In this turbulent housing market, it’s difficult to predict when a home might sell. Some are snapped up within hours while others languish for months. If you’re hosting an open home or the real estate agent will be bringing through potential buyers, investing in a bit of home staging can be the difference between a sale or another month on the market.
Home staging involves small renovations, redecoration, arranging furniture and clearing up clutter to make a house look more desirable to potential buyers. You can hire special “home staging professionals” to arrange your furniture and suggest repairs and renovations, but there is plenty you can do by yourself for very little money to make your home more presentable.
Studies show furnished homes sell quicker than vacant ones, as it’s easier for a potential buyer to imagine living in a home if they see someone else living there. However, it’s important to minimize mess and clutter, as this gives the buyer a bad impression.
Clean off tables, benches and other surfaces to the barest minimum. Wash the dirty dishes and put them away. Tidy away toys and laundry. Remember a prospective buyer will want to look in closets and cupboards.
Rearrange furniture to make the best use of space and make rooms appear larger. Strategically placing mirrors in smaller spaces will make them appear larger.
Consider the market you’re selling to, and decorate accordingly. If you’re advertising your home as a modern space, you’ll want to paint over any 70s wallpaper.
Home staging extends to the exterior and garden. Tidy up the lawns and gardens and put away all your tools. Sweep the path and clean the outside of the house. Your home should look pristine and appealing from the street.
Home staging takes very little effort or money, but can transform your home and turn a maybe into a sale.