Get your home ready to make the best first impression!
1. Plan Ahead
Hire Nicole Decor for a walk and talk consultation or an occupied staging/vacant staging service.
2. Clean, Declutter and Depersonalize
Thoroughly clean the entire home.
Scrub tile in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Clean hardwood floors.
Steam clean carpets and drapes. Consider replacing carpet if stains are prominent.
Repair cracks and holes in the walls.
Paint interior walls with neutral colors, like beige, cream, gray or light pastels.
Remove excess and oversized furniture.
Remove all small appliances, toys, magazines and pet items.
Remove family photos, personal collections and medications.
Remove items from the garage and store them off site.
Secure valuable items, including cash and jewelry.
3. Maximize Curb Appeal
Paint the home's exterior, including trim, doors and shutters.
Check front door, doorbell, address number and welcome mat.
Power wash the siding and windows.
Repair cracks in the driveway and sidewalks.
Sweep the entryway and walkways.
Mow, water and fertilize the lawn.
Trim shrubs and trees and rake the leaves.
Plant colorful flowers and shrubs.
Store any toys or equipment lying on the yard.
Clean up pet droppings.
Clean the gutters and downspouts.
4. Pay Attention to Kitchens and Bathrooms
Mop and wax/polish the floors.
Clear the countertops.
Replace outdated hardware.
Clean appliances and fixtures.
Clean and organize the pantry, cabinets and drawers.
Replace old caulking around sinks and bathtubs.
Remove stains from sinks, toilets and bathtubs.
Keep all toilet seat lids closed.
5. Appeal to the Senses
Bake cookies or burn scented candles.
Offer light refreshments.
Install higher wattage incandescent light bulbs to brighten rooms.
Turn on all the lights.
Open windows to let in fresh air.
Open curtains or blinds to let in natural light and show off views.
Turn off TVs.
Relocate pets on the day of the open house.
Refrain from smoking in the home.
6. Show Off Your Home's Best Features
Remove rugs to show off hardwood floors.
Pull back drapes to showcase nice views.
Stage the front porch or deck with furniture and potted plants.
If possible, make sure fireplaces are in working condition.
Clean the backyard and pool area.
