Whether you’ve already decided to list your home or you’re just beginning to consider it, the subject of staging will arise. “Staging” means arranging your house’s contents in a way that will be most attractive to prospective buyers. If you’ve owned and lived in your home for a long time, you have probably put a lot of effort—and much of your own personality—into your décor. Staging experts will advise you to take a lot of that personality out.
If that seems painful, perhaps you should think some more about whether it’s a good time to sell your home. If you’re firm in your decision to proceed with the sale, here are some tips for staging your home for sale. Make a budget for staging, because there are things you’ll have to do that might cost money—such as painting, cleaning, and repair—before you list your house.
Stow the Knickknacks
Decluttering is the top tip for staging your home for sale. Shelves full of memorabilia are meaningful to you, but look messy to prospective buyers. Find or purchase storage boxes and pack the personal stuff away. Then, store it somewhere buyers aren’t going to see it. Buyers will open closet doors, peek in attics, and inspect the basement, so get your boxes into safe storage out of the house.
Clean Every Nook and Cranny
See the cobwebs or dusty baseboards the way a buyer would see them. Roll up the rugs, clear the countertops, and give everything a thorough cleaning. Dust, vacuum, and wash floors, wipe down cabinets, and get into corners. Home seekers will look everywhere, so beat them to it and clean before they arrive.
Brighten and Paint
Even if you think your home is stunning, a buyer wants to see your home as their home—and they can’t superimpose their vision on top of your multi-colored walls, or through dim lighting. Realize that you’ve decided you won’t live there much longer and get out the neutral paint. Assess your lighting. Do you need to add a lamp or two to brighten a room? Buyers like bright rooms, and rooms that immediately announce their purpose—this is especially true of the nursery, living room, or master bedroom.
Forgo Some Furnishings
Your home will look bigger and brighter without oversized couches and beaten up recliners. Stow the old furniture and rent something new—if you can afford it. If budget is a concern, inexpensive slipcovers provide instant upgrades to older furniture. Your real estate agent will know about professional staging services in your area if you have trouble envisioning a new set-up that will appeal to buyers. The investment in staging services may pay off in a quicker sale.
Concentrate on Curb Appeal
If your house’s exterior looks sad, a buyer won’t want to come inside. Trim your lawn and weed your garden. Make sure your siding and sidewalks are clean and free of debris. Clear cobwebs from under the eaves and “stage” your outdoor areas, too, so a buyer can picture themselves enjoying the yard or deck.
If you put these tips on staging your home for sale into effect, you should have good luck attracting buyers, so you can start looking for a new home yourself.
