10 Mistakes To Avoid When Styling Homes For Sale
With over a decade of experience, we’ve seen how styling your home for sale can significantly influence buyers’ perceptions of value and speed up the sale. Here’s our expert advice to ensure you showcase your home in the best light by avoiding these property styling pitfalls.
Over-Personalising or Over-Decluttering
Too many personal items, bold colours, or unique décor make it hard for buyers to imagine themselves in the home. On the other hand, stripping the space of all personality can leave it feeling cold and uninviting. Aim for balance. Neutralise your space by removing personal photos, opt for soft, neutral colours, and keep enough furniture to define each room without clutter. This allows buyers to picture their own belongings in a comfortable, well-organised space.
Neglecting Lighting and Atmosphere
Poor lighting can make rooms feel small and unwelcoming while bright, airy spaces create a sense of openness and warmth. In addition to lighting, cozy furnishings can create a welcoming atmosphere and impact a buyer’s first impression. Open curtains, replace dim bulbs with brighter ones, and add soft furnishings like cushions and rugs to create warmth. Make sure the home smells fresh, but avoid overpowering fragrances.
Ignoring Key Rooms and Curb Appeal
The kitchen, master bedroom, and bathrooms are major selling points, and they should be well-staged. Buyers are also influenced by curb appeal—the exterior of your home is their first impression before they even walk in. Ensure key rooms are tidy and inviting with simple, thoughtful décor. Pay attention to curb appeal by cleaning up the yard, planting fresh flowers, and giving the front door or entryway a fresh, welcoming touch.
Mismatched Furniture and Poor Layout
Furniture that is too large can make a space feel cramped, while furniture that’s too small can make it feel sparse. Similarly, poor furniture placement can disrupt the flow of a room, making it feel awkward or difficult to navigate. Choose furniture that suits the room’s size and arrange it to create a natural flow, allowing easy movement and highlighting the room’s functionality. This helps buyers see how they can live in and use the space comfortably.
Going Too Trendy and Overlooking Key Details
While trendy décor might seem stylish, overly bold choices can alienate buyers who prefer more classic, neutral styles. At the same time, outdated fixtures or worn details can make the home feel neglected, even if the larger elements are styled well. Stick to timeless, neutral décor that appeals to a broader audience. Focus on refreshing small details, like updating fixtures, replacing worn-out hardware, or adding modern accessories, to give the home a polished look without overwhelming buyers with personal taste.
These top tips will make your home more attractive to potential buyers, helping it sell faster and for a better price. Wanna leave it to the experts instead? Contact us today.