Last time, we talked about the value of having good artwork to help sell a home. I promised that this time we'd talk about what that good artwork is. In thinking through this topic, though, I felt it was important to first insert a discussion about what that good artwork is not. (Sometimes that can matter more! Anyone know what I mean?)

First of all, let me say upfront that sometimes "rules" (or what are "guidelines", really ;-)), are meant to be broken. For every instance in which the removal of "bad" artwork was successful, there will be someone out there telling us they made it work. Hey . . . I'm all for being creative, when creativity is needed. This is just one more tool in your staging bag, and often we get away with not having to use every single tool, every single time. (And thank goodness for that, too!)

Here's what you want to get rid of . . . or a-hem. . . "edit" out of a home:

Family Photos

Need we say? Too personal--and reminds people they are invading someone else's space. Not what you want to do when your goal is to have them think of it as their new space.

Personal/Religious Art

Here's where things might get touchy. This is not to encroach on anyone's belief system. It's just that you are not . . . trust me . . . you are not going to convert anyone by display objects of faith. Like family photos, religious (and other philosophical type "memberships") are more apt to make someone feel uncomfortable . . . and suddenly weird . . . when it differs greatly from their own belief system. Homes are personal. And a seller needs to leave it open to become personal to the buyer.

Grandma's Roses

Okay . . . so what I'm lacking in a great heading, hopefully I'm making up for in good imagery! Whatever comes to mind (including all types of petit point), probably has to go. 

Edgy 

While we're going for "contemporary", we're not heading down the road to ultra-modern. Admittedly, urban condos can go more down this road. But in the 'burbs, "transitional" works better. Also included is nudity, violence, and other themes that may stray from mainstream comfort levels. Stick to a PG rating! Remember, we're not talking about your home anymore (or your client's home). We're talking about a product you want to sell!

For the sake of keeping this short, that's where I'll end it. Next time we'll for sure cover some great ideas for making those walls sing!

In the meantime, let me know what your favorite "art removals" have been!