This time of year, I am always decluttering and organizing. It starts when I am putting the holiday decor away. And then I start to think of how my home is staged, for everyday life and for the future. In today's real estate market, the way you present your home may be the difference between a quick sale and a lengthy listing with price reductions. Potential buyers are imagining their life in your house.
Let's dive into five proven strategies, starting with a little decluttering, that will help your property stand out - even during the winter months.
🥇 Master the Art of Decluttering
A clutter-free home appears more spacious and allows buyers to envision their own belongings in the space:
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- Clear kitchen counters, leaving only essential, attractive appliances
- Remove excess furniture to create better flow in each room
- Pack away seasonal items, especially holiday decorations - no more need for elves or stockings
- Leave some empty space on your bookshelves
💐 Enhance your Home’s Ambiance
First impressions matter, and the atmosphere of your home sets the tone for potential buyers.
- Place fresh flowers strategically - think white orchids in the master bathroom, seasonal blooms in the dining room, and hardy plants in the living area
- Address maintenance issues like squeaky hinges, sticky locks, and creaky floorboards
- Maximize natural light by cleaning windows, removing heavy drapes, and using mirrors to reflect light
🗑️ Showcase Storage Potential
Storage space often ranks high on buyers' wishlists. Make yours shine:
- Install closet organizers to demonstrate storage efficiency
- Reduce closet contents by 50% to showcase space
- Organize garage storage with labeled bins and wall-mounted systems
📋 Create a Neutral Canvas
Depersonalization allows buyers to imagine themselves living in the space:
- Replace family photos with neutral artwork or landscapes
- Remove personal collections, religious items, and political memorabilia
- Store away children's artwork and refrigerator magnets
- Pack up personal care items from bathroom counters
✨ Make it Sparkle
A clean home suggests well-maintained systems and careful ownership:
- Clean carpets and hardwood floors
- Clean bathrooms and kitchen
- Remove any pet odors with professional cleaning
Does this list seem overwhelming?
THEY DON’T HAVE TO! Not all of these tasks may be necessary or complex. Message me and we can meet to create a priority list of tasks to make the most impact in the marketability of your home.