Image via Designlovefest
One of my favorite pastimes is arranging and rearranging rooms. I’ve loved this ever since I was a little girl. I remember styling my American Girl doll Kirsten’s dining table so it was just right. And subsequently getting pissed if someone moved even so much as a (fake) berry.
I also moved. A lot. We lived in five different houses by the time I was seventeen. So I’ve been around the block once or twice when it comes to staging and selling homes. If you’re looking for tips on how to stage your home, particularly if you’re trying to sell it, then read on for some game-changing advice.
1. BEFRIEND BINS
The number one thing you are going to have to accept is that you will have have to get rid of a lot of shit. Whether this means taking the opportunity to do a major purge or simply boxing up items to store until you move into your new home, remember that nobody wants to see your stuff. You want to provide a blank canvas for potential buyers to paint themselves into. There is, undoubtedly, a fine balance you should aim to strike between giving your space personality and ensuring others can envision themselves living there. After all, nobody wants to feel like they’re entering a sterile, white-walled room. But even more so, nobody wants to see your dental floss in your bathroom cabinet either. Enter: bins. Big, small. Cute, functional. Hidden, displayed. Whatever the need, there is a bin to match. Get some big, durable storage containers for large items you plan to hold onto for your new home. Then get some cute smaller ones for everyday objects you want to hide quickly (keys, chargers) if your agent wants to show your home. Most people live in their homes while trying to sell them and stylish storage is going to be your number one best friend for keeping clutter at bay on a moment’s notice.
2. LET THERE BE LIGHT
Lighting is key people. Avoid cool, harsh bulbs and opt for softer light. Also, make sure you have some cute lamps on hand. If you can, avoid overhead lights and rely on your lamps and natural light. This will make your space seem warm and inviting.
3. FRAME YOUR WINDOWS
Windows are a big factor when it comes to buying homes. Subconsciously most people are drawn to the natural light they provide. Use the opportunity to frame your windows with neutral curtains and simple hardware. Use this tutorial on how to hang them properly. You want your windows to appear as large as possible so make sure to hang them as high as you can while ensuring they also skim the floor. Curtains that don’t touch the floor = pants that are floods.
4. LOVE YOUR LINENS
Make. Your. Bed. I know you don’t want to, but you have to. An unmade bed is one of the most off-putting things a potential buyer can come across. Get up earlier. It will take you only five minutes, I swear. And fluff the shit outta your pillows. Also, most of the world likes to toss their wet towel over the door and call it a day. Fight this urge. Hang your towel nicely on a towel bar every time you use it. Not only will this make your bathroom seem polished and pulled together but you’ll also get yourself into the handy habit for your new home.
5. FINISHING TOUCH
Ensure your home doesn’t come off as sterile by placing a few simple touches around the house. A small stack of interesting books, a lovely flower arrangement, or a pretty handbag hanging on a wall hook will do the trick. Nothing is worse than a home that doesn’t look lived-in. That being said, make sure your home is pulled together every time you walk out the door. Chances are you won’t be able to run home and refresh the place if your agent calls to show it. Wake up fifteen minutes earlier every day to make sure you have time to fold your towels and fluff your pillows before you run out the door. And always wipe down your bathroom counter.
Have you sold a home before? What are your tricks for keeping your space pulled together while still living there?
These are great tips!!