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STAGED TO SELL - First Impressions Count

By
Home Stager with DIVA DECOR DESIGN

When you are first introduced to someone at a party, what’s the first thing that you do? You spend the first 30 seconds having a good look and making a lot of judgments. If that person has, say spinach on their teeth, you will remember THAT long after you forgot what they were saying. 

First impressions count and make a big impression on your potential buyer. It can make or break the sale during viewing.Today’s buyer is very different. They have higher expectations. Today’s buyer is also very design savvy, thanks in part to TV makeover shows. In short, you have to do more in preparation to sell your home than you were ever expected to do in the past. Buyers today, quickly sift through properties and will disregard those that don’t interest them. 

Home stage before the real estate agent comes around.The Agent knows that a property that is well presented and in good order and is welcoming, is going to be easier to sell. You are relying on them to value it and then sell it. If they think that they are going to have a hard time selling it, then they will price it lower to attract people. And that’s not what you want. Real estate agents would like an easy sell. Make sure you help them help you.  

Curb appeal is what gets those buyers interested in your property. Will yours stand out for the right reasons?

  • Is your front hedge neat and tidy?
  • Are the flowerbeds bare or flourishing?
  • Is there an obstacle course? Recycle boxes, kids’ toys?
  • What about the gutters? Have they been cleaned of all debris?
  • How does the front of the house look? The windowsills? The front door? Could they use some new paint?

As they stand on the doorstep, are they thinking “I wonder if it’s just as nice inside?” or “I wish I wasn’t wasting my time here. How quickly can I turn around and leave?” 

Your Entrance Hallway Although this is one of many rooms that your potential buyer will see, this is the first impression of the interior of the house. This is your first chance to impress them with your décor.

  • Is it welcoming? Do the lights work?
  • Is there space to step inside or is it a dumping ground?
  • What about the décor? Are there fresh flowers, a mirror, or an attractive coat stand? Or are there smelly shoes, umbrellas and a stroller?

First impressions are really important. Make them count.