Lights, Camera, Action--Stage Time!

While at work, you probably dress differently than if you were, say, spending a lazy Sunday afternoon at home or a night on the town. If you work in a corporate environment, you most likely dress to project a certain image--clean, well-groomed, appropriately accessorized and looking your best. Of course, this doesn't mean you can't incorporate your personal style.


Think of that analogy when preparing your home for sale. You are dressing your home for work! You want prospective buyers to see your property at its best and project an image of a lovely, well maintained home that will appeal to the greatest number of buyers and offend no one. It's not necessary to completely redecorate, but there are certain things that are a must to attract buyers.


The four basic rules are:


CLEAN: Your home must sparkle, whether you do it yourself or hire professionals. No exceptions! Even if your home is the best buy on the block, buyers will be turned off by your dirty dishes, laundry, and the lingering aroma of last night's boiled cabbage.


REPAIR: You must fix those "little things" that you planned to get around to later. Buyers will notice stained carpets, a door that sticks, dripping faucets, etc., and they will perceive even the smallest item as indication of an entire home that has not been well maintained. Even if the buyer doesn't notice something, a home inspector will.


DECLUTTER: Buyers must be able to see your home and imagine themselves living there. Toys, papers, holiday decorations, etc., should be tossed, put away, or placed in temporary storage.


DE-PERSONALIZE: Make your home neutral so buyers can imagine where they would display their own things. Political or religious items are certain to turn off whole groups of buyers. Personal collections, family photos, and other memorabilia should be put away. A properly staged home will look almost like a hotel lobby or model home: well appointed but impersonal.

Dress your home for success!


Kristine Baugh, Accredited Home Stager