If you’re staging a home to sell, here’s some good news that might surprise you: home staging may be a tax deduction! While Sayde Mark Designs doesn’t offer tax advice (we’re more into sofas than spreadsheets), we’re here to point you in the right direction.

These sellable rooms are tax deductible too.
These sellable rooms are tax deductible too.

What You Should Know

According to the IRS Publication #523, certain selling costs related to the sale of your primary residence may be deductible. That potentially includes professional home staging services, photography, and even marketing expenses. The key? These costs must be directly related to preparing the home for sale.

“Home staging not only helps potential buyers imagine themselves in the space, it also highlights the home’s potential,” notes a Forbes article from the Forbes Real Estate Council. That impact could translate into a higher selling price—and possibly, tax deductions if done strategically.

Pro tip: Always confirm with your licensed tax professional to determine how this applies to your specific situation. Everyone’s financial picture is different — so personalized advice is a must!

Why It Matters

Real estate agents and sellers already know that staging helps homes sell faster and for more money. The same Forbes article reports that staged homes spend 73% less time on the market than non-staged homes. But if you could also write it off? That’s the cherry on top.

Get staging that not only sells but also a strategy that saves.

Here’s What to Do:

  • Keep all your staging invoices and receipts
  • Document how the staging improved your sale (think: before-and-after photos)
  • Ask your tax advisor to review IRS Publication #523

“The smartest business owners and sellers prepare for tax time before it arrives. Documentation and awareness are key,” says Ed Gines of Strategic CFOs. That same logic applies to real estate—good records can make a great difference.

What to Keep in Mind…

Staging is more than just an aesthetic boost—it’s a strategic step in the home-selling process that can influence both market appeal and financial outcomes. As IRS guidelines evolve, it’s worth asking your tax professional whether your staging investment might qualify as a deductible selling cost. Staying informed means sellers and real estate professionals can make smarter, more efficient choices at every stage of the listing journey.