When done right, home staging is one of the most effective strategies a seller can use. Staging is the art of cleaning, organizing, and decorating a home to appeal to the broadest pool of potential buyers. The results? More interest, higher offers, and faster sales.
Because staging can be time-consuming, it’s important to focus your energy where it matters most. Here are some essential dos and don’ts to help you make a great first impression:
✅ Do: Remove Clutter
A clean and organized space always looks more inviting. Start by decluttering every room—less is more when it comes to www. Removing excess items will make your home feel more spacious and livable. Consider renting a storage unit or donating what you no longer need. You may also want to remove extra furniture to open up the space.
❌ Don’t: Hide Clutter in the Garage or Attic
Buyers will likely peek into every storage space, including your garage, basement, or attic. Piling clutter into these areas can make them feel cramped and reduce their appeal. Keep storage spaces tidy, open, and as empty as possible.
✅ Do: Maximize Natural Light
Light makes everything look better. Open all curtains and blinds before showings, and consider trimming any trees or bushes that block sunlight. Clean your windows and light fixtures, and add floor lamps if any rooms still feel dark.
❌ Don’t: Use Bright Colors or Bold Patterns
While you might love bold wallpaper or vibrant colors, buyers may not. Loud patterns or non-neutral tones can be distracting. Repainting in soft, neutral colors allows buyers to better envision themselves in the space.
✅ Do: Give Every Room a Clear Purpose
Each room should showcase a distinct and functional use. If you’ve been using a spare room as a catch-all, consider turning it into a guest bedroom or home office. A clear layout helps buyers understand how to use the space.
❌ Don’t: Display Personal Decor
Buyers need to picture themselves living in the home—not you. Replace personal photos, unique collections, or personalized artwork with more neutral, universally appealing decor.
✅ Do: Deep Clean Everything
First impressions are everything. Make sure your home is spotless before taking listing photos or hosting a showing. Scrub kitchen and bathroom surfaces, clean carpets and floors, dust baseboards and fans, and wash the windows. Let in fresh air when possible.
❌ Don’t: Feel Pressured to Buy New Furniture
You don’t need brand-new furniture to stage effectively. Use throw blankets or covers to refresh worn pieces. If necessary, consider short-term rentals through your agent’s staging contacts.
✅ Do: Add Finishing Touches
A few thoughtful details can bring warmth and charm to a staged home. Think cozy throw pillows, a fresh vase of flowers, or a bowl of fruit in the kitchen—small things that help a home feel welcoming.
❌ Don’t: Ignore Small Repairs
Leaky faucets, chipped paint, or cracked caulking might seem minor, but buyers notice. Tackle these small fixes before showings—they’re often low-cost but high-impact.
✅ Do: Boost Curb Appeal
The exterior of your home sets the tone. Clean the porch, mow the lawn, weed the garden, and tidy up the driveway and walkway. A new welcome mat or a few potted plants can make a big difference.
❌ Don’t: Take On Major Renovations
Large renovations rarely provide a worthwhile return before selling. Unless absolutely necessary, skip the big projects. Focus instead on affordable upgrades that polish your home’s appearance and help it stand out.
Final Thoughts
Staging your home can be a challenge, but the payoff is worth it. Focus on creating a clean, bright, neutral, and functional space that allows buyers to imagine their future there. And if you’re unsure where to start, your real estate agent can guide you through the process or connect you with staging professionals to help your home shine.