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8 Seconds

As a buyer steps inside, that’s it….you have Eight Seconds for them to form their first opinion…

You want them to feel as if they are making a grand entrance.  Even if you do not have a sizable foyer, you can improve the entryway of your home by removing clutter and making a clear path to the best room of the house. You can do this by using a floor runner or eye-catching art or accessories.

 You’ll want to show the best room first, so they are excited enough to see the remainder of the house.

Here’s a great checklist for simple yet effective home staging suggestions.

  • Clean up – Cleaning every room from top to bottom is a must, including closets and cabinets. 

 Kitchen and bath should be absolutely spotless.

 Remove excess small appliances in the kitchen.  Make sure all major appliances are working.  Clean the oven and refrigerator inside and out.  Remove magnets and reminders from the refrigerator door.

 

 Remove stains from bathroom fixtures, repair dripping faucets and polish mirrors.  Keep the toilet lid down!  Wash and fluff bathroom rugs, hang fresh towels. 

 

  • De-clutter and De-personalize – Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your space. Help them by removing personal items, pictures and knick-knacks from walls and tables.   Keep all closets organized.  The idea is to leave a blank canvas for buyers to fill in with their own ideas.

 

  • Open Windows – Unless it’s cold or noisy outside, open the windows and let in some fresh air, especially if your home has pets. If you occupy your home on an occasional basis, it is important to freshen up the house every time you visit. 

 

  • Make it Cozy – Check the thermostat to make sure potential buyers are comfortable enough to linger. Too hot or too cold, buyers won’t spend enough time in the home to start making it their own.

 

  • Lighten Up – Make your home feel bright and alive! Pull open window coverings and turn on the lights….even the ones over the appliances and in closets.

 

  • Don’t forget the basement and garage!- These spaces are important because it shows potential additional storage space in the house.  With this in mind, it is important to keep these spaces clean and organized as well.  If it’s possible, try to keep the car space in the garage free of items.  Give the buyer the opportunity to picture their own car in the space.

 

  • Make Yourself Scarce – Prospective buyers need to feel free to explore and tend to prefer it when the current homeowner is not present. That’s why it is in your best interest to leave the home-showings in the hands of the real estate professional.

Perception is Reality.  Staged homes are perceived to be comfortable, attractive, and well cared for, which is why this a valuable exercise when you want your home to stand out in a buyer’s mind for all the right reasons.  A few quick fixes and some attention to detail can go a long way toward impressing most prospects. 

First impressions are so hard to break…..so you might need to get busy if you want to get sold!

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