What Sells Better Vacant Or Occupied Homes?

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes that incorporate staging, regardless of whether they are occupied or vacant, tend to sell faster and for a higher price than homes that are not staged. In a 2020 NAR survey, 49% of buyers' agents reported that staging a home made it easier for the buyer to visualize the property as their future home. In the same survey, 32% of sellers' agents reported that staging increased the dollar value offered between 1% and 5% compared to homes that were not staged.

The NAR also found that the length of time a home is on the market can vary based on whether it is occupied or vacant. In their 2020 Profile of Home Staging, they found that homes that were occupied when they were listed took an average of 59 days to sell, while homes that were vacant took an average of 99 days to sell.

It's important to note that the condition and location of a property also play a significant role in how quickly and for how much it will sell. A well-maintained and updated home in a desirable location will sell faster and for more money, regardless of whether it is occupied or vacant and staging in a vacant home will always show better than a home that is completely empty.

While both occupied and vacant homes have their advantages and disadvantages, the best type of home to sell will depend on the specific property and the target market. The most important factor for a successful sale is ensuring the home is in good condition, properly staged, and is “show ready”.

Want to learn if your home is “show ready”? Contact me today for a no obligation consultation. Work with a top agent in the Portland Metro for a total commission of 3.5%. I offer full service representation including cancel anytime policy, direct service providers list, increased marketing exposure on over 10,000+ websites, and, of course, professional photography. Reach out to see how I can help you meet your goals with my highly competitive commission of 3.5% total.