04 Oct HOW TO STAGE YOUR HOME TO SELL FAST

Staging, is presenting your home for sale, in its best and most attractive manner, in order to appeal to the highest number of potential buyers, a wider market and will help you  sell more quickly and for a good price. 
It is not difficult or expensive, but in reality, many home owners find it difficult, because it is often hard to see something objectively, when they are dealing with a personal asset, such as their home.  Here are some tips to consider: 
Externally:  Stand outside your home and look at the property and street scene and consider doing the following; 

• Reposition any missing or slipped slates that may have occurred during the winter months.  Fix any leaking or faulty gutters and clear any build up of leaves.
• Jet wash the drive, removing any green algae growth.  Reposition wheelie bins, out of sight.
• If there are overhanging tree branches or bushes blocking paths or shading windows, prune them back, to allow a greater visual impression. 
• Clear the driveway and front garden of refuse.
• Ensure that the window panes are clean, sparkling and damage free.  If necessary, consider giving the window sills a fresh coat of paint.
• The front door is considered to be the heart of the house, so does it need painting or given new door furniture ?  If necessary, consider replacing the door.
• Consider dressing the front garden with colourful bedding plants,  pots, or even hanging baskets. 
• If your front garden stores your prize caravan or boat, position these off site during the marketing period. 

Internally:  Consider doing the following points; 

• Ensure the home is always clean and tidy – de-clutter if necessary.  Create space, even if it means placing surplus furniture in the garage.
• Buyers like light and airy rooms, so switch on main lights, side lights and kitchen lights – anything which gives the room a glow. 
• Dress your home with simple items such as flowers in the lounge, a bowl of fruit in the kitchen and air freshener in the bedrooms to create the right ambiance.
• Ensure that there are no pungent smells from last night’s dinner.  Pet smells can also put off viewers, if they are not pet lovers themselves. 
• Are there any rooms which need to be redecorated to a neutral colour?  Pastel colours will appeal to a wider market.
• If the hall or stair carpet is stained or tatty, it may be worth renewing it.  Viewers, within the first 10 seconds of entering the hall, subconsciously form an opinion if they like the house and if it has the ‘tingle’ factor.

• When a viewing is arranged, make sure the driveway is free from any cars. 
• If it is winter, put on the heating, so that your home feels warm and inviting.
• If possible, don’t have your pets in the home when potential buyers come around.  The same applies to family members, visitors and trades people.  Even better, give the keys to the Estate Agent and go out for a walk. 

            Consider the above points  and you will be rewarded for your efforts.