Which of these most often leads to the highest sale price?

Home decluttering and staging clearly stood out. Most people believe it’s the top strategy for achieving the highest sale price. Why? Because staging and decluttering create environments where buyers can imagine themselves living. And when that emotional connection happens, it’s often more persuasive than any sales pitch—assuming, of course, there’s nothing fundamentally wrong with the property. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s helping buyers feel at home. And that feeling is hard to compete with.

That said, this is often easier said than done—especially for sellers still living in the home. Too many personal touches, strong scents, or bold décor styles can make it harder for buyers to picture the space as their own. Staging doesn't mean erasing personality—it means softening it enough to let a wide range of buyers connect.

What Most People Miss
Staging and decluttering are strategic tools. Even the most polished marketing campaign can fall flat if the home doesn’t show well in person. Strong scents, cluttered rooms, or overly personalized decor can create a disconnect, making it harder for buyers to visualize themselves living there.

And here's a double benefit: decluttering early also helps the seller. Getting a head start on packing and organizing doesn’t just lighten the emotional load—it creates mental and physical space for the next chapter. And that calm confidence can translate into better conversations, smoother showings, and a more prepared seller—one who’s ready to move forward the moment the right offer comes in.

Header image courtesy of Fernando Rodriguez. 9501 Collins Avenue #1, Surfside, FL. View property here.

^{Poll conducted across Fortune Christie’s social media platforms in 2025. Responses include buyers, sellers, and agents.}