When selling your home, first impressions aren’t just kind of important — they can make or break a sale. That’s where home staging comes in. Staging is more than just tidying up or rearranging your furniture and painting over a few worn spots; it’s a strategic process designed to highlight the best parts of your home and spark a connection with those who might be looking to buy it. And the effort is worth it — according to the National Association of Realtors, 81% of buyer’s agents report that staging makes it easier for buyers to picture a property as their future home. By carefully and thoughtfully preparing each space, staging allows buyers to picture what it will be like to live there, ultimately increasing the likelihood of a faster and more profitable sale for you.
Whether you’re planning to stage your home on your own or bring in a professional, these 10 tips for staging a home will make your home stand out in a competitive market:
1. Declutter every room
Less is truly more when it comes to staging. A clutter-free home feels open and inviting, giving buyers the impression that there is more space and, therefore, the house is more valuable. Pack away non-essentials, clear busy countertops, and organize closets for those casual peeks. If you’re short on storage, renting a temporary storage unit can help.
2. Depersonalize the space
Someone looking to buy a house wants to be able to imagine it as their own, so you’ll want to remove yourself from the equation. Minimize family photographs, personal keepsakes, and distracting bold decor. Aim for a more neutral atmosphere that appeals to a broad audience.
3. Deep clean like a pro
A clean house sends a strong message that it has been well cared for without needing a top-to-bottom remodel. Scrub floors, clean baseboards and ceilings, and dust those spots you usually ignore. Don’t want to do it yourself? Professional cleaning services can be a worthwhile investment.
4. Hide evidence of pets
Pet ownership shouldn’t distract from what makes your home shine. Temporarily tuck away pet items like beds, bowls, and toys. You’ll also want to address any lingering odors and consider having carpets professionally cleaned to ensure freshness. If you know a buyer is coming by to check out the house, it might also be worth it to temporarily board your pets or have them stay at a friend’s or neighbor’s place.
5. Maximize lighting
Bright, airy spaces tend to feel more welcoming than darker areas. Open up the blinds or curtains, replace low-wattage lightbulbs, and add table lamps if your rooms are feeling a little dim. Strategically placed mirrors can also amplify the light and create the illusion of more space.
6. Make the living room inviting
Buyers tend to form their very first impression upon stepping into the living room, so focus on staging the living room to make it as inviting as possible. Arrange furniture to promote conversation, add a cozy throw blanket or some pillows, and use subtle decor to make the space feel warm and functional.
7. Showcase the kitchen
The kitchen is another area of your house that can make or break a sale. Keep the counters free of clutter, polish up or put away appliances, and add simple touches like a bowl of fresh fruit or a flower bouquet to lighten up the space. A spotless, welcoming kitchen can make your home even more irresistible to the right buyer.
8. Stick to neutral colors
While you might appreciate bold wall colors and quirky patterns, they aren’t always as big a draw to potential buyers. Neutral tones, like soft whites and grays, provide a blank canvas that lets those looking at your home visualize their own style in the space.
9. Boost the curb appeal
Often overlooked, the exterior of your home can be just as important to homebuyers as the inside. That’s because the exterior sets the tone long before the buyer enters. Mow the lawn, freshen up landscaping, and update entryway touches like doormats, door signs, and potted plants. A power-washed driveway, walkway, and outer walls can make a huge, near-instant difference. Here are some ways to boost your curb appeal.
10. Define unused space
An empty room that has no real defining traits can sometimes confuse buyers. Instead of leaving it empty, stage it thoughtfully — a home office, a reading nook, or even a small indoor gym can demonstrate the potential of every square foot of your home. Source
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