Home staging allows sellers to achieve measurably higher sales results in competitive markets. Staging begins with focusing on the exterior of the home and curb appeal. While some may be tempted to build new fences or walkways as part of an outdoor staging strategy, only sweat equity is typically required.
First, focus on shrubs, flowers, and lawns, and make sure they are properly weeded, mulched, and edged. If the house lacks natural elements, consider a couple of large planters or urns that, even in winter, provide a splash of evergreen vegetation. Also, consider renting a pressure washer and thoroughly cleaning the roof, fascia, siding, and gutters.
Another aspect of the staging process is making the interior look its best to the widest number of potential buyers. This involves a depersonalization process that includes removing family photos and memorabilia from walls and counters and a general decluttering that includes cleaning up the refrigerator.
Take time to evaluate the overall aesthetics of the residence as well, and create a unified, cohesive feel that carries across the various rooms. Add a sense of repetitive cohesion through harmonic elements such as throw pillows throughout the house. While homebuyers may not consciously pay attention to the design style as they tour, they will respond to an interior that flows and excites the imagination, giving the feeling of “being able to move in immediately.”
When it comes to colors, opt for a neutral scheme in the staged environment, with just a few splashes of color and accents. The problem with bold elements is that they can negatively and positively impact the potential purchaser, as the whole point is to make a statement. This can pull the house viewer out of simply appreciating the interior as it is, a blank slate that can be added to their aesthetic preference.
Another thing to be aware of is that the furniture layout that works best in a practical lived-in scenario may not be the best for overall aesthetics. While placing sofas and beds against walls is common in a lived-in environment, it can impart a sense of imbalance to the casual visitor. Try staging a bed, for example, the room’s center, and adding side tables, an area rug, and plants to create a welcoming and unified look.
Do not neglect aspects of presentation that make the home feel fresh rather than old and lived in. Arrange clean, fluffy towels in the bathrooms, and add neatly ordered throw blankets on the bed and furniture. Think of all five senses, and take care of any unwanted odors through a thorough deodorizing process. When it comes to sounds, relaxing jazz, classical, or pop are the way to go in creating a mood that elevates the visitor’s experience.
Finally, remember to take care of all the small repairs that may have been put off through the years, such as fixing a window that won’t close or repairing a chip in a tile floor. While such elements may seem minor, even one such issue can send a signal to the homebuyer that there will be repairs necessary on the horizon if the property is purchased.
