Boston Home Staging, Brighton Home staging, Watertown home staging. Brookline home staging Services

Seeing Your House Through Buyer's Eyes

What are your first impressions?

As you drive up to your house…
                                                                   
As you walk to the front door…

Of the entryway…

Of the Bathroom….

Of the closet space…

Go to open houses and see what people are saying about the property. Take note of the condition of the house, how does it make you feel.

Remember that Buyers are drawn to the negative first. What do you see?  Is there trash in the yard, dead plants, a lot of clutter in the house, dusty dried flower arrangements, closets that are too full, or wall sockets that have no covers? This will give the impression that the house is small and not well maintained.

Think about how small changes will give the right first impression!!!

Stage to Sell

Your realtor will bring buyers to your home. Even at your open house, think of all visitors as good prospects. Even if they are not in the market for a home right now, they may know someone that is. If they are coming to see your house it must fit their criteria, so make the most of their visit.

Each room provides the perfect opportunity for first impressions.

You want them to experience the feeling of home in your house.

The goal is to get the buyer to imagine themselves in your house surrounded by their things and not distracted by yours. This is called positioning.

Position to make the Buyer remember your house:

There are four critical first impression areas:

1. Curb appeal:

What does the outside of the house look like?

2. The Entryway:

Is it free and clear of all clutter?

3. The Kitchen:
        
Is it clean and are the countertops clear?

4. Bathroom:

Is it clean and free from mold and mildew? Are the counters clear?


How Much Will It Cost To Stage My House?

What you spend on Staging is entirely up to you. To minimize costs, borrow props whenever possible. If you end up purchasing, “show” items such as colorful dish towels. Lush comforters, flowering houseplants, and more, keep in mind that these items will go with you to your new home. Items that won’t travel, or that you can’t borrow and don’t have the money or desire to purchase, can be rented at a fraction of their purchase price.

In general, though, do not be afraid to invest in this step; it pays for itself many times over.

Sample Fine Tuning Costs

New entry rug                                             $35.00
Roses for Open House                                $25.00
Guest-room comforter, pillows                      $100.00
Recreation room accessories                       $25.00
Back-hall table (borrowed)                            $ 0.00
Artwork for bare walls (borrowed)                   $ 0.00
Miniblinds                                                  $50.00
Track lighting to replace dated fixture in entryway   $45.00
Fresh mulch for flower beds                          $25.00
Flowers, plants                                            $50.00
Window box plantings                                   $50.00
New towels, master and upstairs baths          $40.00
Flowering plant                                             $15.00
Silk plant                                                     $25.00
Place mats, napkins rings                             $35.00
Dish towels                                                  $25.00
Total Fine Tuning Costs                                $545.00

Or rent them from your Stager for much less



Staying Ready Checklist

Weekly or biweekly

•        Dust and vacuum at least once a week.
•Clean fingerprints from walls, woodwork, and glass.
•Scrub bathrooms to a shine.
•Avoid an accumulation of dirty laundry.
•Keep the lawn neatly mowed. Trim shrubs and flowers.
•If you live in snow country, keep walkways well shoveled.
•Wipe down lawn furniture to look fresh and clean.
•Maintain pool or hot tub.
•Replenish interior flowers and plants for a fresh feel.

Daily

•Make all beds before leaving the house. Set out bedroom staging items.
•Wipe down the shower or tub each morning. Put away all personal-care                    items. Wipe out sink.
•Make sure anything that was used is put back in its place: toys, games,   
        sports equipment, newspapers, or magazines.

•Clean up immediately after meals and stow all cooking utensils. Keep meals           simple.
•Walk through and neaten the entire house before you depart.
•Survey the lawn and make sure all toys and equipment are carefully put away          before leaving.


Showtime Checklist

Exterior

•Pick up lawn tools and toys.
•Pick up after pets.
•Remove obstructions from curb view.
•Clear driveways and walk areas.
•Use a leaf blower or hose down walk areas for a neat and tidy look.
•Clear away debris from pool or hot tub.

Interior

•Empty wastebaskets.
•Pick up dirty clothes.
•Clear papers and notes from desks, counters, and tables.
•Check for hazards—extension cords, throw rugs, etc.
•Put away personal-care items in bathrooms.
•Straighten and stage children’s play areas.
•Do a once-over cleaning: vacuum, sweep, and dust.
•Wipe down counters, sinks, and bathtubs. Finish with glass cleaner.
•Deodorize pet areas
•Arrange fresh flowers throughout.
•Make sure rugs are straight and clean.
•Open shades and drapes. Open windows to freshen rooms.
•Turn on lights.

Last-minute Fine Tuning

•Arrange tables with flowers and linens.
•Set out a game, book, hobby project.
•Arrange “show” towels in bathrooms and kitchens.
•Play soft music and turn off television.
•Set a comfortable temperature.
•Final check every room.
•Leave, and take your pet with you, or to the kennel.
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Sraging doesn't cost. It Pays
Contact Information:
Brighton, MA 
Phone: 617 407-3961
E-Mail Mary@stagetosell.org
www.Stagetosell.org
Stage To Sell By Mary