the décor, and rearranging the furniture. You want to send a warm and welcoming vibe, yet a neat, clean, and pristine impression. Basic Rules for Home Staging: Remember, home staging allows prospective buyers to see all the possibilities your home can offer. They need to be able to imagine their own lives playing out in each part of the home. One of the most important pieces of staging your home is removing all distractions that could prevent the buyer from picturing themselves living there. • Deep clean: The type of deep cleaning you need to do to stage your home effectively might require a professional cleaning company. Trust me, if you can do your research and find an experienced and recommended service, it will be well worth the investment! • Deal with old/broken items: Whether you repair or replace them, the different parts of your home should be clean, functional, appealing, and up-to-date. For example, a cracked tile or leaky faucet will give the impression that your home has been neglected. • Declutter: Clear that clutter! Aim to remove at least 50% of it. Yes, your “stuff” reflects hobbies, memories, and values. This is especially true for homeowners who are downsizing because they’ve lived in their homes for much longer. But clutter makes a home seem disorganized and smaller. Cluttered homes don’t sell — at least not well. • Depersonalize: Remove items that reflect your personal values; anything religious or political, for instance, can turn off buyers. Even family photos can detract from a buyer’s experience, so store them away — for now. • Downplay color: If repainting interior walls, think universal, neutral colors. Avoid anything too loud or bizarre. Buyers want to imagine themselves in the home. 76
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