Did you know?
A typical home buyer decides if they are attracted to a home within the first 8 seconds of seeing it?
So how can you ensure that a potential buyer decides to buy your home? By staging the property. Most people think that decorating a home is the same thing as staging a home. There is a big difference-staging is a way of furnishing and decorating a room that emphasizes the architectural details and positive features in the home. The goal of staging is to sell a home quickly and for the most possible money. Staging reduces the home’s flaws, depersonalizes the property, de-clutters, cleaning, improving condition items, and landscaping. It is possible to over-decorate a room, making buyers focus on these items instead of the room’s possibilities. Some tips for staging:
Clean out closets! Pack away out of season clothes and other items not being used
De-clutter! Reducing books in bookshelves or putting away knick knacks can make an area look nicer
Remove excessive furniture. This will make a room seem larger. If the room seems too sparse, then add a potted plant.
Add a centerpiece of fresh flowers to a dining room table.
Add plush, color coordinated towels to a bathroom.
Add decorative pillows to a bed in many shapes and sizes.
Allow natural light in-open all curtains and blinds.
Try to stay away from bold colors (especially in small areas) Wall treatments and flooring should be neutral in color and pattern.
Personal items such as family photos, refrigerator art, and trophy collections should be packed away. This will allow the potential buyer to feel more at ease during the viewing and allows them to focus on the property itself.
A good cleaning goes a long ways! Be sure to wash windows, scrub bathrooms, and keep kitchen area clean.
Clean out fireplace. If the fireplace is not in use, place a large basket of flowers or large candle holder to fill space.
Fix any items that are broken-loose door knobs, stubborn drawers, blown light bulbs. Check window screens to make sure they are present and in good condition.
Don’t forget the garage! Most sellers go to great lengths to make their home ready for showings, but forget about the garage! Make sure toys & tools are put away, floor is free of spills and stains, and cobwebs, dust, & dirt is cleaned up.
Why stage your home?
Staged home stand out from the other homes on the market
Staged homes sell faster and for more money
Staged homes showcase features instead of featuring possessions
Showings won’t be ‘wasted’
You can easily live in a staged home during the selling process
Most of your possessions are already boxed up-makes moving process easier when home does sell!
Remember! The cost to stage your home is usually less than your first price reduction and could end up getting you more money for your home in the long run!