Selling your home? Staging Like a Pro

We all know how important first impressions are, and selling your home is no exception. If you’re thinking of selling your home, use these 7 simple staging tips to make your home memorable and create a great impression.

1. Closets and cupboards
   Think people won’t peek? Think again! Storage is a main consideration for most home buyers, and they most certainly will be opening cupboards and closets for a look. Get your closets organized, and put out-of-season clothes away to create more room. Cupboards should be cleaned and organized.
2. Personal items and clutterRemove personal photos, knickknacks, mementos, and any dated items to help “de-personalize” your home. This is as much for your security as it is for presentation. You can either get a jumpstart on your packing, or simply tuck things away for showings. De-clutter as much as possible; not everyone will see your knickknacks in the same light you do.
3. Remove valuables, prescription medications, collectibles and breakables
   Put these items into storage or take them with you when you leave the house (where possible).
4. The nose knows
   Research has shown that the smell of fresh-baked bread or chocolate-chip cookies are appealing and comforting to people. Garlic, onions or fish, not so much. Refrain from cooking meals that may leave offensive odors close to a showing. Bake something yummy, or use subtle air fresheners. Keep the fresheners light – remember that people have allergies.
5. Fix it
   Make any small functional repairs you may have been putting off, like dripping taps, leaky faucets, sticky doors, etc.
6. Light it up
   Ensure things are well-lit with as much natural light as possible, or strategically-placed lamps throughout the home. Adding mirrors can help with light play as well, and make rooms feel more open.
7. Furniture
   Try rearranging your furniture slightly with interesting angles and pulling it out from walls a few inches. This will help create a more interesting space. Use plants in colorful planters or baskets to fill in empty spaces and add accents.

Following these 7 simple tips will help you put your home’s best foot forward, and create a great first impression every time for potential buyers.