Who pays for staging, the seller or the real estate agent?

Usually the seller pays for staging, since it is a cost of preparing the home for sale. However, arrangements vary. Some agents include a staging consultation as part of their services, and some cover part of the cost or offer staging as an added benefit to win a listing.

If your agent offers to pay for staging, ask whether it affects their commission or whether you would owe the cost if you change agents or take the home off the market. Get any agreement in writing.

When you hire a stager directly, the contract will be between you and the stager. Compare proposals, check references and look at photos of past work. Discuss your budget openly with your agent so you can spend money where it will help the most.