Getting ready to sell your home? Congratulations! This is an exciting time, and with the right staging, you can help buyers fall in love with your home the moment they walk through the door. The goal is simple—make your home feel welcoming, spacious, and move-in ready. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank to do it!
Did you know that 47% of buyers’ agents say staging influences how buyers view a home? And a whopping 82% say it helps buyers picture themselves living there! Staging is big business, but you don’t have to spend a fortune. With these 10 DIY home staging tips, you can make your home look professionally staged—and more importantly, ready to sell!
1. The Great Decluttering!
Think of this as a pre-move purge! Pack, toss, donate! Closets, cabinets, and even the garage—nothing is off-limits. Clean, clutter-free spaces appear larger and more inviting. Buyers will peek inside your closets and cabinets, and if they’re packed full, they’ll assume your home lacks storage. Keep countertops clear too—if they’re crowded with small appliances and knick-knacks, buyers may think your kitchen doesn’t have enough cabinet space.
2. Depersonalize the Space
We love Aunt Gertie, but potential buyers don’t need to see her portrait on your wall. Remove personal photos, trophies, and collections—anything that makes it feel like someone else’s home. The goal is to create a neutral, inviting space where buyers can envision themselves living.
3. Clean Like Your Sale Depends on It!
Because it does! Deep clean every nook and cranny—baseboards, corners, and especially the bathroom. Don’t forget to replace any old, stained caulking around the tub. A spotless home signals to buyers that it’s been well cared for.
4. Have You Gone Nose Blind?
We all remember that famous commercial about going “nose blind.” Pet odors, teenage hockey gear, or even cooking smells can linger without you realizing it. Skip the overpowering air fresheners—opt for light, fresh scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or lavender. And don’t be afraid to ask a friend (or someone with a keen nose!) to do a sniff test after cleaning.
5. Let There Be Light!
Open those curtains! Natural light makes a home feel bright and welcoming. Replace burnt-out bulbs, add lamps where needed, and turn on all the lights before a showing. A dark home feels uninviting—let the sunshine in!
6. Paint It Neutral!
Yes, buyers can paint after moving in, but most don’t want to. Some even skip viewing a home just because of the paint color! A fresh coat of neutral paint makes your home feel move-in ready and appeals to a wider range of buyers.
7. Add a Touch of Life
Fresh flowers, houseplants, and fruit bowls make a home feel more inviting. If you struggle to keep plants alive (no judgment here!), consider high-quality artificial greenery for the same effect.
8. Boost That Curb Appeal
Your home has just three seconds to make a first impression! A peeling front door, overgrown garden, or faded paint can turn buyers off before they even step inside. Keep the yard tidy, touch up exterior paint, and make sure the entrance is welcoming.
9. Arrange Furniture for Flow
Rooms should feel spacious and functional. Too much furniture can make a space feel cramped. Consider removing a bulky chair or repositioning furniture to create a natural, open flow. Buyers should be able to picture their own furniture in the space.
10. Set the Stage!
Wonder why home makeover shows always stage the dining table? Because it makes the space feel warm and inviting.A set dining table helps buyers imagine themselves entertaining or enjoying family dinners. Fresh linens, fluffy towels, and small finishing touches go a long way in making your home feel like a dream home.
Final Thoughts
Staging might seem like a lot of work, but taking it one step at a time makes all the difference. Plus, getting family and friends involved can turn it into a fun project! When I downsized, I passed along heirlooms to my kids, and now I love seeing them in their homes—it made the process even more rewarding. But I also know firsthand how overwhelming the process can feel. If you're unsure where to start or need expert guidance, you're not alone! Whether you’re preparing your home for sale, looking for tailored advice, or just need someone to talk to who's been through it, our team is here to help.
By following these DIY staging tips, you’ll make your home a buyer magnet! Want more staging advice or a FREE home evaluation? Let’s chat!
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✉️ brendak@brendak.ca
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