While many forego the staging process in favor of letting a house speak for itself, over 80% of buyers report that staging helped them imagine themselves living in the home.

If you’re trying to sell your home, staging can make your home stand out amongst others. However, as this process is crucial, you’ll want to ensure you take the time to properly plan and stage your home.

Not sure what mistakes to avoid when planning your home staging? Be sure to continue reading for some of the most common oversights and how to avoid them.

1. Poor Curb Appeal

The first thing potential buyers see when they arrive at your home is the exterior. One thing many people forget to do when staging a home for sale is to tend to their property!

Whether you repaint a faded, dirty door or add colorful flowers to your garden, increasing your curb appeal can add life, color, and vibrancy to your home.

Don’t forget to add cozy furniture or whimsical lighting to your backyard. These elements will help potential buyers feel comfortable and eager to spend time in the yard.

2. A Buildup of Dirt and Grime

Though decluttering is vital to making your home look presentable, many home staging companies will encourage a deep clean. While dirt may be easily hidden in pictures, photoshop can’t mask the smell when buyers arrive in person.

Be sure to dust and clean before guests arrive. Ceiling fan blades, baseboards, and valances often collect the most dust and can make your home look unappealing. 

3. Dark Lighting

When it comes to staging your home, no one will want to buy it if they can’t see it! Similarly, dark homes may make buyers wary of hidden imperfections masked in the darkness.

Be sure to highlight natural lighting by replacing any thick, dark curtains with lighter, thinner fabrics. Also, be sure to keep the lightbulbs consistent throughout your home for a cohesive appearance.

Don’t forget to take lighting for photos into consideration. This link can help you learn the importance of staging for photographs to accompany online listings.

4. Your Home Looks Too Staged

While fresh flowers and refreshments can subtly make your home feel welcoming, overloading flowers, unique artwork, and other decors can make your home feel more like a catalog than a liveable space.

Instead, opt for the “less is more” mindset. Adding a few pieces can help make a room more visually interesting without overwhelming buyers. Also, specific decor can help highlight appealing aspects of the room.

Home Staging Mistakes Can Scare Off Buyers

Though the home staging cost of some companies can be expensive, the investment is well worth it. 

Though staging seems easy enough, don’t be afraid to ask for help! Many professionals have a home staging certification and can assist you in making the best decisions for a quick sale.

If you found this guide to home staging mistakes and how to avoid them helpful, be sure to visit the rest of our website. There, you can find more great home and realty content.