Staging your home is more than just cleaning every room and organizing every nick nack you own on some shelf. What you do before showing your home could mean the difference between a quick sale and higher selling price if done right or a long market wait for someone who looks past the clutter and will likely offer less. Here are ways you can leave a positive impression on potential buyers.
De-Clutter — Clear the clutter from around your home and inside your home. It’s easy to overlook things you see every day, so try to put yourself in the shoes of the potential buyer. Consider having a friend or relative come over to help point out unnecessary items. Larger pieces of furniture can make a room feel smaller, store items in a storage locker or with a relative.
Clean the Cabinets and Closets — Make space in kitchen and bathroom cabinets, closets and other storage areas. Pack up items you don’t regularly use, and put them out of sight or donate them. Leaving these areas completely full may give potential buyers the impression that your home doesn’t have enough storage space for their needs.
Clear the Way — Make sure potential homebuyers can move through your house easily. Remove furniture that blocks the natural flow of traffic or hinders sight lines into other rooms.
Remove Personal Items — Family pictures, children’s artwork and other personal items should be removed or pared down to avoid distraction. Personal belongings can also make it hard for potential buyers to imagine themselves living in the house.
Remember Curb Appeal — Make a strong first impression by sprucing up your front yard and entryway. Paint house numbers and/or replace exterior light fixtures if necessary. Keep the lawn mowed, the yard free of clutter and toys, and the plants well maintained.
Clean and Pristine Sells — Clean your house thoroughly, walls, floors, bathrooms. Clean and pristine sells faster than run down and dingy so spend some time cleaning. Consider painting neutral colors on walls where you may have added that lime green color or have had family pictures hanging for fifteen years.
If you would like to learn more about simple To-Do’s before selling your home. Contact Heidi to get a free home evaluation.