Not all of today’s buyers are looking for in-ground pools and dramatic room conversions. They are looking for a house that instantly makes them feel like they are home. Using some of these staging tips and tricks below can help sell your home faster than you thought was possible.
1. Chalkboard on the Porch – A small chalkboard that welcomes them will set the tone of the inviting feel inside the home. A planter of colorful flowers next to it is a nice touch.
2. Casual Outdoor Space – A hammock under that big shade tree or a porch swing will have them planning their first lazy Saturday afternoon after the big move.
3. Showcase the Season – In the summer, a pitcher of freshly squeezed lemonade or sweet tea will do the trick. If it is fall have hot apple cider for them to enjoy.
4. Highlight the Potential – Buyers may not realize there is a perfect space for a desk or craft area under the stairs unless you draw their attention to it. A colorful painting or vase of flowers will work. This goes for all the small features they may overlook.
5. Clear Out Some Furniture – Move any furniture you don’t need to a friend’s house or a storage unit. Too much furniture dwarfs a space. This applies to décor and clothes in your closet, too.
6. Gift Bag – When they open their gift bag later, they will appreciate the list you wrote of all the reasons to love the house and the surrounding area. Also, use a picture of the house to make magnets to keychains to include. If you know the buyer has pets, include a gourmet treat for them. No one can resist someone who caters to their pet.
7. Take Advantage of Social Media – Facebook and Twitter can be helpful, especially if others are sharing your post or retweeting your tweets.
8. Sweeten the Deal – Throw in something they will really appreciate or let them choose between a few things at closing, such as an installed security system, gas card, or a cruise.
9. Light it Up – Make sure all the lights are on, so every room is cheerful and bright.
10. Speak to Their Stomach – Make a judgement call: are you going to go with freshly baked cookies or healthy homemade granola bars?
11. Kids’ Zone – If you live in a neighborhood sure to attract families then section off an area in the living room where you can leave toys, coloring books, and cartoons playing on a TV.
12. Price Low – Pricing high so you have room to negotiate is not always the best answer. Pricing low could invite a bidding war and get you significantly more than what you ask for.
13. Have the Neighbors Help – If the family coming to look at the home has a toddler then your neighbor playing outside with their toddler at the perfect time will at least get their child excited about having a new friend.
14. Gender-Neutral master Bedroom – The bedroom holds more weight than you might think you want it to speak to every buyer, regardless of gender.
Appearances do matter, but this does not mean the home with the most expensive or modern upgrades are going to win. Sometimes, appearance is more about how a home makes a buyer feel. Use these tricks to make them feel like they are home and help sell your home fast.