BEHIND THE SCENE
Staging a home for potential buyers
doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact,
with a little imagination and elbow
grease, you can go a long way toward
making your home more inviting. Here
are six budget-conscious staging tips
to help you create an uplifting mood
while making your home look
significantly better in photographs.
And we all know how important
photographs are as most buyers start
their process of reviewing properties
online first.
At Team Athey and Remarkable Property Management we know that relative to the amount of time and money involved, staging may be one of the most cost-effective projects undertaken when it comes to listing a home. That’s because potential buyers aren’t just looking for a house, they’re looking for a lifestyle. Therefore, by staging the right lighting and mood, it becomes a much more emotional purchase.
TIP 1 - DEPERSONALIZE: For starters, buyers should be able to connect with your property and imagine themselves living there, not you. So as hard as it is emotionally, get to work and gather up all your personal photographs, special knickknacks, and family keepsakes. Pack them up for the move to your new homes and store them out of sight in the meantime.
Take depersonalization a step further. Empty bathroom counters of medicines, lotions, and personal grooming items. Make certain toys and clothes are not strewn about. Go ahead. Take this time to declutter and clean. Get rid of things you no longer need. The more empty storage space buyers can see, the better.
TIP 2 - STAGE WHERE IT COUNTS: Living room. Master bedroom. Kitchen. These three rooms have the biggest potential to influence a buyer’s decision. So make certain they are ultra clean. If possible, replace or repair any broken or damaged appliances in the kitchen. Pare down furnishings to make the rooms look larger. Consider the flow of your furniture. Arrange chairs, sofas, and beds in an appealing way that permits easy navigation. Use pillows and throws to add a pop of color. Think simple. No visual-clutter. And, perhaps most importantly, make certain these rooms smell fresh and odor free.
TIP 3 - DEFINE THE SPACE: Buyers need to envision all the usable space in your home. By defining a finished attic as a home office, or a junk room as a guest room (sans junk) you can make sure every square foot of your home has a defined purpose. Even if the buyer doesn’t use the space for the same purpose, they can envision all the usable space in your home.
TIP 4 - LIGHTING: When it comes to setting a mood, light is the answer. To make your home appear brighter and more inviting, let in as much light as you can. Open window treatments to allow in natural light during the day. In the evening turn on all lights for showings. (Even in the closets.) Not only does this make your home show better, it also keeps buyers from having to hunt for light switches. Note: Updating fixtures can make a definite difference in the feel of a home if your budget allows. If not, make certain existing light fixtures are clean and working.
TIP 5 - DON’T FORGET CURB APPEAL: The front door and curb appeal are critical. After all, this is where buyers will make their first impression of your home. Clean up your landscaping. Pressure wash the walkways and windows. Put a fresh coat of paint or hardware on the front door if needed. Remember potential buyers will stand at the front entry as the agent gets the key from the lockbox. Give them something beautiful to view such as potted plants or gleaming light fixtures.
As you can see, some of the best staging tips don’t require spending a lot. With a minimal amount of effort and imagination, you can make maximum emotional impact on potential buyers.
Hi, I’m Suzanne Athey, founder of Team Athey & Remarkable Property Management. If you’d like to know more about real estate or leasing, call me at 469-916-1222 or email me at suzanne@teamathey.com. I’d love to visit with you and answer all your questions.
