Visual merchandising is a marketing technique retailers have been using since the advent of the big box store. Basically, it means presenting a piece of merchandise in a way that best highlights its strongest features.
For retailers, this usually entails not only arranging the goods themselves, but surrounding them with other complementing items. If the presentation is well executed, customers will see the display and be enticed to purchase, even if they had no intention of buying that particular item when they entered the store.
No matter what the outlook of the current real estate market, home sellers should take a lesson from visual merchandisers. This practice of making the appearance of the home more appealing to prospective buyers is known as “home staging.” For related guidance on buying and insurance considerations, see Home Buying Considerations and Insurance.
Staging the interior
Below are some ideas that any prospective home seller can use to stage their home, beginning with the inside:
- Remove unnecessary items throughout the house.
- Clear kitchen countertops, and remove pictures and messages from refrigerator doors.
- Eliminate clutter on bathroom countertops, tubs, and shower stalls. Limit the number of colors displayed on towel racks to one or two.
- Rearrange furniture, or remove it, if necessary. The goal is to make each room appear larger.
- Make sure there are only a limited number of pictures or objects on walls. If you remove pictures, and holes are left behind, patch walls and apply fresh paint.
- Make your windows sparkle, and steam clean carpets and drapes.
- Store extra possessions in the garage or rent a storage unit.
- Turn on all overhead lighting and lamps when you are showing the home.
- Have “easy listening” music on during viewings, and make sure your home smells fresh, as well!
When preparing windows and glass fixtures, you may also find it helpful to review resources on related coverage like Glass Sales Insurance.
Staging the exterior
Don’t forget that prospective buyers look at the outside of a home with as much scrutiny as the inside, so you will need to:
- Move all garbage cans into the garage.
- Inspect gutters for roof moss and dry rot. Make sure they are swept and cleaned.
- Prune trees and bushes, and don’t allow plants to block windows.
- Remove dead plants and shrubs, keep the lawn neatly mowed, and consider planting a few brightly colored flowers.
- Clear patios or decks of items such as unused planters, charcoal, barbecues, and toys.
- Check the condition of the outside paint, especially the front door and trim. Repaint if necessary.
A few small visual changes can make a large difference in the saleability of your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is home staging?
Home staging is the practice of arranging and presenting a home so it appeals to the widest range of potential buyers, highlighting its best features.
Do I need to hire a professional stager?
Not always; many improvements are inexpensive and can be done by the seller, though a professional can help when rooms need major reworking or neutralizing.
How long should I prepare my home before showings?
Allow enough time to declutter, clean, and make small repairs; many sellers spend a few days to a couple of weeks preparing the home for listing and showings.