1. Make a good impression!

Welcome potential buyers with an inviting porch, attractive flowers, a clean door mat, and a freshly painted door. You want all guests to leave with a good first, and lasting impression.

2. Depersonalize! Depersonalize! Depersonalize!

Store away any family photos, personal documents, awards, toiletries... the list goes on! Removing personal items allows potential buyers to envision themselves in the space and aren’t reminded that they are walking through a stranger’s home.

 

3. Patch and Repair.

This is the time to take care of anything that needs repairing both outdoors and indoors. Everything from landscaping, repairing any holes in the walls, cleaning out any stains, etc. These are the details that make a huge difference.

 

4. Go Neutral.

There will be an array of potential buyers viewing the home that come from different backgrounds, ages, and personal taste’s. It’s important to appeal to the majority. If they can envision the space with their existing furniture, it will create a personal attachment to the home.

 

5. Lighting.

The more lighting you have, both natural and artificial, the better! Turn on all lamps, light fixtures, and open all curtains before showings. A well-lit home appears much more friendly and welcoming!
 

6. Furniture Placement.

Be very mindful where you place your furniture. You want to make the rooms feel spacious, functional, and inviting. Pro Tip: Highlight the features in each space! For example, if you have a beautiful fireplace in your living room, arrange the furniture around it and hang a mirror or picture over the mantel so that it becomes the focal point.

 

7. Clear any remaining clutter!

Remember less is always more! Especially when it comes to staging. Potential buyers only spend so much time in each home so the less belongings you have out to distract, the better. Pro Tip: In your kitchen, keep the countertops clear! Store all small appliances, dish racks, knife blocks, etc.

 

8. Make sure the house is sparkling clean.

This is super critical! You want people to feel like the home was taken care of and cared for. We always recommend lighting a candle and letting some fresh air in before each showing as well.

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9. Make Any Necessary Updates.

Updating old doorknobs, lighting fixtures, and paint is the best place to start. You will be surprised at how much of a difference those three things make!

 

10. Lastly, Stage Where It Counts!

If you are limited to time or budget, the most important rooms to stage are: living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and master bedrooms.