Staging Your Home

Did you know the sale of a home is usually made within the first few minutes of the showing? It starts as the homebuyer drives up to the property, and it continues the first few seconds into the entryway. Either a person connects with the home, or they continue to look for their idea of the "perfect" home.

Because first impressions are so important, homeowners are increasingly staging their homes to create a perfect buying atmosphere.

Staging is the process of making a home look its absolute best. Small, inexpensive improvements can completely change the way your home shows, and give it more buyer appeal. Keep in mind that staging can work on both an occupied and a vacant home. The goal is simply to create the best visual experience possible.

Start your staging process by looking at your home from two vantage points: the exterior and the interior.

The Exterior of Your Home

• View your home from curbside; does the exterior invite you in?
• Mow the lawn, trim bushes and trees, and clean up flowerbeds and rock gardens. If the weather is warm, plant a few flowers to add color to the yard. Also consider placing a few pots on patios and porches to make the home more inviting.
• Repaint your home and trim if necessary. Verify shutters and other trim are in good shape. Replace or repair broken molding, screens, gutters and windows.
• Repair cracks in stairs, driveways and sidewalks, and make sure the foundation is in good shape.
• Install outdoor lighting to illuminate walkways, entrances and garden areas.

The Interior of Your Home

• Create a warm and inviting entryway.
• Ask a friend to take care of your pets, or consider doggie day care during the selling process. Pets may get nervous around a stranger in their home, and not all people enjoy having a pet barking or following them around the home.
• Use paint to warm up your home. Touch up scuff marks and chipped or faded areas.
• Eliminate clutter. Pack up piles of books, knickknacks and other decorations. Show off your space, not the stuff.
• Clean out closets, and only keep the absolute necessities.
• Consider renting a storage unit for boxes, extra furniture, and other surplus items. Because you are packing to move anyway, moving these items to storage will help keep you organized, and make your house appear larger and roomier.
• Keep the kitchen and bathrooms clean at all times. Pack up the extra appliances on the counter, and keep only the minimum in cabinets and drawers.