Stage Your House for Under $100
Thanks to shows– like those on HGTV– people are interested in the ins-and-outs of the real estate business. Shows that feature house flipping, extreme renovating, and house-hunting are fun to watch, but can also make the basics of realty seem unattainable for people outside of the profession. While it’s true that professionals can make amazing things happen, there is a lot you can do on your own and within a budget to stage your home and get it ready to be sold.
Clean Up
Cost: $0-$20
Give your house thorough spring cleaning (even if you’re selling in November). The last thing visitors want to see is the scum on your beautiful shower, the fingerprint stains on the wall in the kids’ bedroom, or the pet hair on the couch. You could hire professionals if you don’t have time, but those costs can be more than $100 per room. Instead, do it yourself and save a lot of cash. Just be careful to be fastidious and take your time– the house needs to be sparkling.
Clean Out
Cost: $0
Throw out, store, or sell your extra stuff that’s cluttering the house. Make sure the surfaces of your house are clean and orderly so that your prospective buyers can see the house, not your junk. This goes for furniture too– if your house feels full, move some pieces into the garage or attic and make some space.
Depersonalize
Cost: $0
While you’re getting rid of your clutter, make sure that you also do a sweep for personal items. Prospective buyers will be able to see themselves in your home much easier without vacation photos on the mantle, postcards and calendars on the fridge, and your children’s toys in the living room.
Deodorize
Cost: $5-10
Make sure that your house smells homey and comfortable when you have visitors. First, get rid of the smelly stuff– diaper pails, Rover’s favorite pillow, litter boxes, and the garbage. Spray a deodorizing agent like Febreeze in trouble spots. If you have scented candles or a diffuser, try a welcoming scent like vanilla. In the winter, boil cinnamon sticks with oranges and cranberries for a festive tone. Appeal to your prospective clients’ senses by baking cookies or bread while they visit.
Highlight
Cost: $20-30
Highlight the true beauty of your abode– make a great first impression with the outward appearance of the house. Cut the grass and edge along sidewalks and flower beds. If it’s in the summer, plant flowers; if it’s the fall, rake the leaves. Always sweep the steps, sidewalk, and porch. Any patio furniture in view must be tasteful and clean. Add a wreath to the door and a welcome mat.
Be Creative
Cost: $0
You don’t have to buy new stuff to make your house look fresh and stylish. Look around your home and unleash your creative vision. Sure, those bookends have sat on the shelf in the office forever, but they also would look fresh on the mantle. Don’t forget the rule of threes as you’re rearranging your display– visually, it is pleasing to see similar items in groups of three.
You have a wide range of possibilities for staging in your house already! All you need to do is spend the time, energy, and creativity needed to get it done. But you can do that! Your hard work will pay off and you’ll be handing over your keys in no time.
Have you staged or sold a home before? What advice would you pass on to first-time sellers?
