The first impression is critical if you want to sell your property for the highest price. Prepare before you launch the property to market! The list below covers the basics but I am happy to personally access your unique property and offer practical and low cost suggestions. Staging works!
- Emotionally Disconnect – Prepare and package your home as a product to be marketed to a broad range of potential buyers. It has to win the beauty contest.
- Declutter to Create a Sleek Look – Clear out and restyle bookcases. Remove items from counter. Recycle old electronics and paint cans. Clear out and organize kitchen and bathroom cabinets as well as all closets. All hangers should be the same and clothing facing in the same direction. Pack up your out of season clothing to help closets appear roomier.
- Depersonalize and Neutralize – Remove dated window treatments. Store unneeded furniture, old world art and personal photos. Patch and paint walls a neutral color. Off white is great! Remove dated or dark rugs. Update bed linens with light, simple neutrals and replace towels with new white ones. Go for the minimal, white spa feel in the bathroom.
- Perform Needed Repairs – Repair any leaks. Paint ceilings or walls that have old water staining. Plane doors that don’t close properly. Repair anything that isn’t functioning as it should that a buyer will notice.
- Update Lighting – Instantly update lamps by replacing old shades with light-colored current shapes. Or replace fixtures with current models. Increase wattage as much as possible in all fixtures. Keep it simple!
- Attack Odors at their Source – Remove the source of all odors especially pets and moisture. Nothing say “go away” to buyers more than a stinky house. You may need to ask someone who doesn’t live in your home to give an opinion. Olfactory glands have a way of adjusting to odors so you cannot smell them after repeated exposure. I once had a listing that buyers wouldn’t even enter due to the odor but the owners couldn’t smell it.
- Ruthlessly Clean – Deep cleaning inside and out (don’t forget decks and patios) is the best way to have your home look and smell fresh. Caulk and grout where needed.
- Evaluate your Plants – Remove dead leaves, trim and replant in nice ceramic planters. Plastic pots have to go. If your plant isn’t healthy, size appropriate and stunning, it should be removed.
- Turn Up the Curb Appeal – Freshen exterior curb appeal – pressure wash, paint trim and front door, consider fresh door hardware, plant in planters and add fresh mulch. Trim back overgrown shrubs or branches. Repair walkways if necessary.
Here is a review from a recent client who sold a condo in Watertown:
Deb and I worked together on a plan to stage my property for pictures and open houses. Deb was really helpful in giving specific advice on decluttering and furniture placement, which made things look much larger and brighter! She even brought over a couple finishing decor items to further polish the look. I believe the staging was instrumental in selling my property and was very happy with the advice I received! – Anne S.
