Transforming a 2.25 Million Dollar Home in Virginia Highlands

When it comes to occupied staging, balancing the realities of daily life with the polish needed for a successful sale can be a challenge. This beautiful property at 686 Amsterdam Avenue NE in Virginia Highlands is a shining example of how thoughtful staging can bring out a home’s best features while keeping it comfortable for the family still living there.

From the start, Karen McDonald of Innovative Impressions partnered with MK Williams, Operations Manager of The Brockway Group, to walk through the home, room by room. Karen carefully noted the home’s unique qualities—its soaring ceilings, custom windows and doors, and high-end finishes—while also addressing the practical aspects of a busy household with children. Suggestions included creative ways to store and organize toys, strategic lighting updates, and furniture placement to maximize flow and highlight the home’s expansive layout.

Sitting on one of the largest lots in Virginia Highlands, this property boasts multiple oversized rooms, a chef’s kitchen, and an array of luxury features—all thoughtfully highlighted through subtle staging enhancements. Karen also provided targeted recommendations for the exterior, offering curb appeal and backyard staging tips to make the outdoor spaces just as inviting as the interiors. Even often-overlooked areas like the garage and storage rooms were considered, with guidance on how to present them in a clean, functional way that resonated with buyers.

One of the most valuable aspects of this project was Karen’s collaboration with both the homeowners and MK Williams. By leaving a clear list of inside and outside recommendations and guiding the process with professionalism and creativity, she ensured the house was market-ready without overwhelming the family.

"Working with Karen McDonald of Innovative Impressions in Virginia Highlands was an excellent experience from start to finish. Karen was a great communicator throughout the process. She arrived on time, carried herself with the highest level of professionalism, and immediately built trust with my clients. Specifically, Karen was hired to help stage the home, room by room, both inside and outside, for real estate photos and showings. What truly stood out was her flexibility and creativity. Karen worked collaboratively, while also bringing her own expert eye to even the smallest details. The value she provided during the occupied consultation was outstanding. This home was under contract in 4 days. Having Karen as a partner in presenting this $2,248,888 home at its best was an incredible asset, and I look forward to working with her again."

-MK Williamson, Brockway Group Operations Manager

The results spoke for themselves: thanks to these strategic staging efforts, the property was under contract in just 4 days and sold for $2,248,888. In a highly competitive Virginia Highlands market, staging was the difference-maker—helping this luxury home stand out, attract strong buyer interest, and achieve a swift, top-value sale.