Some Staging Tips

Are you trying to sell your home, apartment or condo? Here are some simple ways to stage yourself and hopefully help you sell at the price you are looking for!
1. Remove the Photos:
People can be very photogenic, but many clients are distracted by portraits of the sellers, and miss out on key selling points of the home. Try displaying art without people in it. No matter how nice the display, personal photos are just that: too personal. I was recently in a loft in Denver which was covered in artwork and it was very vibrant artwork. It had been on the market for over a year! Though it might be your taste it might not be the taste of the buyer. Try to tone down your walls.
2. Accentuate the Positive:
Most sellers usually know what they like best about their home. It's usually what they saw that made them want to buy, or it's something that they added to make the home particularly special. Whether it is a staircase, a view or even just a room, do something to make the buyers notice that space as well.
3. Smells Like Home:
Something as simple as a strong sent can turn a buyer away. Things to stay away from are strong scented candles, cigarette scents and stuffy mildew smells. Try baking or setting a fire the night before you are to have an open house. It will make the space feel homey and natural rather than overwhelming.
4. Clean Up:
If you are selling your house, cleaning is a no-brainer. And clutter will kill you. Get a head start on packing, and begin boxing up extras that are taking up space on your mantel, table surfaces, etc. Clutter makes a house look smaller, and if you have a small house, it makes it feel claustrophobic.
5. Painting:
A coat or two of paint is always a good investment. If you decide to make the effort, consider flat paint in areas for resting and relaxing. You can add some colors, but neutral is always best. Satin paint is great for common areas and places where there is a bit more action taking place.
6. Pet-Proof:
If you have pets, especially indoor pets, make sure that during your listing period, you are particularly careful about cleaning up after them. Some buyers may have allergies so you want all pet hair, toys, crates etc. hidden or put in storage.