Neighbor News
Home Staging Basics
Rather than an exhaustive list of tasks, here are a few core principles to keep in mind as you prepare your home for sale.
We've all seen those seemingly infinite lists of home staging tips. But to keep things simple, it might help to tackle your home-selling preparations with just a few clear precepts in mind. Apply these liberally throughout and you'll find yourself with a well-staged home.
1. CLEAN
- Clean as thoroughly as possible.
- Paint all scuffed or discolored walls and moldings, and replace discolored grout.
- Remove carpet if hardwood or tile floors beneath are in good condition. If floors aren’t in good condition, consider replacing carpet (as lifestyle journalist Marni Jameson has astutely remarked: “No one wants to move in on your old carpet”).
- Display clean towels, floor mats, bedspreads, and throws.
2. CLEAR
- Remove clutter and any furniture that gets in the way of easy movement throughout the house.
- Increase space and flow in all rooms as much as possible.
3. BRIGHTEN
- Remove heavy curtains and replace with white sheer curtains.
- Paint and carpet in light, neutral colors.
4. FIX
- Fix anything that’s broken, if possible.
- If it can’t be fixed, remove and/or replace it.