st uff , this might be the most diffi cult rule of all. Our st uff re fl ects our hobbies, memories, and values. Unfortunately, clutter doesn’t sell a home; in fact, it hinders the sale. Clutter also makes a home seem disorganized and smaller. No hobby or enthusiast evidence. One prospective buyer I represented opened the garage to a house she was considering making her own home to fin d a partially dismembered deer in process of the homeowner’s hunting and taxidermy hobby. She moved on — quickly. She didn’t consider the home any further, although it was equal in most ways to others she liked and had an attractive price. She just couldn’t get past that dead deer in “her” garage. Use neutral colors. It’s well established that using neutral colors sells. While you might have enjoyed a unique paint scheme, buyers won’t be engaged enough to envision their own lifestyle in that hue. Painting your home with odd or “loud” colors can turn buyers o ff . Th ey might not be able to imagine living in your home with those colors if they don’t suit their personal tastes and style. Depersonalize. Get rid of objects that re fl ect your own life. For instance, religious and political items may turn o ff groups of potential buyers, especially if they have diff erent religious and political backgrounds. You want potential buyers to see themselves as the owners. Focus on Furniture — Less Is More! Staging is the art of creating a visibly inviting space. Like any homeowner, you’ll take your furniture with you when you move out of your home. Until then, your personal taste and style will be showcased while your home is on the market. Create space by keeping furniture to a minimum. Buyers are attracted to homes fl ooded with light and roominess. At the same time, they are repelled by homes fi lled with cramped and un- 72
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