Home staging consultant

What does a Home staging consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A Home staging consultant works on preparing properties for sale by creating an attractive and inviting environment that appeals to potential buyers. Tasks include analyzing the current interior, suggesting changes, planning and executing furniture arrangements, and selecting appropriate colors and decorations. The consultant often collaborates closely with real estate agents, photographers, and homeowners to optimize the property's presentation. The work environment is varied and can include client visits, on-site work in different homes, as well as administrative tasks at an office or from home. Flexibility and adaptability to different environments are important qualities, as the scope and style of assignments can vary greatly.

Salary development over time

Salaries for Home staging consultants have shown steady increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,300 SEK per month, increasing to 39100 SEK in 2023. The latest statistics from 2024 show an average salary of 41 100 SEK, which represents an increase of approximately 7.3% over the three-year period. This positive trend is linked to growing demand for professional interior styling services, especially in metropolitan areas where the real estate market is dynamic and competition among buyers is high. Increased awareness of the value of well-presented homes and a general appreciation of creative services have also contributed to higher salary levels in the field. Gender pay gaps remain, with women earning on average 91% of men's salaries.

Home staging consultant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,200 SEK/month (woman, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 45,600 SEK/month (man, private sector, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage: 247 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 91% (women: 40 200 SEK, men: 44,400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels are generally higher in metropolitan areas where demand for Home staging is greater.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Home staging consultant, education in interior design, decoration, or similar creative fields is usually required. Many choose to supplement their education with courses in sales, real estate, or project management to broaden their skills. Practical experience and a developed aesthetic sense are crucial, and it is common to start with internships or trainee positions to build a portfolio. There are multiple pathways into the profession, from vocational university programs to self-study and online courses.

• Formal education: Vocational college in interior design (1–2 years)
• Courses: Certification courses in Home staging, color schemes, or home styling
• Internships: Recommended for portfolio building and networking
• Prerequisites: Basic aesthetic sense and interest in interior design
• Self-study: Possible via distance learning and online platforms

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for Home staging consultants include flexible working hours, the possibility of remote work, and access to creative tools and materials. Many employers also offer skills development, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonuses linked to successful projects or sales.

Competition and challenges

The competition within Home staging is relatively high, especially in areas with a strong housing market and many players in interior styling. One of the biggest challenges is to stay updated on trends and customer preferences, as well as building a strong network of partners. Since the profession is often project-based, ensuring a steady income can be difficult. The role also requires a combination of business acumen and creativity, which can be challenging for newcomers. Pay gaps between genders and regions persist, making it important to negotiate terms and continually develop skills.

Tips for aspiring Home staging consultants

To succeed as a Home staging consultant, it is beneficial to combine creativity with a structured approach and strong customer focus. Attention to detail and the ability to quickly analyze and adapt to different properties are crucial for delivering results that impress sellers and buyers alike. Building a professional network and collaborating with real estate agents increases opportunities for assignments, while good communication skills facilitate dialogue with clients and colleagues. Flexibility and patience are needed to manage varying work conditions and sometimes unpredictable client requests. Keeping up with trends in interior design and marketing is also a key to success, especially in a competitive and rapidly evolving industry.

Key facts about Home staging consultants

• Education level: Vocational college or equivalent in interior design
• Work environment: Varied, often on-site with clients and flexible hours
• Typical employment: Project employment or self-employed
• Available jobs in the profession: 620
• Gender distribution: Mostly women, but men tend to have higher average salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many Home staging consultants choose to develop their careers by starting their own business, taking on larger projects, or specializing in a particular segment, such as luxury properties, new developments, or commercial spaces. Others advance to roles such as interior architect, project manager within the real estate industry, or educator in interior styling. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific assessment is made for Home staging consultants, but the group of interior designers, decorators, and scenographers currently has 620 available jobs, indicating continued demand. However, competition can be fierce, and the job market is influenced by economic cycles and developments in the housing market. Those with a strong portfolio and good contacts have good opportunities for growth and specialization.

Frequently asked questions about Home staging consultants

• What does a Home staging consultant earn?
  - The average salary is 41 100 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 91% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What education is required to become a Home staging consultant?
  - A vocational college program in interior design or similar is recommended, along with supplementary courses and internships.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 620 available jobs, but competition is high and the market is influenced by the housing sector.
• What is the highest salary for a Home staging consultant?
  - The highest salary is 45,600 SEK per month, applicable to a man in the private sector.
• What is the lowest salary for a Home staging consultant?
  - The lowest salary is 36,200 SEK per month, applicable to a woman with high school education in the private sector.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Creativity, flexibility, thoroughness, and good communication skills are especially valuable in the profession.