How Do I Stage My Home?

The new buzz word in real estate is staging. What is it? It's preparing the home for showings. Some are now "staging" experts - creating an atmosphere of optimal presentation.

Many agents have done this for years and granted some are better at it than others. But, of course, most of my messages here do point out that all agents are not created equal.

Remember how we think about first impressions. You've only got that first time to make your home the object of someone desire.

• Landscaping - Prune bushes, remove any plant debris, maintain the lawn adding a few colorful plants would be helpful.
• Home - Take a good look as you approach. Do you see crumbling sidewalks, missing shutters, peeling paint, broken windows? And how's the roof?

Today's buyer is interested in several things. They do not want a property that requires work. Properties with lots of light and space are winners.

Paint - decors of today are not color shy, but unless they have your color scheme in mind, neutrals work best. If they are scuffed and marred, repaint them. The cost of paint is an inexpensive fixup.

Carpet - neutrals work best. It's also a good idea to have them cleaned.

Furniture - less is more. Store it, sell it, remove it. The objective is to create spaciousness in every room.

Personal Objects - you may be proud to display your hobbied collection, or personal photos, but it is best to remove them. We want them to picture themselves in your space without the competition.

Clutter - remove half of the clothes in your closets, lots of the food from your pantry, and any items on your kitchen and bathroom counters, clear out your basement. Create a clear view.

Drapery - remove heavy draperies that restrict light.

Light - clean your windows and make sure lighting fixtures work, and have sufficient wattage.

Things that we become used to in our own homes can be offensive to a potential buyer. Clients often comment on odors that they notice during a showing from pets, cooking, smoking, hobbies, etc. Eliminate them. Sprays and candles won't do here, but heavy-duty cleaning will.

If your appliances are old and there are coats of dust on your furnace, water heater, etc. a potential buyer will assume that they have not been maintained.

Make the effort to stage. Your home was a big investment for you, and it's a big investment for the next buyer. The impression you make can put you steps ahead of your competition and additional dollars in your pocket.