Planning to put your property on the market? Presenting your property in its best light to attract prospective tenants or buyers.

When it’s time to sell or rent out property, be aware that first impressions matter! An untidy, gloomy place in need of some touch ups is unlikely to attract the interest of most buyers. Instead, it is worthwhile to make your property as attractive as possible so your prospective buyer/tenant will think “Wow, I cannot wait to occupy this space with my family/business!”.

Use these tips to best prepare your property (be it apartment, house, flat, condominium, shop lot, etc) before you take photographs for advertisements and when preparing for visits from prospective tenants and buyers.

#1. Tidy Up!

This is particularly relevant if this property is occupied.

As much as possible, you will want to remove any untidy messes. You want your prospective buyers and tenants to easily imagine themselves occupying the property, instead of having them distracted by your belongings strewn untidily.

Remove all clutter and visual clutter. This means you should aim for the following to be as blank as possible, except for some large appliances and a select few tasteful decorative items:

  • Floor
  • Table tops
  • Counter tops
  • Window sills
  • Floor
  • Walls

Tip: Try limiting the colors used in each space to three for a cleaner look

It is also recommended to store away personal belongings such as family photos, kids’ toys, personal memorabilia. In essence, remove things that are uniquely you, your family, your business in order to achieve a more neutral feel like a hotel. In this way, the prospective buyer or tenant can more easily picture themselves occupying the space.

#2. Clean Up!

Now that all the clutter is gone, you are probably faced with lots of dust, dirt, and stains that were previously covered by other things.

A clean space is an appealing place.

  • Wipe down surfaces and mop that floor.
  • Scrub the bathroom and polish your furniture.
  • Give your curtains, sofa covers, carpets a good wash.
  • Open your windows and let some fresh air in.
  • Keep the (emptied, please!) rubbish bin out of sight or covered with a lid.

Tip: You can use a flat mop to wipe your walls.

Have your prospects feel delighted with your home, not disturbed by stains, grime, or smell.

#3. Fix Up!

After tidying and cleaning, it becomes more apparent which items are obviously chipped, damaged, stained, or flawed in any way.

  • Turn cracked items around or place other items in front to cover up the problem areas.
  • Replace or fix obvious issues such as dripping tap or flickering lights.
  • Paint and a sponge are useful to cover up small stains.
  • Straighten any crooked wall hangings.

Do this so that your prospects can sweep their gaze across each space/room smoothly and not be distracted.

#4. Light Up!

Ensure your property is well-lit. Draw your curtains back and let natural light in. If needed, turn lights on at relevant areas to highlight spaces. A well-lit home is welcoming and lovely to spend time in, while a gloomy home feels oppressive.

Tip: All that light may increase indoor warmth. Keep your prospects cool by ensuring good ventilation or consider switching on air conditioning at a mild temperature.

#5. Walk-through with Your Camera On

Let’s clear your mind and see your home with fresh eyes. Hold up your phone, turn on your camera, start recording. Begin from the front of your property, all the way throughout, do a walkthrough. You will be surprised at how different the property may seem through the lens.

Some things to consider:

  • Do certain things stand out negatively?
  • Furniture needs to be rearranged?
  • Does it seem cluttered?
  • Maybe a decorative piece needs to be added or removed?

During your walk-through you may also want to think of how you want to show your prospects your home. This creates a smoother experience for your prospects.

  • Where will you stand?
  • What do you want to highlight in this or that area?
  • Where would your prospects sit/stand to collect thoughts and discuss questions?

Conclusion

Having a clean, tidy, and attractive looking property is an easy way into your prospective buyer’s or prospective tenant’s heart. Staging your property is all about presenting your property to its best advantage. With a little effort, you can soon see much interest!

 

What other ways do you stage your property?

 

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