If you’re looking to sell your home this year, there’s no better time than now to start preparing it for a successful sale. One important aspect of getting your home ready to sell is staging it - that is, arranging your furniture, decor, and other elements in a way that maximizes your home’s potential and appeals to potential buyers. Here are some helpful tips and checklists to get you started on the home staging process, no matter what style of home you’re working with.
First Impressions Count
The first thing a potential buyer will notice when they come to your home is its exterior. Even if you have a beautiful interior, if your front yard, porch, and entryway are uninviting or cluttered, it can turn off buyers before they even step inside. Here are some tips for creating a welcoming first impression:
- Mow and edge the lawn, weed flower beds, and trim hedges regularly to keep your garden looking neat and tidy.
- Add potted plants or hanging baskets to add color and interest to your porch or entryway.
- Clean your front door, repaint if necessary, and add a new doormat.
- Ensure that all outdoor lights are functioning and replace bulbs if necessary.
Maximize Your Space
In order to showcase your home’s best features and make it feel more spacious, it’s important to avoid clutter and ensure that each room has a clear purpose. Here are some tips for maximizing your space:
- Declutter by removing any unnecessary furniture, decor, and personal items.
- Organize your closets, cabinets, and drawers to show off your storage space.
- Remove any excess or oversized furniture that makes a room feel cramped.
- Define each room’s purpose by staging it with appropriate furniture and decor, such as a desk in a home office.
Lighten Up
Natural light can make a big difference in how inviting your home feels to buyers. Here are some tips for letting in more light and making the most of what you have:
- Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible.
- Clean all windows inside and out for maximum brightness.
- Add mirrors or other reflective surfaces to bounce light around the room.
- Replace any outdated or dim light fixtures with brighter, more modern options.
Clean and Neutralize
When buyers come to see your home, they don’t want to feel like they’re invading someone else’s space. It’s important to clean thoroughly and neutralize your decor so that potential buyers can easily envision themselves living in the space. Here’s how:
- Clean your home from top to bottom, giving special attention to frequently used areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Remove personal items like family photos and religious decor, and replace them with neutral art and accents.
- Paint your walls in neutral colors like beige or gray to appeal to a wider range of buyers.
- Invest in new, neutral bedding and towels to give your bedrooms and bathrooms a fresh, clean look.
Final Touches
Once you’ve done the heavy lifting of decluttering, cleaning, and staging your home, it’s time to add those final touches that will make it truly shine. Here are some ideas:
- Add fresh flowers or plants to bring life and color to your rooms.
- Invest in new throw pillows, blankets, and decor to add pops of color and texture to your furniture.
- Light candles or use room sprays to add pleasant scents and cozy ambiance.
- Style your dining table with chic place settings and fresh linens.
Conclusion
Staging your home can seem like a daunting task, but with some attention to detail and a bit of effort, you can make it look and feel its best. By creating a welcoming first impression, maximizing your space, letting in natural light, neutralizing your decor, and adding those final touches, you’ll be well on your way to a successful home sale.
Room-by-Room Checklist
If you’re looking for a more detailed guide on staging your home room by room, this helpful checklist can guide you through the process:
Entryway
- Add a rug or runner to define your entryway.
- Replace an outdated light fixture with something more modern.
- Add a mirror or wall art to add interest.
Living Room
- Declutter by removing any unnecessary furniture, toys, or decor.
- Add throw pillows or a cozy blanket to your furniture.
- Arrange furniture in a way that maximizes seating and promotes conversation.
Kitchen
- Clear all countertops of appliances, dish towels, and other clutter.
- Organize your pantry and cabinets to show off your storage space.
- Display a bowl of fresh fruit or a vase of flowers to add color and life.
Dining Room
- Add a table runner or fresh flowers to your dining table.
- Choose neutral and cohesive place settings for an elegant look.
- Remove any extra chairs or furniture that make the room feel cramped.
Master Bedroom
- Invest in new, neutral bedding and pillows for a fresh look.
- Remove any personal items, including family photos and religious decor.
- Add a cozy throw or rug to your bed or seating area.
Bathroom
- Remove all unnecessary items from your counter, including personal hygiene items.
- Invest in new, fresh towels and bath mat to add a pop of color.
- Place candles or a room diffuser to add a soothing ambiance.
Cheat Sheet
If you’re short on time or simply want a quick reference guide, this home staging cheat sheet has everything you need to know:
- Declutter and remove any unnecessary items.
- Deep clean your entire home, paying special attention to kitchens and bathrooms.
- Make repairs and touch up paint as needed.
- Neutralize your decor by removing personal items and investing in neutral bedding and towels.
- Maximize your space by arranging furniture in a way that promotes conversation and defines each room’s purpose.
Happy Staging!
Staging your home can be a lot of work, but with these helpful tips and checklists, you’ll be well on your way to a successful sale. Remember to take your time, focus on the details, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
