Home Staging Do’s & Don’ts: Get Your Home Sold Faster

Imagine this: a potential buyer walks through your front door and is instantly greeted by a warm, inviting space bathed in natural light. The furniture is arranged for easy conversation, and tasteful accents hint at the home’s potential. This is the power of home staging!

Staging isn’t about making your home a showpiece; it’s about creating a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision themselves living there. Here’s how to stage your home for success:

Do’s:

• Declutter and depersonalize: Think “less is more.” Pack away family photos, collections, and excessive furniture. This creates a sense of spaciousness and allows buyers to see themselves in the space. Imagine walking into a beautifully lit art gallery — the focus is on the open space, not the clutter on the walls.
• Embrace natural light: Open curtains, and blinds, and trim back overgrown landscaping. A bright and airy home feels welcoming and promotes a sense of well-being.
• Neutralize your walls: Bold colors can be a turnoff for some buyers. Opt for calming neutrals like beige, gray, or white. These create a clean slate and allow pops of color from strategically placed throw pillows or artwork.
• Stage for functionality: Arrange furniture to create conversation areas in the living room and designate clear walkways throughout the house. In the kitchen, clear countertops and showcase functional storage solutions. Buyers want to imagine themselves easily navigating and using the space.
• Create a welcoming ambiance: Fresh flowers, scented candles (with a light, universally pleasing fragrance), and soft music can add a touch of warmth and personality without being overpowering.

Don’ts:

• Neglect minor repairs: A leaky faucet or a chipped paint job screams “neglect” and can deter buyers. Fix these issues before showings to show you’ve taken care of the property.
• Forget about curb appeal: Your home’s exterior is the buyer’s first impression. Tidy up the lawn, plant some flowers, and ensure the walkway is clear.
• Crank up the air freshener: Strong artificial scents can be off-putting. Opt for natural ventilation whenever possible, and if using air fresheners, choose very mild scents.
• Leave it to chance: Staging requires intentionality. Don’t just shove furniture to the side. Research staging techniques or consider hiring a professional stager to maximize your home’s potential.
• Stage for yourself: Your home’s unique personality is what makes it special, but for selling purposes, aim for broad appeal.

By following these do’s and don’ts, you can transform your home into a stage that sets it apart from the competition. Remember, a well-staged home can sell faster and for a higher price. So, declutter, depersonalize, and let your home’s potential shine through!