How to stage your home

© Rocco Macri – 123RF.com

Highlight the idea that the home is move-in ready

When it comes to paint, a neutral palette is always a timeless option that will appeal to the largest percentage of potential buyers. The same is true for other aspects of the home such as the furniture and window coverings. It is not necessary to employ the services of a professional interior design to stage the home before selling – a few simple DIY projects can make a big difference. There is a wealth of information available to sellers online and in property related publications. Ideally, the home should look as though it is ready for the buyer to simply move in.

Depersonalise and remove clutter

When buyers view a property they want to be able to envision themselves living there and making it theirs. If possible, it is best to simplify spaces by removing everyday items such as the TV remotes, plies of laundry, pet toys, schoolwork and the to-lists on the fridge – this also includes more personal photos. Well-organised, minimal shelves and counters showcase the space potential, rather than personal items. The homeowner is in the process of preparing to sell their home, so why not get started by packing away personal items? It will declutter the home and make it one less thing to worry about during the move.

A fresh bunch of flowers and some plug-in air fresheners will have the home smelling great and be more inviting to buyers.

Cater to the senses

Sellers should consider what a buyer will experience when they first walk into the home. What will they see, smell, hear and touch? There is often an emotional response to a home that is triggered by the senses. For example the smell of freshly baked cookies will make the house feel more like a home, prepares evoking a nostalgic feeling in the buyer.

A dirty, smelly home is not appealing to anyone. Hiring a professional cleaning service will make the home smell and look great. Sticky floors and filthy light switches will only turn buyers off. Homeowners with pets should consider confining them to one area of the property while the house is on show. A barking dog can hurry a potential buyer along during the viewing. Instrumental music during the showing will appeal to the buyer’s ears.

Update and simplify

Replacing dated elements in the home with contemporary designs, will give it a fresh and modern look. Rather opt for a cleaner, simpler look than going for harsh patterns or edgy colours and avoid styles that clash with one another. It is better to have an empty wall or bare space, than have elements that don’t work well together.

Here is a checklist that sellers can use when staging their property:

Exterior:

• Lawn is cut, edged and weeds are pulled
  
• Dead bushes and trees removed
  
• Garden tools, hoses, pet toys and dog waste are clean up or put away
  
• House itself has been power washed
  
• Patio or deck is cleaned, freshly stained and in good repair
  
• Add outdoor lanterns and candles to patio area
  
• Large cracks in the driveway and walkways are repaired

Interior:

• Home is clean, decluttered and appeals to all senses
  
• Dated elements have been modernised or removed
  
• Personal photos and items have been packed away
  
• Everyday items and daily messes have been cleared
  
• Toiletries, perfumes and jewellery are not on bathroom vanity
  
• Small appliances and dishes are not cluttering the kitchen
  
• Fresh flowers or plants are added throughout to add life into the space
  
• All aspects of the home are in good repair and working order

With these tips in mind when staging a home, a seller will be able to prepare and enter into the sales process with confidence, knowing that their home is in its best possible condition.