Unless you have a minimalist lifestyle, you have likely accumulated many items during your stay in the house. As we aim to create an open and clean space inside your home, it is crucial to remove as many unnecessary items as possible. Furthermore, a decluttered home maximizes your home's space, which can give the impression to the buyer that your home has more square footage than it has in reality. If you have no space for storage, consider renting a short-term storage bin or locker.
A clean house sends a strong message that it has been well cared for without needing a top-to-bottom remodel. Scrub floors, clean baseboards and ceilings, and dust those spots you usually ignore. This could be a step to leave to a professional if you are short on time. Professional cleaning services can be a worthwhile investment.
A few personal things on display are acceptable, but we want to make sure we leave enough room for a prospective buyer to picture themselves living in the home (not you). These items include pictures, awards, personal collections, personal paintings, etc.
Neutral tones, like soft whites and grays, provide a blank canvas that lets those looking at your home visualize their own style in the space. A touch of color can be introduced in small amounts such as a vase, blanket, pillow, tablecloth etc...
Don't forget to trim hedges, weed flower beds, and prune trees regularly as well. Also, keep the lawn free of clutter and add fresh mulch to garden beds.
Remove children's toys and any broken lawn furniture. Keep things simple and clean with lawn ornaments.
Depending on your front porch's size, consider adding outdoor pots with plants as well to finish off a warm look. To freshen up your front door, add a fresh coat of paint.
A fresh coat of paint on the exterior of your home will make your property's curb appeal stand out. This is not really a low-budget job, power washing is another option.
Clear Countertops
Remember to remove all toiletries in the washrooms and all items on kitchen countertops. However, consider leaving a vase of flowers in the bathroom and a luscious bowl with fruit in the kitchen to add touches of color.
Beds
Make beds consider adding a few décor pillows to make a bed look more comfortable and sumptuous.
Closets
If you have regular closets, try to make it look as organized as possible. If you have a walk-in closet, remove as many items as possible to make it look very spacious.
Decor
Keeping decor simple and neutral allows buyers to envision their own style. A great tip that is pleasing to the eyes is pairing items in sets of 1, 3 or 5. Try to avoid over doing themes and color.
Remove/Hide
Trash, recycling, or compost bins in all rooms.
Hide or remove any unnecessary devices (such as video game consoles).
Pet belongings. Tuck away your pet beds, food-water bowls and toys.
An empty room that has no real defining traits can sometimes confuse buyers. Stage rooms to give an idea to buyers on how the space can be used.
Fix that dripping faucet, mend the guttering, fill holes and cracks in walls, repair that door... anything that looks broken or doesn't work can put buyers off. It's important as it gives buyers some peace that the home has been well maintained.
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