Staging your home isn’t just about fluffing pillows and lighting candles. In today’s competitive Indiana real estate market, it can be the difference between a quick sale at full price or your home lingering on the market with price drops.
But what works in New York or L.A. may not fly in Carmel, Greenwood, or Fishers.
Here’s your Indiana-specific guide to home staging—what actually works here, what doesn’t, and how Talk to Annie Real Estate helps sellers maximize their home’s value.
What Works: Indiana-Proven Staging Strategies
1. Neutral, Not Boring
Hoosier buyers love clean, calm spaces—but that doesn’t mean lifeless beige.
✔️ Soft grays, creamy whites, or warm greige
✔️ Pops of earth tones (think: navy, green, warm wood)
✔️ Matte black or brushed gold accents
Local Tip: Avoid high-gloss finishes or overly trendy color palettes—they can turn off traditional Midwest buyers.
2. Furniture That Fits the Space
Indiana buyers are focused on functionality, especially families. Avoid oversized sectionals or outdated furniture.
✔️ Use staging pieces to define living areas
✔️ Add bar stools to showcase kitchen islands
✔️ Create cozy reading nooks or office spaces in flex rooms
Annie’s Team Tip: We work with local stagers who know how to appeal to buyers in your price range.
3. Bring the Outdoors In
Indiana homeowners value connection to nature—especially with our four-season climate.
✔️ Use natural textures (wicker, linen, soft wood)
✔️ Stage patios, porches, or fire pits with seasonal décor
✔️ Add fresh plants (snake plants or ferns work well)
Curb appeal matters year-round—don’t forget planters and a fresh doormat!
4. Sparkling Kitchens and Bathrooms
Buyers in Indiana won’t overlook grime—and they won’t pay top dollar if rooms feel dated.
✔️ Deep clean and declutter
✔️ Repaint cabinets or swap outdated hardware
✔️ Add light staging touches: hand towels, greenery, and neutral rugs
Skip fake fruit or overly stylized trays—go clean, not cliché.
5. Warm Lighting > Harsh Overhead
Switch out bright-white LED bulbs for soft, warm lighting. It flatters every room and helps your home feel cozy.
✔️ Layer lighting: overhead + lamps + natural light
✔️ Turn on lights for showings and open houses
❌ What Doesn’t Work in Indiana Homes
🚫 Overly Modern/Industrial Decor
Buyers here lean classic and cozy, not cold and edgy.
🚫 Empty Rooms
Vacant homes feel smaller and harder to imagine living in—especially in larger properties.
🚫 Strong Scents
Skip plug-ins or overpowering candles. Instead, go with clean, subtle scents like linen or citrus.
🚫 Personal Photos & Bold Art
These distract from the home and make it harder for buyers to imagine themselves there.
Sell Smarter with a Local Realtor Who Knows What Works
As a Central Indiana real estate expert, I don’t just list homes—I help you position your property to sell quickly and for top dollar
Photo Credits: Roger Starnes Sr
Sources:
National Association of Realtors – 2023 Home Staging Profile
Redfin – Does Home Staging Work?
