Staging Your Home: Look At That Beauty!

In today’s real estate market, it takes a lot more than just the right price to sell a home. Buyers have a plethora of properties to choose from, so it is critical that your home stand out. Cleaner, more comfortable and less-crowded homes sell quicker, so here are some ideas on how to stage your house.

The first thing a potential buyer will see is the look of the home from the outside. Buyers driving will continue to drive by, unless the home’s exterior grabs their attention. Take a look at your house from across the street, and from the neighbor’s yards. Can you see it? If trees and shrubs are overgrown and obscuring the front or sides of the house, most buyers won’t give it a second look. Inspect the exterior paint, and if the home is in need, hire a company or paint it yourself. It is wise to use a neutral color. Also, walkways and driveways should be immaculate. Clean up all oil spills, and make sure there is a natural, flowing entrance to the front door.

Clear the Clutter!

Get a head-star on packing, by storing all of your personal knickknacks and family photos. Rearrange table tops, desks and mantels so they are nearly empty, except for an attention-grabbing vase of flowers or accent piece. Furniture should be reduced to give rooms an open, free-flowing feeling. Spotless is the standard of cleanliness while selling a home. You may want to hire an outside cleaning service. Try to keep the residence pristine, since you never know when the right buyer is going to show up.

If your tastes run to bright colors or unconventional wall coverings, you might tone down the interior decorations. Finally, make the interior atmosphere inviting. If it’s hot outside, turn up the air conditioning so prospective buyers will feel comfortable, and not rushed to get in and out. Make sure the lighting flatters the house, but isn’t too dim. Also, turn on some soft, relaxing music to make the buyers feel comfortable and at home.

What’s The Most Important Room to Stage?

The kitchen is the center stage for life and entertaining for most modern families. We already know that clutter is unattractive for buyers, and that is doubly important in the kitchen. The few items there are on the countertops, the bigger they will look. Pay particular attention to the sinks and faucets, because any major flaw, such as chipped tile will need to be repaired before potential buyers visit. Lastly, set the table. New placemats, linen napkins, glistening glasses and silverware and a striking centerpiece will make a lasting impression. You can’t go overboard with this. Visit a few model homes for ideas, but don’t cut corners on the dining room table presentation.

Properly staging your home will allow it to sell quickly. By taking the time to make your home look more enticing, your property will be sold more quickly, and possibly, for a higher price.