When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. Buyers form an opinion within seconds of stepping through the door, and a well-presented home can be the key to securing a quicker sale at a higher price. Home staging is all about showcasing your property’s best features while helping potential buyers imagine themselves living there.
Studies show that staging can not only make your home sell up to three times faster, but it can also add up to 10% to the final sale price. While professional home staging services can be costly, there are plenty of simple and affordable ways to do it yourself.
At Alan Batt Estate Agents, we’ve helped countless homeowners successfully sell their properties, and we know what works. That’s why we’ve put together 16 expert home staging tips to help you make your home as appealing as possible to potential buyers.
1. Tidy Up the Front Garden
Kerb appeal is a major factor when selling your home. It’s all about that first impression when buyers arrive for a viewing. Get rid of weeds, power-clean the paving, sweep the drive, and hide the wheelie bins. Consider painting your front door and adding a smart new house number to make the entrance really memorable.
2. Make Sure Every Room (or Zone) Has a Clear Purpose
We all make rooms multi-task, whether it’s a home office in the spare bedroom or a makeshift laundry space in the conservatory. But home stagers recommend reverting rooms back to their primary purpose. If your home is listed with three bedrooms, make sure buyers see three proper bedrooms at their viewing. If you have an open-plan design, use furniture and décor to clearly define each area’s function.
3. Play to All the Senses
Home staging is often focused on visual appeal, but playing on other senses can make a big difference too. Consider scented candles or diffusers, soft background music, and maintaining a comfortable temperature. A warm and inviting space will leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.
4. Clear Clutter and Personal Items
Buyers want to see a blank canvas where they can picture their own belongings. Decluttering is one of the most important steps in home staging. A good rule of thumb is to remove at least half of the items in each room to create a more spacious, minimalist feel.
5. Use Throws and Cushions to Revive Old Furniture
You don’t need to buy new furniture to refresh your home. A cosy throw or some stylish cushions can give an old sofa or bed a fresh new look, making the space feel more inviting.
6. Add Mirrors to Reflect Light
Mirrors can make rooms feel bigger, lighter, and more open. Place them opposite windows for maximum effect, reflecting natural light and creating a sense of space.
7. Use Fresh Linen in Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Clean, well-coordinated linen can create a stylish and inviting feel. Fresh sheets on the bed and fluffy towels in the bathroom can make a big difference to how buyers perceive your home.
8. Dress the Dining Table
A well-dressed dining table helps buyers imagine entertaining guests in the space. A simple centrepiece, stylish placemats, and polished cutlery can add a touch of elegance.
9. Add Life with Plants and Flowers
Houseplants and fresh flowers bring warmth and vitality to a home. Even artificial plants can create a welcoming atmosphere without requiring maintenance.
10. Hide Electrical Cables and Extension Leads
Visible wires and extension cords can make a space look messy and cluttered. Keep them tucked away to create a clean and organised appearance.
11. Clear Kitchen Worktops
Clutter-free kitchen surfaces make the space feel bigger and more functional. Store away small appliances and personal items to create a sleek, modern look.
12. Clean the Windows
Sparkling windows allow more natural light to flood in and give the impression of a well-maintained home. Clean frames and sills to enhance the effect.
13. Give Tired Walls a Fresh Coat of Paint
A fresh coat of paint can instantly refresh a room. Stick to neutral tones to appeal to the widest range of buyers, while a feature wall can add character.
14. Put Away Extra TVs
While a TV in the living room is expected, removing additional TVs from bedrooms and kitchens can create a more relaxed, distraction-free environment.
15. Give Your Home a Deep Clean
A spotless home is far more attractive to buyers. Deep-clean carpets, skirting boards, and even inside cupboards to ensure every part of your home looks its best.
16. Add Special Finishing Touches
Once you’ve decluttered, cleaned, and refreshed your home, consider adding a few statement pieces to make it stand out. A bold piece of art, stylish coffee table books, or elegant lighting can leave a lasting impression.
How Much Value Can Home Staging Add?
Home staging may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it can be a worthwhile investment. Experts suggest it can add up to 10% to your final sale price, meaning that a home valued at £300,000 could potentially sell for £330,000. Even a modest spend on home staging can yield significant returns.
How Much Does Professional Home Staging Cost in the UK?
Professional home staging services can range from £500 to £5,000+, depending on the size of your home and the extent of the work. However, many homeowners opt for DIY home staging, which can be just as effective with a little effort and creativity.
Do I Need to Buy New Furniture to Stage My Home?
No, you don’t need to invest in brand-new furniture. Simple tricks like decluttering, deep-cleaning, and rearranging existing furniture can have a big impact. If needed, you can hire furniture for short-term use or buy key pieces that you’ll take to your new home.
Ready to Sell Your Home?
If you’re thinking of selling, Alan Batt Estate Agents can help you get the best price for your property. Book a free, no-obligation valuation today and take the first step toward your next move!
Adapted from Zoopla
