I thought some of you may land here because you are looking for DIY staging tips. So, that’s what I’ll focus on today. These basic concepts and staging tips will apply to marketing most homes. I’ll focus on the kitchen today
Staging is basically merchandising for a really big & expensive product. One definition of merchandising is to promote the sale of goods, especially by their presentation. Our house actually has several ‘goods’ within it that we can merchandise. The front exterior, the entry space, main living rooms, the kitchen, the dining areas, the primary bedroom, the backyard, etc.
So, for example, if we were in the business of selling kitchens, we would want to market our ‘product’ to appeal to the cook of the family by showing that there is ample counter space, plenty of storage, good lighting and a pleasing atmosphere in the space. Just like the marketing geniuses for popular products, we can create an emotional connection with the buyer and help them envision themselves enjoying this kitchen.
In order to achieve the results we want (lots of MLS views, showings and offers) we can take a few important steps to create the greatest appeal.
Eliminate visual clutter - this is SO important for photos and showings
All products go in cabinets. No food, produce, dish soap, paper towels, etc. on counters.
If it isn’t decorative, put it away. At least for photo day. Coffee makers and toasters are NOT decorative. No sponges or cleaning supplies please!
Toss out old products in your cupboards so they aren’t full when buyers open them. Prepack items like holiday dishes or bread makers that you won’t need this season.
If you have a pantry, pretend you are selling that pantry for a million bucks! Organize it and straighten everything and clear the floor.
Clean clean clean everywhere, like Martha Stewart is coming to visit! Houses that feel “Ready to move into” will sell faster and for more! After you dust above the cabinets, DO NOT put your decorations back up there, that is an outdated trend.
I know it’s hard, but remove all signs of your family. No calendars, photos, appointment cards, children’s art, etc. The house should not feel like 'yours' anymore if you really want to sell it. It's time to make it feel like “The buyer’s next home”. And that’s how you create an emotional connection for the buyers; when they can imagine themselves living there.
Now that your counters are bare, find a few nice things to decorate with. A vignette of three items of various sizes every 2-3 feet is a good rule of thumb. For example, a pepper grinder, mortar and pestle, and a nice canister with new wooden spoons set up together near the stove would be perfect. Near the sink you could have a new decorative soap bottle, clean towel and a small plant. Other ideas are a tray with a french press, a couple matching mugs, and a napkin. Or a tray with a bottle of wine and two glasses and a napkin.
On photo day, pick up your throw rugs and mats. Look for any signs of YOU and put them away. If it looks like a nice Airbnb kitchen, then it’s Ready Set Show time!
Realtors, by offering a Complimentary Staging Consultation to all your signed sellers, your listings will sell quicker and you will stand out from the competition. A great way for the cream to rise to the top!
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