Part 2: Ask a Professional – Declutter and Stage Your Home to Sell!
Picking up where we left off in Part 1, we’ve established the importance of curb appeal in creating a positive first impression for potential buyers, if you missed it click here to read it. Now, let’s head indoors with real estate expert Brandy McCormick, REALTOR/Salesperson with Property Elite,LLC! to unlock the secrets of transforming your house into a blank canvas that buyers can envision as their future dream home!
Brandy’s Secret Weapon: The Power of Scent
Did you know that potential buyers make decisions within the first five minutes of entering a home? That’s right, and believe it or not, a significant part of that decision can be influenced by smell! While fresh paint and sparkling floors are important, addressing any lingering odors is crucial.
Here are some tips from Brandy to ensure your home smells fresh and inviting:
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Neutralize pet odors: If you have furry friends, consider moving litter boxes to a well-ventilated area or even outside during showings. Regular carpet cleaning and baking soda sprinkled on furniture can also help eliminate pet dander and musty smells.
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Open windows for natural ventilation. Let fresh air circulate throughout the house to remove any lingering cooking smells or stale air.
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Avoid artificial air fresheners. Strong scents can be overpowering and even mask underlying issues. Opt for natural solutions like bowls of white vinegar or fresh-cut lemons placed strategically throughout the house.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere for potential buyers, leaving a lasting positive impression. This fresh, clean slate is the perfect foundation for the next step: creating a staged space.
Decluttering: Creating a Blank Canvas
Imagine walking into a potential new home, but instead of picturing yourself relaxing on the couch, you’re overwhelmed by the current owner’s extensive movie collection overflowing the shelves. That’s the power of clutter! When it comes to selling your house, potential buyers need to be able to envision themselves living in the space. Brandy recommends decluttering each room ruthlessly to create a clean and neutral canvas. Here are her top tips:
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Room by Room: Approach decluttering in manageable chunks. Start with one room and work your way through the house.
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Be Ruthless: Sort through your belongings and ask yourself: “Have I used this in the past year?” If not, donate it, sell it, or toss it.
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Focus on Surfaces: Clear off countertops, tables, and shelves. Potential buyers want to see the size and functionality of the space, not your personal belongings.
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Pack it Up: Pack away anything that’s not essential for everyday living. This includes seasonal décor, family photos, and knick-knacks.
Staging Secrets: Show Off Your Home’s Potential
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to stage your home. Staging involves arranging furniture and décor in a way that highlights the best features of each space and creates a sense of flow. Here are Brandy’s secrets to staging success:
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Neutral is Key: Stick with a neutral color palette for walls, furniture, and décor. This will make the rooms feel more spacious and appeal to a wider range of buyers.
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Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to create conversation areas and designated spaces for dining and relaxing. Avoid overcrowding rooms; potential buyers need to imagine their own furniture fitting comfortably.
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Less is More: Don’t over decorate! Aim for a curated look with a few well-placed pieces that showcase the style of the home.
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Light it Up: Natural light is best, so open curtains and blinds during showings. Add lamps in strategic locations to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
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Welcome the Senses: Consider placing a bowl of fresh fruit on the counter or a vase with fresh flowers on the dining table. Pleasant scents can enhance the overall impression, but avoid overpowering fragrances.
By following Brandy’s decluttering and staging tips, you can transform your house from a cluttered representation of your life into a blank canvas that allows potential buyers to see themselves living there. In the final part of our series, we’ll explore some tips to help you pick the right realtor to ensure the perfect experience when buying or selling a home. Stay Tuned!
