Pro Home Staging Tips: How to Sell Your Home for Top Dollar
To attract the most competitive offers, you must combine professional home staging with high-quality photography. First impressions are everything; putting your best foot forward is the most effective way to sell your home quickly and for the highest possible price.
Use these proven staging strategies to set the stage for a successful sale.
1. Boost Your Curb Appeal
You only get one chance to make a first impression. Many buyers will perform a “drive-by” before deciding to schedule a tour. Ensure your home looks inviting from the street by freshening up landscaping, cleaning the entryway, and ensuring the house number is visible.
2. Declutter to Create a “Blank Slate”
If you are serious about maximizing your home’s value, the clutter must go. Clear surfaces allow buyers to envision their own lives in the space.
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Pro Tip: If needed, use off-site storage to remove excess items. A clean, open space feels larger and more expensive.
3. Arrange Furniture for Flow and Conversation
Don’t just push furniture against the walls. Create inviting “conversational spaces” by using symmetrical arrangements. Using pairs—like matching lamps or chairs—creates a sense of balance and sophistication that looks excellent in professional real estate photography.
4. Evaluate and Refresh Your Flooring
Outdated or worn flooring can significantly increase your “days on market.”
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Deep Clean: At a minimum, have all carpets professionally cleaned.
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Refurbish: Consider refinishing wood floors or replacing old carpets.
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Style: Use area rugs to define spaces, but never use them to hide structural damage or “problem areas.”
5. Choose Sophisticated, Neutral Paint Colors
Now is not the time for “fun” accent colors. To appeal to the widest range of buyers, stick to rich mid-tone neutrals. These shades create a sophisticated backdrop that makes the home feel cohesive and “move-in ready.”
6. Define Every Room’s Purpose
Don’t let spare rooms become “junk rooms.” Each space should have a clear identity—whether it’s a dedicated home office, a guest suite, or a second living area. If a room is currently empty or cluttered, consider renting or borrowing furniture to showcase its potential.
7. Neutralize Pet Odors and Messes
Pet smells are a major deal-breaker. If you have pets, have your rugs professionally deep-cleaned and stay vigilant about vacuuming. During showings, ensure pet toys, beds, and treats are tucked away and out of sight.
8. Enhance Your Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor areas have become a top priority for modern homebuyers. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small condo balcony, “dress it up” with seating or plants. Creating an outdoor lifestyle adds square footage in the buyer’s mind.
9. The “Golden Rule”: Deep Clean Everything
Cleanliness is the most important staging tip. Buyers rarely look past dusty surfaces or dirty windows. We recommend a professional deep clean before your photography session to ensure every corner of your home sparkles.
10. Create Focal Points to Encourage Exploration
Keep buyers interested as they walk through the property. Place “eye-catchers” at the end of hallways, on window seats, or at the top of stairs. A piece of art, a vase of fresh flowers, or a colorful rug piques curiosity and encourages buyers to explore the entire house.