I’ve seen a lot of new technology make its way into real estate, and most of it has been a good thing. But one trend that gives me pause is the growing use of AI-generated home staging. These programs can take an empty room and fill it with digital furniture, lighting, and décor in seconds. It looks impressive online—but in my experience, it does more harm than good when it comes to actually selling a home.
The Online Illusion
AI staging creates images that look perfect—maybe too perfect. The furniture always fits just right, the lighting is balanced, and there’s no sign of real life anywhere. It’s a polished illusion that sets unrealistic expectations. When buyers walk into a home after seeing those AI-enhanced photos, they often feel let down. The space they saw online doesn’t match what they see in person, and that disconnect can be hard to recover from.
Why Real Staging Still Matters
Real staging does something AI can’t—it helps buyers feel something. It’s not just about where the furniture goes; it’s about warmth, flow, and the sense of home that draws people in. I’ve seen buyers walk into a properly staged property and instantly start imagining their lives there. That emotional connection is what sells homes, and no algorithm can replicate it.That’s exactly why I cover professional, in-person home staging at no cost for all listings over $600,000. It’s an investment I make because it works. When a home looks its best in person—not just in photos—it attracts stronger offers, sells faster, and leaves a lasting impression on buyers.
The Issue of Honesty and Trust
As a REALTOR®, honesty in marketing is something I take seriously. Over-edited or AI-generated images can easily cross into misleading territory. If photos show features that don’t actually exist, buyers may feel deceived—and that damages trust. I’d rather represent a property truthfully and with integrity than rely on digital tricks.
A Balanced Approach
That’s not to say all virtual staging is bad. When it’s done transparently and realistically, it can help buyers visualize an empty space. The key is using technology responsibly—to enhance what’s already there, not create something that isn’t. But whenever possible, I’ll always choose real, hands-on staging that tells an honest story about a home.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, real estate is about people, not pixels. My job is to help buyers and sellers make confident, informed decisions. Technology has its place, but authenticity always wins. When a home feels genuine, buyers respond—and that’s something AI just can’t fake.
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