When listing your home for sale, you want to make sure that your preparation and presentation are on point. These two things alone can boost the value of your home. Why’s that? Well, for sellers, first impressions are everything. If you have potential buyers view your property, it’s crucial that their “first look” blows them away.
We reached out to Top Producing CENTURY 21 Award Agent, Meghan Shigo to share her tips and tricks for staging a home. Whether you’re a seller or a realtor, Meghan’s advice will be sure to benefit you. Check them out, below!
Natural Light: Make sure ALL windows are clean and open all blinds/curtains to let the natural light shine in. in the maximum amount of daylight.
Front Door: Make sure to place a new door mat and fresh flowers by the front door. First impressions are EVERYTHING.
Neutralize Your Color Palette: By incorporating a neutral color palette throughout your home, buyers can better visualize the addition of their own furniture and decor.
Kitchens and Baths: Kitchens and bathrooms will show better and appear larger if all items are cleared from the countertops. Make sure to have three decorative pieces max. If your cabinets are outdated, adding a fresh coat of paint and new hardware is an easy and inexpensive way to make them modern and bright. Purchase new bathmats and towels to complete the look.
Setting the Table is A Game Changer. Buyers often imagine hosting family gatherings in their new home, and the dining room plays a large role in that vision. Be sure the table is centered underneath the chandelier and centered on an area rug if you’re using one. If your dining room is small, remove all other furniture and leave only four chairs. Dress up the table using nice tableware and cloth napkins or a table runner and centerpiece (flowers preferred).
Rearrange Your Furniture: In your living room, use a symmetrical seating arrangement to create a cozy conversation area. If the room is small, remove some of the furniture to make it feel larger. For small bedrooms, remove all the furniture except the bed, bedside tables and a dresser. If it’s a large room, add one or two chairs and a table to create a seating area.
Highlight Your Backyard’s Best Features: Don’t forget about staging your home’s outdoor areas to help buyers imagine how they could utilize the space. Even a small patio can become a selling feature with the addition of a cafe table and chairs. Add a tray of plates and coffee cups to help buyers envision a peaceful breakfast on the back porch.
Meghan Shigo stages each and every one of her listings, it’s been an important element that has contributed to her success for three decades. If you’re thinking of selling your home or have a new listing, don’t forget Meghan’s helpful tips on home staging!