So you need to sell your home but do not have the budget for professional staging, these four low-cost, do-it-yourself staging tips will help you to create a space that sells:
No. 1: Cut the clutter
Collect boxes, grab some tape and start packing things that do not need to be on show to a potential purchaser. Clothes, books, toys, excess pots and pans… basically pack everything that you will not need for the next 3 months. Potential buyers will be opening closets and drawers and if it looks to them like there is not enough room for your things, they will assume that it will be difficult for them as well. Too much furniture can make a home look cluttered, go through your house and decide what you can live without, you can always ask friends if they will store items for you until the staging is over, or rent a cheap storage unit.
No. 2: Let the sunshine in
It is a good idea to open all window coverings completely including rolling blinds up all the way to allow people to see the view and let in light. Home buyers love light, bright rooms. Of course this does mean that you will have to ensure that your windows are clean both inside and out and window sills will need to be wiped down.
No. 3: Clean, then clean some more
Cleaning is essential, clean as much as you can as a clean house always gives the impression that the house is well maintained. Unfortunately cleaning once will not do and you will need to keep on top of it until your house sells. Knock down cobwebs, wipe counter tops, clean grout, mop floors, clean light fixtures, and it will be worth it in the end.
If cleaning bathtubs and toilets is simply not your area of expertise, hire a weekly cleaner. It is an investment but if it lessens your selling time it will be money well spent.
No. 4: Set the scene
If you want buyers to fall in love with your house the instantly? First impressions are important. Your lawn must be mowed and well kept, bushes must be trimmed, and flower beds must be weeded and topped with fresh mulch or bark. Add colorful flowers near the front door, in either flowerbeds or pots.
Selling your home is always a stressful time, especially if you want a quick sale and staging just adds to the list of things you have to do to sell. Professional home staging is an excellent way to showcase your home, however it is not always possible for everybody to do, so by following these simple steps you will be able to show your home in the best light possible to entice buyers quickly.
