PROVEN TIPS TO STYLE, STAGE & SELL YOUR HOME

Studies show that a well-staged home sells faster than the competition. Setting the stage will maximize potential offers, for a higher price, especially in the age of online real estate listings. Just check out the before and after photos above! Here are some simple and proven, affordable tips on how you can style, stage and sell your home.

1. Curb Appeal

Make the best first impression by sprucing up the lawn and landscape. Remove dead/overgrown shrubs. Power wash the outside or touch up paint if needed and seal the driveway. Add welcoming touches to the front porch including seasonal plants, a new welcome mat, and a freshly painted front door.

2. Declutter and Neutralize

Look at each room and start packing. Remove anything that might distract buyers from seeing your property, including personal collections (photos, memorabilia, books/magazines, etc.)

3. Refresh Walls, Rugs, and Windows Treatments

When was the last time you painted? Are there imperfections or scratches on the walls? Is the current paint color dated? If so, consider adding a fresh coat of neutral paint. The same applies to area rugs and carpeting. Be sure to have them professionally cleaned and, if dated, consider replacing. If you have hardwood floors under the carpeting, you’ll find it worthwhile to remove and refinish the floors so you can then use the hardwoods as a selling point. As for window treatments, replace any outdated or specific styles. Or if you have great windows — make sure they stand out by removing all of the window treatments.

4. Lighten and Brighten

It’s important that the home feels light and bright. Open the curtains wide (or replace as indicated above) and let in as much natural light as possible. Also, replace any light fixtures that are outdated and make sure all existing lights are working.

5. Make it Shine

Clean, dust, vacuum, and deodorize. Think aggressive spring cleaning! You may want to have a professional service clean the property from top to bottom — including the walls, ceilings, and baseboards. Dirt eats equity. The more your home shines, the better for prospective buyers. Windows and mirrors should be free of fingerprints, and hardwood floors should shine. Scrub bathrooms and kitchens so they sparkle.