5 Biggest Home Staging Mistakes That Cost You the Sale

Are you putting your house on the market? As I'm sure you're aware, first impressions are vitally important to prospective buyers.

From the moment people walk in, they start making a decision about your home and what it would look like if they lived there.

So how can you make your home an inviting space that buyers love? The answer is home staging.

There is a big difference between a staged home and one that is on the market that hasn't been staged.

Here are some of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make when trying to sell a home without the benefits of staging.

Cluttered Space

Clutter gives the buyer a feeling that there is not enough storage space in the home. So it's really important to put away unneeded items while you are showing your home.

Everything from countertops and tables to bedrooms and even the garage needs to be cleared away of clutter and unused items.

Dirt and Grime

No one wants to move into a dirty, poorly maintained home. Taking the time to make every surface sparkle is critical. Bathrooms should be spotless, free of mold, mildew and stains.

Give some extra attention to the kitchen too by paying close attention to the appliances, especially the fridge, garbage area and cupboards.

Unpleasant Odors

One whiff of a foul smell can make a buyer turn their nose up on a home. Sometimes we are so used to the way our home smells that we don't recognize odors. Sometimes sellers try so hard to make their home smell nice that strong candles or air fresheners can offend buyers too.

Making a home have a neutral, clean scent is the best way to go. Worst offenders are pet smells, musty/stale air, and cigarette smoke. Other offenders can include mildew or even strong food smells such as fish. If in doubt, have a friend walk through your home and give it the sniff test.

Too Hot or Cold

Buyers want to know that the home will be comfortable. This includes knowing that it's warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Be sensitive to this and set the temperature accordingly when you are showing your home. Fans can help keep air flowing through the home.

If windows are drafty, make sure to seal them with caulk or replace them if budget allows. If it's summer, keep it pleasantly cool but don't blast the AC and freeze your buyers out. You want buyers to linger and feel at home in the space.

Keeping it Too Dark in the House

A dark and dreary home doesn't show your property off in its best light. Take time to walk through your home and see ways you can add more light. Keep the lights on in the house and consider adding extra spotlights or lamps. Make sure the windows are clean so the sunshine comes through them.

Avoid these pitfalls when selling your home by hiring a home staging professional that can take care of all the details so you don't have to frantically try to remember everything during this stressful time.

Having a staged home sells fast with offers that are sure to make you smile.