"Home Staging" is basically the art of first impressions. The concept of "home staging" is being more frequently used to effectively promote and market a home. However, while real estate agents are experts in the field of selling houses, many are not experts in design. If you are in the process of selling your home you should consider hiring a professional home stager to assist you. They work with the "flow" of a home, eliminate clutter, arrange furniture, and even assist in enhancing curb appeal. If you're more of a do-it-yourself type, below are some tips on improving your home's "first impression."

At the curb
Curb appeal is important because it's the first thing a potential buyer sees when they drive up to your house. Power-wash the siding and wash windows until they shine. Trees and garden should be tidy and weeded, and the lawn mowed and edged. Next, remove everything that isn't necessary and add touches such as large, lush flower pots or hanging planters.

Inside the house
The key to staging is to make it meaningful, set the tone and suggest countless possibilities. That means you need to remove everything that could distract the buyer's attention. Keep only what you must to remain functional.
Like the exterior, the inside needs to be neat and clean. If necessary, repaint with neutral colours.
Once the house is clean, stage your home with minimal furnishings. If you need inspiration, visit some model homes.
Clear out closets, cupboards, and drawers.
Strip the kitchen down to the necessities. Counters, however, should be clear, except for a decoratively placed bowl of fruit or bouquet of fresh flowers.
It's not necessary for individual rooms to be used for their original purpose as long as the functions they represent are logical and show the space off well.
Remove anything personal such as family pictures and mementos.
Arrange furniture to enhance the strengths of the room and facilitate traffic flow.
If your furniture shows signs of age, consider borrowing pieces.
Open the curtains to allow natural light to fill the room.
Appeal to the buyer's sense of smell. Hot apple cider, cinnamon rolls, or fresh baked cookies add a homey smell.
Simplicity and comfort is your ultimate goal!

Home Staging Checklist

• Are all counter-tops clean and clear?
• Have you removed unnecessary furniture throughout the house?
• Is the refrigerator free of children's art and magnets?

• Are the surfaces clean and clear?
• Are shower curtains clean and hung properly?
• Is the flooring clean and fresh?
• Are towels neatly hung?

• Is paint and wallpaper fresh and clean?
• Are the walls free from cracks and holes?
• Is there anything on the walls that need to be removed?

• Is the carpet clean and free from stains?
• Are hard surface floors clean and free from stains?

• Are all the windows clean?
• Are draperies and blinds clean?

• Remove any signs that this is a pet's home.
• Check the aroma
• Air out the home prior to showings.

• Open draperies and blinds.
• Turn on the radio to a soft music station, set the volume low.
• If you have time, bake a batch of cookies or muffins to create a warm, welcoming aroma.

Source: Charlene Rossiter, Sales Rep. at Signature Service GMAC Real Estate