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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

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.

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Home Staging Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Home Staging Business Plan Template

If you’re looking to create a home staging business plan, you’ve come to the right place!

Over the past 25 years, the PlanPros team has helped over 1 million entrepreneurs and business owners write business plans….and many of them have started and grown successful home staging businesses. Below is an example of a business plan for a home staging business.

Home Staging Business Plan Example

Below is our home staging business plan template and sample plan created using our ai business plan generator :  

I. Executive Summary

Company overview.

Located in the vibrant city of Melbourne, FL, PrestigeStage Staging is at the forefront of transforming homes into highly marketable properties. Our mission is to enhance the appeal of our clients’ homes, ensuring they stand out in the competitive real estate market. We specialize in home staging and design services, leveraging our expertise to create visually appealing spaces that captivate potential buyers. Our comprehensive suite of services includes home staging consultations, furniture rental, and personalized design plans tailored to each unique property. With our strategic location in Melbourne, we are well-positioned to serve a diverse clientele within this dynamic market.

Success Factors

Our success is built upon a foundation of key factors and notable achievements. With an experienced and visionary CEO, Penelope Cox, leading the way, we have established a reputation for excellence in the home staging industry. Our ability to deliver innovative and effective staging solutions sets us apart, as does our commitment to customer satisfaction. Our accomplishments to date reflect our dedication to quality and effectiveness, positioning PrestigeStage Staging as a leader in our field. As we move forward, these success factors will continue to drive our growth and enhance our market presence.

Industry Analysis

The home staging industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing recognition of the value staging adds to the real estate transaction process. With a thriving real estate market in Melbourne, FL, and surrounding areas, the demand for professional staging services is on the rise. Homeowners, real estate agents, and property developers seek to maximize property appeal and sales potential, highlighting the importance of staging in today’s market. This growing demand presents a substantial opportunity for PrestigeStage Staging, as we leverage our expertise and innovative services to meet the needs of a diverse client base. The industry’s expansion underscores the potential for continued success and growth for companies that can deliver high-quality, effective staging solutions.

Customer Analysis

Our target customers encompass a broad range of individuals and professionals, including homeowners looking to sell, real estate agents, and property developers. These clients recognize the value of staging in enhancing property appeal and maximizing sales potential. They are located in Melbourne, FL, and the surrounding areas, a market characterized by its dynamic real estate landscape. Our services cater to varying needs, from those seeking comprehensive staging solutions to clients needing personalized consultation and design advice. Understanding our customers’ diverse requirements enables us to tailor our offerings effectively, ensuring satisfaction and optimal results.

Competitive Analysis

  • Inspiring Homes Staging & Design:  Offers a wide range of services with a strong local reputation but may alienate budget-conscious clients with higher price points.
  • Maria Dante Studio:  Specializes in luxury staging and design, catering to high-end properties, potentially limiting accessibility for mid-market clients.
  • Reclaimed Squared Design:  Focuses on eco-friendly services, appealing to environmentally-conscious clients, though their niche focus may limit broader appeal.

PrestigeStage Staging’s competitive advantages lie in our ability to combine innovative design with practical solutions, catering to a wide range of budgets and customer needs. Our emphasis on customer satisfaction and market knowledge positions us uniquely in the competitive landscape.

Marketing Plan

Our marketing strategy focuses on showcasing our comprehensive range of home staging and design services, including consultations, furniture rental, and personalized design plans. We offer competitive pricing to cater to a wide array of budgets, ensuring our services are accessible to a broad customer base. Our promotions plan is multifaceted, utilizing digital marketing, social media, and partnerships with real estate agencies to enhance our visibility and reach potential clients effectively. By highlighting our expertise, quality of service, and successful project outcomes, we aim to attract and retain a diverse clientele, driving growth and establishing a strong market presence.

Operations Plan

The key operational processes of PrestigeStage Staging include client consultation, property assessment, design planning, staging execution, and post-service follow-up. Our milestones encompass expanding our service offerings, scaling our operations to new markets, and continuous improvement of our staging techniques and customer service practices. These operational strategies are designed to ensure efficient service delivery, high client satisfaction, and sustained business growth.

Management Team

Under the skilled leadership of CEO Penelope Cox, our management team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to PrestigeStage Staging. Penelope’s previous success in the home staging industry and her strategic vision provide the company with the direction and innovation needed to thrive. Our team’s dedication to excellence and deep understanding of market dynamics are instrumental in driving our success and establishing PrestigeStage Staging as a leader in the home staging industry.

Financial Plan

We are focused on securing the necessary funding to achieve our growth goals. This includes expanding our service offerings, enhancing our marketing efforts, and potentially entering new markets. Achieving these objectives will enable us to capitalize on the growing demand for home staging services, driving revenue growth and solidifying our position in the industry. Our financial plan is designed to ensure we have the resources needed to execute our strategic vision and continue delivering exceptional value to our clients.

Below is an overview of our expected financial performance over the next five years:

II. Company Overview

PrestigeStage Staging is a pioneering Home Staging service based in Melbourne, FL. As a nascent entity in the local market, we recognize the gap in high-quality home staging services within our community. With this understanding, we are committed to elevating the standards of home presentation, ensuring that every property we touch transforms into a captivating space for potential buyers.

At PrestigeStage Staging, our offerings are meticulously designed to meet a wide array of needs, ranging from furniture and decor rentals to full-service home staging. We provide comprehensive consultation services to tailor our approach to each unique property, ensuring optimal results. For those embracing technology, our virtual staging solutions offer a futuristic way to enhance property appeal digitally. Additionally, we support our clients with professional photography and marketing materials, ensuring that the visual presentation of their property stands out in today’s competitive market.

Operating from Melbourne, FL, our services are exclusively tailored for the local market. This strategic focus allows us to cultivate a deep understanding of the local real estate dynamics, enabling us to offer customized solutions that resonate with the trends and preferences of potential buyers in Melbourne.

Our confidence in the success of PrestigeStage Staging stems from a solid foundation. The expertise of our founder, who brings valuable experience from running a successful home staging business, combined with our innovative approach to enhancing property appeal, sets us apart from the competition. We are not just staging homes; we are crafting environments that inspire and entice.

Since our founding on January 5, 2024, we have taken significant strides towards establishing our brand in the Melbourne market. PrestigeStage Staging is proud to be a S Corporation, a testament to our commitment to professional excellence and accountability. Our accomplishments, including the development of our unique company name, the design of our logo, and securing a prime location for our operations, are just the beginning. We are on a path to redefine home staging in Melbourne, and we invite you to join us on this exciting journey.

III. Industry Analysis

The Home Staging industry in the United States is currently estimated to be worth around $3 billion. This figure includes revenue generated from staging services, furniture rentals, and other related products and services. With the real estate market booming and more sellers recognizing the value of staging their homes, the industry is expected to continue growing at a steady pace in the coming years.

One of the key trends in the Home Staging industry is the increasing demand for virtual staging services. With advancements in technology, many home staging companies are now offering virtual staging options, allowing sellers to showcase their homes in a more cost-effective and efficient manner. This trend bodes well for PrestigeStage Staging, as it positions the company to cater to a wider range of clients and stay ahead of the competition.

Another trend in the Home Staging industry is the growing popularity of eco-friendly and sustainable staging practices. As more consumers become environmentally conscious, there is a rising demand for staging companies that prioritize sustainability in their services. PrestigeStage Staging can capitalize on this trend by incorporating eco-friendly practices into their staging process, attracting environmentally conscious clients and setting themselves apart in the market.

IV. Customer Analysis

Below is a description of our target customers and their core needs.

Target Customers

We will primarily target homeowners looking to sell their properties quickly and at a higher market value. These customers are often motivated by the desire to make a strong first impression on potential buyers, and home staging is a proven method to achieve this goal. Our services will highlight the home’s best features, creating an inviting atmosphere that attracts serious offers.

Real estate agents will also be a crucial segment we target, as they frequently advise their clients on how to enhance property appeal. By partnering with realtors, we will ensure a steady stream of referrals, as staged homes tend to sell faster and at better prices. Agents will value our expertise in creating visually compelling spaces that facilitate quicker sales.

We will also focus on property investors who aim to flip houses for profit. These investors often require staging services to make renovated properties more marketable. By showcasing the potential of these homes through strategic staging, we will help investors realize higher returns on their investments.

Additionally, we will cater to new home builders who want to present model homes in the best possible light. A well-staged model home will give potential buyers a clear vision of what living in the space could be like, thereby increasing the likelihood of a sale. By working closely with builders, we will ensure that each property is presented at its absolute best.

Local residents looking to enhance their living spaces will also benefit from our services. Whether preparing for a special event or simply wanting to refresh their home’s interior, these customers will appreciate our ability to transform their environments. By offering customized solutions, we will meet the diverse needs of our community.

Customer Needs

Customers expect high-quality home staging services to enhance the appeal of their properties. PrestigeStage Staging can transform spaces to be more attractive to potential buyers, thereby increasing the likelihood of a sale. Homeowners aim to maximize their property value and reduce the time it sits on the market.

Clients look for professional expertise in arranging furniture and décor to create inviting and functional living spaces. PrestigeStage Staging offers design consultation and implementation services tailored to meet individual client needs. Attention to detail and personalized solutions are critical to achieving customer satisfaction.

Homeowners also need flexibility and reliability in service delivery. PrestigeStage Staging ensures timely and efficient staging processes, accommodating tight schedules and last-minute requests. Providing clear communication and consistent updates helps build trust and rapport with clients.

Additionally, environmentally conscious customers seek sustainable staging options. PrestigeStage Staging commits to using eco-friendly materials and practices, aligning with the growing demand for sustainability. This commitment not only appeals to a broader audience but also enhances the company’s reputation in the market.

V. Competitive Analysis

Direct competitors.

PrestigeStage Staging’s competitors include the following companies:

Inspiring Homes Staging & Design

Inspiring Homes Staging & Design offers a range of services including home staging, interior design, and virtual consultations. They cater to both occupied and vacant homes. Their price points vary based on the project scope, starting at $500 for basic consultations and going up to $5,000 for full home staging packages. They generate annual revenues in the range of $500,000 to $1 million. Located in Melbourne, FL, Inspiring Homes Staging & Design primarily serves customers in Melbourne and nearby areas. Their customer segments include homeowners looking to sell, real estate agents, and property investors. Key strengths include a strong local reputation and a comprehensive service offering. However, their pricing can be on the higher side, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious clients.

Maria Dante Studio

Maria Dante Studio specializes in luxury home staging and interior design services. They offer personalized design consultations, furniture rental, and styling services. Their price points are premium, starting at $1,000 for basic consultations and going up to $10,000 for full home staging and design projects. They have annual revenues ranging from $1 million to $2 million. Based in Melbourne, FL, Maria Dante Studio serves high-end residential properties in Melbourne and surrounding upscale neighborhoods. Their customer segments include luxury homeowners, real estate agents dealing with high-end properties, and developers. Key strengths include a focus on luxury and high-quality design elements. However, their services may not be accessible to mid-market or budget-conscious clients.

Reclaimed Squared Design

Reclaimed Squared Design offers eco-friendly home staging and design services. They focus on sustainable and reclaimed materials for their projects. Their price points are mid-range, starting at $600 for basic consultations and going up to $7,000 for full home staging and design services. They generate annual revenues between $700,000 and $1.5 million. Located in Melbourne, FL, Reclaimed Squared Design serves customers in Melbourne and the broader Space Coast area. Their customer segments include environmentally-conscious homeowners, real estate agents, and property developers. Key strengths include a unique focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. However, their niche focus may limit their appeal to a broader audience looking for traditional staging solutions.

Competitive Advantages

At PrestigeStage Staging, we have a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of market trends, allowing us to enhance the appeal of a property for potential buyers more effectively than our competition. By leveraging contemporary design principles and high-quality furnishings, we create inviting, aesthetically pleasing environments that enable buyers to envision themselves living in the space. Our team’s expertise in interior design and real estate market dynamics ensures that each staged home is tailored to meet the preferences and expectations of the target demographic, ultimately leading to quicker sales and higher offers.

We also pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service and personalized approach. Each project we undertake is treated with the utmost care, ensuring clear and consistent communication with our clients throughout the entire process. This commitment to service excellence not only builds trust but also fosters long-term relationships with real estate agents and homeowners alike. Furthermore, our flexible pricing options and swift turnaround times provide added convenience and value, making us the go-to choice for home staging in the Melbourne area. By combining design expertise, market knowledge, and outstanding service, PrestigeStage Staging stands out as a leader in transforming properties to maximize their market potential.

VI. Marketing Plan

Our marketing plan, included below, details our products/services, pricing and promotions plan.

Products, Services & Pricing

PrestigeStage Staging offers a variety of services designed to enhance the appeal of homes for sale, making them more attractive to potential buyers. One of the key offerings is Furniture and Decor Rentals. This service provides clients with high-quality furniture and decorative items to create a visually appealing and inviting atmosphere in homes. The average cost for furniture and decor rentals ranges from $500 to $1,500 per month, depending on the size and needs of the property.

Consultation Services are another essential component of PrestigeStage Staging’s offerings. During these consultations, experts provide homeowners with professional advice on how to best present their property. This may include recommendations on decluttering, rearranging existing furniture, and minor home improvements. An initial consultation typically costs around $150 to $300, providing valuable insights that can significantly enhance a home’s marketability.

Full-Service Home Staging is a comprehensive package that includes everything from initial consultation to complete setup of furniture and decor. This service ensures that every aspect of the home is optimally presented to attract buyers. The average price for full-service home staging ranges from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the property size and complexity of the staging requirements.

Virtual Staging is a modern solution for vacant homes or those that are already furnished but need a visual boost. This service uses advanced digital techniques to add furniture and decor to photographs of the property, giving potential buyers an idea of how the space can be utilized. The cost for virtual staging averages between $75 to $150 per image, offering a cost-effective way to enhance online listings.

Photography and Marketing Materials are crucial for capturing the attention of buyers. High-quality photographs and professionally designed brochures can make a significant difference in how a property is perceived. PrestigeStage Staging provides these services at an average cost of $300 to $600, ensuring that the home is presented in the best possible light both online and in print materials.

Promotions Plan

We employ a diverse array of promotional methods and tactics to attract customers in Melbourne, FL. Through a multi-faceted approach, we ensure maximum visibility and engagement with potential clients.

Our online marketing strategy is robust and comprehensive. We utilize search engine optimization (SEO) to improve our website’s visibility on search engines, making it easier for clients to find our services. Additionally, we leverage pay-per-click (PPC) advertising to drive targeted traffic to our website. Social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, play a crucial role in showcasing our portfolio, engaging with our audience, and running targeted ad campaigns.

Email marketing forms a core component of our customer outreach strategy. We collect email addresses through our website and social media channels, using them to send out newsletters, promotional offers, and updates about our services. Our email campaigns are designed to nurture leads, convert prospects into clients, and maintain relationships with past customers.

Networking within the local real estate community is another key tactic. We build relationships with real estate agents, brokers, and property developers, offering them exclusive partnerships and referral incentives. These partnerships help us gain access to a steady stream of clients who are in need of home staging services.

We also participate in local events and trade shows to increase our visibility within the community. By setting up booths and offering live demonstrations of our staging techniques, we attract direct interest from potential clients. Additionally, we sponsor local events and community activities, enhancing our brand recognition and reputation.

Public relations efforts are also integral to our promotional strategy. We send press releases to local media outlets, highlighting our unique services and any special promotions we are offering. By securing media coverage, we increase our credibility and reach a wider audience.

Lastly, we rely on word-of-mouth marketing and client testimonials. Satisfied clients are encouraged to leave reviews on our website and social media pages. Positive testimonials and referrals significantly bolster our reputation and attract new customers.

By implementing these varied promotional methods and tactics, we effectively capture the attention of potential clients and establish ourselves as a trusted home staging service in Melbourne, FL.

VII. Operations Plan

Our Operations Plan details:

  • The key day-to-day processes that our business performs to serve our customers
  • The key business milestones that our company expects to accomplish as we grow

Key Operational Processes

To ensure the success of PrestigeStage Staging, there are several key day-to-day operational processes that we will perform:

  • Client Consultations:  We schedule and conduct initial consultations with clients to understand their needs, preferences, and expectations.
  • Property Assessments:  We visit properties to assess space, layout, and existing furniture, and take measurements and photographs for planning purposes.
  • Design Planning:  We create detailed staging plans, including furniture selections, color schemes, and accessory choices, tailored to each property.
  • Inventory Management:  We manage our inventory of furniture, decor, and staging materials, ensuring all items are in good condition and ready for use.
  • Logistics Coordination:  We schedule and coordinate the delivery and setup of staging materials, as well as the removal and return of items after the staging period.
  • Vendor Relationships:  We maintain relationships with furniture rental companies, moving services, and other vendors to ensure timely and efficient service delivery.
  • Marketing and Promotion:  We promote our services through various marketing channels, including social media, online advertising, and networking events.
  • Client Communication:  We maintain regular communication with clients, providing updates and addressing any concerns or questions they may have.
  • Team Coordination:  We coordinate with our team of designers, movers, and administrative staff to ensure smooth operations and efficient workflow.
  • Quality Control:  We perform quality checks to ensure all staged properties meet our high standards before showcasing them to potential buyers.
  • Financial Management:  We manage our finances, including invoicing clients, tracking expenses, and budgeting for future projects.
  • Continuous Improvement:  We regularly review our processes and seek feedback from clients to identify areas for improvement and enhance our services.

PrestigeStage Staging expects to complete the following milestones in the coming months in order to ensure its success:

  • Complete the setup of the business website and social media profiles.
  • Develop a portfolio of staged homes to showcase our capabilities.
  • Secure initial client contracts within the first three months of operation.
  • Build a network of key partnerships with real estate agents and brokers in the Melbourne, FL area.
  • Hire and train a small team of reliable and skilled staging professionals.
  • Achieve $15,000/month in revenue within the first 12 months of operation.
  • Establish a customer feedback and referral program to drive repeat business and new client acquisition.
  • Implement effective quality control measures to ensure consistent high-quality staging services.
  • Expand service offerings to include premium packages or specialized staging services based on market demand.
  • Secure a warehouse or storage facility for staging inventory to improve operational efficiency.
  • Develop and execute targeted marketing campaigns to increase brand awareness and attract new clients.

VIII. Management Team

Our management team has the experience and expertise to successfully execute on our business plan.

Management Team Members

PrestigeStage Staging management team, which includes the following members, has the experience and expertise to successfully execute on our business plan:

Penelope Cox, CEO

Penelope Cox has a history of success and has successfully run a home staging business in the past. Her extensive experience in the home staging industry equips her with the unique insights and strategic vision necessary to lead PrestigeStage Staging towards lasting success. With a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of market dynamics, Penelope ensures that the company’s staging services are both innovative and highly effective, setting new standards in the industry.

IX. Financial Plan

Funding requirements/use of funds.

To accomplish our growth goals, PrestigeStage Staging needs $120,000 in funding. Key uses of this funding will be as follows:

Financial Projections

financial projection home staging business plan

5 Year Annual Income Statement

5 year annual balance sheet, 5 year annual cash flow statement, what is a home staging business plan.

A home staging business plan is a document that outlines the strategies you have developed to start and/or grow your home staging business. Among other things, it details information about your industry, customers and competitors to help ensure your company is positioned properly to succeed. Your home staging business plan also assesses how much funding you will need to grow your business and proves, via your financial forecasts, why the business is viable.  

Why You Need a Business Plan for your Home Staging Business

A business plan is required if you are seeking funding for your home staging business. Investors and lenders will review your plan to ensure it meets their criteria before providing you with capital. In addition, a home staging business plan helps you and your team stay focused. It documents the strategies you must follow and gives you financial projections you should strive to achieve and against which you can judge your performance.  

Dave Lavinsky

home staging institute

What’s in a Home Staging Business Plan?

  • Last Updated: September 2, 2022

What’s In A Home Staging Business Plan?

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.

Exclusive for Home Staging Institute Students:

Look in your course dashboard for more in-depth information on this topic.

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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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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home staging business plan pdf

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.

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.

Image: Envato Elements

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Staging Success: How To Start, Run, and Maintain a Home Staging Business

home staging business plan pdf

If you enjoy transforming living areas into attractive and marketable spaces, a home staging business could be the right venture for you. However, there’s more to it than staging and interior styling. Expect the majority of your time to be spent on practical tasks like logistics, inventory, project coordination, marketing, invoicing, etc.

In this guide, we help you tackle the first steps in establishing your home staging business. If you lack experience but are ready to put in the hard work and discipline, we’ll help you set your business up for success!

What Is a Home Staging Business?

To make sure that we’re on the same page, let’s review the basics. A home staging business involves staging real estate properties to make them more saleable. These properties include residential homes, office spaces, commercial listings, apartment buildings, etc.

The purpose of home staging is to make a space more appealing to prospective buyers so they can visualize the possibilities of a space. However, its main purpose is to sell the property faster at a higher profit.

Figures from the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP) show that staging works, and there is a healthy demand for it. Staged properties sell up to 30 times faster than non-staged listings and for 20% more. Meanwhile, a million homes out of five million were staged in 2019. The same article claims that there are less than 10,000 professional home staging businesses in the world.

14 Steps for Starting a Home Staging Business

While anyone can start a home staging business, it takes a lot of work to turn the venture into a success. We’ve outlined all the important steps to make setting up your home staging business easier.  

1. Research and Plan

The first step to starting your home staging business is researching the market and preparing a business plan.

Researching the market involves understanding demand and the different types of neighborhoods, potential customers, competitors, etc. For example, home staging in an affluent neighborhood will naturally require you to invest in more costly furniture.

Since home staging is not a regulated industry, you’ll often find real estate agents, brokers, homeowners, and independent home stagers competing with you. You’ll want to understand how many home stagers work in your area and study their business structure, pricing, services offered, etc.

You also want to get started on the planning by brainstorming things like your business name, business structure, etc. The US Small Business Administration has a simple business plan template that you can use as guidance for writing your own.  

2. Get Certificates and Credentials

The home staging industry isn’t regulated, so there’s no official certification. But getting a certificate can set you apart from the competition. What’s more, you’ll also be able to learn a few things about the industry, the work involved, the latest trends, and the business side of things.

The IAHSP is a good place to start. You can keep up with the global community, search for events, find educational resources, and more. You can also enroll in numerous home staging courses online from the New York Art & Design’s Online Home Staging Course to the Real Estate Staging Association’s Roadmap to Starting a Home Staging Business . Look for quality instructors and institutions that offer ongoing support to their alumni. This may include online resources and digital communities where former students can ask questions, exchange ideas, and more. Join social media groups like IAHSP’s Home Staging Professionals Group on Facebook.  

3. Calculate Startup Costs and Pricing Structure

It’s necessary to have clarity on your pricing structure so you can negotiate the right price for your services. Of course, setting your rates too high or low can be a huge blow to your home staging business so this step is quite important.

How do you determine pricing?

Getting a rough estimate of your startup costs will help you develop a pricing structure. Then again, the costs of home staging can differ widely based on your niche, property condition, location, experience, expertise, etc. You also have to decide whether you’re going to charge clients on a per-project or hourly basis.

Apart from local market research of competitor prices, you should also take a look at online prices for home staging services. Make sure to note the charges for initial consultation, per-room staging, monthly furniture rentals, etc.

Your total costs will vary widely depending on your business structure. Homeowners selling their own property will often have a lean team and thus pay lower wages. Meanwhile, agent-run businesses relying on their agent network will often have to share a substantial percentage of their profits. On the other hand, business owners with marketing or interior design expertise can take on more roles to improve their earnings.

In addition, here are some costs that you should factor into your pricing calculations:

  • Operating costs
  • Inventory carrying costs
  • Maintenance and repair
  • Transportation
  • Salaries and wages
  • Insurance coverage
  • Utility bills
  • Professional membership fees and licensing costs
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Advertising and marketing

Reading up on budgeting and pricing guides can help immensely.  

4. Acquire Furniture

The next task is investing in furniture and home decor pieces to stage your property. While there are multiple ways to go about this, we suggest you get started by purchasing a couple of accessories like coffee tables, artwork, accent chairs, rug runners, throw pillows, etc.

You can opt for new or old furniture based on your budget and needs. Some of the places you can look at when sourcing inventory include Facebook Marketplace, Target, IKEA, thrift stores, Etsy, etc.

Renting is another option for those who don’t want to invest a huge chunk of money in their inventory. You can check local rental companies or talk to retailers if you can use their showroom furniture for staging.

If there are pieces you haven’t used in a while and don’t see the need for in the near future, it may be time to dispose of them instead of allowing them to incur monthly storage costs. The good news is there are people who specifically look for furniture from home staging businesses like yours. This is because the pieces you sell haven’t been used that much but are still sold at a discount. Sell them online or display the piece you no longer want in a staged home.  

5. Find a Storage and Transport Solution

You’ll need to find a storage unit for all your furniture when it’s not in use. There are two options for this, look for a storage unit in the area or build one on your property. Depending on your needs and priorities, both are viable choices.

Having all your inventory on the property makes every staging easier and is cost-efficient in the long run. However, building one from scratch can take some time and requires additional expense. Meanwhile, renting a storage unit requires no setup cost or work but it will entail a recurring monthly expense. If you choose to rent a warehouse or a part of it, you’ll get a better deal. But a lot of the work and expenses like handling utilities, insurance, maintenance, etc. will fall on your shoulders.

Another aspect to consider is how to move furniture from site to storage. While hiring a moving company is the best choice, you can try looking for a company that provides both storage and moving services. It is also not unheard of for beginners to take on the task of moving/transporting their furniture by renting a truck or a mini-truck.

Of course, you can skip most of the hard work by renting furniture or working with a furniture showroom and a moving company.  

6. Set up an Inventory Management Solution

When it comes to a home staging business, inventory may not seem like your key priority. However, it entails a large investment and related losses can eat up your profits and turn into a deficit.

According to a BBB report , 57% of complaints that movers receive involve the breakage or loss of at least one item of furniture. While you can’t completely prevent such incidents, you can get transit insurance to help soften the blow.

An inventory management solution also can help you manage any size of inventory singlehandedly. From labeling items to tracking them with QR codes , these solutions make it a breeze to keep an eye on your assets. Even better, you can track items as they’re moved across multiple locations.

An inventory management solution will also allow you to record details about your assets like purchases, receipts, insurance paperwork, photos, etc., helping you claim damages more easily should the need arise.  

7. Register Your Business

After going through the steps mentioned, you want to start making your home staging business official. So, your next priority is registering your business.

Figure out how you want to structure your company . Study the differences between various options like a limited liability company (LLC), sole proprietorship, general partnership, C Corp, and S Corp. All of them come with different liability conditions, tax requirements, setup processes and costs, operation costs, and paperwork requirements. Most business owners opt for an LLC simply because they’re easier to establish and offer owners liability protection. However, make sure to do your research before deciding. Go to sites like Nolo and ContractsCounsel for legal advice.  

8. Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

Applying for business licenses and permits is your next step. Some of these, like the employee identification number (EIN), are mandatory for registering and filing for taxes and such. So, make sure to apply for them now.

Of course, which licenses and permits you’ll need is largely based on your business location. For example, California doesn’t have specific permit requirements for a home staging business but you will need a seller’s permit . However, in some cities of Florida such as Fort Lauderdale, you’ll need to obtain a City Business Tax Receipt .  

9. Register for Taxes

You can register for federal and state taxes once you have your EIN, or social security number if you’re registering as a sole proprietorship. Your business structure must also be considered when deciding on the taxes you have to pay.

There are other tax-related tasks. It’s best to consult an accountant for advice that’s specific to your business. Accountants can help you understand important matters like tax cycles, deductible expenses, tax obligations, cash flow management, maintaining records and receipts, etc.

Another important matter to discuss is the method of depreciation you’ll use for your inventory. Unlike other types of inventory, home staging inventory includes fixed assets. It is necessary that the value of these assets be adjusted for depreciation so that you can have an accurate valuation of your business.  

10. Sign up for a Business Bank Account

You’ll need a separate business bank account if you’re planning on getting a business loan. A bank account for your business will also help with accounting and taxation later on. Plus, it can help you separate your business expenses from your personal expenses.  

11. Get Funding and Insurance

A home staging business requires a substantial upfront investment. So, you may need to secure funding. There’s also a lot of scope for losses and damages so you’ll want to protect your business assets with insurance.

For starters, you should consider how you’re going to fund your home staging business. Some of the popular options include:

  • SBA-guaranteed loans
  • Government grants
  • Business loans and investment help from family and friends

Of course, self-financing through savings or the sale of assets is also an option.

When it comes to insurance, there’s a lot to think about since you’ve got asset loss, property damage, bodily injury, professional errors, and more to worry about. In general, you should get insurance coverage for professional liability, general liability, worker’s comp, property damage, slip and fall accidents, builder’s risk, and bodily injury claims.  

12. Develop a Marketing Strategy

Use all the research, planning, and preparation you’ve done up until this point to develop your marketing strategy. You may also want to start working on your branding, website, and other marketing essentials for your home staging business.

Think about your audiences and budget. Consider which marketing channels are best for your needs. You may want to use social media marketing, print and online advertising, word-of-mouth marketing, networking events with realtors, etc.

Whichever option you choose, make sure to prepare a website and portfolio so your clients can take a closer look at your work more easily. You’ll also need to hire a web developer, graphic designer, and social media manager to design and manage your marketing channels.  

13. Recruit Employees

Depending on the stage that your company is in and business growth, you’ll need employees to take care of some tasks for you. The roles you choose to outsource depend on your professional background and skills. For example, real estate agents offering home staging as a value-added service won’t need to work with realtors but might want to hire interior styling experts.

Based on the division of roles, the operational tasks of buying furniture, keeping inventory, moving and transporting, etc. should be assigned to different employees.

Here are some roles and responsibilities that you can outsource to others:

  • Manager for managing inventory and scheduling appointments
  • Laborers for furniture delivery
  • Accountant for managing finances
  • Marketing manager for social media, SEO, and client sourcing
  • Assistant designers for staging-related tasks

Some of these are non-negotiable while others may only require freelancers. For example, you’ll need a permanent employee to build and organize your home staging inventory unless you’re doing it yourself. Other roles, like furniture delivery, will require temporary workers.  

14. Find Clients

While marketing your business is a crucial step, you can’t expect clients to rush through your doors in the first few weeks or even months. You’ll need to establish professional relationships with your local community of real estate agents, contractors, and brokers for word-of-mouth publicity. Try going to networking events and real estate conferences. If you’re a realtor, you can promote your services directly to your clients. You can also ask friends and family for references, post flyers, and more to win your first clients.

You can also keep an eye out for properties that have been on the market for some time. Try to schedule meetings with the sellers or the listing agents of these properties so you can pitch your services to them.

Do’s and Don’ts of Home Staging

Like any other business venture, experience is a valuable asset for any home staging business either. However, you should remember these do’s and don’ts during your initial years.  

  • Understand the target audience and their design style preferences.
  • Keep up with home staging trends.
  • Take care of the curb appeal.
  • Price your services properly.
  • Use quality inventory.
  • Get rid of clutter.
  • Remove any lingering odors.
  • Ensure that buyers can easily walk from room to room.
  • Find the right-sized furniture.
  • Develop a memorable brand.
  • Consider specializing in a niche.
  • Take professional photos of your staged homes.
  • Put together a staging kit of must-haves and add-ons.
  • Get professional help when it’s necessary.
  • Join online communities for home stagers.
  • Collect client testimonials.
  • Invest in client retention.
  • Track your business expenses.
  • Don’t give services or goods away for free.
  • Don’t let clients run the show.
  • Steer clear of bold and polarizing styles or colors.
  • Don’t neglect any area.
  • Don’t overstage/understage or add character into the space.
  • Don’t show the house if it’s still being used.
  • Spruce up a property but don’t invest in major renovations.

Frequently Asked Questions

For additional guidance, check out the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.  

How Profitable Is a Home Staging Business?

According to Glassdoor , a home staging business in the United States can easily make over $50,000 in annual profits. To earn this amount, you only need to stage five homes a month.  

How Does a Home Stager Find Clients?

Home stagers can get clients in multiple ways. Some of the best options include reaching out to realtors for referrals, attending or speaking at local conferences, leveraging online marketing, and networking with industry professionals.

A home staging business is just as challenging to set up as other businesses. The good news is it becomes easier as you become more familiar with the industry, your target market, how the business works, and how to prioritize the different aspects involved. Once you have things running smoothly, you’ll feel an extraordinary sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. After all, not everyone can have their own home staging business!

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Real Estate

How to Write a Home Staging Business Plan [Sample Template]

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

More on Real Estate

How to Start a Profitable Home Staging Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 02, 2024

image of a home staging business

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a home staging business plan., 3. develop a home staging brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for home staging., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for home staging services., 8. acquire home staging equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for home staging, if required., 10. begin marketing your home staging services., 11. expand your home staging business..

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:

  • Research your local real estate market to understand the demand for home staging services. Look at the average time homes are on the market and how staging could potentially affect this.
  • Identify your target demographic, such as real estate agents, homeowners, or developers, and determine the best ways to reach them.
  • Analyze competitors in your area to determine what services they offer, their pricing structures, and their market share.
  • Attend open houses and industry events to network with real estate professionals and gather insights on the latest staging trends and customer preferences.
  • Use online resources and databases to gather data on housing sales and trends, which can inform your service offerings and marketing strategies.
  • Consider the economic indicators of your region, such as employment rates and population growth, to gauge future demand for home staging services.

image of a home staging business

Are home staging businesses profitable?

Yes, home staging businesses can be very profitable. According to the Home Staging Resource, the average home staging business can make over $72,000 a year. However, success in this industry does require knowledge of marketing and pricing strategies, as well as an understanding of buying trends. Additionally, it is important to have an eye for design and be able to create attractive rooms that stand out to buyers.

Starting a home staging business requires a well-thought-out plan to ensure you cover all necessary aspects for success. It's essential to draft a comprehensive business plan that will guide your operations, financial management, and marketing strategies. Here’s a simplified guide to help you draft your home staging business plan:

  • Define your business mission and vision to set the tone for your overall objectives and the image you want to project.
  • Conduct a market analysis to understand your competition, potential client demographics, and market needs.
  • Detail the services you will offer, such as consultation, full-service staging, or rental of furniture and accessories.
  • Outline your pricing strategy, ensuring it's competitive yet sustainable for your business model.
  • Develop a marketing plan that includes branding, promotional materials, a website, social media presence, and networking strategies.
  • Plan your operational structure, including your home office setup, storage solutions for staging inventory, and transportation logistics.
  • Project your financials, including startup costs, ongoing expenses, revenue streams, and break-even analysis.
  • Identify any legal and insurance requirements to protect your business and comply with local regulations.
  • Establish a timeline for setting up your business, from registering your company to launching your first marketing campaign.

How does a home staging business make money?

Home staging businesses are able to make money by providing services such as furniture rentals, space rearrangement, and advice to homeowners looking to improve the appearance of their property for sale. For example, an 11 Steps To Starting a Successful Spice Business could target its services to restaurateurs who want to add flavor to their menus by offering a variety of quality spices. Home stagers can help them find reasonably-priced products and provide advice on how best to present them. The home staging business would then charge a fee for its services, making money in the process.

Building a strong brand for your home staging business is critical for attracting clients and setting yourself apart from the competition. It involves creating a unique identity that reflects your style, values, and professionalism. Here's how you can develop your home staging brand:

  • Define Your Unique Value Proposition: Determine what makes your service unique. Is it your innovative design, cost-effectiveness, or quick turnaround time? This will be the cornerstone of your brand identity.
  • Choose a Memorable Name and Logo: Pick a business name and design a logo that are not only memorable but also reflect the style and professionalism of your services.
  • Create a Consistent Aesthetic: Use consistent colors, fonts, and design elements across all your marketing materials, from your website to your business cards, to build brand recognition.
  • Develop a Strong Online Presence: Create a professional website and active social media profiles to showcase your portfolio and connect with potential clients.
  • Focus on Customer Experience: Ensure that every interaction with your brand is positive by providing excellent service, which will help build a good reputation and encourage word-of-mouth referrals.

How to come up with a name for your home staging business?

When deciding on a name for your home staging business, it's important to consider what your branding and marketing strategy should be. You want something that will stand out, be memorable, and communicate what your business is all about. Consider using words like “interiors”, “style”, or “flair” in the business name to get the message across that you specialize in making a home look its very best. You could even include your own name or something meaningful to you in the business name. Aim to make it catchy and unique, and don't be afraid to get creative with it! With a little brainstorming and research, you can come up with the perfect name for your home staging business.

image of ZenBusiness logo

Starting a home staging business requires not only creativity and design skills but also ensuring that the business is properly registered according to local laws and regulations. Formalizing your business registration is a crucial step that will give your enterprise legitimacy and help in establishing trust with clients. Follow these steps to ensure your home staging business is properly documented and compliant.

  • Choose a Business Structure: Decide whether your home staging business will be a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. Each structure has different legal and tax implications.
  • Register Your Business Name: Check for name availability and register your business name with the appropriate state agency. If you plan to operate under a different name than your own, you may need to file a DBA (Doing Business As).
  • Obtain an EIN: Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS for tax purposes, especially if you plan to hire employees.
  • Apply for Necessary Licenses and Permits: Depending on your location, you may need specific licenses or permits to operate a home staging business. Check with local and state agencies to determine what is required.
  • Open a Business Bank Account: With your registration details, open a dedicated business banking account to keep your personal and business finances separate.
  • Understand Sales Tax Requirements: If you're selling goods or services that are subject to sales tax, register with your state's taxing authority.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore critical resources for home staging entrepreneurs to gain insights on market trends, enhance operational efficiency, and strategize for business expansion:

  • Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) : Offers a wealth of resources including industry data, educational webinars, and networking opportunities. https://www.realestatestagingassociation.com
  • StagedHomes.com : Provides training and accreditation for home stagers, along with business growth tips and marketing strategies. https://www.stagedhomes.com
  • Houzz Pro : Features insights into current design trends and client management tools for home professionals. https://www.houzz.com/pro
  • Home Staging Resource (HSR) : Offers a comprehensive training program and resources for starting and running a successful home staging business. https://www.homestagingresources.com
  • Staging Diva : Focuses on the business side of home staging, providing courses and resources on marketing and profitability. https://www.stagingdiva.com
  • Pinterest and Instagram : Offer visual inspiration and marketing platforms tailored for home staging professionals to showcase their portfolios and attract clients.

Starting a home staging business requires not only a good eye for design but also the appropriate licenses and permits to operate legally. It's essential to ensure all legal requirements are met to avoid any future complications. Here’s a concise guide to help you with step 5 of launching your home staging enterprise.

  • Research Local Regulations: Check with your city or county clerk’s office to understand the specific licenses and permits needed in your area. Requirements vary by location.
  • Business License: Obtain a general business license to legally operate your home staging business. This is typically issued by your local government.
  • Resale Permit: If you plan to purchase furniture and decor items for staging, a resale permit may be required to buy items at wholesale prices without paying sales tax.
  • Professional Accreditation: Though not always required, consider obtaining accreditation from a professional staging organization to enhance credibility.
  • Insurance: Secure liability insurance to protect your business from potential legal action and property insurance for your inventory.
  • Building Permits: If your business requires a physical office space or a warehouse, you might need a building permit for any renovations.
  • Home Occupation Permit: If operating from a home office, a home occupation permit may be necessary depending on local zoning laws.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a home staging business?

In order to run a home staging business, you will need to obtain some basic business permits and licenses. This could include a business license from your local city or state government, a general liability insurance policy, and any licenses required to conduct business in your specific area. You may also need a home-based occupational license if you are running a home staging business from your residence. Additionally, you may need to get a certificate of occupancy or zoning permit if you are using outside locations for staging.

Starting a home staging business requires careful financial planning and management. A dedicated business bank account will help you keep your personal and business finances separate, while securing funding ensures that you have the necessary capital to purchase staging furniture, decor, and other supplies. Here are the steps to help you get started:

  • Choose the Right Bank: Research and compare various banks to find one that offers business banking services with favorable terms, such as low fees, online banking, and good customer service.
  • Open Your Account: Gather the necessary documentation, which typically includes your business license, EIN, and incorporation papers. Schedule an appointment with your chosen bank to set up your business bank account.
  • Understand Your Funding Options: Explore different funding sources such as small business loans, lines of credit, business credit cards, or investors, depending on your financial needs.
  • Prepare a Strong Business Plan: Use a detailed business plan that outlines your business strategy, financial projections, and the purpose of your funding to increase your chances of securing a loan or investment.
  • Consider a Business Credit Card: Apply for a business credit card to help manage expenses and build business credit, but be sure to use it responsibly.

Pricing your home staging services accurately is crucial for the success of your business. It needs to reflect the value you provide while remaining competitive within your market. Consider the following points when determining your pricing strategy:

  • Cost-plus pricing: Calculate your total costs and add a markup to ensure profitability. This includes the cost of furniture, materials, transportation, and labor.
  • Market rates: Research competitors' pricing to ensure your rates are in line with industry standards. Adjust for unique value propositions or services you offer.
  • Value-based pricing: Set prices based on the perceived value to the client. If your staging can significantly increase the home's sale price, your fees can reflect that value.
  • Package deals: Offer tiered packages for different levels of service, from consultation to full staging, to cater to a range of client needs and budgets.
  • Hourly vs. flat fees: Decide whether to charge an hourly rate for your time or a flat fee per project. Hourly can be beneficial for smaller jobs, while flat fees may be more appropriate for complete staging services.
  • Custom quotes: Provide personalized quotes for unique or large-scale projects where standardized pricing may not be sufficient.

What does it cost to start a home staging business?

Initiating a home staging business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $11200 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your home staging business.

When starting a home staging business, having the right equipment and supplies is essential. This not only helps you to effectively stage a home but also ensures that you can work efficiently and professionally. Here's a list of the essential items you should consider acquiring:

  • Furniture: Invest in a variety of pieces that can fit different home styles, including sofas, chairs, tables, and bed frames.
  • Decorative items: Purchase attractive and neutral artwork, vases, throw pillows, and other accessories to add character to rooms.
  • Linens: Stock up on quality bedding, towels, and draperies that can be used to enhance bedrooms and bathrooms.
  • Lighting: Have a selection of lamps and light fixtures to brighten up spaces and create a warm ambiance.
  • Storage: Secure storage solutions for your inventory, such as a climate-controlled warehouse or storage unit.
  • Tools: Keep a toolkit handy with basic tools for minor repairs and adjustments, including hammers, screwdrivers, and measuring tapes.
  • Transportation: Consider investing in a reliable van or truck for transporting furniture and supplies to and from staging sites.
  • Cleaning supplies: Maintain a stock of cleaning products to ensure each home is sparkling before staging.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a home staging business:

  • Computer: $400 - $2000
  • Design Software: $100 per month subscription fee
  • Furniture: Ranges from free - hundreds of dollars depending on the quality and type of furniture
  • Office Supplies: $100-$300 depending on the quantity and types of supplies purchased
  • Inventory Database Software: $50 - $500 depending on the type of software purchased
  • Camera Equipment: $300 – $1000 depending on the type of camera purchased
  • Website Hosting Service: $5 - $25 per month, depending on the hosting company
  • Printing Service: Approximately $0.05 – $0.50 per page or card
  • Advertising Materials: Varies widely depending on what type of materials you choose to purchase

When starting a home staging business, obtaining the right insurance is a protective measure that shields your business from unforeseen risks. Insurance not only safeguards your assets but also provides peace of mind to you and your clients. Here are the steps to guide you through obtaining business insurance for your home staging endeavor:

  • Identify the types of insurance you need, such as general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, and property insurance, to cover potential damages or accidents related to your services.
  • Research and compare insurance providers that specialize in small businesses or specifically in the home staging industry.
  • Consider the value of the items you will be staging and ensure your policy covers them adequately, especially in transit or at the staging site.
  • Look for a policy that offers coverage for any employees or subcontractors you might hire.
  • Consult with a licensed insurance agent who can provide tailored advice for your specific business needs and help you understand the policy details.
  • Once you've selected a provider, review the policy carefully before committing to ensure it meets all your requirements.
  • Keep your insurance documents accessible and review your policy annually or whenever there are significant changes to your business operations.

Now that you're ready to showcase your home staging talents, it's time to attract clients and grow your business. Effective marketing is key to letting potential customers know about the unique value you offer. Below are strategies to help you begin marketing your home staging services:

  • Develop a strong online presence: Create a professional website showcasing your portfolio, services, and testimonials. Utilize social media platforms to reach a wider audience and engage with potential clients.
  • Network within the industry: Attend real estate events, join local business groups, and connect with realtors who may require your services for their listings.
  • Offer introductory deals: Provide special offers to your first clients to encourage them to try your services and become advocates for your business.
  • Invest in advertising: Consider paid ads in local magazines, newspapers, and online platforms targeting homeowners and real estate professionals.
  • Leverage word of mouth: Encourage satisfied clients to refer others to you. Positive word-of-mouth recommendations can be incredibly powerful.
  • Create informative content: Share tips and insights on home staging through a blog or videos, establishing yourself as an expert in the field.

Once you've established your home staging business and gained some experience, expanding your reach can lead to new opportunities and greater profits. Consider diversifying your services and exploring new markets to keep your business growing. Here are some strategies to help you expand effectively:

  • Network with Real Estate Agents: Build relationships with more agents to become their go-to stager for listings.
  • Offer Additional Services: Include interior design consultations, furniture rental, or professional photography to complement your staging.
  • Target Commercial Spaces: Branch out into staging office spaces, hotels, or other commercial properties.
  • Expand Geographically: Look into staging homes in neighboring towns or cities to widen your client base.
  • Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to showcase your work and attract new clients.
  • Invest in Marketing: Consider paid advertising or SEO to increase your online presence and reach more potential customers.
  • Collaborate with Home Builders: Offer staging for model homes to create captivating showcases for new developments.
  • Hire Additional Staff: As demand grows, bring on more stagers or assistants to manage the increased workload.
  • Stay Educated: Keep up with industry trends and education to offer the most current and appealing staging options.
  • Business Ideas
  • Registered Agents

How to Start a Home Staging Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 21, 2024

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The home staging industry is on the up and up with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% estimated between now and 2025. This could bring the market to an evaluation of $13.5 billion by 2025, making it a good time to get involved.

home staging business plan pdf

With the real estate market remaining strong, demand for home staging services to help properties sell faster and for more money continues to rise. This presents a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in starting a home staging business and capturing a share of this expanding market.

From establishing relationships with real estate agents to acquiring furniture and decor inventory, launching a successful home staging company requires careful planning and execution. This guide will walk you through how to start a home staging business. Topics include marketing, registering an EIN, designing a website, sourcing equipment, and more.

1. Conduct Home Staging Market Research

Market research is an important part of beginning a successful home staging business. Research offers insight into your target market, local market saturation, trends in home staging company services, and more.

home staging business plan pdf

Some details you’ll learn through market research in the real estate industry include:

  • Several factors have driven the rise in demand for home staging services.
  • Research from the National Association of Realtors shows that staged homes sell faster and for more money – typically 1-3% above non-staged homes.
  • With the US housing market remaining strong, homeowners are increasingly turning to stagers to help maximize sale prices.
  • The target customers for home staging services are residential real estate sellers.
  • Real estate agents are also an important source of referrals and often recommend stagers to their seller clients.
  • From a geographic perspective, California accounts for the largest share of the US staging market at 16%, followed by Texas, New York, and Florida.
  • Major metro areas like Los Angeles, New York City, and Chicago are prime staging markets.
  • Suburban areas in high-income regions also present opportunities.
  • The home staging industry is highly fragmented, with over 10,000 home staging businesses operating nationwide.
  • Most companies are small independents, creating ample room for new entrants.
  • Key competitive factors include reputation, service quality, real estate connections, and access to furniture/decor inventory.

Overall, the outlook for home staging remains positive. Continued home price appreciation and low housing inventory should sustain demand. As more home sellers recognize staging as an investment rather than an expense, market penetration can increase.

2. Analyze the Competition

When starting a home staging business, it’s critical to research your competitors, both local brick-and-mortar firms and larger national players.

Some ways to better analyze competitors in the home staging projects sector include:

  • To analyze local small business owners and competitors, search online directories like YellowPages and Yelp .
  • Make a list of businesses operating in your area.
  • Visit their websites and social media pages to gather intel on services offered, pricing, portfolio, years in business, and client testimonials.
  • Drive by competitors’ offices. Note their signage and marketing. See if you can find any press mentions or awards.
  • Ask real estate agents who they refer clients to most and why.
  • Nationally, the top home staging chains are Staged Homes and Home Staging Resource .
  • Research their service models, inventory resources, and technology platforms.
  • Monitoring online reviews for local and national competitors can provide useful feedback on service pros and cons.
  • You can use sites like ReviewTrackers to track competitors’ reviews over time.
  • Analyzing both current online presence and potential areas for improvement is also key.
  • Search on Google for local stagers’ names, company names, and relevant keywords.
  • Look for opportunities to improve page optimization, content, visuals, and integration with platforms like social media and aggregators like Zillow.

By thoroughly evaluating the competitive landscape, you can make informed decisions about how to position your staging services for success.

3. Costs to Start a Home Staging Business

Starting a home staging business requires significant upfront investment to get up and running. There are also ongoing expenses to consider as you start your own home staging business.

home staging business plan pdf

Start-up Costs

  • Incorporation fees to establish a legal business entity like an LLC run $50-$500 depending on the state.
  • Basic office equipment like a computer, software, phone, printer, and supplies will likely cost around $3,000 to $5,000.
  • A company website built by professional designers averages $5,000-$15,000.
  • Initial inventory of furniture, decor, lighting, artwork, and accessories is one of the biggest start-up investments, averaging $20,000-$50,000 to outfit multiple model home spaces.
  • A cargo van for transporting inventory and supplies runs $25,000-$35,000 new. Used vans lower costs.
  • Home staging training and certification courses range from $500 for online self-study to $3,000+ for multi-day hands-on workshops.
  • Marketing and advertising to promote a new staging business can easily cost $5,000-$10,000 for items like website SEO, print materials, and online ads.
  • Optional costs like commercial liability insurance, hiring an accountant, and securing warehouse space for inventory will increase initial outlays.
  • Most experts recommend having a start-up operating budget of at least $75,000 when launching a home staging business, potentially more in higher-cost areas.

Ongoing Costs

  • Rent and utilities for office and storage space often run $2,000-$5,000 per month depending on location and size.
  • Insurance policies including general liability, commercial auto, workers comp, etc. cost $1,500-$5,000 annually.
  • Vehicle costs like gas, maintenance, and parking add up to around $5,000 per year.
  • Inventory maintenance and replacement averages $10,000-$15,000 annually as items wear out or go missing.
  • Marketing expenses can run $500-$1,500+ per month for website hosting, SEO, advertising, networking events, etc.
  • Accounting and legal support may cost $5,000+ annually for small businesses.
  • Salaries for any employees like stagers, assistants, and warehouse staff contribute significant overhead.
  • Miscellaneous ongoing supplies, technology, training, and other small business expenses can reach $5,000-$10,000 per year.

Budgeting approximately $10,000-$15,000 per month for total overhead is reasonable when operating an established home staging business. Keeping costs lean initially allows room for expansion. With thorough planning and control of expenses, a home staging venture can generate solid profits.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When starting a home staging business, choosing the right legal structure is key. The four main options each have pros and cons to weigh:

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest as you operate under your name without forming a separate entity. However, you assume unlimited personal liability for debts and legal claims, which poses risks given home staging activities like transporting heavy furniture, working inside clients’ homes, etc. Sole proprietor income is also taxed at the owner’s rate.

Partnership

Forming a general partnership allows multiple owners to share operational and financial responsibilities. But each partner is also personally liable for the actions of the other partners and the partnership itself. Income passes through to partners to include on personal tax returns. Partnership disputes can also lead to legal challenges.

Corporation

A corporation provides limited liability protection as shareholders are not typically responsible for corporate debts and liabilities. Corporations can raise investment capital by issuing stock. However, corporations require substantial recordkeeping and face double taxation on profits. The formality makes them better suited for large enterprises.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

For most home staging businesses, a limited liability company (LLC) offers the best of both worlds. LLCs limit owners’ liability while allowing pass-through taxation like a partnership or sole proprietorship. LLCs are relatively easy to establish and operate but provide credibility with clients. Ownership is flexible, enabling you to bring on investors or employees.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

One of the key legal steps for starting a home staging business is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. An EIN acts like a social security number for your business entity and is required for opening business bank accounts, paying employees, filing taxes, and more.

The good news is applying for an EIN is quick and easy through the IRS website . The online EIN assistant will guide you through the short application process. You’ll need to provide basic information about your LLC such as name and address. The only document required is an SSN or ITIN for the principal owner.

Once submitted, you’ll instantly receive your EIN at no cost. The whole process usually takes under 10 minutes. Make sure to keep your EIN documentation secure as you would any sensitive identifying information.

Registering for state and local sales tax requirements is also crucial. As a home staging service provider, you may need to collect and remit sales tax in the states where you operate. Requirements vary, so consult your state’s Department of Revenue website for specifics.

The sales tax registration process is similar to the EIN application–you’ll submit basic business information and details on your operations. Fees are generally minimal. Once registered, you’ll receive a Sales Tax ID Number and can integrate simple sales tax collection into your staging invoices and payments.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Careful accounting is crucial for home staging businesses to track revenues and expenses, maintain compliance, and make smart financial decisions. Some ways to enhance accounting in your home staging business include:

Accounting Software

QuickBooks seamlessly syncs with bank accounts to import transactions and receipts. It generates invoices, processes payments, and tracks payables/receivables. Features like automated categorization of purchases can save loads of time on data entry. Robust reporting provides insights on profitability, sales trends, budget variances, and more.

Hire an Accountant

While programs like Quickbooks simplify accounting, most home staging business owners still benefit from partnering with an accountant. Services an accountant provides may include:

  • Bookkeeping – recording income and expenses, reconciling accounts, processing payroll
  • Tax compliance – sales tax filings, quarterly estimated payments, annual tax return prep
  • Auditing – reviewing records to identify any errors or issues
  • Advisory – analyzing financial reports to recommend tax or cost-saving strategies

Accountants charge around $100-$200 per hour, with many small businesses needing 5-10 hours of monthly services. Come tax time, preparation fees often run $1,000+. But this expert guidance prevents stressful tax situations down the road.

Open a Business Bank Account

Keeping business and personal finances completely separate is also key. Have a dedicated business checking account and credit card solely for staging company purposes. Never co-mingle funds.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Applying for a small business credit card provides helpful tracking of expenses. Issuers will review your credit along with business factors like revenues to determine credit limits. Carrying a small balance and making payments builds a business credit history.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Before welcoming your first home staging clients, it’s crucial to ensure your business has secured all required federal, state, and local licenses and permits. Find federal license information through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers a local search tool for state and city requirements.

Nearly all municipalities require any business operating within their jurisdiction to obtain a general business license, which runs $50-$100 annually. This verifies your staging company is registered and authorized to provide services locally. The application process is straightforward – provide your business name, address, and ownership details.

If you plan to purchase wholesale inventory like furniture and decor items for staging use, a state seller’s permit is likely required. This allows you to make tax-free purchases intended for resale to avoid double taxation. Seller permits are obtained through your state revenue department.

Since stagers haul inventory and stage items between storage, homes, and warehouses, a transport permit proves you have the authority to transport goods commercially. Road restrictions, safety protocols, and insurance requirements come into play. Expect to pay $100-$500 depending on your state.

Long-term storage units often house excess inventory until needed for staging. Be sure to inform the storage facility that you are using the unit commercially, which may require a permit for compliance. Fees vary by municipality.

Double-check additional needs like fire safety permits for any warehouse space or liability insurance mandates. Also, research zoning regulations on running home-based businesses from a residential property if applicable.

8. Get Business Insurance

Given the physical nature of home staging activities, having proper business insurance coverage is strongly recommended to protect against potential liabilities. Without adequate policies, a single incident could spell financial disaster for your staging company.

For example, an employee could damage a client’s home while moving furniture and your business would be responsible for expensive repairs. Or a staged home could be burglarized and you’d need to replace stolen inventory and valuables. Another risk is a warehouse worker being injured on the job, opening you up to medical and legal claims.

The good news is getting insured is fairly straightforward. Start by checking requirements – some municipalities mandate minimum business liability coverage. Next, research policy options – general liability, commercial property, commercial auto, workers’ comp, etc. An insurance broker can assess your specific risks and recommend cost-effective packages.

Once you’ve selected coverages, you’ll fill out applications providing details on your business operations, assets, employees, and clients. Coverage can often be bound same-day. Expect to budget approximately $1,000-$5,000 annually depending on your needs.

9. Create an Office Space

Having a professional office space lends credibility and provides a centralized hub for home staging operations. An office allows meeting with clients, coordinating with employees, storing supplies, and handling administrative tasks. While a staging business can be run virtually, a physical office has benefits.

Home Office

A spare room converted to a home office offers convenience and low overhead. With some basic furniture and supplies, you can create a functional workspace for $1,000-$2,000. However, conducting business from home risks distractions and prohibits employee meetings.

Coworking Office

Coworking spaces like WeWork provide amenities-rich, flexible offices for $300-$800 per month. You gain a business address, meeting rooms, WiFi, printing, and community networking without major upfront costs. But space is limited.

Retail Office

Short-term retail space enables displaying inventory in a small store or showroom for clients to browse. Expect monthly rent of $1,000-$5,000 depending on location and size. Hefty build-out and staffing costs make this option pricey.

Commercial Office

For established staging firms, leasing dedicated commercial office space is ideal for conducting daily operations. While 12-month leases and extensive build-outs run $5,000-$15,000+ monthly, the space is truly customized to your needs.

10. Source Your Equipment

A sizable upfront investment in furniture, decor, and equipment is required when launching a home staging business. Savvy sourcing can help contain costs. The four main options are buying new, buying used, renting, and leasing.

New furniture and accessories can be purchased through home decor retailers like IKEA , Crate & Barrel , and Pottery Barn . Inventory is abundant and trends aligned but prices are highest. Watch for sales and clearance. Big box stores like Target and Walmart offer lower-cost furnishings.

Gently used inventory often provides the most value. Scour local thrift stores and consignment shops for unique vintage finds perfect for staging. Estate sales and auctions feature home goods priced to sell. Facebook Marketplace , Craigslist , OfferUp , and Nextdoor connect with sellers clearing out quality used furnishings locally.

Renting inventory as needed using sites like Fully allows flexibility versus upfront purchasing. However, rental fees add up over multiple stagings. Delivery/pickup logistics must also be coordinated.

Leasing furniture and accessories from companies like Stage Right and Staging Studio enables access to broad professional inventory without acquisition costs. But monthly leasing fees still apply. Offering a leasing option to clients can be a value-add.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Developing a strong brand identity helps home staging businesses stand out and attract clients in a crowded marketplace. Your brand encompasses your logo, messaging, visual style, and overall image. Investing in core brand assets gets your staging business noticed and remembered.

Get a Business Phone Number

Start by purchasing a dedicated business phone line through providers like RingCentral . This gives your company a professional presence when fielding calls from prospective clients.

Design a Logo

Create a custom logo and complementary brand assets with services like Looka that are designed for free when you sign up. Your logo should reflect your staging aesthetic – creative, elegant, and contemporary. Brand colors, fonts, and graphic elements will carry across your website, marketing materials, proposals, and more.

Print Business Cards

Business cards from Vistaprint are a must when meeting realtors, attending open houses, networking at events, etc. Always have cards on hand to introduce your staging services. Office signage and vehicle lettering from Vistaprint build visibility.

Buy a Domain Name

Secure a domain name that aligns with your brand for your staging website. Use keywords like “home” and your location while checking availability at registrars like Namecheap .

Design a Website

You can easily build DIY sites through user-friendly website builders like Wix or hire web developers on marketplaces like Fiverr for custom designs. Your site is a vital digital showcase and lead-generation tool.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Joining local home staging associations, attending industry meetups, and connecting with Facebook communities are all smart ways for new stagers to build their knowledge, skills, and professional network.

Local Associations

Seek out organizations like the Staging and Redesign Foundation that offer training programs and networking locally. Memberships start around $100/year. Trade groups like the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP) provide benefits like certification courses and business listings for members.

Local Meetups

Attend relevant meetup groups found through sites like Meetup to connect in person with fellow stagers and real estate pros. Look for events on topics like home or estate sales , interior design , DIY projects, and more. Bring business cards and be ready to share your services.

Facebook Groups

Facebook hosts several large home staging-focused groups that provide value through discussions, advice, job postings, and marketing tips:

  • Home Staging Professionals
  • Home Staging And Design

Leverage the experience within these communities by searching past threads for insights before posting questions. Share your tips and successes as well.

13. How to Market a Home Staging Business

Implementing ongoing marketing is essential for home staging businesses to continually attract new clients and grow revenue. While referral marketing should be your top priority, integrating diverse tactics expands your reach and visibility.

home staging business plan pdf

Personal Networking

Leveraging your network and getting customer referrals will drive the most conversions since happy clients validate your services to their connections. Offer referral rewards, highlight testimonials, and ask satisfied customers to review your business online to help spur shares and endorsements.

Digital Marketing

Digital marketing opens up lead generation opportunities:

  • Run Google Ads campaigns optimized for searches like “home stager near me” to get found locally.
  • Sponsor social media posts to targeted homeowners and real estate agents on Facebook and Instagram.
  • Start a YouTube channel creating home staging tips videos to build authority.
  • Guest posts on interior design blogs to gain backlinks and exposure to design lovers.
  • Send email newsletters with staging tips and company updates to nurture leads.
  • Create an affiliate program rewarding referrals from relevant blogs and influencers.

Traditional Marketing

More traditional tactics also help cover marketing bases:

  • Print full-color flyers and mail marketing pieces to distribute locally.
  • Advertise in real estate publications and local home & garden magazines.
  • Sponsor booths at home shows and workshops to make in-person connections.
  • Run radio spots on local stations describing your services.
  • Participate in open houses to hand out business cards and meet potential clients.
  • Host networking events at your staged model home to showcase your talents.
  • Partner with moving companies, painters, and landscapers for cross-promotions.

Casting a wide net across digital platforms and traditional channels ensures your marketing reaches both online and offline audiences. Track ROI to double down on what works best long-term. Through multi-channel outreach, home staging pros can keep new business flowing in.

14. Focus on the Customer

Providing exceptional customer service is crucial for home stagers to keep clients happy and gain referrals for future business. Given most new clients come from word of mouth, ensuring each homeowner has a stellar experience is a priority.

  • This starts with open communication throughout the staging process.
  • Set clear expectations upfront and keep homeowners updated on timelines and deliveries.
  • Listen to their goals and vision for the space.
  • Offer decor and layout recommendations tailored specifically to the home and target buyers.
  • Execute stagings with care and professionalism.
  • Treat each home respectfully, avoiding any damage or disruption.
  • Work diligently to transform spaces on schedule. Follow up after staging to get feedback and make any adjustments needed.
  • Exceeding expectations and delivering peace of mind builds lasting relationships with sellers.
  • Satisfied clients then eagerly refer family, friends, and real estate agents.
  • Online reviews also boost credibility and rankings for prospects.

By providing personalized, thoughtful service at each step, home stagers reinforce their attentiveness and skill. This builds a loyal client base that organically markets the business through word-of-mouth referrals. The referral engine from great customer service becomes a top driver of growth and sustainability.

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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.

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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Home Staging Business Plan Sample

Published Oct.02, 2018

Updated Sep.14, 2024

By: Noor Muhammad

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Home Staging Business Plan Sample

Table of Content

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 busines 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.

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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

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COMMENTS

  1. Home Staging Business Plan Template & Guide [Updated 2024]

    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. We will then go through a home staging ...

  2. Home Staging Business Plan Template (2024)

    Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000. Marketing costs: $10,000. Working capital: $10,000. Easily complete your Home Staging business plan! Download the Home Staging business plan template (including a customizable financial model) to your computer here <-.

  3. 13 Steps to Starting a Home Staging Business

    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.

  4. 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

  5. 2024 Home Staging Business Plan Example & Template

    Maria Dante Studio specializes in luxury home staging and interior design services. They offer personalized design consultations, furniture rental, and styling services. Their price points are premium, starting at $1,000 for basic consultations and going up to $10,000 for full home staging and design projects.

  6. What's in a Home Staging Business Plan?

    Current and planned team. 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.

  7. How to Make a Home Staging Business Plan

    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 ...

  8. PDF Start & Run a Home Staging Business

    iv Start & run a home staging business 1.7 Forecasts and projections 13 2. Revisiting Your Business Plan 13 3arket Research M 16 1. Researching the Competition 16 1.1 Your competitors as collaborators 17 2. Researching Your Target Markets 17 2.1 Home sellers 18 2.2 Realtors 21 2.3 Home builders 21 4egal Business Requirements L 23 1.

  9. 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.

  10. How to Start a Home Staging Business: A ...

    Step 1: Research the Home Staging Industry. Understand the current landscape of the home staging industry. Identify key players, competitors, challenges, and opportunities. Step 2: Develop a Business Plan. Create a comprehensive business plan for your home staging business.

  11. Home Staging Business: How to Start, Run and Maintain

    1. Research and Plan. The first step to starting your home staging business is researching the market and preparing a business plan. Researching the market involves understanding demand and the different types of neighborhoods, potential customers, competitors, etc.

  12. Home Staging Business Plan [Sample Template for 2022]

    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.

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    You may also need a home-based occupational license if you are running a home staging business from your residence. Additionally, you may need to get a certificate of occupancy or zoning permit if you are using outside locations for staging. 6. Open a business bank account and secure funding as needed.

  14. How to Start a Home Staging Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

    Make a list of businesses operating in your area. Visit their websites and social media pages to gather intel on services offered, pricing, portfolio, years in business, and client testimonials. Drive by competitors' offices. Note their signage and marketing. See if you can find any press mentions or awards.

  15. 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.

  16. How to Start a Home Staging Business

    Once you have registered your business name and have an EIN, you can open a new business bank account. Having a separate bank account for your home staging service can help keep your business transactions and income separate from your personal accounts. This can help simplify the day-to-day operations of running your business.

  17. PDF Checklist for Starting a Home Staging Business

    Home Staging Business Business Planning Write a business plan Define target market Analyze local competition Set pricing structure ... Set up accounting software Plan budget for inventory Establish billing system Inventory Acquisition Purchase staging furniture Invest in quality decor items Secure storage space Manage inventory list Marketing ...

  18. Home Staging Business Plan Sample

    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.