Here are some pointers on how to stage your home to maximize sale profits. Why not make an appointment with me today to focus on and apply these proven money makers to your home?  You'll be amazed at how fast your home sells! 

It's a challenge to get top dollar for your home in an unpredictable market. Real Estate Agents will tell you that a staged home sells more quickly, and for a higher price than a home that has not been merchandised to sell. With minimal investment, some elbow grease, my creativity and trained eye, you can stage your home, increasing your chances of a quick sale at the price you want. 

Buyers are attracted to a home that is spacious, light-filled, uncluttered, well maintained and clean. Most potential buyers prefer a neutral space they can move right into without the thought of a lot of work.

Start with a critique of your entire home from the sidewalk to the back fence.  Go through each room and outside area to create your "To Do" list. Be critical and observant, looking at your home as if you were a potential buyer.  FOCUS: Increase space and light, eliminate distracting clutter, and make sure everything works.  Check all of the following areas, and follow my suggested solutions where they pertain to your home. 

Exterior

·        Fertilize lawn or replace tired lawn with sod.

·        Trim shrubs, trees and edge lawn.

·        Clear walkway to front door.

·        No cars, boats or trailers on driveway or in front of the house on viewing days. Store away hoses, trashcans, recycling bins and bikes.  No garage sales on viewing days, etc.

·        Wash windows.

·        Replace dated house numbers.

·        Plant colorful inexpensive annuals along walkways and on either side of front door.

·        Weed and rake top soil, or cover flowerbeds with bark for an even look.

Entrance

·        Clear off porch; remove dead plants. Display plants in matching clay pots.

·        Replace doormat.

·        Clean or replace light fixture.

·        Polish or replace tarnished brass doorknob, kick-plate, doorbell.

Front hall

·        Remove any furniture crowding the space.

·        Leave lights on and use maximum wattage bulbs.

·        Hang a mirror instead of artwork to reflect light.

·        Remove area rugs, runners or plastic protectors (to expand space).

·        Notice smells. Clean carpet, drapes and upholstery to remove smoke or pet smells.

·        Clean out hall closet. It's often opened by a prospective buyer.

Family and living rooms

·        Open curtains and turn on lights.

·        Remove extra furniture, accessories, and any dead or sickly plants.

·        Lay logs in fireplace; add pine cones in fall or winter.

·        Remove old fireplace screen.

·        Leave only a few items on the mantel.

·        Remove religious and political objects, limit sports trophies and family photos.

·        Remove magazines and newspapers.

·        Replace or professionally clean carpet.

Dining Room

·        Remove any leaves from the table.

·        Leave 4 chairs around table and store extras, or put them against the wall on the side of a breakfront or buffet.

·        Don’t use a tablecloth, placemats or set table.

·        Put a simple centerpiece on table.

·        Wash or replace chandelier, make sure all bulbs work.

·        Reduce clutter in buffet.

Kitchen

·        Clean until it sparkles.

·        Paint dark cabinets white.

·        Replace outdated handles or knobs.

·        Expose as much counter space as possible; store appliances away.

·        Remove refrigerator magnets and bulletin boards.

·        Scrub or replace sink.

·        Add a plant, basket of fruit, and /or a vase of flowers.

Bedrooms

·        Store away excess furniture and clutter.

·        Replace bedspread and pillows, if necessary.

·        Leave 1 to 3 decorative items on dressers, but no more.

·        Remove theft temptations: jewelry boxes, prescription drugs, collections.

·        Clean out closet.

·        Add a healthy live plant or vase of flowers.

·        In kid’s rooms: remove tacked up posters, loose artwork.

Bathrooms

·        Paint dark cabinets white.

·        Replace outdated knobs or pulls.

·        Remove shower curtain or get new one.

·        Leave tub enclosure open and clean glass of soap scum and mineral deposits.

·        Shine or replace faucets.

·        Clear off countertops; display basket of potpourri, soaps or towels.

·        Add a healthy plant or vase of flowers.

·        Remove area rugs, toilet seat cover or tank set.

·        Store trashcan and tissue boxes.

·        Replace old toilet seat.

·        Replace old vinyl flooring.

·        Purchase new towels.

Garage

·        Tidy stored items.

·        Remove hazards to visitors.

·        Remove oil spots from concrete, or paint floor.

Backyard

·        Trim overgrown plants and remove debris and stored items.

·        Move barbecue to side of house.

·        Arrange garden furniture. Use wood, metal or cement furniture—no plastic.

·        Remove empty pots, dead plants, and tools.

·        Put clay pots of flowers in groupings near door, by furniture or pool.

·        Repair or power wash deck and any concrete patio slabs.

·        Add new bark or other mulch ground cover to flower beds. 

Copyright R. T. Design 2001

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