The 10 Essential Steps Of Home Staging

Your 10-Step Staging Guide To a Successful Sale

For most people staging - rearranging furniture and decor - is the most fun and rewarding part of preparing a residence for sale. However, other “work” needs to be done before getting to that fun part! Things that are not necessarily enjoyable for everyone. Things that can bring up strong emotions and resistance.

For instance, decluttering can evoke a range of emotions, from nostalgia to anticipation. Sorting through belongings stirs up memories, each item carrying a story of its own. There's a bittersweet sentiment in letting go of possessions that have been part of daily life, yet there's also a palpable excitement about the fresh start ahead.

The staging process has a sense of closure to one chapter and the promise of new beginnings. It's a journey of emotional release and hopeful anticipation, as each item repaired, renovated, or just cleared out, paves the way for the next stage of life's adventure. Let’s take a look at the various steps involved in staging.

HOME STAGING STEPS

Step 1: Declutter and Depersonalize

The purpose of staging is to make a potential buyer see themselves living in your home. Your research to determine who that buyer might be will guide your staging decisions. For another person to imagine your home as theirs will mean removing all distractions and creating space.

So before diving into any decorative changes, the first step is to declutter and depersonalize the space. Remove any excess furniture, personal items, and clutter to create a clean and spacious environment. Pack away family photos, religious items, and other personal memorabilia to neutralize the space and make it more universally appealing.

Step 2: Deep Clean

Deep cleaning when selling a home is not just about scrubbing surfaces; it's a ritual of saying farewell to the space that has been your sanctuary and a canvas for memories. With each wipe and polish, there's an acknowledgment of the history embedded in every nook and cranny.

Look at deep cleaning as a meticulous process of uncovering hidden corners and restoring them to their pristine state, a symbolic cleansing of the past to make room for the future. Every gleaming surface and fresh scent symbolize cleanliness and a blank canvas for someone else's dreams. As a labor of love, it is a gesture of respect for the home that has sheltered dreams and witnessed laughter and tears, ready to embrace new occupants and stories.

Every surface should be spotless, from floors to ceilings. High-traffic areas, like kitchens and bathrooms, windows, carpets, and light fixtures need special attention. A clean, well-maintained home sends a positive message to buyers! It enhances the overall impression of the property.

Step 3: Make Repairs and Renovate

Visible repairs or updates have to be done. You can’t leave this to chance. This could include fixing leaky faucets, repairing chipped paint, replacing outdated fixtures, or refreshing worn-out flooring. While major renovations may not be necessary, minor touch-ups can make a significant difference in the perceived value of the property.

Depending on your targeted buyer, renovations may be in order. If your house is located in an upcoming, gentrified area where homeowners expect beautifully appointed homes, your kitchen from the eighties may have to be replaced by a contemporary one.

If more and more young families are moving into your neighbourhood, your pool could easily be a deterrent for a family with small children. You might want to think about what to do with it. Talk to your real estate agent and a contractor to get some feedback.

Step 4: Focus on Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home sets the tone for what buyers can expect inside. Enhance curb appeal by mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, planting flowers, and adding fresh mulch to flower beds. Consider giving the front door a fresh coat of paint, updating hardware, and adding welcoming touches such as a seasonal wreath or potted plants. You can find more information on first impressions here.

Step 5: Define Spaces

Clearly define the purpose of each room to help buyers visualize how they would utilize the space. Arrange furniture to highlight the functionality of each room while maximizing flow and space (this could mean that Grandpa’s old Lazyboy will have to go into storage…). Create cozy seating areas, designate dining areas, and showcase the potential of multipurpose rooms such as home offices or guest bedrooms.

Defining spaces also creates a flow that guides the viewer seamlessly through different areas of your home. This makes it easier for buyers to imagine their daily routines and activities within the space. A coherent flow makes a house feel inviting and harmonious. And, in turn, it will be more likely for a buyer to form an emotional connection with the property.

Step 6: Neutralize Decor

Adding warmth and personality to your home is important. At the same time, it's equally important to keep the decor neutral and universally appealing. Opt for a neutral color palette for walls, furniture, and accessories if possible. Bold colors or overly personalized decor can be distracting to potential buyers. Pops of color and texture can be added through throw pillows, rugs, and artwork to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Step 7: Maximize Natural Light

Lighting plays a crucial role in home staging! It can dramatically impact the look and feel of a space. Maximize natural light by opening curtains and blinds, trimming back foliage that obstructs windows, and ensuring that windows are clean.

Placing furniture and decor strategically makes rooms appear larger and brighter. A mirror here and there reflects light and will add to the feeling of brightness.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches

Once the foundational elements of home staging are in place, it's time to add the finishing touches that will elevate the overall presentation of the property. Think fresh flowers, luxurious towels in bathrooms, and tasteful decor accessories such as vases, throw blankets, and decorative trays. Pay attention to details, ensuring that every aspect of the home feels inviting and well-curated.

One word of caution: many people have allergies these days. Stay away from artificial fragrances. You don’t want to chase a potential buyer away!

Step 9: Create Inviting Outdoor Spaces

If the weather permits it, use your outdoor areas to highlight living spaces such as patios, decks, and gardens by arranging furniture that encourages relaxation and socializing. Add cushions, throws, and outdoor rugs to create a cozy atmosphere. Stage outdoor dining areas with table and place settings to showcase the potential for al fresco entertaining.

Step 10: Showcase Lifestyle

Ultimately, home staging is about selling a lifestyle as much as it is about selling a property. Highlight the lifestyle benefits of your home by staging it in a way that appeals to your target demographic. Whether it's highlighting a gourmet kitchen for foodies, creating a tranquil retreat in the master bedroom, or showcasing a versatile home office for remote workers, tailor your staging efforts to resonate with the desires and aspirations of potential buyers.

By following these ten essential steps, you can master the art of DIY home staging and maximize the appeal and marketability of your property. Each step plays a crucial role in creating a presentation that will please buyers and lead to a successful sale. With careful planning, attention to detail, and a bit of creativity, you can unlock the full potential of your home and make a lasting impression on prospective buyers.