Staging Your Home for Success: How Laura Cooper Prepares Every Listing to Sell

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions aren’t just important, they are everything. With over 90% of buyers beginning their search online, the way your home looks in photos and during showings can dramatically influence how quickly it sells and the quality of offers you receive.


This is exactly why every listing I take includes full, complimentary professional staging. From furniture selection to décor, layout, lighting, and flow, I ensure your home is presented at its absolute best with no added cost or stress for you.


But staging isn’t just “nice to have.” It’s one of the most valuable and proven tools in real estate. Below are the powerful stats behind staging and how my service helps you maximize your home’s potential.


Why Staging Matters: The Numbers Speak for Themselves



1. Staged Homes Sell Up to 73% Faster

A study by the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) found that staged homes spend 73% less time on the market compared to unstaged properties.

A faster sale means:

  • Less time dealing with showings
  • Lower carrying costs
  • Fewer mortgage payments while you wait
  • A stronger position in negotiations

My staging service is designed precisely to create that “move-in-ready” feel buyers rush to act on.


2. Staging Can Increase a Home’s Value by 6–10% (and Up to 11%)

National and regional data consistently show that staging can increase a home’s perceived value and in many cases, its actual sale price.

According to real estate professionals:

  • 22% of agents believe staging adds 6–10% in value
  • Many report increases as high as 11%

That means a home listed at $1M could realistically see $60,000–$110,000 more in value simply because it was professionally staged.

This is why I include staging as part of my listing package. I want every seller to benefit from this advantage.


3. 81% of Buyers Find It Easier to Visualize a Staged Home as Their Future Space

Staging isn’t just about making things pretty, it's about helping buyers connect emotionally.

The National Association of Realtors® reports that:

  • 81% of buyers say staging makes it easier to imagine the property as their future home
  • Rooms appear larger
  • Function becomes clearer
  • The home feels “finished” and move-in ready

Since the average buyer only spends about 7 seconds forming their first impression, the emotional impact of staging cannot be overstated.


4. Staging Highlights Key Features Buyers Often Miss

A well-staged home draws attention to:

  • Architectural details
  • Natural light
  • Sight lines and flow
  • Updated finishes
  • Functional layout

This is especially important when over 90% of buyers first see your home online, staging ensures the home photographs beautifully and stands out in search results.


5. Staging Leads to Higher Quality Offers

A staged home signals:

  • Care
  • Pride of ownership
  • Move-in readiness
  • Good value

In turn, this encourages buyers to come in strong with their offers because they feel like they’re purchasing something elevated and well-maintained.

This often results in:

  • Fewer low-ball attempts
  • Competitive offers
  • Faster decision-making
  • Stronger negotiating position for you

How My Complimentary Staging Service Works

Because I stage every listing I take on, the process is seamless and stress-free for you.

Here’s what’s included:

✔ Full home staging consultation

I walk through the property and create a customized plan tailored to your home’s layout, condition, and buyer profile.

✔ Complete furniture + décor staging

From sofas to artwork to accent pieces, I bring in everything your home needs to shine.

✔ Enhancing flow, space, and lighting

Strategic layout changes make rooms feel larger and more functional.

✔ Cleaning, touch-ups, and aesthetic recommendations

I help guide you through small, impactful improvements that make a big difference.

✔ High-quality listing photography and video

Once staged, your home is captured in its best light literally.

✔ Zero extra cost, always included

You should never have to pay extra to make your home market-ready. It’s part of the full-service experience I provide.


The Result? Faster Sales. Higher Prices. Less Stress.

Staging isn’t just about looking good, it’s about:

  • Maximizing your return
  • Attracting the right buyers
  • Standing out in a competitive market
  • Creating an emotional connection
  • Selling faster and more profitably

And because I handle everything from start to finish, you get the benefit without the hassle.

If you're thinking of selling or even curious what your home could be worth after professional staging I’m here to help you prepare, present, and profit.


Love What You Do — and love how your home sells.

Maximizing Your Home’s Value: Renovations That Pay Off in Toronto & Durham Region

November 12, 2025
Boost your home’s value with high-return renovations. Discover the top kitchen, bathroom, and curb appeal upgrades that attract buyers in Toronto and Durham Region. When preparing to sell your home, knowing which renovations deliver the best return on investment is essential. Not every upgrade adds equal value—focusing on strategic improvements can make your property stand out in the competitive Toronto and Durham Region markets. Here are the home renovations that pay off: 1. Kitchen Upgrades: Modernize the Heart of Your Home The kitchen is one of the most influential spaces for buyers: Countertops & Cabinets: Replacing old countertops with quartz or granite and updating cabinet hardware gives a fresh, modern look. Appliances: Energy-efficient stainless steel appliances appeal to buyers and offer long-term savings. Lighting & Fixtures: Modern lighting enhances space and highlights design features. 2. Bathroom Improvements: Small Changes, Big Impact Bathrooms are another major selling point: Update Fixtures: Modern faucets and showerheads refresh the space. Vanity & Countertops: A sleek vanity creates a polished look. Tile & Grout: Clean, re-grouted tiles or updated flooring make older bathrooms feel brand new. 3. Curb Appeal Enhancements: First Impressions Matter Buyers start evaluating your home from the outside: Landscaping: Fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, and flowers improve perception. Front Door & Hardware: A new door or updated handle adds charm. Paint & Siding: Fresh paint or siding repairs signal a well-maintained home. 4. Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Appeal to Modern Buyers Sustainable features are increasingly important: Windows & Doors: Energy-efficient replacements reduce costs and increase comfort. Insulation: Updating attic or basement insulation improves energy efficiency. Smart Home Features: Thermostats, lighting, and security systems attract tech-savvy buyers. 5. Fresh Paint and Flooring: Simple Yet Effective Sometimes the simplest updates make the biggest difference: Paint: Neutral, light-colored walls make spaces feel larger and brighter. Flooring: Hardwood or well-maintained laminate/tile is highly appealing. Maximizing your home’s value doesn’t require a full-scale renovation. Strategic, high-impact upgrades in the kitchen, bathroom, curb appeal, and energy efficiency can attract more buyers and help you get the best price for your home. 📞 Ready to sell your home? Contact me, Laura Cooper, for expert advice on renovations that deliver the highest return and strategies to make your home irresistible to buyers.

Hidden Gems: Up-and-Coming Neighbourhoods in Durham Region

November 12, 2025
Discover the hidden gem neighbourhoods in Durham Region offering great value, community amenities, and growth potential for homebuyers and investors. Durham Region is one of Ontario’s fastest-growing areas, offering a mix of vibrant communities, natural beauty, and convenient access to Toronto. For homebuyers and investors, knowing which neighbourhoods are “up-and-coming” can make a huge difference in both lifestyle and long-term property value. Here’s a closer look at Durham Region’s hidden gem neighbourhoods that are gaining attention in 2025. 1. Bowmanville: Small-Town Charm with Big Potential Bowmanville has become increasingly popular for families and first-time buyers: Affordable Homes: Offers a mix of detached homes, townhouses, and new developments. Community Amenities: Parks, trails, schools, and local shops make it family-friendly. Future Growth: Proximity to Highway 401 and GO Transit expansion is attracting commuters. 2. Courtice: Rapid Growth and Modern Living Courtice is seeing a surge in development and new housing options: New Developments: Modern townhouses and subdivisions ideal for young families. Recreational Spaces: Trails, sports facilities, and community centers for active lifestyles. Commuter-Friendly: Quick access to Toronto via Highway 401. 3. Ajax: Vibrant Waterfront Community Ajax is a growing town with a unique combination of urban and waterfront living: Waterfront Living: Parks, beaches, and trails along Lake Ontario. Urban Amenities: Shopping centers, dining, and cultural events. Investment Potential: Renovations and new developments increasing property values. 4. Whitby: Perfect Blend of Tradition and Growth Whitby offers both historic charm and modern conveniences: Diverse Housing Options: From heritage homes to new builds. Strong Community: Schools, recreation facilities, and family-oriented neighbourhoods. Transportation: Whitby GO Station connects commuters to Toronto efficiently. Why Consider Up-and-Coming Neighbourhoods? Buying in a growing area can offer several advantages: Affordability: Early buyers often get more home for their money. Future Appreciation: As the area develops, property values tend to rise. Community Development: New shops, schools, and amenities enhance quality of life. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, moving up, or investing, Durham Region has neighbourhoods full of potential. Knowing where to look can help you secure a home that fits your lifestyle and grows in value over time.  📞 Want expert guidance on the best neighbourhoods in Durham Region? Contact me, Laura Cooper, to explore hidden gems and find the perfect community for you.

The Impact of Transit Expansion on Property Values in Scarborough

November 12, 2025
As Scarborough continues to transform, one of the most significant factors shaping its real estate market is transit expansion. With major infrastructure projects like the Scarborough Subway Extension and the Eglinton Crosstown LRT , the area is becoming increasingly connected - and that’s having a direct impact on property values, buyer demand, and investment potential. 1. Improved Connectivity = Higher Demand Easy access to public transit is one of the top priorities for homebuyers and renters alike. The upcoming Scarborough Subway Extension , which will extend Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) from Kennedy Station to Sheppard Avenue, will drastically reduce commute times and connect Scarborough to the rest of Toronto more efficiently. For homeowners near future stations such as Lawrence East, Scarborough Centre, and Sheppard & McCowan, this enhanced accessibility is already sparking buyer interest and driving up property prices. 2. New Opportunities for Investors Transit-oriented development often attracts a mix of residential, retail, and commercial growth. As the new transit lines move closer to completion, investors are seeing Scarborough as a strong opportunity for long-term appreciation. Condo projects near future subway and LRT routes - like those around Scarborough Town Centre and Eglinton East - are already in high demand. These areas are expected to experience significant redevelopment over the next decade, making them appealing to both first-time buyers and seasoned investors. 3. Rising Property Values Around Key Hubs Historically, homes located within walking distance of a transit stop have sold for more than comparable properties farther away. This trend is evident across the GTA - and Scarborough is no exception. Once the Scarborough Subway Extension and Eglinton Crosstown LRT are fully operational, neighbourhoods such as Woburn, Bendale, and Dorset Park are expected to see a steady rise in value, driven by improved transit access and urban renewal. 4. A Boost for Local Communities Beyond property values, these transit projects bring vibrancy to local communities. Improved transit encourages walkable neighbourhoods, attracts new businesses, and makes local amenities more accessible. This revitalization can enhance quality of life and make Scarborough an even more desirable place to call home. 5. What This Means for Buyers and Sellers For buyers , now is an excellent time to explore Scarborough neighbourhoods poised for growth before prices climb further. For sellers , proximity to future transit stations can be a major selling feature - one that should be highlighted in your marketing strategy. Transit expansion is transforming Scarborough from a commuter suburb into a connected, thriving urban hub. As these projects move forward, they’re unlocking tremendous real estate potential - and positioning Scarborough as one of Toronto’s most exciting areas for both living and investing. If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Scarborough and want to understand how upcoming transit changes could affect your property’s value, let’s connect! 📞 Call me today - I’d love to help you make your next move with confidence.
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