Staging makes a big difference in helping buyers see themselves living in your home. That’s why staging can often get your home sold in less time and for more money. If you don’t have the budget for a professional stager, here’s how to make your home show beautifully for very little cost.

Declutter:

• Make the entry area open and welcoming with no keys or random items.
• Declutter closets so buyers see how big they are.
• Put away family photos and personal items such as trophies, awards, diplomas.
• Remove extra throw pillows and coffee table books.
• Put furniture that’s just cluttering up rooms into storage.

Place furniture to make a room look spacious:

• Decide how the room will be used.
• Empty it to get a feel for the space, and to see where furniture should go.
• Put the largest piece of furniture in the room first, then work the rest of the pieces around it.
• Don’t block doorways or the traffic flow in the room.
• Don’t block views through windows or into other rooms.
• Lay rugs under furniture to make the room seem larger.
• Add artwork to add character.

Do some decorating:

• Where needed, apply a fresh coat of paint to walls and trim.
• Refinish scratched floors so they don’t look like they need replacing.
• Put brighter light bulbs in all fixtures. A bright home creates positive feelings.
• Before showings, set the dining table and add flowers throughout the home.

Freshen up the atmosphere:

• Air out the home and use air fresheners to eliminate odors from cooking, pets, plants, and anything else with a strong scent.
• Simple scents work best, like orange, lemon, vanilla, pine, basil, green tea.
• But use scents sparingly. You don’t want to overwhelm buyers.

Pay special attention to the primary bedroom. It’s very important that it shows well:

• Go for neutral décor because you want everyone to be able to appreciate this most personal space.
• If there isn’t a headboard, add one. An inexpensive one brings balance to the space.
• Eliminate all clutter, making it feel like a place where one can unwind.
• Choose comfy bedding and iron it. Avoid bold patterns and strong colors.

Make a good impression in the bathroom:

• Remove mold, and calcium and soap residue from tile, porcelain surfaces, and shower door.
• Get new floor mats and rugs.
• Add greenery and flowers.
• Before showings, put in fresh towels, new soaps, and shampoos and conditioners in new bottles.

Thinking of selling or buying a home? Please text, call, or email us to learn about your best options today!