📋What You'll Learn
- Why virtual staging matters for modern agents
- What virtual staging is and how it works
- MLS compliance rules and requirements
- Popular staging styles that sell homes
- Cost comparison: virtual vs physical staging
- How to get started with virtual staging
Introduction: Why Virtual Staging Matters
You've just listed a vacant home. The photos are clean but lifeless, and buyers can't quite imagine themselves living there. Traditional staging is effective, but it's expensive (often $2,000+ per listing) and takes days to coordinate. That's where virtual staging comes in — a fast, affordable way to bring empty rooms to life online.
What Is Virtual Staging?
Virtual staging uses photo editing software (or AI) to add realistic furniture and décor into property photos. Instead of moving sofas and artwork into a space, you create them digitally — giving buyers a clear vision of how the property could look once furnished.
Why Agents Use Virtual Staging
- Stand out online: Most buyers start their search on Zillow, Redfin, or Realtor.com. Staged photos grab attention.
- Save money: At $29/month for software vs thousands for physical staging, the math is simple.
- Faster turnaround: Minutes, not weeks.
- Flexibility: Try different styles (Scandinavian, Modern, Boho) to appeal to target buyers.
MLS Compliance: What You Need to Know
The most common agent question is: "Will I get in trouble for using virtual staging?" According to MLS rules like those from Stellar MLS, virtual staging is allowed, but with restrictions:
✅ You may add or replace furniture, artwork, or décor.
✅ You must disclose it clearly (e.g. label photos as "Virtually Staged").
❌ You cannot change permanent fixtures or remove flaws (like damaged flooring).
❌ You cannot misrepresent the property (e.g. adding a false ocean view).
❌ Exterior staging is limited to unattached furniture only.
NAR also emphasizes that agents must present a true picture of the property and use staging to enhance marketing — not mislead buyers.
Virtual Staging Styles That Sell
Different buyers connect with different aesthetics. Some popular styles include:
- Scandinavian: Minimal, light, airy.
- Modern Farmhouse: Cozy, family-friendly.
- Bohemian: Relaxed, eclectic, colorful.
- Contemporary: Sleek and urban.
Showcasing a home in a style that fits its market can spark more interest and help buyers imagine living there.
Virtual Staging vs Physical Staging
Here's how virtual and physical staging compare:
- Cost: Physical staging $2,000+ per listing vs Virtual staging $29/month (100 images)
- Time: Physical staging takes days/weeks vs Virtual staging takes minutes
- Flexibility: Physical staging limited to rented furniture vs Virtual staging offers multiple styles instantly
- Compliance Risk: Physical staging has none vs Virtual staging requires disclosure (MLS rules)
Virtual staging isn't always a total replacement — luxury listings or in-person showings may still benefit from physical staging. But for most agents, it's the most efficient way to market homes online.
How to Get Started with Virtual Staging
- Take high-quality listing photos (good lighting, wide angles).
- Upload them into a staging platform.
- Select a style or palette.
- Download MLS-ready images (with compliance safeguards in place).
The Bottom Line
Virtual staging is no longer just a novelty — it's becoming a standard tool for competitive agents. When done properly, it's affordable, MLS-compliant, and helps listings shine online.
👉 Ready to try it for yourself? Join the RoomsThatSell waitlist today and get 10 free staged images at launch.
About Jordan Sinclair
Jordan is a PhD student in computer science at the University of Denver, specializing in AI and machine learning. She is also the founder of RoomsThatSell, a company that helps real estate agents sell their properties faster using AI and machine learning.