Laguna Beach, California, is synonymous with coastal luxury, artistic charm, and breathtaking ocean views. As of March 2025, the local real estate market reflects a buyer’s paradise, with a median home sale price of $3.1 million and an inventory of 238 homes—up 19.4% from late 2024. Homes are lingering on the market longer, averaging 100 days, giving buyers more options and leverage. For sellers, this shift means standing out is more critical than ever. Staging your Laguna Beach property effectively can be the difference between a quick sale at top dollar and a listing that languishes. In this guide, we’ll explore the top staging tips to maximize your property’s appeal, tapping into the unique vibe of this coastal gem to attract discerning buyers in 2025.
Why Staging Matters in Laguna Beach
In a market where luxury is the norm, staging isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about creating an emotional connection. Buyers in Laguna Beach aren’t just purchasing a house; they’re investing in a lifestyle of beachside bliss, artistic inspiration, and upscale living. Professional staging can increase your sale price by 5–20%, according to industry studies, and in a high-value area like this, that could mean hundreds of thousands of dollars. With homes taking longer to sell, a well-staged property can cut days on market and signal to buyers that your home is move-in ready. Let’s dive into the top tips to make your Laguna Beach listing irresistible.
1. Embrace the Coastal Aesthetic
Laguna Beach’s identity is tied to its oceanfront charm, so lean into that vibe. Buyers here expect a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living with a relaxed yet sophisticated feel.
- How to Do It: Use a neutral palette inspired by the beach—think sandy beiges, soft whites, and muted blues. Add texture with natural materials like linen curtains, jute rugs, or driftwood accents. Avoid over-the-top nautical themes (no anchor overload!), but subtle nods like seashell decor or coastal artwork can tie it together.
- Pro Tip: Highlight ocean views if you have them. Clear window treatments and position furniture to frame the vista—it’s a top selling point.
2. Declutter and Depersonalize
Buyers need to envision themselves in your space, not feel like they’re intruding on yours. A cluttered or overly personal home can distract from its potential.
- How to Do It: Remove family photos, quirky collectibles, and excess furniture. Aim for a minimalist look that showcases the home’s architecture—those vaulted ceilings or hardwood floors deserve to shine. Keep countertops clear except for a few high-end touches, like a vase of fresh eucalyptus or a sleek coffee table book about Laguna’s art scene.
- Pro Tip: Rent a storage unit for excess items. In a buyer’s market, a clean slate can make your home feel larger and more inviting.
3. Maximize Curb Appeal
First impressions are everything, especially in Laguna Beach, where lush greenery and charming facades set the tone. A well-groomed exterior signals that the home is cared for inside and out.
- How to Do It: Trim overgrown shrubs, plant native flowers like California poppies or succulents, and power-wash walkways. Add a modern touch with a freshly painted front door in a bold yet tasteful color (think navy or charcoal). If your property has a courtyard or driveway, stage it with potted plants or a small bistro set.
- Pro Tip: Twilight photos of your exterior—showcasing outdoor lighting and that golden-hour glow—can elevate your listing online.
4. Highlight Outdoor Living Spaces
Laguna Beach buyers crave outdoor areas for entertaining or soaking in the coastal climate. Whether it’s a deck, patio, or balcony, make these spaces a focal point.
- How to Do It: Stage with stylish outdoor furniture—a sectional with plush cushions, a dining table, or a fire pit. Add throw pillows in weather-resistant fabrics and string lights for ambiance. If you’ve got an ocean view, angle seating to maximize it. For smaller spaces, a chic bistro table and chairs can work wonders.
- Pro Tip: Include a high-end touch like a built-in grill or a portable bar cart to hint at the lifestyle buyers can enjoy.
5. Optimize Natural Light
Laguna Beach’s sunny disposition is a selling point—let it shine through your home. Bright, airy spaces feel larger and more welcoming.
- How to Do It: Ditch heavy drapes for sheer curtains or leave windows bare if privacy allows. Clean windows inside and out to remove smudges. Add mirrors strategically to bounce light around, especially in smaller rooms or hallways.
- Pro Tip: Stage during the day for photos, and use warm-toned bulbs (2700K–3000K) for evening showings to mimic that golden coastal glow.
6. Stage Key Rooms with Purpose
Buyers focus on the kitchen, living room, and primary bedroom. Stage these areas to reflect luxury and functionality tailored to Laguna Beach’s upscale market.
- Kitchen: Clear counters but add a bowl of citrus (a nod to California’s bounty) or a high-end coffee maker. Highlight upgrades like quartz countertops or a wine fridge if you have them.
- Living Room: Arrange furniture for conversation—think a cozy sectional facing a fireplace or view. Add a large piece of local art to tie in the area’s creative heritage.
- Primary Bedroom: Use crisp white bedding with pops of color in pillows or a throw. Stage a small sitting area or vanity to suggest a retreat-like feel.
- Pro Tip: Keep furniture proportional—oversized pieces can overwhelm Laguna’s often compact layouts.
7. Incorporate Local Flair
Laguna Beach’s artistic roots and small-town charm set it apart from other Orange County markets. Subtle touches can make your home feel authentically “Laguna.”
- How to Do It: Display a piece from a local artist (think plein air paintings of the coast) or a coffee table book about Laguna’s history. Stage a reading nook with a plush chair and a stack of art magazines. If you’ve got a quirky feature—like a hand-painted tile backsplash—let it shine as a conversation starter.
- Pro Tip: Avoid generic decor. Buyers here value individuality over cookie-cutter staging.
8. Address Repairs and Updates
In a buyer’s market, imperfections stand out. Fix minor issues to avoid giving buyers a reason to negotiate down.
- How to Do It: Patch wall dings, repaint scuffed areas in a fresh neutral (e.g., Benjamin Moore’s “Simply White”), and replace burnt-out bulbs. If your home has dated fixtures—like brass chandeliers from the ’90s—swap them for modern alternatives that fit the coastal vibe (e.g., matte black or brushed nickel).
- Pro Tip: Get a pre-listing inspection to catch hidden issues. Buyers in 2025 are savvier and less forgiving of surprises.
9. Appeal to the Senses
Staging isn’t just visual—it’s experiential. Create an atmosphere that feels like a Laguna Beach escape.
- How to Do It: Use a subtle scent like citrus or sea breeze (via diffusers, not overpowering candles). Play soft background music—think acoustic guitar or ambient ocean sounds—during showings. Ensure the home feels cool and comfortable with proper HVAC settings.
- Pro Tip: Fresh flowers (e.g., lilies or orchids) in the entryway or living area add a touch of luxury without cluttering.
10. Hire a Professional Stager
While DIY staging can work, a professional familiar with Laguna Beach’s market can elevate your listing to the next level. They’ll tailor the presentation to high-end buyers and current trends.
- How to Do It: Look for stagers with experience in coastal luxury properties—check reviews or ask your real estate agent for recommendations. Expect to invest $2,000–$5,000 depending on home size and scope, a small price for the potential return.
- Pro Tip: Request a portfolio of past projects to ensure their style aligns with Laguna’s aesthetic.
What This Means for Your Sale
Let’s say your home is valued at $3.1 million, the current median. Effective staging could bump that up by 10%—an extra $310,000—while cutting time on market from 100 days to 60 or less. In a buyer’s market, where competition is stiff, that edge is invaluable. A staged home not only fetches a higher price but also attracts more showings, creating a buzz that could spark multiple offers.
Final Thoughts
Selling your Laguna Beach property in 2025 demands more than a “For Sale” sign—it requires a strategic showcase of its best features. By embracing the coastal charm, decluttering ruthlessly, and staging with purpose, you’ll captivate buyers and maximize your return. Whether it’s a modern villa or a historic cottage, your home has a story—let staging tell it in a way that resonates with today’s market. Ready to get started? Consult a local real estate expert or stager today to turn your property into a buyer’s dream.
