Ideally you should have a week or two available prior to listing your property in order to stage your home and make it look its best for buyers. But, what if you need to list quickly? You will need to get your home ready for photographs to be taken and for buyers to walk through.
In that scenario, you need to do some quick "staging" to get your home ready. Let's assume your property is already clean and tidy. Here are some other things you can do.
Open the curtains, even at night. This will make each room seem brighter, more appealing and more spacious.
Pull out some boxes or storage bins. Put away personal knick-knacks (like that bowling trophy) and other personal items to reduce clutter on shelves and countertops.
Clear countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms. Put most or all small appliances out of sight.
Make sure lighting throughout the house is bright and comfortable. In darker areas, plug in a lamp.
Clear away as much as you can in the foyer. Make that space look open, uncluttered and welcoming.
Move cars out of the driveway.
Make the beds. Fluff pillows on sofas.
Clear away as many items as possible from the closet floors (such as shoes).
Open a window and air out the kitchen, especially if you just finished cooking.
Make sure your pet is in a crate or, if possible, out for a walk. Not everyone loves pets.
These staging tips take only a few minutes each, but can make a big difference in the impression your home makes on a buyer.
Want more advice on how to prepare your home for the market? Get in touch for a consultation and free home evaluation.