General
- Clean, clean, clean* - a house can never be too clean for showing to prospective buyers.
- Open drapes and shades and turn on all lights.
- Pets should be invisible.
- Artwork should not be hanging too high and should be grouped (this can be tricky - ask your stager)
- Furniture should be re-arranged to maximize the room’s best features, improve flow and minimize problem areas
- Counter should be cleared and cleaned except acceptable decor- no small appliances visible (there are a few exceptions)
- Sink needs to be scoured and polished - no sponges, etc.
- Remove all magnets, artwork and notepads from refrigerator - sorry, cute kids' art needs to go:(
- Hang fresh new towels (preferably white)
- Personal items should be put away (most of them - your stager can help with this)
- Bathrooms should be made to appear as large as possible (limit bath rugs)
- Beds should be neatly made and inviting with clean linens and lots of pillows!
- Closets should not be stuffed; tidy, box up and remove clutter.
- Dressers and desk areas need to be cleared and clean - decorate in three's!
- Furniture should be re-arranged to maximize the room’s best features and minimize problem areas
Cleaning and decluttering are critical but equally important is creating a warm, neutral, inviting space. Creating this environment is the art of staging. It takes a talented decorating professional to transform a space quickly and cost effectively.