it is essential to have liability insurance and to have contracts that spell out the services and conditions in detail.

Economic Factors:

Economic fluctuations have an effect on customers’ propensity to spend money on home staging. If you are alert to these changes, you may adapt your marketing and service offers to the current economic situation.

Supplier Relationships: 

It is critical to have positive connections with providers of furniture and décor. This may be useful for finding the greatest deals and keeping up with the newest styles in home decor and furniture.

Client Preferences and Expectations: 

You need to make sure that your staging ideas are appealing to a wide variety of prospective purchasers. In order to sell their houses as soon and for as much as possible, clients rely on beautiful, high-quality staging.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility: 

Sustainable and ecologically friendly actions, including recycling décor pieces or utilizing eco-friendly materials, may improve your business image and attract customers who are concerned about the environment.

Workforce Management:

It is critical to choose well-trained designers and staff members who have received training in modern house staging techniques and excellent customer service. Consistently high-quality service relies on happy and loyal employees.

Tips on Financial Modeling & Analysis

One of the most important and comprehensive parts of a home staging business plan is the financial modeling and analysis section. It includes essential elements such as an Investment and Capital Expenditure Summary that details the necessary funds, a Revenue Summary that estimates profits, a Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) Summary that details the expenses of manufacturing or services and an Operating Expenses (OpEx) Summary that presents the costs of everyday operations. An Income Statement that shows how profitable the business is, a Cash Flow Statement that shows how liquid the funds are and a Balance Sheet that shows the overall financial health of the organization round out the part. For stakeholders to make educated decisions it is crucial to have a comprehensive picture of the company’s financial health and development possibilities.

Investment & Capital Expenditure

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Revenue Summary

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Cost of Goods Sold Summary

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OpEX Summary

Screenshot 2023 12 28 at 12.53.11 PM

Income Statement

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Cash Flow Statement

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Balance Sheet

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Home Staging Business Plan Sample

OCT.02, 2018

Home Staging Business Plan Sample

Do you want to start home staging business plan?

Do you want to start a home staging company? Well, it can be the best choice, as almost all property owners want to enhance the curb appeal of their property before selling it to a potential buyer. The business is beyond just decorating or cleaning a house, it is about fixing the minor issues like loose handles, or inoperable electrical sockets or LEDs, repainting walls, rearranging the furniture and much more.

Starting a staging company , can be really beneficial to you, provided that you plan and execute it properly. To help you in initiating your business, we are providing here a sample business plan of home staging business startup named, ‘Jaxon Home Staging Company’.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Jaxon Home Staging Company will be located in the metropolitan area in San Diego. The business will be based on increasing the curb appeal to attract potential buyers for your property. The company will clean each and every corner of your property and fix every type of issues with your plumbing, wiring or drainage system and finally arranging the things in your house in the most appealing manner.

2.2 Management

The company will be owned and managed by Jaxon Ben, Jaxon has a detailed knowledge about how to start a home staging business , as he had been associated with this type of business for the past 6 years. Jaxon will hire a dedicated and experienced crew for carrying out the works required for running this business.

2.3 Customers

If you are looking for how to start a staging company , the thing that can benefit you the most in devising your services and marketing policies is knowing your customers.

Our major customers will be the property owners who want to renew their residential and commercial estate before selling it. We will provide our high-quality and fast services to our customers in the whole San Diego.

2.4 Target of the Company

The company aims at becoming the best and the most reputed home staging company in the whole San Diego within just a year of the launch.

Home Staging Business Plan Template

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

The company will be owned by Jaxon Ben. Jaxon had been running a window cleaning service for the last 6 years and is passionate to start a new business with a wider scope. Jaxon has done an extensive research on how to start home staging business , he has even prepared a rough home staging business model including the details of equipment and manpower needed for the startup.

3.2 Why the Business is being started

The business is started by the purpose of serving more and more people at a wider scale, and generating profit. Jaxon has chosen the home staging business for himself as he thinks this will be the most suitable, profitable and easy to run business for him due to his prior experience in almost this field. Moreover, this business requires an ambitious person with a great eye while having a large amount of investment group for a startup as an advantage, not as a requirement. This is the basic reason why so many people including Jaxon direct their interests towards a staging business.  Jaxon aims at providing incomparable service to his customers and make his company the most reputed and trusted one. The detailed sample business plan Jaxon has made is here for your help, if you are too looking for how to start a staging business .

3.3 How the Business will be started

Jaxon has decided to take a building in the metropolitan area on rent, and convert it into his company’s office by buying the required inventory and by hiring the required staff. The company will be licensed and insured. The tools and chemicals required for getting the house in a purely new state will be bought, and the company will also buy some materials if needed to enhance the curb appeal of your property. Jaxon knows that he and his business will solely be dependent on the work efficiency and hard work of his staff. So, he has decided to hire dedicated and skillful workers before one month of the launch to train them according to his requirements. The startup requirements area as follows:

Home Staging Business Plan - Startup Cost

The detailed startup requirements are as follows:

Services for customers

Before you start home staging business , you must think about the services you want to provide to your customers and make a detailed strategy about which things will be required to implement those services.

In case, you are looking for how to start a house staging business  and which services you’ll need to provide, you can take help from this sample business plan.

Jaxon will provide the following services to its customers:

  • Home Staging/ Enhancing Property: Our major service will be to enhance and renew your property, by staging it. We’ll update the house and do thorough cleaning of the places which are usually ignored such as windowsills, drawers, closets, tiles, showers, tables etc. We’ll furnish your property, fix and repaint the holes and cracks, repair the minor damages and add lightning and a spacious look to your rooms.
  • Interior Designing: To increase the beauty of your estate, we’ll place mirrors, rugs, hangings, baskets, decoration pieces, and much more inside your property. We’ll do interior designing by adding small furniture items, art supplies, paintings, and accessories to elevate the visual attractiveness of your house.
  • Auctioning Property: We’ll also auction your valuable property items to help you in finding the highest bidder.
  • Facilitating a Purchase: We’ll also facilitate you and your customers by guiding and enabling them to go through the procedures require for making a purchase.

Marketing Analysis of Home Staging Business

Marketing Analysis is undoubtedly the most important factor that decides the success of your home staging startup . No matter how high-quality services you aim to provide to your customers, that all will be going fruitless if you failed to market your business. Before thinking about how to start your own home staging business , you must think that whether the market in which you are going to open your business has the potential of a new startup or not.

Before starting a home staging company , you must analyze the segments of the market to get a know-how about their demands and requirements. Knowing your customers before starting a home staging company  is the key to achieve success in this business. Understanding the market trends and outlining them in your home staging business plan template , will also help you in deciding the prices of your products and services to attract the maxim of people.

If you are starting a home staging business , and you don’t know about how to market a home staging business  effectively, then you can take help from this home staging business plan sample  of Jaxon Home Staging Company free of cost. Still, a better practice is to hire a marketing analyst to make a home staging proposal template  for you according to your market and locality.

5.1 Market Trends

Home staging businesses are in great demand as they increase the value of one’s house and property as sellers never want to sell their property for less money. Statistics show that about 156 thousand single-family homes were sold after staging in 2013 in the United States which was a 16 percent more than the previous year. According to statists and studies from more than 22,500 sources, it is reported that in 2017 about 5.51 million previously existing houses were sold in the United States and the number is expected to increase in the coming years.

Moreover, a survey by National Association of Realtors have reported that 77% of buyers found it easy to visualize the property when it is staged. And you will surely be amazed to know this report by NAEBA, National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents, after they had surveyed brokers and agents that, about 82% buyers are likely to have distracted from some important issues when they walk through a staged house.  So the demand of home staging business can never be down as most of the previously existing houses need to be staged before getting sold.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

It is really important to analyze your target market before making a business plan home staging . The detailed analysis of who will be your customers and what will be their requirements must be included in your home staging business plan . As successful business owners are the one who understand their customers’ demands and find the most effective ways to fulfill their requirements by providing them an easy availability to the services. Jaxon had hired the services of an expert to do an accurate marketing analysis for his business, you can also take help from this sample business plan if you too are seeking help for making an effective business plan.

Our expert has identified the following groups of people that can be our future customers:

Home Staging Business Plan - Marketing Segmentation

The detailed analysis of our target audience is as follows:

5.2.1 Real Estate Owners: Our biggest target customer will be the real estate business owners of both residential and commercial properties. What do you think they want before selling their property? Yes, they want to make their property as attractive as possible that makes the buyer knocks with cash without thinking twice. Staging the house not only increase the curb appeal but also make the property look wider and spacious. It is an excellent opportunity for the property owners to create a living and inviting atmosphere for the potential buyers. A sparkling, well dressed and properly staged house not only give the feeling of comfort to the buyers but also distract their attention from the minor issues.

5.2.2 Sellers’ Agents: The second category comprises of the sellers’ agents who are responsible for facilitating the buying and purchase of a business, and sometimes are given the charge of property for renovation. A survey shows that about 58% of the sellers’ agent believe that staging had increased the value of their house by one to twenty percent. We will provide special discounts on our services so that they try our services at least for once. After the first encounter, we believe that they will obtain and trust our services for the rest of their career.

5.2.3 Local Residents: The local residents of any city require time to time maintenance of their houses and property, and many especially the financially stable owners avoid the trouble of renovating their houses by calling professional home stagers. They require a home staging service to redecorate and modernize their houses by replacing the older things and arrangements with the newer ones. These people are also expected to utilize our auctioning service, for auctioning their old but valuable goods and entities.

5.3 Business Target

Our main business targets, short-term and long-term goals to be achieved are given below:

  • We aim at becoming the most renowned and the most trusted home staging business throughout San Diego in just two years of our launch
  • We aim at achieving the net profit margin of $10k per month by the end of the first year, $15k per month by the end of the second year, and $25k per month by the end of the third year
  • We aim at balancing the initial cost of the startup with earned profits by the end of the first year
  • Our target for the next 10 years of our launch is to open another branch of our business in the current or neighboring city

5.4 Product Pricing

To familiarize us and our services to our target audience we have priced our services low as compared to our competitors. We also have offered various discounts on our services to provide an easy accessibility of people towards our services.

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Thorough, sophisticated, professional and timely. Deliverables within all timelines.

If you are starting a house staging business , you must focus on making the policies which can prove beneficial for you in increasing your sales. So, before you take further steps in starting a staging business , you must make sure whether your sales strategy is effective or not.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

We will have a tough competition in the market, yet we believe that we will take a lead upon all our competitors because of the outstanding competitive aspects we are coming up with. Our biggest competitive advantage is that our company is not only licensed but insured too, it means if any damage occurs to your property and things due to the negligence and fault of our workers, you will be paid an equal amount to cover the damage. Secondly, we will provide unparalleled customer service, all our employees are dedicated and motivated to work and will treat the customers and their property with utmost respect, and will undertake all the possible efforts to provide the clients with maximum satisfaction.

6.2 Sales Strategy

Jaxon has decided to advertise his company by the following means:

  • We’ll market and advertise our services through print and social media
  • We’ll create a website of our company to collect the feedback from our customers
  • We’ll offer 20% discount on our services for the first two months of our launch

6.3 Sales Monthly

Home Staging Business Plan - Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

Home Staging Business Plan - Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Considering the quality of our services and market demand our sales pattern is expected to increase with years. Our experts have forecasted the following sales on a yearly basis which are summarized in the column charts:

Home Staging Business Plan - Sales Forecast

The detailed information about sales forecast, total unit sales, total sales is given in the following table:

Personnel Plan

For building a successful home staging business , you must hire a staff that will work with its full dedication and devotion as the success of a startup is directly affected by the performance of the staff. Considering the importance of employees, Jaxon had prepared a list of his required staff with their job descriptions before even acting on how to start a home staging company .

You can also take help from this sample business plan written for Jaxon Home Staging Company, if you are looking for how to open a home staging business .

7.1 Company Staff

Jaxon will be the owner and manager by himself and will hire the following persons to run the business:

  • 1 Project Manager to manage all the operations of a given project
  • 2 Accountants for maintaining financial records
  • 2 Sales Executives responsible for marketing and discovering new ventures
  • 10 Cleaners for doing the major work of cleaning
  • 5 General Workers responsible for working on staging house and decorating it
  • 2 Interior Designers for if the customer wants additional designing to his/her property
  • 2 Plumbers for repairing plumbing or drainage damages
  • 2 Technicians/Electricians to repair damages to any electrical system
  • 2 Receptionists for entertaining clients and also receiving orders via telephone
  • 1 Auctioneer for auctioning the property

Jaxon has decided to hire a HR Manager for further recruitment if needed for the staging of a property.

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan.

The final step for if you are starting home staging business  is to make the financial plan for your company to make sure that your startup will not end as a failure. Anyone who wants to do home staging for profit  must decide first that how he will finance his company generating a double triple of what he had invest. A financial plan must cover the details about how you will be able to manage your startup costs, the salaries of your employees and the costs of inventory with the profit earned and also if the company hasn’t succeeded in achieving its financial goals.

Jaxon had hired the services of a financial advisor to make an accurate and effective financial plan for him, outlining the finances needed for the development of the company to achieve its short or long-term objectives. If you are also going to enter this venture, you can take help from this sample business plan to estimate the cost to start a home staging business . We have provided the financial plan of Jaxon Home Staging Company for the next three years free of cost for anyone who needs assistance in devising an effective financial plan.

The details of sample financial plan for Jaxon Home Staging Company are given below:

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 brake-even analysis.

Home Staging Business Plan - Brake-even Analysis

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 profit monthly.

Home Staging Business Plan - Profit Monthly

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

Home Staging Business Plan - Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

Home Staging Business Plan - Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

Home Staging Business Plan - Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

Home Staging Business Plan - Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 business ratios.

Download Home Staging Business Plan Sample in pdf

OGS capital professional writers specialized also in themes such as hotel business planning , business plan for flipping houses , mortgage brokerage business plan , painting and decorating business plan , sample property management business plans , shelter business plan , etc.

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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Virtual Staging Business (As a Second Business)?

  • Post category: Virtual Staging Business

A virtual staging business is a similar model to a traditional home staging business, but it is conducted entirely online using digital editing techniques. This makes it an extremely accessible new business idea, especially for real estate agents looking to provide additional services to clients.

Launching a virtual staging company has exponentially lower startup and operating costs compared to physical home staging services that require purchasing real furniture and decor inventory, warehousing, and logistics.

The ability to provide virtual furnishings and home improvement previews as part of a realty package makes the virtual staging model up to 5 times cheaper than conventional staging businesses that need sizable upfront investment.

For realtors who already have established client networks, adding virtual staging as a new offering leverages existing assets. The digital approach aligns well with how the vast majority of buyers now begin their home searches online.

Providing virtual staging augmentations allows realty agents to stand out in a competitive landscape. And earning additional income from an allied staging business creates a useful revenue stream with modest incremental effort.

The low barriers to build a virtual business, easy integration with realtor service portfolios, and rapid growing interest of home buyers in digital staging options makes this an idea worth exploring under almost any market conditions.

What is home staging business?

Home staging is the business of preparing and showcasing residential properties for sale to increase their appeal, value, and selling price. Home staging involves strategically furnishing, decorating, and improving the presentation of properties to impress potential buyers and help sellers get the highest offers.

Key aspects of a home staging business include:

  • Consultation – Assessing properties to determine staging needs and recommend improvements
  • Furnishing – Bringing in furniture, lighting, artwork, accessories to showcase homes
  • Decorating – Designing and arranging furnishings for optimal presentation and flow
  • Depersonalizing – Removing clutter and items that distract buyers from imagining themselves living there
  • Cosmetic enhancements – Painting, landscaping, cleaning to fix up the property
  • Photography – Capturing homes in their best light with professional photography

The home staging process transforms empty or poorly presented spaces into inviting, well-designed home environments. Staging highlights assets through furniture placement, makes rooms feel larger with mirrors, uses color schemes and decor to convey moods, and removes distractions. The strategic changes get buyers excited about properties.

Home staging is a service business that works closely with realtors and homeowners to prepare listings for sale. The staging maximizes the sales price and return on investment for clients. Successful home staging companies require skills in interior design, organization, project management, marketing and real estate.

The startup and operating costs for a physical home staging business are significantly higher than a virtual staging business:

  • Home staging requires purchasing real furniture and decor inventory which can cost $5,000-$20,000+ to start. Virtual staging only needs a digital furniture library.
  • Home stagers need large storage warehouses and trucks to transport inventory, major expenses virtual stagers don’t have.
  • Salaries, marketing, legal fees and other operating costs are lower for virtual stagers.

Estimated startup costs:

  • Home staging business: $10,000 – $60,000+
  • Virtual staging business: $5,000 – $20,000

First year operating costs:

  • Home staging: $20,000 – $100,000+
  • Virtual staging: $5,000 – $20,000

Given the significantly lower startup and operating costs, virtual staging is a more accessible business for realtors to add as a service compared to traditional home staging. It requires less upfront investment and lower ongoing costs.

Consider starting with virtual staging as an add-on business and gradually expanding into physical staging as your company and budget grows over time. The combination of both services provides maximum value for clients.

3 key questions about the virtual staging BUSINESS

How to start a virtual staging business.

To start your own virtual home staging services company you need to choose company name, register it as a business, have a business plan, consider the market where your company will operate, hire a team or learn how to do the staging yourself, set prices for your staging services, prepare marketing, connect with agents and housing developers and execute on your business.

Below are the most important steps in a list format:

  • Select your strategy
  • Consider your market
  • Learn how virutal staging works
  • Hire virtual stagers in-house or outsrouce
  • Develop a pricing structure
  • Prepare your marketing and network of agents

When is the best time to start a virtual staging business

Home staging and virtual staging businesses are proven to work at all times of the real estate market; booming or busing people need to sell – buy and move houses. Booming: When the market is booming your virtual staging business can help and make any property stand out from the rest at a very low cost to the business or sellers. Downfall: When markets are in the downfall or bouyant staging businesses help to make the property appeal to the right buyers envisioning the best side of the property.

Why to start virutal staging business?

Staging businesses tend to do well at all times, and costs associated with starting one are not high as any other business. In 2020 it was estimated that the real estate market stands at $200Tn; There are millions of properties for sale globally at any given time in any country and especially with virtual staging you can reach all of them if that’s your main target. The staging business can be your main business or a secondary business to your main one as additional income.

If you want to learn more in-depth information about the exact steps what does it take to start a business, continue reading below.

What can you earn with a virtual staging business as an add-on?

I’ve written this article from the experience of growing a virtual staging company with 19 different virtual home staging services. Below is what I think is the best practice of offering virtual staging as an add-on service besides a real estate company. George Nicola – expert virtual stager

A virtual staging company can be profitable or not depending on the market, the current demand, and the strategy of the company. In total freelance virtual stagers earn on average anywhere from $7 to $750 per project or $7 to $200 per room. An established staging company on the other hand earns $40 to $900 on average per project, $40 to $500 per room, and $100 to $250 for consulting only.

The prices above include both extremes of the market and are based on personal observation, experience, and market research. There are multiple factors that affect the pricing structure and cost ranges of your staging business , including the personal approach of each company or freelancer.

While there are several strategies that skilled real estate professionals constantly use to improve their businesses, home staging is on a whole new level. Statistically, 38 percent of realtors stage homes for sale before listing them in the market.

An exciting idea worth exploring is running a virtual home staging business as an add-on to your primary business. I recommend that you start small with minimal investment of time and money, and you will be surprised how fast your business will grow gradually.

If you haven’t launched your real estate company, check out the video Graham Stephan made some years ago, I love it as it’s simple and very well explained. He has made a course on this as well: click here . Instead, if you’re already into the game of real estate, move on and keep reading after the video.

What is a staging company?

As a whole, a staging company is an entity that deals with the internal or external staging (often called styling) of a property for sale. The traditional staging company can re-style partially the space (called soft-staging) or entirely change the look of the existing interior or exterior.

What is virtual staging company?

Virtual staging company does use the same techniques as the traditional staging companies, but in the 3D virtual world where amendments are cost-effective and often quicker than traditional staging.

What Virtual Stagers Do

Behind any gorgeous, saleable real estate listing is an expert home stager. Since 90 percent of home buyers start their property search online, virtual stagers ensure that the images of properties stand out online. A virtual home stager improves the attractiveness of a home using several graphic design techniques to fix essential aesthetics and personality in a home, consequently increasing the chances of selling it to interested buyers at a competitive price. While realtors mainly focus on setting prices and seeking potential buyers, virtual stagers put extra work behind the scenes to make a home more attractive.

The following are key things that virtual stagers do: 

Work with Professional Photos

First, a virtual stager must work with professionally taken photos of a home to render the high-quality results of empty homes. Second, they work with photographers to plan and produce professional pictures with the best angles to make the digital furniture and decor look real. 

Furnish Homes

To make potential buyers envision themselves living in the space, virtual stagers furnish the home with 3-D furniture and accessories. The digital furnishings help prospective buyers to visualize the ins and outs of the property effortlessly. 

Decorate Homes

Besides furnishing homes with 3-D furniture, virtual stagers may often recommend other decorations in a home, such as pops of color in specific rooms, light fixtures, rugs, art, sculptures, planets, wall decorations, etc. 

Create Virtual Tours

Virtual stagers create virtual tours of newly staged homes by blending a series of short clips, still images, sound effects, music, narration, and text. This helps potential buyers to understand the property before physically visiting it entirely.

Staging Business Plan

Every home staging business starts with a plan, even if it’s secondary to the main company. Realistically success and failure are the difference between having a good staging plan and not having one at all. On average it takes 6 months to a year for a staging business with a plan to get its foot at the market’s door. Below we’ll look at the pros and cons of the staging business which you can also perceive as a business plan.

pros of virtual staging business

Pros of Virtual Staging Business

While this list may not be conclusive, below are common pros to starting a virtual staging business:

Low Start-up Costs

Statistically, operating virutal staging services company is 90 percent cheaper than traditional home staging. You do not need to buy furniture and decorations that cost thousands of dollars to venture start-up virtual staging business. Instead, you can fill an empty room with digital furniture, interior decorations, and accent pieces at a fraction of a cost. Besides essential equipment like a PC, good internet connection, and widely available apps, virtual stagers incur a one-time fee per image/room. 

Independent of Real Estate Market’s Seasonality 

Virtually staging is better than physically staging a home because the latter is usually seasonal due to the volatility of the real estate market. Virtual staging is a year-round business because time is of the essence in today’s real estate market. For instance, a virtual stager can help you get the listing up and running within a few business days when marketing a property. This makes virtual staging a pivotal addition to your portfolio of services. 

No Licensing or Special Training Needed for Virtual Staging Business

For operating with virutal staging services company do not have to go through the tedious process of seeking to license because they predominantly use technology to present a property. They only need legal advice before making the specific home and specific language changes to digitally staged photos. In addition, you can horn your virtual staging skills via step-by-step tutorials provided by various software or on our home staging tutorial videos page.

Ease of Marketing 

Virtual staging is the ideal real estate marketing tool designed to help buyers imagine the practicalities of a home. Depending on the buyer demographic, virtual staging businesses can customize a home and market it successfully through realtors, mortgage brokers, and other networks involved in various real estate markets. Customers will recognize its highest potential more quickly than traditionally staged homes when you virtually stage your home.

Outsourcing virtual staging services

Don’t want the hassle of running your own virtual staging team? Consider outsourcing to turnkey staging providers. Companies like TALLBOX handle the entire staging process – from 3D modeling to final visualizations – so you can simply focus on sales.

Here’s how it works: partner with a virtual staging provider that offers revenue sharing.

Then refer your real estate clients to purchase their virtual home staging services. The provider handles project fulfillment while compensating you with a generous commission, typically 20-40% of each sale, depending on the amount of monthly sales.

This creates a powerful passive income stream without needing to hire in-house stagers, buy equipment, master 3D software or manage a production team.

Best of all, clients get a top-notch staging experience from an established company. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Virtual staging outsourcing eliminates the complexities of running your own staging operations. Consider teaming up with turnkey vendors to earn substantial commissions on every referral while delighting your real estate clients.

Cons of Virtual Staging Business

cons of virtual staging business

Like any business venture, there are a few possible downsides to virtual home staging, such as:

Difficulty in Finding Interested parties at first

While traditional home staging started in the early 1970s, virtual home staging is a modern-day phenomenon of the technological world many homeowners are still coming to terms with. This makes it challenging for virtual stagers to find the right homeowners who clearly understand the need to hire them and the potential financial gain in the end. In addition, getting long-term clients to help you build your portfolio can be daunting. 

Several Revisions from Clients

Unlike traditional virtual staging, which is usually a straightforward one-time task, virtual staging demands detailed adjustments to rooms, decorations, colors, accessories, etc. Be ready to do extra work to meet the expectations of your clients until they are delighted with the virtually staged home. You will need to hire a support team to help you, including skilled real estate photo editors, graphic designers, etc. 

Legal Issues   you might face in Virtual Staging Business

In addition to the disappointment that potential homebuyers may experience at a physical viewing, your start-up virtual staging business can attract other real estate legal issues. The common one is a misrepresentation lawsuit, which negatively affects a buyer’s decision to take up a contract. These include:

  • Fraudulent Misrepresentation – This means intentionally sharing false information about a property or knowingly failing to reveal a known problem, e.g., leaking ceilings.
  • Negligent Misrepresentation – This occurs when you fail to perform your due diligence before providing information about a home, e.g., inaccurate square footage of a room. 
  • Innocent Misrepresentation – This is neither fraudulent nor negligent, e.g., editing out trees and power lines.

Read also: Everything about Virtual Staging Disclaimers

What You Need to Start a Virtual Staging Business

what you need to start virtual home staging business

Generally, to rise to the top of the game as a virtual home stager, you need to have exceptional home staging skills to differentiate your staged properties from the competition. In addition, this calls for top-notch entrepreneurial skills to grow your business, including finding the right clients and charging the right price without engaging in unnecessary price wars with competitors.

So far, you already know that virtual stagers help homeowners and realtors sell homes faster and make a decent profit. While this justifies the lucrativeness of a virtual staging business, you still need to set up a few things before you go full throttle.

Below are some common prerequisites you need to put together before starting a virtual staging business: 

Create a Portfolio Website

Having an online presence allows prospective customers to examine the potential of your business and understand the value you can provide them. Ensure your portfolio website is excellently branded and optimized so that potential clients can find it easily. Include a blog for posting relevant topics that might interest your target customers. Once you gain more traction after the second year, shift the site and gradually move to authority website with gallery and a virtual home staging services section.

Choose a Specific Target Market

While virtual stagers have a global playing field thanks to the internet, I recommend that you focus on a specific target market to maximize your marketing efforts. For instance, you can go for local flippers, apartment building owners, owners of commercial spaces, and so on. 

Start By Staging Older, Traditional Homes for the first year

When launching a new staging business, it can be beneficial to focus first on staging traditional, older homes. These types of homes with classic architecture are very common staging jobs. Starting out, you’ll want to build your portfolio with these bread-and-butter staging projects.

Staging traditional spaces requires knowledge of suitable period-appropriate furnishings and decor. Gain experience outfitting living rooms, dining rooms, studies, and bedrooms with the right classical furniture pieces and accessories. As you build relationships with realtors, traditional homes are a natural starting point to establish your business.

Specialize in New, Modern Construction Homes from the second year

After a full 12 months of operating your staging business, consider expanding into a new, modern construction homes. These often feature open concept floor plans with clean, contemporary finishes. The staging strategy relies on minimalist, modern furniture pieces to complement the architecture. Having the right mix of modern decor and accessories is key.

New real estate developments with lots of similar suburban model homes can provide a steady stream of staging clients. Focus your marketing to realtors listing new homes in these communities. As you build your portfolio of modern stagings, your expertise in this niche will grow.

Years 3-5 become an Expert in Luxury Home Staging

If you managed to stay in the home staging business for more than 36 months it means that it’s time to upgrade your skills and offering.

Luxury home staging is the pinnacle. High-end luxury staging requires access to very expensive, high-quality designer furniture and decor. The expectations and preferences of luxury home buyers are very specific. It will take time to establish relationships with realtors listing multimillion dollar properties.

The timeline to build a portfolio of luxury staging projects will also be longer. But the payoff of becoming an expert luxury home stager is the prestige and expanded business opportunities. Luxury staging is the most profitable niche with the highest project fees in the industry.

Network with Local Realtors  

The fastest and most suitable way to connect with home sellers is to reach their real estate agents. To do so, narrow down on homes that sell quickly in your target market and share your contact info with their realtors so they can refer sellers to you once an opportunity arises.

Develop a Staging Pricing Structure

The pricing strategy is an essential prerequisite in a virtual staging business. Consider the time it would take you to complete each project, the size of the homes, and so on. Here how to calculate the typical online staging price ranges of your virtual staging services:

  • Research competitors’ prices in your area to get an idea of the going market rates. Factor in your experience level.
  • Consider your costs – equipment, software, administrative time etc. Price so you cover expenses and make a profit.
  • Take into account the scope and complexity of the staging project. Basic staging should be cheaper than luxury high-end staging.
  • Charge per photo rather than per project. This lets you price based on the amount of work. $10-$25 per image is common for low-quality staging; $35 – $80 average to good and $90 – $300 for luxury high-end quality staging.
  • For removals and staging, charge per furnished room. $20-$150 per standard room (depending on skills and quality), more for large specialty rooms.
  • Charge hourly for consultations and custom staging design services. $50-$150/hr depending on market rates.
  • Offer package deals like “5 room stage + professional photos” for a discounted rate. Gives pricing options.
  • Raise prices gradually as you build a portfolio and positive reviews. Increase rates for returning clients.
  • Avoid undervaluing services. Price based on the value you provide, not just time spent.
  • Reevaluate pricing quarterly as you gain experience. Increase if you’re getting booked out.

The right pricing for a virtual staging business will cover your costs and time while remaining competitive. Start on the lower end as you build up.

Ideally, the pricing structure will allow you to create quotes for new clients effortlessly. A starting point and a good strategy are to form fees based on photos while you gain more understanding of the service and grow your clientele;

Put together Marketing Materials as Virtual Staging Business

Even with the popularity of virtual staging, some homeowners and home sellers are yet to accept it. Therefore, your marketing materials must be armed with solid pitches to gain the trust and loyalty of both potential and skeptical customers. On your website, include testimonials of your previously staged homes to provide social proof and the value of your services.

The Right Way to Start a Staging Company

how to start virtual staging company

There are 14,798 staging business organizations in USA alone . I bet your interest in a virtual staging business has gone through the roof, by this point. But the biggest question in starting a staging business is, can you start with no money and experience?

Keep reading the below eye-opening guide that will help you launch your virtual staging business successfully. 

What Investment Do Staging Business require?

It is impossible to start a virtual home staging business with no money. Instead, you can acquire skills and create a soft-staging business that doesn’t require owning assets since the staging is done with what the actual client acknowledges.

It is important to note that, unlike traditional home staging businesses, virtual staging businesses have relatively low start-up costs, meaning you can get yours up and running with little out-of-pocket investment.

Costs to start a virtual staging business

Starting a virtual staging business can have varying costs depending on the virtual home staging services offered and location. To launch a virtual staging business can range from around $5,000 on the low end up to $20,000+ for a fully equipped operation, not counting the time that will take you to learn how to manage projects and clients.

Or instead of managing operations, outsource to a reliable staging company like TALLBOX to focus on client development.

Here are some costs to consider:

  • Business formation fees: This includes registering your business name and any licensing. Cost is typically $100-$300.
  • Equipment: A computer and design software are necessities. Budget $1,000-$5,000 for a good setup.
  • Furniture inventory: For to operate virtual staging company you need a decent database for of 3D furniture models which can cost $500-$1,300 for a library of 500 to 2,000 models that includes lighting and decoration, bed sets, living and dining room sets, kitchen decors and furniture, kids rooms and garden furniture.
  • Training: Invest in staging courses or mentoring to learn 3D staging skills, $200-$2,000.
  • Website: Have a website designed specifically for your staging business, around $300-$3,000.
  • Marketing: Budget for google and facebook ads. to promote your new business, $1,000-$5,000.
  • Office space: Working from home is fine at first, but you may eventually want a studio. Costs vary widely.
  • Additional team members: Consider hiring other staging assistants or administrative help as your business grows.

In case you are not in a position to invest you can channel funds from your existing business(es), but applying for a loan is a viable option if it is insufficient. 

I recommend that you develop a solid business plan to refine your cash flow and monitor the needed capital before investing it. Once secured, invest at least 15 to 25 percent of the money in the total start-up costs. 

To Whom You Can Talk about Strategies in the Virtual Staging Business

Networking, and I repeat, networking is the only particular skill that will make your strategies succeed in the virtual staging field. One of the most practical approaches to networking is to reach out to other realtors to learn about the resources to look for and how they engage with other home stagers. 

Try to reach out to other business owners and real estate professionals who have a wealth of networking experience. Moreover, you will need to build a long-lasting rapport with your first customers by providing professional services in a timely and reliable manner to keep them engaged, hooked, and satisfied.  You can also reach us at [email protected]

How not to start your Staging Business

business plan for home staging company

The success rate in start-up staging business is not high. Due to the ease of entry and low costs associated with staging the virtual staging business, many just copy-paste what they see in the competitor’s websites and business models.

Staging your staging business by replicating can be damaging not for you but for the whole industry as well. Since the majority of the market just replicates one another the prices for virtual staging can only go in one direction – down and not to mention that fighting low-cost competitors especially if this is your secondary business it’s a complete waste of time. As I am writing this text, there is a new virtual staging company that offers vacant staging at $7 to $10 per photo. It’s not fully automated but a DIY solution, but still it’s pretty much rock-bottom. Often rock-bottom staging companies start their journey by locking themselves in a narrow gap of the market by undercutting even further. The results are truly disastrous for the low-cost sector = low quality = high volumes = negative or no user experience with almost zero benefits. All this does not mean there is no place for low-cost staging companies, my point with this is to say:

Do not start the staging business without preparing yourself for success.

What is the Most Important Software in Virtual Staging Business? 

Many virtual staging software is available today. However, it is essential to note that last year’s best software may not be the ultimate one this year. While your choice can spell out the difference between closing a sale and losing a valuable customer, you need to select the ones that are worth your time, energy, and investment. On this page, I’ve laid out some tips and tricks into the software and tutorials side of the business: click

software for starting add-on company

For reliability, affordability, and authenticity, I have categorized the software according to their functionalities, i.e., customer relationship management (CRM), time management, photo-taking, photo-editing, 2D floor plans, 3D property models, invoicing, client engagement, cloud file storage, and integration. 

The following are the 10-best software for 2023 and beyond that will allow you to revamp, design, and decorate any home space with ease consistent with your preferred style.

AutoCAD LT is the best 2-D floor plans app for uploading, opening, drafting, and documenting 2D drawings accurately, including layers and external references (Xrefs) of your home. Essentially, this software is the low-cost, 2D version of AutoCAD, its 3D version.  

SketchUp 

SketchUp is an inspiring 3D modeling software that comes with a robust set of features for 3D imaging, 3D printing, animations, document management, data import/export, etc. If you are a complete beginner in virtual staging and need a SketchUp tutorial,  click here  to learn the basics effortlessly. 

Photoshop/Affinity Photo

Photoshop and affinity photo are worthy alternatives for virtual stagers looking for fully-featured image editors. Both have mutually recognizable features, including brushes, adjustments, layers, brushes, etc. While Affinity Photo lacks the depth of Photoshop, its set of features is sufficient for most users. If you cannot justify Photoshop’s recurring monthly fee, Affinity Photo’s one-time fee of $49.99 is your best bet.

Pro CamX 

This app comes with unique features for taking professional photos. You can easily control the focus, ISO, shutter speed, and white balance through your smartphone camera. Other features include burst shooting mode, color effects, interval timer, and real-time filters to adjust images. In addition to phone apps, you will need some more gear; check out another piece of information we’ve written recently:

This popular photo and video editing software not only helps you capture high-quality pictures from its im-built camera but also stores the images with thumbnail previews. The app also keeps essential information, including location, date, filters used, etc. 

The output of a virtual staging business depends on its effectiveness to manage the time spent on various tasks, including marketing, emailing, cold calling, negotiations, social media, design, etc. Timely software tracks time and manages tasks, including the costs involved.

Structurally software uses AI/machine learning chatbot called Aisa Holmes to build relationships with potential clients with customized messages at first contact. Such a personalized client experience keeps website visitors engaged, and you can take charge of the conversation at will.

Google Drive + Dropbox

Both Google Drive and Dropbox backup your virtual staging files in the cloud. Google Drive gives you 15GB of free storage, while Dropbox offers 2GB. To get 2TB of storage with Google Drive, you must subscribe to Google One for $99.99/year. To get 2TB of storage with Dropbox, you will be charged $119.88/year. 

While the obvious choice is Google Drive, Dropbox Paper might change your mind. This desktop app creates and coordinates your virtual staging designs by allowing you to edit, comment, manage tasks, or run meetings on your PC. 

Invocera 

With 30+ payment gateways and custom invoicing options, this invoicing software organizes your finances by recording expenses, providing detailed tax reports, forecasting sales revenue, and attaining higher customer retention. In addition, its 3-layered security keeps your data 100% safe.  

Zapier 

Zapier software acts as a go-between for two apps to automatically execute commands and trigger changes in the other. Zapier is compatible with Gmail, Facebook, Calendar, Dropbox, Microsoft Outlook, etc. 

Additional software

If you are starting your primary real estate business, you will need good management, and that comes with some good software and phone apps; it’s a good idea to check out our other piece of information written with a focus on that, too:  click here .

Finding clients for Virtual Staging Business

  • For to find clients for your virtual staging business the key is positioning yourself as an expert in staging solutions for real estate professionals. Combine digital marketing with boots-on-the-ground networking to gain trust and referrals in the real estate community.
  • Put money aside to market your virtual staging business continually. After all, how do you think potential clients will know your business exists? Whether you choose to ask your family and friends to spread the word, share your business contacts on the neighborhood’s social media page, or post a flyer at your co-working space, self-promotion will pay off in the long run.
  • The excellent news about self-promotion is that marketing your virtual staging business online, especially on social media, is expensive. For example, Instagram Live is effective in luring potential clients to know more about your services. You can invite up to three local realtors as guests to join you in the live session as you discuss pertinent ideas about your business.
  • Another way is to seek collaborations. Reach out to real estate firms and home staging businesses in your target market and ask out one of their realtors for coffee so that you can exchange notes about what you can both bring to the table to benefit your businesses mutually. In the end, you will learn critical insights into finding home sellers looking for virtual stagers.
  • Email marketing can magically help you stay in touch with your past clients and convert potential customers into loyal ones. Use impressive images of previously staged homes to email campaigns and increase the number of email subscribers. Send monthly newsletters about new properties, provide tips, and include links to ‘before’ and ‘after’ virtual tours of your virtually staged homes. Such visual elements will make the message more convincing.

How to Sell to Clients

The most crucial factor to consider when selling to clients is setting the right price per the market rate. Below are some tips on how to settle on the right price: 

  • Research the Market –  Conduct a thorough analysis of the local market to know the prices other virtual stagers offer. Comparing prices of recently sold homes will help you quote the most competitive price that mirrors your objectives and projected profit.
  • Consult Real Estate Agents –  You can use a local agent with admirable experience selling virtually staged homes to help you analyze your local market in detail. The realtor will consider your objectives and motivations before setting a realistic price.

Compare the Cost per Square Foot  – To arrive at the approximate appraised value, you need to compare homes with similar square footage. Keep in mind that price per square foot usually increases with a decrease in size and vice versa. Also, smaller homes have a higher square foot cost and vice versa.

There is an amazing piece of information that covers how to sell with virtual staging as an add-on to photography: click here .

Outsourcing Virtual Staging Business as an Add-on to the Main Business 

Virtual staging resellers.

You can use your virtual staging business as an add-on service in the central business by referring real estate sellers looking to rent or sell unfurnished properties to it or instead sell virtual staging to your colleagues and competitors. It will widen the possibilities of business with them. Outsourcing comes with the following critical virtual staging benefits:  

  • Selling more homes faster – Virtually staged homes sell up to 75% faster without the need to buy furniture or hire interior decorators.
  • Increasing buyer interest – Since 90% of buyers start their home search online, virtually staged listings quickly draw their attention. 
  • Higher selling price – 83% of virtually staged homes sell for the actual or more than the asking price, as the buyer can quickly evaluate the property’s full potential.
  • Access to the latest 3-D rendering technologies – Outsourcing virtual staging services helps home sellers gain access to the latest technology without investing.

How to become Virtual Staging Company Reseller?

Here are the key steps to become a virtual staging reseller:

  • Research providers. Thoroughly vet potential virtual staging partners on factors like quality of work, turnaround times, customer service, pricing models, etc. Get references from past reseller clients if possible. Shortlist 2-3 promising picks.
  • Contact and interview partners. Have detailed conversations to align on roles, workflows, expectations, commissions, Contract terms, etc. Get all questions answered before signing anything.
  • Formalize the relationship. Sign a reseller agreement laying out commissioned referral rates, payment processes, marketing guidelines, service commitments,etc. Understand the relationship, requirements and incentives clearly upfront.
  • Announce services to clients. Let your real estate clients know you now offer virtual staging services through a strategic partnership. Promote it as an add-on value differentiator.
  • Provide concierge support. Guide clients through the virtual staging process with the partner serving as the behind-the-scenes production team. Be the single point of contact and liaison.
  • Review metrics and quality. Track customer satisfaction, sales outcomes, staging quality over time. Provide feedback to your provider partner to continue refining the program.
  • Renegotiate as needed. Assess if commissioned rates, service levels etc ever need adjustment and discuss openly with your partner provider.

The keys are finding the right virtual staging company to align with, formalizing the reseller partnership fully, marketing services strategically to real estate clients, and maintaining quality oversight. This allows you to profit on referrals without the staging production burden. Let me know if you need any other reseller program best practices!

What do you need to know about Virtual staging resellers

There are two sides of the coin with the resellers of virtual staging. Always make sure you’re dealing with the actual makers of the virtual staging and not a 3rd party that re-sells too. This not only will increase the prices, but it will prevent you from having direct control over the input and, most important – turnaround times.

Most virtual staging resellers tend to “squeeze” the staging companies for profits and being pressed by their clients; they push even further. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but surely it will not be in your favor. Race to the bottom. Due to the global events in 2020, many start-up staging businesses appeared online, trying to enter the market and re-sell virtual staging at lower and lower prices. This is not necessarily a bad thing if you are in the lowest end of the market, but that’s about it. My best advice is to do thorough research before embarking on a staging re-seller journey. The good thing is if you manage to find a decent reseller, you’ll enjoy an almost “hands-free” outsourcing model that brings even profits. Let’s look at the positive and negative sides of working with virtual staging resellers.

Positives of the virtual staging resellers

  • One point contact. Well structured staging providers must have dedicated managers, well spoken customer oriented person which is always there to answer questions and help. This removes the hassle from your shoulders to mess around with multiple points of contacts.
  • Point and shoot. Staging resellers with good structures and experience must have a proven workflow in place which works like a charm e.g you send instructions and photos, they execute and return staged photos.
  • Pricing model. Another positive side of this method. You will be able to predict in advance what your profits will be for every project you send their way.

Potential Negatives of the virtual staging resellers

  • It takes time to find good staging reseller, especially in the todays market where 3D furniture accessible. Our reserach shows that 90% of the virtual staging resellers – just re-sell and they are not the actual makers of the stagings.
  • Quality . Often the practice is to find a cheap staging company and re-sell their stagings. This method only increases the prices, but not the quality of the product.
  • Limits . 97% of staging resellers can offer virtual staging via catalogs, you select – they execute. The end result often is “champaingne dinner on a beer budget”. As virtual staging company we know works and what not. In the past 12 months we allocated plenty of time for reserach. Only 3% from all virtual staging companies offer bespoke staging with high-quality designs that really works.

Closing Thoughts

With the tips mentioned above and tricks on how to start a virtual staging business, just put in the work, and you will be flying high even before you know it. If you need expert guidance and advice, drop us an email or call us, and I will be happy to help. 

FAQ on Virtual Staging Business (As a Second Business)?

A virtual home stager improves the attractiveness of a home using several graphic design techniques to fix essential aesthetics and personality in a home, consequently increasing the chances of selling it to interested buyers at a competitive price.

Pros: – Low start-up costs – Independent of real estate seasonality – No licensing is needed to run the business – Ease of marketing Cons: – Difficulty in finding clients – Several Revisions from Clients (Bottlenecks) – Legal Issues (Fraudulent Misrepresentation)

To start a virtual staging business, you need: – website – a target market (start local at first) – network with realtors – pricing structure – marketing materials – a team of virtual stagers

I recommend that you develop a solid business plan to refine your cash flow and monitor the needed capital before investing it. Try to reach out to other business owners and real estate professionals who have a wealth of networking experience. It is essential to select the most appropriate software for staging that will match your target market and pricing.

Conduct a thorough analysis of the local market to know the prices other virtual stagers offer. Use a local agent with admirable experience selling virtually staged homes to help you analyze your local market in detail. Keep in mind that price per square foot usually increases with a decrease in size and vice versa. Offer your service at first as a Bonus add-on to your main package. Gain trust with your new service and slowly build your client base.

You can use your start-up virtual staging business as an add-on service in the central business by referring real estate sellers looking to rent or sell unfurnished properties to it or instead establish a relationship with an already established virtual staging company.

At first, probably less than $500 a month; After you establish the practice, grow your clients and pricing structure, you can generate between $1,000 and $5,000 in the worst-case scenario per month.

The best place is to look at google. Find few companies, contact them and ask for information. Compare the information: – Pricing structure – Turnaround time – Quality of the stagings – Customer service After your analyses, think of where in the market is your real estate business. If you are in the average sector, selecting the cheapest staging provider might be a mistake. If you are at the low end of the market, it might be a mistake to select the most expensive staging company. Balance is the key!

Depending on what you have chosen as a strategy costs might vary from a few thousand dollars up to $20 – $25,000 to set up a workstation, hire a stager, and purchase models. If you have chosen to go down the outsourcing path, probably your start-up costs will be in the range of $500 – $1,000 for marketing purposes.

Profitability depends on your sector and focus. If your focus is quality but not quantity and depending on the capability of your team you can expect anywhere between $300 to $1,500 per project. If your path is quantity rather than quality, achieving $50-$100 profit from a project is considered a great success.

Staging companies driven by a single person tend to make monthly between $1,200 up to $2-$3000 assuming they have a good customer database and setup workflow.

Below are key factors that affect home staging business startup costs. Key Costs to Consider Training and certification – $1,000-$3,000 for courses on home staging best practices. Inventory and furnishings – $5,000-$20,000+ to purchase furniture, accessories, and decor to use in staging jobs. More inventory needed as business grows. Warehouse/storage space – Monthly or annual costs for a facility to store inventory, vehicles, and equipment. Transportation – Moving truck, van, or trailer to transport inventory to staging jobs. Can also hire third-party movers. Employees – Salaries, insurance, payroll taxes, etc. if hiring assistants, movers, sales reps or other staff. Marketing – Website, printed materials like brochures, paid advertising, photography of staged homes for portfolio. Legal and professional fees – Lawyer fees, accountant fees, business licensing, taxes, insurance. Software and technology – For project management, accounting, client communication, etc. Ongoing inventory purchases – Need to continually buy new furniture and decor as trends change. Estimated Total Costs Bare bones startup : $10,000 – $30,000 Well-equipped startup : $30,000 – $60,000+ Operating costs first year : $20,000 – $100,000+ In comparison, the operating costs for the first year of virtual staging business are in the range of ~$5,000 to $20,000. Key factors impacting costs include business model, inventory needs, employees, warehouse requirements, and more. Creating a detailed business plan helps estimate costs. Maximizing Value Focus spending on quality inventory and excellent training to provide top-notch service. Build up inventory and offerings gradually in early stages. Outsource to fill gaps. Take advantage of digital tools to minimize overhead where possible. Join home staging associations for support, advice, and cost-saving vendor partnerships. With careful planning and controlled growth, home staging businesses can launch successfully even on limited budgets.

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Start a Home Staging Business

Unleashing Your Inner Decorator: The Promising World of Home Staging

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STAGING BUSINESS

Related business ideas, discover your perfect domain, staging mini business plan, expected percent margin:, earnings expectations:, actions to hit those numbers:, prop inventory:, marketing and customer acquisition:, sales and customer experience:, cost control:, business operations:, not what you had in mind here are more ideas, grab your business website name, step 1: determine if home staging business is right for you, breakdown of startup expenses, breakdown of ongoing expenses, examples of ways to make money, step 2: name your home staging business, register your business, choose a logo, step 3: develop a business plan, outline your goals, create a financial plan, research your target market, step 4: obtain licenses and permits, research local requirements, obtain necessary licenses and permits, step 5: find a location, considerations for choosing a location, research local zoning requirements, step 6: purchase equipment and supplies, list of necessary equipment and supplies, tips for purchasing equipment and supplies, step 7: market your business, step 8: hire employees, considerations for hiring employees, tips for finding qualified employees, step 9: track your progress, explore more categories, take the next steps.

ProfitableVenture

Home Staging Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans » Real Estate Sector

Are you about starting a home staging business? If YES, here is a complete sample home staging business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

One of the best businesses that revolve around the real estate that you may want to consider starting is the home staging business. This is one very lucrative business that have continued to churn out millionaires on a daily basis.

One of the things that you need to understand is that this type of business just like others will need that you carry out a thorough research. This is important so that you can learn all the ropes that is required.

A Sample Home Staging Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The real estate industry of which home staging business is sup set of is indeed one of the many industries that is a major contributor to the growth of the economy of many nations of the world; there is hardly any country where the real estate industry is not pretty active.

As a matter of fact, a home staging agent can actually become a millionaire ‘overnight’ from selling or leasing few homes that are properly staged. These are the main reasons why the real estate industry is responsible for making many instant millionaires in the united states of America, as well as the rest of the world.

Home staging is all about preparing and decorating a home or private residence so that it will look pretty good and appealing to potential buyers especially those who are not interested in renovating a property with their money after purchase.

The truth is that there are people who are willing to pay and pack in without any hassles or delay and they are willing to pay premium fees. Technically, home staging guarantees you to sell your property faster and of course to also make huge profits.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (united states of America) projects 11.1 percent job growth for real estate industry between 2012 and 2022, which is about as fast as average. During that time, an additional 38,000 jobs will open up in the industry. Hence any home staging agent that is well equipped and positioned will sure rakes in huge revenues from this industry within this period and of course the future is bright.

Statistics has it that home staging agents in the United States of America home staged and sold about 156,862 single-family homes in 2013 alone. It is on record that the number of home that was staged was up 16 percent from 2012 and 114 percent from 2011.

Generally, the average gross profit for a completed home staged deal or more accurately, the difference between the first sales price and the second sales price is about $58,081.

The real estate industry is highly regulated in the United States of America and anyone who aspires to become a home staging agent or start a real estate agency (company) must apply and obtain a license before they can legally operate in the industry.

But as a lawyer, you can handle real estate deals in some states in the US and make your commission without operating as a licensed real estate agent. In order to obtain a license as a real estate agent in the US, you are required to write and pass your state’s real estate exams.

The practice in the United States of America is that, a home staging agent or real estate licensed agent is required to disclose to prospective buyers and sellers the nature of their relationship within the transaction and with the parties involved in the deal.

Just like all other investment vehicle, there are potential down sides that you need to look out for as a home staging agent. One of the major risks in home staging business is a sudden down turn in the economy. Selling properties could take a period of two to three years from conception to completion depending on the size of the project and the cash flow.

As a matter of fact, some home staging projects could even take much longer than that. Because of the time frame involved in renovating and decorating a property from start to finish, loads of un – anticipated things could crop up and it fall in the thick of property cum economy downturn which is not good for the business considering the investment that has gone into the project.

Another factor that is of major concerns and a threat to home staging business generally could be cost increase as a result of inflation, currency devaluation and economic challenges.

Unforeseen delays from the part of government agencies, litigation and also delays from contractors could lead to substantial cost increase especially if the project is heavily dependent on bank loans. If perhaps during this period there is a change in the supply and demand dynamics of the property sector the project could be affected negatively.

Lastly, as a home staging agent, it is very important to be creative, to be able to use your ideas to meet the rapidly changing needs of the society when it comes to properties; you should be able to convert a slum into a beautiful city if indeed you want to become a major player in the house staging cum real estate industry.

2. Executive Summary

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company is a property development company that will major in home staging and property selling. Our head office will be located in a standard and centrally located office facility in the heart of Annapolis – Maryland.

Our aim of starting this home staging business is to work in conjunction with the government of the United States of America to deliver affordable homes and properties to all class of people in the United States of America.

Although our Head Office will be located in Annapolis – Maryland, but we will open our branch offices in major cities in all regions of the United States of America – within the first two years of operation we would have set up our offices in the following locations; New York City, Los Angeles, Florida, North Dakota, Boston, Dallas and Washington.

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company is going to be a self-administered and a self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT). We will work towards becoming one of the largest home staging companies in the United States of America with active presence in major cities.

We are quite aware that home staging business requires huge capital base, which is why we have perfect plans for steady flow of cash from private investors who are interested in working with us. We can confidently say that we have a robust financial standing and we are ready to take on any opportunity that comes our way in the real estate industry.

As part of our plans to make our customers our number one priority and to become one of the leading home staging company in the United States of America, we have perfected plans to secure highly sellable properties that can favorable compete with the best in the industry at affordable and reasonable price that will guarantee that we make good profit.

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company have overtime perfected plans that will help us to become a specialist in turning slums into beautiful cities and turning a run –down and dilapidated building into a master piece and that hopefully will be our brand and signature.

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company will at all time demonstrate her commitment to sustainability, both individually and as a firm, by actively participating in our communities and integrating sustainable business practices wherever possible.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for our partners, employees and for our clients.

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company will be owned majorly by Robin Gerald and his immediate family members. Robin Gerald is a property guru that has worked with top Real Estate Companies in the United States of America for many years prior to starting his own business.

Other investors with same investment ideology whose name cannot be mentioned here for obvious reasons are going to be part of the business especially as it relates to pooling cash together for property acquisitions, renovations and beautification.

3. Our Products and Services

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company is set to run a standard and thriving home staging business within the scope of the real estate industry in the United States of America. Our intention of starting a home staging business is to make profits from the industry and we will do all that is permitted by the law in the US to achieve our aim and ambition.

Our business offering are listed below;

  • Exchanging property / Home staging (Our Core Business Offering)
  • Facilitating a Purchase — guiding a buyer through the process.
  • Property Management
  • Auctioning property
  • Preparing contracts and leases.
  • Lists the property for sale to the public
  • Provides the seller with a real property condition disclosure (if required by law) and other necessary forms.
  • Holds an open house to show the property
  • Ensures that buyers are pre-screened and financially qualified to buy the property
  • Selling of Fully Furnished Properties
  • Selling of Landed Properties
  • Real Estate Consultancy and Advisory Services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

  • Our vision is to become one of the top 10 home staging companies in the United States of America within the first 10 years of starting Jackie Brown Home Staging Company.
  • Our mission and values are to help people, businesses and property owners and clients in the United States of America and throughout the world realize their dreams of owning well – constructed and renovated properties, or renting properties in the United States of America.

Our Business Structure

Our company’s structure is not entirely different from what is obtainable in the real estate industry, as a matter of priority, we have decided to create a structure that will allow for easy growth for all our employees and also we have created platforms that will enable us attract some of the best hands in the industry.

We are quite aware that the success of any business lies in the foundation on which the business is built on, which is why we have decided to build our home staging company on the right business foundation.

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company is fully aware of the modus operandi in the real estate industry cum home staging line of business, hence adequate provision and competitive packages has been prepared for independent sales agents.

Our marketing department will be responsible for managing this aspect of our business structure. Below is the business structure we will build Jackie Brown Home Staging Company on;

  • Chief Executive Officer

Project Manager

  • Company’s Lawyer / Secretary

Admin and HR Manager

  • Head of Construction and Renovation
  • Head of Assets Management
  • Head of Acquisition and Disposition
  • Business Developer / Sales and Marketing
  • Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO (President):

  • Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
  • Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
  • Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
  • Responsible for providing direction for the business
  • Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
  • Evaluates the success of the organization
  • Reports to the board
  • Responsible for the planning, management and coordinating all projects on behalf of the company
  • Supervise projects
  • Ensure compliance during project executions
  • Providing advice on the management of projects
  • Responsible for carrying out risk assessment
  • Uses IT systems and software to keep track of people and progress of ongoing projects
  • Responsible for overseeing the accounting, costing and billing of every project
  • Represent the organization’s interest at various stakeholders meetings
  • Ensures that project desired result is achieved, the most efficient resources are utilized and different interests involved are satisfied.

Company’s Lawyer / Secretary / Legal Counsel

  • Responsible for drawing up contracts and other legal documents for the company
  • Consults and handles all corporate legal processes (e.g. intellectual property, mergers & acquisitions, financial / securities offerings, compliance issues, transactions, agreements, lawsuits and patents et al)
  • Develops company policy and position on legal issues
  • Researches, anticipates and guard company against legal risks
  • Represents company in legal proceedings (administrative boards, court trials et al)
  • Plays a part in business deals negotiation and take minutes of meetings
  • Responsible for analyzing legal documents on behalf of the company
  • Prepares annual reports for the company
  • Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
  • Designs job descriptions with KPI to drive performance management for clients
  • Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
  • Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
  • Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
  • Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
  • Carries out staff induction for new team members
  • Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
  • Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
  • Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
  • Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Head, Acquisitions and Dispositions

  • Manages overall acquisitions and dispositions
  • Identifies and analyzes acquisition opportunities; negotiates acquisitions.
  • Responsible for identifying opportunities to acquire properties, possibly within a designated geographic region.
  • Assists in the sourcing and acquisition of property for development; conducts market research; contacts brokers and owners about property acquisition opportunities; assists in negotiations with sellers and other parties.
  • Identifies and analyzes disposition opportunities; negotiates dispositions.
  • Responsible for identifying opportunities to dispose of properties, possibly within a designated geographic region.
  • Assists in the disposition of property; conducts market research to determine the value of properties; contacts brokers and potential buyers; assists in structuring sales transactions and negotiations with buyers.

Head of Asset Management

  • Oversees the company’s portfolio of real estate assets (which are owned and managed) through acquisitions, dispositions, and day‐to‐day operations, including management of revenue and expense items; works to maximize the portfolio’s performance.
  • Provides strategic oversight of existing and potential real estate assets within a designated geographic area.
  • Manages business plans and budgets for properties.
  • Reviews the condition and maintenance of assigned properties; manages their bookkeeping and cash flow accounting; handles rent reconciliation; prepares property financial reports and annual budget forecasts.

Head of Renovations / Construction

  • Establishes and enforces company’s engineering and construction standards
  • Ensures that construction work meets or exceeds standards within a designated geographic area.
  • Enforces and construction standards; ensures that construction work meets or exceeds standards within cost estimates; monitors quality of work in progress; supervises regional construction heads.
  • Ensures that construction work in a particular product line, such as office buildings, meets or exceeds standards within cost estimates; provides technical input on the feasibility of proposed projects; monitors quality of construction work
  • Provides overall direction on assigned construction projects; reviews and makes recommendations on planning and design of projects; negotiates contracts or participates in contract negotiations; monitors day‐to‐day progress and activities on project construction sites.

Business Developer

  • Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
  • Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
  • Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s need s, and communicate with clients
  • Finds and qualifies land for development based on company’s land requirements; maintains a land search database; initiates discussions with property owners about the possible sale of property
  • Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
  • Documents all customer contact and information
  • Represents the company in strategic meetings
  • Helps to increase sales and growth for the company

Sales and Marketing Officer

  • Markets space; finds tenants; participates in lease negotiations.
  • Provides potential buyers with a real property condition disclosure (if required by law) and other necessary forms.
  • Prepares necessary papers describing the property for advertising, pamphlets, open houses, etc.
  • Holds an open house to show the property.
  • Serves as a contact available to answer any questions about the property and schedule showing appointments.
  • Ensures that buyers are pre-screened and financially qualified to buy the property. (Sellers should be aware that the underwriter for any real estate mortgage loan is the final say.)
  • Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
  • Provides managers with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
  • Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
  • Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
  • Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
  • Responsible for administering payrolls
  • Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
  • Handles all financial transactions for the company
  • Serves as internal auditor for the company

Front Desk / Customer’s Service Officer

  • Receives Visitors / clients on behalf of the organization
  • Receives parcels / documents for the company
  • Handles enquiries via e-mail and phone calls for the organization
  • Distribute a mails in the organization
  • Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
  • Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
  • Manages administrative duties assigned by the line manager in an effective and timely manner
  • Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the company’s properties that are put – up for sale, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

The fact that home staging business is a very rewarding business does not mean that there are no challenges in the industry. Starting a home staging business in the United States of America comes with its own challenges, you would have to abide by the law and also compete with loads of other entrepreneurs in the real estate business value chain who also are interested in making a living and building a business in the US.

In order to compete favorably in the real estate industry as a home staging company we have been able to hire the services of tested and trusted business and HR consultants to help us conduct critical SWOT analysis for us. We intend maximizing our strengths, explore all opportunities we will come across, properly manage our weakness and confront our threats.

Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Jackie Brown Home Staging Company;

Some of our strength that we will be bringing to the table in the real estate industry is our robust relations with properties investment moguls in the whole of the United States of America. Our access to funding and also we have a team of experts who have cut their teeth in the real estate industry cum home staging line of business.

Our commission structure and relationship with freelance real estate agents in Annapolis – Maryland and other state in the US will also count towards our advantage.

As a newbie in the home staging line of business cum real estate industry, we might have some challenges competing with big time property developers and other home staging companies that have been in the industry for many years; that perhaps is part of our weakness.

  • Opportunities:

The opportunities in the real estate industry especially as a home staging company is massive and we are well – positioned and ready to take advantage of any opportunity that comes our way.

Some of the threats that we are likely going to face as a home staging company are unfavorable government policies, and global economic downturn; global economic downturn usually affect spending power and the real estate industry is known to encounter decline in sales and profits during this period. There is hardly anything we could do as regards these threats other than to be optimistic that things will continue to work for our good.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

  • Market Trends

The market trend in the real estate industry or within home staging companies is that, there are no fixed profits projections when engaging in a home staging deal. The profit you stand to gain as a home staging agent depends on loads of factors amongst which are your attention to details, ability to turn a slum or a ransack facility into an edifice and knowing exactly when to buy over property, the kind of renovations and decoration to be done on the property and the right time to sell the property.

If you are able to get all the above stated factors right as a home staging company, your gains will always be far more than your loss.

Another obvious trend that is common with home staging companies in the United States of America is that most of them are improvising on more means of making money in the real estate industry and as matter of fact they are also acting as property developers amongst many other functions that they are involved in.

Lastly, one thing is certain for every home staging company; if they are hardworking, creative and proactive, they will always generate enough income to meet all their overhead and operational cost, keep their business going without struggle and make reasonable profits from all business deals that they are involved in.

8. Our Target Market

As a home staging company, our target market cuts across people of different class and people from all walks of life. We are coming into the real estate industry with a business concept that will enable us work with the highly placed people in the country and at the same with the lowly placed people who are only interested in putting a roof under their head at an affordable price.

As a matter of fact, our target market is the whole of the United States of America and we have put plans in place to recruit freelance agents (brokers) nationally to represent our business interest wherever they are located in the United States of America.

Below is a list of the people and organizations that we have specifically design our products and services for;

  • Families who are interested in acquiring a decent and well renovated home
  • Corporate organizations who are interested in acquiring their own property / properties
  • Home Owners who are interested in selling off their home
  • Properties Owners who are interested in selling off their properties
  • Foreign investors who are interested in owning properties in the United States of America
  • The government of the United States of America (Government contracts)
  • Managers of public facilities

Our Competitive Advantage

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company might be a new entrant into the real estate industry in the United States of America, but the management staffs and board members are considered gurus. They are people who are core professionals and licensed investors in the United States property market. These are part of what will count as a competitive advantage for us.

Another competitive advantage that we are bringing to the industry is the commission model (our commission structure). We know that freelance (licensed) brokers would work for the highest bidder which is why we designed a commission structure that will be a win – win for all parties involved in any deal undertaken by us.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (start – up home staging companies) in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

  • Sources of Income

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the real estate industry via acquiring houses / properties, renovating them and them selling off the houses. Although we a home staging company, but part of our work force is also licensed real estate agents hence we intend generating additional income from diverse means in the real estate agency.

We have successfully built a vibrant real estate network that covers the whole of the United States of America so as to help us build a profitable business. Below are the sources we intend exploring to generate income for Jackie Brown Home Staging Company;

10. Sales Forecast

It is a known fact that as long as there are people living in the United States of America, there will always be need to acquire properties or move into new homes et al. Businesses need facilities to operate from and families and individuals need shelters hence the demand for the services of home staging companies to help them solve these needs.

We are well positioned to take on the challenges that are synonymous to home staging businesses in the United States, and we are quite optimistic that we will meet out set target of generating enough income / profits from the first month or operations and grow the business beyond Maryland to other states in the United States of America within record time.

We have been able to critically examine the real estate market cum house staging line of business and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions peculiar to similar start – ups in Maryland;

Below is the sales projection for Jackie Brown Home Staging Company. It is based on the location of our business and the properties and services that we will be offering;

  • First Fiscal Year-: $1,000,000
  • Second Fiscal Year-: $3,000,000
  • Third Fiscal Year-: $7,000,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and any major competitor offering same additional services as we do within the locations where we have a strong business presence. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher since some factors are beyond our control.

  • Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We quite mindful of the fact that there is stiffer competition in the home staging cum real estate market in the United States of America; hence we have been able to hire some of the best business developer to handle our sales and marketing.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall goal of the organization. The training is not restricted to only our full – time employees but also all our freelance brokers that are scattered all over the United States of America.

Our goal is to become one of the leading home staging companies in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategies that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force in the industry.

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies;

  • Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to stake holders in the real estate industry and also property owners and potential clients through the United States of America
  • Promptness in bidding for homes / properties that are put up for sale
  • Advertise our business in real estate / properties magazines and websites
  • List our business on yellow pages (local directories)
  • Attend real estate related expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
  • Create different packages for different category of clients in order to successfully sell our homes / properties to them
  • Leverage on the internet (social media platforms)  and our official website to promote our business
  • Places highly visible “For Sale” sign on any property that we put up for sale
  • Encourage word of mouth marketing especially when we have a home for sale.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market. We are set to take the real estate industry by storm which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our company.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise our home staging business;

  • Place adverts on both print and electronic media platforms
  • Place our flexi banners with our company’s logo and contacts in every property we put up for sale
  • Sponsor relevant TV shows so as to be able to communicate our brand and what we do
  • Maximize our company’s website to promote our business
  • Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook ,Twitter, LinkedIn,  Badoo, Google+  and other platforms (real estate online forums) to promote our business and list our properties for sale and for lease.
  • Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations
  • Distribute our fliers and handbills in targeted areas from time to time
  • Attend landlord and residence association meetings with the aim of networking and introducing our business.
  • Ensure that all our workers wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles and ambulances are well branded with our company’s logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Part of business strategy is to ensure that we work within the budget of our potential clients to sell excellent properties / homes to them. It is the practice in most parts of the world for properties to be valued by professionals based on the area the facility is located, the type of facility and other factors.

Since we are not directly in control of the pricing system in the real estate industry we can only abide by what is obtainable when it comes to pricing structure. But one thing is certain, we will ensure that our houses are topnotch, with standard facilities and they stand out in every environment where they are located.

  • Payment Options

At Jackie Brown Home Staging Company our payment policy is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will not accept payment by cash because of the volume of cash that will be involved in most of our transactions. Real estate deals usually involves huge amount of money.

Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

  • Payment by via bank transfer
  • Payment via online bank transfer
  • Payment via check
  • Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans without any itches and we will also pay our freelance sales agents (real estate brokers) with same platforms. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our services.

Any agent who intend paying with cash will be directed to deposit the money into our corporate account and then present their payment tellers to us.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

Starting a home staging business is indeed capital intensive, hence an entrepreneur would have to pool cash together or welcome investors to partner with. Although the capital needed to set up an office structure for such business might not be expensive, but the running capital of the business is always the real deal.

You would need huge capital base to be able to acquire houses / properties, renovate and decorate them, before putting them up for sale. Here are the areas we intend spending our start – up capital;

  • The Total Fee for incorporating the Business in The United States of America – $750.
  • The budget for permits and license – $2,000
  • Cost for hiring Consultant – $2,500.
  • Cost for Computer Software (Accounting Software, Payroll Software, CRM Software, Microsoft Office, QuickBooks Pro, drug interaction software, Physician Desk Reference software) – $7,000
  • The budget for insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $5,400.
  • Cost for payment of rent for a suitable Office facility with enough space in Annapolis – Maryland for 12 month at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of – $105,600.
  • Cost for office remodeling (construction of racks and shelves) – $20,000.
  • The Cost for equipping the office (computers, printers, fax machines, furniture, telephones, filing cabins, safety gadgets and electronics et al) – $15,000
  • Other start-up expenses including stationery ( $500 ) and phone and utility deposits ( $2,500 ).
  • Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $100,000
  • The Cost of Launching our official Website – $600
  • Operation / business running capital – $1,000,000
  • Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $5,000

Going by the report from our research and feasibility studies, we will need about $1.5M (One Million One Five Hundred Thousand USD) to set up a home staging company in Annapolis, US.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Joyous Homes® House Flippers, LLC

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company is a business that will be owned and managed by Jackie Brown, his immediate family members and other business partners. They are the sole financial of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital for the business to just three major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

  • Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
  • Generate part of the start – up capital from friends and other extended family members
  • Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $500,000 (Personal savings $400,000 and soft loan from family members $100,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $1 million from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Jackie Brown Home Staging Company is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running. We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to sell our homes a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Jackie Brown Home Staging Company will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

  • Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
  • Business Incorporation: Completed
  • Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
  • Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
  • Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
  • Application for business license and permit: Completed
  • Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
  • Renting of Office Facility in Annapolis – Maryland: Completed
  • Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
  • Generating capital from the CEO / President and Business Partners: Completed
  • Applications for Loan from our Bankers: In Progress
  • Writing of Business Plan: Completed
  • Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
  • Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
  • Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
  • Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
  • Recruitment of employees: In Progress
  • Purchase of the Needed furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
  • Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
  • Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
  • Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
  • Establishing business relationship with key players in the industry (networking and membership of relevant real estate bodies): In Progress

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How to start a small business at home in 2024

Blair Travers

Sierra Campbell

Sierra Campbell

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Published 8:07 a.m. UTC Feb. 16, 2024

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Featured Image

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Starting a small business at home can help you turn your passions, skills or ideas into financial prosperity. There are some unique perks and challenges to consider when deciding to start a home-based business. 

You’ll also want to have a solid plan and follow some key steps to get your business off on the right foot. It’s helpful to know where you can find ideas, answers to your questions and other resources you need to run an at-home business successfully.

Should you start a business at home?

There are many factors to consider when deciding to start a small business at home. On the one hand, it’s important to make sure there is demand for your business. On the other hand, you want to be able to handle the amount of business you receive. Gauging things like demand, profit margins and the ability to scale your business early on can help you avoid trouble down the road.

Across the country, at-home businesses make up a large portion of small businesses. C.E. “Tee” Rowe is the president and CEO of America’s Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), which provides free or low-cost support for small businesses in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration. “Here at America’s SBDC, we have seen an uptick in home-based businesses that started during the pandemic but continues to date,” said Rowe. 

Pros of a home business

Here are some key benefits to starting a business at home:

  • Increased flexibility: Set your own hours, freeing you up for other commitments as needed.
  • Less commuting: Save time and money by skipping the drive to work.
  • Comfortable work environment: Design your workspace how you want it. After all, it is your home.
  • Money-saving perks: Pay lower startup costs compared to larger businesses by avoiding costs like renting retail or office space. Take advantage of tax breaks for at-home businesses.
  • Reduce risk: Protect yourself by limiting your liability and avoiding the cost and risk of maintaining commercial space.
  • Rewards for your hard work: Work hard for your business, and your business reaps the benefits instead of some other employer.

Cons of a home business

These are some of the disadvantages of starting a business at home:

  • Limited space: You give up part of your home, and even then, you may still need more space for your business.
  • Distracting work environment: Crying babies, barking dogs and loud neighbors can all be distracting when running a business at home.
  • Professional boundaries: Some people may feel awkward about meeting to discuss business at your home or a public location.
  • Increased mental health risks: Running a home business can feel isolating for some. A lack of social interaction, time outside, work-life balance or effective time management can also threaten mental health.
  • Growth restrictive: If your home-based business scales too rapidly, you may outgrow your workspace quickly. In this situation, success creates a problem for home businesses to solve.
  • Increased costs: Whether you’re paying new employee salaries or wages or forking over more money for higher utility bills, you may feel the financial squeeze.

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7 steps to start a home business

After considering the pros and cons, does the idea of taking the reins and starting a home business appeal to you? You’re not alone. 

“When we work with individuals seeking to start a home-based business, it is frequently based on a desire to control their own circumstance and success, which are great reasons, but it always needs to be thought out carefully,” Rowe explained.

Planning is key. From creating a business plan and determining your business structure to securing funding and setting your marketing strategy, there’s a lot to think through. Follow the steps below to get on the right track to starting a small business at home.

1. Find your niche

Plenty of successful at-home businesses arise from emotion: a passion to do what you love, a frustration with the status quo or excitement to seize on a timely opportunity.

If you’re struggling to find your niche, ask yourself:

  • What do you love to do that others may find challenging?
  • What is a need that no business currently has the right solution for?
  • What are you good at? What do people ask for your help with?
  • What high-demand skills or services do you have to offer?

2. Draft a business plan

Having a business plan is essential for running your business effectively. As Rowe pointed out, “Every business needs a solid, comprehensive plan to guide them to success. That plan needs to focus on skills, finance, revenue and marketing.”

A business plan outlines the direction of the business — its goals, strategies, structure, ways of measuring success and plans for dealing with things like change and risk. Simply put, it’s the roadmap to success for your business.

When creating your business plan, include key sections such as an executive summary, a business description, market analysis and financial projections. For more on what to cover, check out this step-by-step guide to drafting a business plan .

3. Select a business structure

According to the IRS, the most common business structures are sole proprietorships, partnerships , corporations and limited liability companies (LLC) . Each business structure comes with its own set of operational, legal, financial and tax considerations. 

A sole proprietorship is a business owned and operated by a single individual, while a partnership is jointly owned by two or more individuals who share responsibilities. 

In contrast, corporations — like C corporations and S corporations — are independent legal entities. C corporations limit shareholder liability but are highly complex. S corporations feature pass-through taxation, distributing income (and losses) to shareholders.

While sole proprietorship is a common structure for just starting out, LLC is another popular option for at-home businesses. It combines elements of a corporation and a partnership, offering limited liability to its members and the flexibility of pass-through taxation. Members of an LLC can choose to be taxed as a sole proprietorship, partnership, C corporation or S corporation.

4. Register your business and get an EIN

After you choose a business structure, you’ll need to register your business with state and federal governments. Select a business name , pay fees and provide required documents, which vary by state.

After getting registered with your state, you can then apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive this unique nine-digit number that is essential for all sorts of business purposes, from filing your taxes to hiring employees. 

Not all businesses need an EIN, such as sole proprietors and single-member LLCs with no employees.

5. Get any required licenses and permits

Depending on your industry and federal, state and local requirements, you may also need to obtain licenses and permits for your business. 

Here are some examples of licenses and permits you may need, depending on your business:

  • Occupational, professional or trade licenses.
  • Online business permits.
  • Sales tax permits.
  • Health department permits.
  • Safety permits.
  • Home-based child care licenses.
  • Zoning, signage, environmental and other permits to operate an at-home business, as required by local government, HOA or deed restrictions.

6. Obtain funding for your business

Many owners fund their businesses using their own savings. Self-funding is a viable choice if you can get up and running without much money, can come up with the needed funding from your own accounts or can ask for help from family or friends. 

You can also apply for a business loan . Banks will likely want to see a rock-solid business plan, strong financial projections, good personal and/or business credit history and any collateral you’ll use for your loan. If you are a good candidate for lending, make sure that shows in your application so that you can get the best funding and terms for your business.

If you don’t have much personal or business credit history, it may be easier to get a business credit card . This gives you benefits like payment flexibility, credit card rewards and essential early or emergency spending power. It will also help your business establish or strengthen its credit so you can get favorable terms on future loans and other credit.

7. Launch and market your business

You’ve planned out your business, defined its structure and gotten your business registered, licensed, permitted and even paid for. Now it’s showtime. For many who seek to start a small business at home, the launch is the most exciting part of the journey. You are now ready to conduct business.

It’s also important to get others excited about your small business — and keep them engaged. Here are some of the most common marketing strategies for small home-based businesses:

  • Social media marketing: Reach potential customers on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) by sharing engaging content and updates.
  • Business website: More than just a place to sell your products or services online, your business website should help users find what they want to meet their needs. It should also help achieve business objectives by offering features like payment services or e-commerce functionality .
  • Advertising: Platforms such as search engines and social media can help you reach your target audience.
  • Content marketing: Write blog posts, produce videos or create helpful graphics to explain what your business offers and to establish trust and authority.
  • Email marketing: To keep business coming back, build an email list to communicate using promotions, newsletters and updates.
  • Word of mouth: In the early stages, many small home-based businesses rely on word of mouth. You can also ask for customer reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp.

Weigh the costs and benefits when deciding on your marketing plan, so you choose what’s best for your business.

Top home business ideas

Check out these home business ideas to find the right fit for you:

  • Retail: Sell products you make — including crafts and customized gifts — or resell products you get for less than what you pay for them.
  • Case-based services: Open up an in-home daycare, provide home-based care for adults or even take care of pets by offering pet sitting and mobile grooming.
  • Events: Plan weddings and events. Create the perfect look as a makeup artist or stylist. Play music in a band or take your place on the 1s and 2s as a DJ.
  • Art and creative services: Capture the moment as a photographer, or maybe you’d rather bring your vision to life as an artist. More of a words person? Write, edit or translate content. 
  • Education: Teach the next generation how to do math, play an instrument or learn a new language. Provide adults with specialized training in arts and crafts, life coaching or test preparation.
  • Health and wellness: Become a personal trainer to get people in the best shape of their lives or a mental health counselor to help them find their inner peace.
  • Home and real estate: Transform homes by organizing, decorating or even staging. Produce virtual home tours for real estate agents, or become a realtor yourself.

Resources to start a business

For more resources and guidance on how to start a small business at home, check out these guides and articles:

  • Follow our step-by-step guide on how to start a business from the ground up.
  • Learn how to start an LLC if that’s your chosen business structure.
  • Discover how to start a business with no money so funding doesn’t hold you back.
  • Skip the overhead that comes with brick-and-mortar stores and find out how to start an online business .
  • Explore options to accept payments online and start making money in your sleep.
  • Find the cheapest payroll services to pay your employees and contractors.
  • Build a successful business by attracting loyal, repeat customers. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

The cost of starting a business at home varies widely and depends on several factors. Some businesses, including sole proprietorships, can get away with paying little to no money to start their business. Other home-based businesses, including those with manufacturing or inventory expenses, could have considerably higher startup costs.

Yes, you can use your home address to register a business. However, you’ll want to make sure that usage does not go against local laws, HOA bylaws or property covenants. It’s also a good idea to check with your mortgage and homeowners insurance companies to make sure that running a business out of your home does not introduce unforeseen headaches.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Blair Travers

Blair Travers is a business writer and content strategist with over a decade of experience breaking down complex problems to help businesses move forward with confidence. He brings a wide range of technology, banking and retail expertise. Blair enjoys helping businesses figure out complex processes and make choices that are right for them. His work has been published in U.S. News & World Report and Carfax.

Sierra Campbell is a small business editor for USA Today Blueprint. She specializes in writing, editing and fact-checking content centered around helping businesses. She has worked as a digital content and show producer for several local TV stations, an editor for U.S. News & World Report and a freelance writer and editor for many companies. Sierra prides herself in delivering accurate and up-to-date information to readers. Her expertise includes credit card processing companies, e-commerce platforms, payroll software, accounting software and virtual private networks (VPNs). She also owns Editing by Sierra, where she offers editing services to writers of all backgrounds, including self-published and traditionally published authors.

How to start a small business: A step-by-step guide

How to start a small business: A step-by-step guide

Business Eric Rosenberg

IMAGES

  1. What's in a Home Staging Business Plan?

    business plan for home staging company

  2. Home Staging Business Plan

    business plan for home staging company

  3. Home Staging Business Plan

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  4. Home Staging Business Plan With Objective And Operations

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  5. How to Write a Home Remodeling Business Plan

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  6. This [Free] Home Staging Proposal Template Won $68M of Business

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VIDEO

  1. New Business Plan

  2. The business plan home renovation and interior design

  3. BUILDING MY BUSINESS FROM HOME II

  4. Home staging success

  5. Building a Property Business

  6. Business Basis You Need To Understand As A Business Owner

COMMENTS

  1. Home Staging Business Plan Template & Guide [Updated 2024]

    Written by Dave Lavinsky Home Staging Business Plan Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their home staging businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regard to the importance of business planning.

  2. How to Start a Successful Home Staging Business in 2024

    Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You Pros and cons Starting a home staging business has pros and cons that you should consider before deciding if it's right for you. Pros High Demand - Home staging is becoming increasingly common Good Money - With few expenses you'll have high margins Fun!

  3. How to Start a Profitable Home Staging Business [11 Steps]

    1. Perform market analysis. Embarking on a home staging business requires a thorough understanding of the current market. A solid market analysis will help you identify your target clients, understand your competition, and pinpoint the specific needs and trends in your area. Here's how to get started:

  4. Home Staging Business Plan Template (2024)

    Below is a template to help you create each section of your Home Staging business plan. Executive Summary Business Overview HomeScape Solutions is a startup home staging company located in Scottsdale, Arizona.

  5. How to Start a Home Staging Business

    Photo: Rebecca Duke To get started, there are a number of paths, from reaching out to real estate agents to staging your own home when it's on the market. There's also the option of working...

  6. Starting a Home Staging Business

    STEP 1: Plan your business A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are: What will you name your business? What are the startup and ongoing costs? Who is your target market? How much can you charge customers?

  7. How to Start a Home Staging Business

    Staging homes professionally and launching your own business involves a lot of work and upfront costs, including obtaining furniture and other home decor items, building a clientele, marketing yourself, securing storage space, and tracking inventory. Related: How Interior Designers Use Sortly for Inventory Management

  8. 8 Steps to Building a Home Staging Business

    ‍ A home staging company sounds like an essential business venture, but how do you even get started? Keep reading for your step-by-step guide to launching your home staging business. Step One: Assess the Financials Let's be honest: Launching a business is an expensive endeavor—and the home staging industry is no exception.

  9. How to Start a Home Staging Business: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide

    A home staging business is a venture that focuses on preparing properties for sale in the real estate market. This includes making a home visually appealing to potential buyers through interior design, decluttering, and enhancing the property's overall aesthetic appeal.

  10. How to Start a Home Staging Business

    1. Choose the Name for Your Home Staging Business The first step to starting a home staging business is to choose your business' name. This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable.

  11. What's in a Home Staging Business Plan?

    What's in a Home Staging Business Plan? Recommend Sections in a Home Staging Business Plan Executive summary Business details What we do and how we do it Business background Our goal/mission Our strategy Current and planned team Market analysis Competitor analysis SWOT - Internal and external forces Marketing strategy and budget Launch Strategy

  12. The #1 Home Staging Business Plan Template & Guidebook

    How to Write a Home Staging Business Plan in 7 Steps: 1. Describe the Purpose of Your Home Staging Business. The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your home staging business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers.

  13. How to Make a Home Staging Business Plan

    1. Choose a Name for Your Staging Business I recommend that every new home stager starts by sitting down and thinking of a name for their business. This will get you excited about beginning to promote your business, and better yet it will make things feel official! It's also an opportunity to consider your business's personality.

  14. How to Start a Home Staging Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Business Plan Template for a Home Staging Business. Prepared by: [Your Name] Date: [Date] 1. Executive Summary. Overview of the business and its mission. Briefly highlight key points from each section of the plan. Mention the stage of your business (startup, expansion, etc.). Provide a summary of financial projections. 2. Business Description

  15. How to Start a Home Staging Business

    Connecting with real estate agents, developers, and private home sellers can get your home staging business off to a running start. Attend local networking events relevant to this industry or get in touch with nearby real estate agents or developers by email or through social networking sites like LinkedIn. Introducing yourself to your target ...

  16. How to Start a Home Staging Business: Updated Guide

    The basic expenses to start a commercial home staging business are the following: Setting up your business name and structure: $200. Marketing materials: $300 to $2,500. Liability insurance: $100 to $200. If you want to buy decorating supplies and inventory, consider looking into furniture rental services to save some money or apply for ...

  17. How to Start a Home Staging Business

    Taking Preliminary Business Steps. 1. Create a business name. You can come up with something unique to your concept or just use your personal name. If you use a concept name then keep it relevant to your industry. You want a name connected to the ideas of home and design.

  18. Starting a Home Staging Business: An Insightful Guide

    Wrapping Up the Essentials of Starting a Home Staging Business. Breaking into the home staging business is an exciting venture that combines creativity, strategy, and a keen eye for design. It's about embellishing a property to be visually enticing to potential buyers. A lucrative niche in the vast real estate market, it demands your artistic ...

  19. Home Staging Business Plan

    Home Staging Business Plan is an outline of your overall home staging business. The home staging business plan should include a 5 year (+1) 9784800910, ... With Sophia Martinez at the helm, her home staging company is going to make waves in Miami's real estate market, known for its innovative techniques, dedication to client happiness, and ...

  20. Home Staging Business Plan Sample

    2.3 Customers If you are looking for how to start a staging company, the thing that can benefit you the most in devising your services and marketing policies is knowing your customers. Our major customers will be the property owners who want to renew their residential and commercial estate before selling it.

  21. Virtual Staging Business (As a Second Business)?

    Staging Business Plan. Every home staging business starts with a plan, even if it's secondary to the main company. Realistically success and failure are the difference between having a good staging plan and not having one at all. On average it takes 6 months to a year for a staging business with a plan to get its foot at the market's door.

  22. How to Start a Home Staging Business

    Annual Earnings: $72,000 - $192,000 Actions to Hit Those Numbers: Staging: Training: Join professional staging organizations for training and credibility. Trends: Keep up to date with interior design trends to ensure your staging appeals to the widest possible audience. Prop Inventory:

  23. Home Staging Business Plan [Sample Template]

    1. Industry Overview The real estate industry of which home staging business is sup set of is indeed one of the many industries that is a major contributor to the growth of the economy of many nations of the world; there is hardly any country where the real estate industry is not pretty active.

  24. How to Start a Small Business at Home in 2024

    A business plan outlines the direction of the business — its goals, strategies, structure, ways of measuring success and plans for dealing with things like change and risk. Simply put, it's ...

  25. Appliance Parts Maker Robertshaw Files for Bankruptcy to Cut Debt

    Robertshaw U.S. Holding has filed for bankruptcy as the century-old appliance parts maker seeks to cut debt and resolve lender litigation. The Itasca, Ill.-based company, owned by private-equity ...

  26. Grammarly Restructures Business

    To arrive at today's decision, we took a look at our organizational design and the current skillsets of our teams through the lens of our company strategy. As we strengthen our focus toward driving the AI-enabled workplace and deepen our technical investments in AI, we will need a different mix of capabilities and skillsets.