Selling your home in Melbourne? That’s a big step.
Often, memories were built, children grew up, and milestones were celebrated. But now, it’s time to move on. The home that saw so much of your life must now be handed over to someone else. It’s a bittersweet journey.
How can you help that?
With home staging Melbourne. Staging means making your home look its best.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a straightforward “Home Staging Checklist.” And by the end of it, your home won’t just look ready; it’ll feel ready for its next chapter.
Home Staging Checklist:
Here is a checklist to make sure you stage your home in the best way possible.
1. Clean Everything
A clean home not only looks good, but it also feels good.
a. Clean all surfaces
From kitchen counters to bathroom tiles, every surface should be clean.
b. Vacuum all rooms
This includes not just the floors but also the sofas and under furniture.
c. Windows should sparkle
Clean windows allow for more natural light and offer clearer views.
Read More: The Benefits Of Professional Home Staging And How It Affects The Sale Price
2. Take Out Extra Things
Potential buyers should be able to envision their life in the house.
a. Clear tables and shelves
Less is more. The minimal decor makes spaces feel larger.
b. Keep only needed furniture
Select pieces that enhance the room’s function.
c. Box up extra stuff.
Consider renting a storage unit if necessary.
3. Make It “Anybody’s Home”
Your home should become a blank canvas.
a. Remove your photos
This depersonalizes the space, making it universally appealing.
b. Paint walls in easy colors
Neutral tones like beige, gray, or off-white are recommended.
c. Every room should have one job
Define the purpose of each room clearly.
4. Fix Small Things
Minor repairs can make a significant difference.
a. Fix broken things like handle
It’s often the small details that catch the eye.
b. Stop taps from dripping
This can be a sign of neglect.
c. Fresh paint hides wall marks
A fresh coat can revive the entire room.
5. The Outside Matters Too
First impressions are often lasting.
a. Grass should be short
Regularly mow your lawn.
b. Flowers add happy colors
Consider seasonal blooms.
c. Paths should be clean
Power wash if needed.
Read More: Staging Outside Home Spaces
6. Place Furniture Well
Well-placed furniture can optimize space.
a. Keep walking paths clear
Ensure easy movement through the home.
b. Got a fireplace? Let it shine
Highlight it as a cozy focal point.
c. Proportion is key
Small furniture for small rooms
Read More: Small Space Domestic Styling: A Way To Make The Most Of Your Limited Square Photos
7. Every Corner Counts
Don’t overlook any space.
a. Got a balcony?
Add a seat. Transform it into a cozy nook.
b. Make storage rooms tidy
Buyers love ample storage.
c. A clean garage is good
It’s not just for cars but for storage too.
8. Keep It Fresh Always
Maintenance is as crucial as the initial clean-up.
a. Dust often
Keep surfaces gleaming.
b. The garden should stay neat
Trim bushes and water plants.
c. Fresh air is good
It refreshes the space and clears out odours.
9. Ask Friends for Eyes
An outsider’s perspective can be illuminating.
a. Friends give new ideas
They might see the potential you missed.
b. Experts help more
Consider hiring a professional stager.
c. Visitors give feedback.
Use it constructively.
10. Show The Special Parts
Celebrate what makes your home unique.
a. Got a view?
Show it off. – Ensure nothing obstructs it.
b. Wood floors?
Keep them shiny. – Consider a professional polish.
c. Big kitchens are loved
Organize it so it appears functional and spacious.
11. Welcome with an Attractive Entrance
The doorway is a silent greeter. Make it warm and welcoming.
a. Update the door
A fresh coat of paint or a modern door can change the entire look of the entrance.
b. Doormats
A clean, new doormat can offer a welcoming touch.
c. Lighting
Ensure the entrance is well-lit. Consider adding porch lights or garden lights leading up to the entrance.
12. Modernize Fixtures and Hardware
Small updates can bring a contemporary touch without major renovations.
a. Update cabinet handles
Modern handles can freshen up older cabinets.
b. Modern faucets
Sleek designs can make the bathroom and kitchen look updated.
c. Light Fixtures
Consider replacing outdated chandeliers or pendant lights.
13. Add Mirrors
Mirrors can make a room feel more expansive.
a. Larger spaces
In living or dining rooms, a large mirror can act as a statement piece.
b. Smaller rooms
Consider placing a mirror opposite a window to reflect light and make the room feel bigger.
c. Entryway
A mirror near the entrance allows for last-minute checks and adds depth.
14. Neutralize Odors
No smell is the best smell.
a. Pet odors
Clean litter boxes, wash pet bedding, and use odor-neutralizers.
b. Kitchen smells
Avoid cooking with strong-smelling ingredients before a viewing.
c. Fresh scents
Instead of artificial air fresheners, consider natural scents like boiled cinnamon or fresh flowers.
15. Personal Spaces – Kid’s & Offices
These rooms tell stories; make sure they are universally appealing.
a. Kid’s rooms
Neutralize overly gendered rooms to appeal to a broader audience.
b. Offices
A clean and organized workspace can help potential buyers visualize productivity.
c. Reading nooks
Showcase them with good lighting and a comfy chair.
Read More: Maximise Productivity with a Well-Staged Home Office
16. Floors and Carpets
A solid foundation matters.
a. Clean carpets
Consider professional cleaning to get out stubborn stains.
b. Hardwood floors
Ensure they’re polished and free of scratches.
c. Tiling
Replace any cracked tiles and ensure the grout is clean.
17. Add Greenery
Plants add a touch of life.
a. Indoor plants
Succulents, snake plants, or pothos can add a green touch without needing much maintenance.
b. Outdoor plants
Potted plants on a balcony or porch can enhance curb appeal.
c. Flower arrangements
Fresh flowers can brighten up a dining table or entranceway.
Read More: Top 10 Eco-Friendly Home Staging Ideas
18. Stage Unused Spaces
Show potential in every corner.
a. Under stairs
Consider a mini office or storage unit.
b. Empty nooks
A reading space or coffee corner can charm buyers.
c. Basements
Highlight them as entertainment areas or hobby spaces.
19. Add Art Thoughtfully
Art personalizes and beautifies.
a. Neutral art
Abstracts, landscapes, or black-and-white photos are universally appealing.
b. Avoid personal or polarizing pieces
Keep the gallery family-friendly.
c. Frame consistently
Matching frames can bring cohesion even to diverse artworks.
20. Accessibility and Safety
Your home should be a haven.
a. Clear pathways
Ensure hallways and pathways are clear of obstacles.
b. Safety for kids and elders
Ensure stairways have railings and sockets have covers.
c. Highlight safety features
If you’ve invested in security systems or smoke detectors, let it be known.
Why Use Home Staging and why it works?
Selling a home is more than a transaction. It’s about helping someone else see a future in a space you once called yours. That’s where home staging comes in. It’s the art of preparing a home to be sold, making it appealing to the highest number of potential buyers.
And here’s where we come into the picture. At Decor2Sell, we understand homes, and more importantly, we understand people. We know what they’re looking for, and we know how to present it to them.
Let’s explain why this process is so effective.
A Clean Home Feels New
Clean things feel new and nice. Think about new shoes or clean sheets. A clean home makes people think of a fresh start. They think, “I can make memories here.” Clean homes show love and care. When people see clean rooms and floors, they feel welcome. They think the old owner took good care. It makes them trust the home more.
Open Spaces Help Imagination
A home full of stuff feels tight and small. But open spaces? They are like blank papers. People can dream. They think of where their sofa or bed goes. They picture their kids playing or running. These empty spaces let people think and plan. A less crowded home also feels bigger. And everyone likes big homes.
Simple Colors Let People Dream
Colors say a lot. Bright, strong colors can be too much for some. Soft colors, like white, beige, or gray, are calm and peaceful. They are like empty canvases. People can imagine their favorite colors on them. Soft colors also make rooms feel light and big. This helps in making the home feel happy.
Fixing Things Shows Care
Even small problems can be big worries. A dripping tap. A door that sticks. A cracked window. These might seem small, but they can scare buyers away. When things are fixed, it’s a good sign. It tells the buyers that the home is well-loved. That the owner took good care of.
First Look Matters
The first thing people notice is the outside. A green lawn, pretty flowers, and a nice door are welcoming. They make the home feel friendly. It’s like the home is smiling and saying hello. This can make people love the home before they even step inside.
Every Room Has a Story
Every room in a home has a job. Living rooms are for family time. Bedrooms are for sleeping. Kitchens are for cooking tasty meals. When each room looks ready for its job, it’s easier for people to imagine living there.
People Love Special Things
Some parts of a home are very special. Maybe it’s a warm fireplace. Maybe it’s a sunny balcony. Or a big kitchen for cooking. These things stand out. They make people feel extra good about their homes.
The Power of Good Smells
A good smell can change how we feel. Think of fresh bread or flowers. When a home smells good, it feels welcoming. So, always keep your home smelling nice. It makes a big difference.
Make It Feel Like ‘Their’ Home
People love things that feel like theirs. When they see a house, they want to picture their life there. Removing personal photos or items makes this easy. It helps them see their own family and memories in the space. The home becomes a canvas for their dreams.
Letting the Light In
Light makes things bright and cheerful. Dark rooms feel small and sad. Bright rooms? They feel big and happy. Using curtains that let light in is a good move. Or adding lamps to dark corners. When a home shines bright, it feels alive.
Quiet Homes Feel Peaceful
Noise can be distracting. A loud road outside or a creaky floor can worry buyers. Making sure the home is quiet is key. Maybe add soft rugs to reduce noise. Or use plants to block street sounds. A quiet home feels calm and safe.
Lesser-Used Spaces
Every room has a role. Even the small storage room or the laundry area. Staging these spaces is good. It shows buyers how to use every inch. Maybe add shelves to storage rooms. Or a small chair in a quiet corner. Every space can tell a good story.
Fresh Air, Fresh Feel
Air matters. Stale air can feel heavy. Fresh air?
It’s light and clean. Opening windows helps. It lets the old air out and the new air in. This simple act can change how a home feels. A breezy home feels like a fresh start.
Flow and Movement
Moving into a home should feel easy. Doors should open fully. Paths should be clear. When people walk around, they shouldn’t bump into things. A good flow makes the home feel ready to live in.
Pet Care and Impressions
Pets are lovely. But not everyone likes them. Some people might be scared. Others might have allergies. Before showing the home, clean pet areas. Maybe keep pets with a friend for a day. A pet-free home can be more inviting for all.
Read More: Why Staging Your Home Is Important, And The Psychology Behind It
Bringing in Decor2Sell
We’re not just any home staging company. We’re an experience. At Decor2Sell, we’ve woven our magic across numerous homes in Melbourne. Every project is personal. Every home is treated with the care and respects it deserves. We believe in crafting spaces that resonate, that speak, that beckon.
Our promise is simple: entrust us with your home, and we will make it market-ready. Not just in terms of aesthetics but in value too. We’re not just about making homes look good. We’re about ensuring they get the value they truly deserve.
Visit: Our Gallery
In Conclusion
Selling a home is much more than a transaction; it’s a transition. It’s about making sure your beloved home finds the right hands. And a significant part of that is presentation. With this home staging checklist, you’re equipped to turn your home into an irresistible proposition for potential buyers. And with Decor2Sell by your side, success isn’t just possible; it’s assured.
So, if you’re in Melbourne and you want your home to shine its brightest, reach out. Let’s embark on this journey together. Let’s ensure your home is not just seen but also remembered.
Remember, it’s not just about staging; it’s about storytelling. And we at Decor2Sell, are here to help you tell the best one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How much can I expect to pay for home staging?
Pricing varies. A small home needing just a few touches may cost less. A larger space needing more attention may cost more. Different stages have different fees. It’s wise to check and compare quotes.
Do I have to leave my home while it’s being staged?
No need to leave unless you want to. Some people stay, some leave. It’s your choice. Just remember, giving the stagers room to work can help speed things up.
Can I just stage a part of my home?
Yes, you can! Some homeowners pick key rooms like the living or dining room. Some pick areas that help sell homes, like kitchens. Your budget and goals guide you.
Will staging make my small home feel bigger?
It can! Staging uses clever ideas to make rooms feel big. Light colours, good furniture placement, and removing extra things can all help. Your small space can feel warm and big.
What if I don’t like the staging style?
Stagers aim to please many buyers. But your feelings matter too. If something doesn’t feel right, say it. They’ll listen and try to find a balance.
What should I do with my stuff during staging?
Packing and storing personal items is common. Some move them to another spot. Your stager can give advice. The goal is to make your home shine, not cover it up.
How long does staging take?
Some homes need just a day. Others might need longer. It all depends on the job site. Your stager can tell you the time.
Is home staging worth the cost?
Many say yes. Staging can help a home sell faster. It can even boost the selling price. Think of it as an investment in your home’s future.
Can I stage my home myself?
You might. But pros know many tricks. They know how to make rooms feel just right. If you’re unsure, it might be good to hire help.
What happens if my home doesn’t sell right away?
Don’t worry too much. Some homes take time. Keep it looking nice and fresh. Listen to feedback from visitors. And work with your real estate team. They want to help you succeed.
What styles do stagers use?
Stagers pick styles that many people like. They often go for looks that feel modern and clean. But they also think about your home’s style and the buyer’s likely tastes.