9 DIY Home Staging Tips

 

During an open house, buyers explore the property before deciding whether or not to buy. It's the seller's job to make the home presentable and compelling through staging. Home staging is all about presenting the best version of the space in order to entice buyers to make high offers.

Home staging can be expensive; the cost ranges from $500 to $5,000, depending on the style and the size of the property. However, the results are always worth the investment. As a testament to that, most real estate agents believe that staging impacts the buyers' view of a home. For sellers hoping to save on the cost of staging while still maximizing the results, the following DIY home staging tips will do the job and lead to a swifter, more successful sale.

Decluttering is the most important first step of home staging. Removing clutter will lighten the mood and make the home feel more spacious and organized. Decluttering involves the removal of outdated or unused items, such as old electronics, paper receipts, miscellaneous items, and unnecessary furniture, to create a more inviting atmosphere. This process will help accentuate the home's beauty while bringing out the layout and the available space. This will help potential buyers envision a possible future within the home. In addition to the living room, the seller should go through each area of the house, identifying items that are no longer needed or don't contribute to the overall aesthetic.

The first thing interested buyers will see when they visit a house is, of course, its front. It's imperative that the exterior of the property makes a good impression so that buyers will want to explore further. Ensure that the home's exterior is clean and well-kept at every turn. Trimming overgrown hedges and trees and mowing lawns will help make the exterior look more polished and pristine. Additionally, decluttering the front porch, the deck, and the entryway will make the home more presentable, welcoming buyers inside.

Improving the quality of the exterior through landscaping will help buyers see your home in a better light. Incorporating colorful plants or flowers can add an air of vitality to the property and create an alluring, beautiful atmosphere. Reorganizing the front and back yards can also create an inviting space.

Cleaning has always been the easiest way to spruce up any environment. A thorough cleaning job removes grime and instantly makes the home feel more attractive and welcoming. So, this is an essential component of your DIY home staging efforts. Start by cleaning every room, including the garage and the basement, while dusting and wiping down cabinets, furniture, and countertops. While at it, pay close attention to hard-to-reach areas, such as corners and ceiling fans.

The windows and doors are another area that deserves extra attention since they are focal points of the home. The exterior, including the walls, the curb, the driveway, and outdoor living spaces, must also be free of grime. Every inch of the house should shine, giving buyers the impression that the home is well-kept and luxurious.

Bare walls can be off-putting to potential buyers. For that reason, invest in a few pieces of artwork to showcase in the living and dining room. This is a great way to add mood and texture to living spaces. While at it, remain as stylish as possible. The major drawback of this DIY home staging technique is that it can be counterproductive if done incorrectly. The best kinds of artwork are those that are neutral and depersonalized. Avoid using family, religious, cultural, or political artwork because it can come off as imposing.

Since the aim of staging is to present the best version of your home, it's essential to make sure that the lighting is impeccable. This means directing light towards areas that need to be accentuated and brightening dark corners. Also, make sure that all overhead lights are working.

Rearranging furniture is one of the easiest ways to make a space come alive. Ensure that the furniture is arranged in an appealing way to optimize the layout. The first step should be to ensure the arrangement facilitates the flow of space. Pathways should be clear and well-defined, and doorways and windows should be easily accessible. The arrangement should also highlight the functionality of each room, including the living room and the dining area.

While a lot of people like pets, there is a small percentage that isn’t a fan. Others have allergies, and the presence of pets during home showings will make them uncomfortable. Be sure to remove your pet from the premises during showings and store away their food bowls, beds, and toys. This is part of depersonalization efforts and will increase the appeal for potential clients.

Mirrors are a creative way to open up a space. Placing a mirror in hallways, smaller rooms, and tight areas can help increase the perceived size of the room by reflecting light and space. Mirrors can also help add interesting reflections and enhance colors. They can also help create focal points, which is why they are used above a fireplace. The trick is to use them strategically and to avoid overdoing it.

The sense of smell is closely connected to memory but can be overwhelming if it goes too far. Strong air fresheners and invasive perfumes should be avoided at all costs, as this will be off-putting to the homebuyers and make them wonder what you are trying to hide. Opt for a clean and fresh scent, such as vanilla, cinnamon, jasmine, and citrus.

Once you have accomplished these steps, you are ready to showcase your beautiful home to buyers. If you want to get started, work with a trusted Realtor to achieve the results you’ve been hoping for. Contact Dayna Summers at Boutique Real Estate today to get your home sold in no time.


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