Staging Prep Guide: Maximize Appeal and Sell Your Home Quickly

Getting your home market-ready is an essential step toward attracting buyers and securing the best possible price. Use this staging guide to highlight your property’s strengths and create an inviting space that appeals to prospective buyers. Remember: the goal is to present a clean, fresh, and clutter-free environment. Let’s make your home shine!

Exterior: First Impressions Matter

The outside of your home is the first thing buyers see—let’s make it memorable!

• Lawn Care: Keep the lawn neatly mowed and landscaping trimmed and weed-free.
• Pressure Wash: Clean siding, gutters, walkways, and driveways to remove dirt and grime.
• Outdoor Spaces: Arrange outdoor furniture and décor for a clean, welcoming look. Don’t forget to tidy rugs and accessories.
• Windows: Ensure all windows sparkle—clean them inside and out.
• Curb Appeal Boosters: Consider repainting or replacing shutters, light fixtures, and outdoor décor to enhance your home’s charm.

Interior: Create a Clean, Inviting Space

• Declutter Surfaces: Clear bookcases, countertops, and tabletops, leaving only up to three decorative items per surface.
• Under Beds: Avoid hiding items under beds, as they can often be seen in photos.
• Conceal Cords: Tuck away cables and cords as much as possible for a neat appearance.
• Organize Home Offices: Remove papers and clutter to create a clean, functional workspace.
• Personal Items: Remove personal photos, name signs, and other identifiers to help buyers envision themselves in the space.
• Pet-Free Presentation: Hide all pet-related items, including food bowls, crates, and beds. Pets may be kenneled in areas that won’t be photographed.
• Rugs and Mats: Remove bath mats and area rugs, especially in bathrooms. Evaluate other rugs and remove as needed for a more spacious feel.
• Window Treatments: Evenly open all blinds to let in natural light.
• Driveways and Yards: Clear the driveway, yard, and patio of vehicles, trailers, toys, and clutter.

Polish and Perfect

• Lighting: Ensure all light fixtures work and use maximum-wattage bulbs for bright, welcoming spaces. Turn off ceiling fans.
• Towels and Bathrooms: Remove towels unless they’re clean, decorative, and neatly arranged. Close all toilet lids.
• Showers and Tubs: Clear all items from showers and tubs for a fresh, spa-like look.
• Clean Everything: Smudge-free windows, mirrors, and light fixtures make a big difference—wipe them down thoroughly.
• Fridge Surfaces: Remove magnets, photos, and other items from the refrigerator exterior.

Staging Rules of Thumb

1. Less is More: If it isn’t necessary and doesn’t add appeal, it doesn’t belong.
2. It Can’t Be Too Neat: Buyers appreciate tidy spaces that feel clean and move-in ready.

A Collaborative Approach for Success

This list is here to guide you in preparing your home for the quickest, most profitable sale. These are suggestions—not demands—to help us work toward our shared goal of presenting your home in its best light.

Let’s work together to make your home irresistible to buyers!