Preparing Your Home for Photos and Showings

Whether or not you're planning to sell your home in the near future or a bit further down the road, keeping these simple tips and ideas in mind now will help you wow potential buyers when the time comes.

Less is More

Keep it simple. Remove unnecessary furniture, decor, toys, and personal items from shelves and any open areas, even cupboards and closets. Think "minimalist." The more surface area buyers can see, the easier it is for them to envision their belongings in the space.

Clear surfaces

All surfaces should be cleared, including bathroom and kitchen counters, coffee tables, night stands, etc. Only items that fit the room's functionality—soap dispenser, espresso machine, etc.—could remain, if they blend into the decor of the room. No more than 3 items should be visible.

De-Personalize

Though your family photos are beautiful, potential buyers don't need to see them. An unpersonalized space is ideal for potential buyers to visualize themselves in your home. Add a few neutral prints to add a little something to the walls, but remove all photographs with people.

Minimize Storage

Potential buyers will open closets, cupboards, and pantries to see how much storage space there is, and how their items will fit in your space. Keep your storage items to a minimum so buyers can see the shelving space. Minimize your wardrobe to a few neutral pieces hanging on matching hangers and reduce the number of plates and cups in your kitchen cupboards to a set of 4. Don't forget about the fridge and freezer either—organize items to showcase the appliance.

Neutral colours

Neutral colours like grey, white, beige, black, etc.—keep a small space from looking too busy or overwhelming. Colour can be sparingly added in decor elements like pillows, throw blankets, vases, and prints.