Staging a Home to Sell

I hope you got some useful tips from part 1 of Nina's guest blogs.  As promised, here is part 2.  There are really great ideas for anyone considering a move to a 55+ new home community in here.  Don't forget to visit our website to see what's new at McKeeBuilders.com 

In my last post I addressed what I refer to as, the 'Where do I begin' phase in selling your home.  I left off with telling you the next important step in doing that would be 'Staging your home,' and I would deal with that in my next blog. So, here goes.  'Staging' plays a pivotal role in ensuring that your home will sell before you actually put it on the market.  Professional Stagers are good at what they do, their price tag bears that out.  As an  experienced Professional Organizer I can help you achieve the same results more cost efficiently.  Below is an outline on staging your home and property to sell, more often than not, at your full asking price:

•   Curb appeal is the most important aspect in staging your home.  We all know ‘first impressions are lasting’.  That being said, what is the condition of your home's entire exterior?  Is your roof in good shape?  Does anything need to be power washed?  i.e.: your homes framework, whether Stone, Brick, Vinyl or Wood. How about Windows, Gutters, Patios, Driveways and Walkways?  Is your landscaping eye-catching or an 'Eyesore?  All of this is what gives your home great ‘curb appeal.’  And, what prospective buyers will see first when they pull up.  Make sure your entire exterior is a precursor and a good reflection on your interior. 

•   As I indicated in my previous article, a bitter enemy for any home is clutter, especially one on the market!  Remove as much clutter from your home as possible.  This includes closets, cabinets, and any room that has a door.  Keep in mind, when buyers are doing a walk-through, they will open all doors.  Make sure all trash, things to donate or recycle and everything you are not keeping is out-of-the-way or disposed of.

•   If you have decided to add a fresh coat of paint to walls or cabinets, keep it fresh and simple by using a warm neutral color which will open up space.  If you would like to add a ‘spark’ of color, limit it to one accent wall such as behind a bed.

•   When you have donated or removed all unwanted furniture, reposition the furniture you're keeping by ‘floating’ the pieces away from the walls.  This ensures good traffic flow.  

•   Accessories are important, but don’t over do it.  Your goal is to impart an atmosphere of a house that is more of a home; this can be achieved by placing family photos, personal items and knick-knacks throughout.  Keep in mind, ‘less is more.’  

•   Make sure your home is well lit.  If need be, add overhead lighting or lamps where necessary.  

•   Fresh flowers and lit candles work wonders.

Next time we'll deal with the most dreaded task of all...the move itself. 

Remember, if you are feeling overwhelmed, I am just a phone call away.

Written by Nina Bowdler, Professional Organizer, Divine Intervention. 

Nina can be reached via e-mail at nina@thedivineorganizer.com