“Staging” is about setting up and decorating each room of your home so that it looks as attractive as possible to potential buyers.  Studies show that a property is more likely to sell quickly and for a better price if it is effectively staged.

The Basics….

De-Clutter  

People collect an amazing quantity of items. Consider this: if you haven't used it in over a year, you probably don't need it.

· Pack up those knickknacks

· Clean off everything on kitchen counters

· Think of this process as a head-start on the packing you will need to do anyway

De-Personalize  

Pack up those personal photographs and family heirlooms. Buyers can't see past personal artifacts, and you don't want them to be distracted. You want buyers to imagine their own photos on the walls, and they can't do that if yours are there.

 The Secrets….

Rearrange Bedroom Closets and Kitchen Cabinets  

Buyers love to snoop and will open closet and cabinet doors. Think of the message it sends if items fall out! Now imagine what a buyer believes about you if she sees everything organized. It says you probably take good care of the rest of the house as well. This can achieve this by de-cluttering and organizing your closets and cabinets.

Increase Horizontal Surface Space

Make sure desks, countertops, coffee tables, end tables, etc. are as   free of items as possible.  Give the impression that there’s lots of room available on horizontal surfaces.

Flowers

Fresh flowers or flowering plants placed in a couple of rooms, such as the kitchen and living room, can have a dramatic impact on how inviting that room looks.  Just don’t overdo it.

Don’t Be Daring When You Paint

You may love the idea of a bright purple & yellow combination in the family room, but not everyone will share your daring sense of style.  If you paint, stick to neutral colours.

Less is More

Be brutally honest about the amount of furniture you have in each room—including wall hangings.  Is there a desk, side table or piece you can put away in storage?  Think about ways to make each room more spacious.  Space is key!

Ultimately, the best staging advice is to use your common sense.  Put yourself in the shoes of a potential buyer as you walk through your home.  Ask yourself, “What changes will make this room even more attractive?”

Please feel free to call me if you would like me to recommend either

professional organizers or any other professionals

to help you prepare your house should you decide to sell it

613-858-1151