Staged to Sell? Here’s What They Don’t Want You to See

By JP Fluellen

JP became a licensed real estate agent in 2010 after being a real estate investor for 2 years. He’s been a top real estate agent at Coldwell Banker The Property Exchange and has recently started the Titan Real Estate Team at eXp Realty.

Staged homes are designed to impress. From the carefully placed furniture to the soft lighting and pleasant scents, every detail is chosen to make the space feel inviting. But after walking through countless homes, I’ve learned that a picture-perfect presentation doesn’t always tell the whole story. Some of the most significant issues buyers face are hidden behind these surface-level touches. If you’re considering making an offer on a staged home, here are three key things to watch out for.

Deceptive rugs. A stylish area rug might seem like a design choice, but in many cases, it’s doing more than just decorating the space. Rugs can be used to hide flooring problems such as water stains, damaged hardwood, or uneven surfaces. If you notice a rug placed in a high-traffic area or covering a large section of the room, don’t hesitate to lift it. It might feel uncomfortable in the moment, but checking underneath could reveal issues that will ultimately cost you. You’re not there to admire the staging—you’re there to protect your investment.

Masked odor. It’s normal for a home to have a light, clean scent, but if the smell is overwhelming or artificial, that should raise a red flag. Strong scents from candles, plug-ins, or air fresheners are often used to cover up unpleasant odors caused by mold, smoke, pets, or water damage. Instead of being distracted by the fragrance, take a closer look and ask questions. Walk through the house slowly and pay attention to closets, basements, and bathrooms where hidden smells tend to linger. A strong scent is not a sign of cleanliness—it’s a potential warning sign.

Misleading, well-staged homes. Staging is powerful because it pulls your attention to all the things the seller wants you to notice and away from what they don’t. A room with trendy art and well-placed furniture may be visually appealing, but it can also keep you from noticing chipped tile, old windows, or cracked baseboards. If furniture seems oddly placed or windows are always covered, ask yourself why. A closed-off room or a blind that never opens might be hiding damage. Look closely, move things around if necessary, and focus on the structure, not the setup.

Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make, and it’s easy to get caught up in how it looks. But what matters most is the condition of the property. Before you fall in love with the design, make sure you’re inspecting the details that truly matter. If you’re planning to buy soon and want a second set of eyes to help you look past the surface, feel free to call or text me at 307-772-1184 or email me at jp@titanreteam.com. I’d be happy to walk through the home with you and make sure nothing is overlooked.