How to Stage a Lakeside Condo for Sale

By Sean Phillips, REALTOR®, Strand resident · September 25, 2026

Short answer: Staging a lakeside condo is about letting buyers feel the lifestyle. Frame the view, maximize natural light, declutter hard, style the patio or deck as an outdoor room, keep colours light and coastal, and prepare every room for professional photos and video. Small, inexpensive changes often make the biggest difference.

10 staging tips

1. Frame the view. Clean windows inside and out, open blinds fully and arrange seating to face the lake.
2. Maximize light. Replace dim bulbs with warm, bright ones and remove heavy drapes.
3. Declutter. Pack away personal photos, collections and extra furniture. Buyers need to picture their own things.
4. Style the patio. Add two chairs, a small table, a plant and an outdoor rug. Show where morning coffee happens.
5. Keep it light and natural. Whites, soft blues, sand tones and natural textures suit lake living.
6. Refresh the kitchen. Clear the counters, polish fixtures and add a bowl of fruit or fresh flowers.
7. Make beds hotel-fresh. Crisp white bedding photographs beautifully.
8. Fix the small things. Touch up paint, replace burned-out bulbs and fix squeaky doors.
9. Show storage. Tidy closets and the storage locker. Buyers will look.
10. Prepare for video. Walk through each room as if on camera, and make sure the flow from entry to view is clear.

Don't forget the building

Take photos and video of the amenities: the beach, pool, hot tub, marina and grounds. At complexes like The Strand, the amenities are a big part of what buyers are paying for.

When to bring in a pro

A professional stager can be worth it for vacant or dated condos. For many occupied homes, a consultation and a few rented accessories are enough.

Frequently asked questions

Is staging worth it when selling a condo?

Often, yes. Staging helps buyers picture themselves living there and makes photos and video far more appealing, especially for buyers shopping online from out of province.

What is the most important thing to stage in a lakeside condo?

The view. Clean windows, open blinds and furniture arranged toward the lake make the biggest impact.

Should I stage the patio?

Yes. A simple seating area on the patio or deck shows buyers how they'll use the outdoor space.

More guides to Okanagan Landing and The Strand

• How to Sell a Waterfront Condo in the Okanagan for Top Dollar
• Boat Slips and Moorage on Okanagan Lake: Own, Rent or Launch?
• What Do Strata Fees Cover at The Strand Lakeside in Vernon?
• The Strand Lakeside FAQ: 50 questions answered

Have a question about waterfront living in Vernon?

I'm Sean Phillips, a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Executives Realty. I live at The Strand in Okanagan Landing and specialise in Vernon-area waterfront condos. For current listings and recent sales, visit 7343okanaganlanding.ca.

Text Sean: 778-363-0542

Call or text Sarah, my 24/7 info line: 604-227-4810

This article is general information as of fall 2026, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, fees and conditions change, so always confirm details with the appropriate professional or authority before making a decision.

General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details for your situation with the appropriate professional.