Another day, another viewing.
Granted, it’s debatable whether now is a good time to sell, but it can get a little nerve wracking when your property isn’t shifting despite countless viewings.
So, where is it all going wrong?
According to the HomeOwners Alliance, it could be one of five reasons.
But, let’s focus on one thing at a time…
First impressions are important. In this case, they’re particularly crucial. So ask yourself this…have you spruced up your place enough to make people want it?
As in, really want it. Before anyone else gets their hands on it.
Enter home staging.
In a nutshell, home staging is the process of organising and styling your home to get it off the market (for the best price) as quickly as possible.
We’re not talking massive costly renovations here. A few simple changes to the presentation and ‘vibe’ could be all it takes. And an effective combo of decluttering and decorating won’t just get your home sold quicker, effective home staging can sometimes even boost value a little.
Professional home stagers are a thing, but their services can be pricey. DIY staging is the way forward if you’re on a budget.
Here are the 5 essential DIY home staging tips you need to get this sale going:
1. Repair and refresh
Start the staging process by getting any repairs done. Yes, even those you’ve been putting of for ages. Sure, buyers will expect your home to look lived in, but nothing should look too worn or tired.
The better shape your home is in, the less staging will be required. Get DIY help if you need to, but get that window frame fixed and that peeling wall repainted.
2. Depersonalise and declutter
As tough as it is it to hear, buyers don’t necessarily want to be faced with multiple photos of your cousin’s wedding or your nephew’s scribbles plastered up on your fridge. They want to envision themselves living there, and lots of personal stuff can cloud their visions. Which you definitely don’t want.
‘De-personalise’ the place by packing up as many personal items as possible.
Clutter is a big no-no when you’re trying to sell your home. It can make your place look smaller, and potential buyers may worry about a lack of storage space.
Put it away, you’ll have to clear it all up for the packing process anyway.
3. Open up the space
Source: Pinterest – nordichouse.co.uk
The ‘feeling’ of space is a huge selling point. And let’s face it, we don’t get much of it in London flats.
Other than decluttering, there are a couple of tricks to make your rooms look and feel as spacious as possible.
For instance, painting walls white can brighten up a room as white reflects all colours. And then there’s mirrors. Probably the most surefire way of opening up even the most cramped of rooms. They’re cheap too. You can pick up framed mirrors of different sizes from your local charity shop.
4. It’s all about the little touches
Source: Pinterest – sofaworkshop.com
Although you want your home to look like a blank-ish canvas so potential buyers can envision themselves there, you definitely don’t want it to look devoid of life. Liven up the place with some indoor plants and flowers.
Even a bowl of fresh fruit in the kitchen adds a homely vibe and a splash of colour and texture. Opt for long lasting fruits, such as green apples or oranges. It’s inexpensive, and hey, maybe you’ll start meeting your 5-a-day.
Finally, appeal to the sense of smell by making sure your home is smelling fresh and hotel-like. (The flowers will help.)
5. Improve your curb appeal
Although home staging usually refers to the interior of your home, don’t forget to give the exterior some TLC pre-viewings too.
Let’s start with the obvious. Clean up the outside spaces of any leaves, clutter, or rubbish. Make sure your windows are sparkling clean. Yep, buyers can be put off by simple stuff like this.
Give your front door a fresh lick of paint and make sure any greenery is in good shape. Box plants are great for evergreen and neat looking option.
Oh and finally, work on that virtual appeal. The first time many potential buyers are likely to see your home is through photos on an online listing. Find a professional property photographer skilled at making homes look Pinterest-worthy.
