One of the questions I get asked often by people selling a home is “how can I make my home more attractive to potential buyers?” The answer is a single word, staging.
Of course, there’s a whole lot of work packed into that simple word.
As a real estate agent, I’m well-versed in best practices for staging a home. I’ve also hired an interior designer a time or two to handle it for me. Here are the best practices I’ve come to trust:
Create a Welcoming Environment
Before a showing or open house, turn on some soft music, adjust the thermostat to make it comfortable, and make sure your lighting is on point. This might mean drawing attention to natural light or adding some lamps to make the space feel warm and inviting.
Clean, Declutter, and Depersonalize
Okay, “clean” really goes without saying (I hope). But decluttering and depersonalizing is something I always need to cover with clients. Really consider all of your surfaces and everything you have sitting on them. While you don’t consider your collection of teapots clutter, potential homebuyers might.
Refresh Your Decor
This doesn’t mean going out and buying a bunch of new home decor. Take a look at what you already have and decide what to leave out vs. what to pack up. And maybe consider adding a couple new pieces that make the look more modern, if needed. Aim for a balance between timeless and trendy.
Add Some Plants
There are few things that can brighten up a room like plants or fresh cut flowers. Don’t go overboard, but consider placing a few strategically.
Don’t Forget Your Curb Appeal
What do potential buyers see when they pull up to your house? If the outside looks drab and dreary, it might not even matter that the inside is breathtaking. Make sure that exterior walls, patios, walkways, and decks look great and that your landscaping is well-maintained.
When you’re prepping your home, you’ll want to prioritize your living room, closets (if they’re nice and roomy), bathrooms, and the primary bedroom.
Remember, you don’t have to go it alone! If you’re thinking about selling or making a move, I’d love to help. Let’s chat!
