As an ole’ house buying pro, I can walk into any wreck and visualize it’s potential. Not everyone looking to buy a home has such foresight. In fact, some people are completely imagination impaired. If the home is a bit dirty or has the wrong color paint, they may just walk out. Staging is important if you want to get your price!

First, clear away the clutter! Remove family photos, dusty tschotskes, piles of laundry and anything that doesn’t belong.

Clean! No dirty dishes, smelly cat litter or unmade beds. Wipe down dirty walls, switch plates and cabinets. Paint, if necessary.

Curb Appeal. Make sure the house looks good from the front. Tidy garbage, sweep, mow or weed.

Light Makes Right! Open window shades. Turn on lights for showings. Change burnt out bulbs. Clean windows. Nobody likes a dark house unless they have photophobia.

Delight All Senses. You’ve made it visually stimulating, but how does it smell? Fresh flowers or natural scents are always more pleasing than artificial deodorizers. When showing, turn on calming background music. Classical is always suitable. Make sure the room temperature is at a comfortable level. Offer some refreshments to buyers schlepping around all day.

These are the no cost basics. You’ll probably want to take it up a notch if it’s a high priced property. Other items to consider: whole house paint job, take up carpeting, finish wood floors, rent proper furniture.

NY Staging
Home Staging Quiz
Archive: NY Times article