Does Home Staging Really Add Value? (w/ Rachel Mitchell)

Content

Home staging is about much more than making a property look attractive. It is a marketing strategy designed to improve listing photos, showcase functionality and help buyers emotionally connect with a home.

In Episode 403 of The Real Estate Podcast, Steve Cecchetto sits down with Rachel Mitchell, owner of Straightened Spaces and one of KT’s go-to home stagers. They discuss the most common mistakes sellers make, the impact of paint, lighting and decluttering, why buyers form opinions within seconds and how staging can influence the perceived value of a property.

Rachel also shares how she transitioned from corporate marketing into home staging, the story of her first 4,000-square-foot project and some of the unexpected challenges that happen behind the scenes.

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0:00 Intro
1:52 Meet Rachel Mitchell from Straightened Spaces
5:03 Staging is marketing—not just decorating
7:00 Why presentation matters in today’s market
11:47 The most common staging mistake #1: Painting
13:32 The most common staging mistake #2: Lighting
17:16 Decluttering and budget-friendly improvements
18:27 Staging for photos is critical
20:39 Closets, storage and the small details buyers notice
22:52 How to prepare for the staging process (sellers and their agents)
27:55 When do you NOT stage?
31:34 Should you keep up with the trend when staging?
33:50 Rachel’s wildest staging story
36:12 The behind-the-scenes reality of growing a staging business
37:08 Snowstorms, stuck trucks and refusing to cancel
38:18 Outro/recap

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Want more real estate podcast discussions?

Watch it HERE
Listen to it HERE

Catch clips and highlights of the show HERE

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In 2011, Ariel Kormendy and Adrian Trott formed The Kormendy Trott Team, now often referred to as KT (thanks to our logo!). The foundation of KT is built on providing unmatched value and attention to detail in everything we do. From our ever-expanding, comprehensive list of exclusive services to our expertly trained team, you will receive the highest level of care throughout your entire real estate journey.

Originally a team of two in Milton, Ontario, the KT Team has grown into a large team of exceptional REALTORS®, a client-care department, and now includes KT Media, KT Commercial, and our sister company, Renti, allowing us to provide our clients with a complete lineup of genuine, professional, and proven services across Halton Region, Peel Region and the surrounding Regions within the Greater Toronto Area.

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COMMENTS

HOSTS

Chris Behie

After buying and selling several homes with The KT Team, Chris knew he had to be part of it. A top performer at Toyota Canada for years, he shifted gears to real estate and hasn’t looked back. Known for his sharp communication, negotiation skills, and down-to-earth approach, Chris helps clients navigate the buying and selling process with confidence—especially families juggling busy home lives like his own. When he’s not closing deals, you’ll find him in Milton chasing adventures (and his two boys).

Steve Bruman

Steve Bruman is a Milton real estate agent known for his standout service, quirky humour, and endless patience—especially with first-time buyers and seniors. ASA-certified and a proud empty-nester, Steve brings energy, experience, and a personal touch to every real estate journey.

Robin Dasilva

Robin Dasilva is a trusted REALTOR® serving Milton and the surrounding area. Known for clear communication and steady guidance, she helps clients navigate every stage of the buying and selling process with confidence. Through her writing, Robin also shares practical insights and real-world experience to help homeowners make informed real estate decisions.
Steve Cecchetto

Steve Cecchetto

Steve Cecchetto, a licensed Real Estate Broker with The KT Team at Century 21 Miller, brings extensive experience in business, sales, marketing, and management from the Biopharmaceutical industry to real estate. Inspired by a conversation with Adrian Trott, Steve transitioned from a demanding corporate career to excel in real estate, raising the industry standard. When he’s not helping clients, Steve enjoys motorcycle rides, golf, and cheering for the Milton Menace, and enjoying a fire in his backyard. Reach out to Steve for all your real estate needs.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 905-299-5047

GUESTS

Rachel Mitchell

Rachel Mitchell

The owner of Straightened Spaces, a home staging and design company specializing in preparing homes for sale. As a mom of two and entrepreneur, she combines creativity, strategy, and a passion for functional design to help homeowners showcase their properties at their very best.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 416-988-3231

Open House Terms & Privacy Agreement

for KT Open Houses

  1. 1. Visitor Etiquette

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    KT Realty
    229–336 Bronte Street South
    Milton, ON L9T 7W6
    [email protected]
    1 (800) 617-0090