First impressions matter, especially when it comes to selling your home.

Even if you’re selling off-market on Artis, potential buyers will likely want to see fresh pictures of your abode or do a walk-through, and the way your home is presented can make a significant difference.

Nicely staged homes not only sell faster but often fetch higher prices. If you’re looking to impress buyers and maximise your home’s value, here are some essential home staging tips to help you stage your home like a pro.

The first step in home staging is to declutter and depersonalise your space. Removing unnecessary items helps create a sense of space, making your home feel larger and more inviting. Here’s how to tackle this important task:

• Clear surfaces: Clear off countertops, tables, and other surfaces. Too many items can make spaces look cluttered and small. A few well-chosen decorative pieces are fine but aim for minimalism.
• Organise storage areas: Buyers will likely open closets and cabinets to assess storage space. Organise these areas neatly and remove excess items. Consider storing seasonal clothing elsewhere to make closets appear more spacious.
• Remove personal items: Put away personal items such as family photos, calendars and personal collections. Potential buyers need to envision themselves living in the space, and personal items can be distracting.
• Eliminate kitschy decor: Remove kitschy decor or ornaments that might not appeal to everyone. The goal is to create a clean, neutral environment that allows buyers to imagine their belongings in the home.

Arranging your furniture to optimise flow and functionality is crucial in home staging. Start by removing any unnecessary furniture to create more space. Here are some tips to achieve an inviting layout:

• Create clear pathways: Ensure there are clear pathways in each room. This makes the home feel more accessible and larger. For example, in the living room, arrange furniture to create a comfortable conversation area without blocking walkways.
• Showcase the room’s purpose: Each room should clearly demonstrate its intended purpose. For instance, a spare bedroom should be staged as a bedroom or office, not a storage room.
• Balance furniture placement: Avoid pushing all furniture against the walls. Pulling pieces away from the walls slightly can make spaces feel more intimate and well-planned.
• Consider traffic flow: Think about how people will move through the space. In the dining room, ensure there’s enough space around the table for easy movement. In the bedroom, ensure there’s a clear path around the bed.

Lighting plays a significant role in setting the mood of your home. Here’s how to make sure your home is well-lit and inviting:

• Maximise natural light: Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. Clean windows can also make a big difference in how much light comes through, so make sure to get wiping!
• Use artificial lighting: Supplement natural light with artificial lighting. Use a mix of lamps, downlights, and uplights to create a warm, welcoming ambiance. Floor lamps can brighten dark corners, while table lamps can add a cozy feel to living spaces.
• Choose the right bulbs: Use bulbs that complement your space. Warm bulbs create a cozy atmosphere, ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. Cool bulbs can make kitchens and bathrooms feel fresh and modern. Neutral white bulbs work well in most settings.
• Highlight features: Use lighting to highlight key features of your home. For example, place a spotlight on a beautiful piece of artwork or use under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen to showcase the countertops.

When it comes to decorating, less is more. Over-decorating can make spaces feel cluttered and overwhelming. Instead, consider these tips for a tasteful and appealing decor:

• Neutral colour scheme: Follow a consistent (ideally neutral) colour scheme throughout the house to create a cohesive and harmonious look. Neutral colours appeal to a broader range of buyers and make it easier for them to imagine their own decor in the space.
• Use artwork and mirrors: Add a touch of elegance with a few pieces of artwork. Mirrors can also make spaces feel larger and brighter. Position them to reflect light and open up the room.
• Add soft textiles: Throw pillows, rugs and blankets can add warmth and texture to a room. Choose colours and patterns that complement your neutral palette.
• Incorporate plants: Plants can bring life and freshness into a home. Consider adding a few well-placed plants to brighten up spaces. Just be sure to choose low-maintenance varieties that will stay looking their best throughout the selling process.
• Create focal points: Each room should have a focal point that draws the eye. In the living room, this might be a fireplace or a large piece of art. In the bedroom, the bed should be the star of the show, dressed with clean, inviting linens.

By following these home staging tips, you can create a welcoming and attractive environment that will appeal to potential buyers.

A well-staged home not only looks great in photos but also creates a lasting impression during walk-throughs. Now that you know how to stage your home like a pro, it’s time to get the ball rolling.

List your home for free, get offers from interested buyers and take the first step towards a successful sale by downloading the Artis app today.