6 Last-Minute Seller Staging Suggestions

When you're marketing a home to sell, it needs to be ready to show potential buyers. Our REALTORS® know that home staging is easier and properly done when you have time to thoroughly declutter, clean, organize, and decorate your home. But last-minute showings can happen and you never know—that showing could be the ultimate buyer for your house. Some quick fixes can make your property stand out from the rest.

Here's a rundown of those little home-staging things you can do to prepare your home for last-minute showings.

1. Clean Around Your Home
   When you get that last-minute call from your real estate agent, don't get into a panic mode. Quickly double-check all appliances and make sure they are spotless. No one wants to see films of grease, splattered spaghetti sauce in their potential new home. Wipe down kitchen counters and sinks and make sure all items are cleaned and out of sight. Likewise, make sure your bathroom is gleaming, from the sink drain to the corners of the tub to that spot that you think no one can see.
   
   It's also important to go through all the rooms and make sure that everything is in order. Keep your closets neat and avoid shoving random items in there because it may give a false impression of inadequate storage space. Put some fresh flowers in the vases or just get rid of the current ones if they're drooping. And don't forget to clear your patio and walkway because those are some of the first areas a buyer sees.
   
   
2. Remove Odors
   Kids, a moist bathroom, and last night's dinner dishes can make your home smell. You're probably used to your home's aroma so you may need a neighbor or friend to help with this one. Baking cookies or cinnamon-coated apples to give to buyers can be an inexpensive trick for getting rid of odors and giving your home an inviting aroma. It's also a good idea to burn vanilla-scented candles or grind a lemon to remove kitchen odors. If you're a smoker, start limiting your smoking to the outdoors and take important steps to deodorize indoors. Don't forget to empty your garbage cans.
   
   
3. Ensure the Pet Areas Are Clean
   You may have your house all clean and ready for the showing, but your furry friend might have other ideas. Pet odors and stains can derail your home showing. Do a last-minute inspection of all pet areas to make sure there aren't any pleasant surprises. Empty the kitty litter and sweep floors to clean up pet hair that may have accumulated since your last thorough cleaning. Keep disinfecting wipes at hand to get rid of the odors.
   
   
4. Get Rid of Clutter
   Clutter in your home distracts buyers from valuable features and makes your home seem like it does not have enough storage space. With a little bit of planning, you can quickly put away the knickknacks and dazzle the last-minute home shoppers. Start working on the usual clutter spots such as the family room, kitchen counters, bathroom countertops, and playroom. You may want to keep a basket handy to toss stuff into in a hurry. It's easy to toss everything into the closet to hide it away, but keep in mind that buyers will be interested in such spaces. So, take advantage of concealed spaces that are not easily viewable.
   
   
5. Open the Curtains and Turn on the Lights
   Take a quick run through the house and open all the curtains, shades, and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible during the showing. Make sure you turn on the lights in every room, including overhead lights, and floor and table lights. Also, remember to dust your light fixtures, empty out the dead bugs and clean off any grime.
   
   
6. Depersonalize
   Buyers want to envision themselves living in your home. To make that possible, remove religious accessories, family photos, refrigerator art, and items with family members' names on them. Put away all toys and every other item that is highly evocative of the home's current residents.

Our REALTORS® are here to help simplify the selling process for you. Contact us for assistance with preparing and staging Mansfield homes for sale.