Getting your home prepared for the real estate market is more important now than ever, given the housing market. With so many of the same models with similar upgrades for sale at the same time, you need an edge over your competition. Think turn-key condition.
Remove Clutter Anything that is sitting out on occasional tables, such as too many figurines, picture frames or candles, can distract a potential buyer. You want your surfaces to be as clear as possible. Get rid of table cloths, doilies, and anything that might take attention away from important things such as flooring upgrades.
The Right Angle I’ve made many a “man enemy” by relocating the recliner that was positioned square in front of the TV. It needs to be integrated with the rest of the family room furniture, creating a conversation area. Try to keep furniture arrangement simple, using right angles, (no funky diagonals) and keep it sparse. You want your home to look spacious, and getting rid of small extraneous pieces, such as CD holders and curio cabinets, helps.
Don’t Be Bold Most people can’t see past a bold color and imagine it painted to suit them. Make sure the home is as neutral and inviting as possible. This doesn’t mean boring and white. Choose soft colors that work well with your flooring. Think light versions of tans, gold’s, or putties. Keep accent colors limited to niches and the headboard wall in a bedroom.
Clean Sells This includes, but is not limited to, carpets, ceiling fans, window blinds, shutters and air vents. To combat pet odors, add vanilla-scented plug-in air fresheners.
Welcome Them Home Don’t forget the outside. Make sure your paint is fresh, landscape is manicured, and add some colorful potted plants. Don’t be afraid to mix pot sizes and plant types. Natural looking wreath and swags made from curly willow, berries and subtly colored dried flowers are a “welcome” touch on your freshly washed front door. io
Michelle Samar is owner of Non-Essentials, an interior design firm, and has been working in the home interior industry for 16 years. Contact the writer at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it