HOME STAGING: PRESENTING YOUR HOME AT ITS BEST

Home staging is the art of preparing your home to showcase it in the best possible light. Whether for online photographs, videos, property practitioners conducting valuations, or prospective buyers visiting in person, the goal is to highlight your home's strengths and make it as appealing as possible.

When you've lived in a home for years, it can be challenging to see it objectively. However, when selling, objectivity is crucial. It might be beneficial to seek feedback from a friend, family member, or your property practitioner about what works and what doesn't in your home. For example, while you may cherish a collection of family memorabilia, a buyer might see clutter. What you see as your beloved dog's basket, a buyer could view as something unhygienic in the kitchen.

When your home is on the market, it's essential to view it from the buyer's perspective. Aligning with your property practitioner to present the property at its absolute best can significantly increase the chances of a quicker sale at a higher price.

The Importance of Listening to Your Property Practitioner

Your property practitioner is your guide through the selling process. Their comments and suggestions may not always be easy to hear, but they are based on experience and knowledge of what buyers are looking for. They understand what makes a home stand out in photographs or videos and what drives buyer interest. Trusting their advice can make all the difference in how your home is perceived by potential buyers.

The Modern Buying Process

Today, most buyers begin their search online, examining photographs and videos before deciding whether to visit a property. This means that your home's online presence is critical. High-quality images that showcase a well-staged home can lead to more viewings and, ultimately, a faster sale at a better price.

General Overview: Preparing Your Home

• Cleanliness: A spotless home is non-negotiable. Ensure that all areas, both inside and out, are clean and well-maintained. Touch up paint where needed, clean gutters, mow the lawn, tidy flower beds, and spruce up the entrance. Familiarity can make it easy to overlook things like a mop leaning against the courtyard wall, but buyers will notice everything.
• Clutter: Clutter detracts from your home's appeal and makes rooms feel smaller. Clear out unnecessary items, whether by boxing them up, donating, or discarding them. Keep surfaces in kitchens and other rooms tidy, with only necessary and attractive items on display. In children's rooms, organize toys and sports equipment to create a sense of order.
• Lighting: In South Africa, natural light is highly valued. Open windows and doors, raise blinds, and pull back curtains to let in as much light as possible. In rooms with little natural light, consider using additional lighting or candles.
• Lifestyle: Highlight the lifestyle your home offers. If your lounge opens onto a patio, emphasize the flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. A clean braai, a jug of water on the table, and a well-maintained swimming pool can help buyers imagine themselves living in your home.
• Security: While security is important, it should not be overly obtrusive. Physical security features should be present but not overwhelming. Stack back Trellidors and open security gates to create a welcoming environment.

Additional Considerations

• Plants and Flowers: Fresh flowers and healthy plants can enhance any room. Avoid overcrowding spaces with too many plants, and ensure outdoor pots are well-maintained. Nothing detracts from a home's appeal more than dying plants.
• Scents: Avoid strong or unpleasant smells, such as cigarettes or pets. Opt for light, fresh scents from diffusers or candles, but be cautious not to overdo it, as this can suggest you're masking other odours.
• Linen, Towels, and Covers: Freshness is key. Use clean, fluffy towels and crisp bed linen to create a welcoming atmosphere. Ensure cushion covers and throws are clean and in good condition.

Your Property Practitioner: Your Most Valuable Asset

Your property practitioner is your best resource for making your home as marketable as possible. Work together to achieve outstanding photographs and make show days exceptional. By collaborating closely, you can enhance your home's appeal and increase its chances of a successful sale.