Your home is probably your biggest investment, so it pays to stage it when you decide to sell. A well-maintained home can sell faster and for a higher price
Most real estate agents recommend deep, detailed decluttering and cleaning even before the house goes on the market. You only have seconds to make a positive impression.
The outside of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see. I just love this quote by TV’s House Doctor Ann Maurice: “You want the buyers to drop by, not to drive by.”
Agents agree that improving curb appeal will increase the interest of potential buyers.
Check your curb appeal by doing the following:
• Power wash the siding. Do it yourself or hire a professional.
• Manicure your lawn and trim the bushes and plants. Get rid of dead shrubs or flowers.
• Clean the windows, front door, mailbox and light fixtures.
• Replace your house numbers so they identify your home right away.
If the outside of your home looks presentable, buyers will assume that the inside is in great condition.
After finishing the outside chores, start decluttering and cleaning the inside of your home. If you have children and pets, your cleaning efforts will increase. When your home is being shown, take your dog for a walk. Some people are intimidated by canines.
Eliminate some furniture and accessories. “Less is more” is the mantra used for successful home staging.
De-personalize
Potential buyers like to visualize their furniture, pictures and accessories in the home. Create more space by removing excessive amounts of furniture and appliances. Organize your closets and storage. Aim for the uniform look of a show home.
Kitchen is the heart
Organize your kitchen counters to be spacious and functional. This allows the potential viewers to envision the joy of cooking in that kitchen. Display on the counters a minimal number of small appliances. This will increase the valuable space that buyers are looking for.
Use natural lighting
Open your windows and let the fresh air in with natural light. You want to make the rooms in your house feel spacious and breathable. For an extra touch, display scented candles, fresh flowers or fruit. Baking a bunch of cookies and sharing with potential buyers will be a memorable gesture.
Create a focal point
A focal point can be a piece of furniture, a fireplace or a painting that catches your attention. They are important because they allow you to show off the most attractive and unique aspects of your home. This brings the buyer’s attention to the focal point and indicates to them that this house is special.
Define each room
Potential buyers shouldn’t be guessing the purpose of any room in the home. A spare bedroom can be used as a guest room, office or craft room.
Ranka Burzan owns a professional organizing company based in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter and becoming more organized.
