When it comes to selling a home, first impressions are everything. Staging a home prepares and presents a property in its best possible light to potential buyers. This includes everything from the exterior grounds to the living spaces inside the house. Staging aims to make the home look appealing and welcoming, allowing potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Staging a home can improve the sale of the house and reduce the time it takes to get the home under contract. In this article, we will explore the importance of staging a home and provide tips on how to stage different areas of the house for real estate pictures.
Interior wall color trends are constantly changing, but some popular colors that are currently in vogue include:
Warm Neutrals: Warm neutrals like beige, cream, and light grey are timeless and versatile, and they can make a room feel cozy and inviting. Sherwin Williams’ “Agreeable Gray” are two popular warm neutral colors.
Moody Blues: Deep blues like navy and indigo are becoming more popular as statement colors for accent walls or entire rooms. Sherwin Williams’ “Naval” and Benjamin Moore’s “Hale Navy” are popular moody blue colors.
Earth Tones: Earth tones like terracotta, rust, and olive green are warm and inviting, and they can add a touch of nature to any room. Sherwin Williams’ “Cavern Clay” and Benjamin Moore’s “Terra Cotta” are two popular earth tone colors.
Soft Pinks: Soft pinks are gaining popularity as a trendy and subtle way to add color to a room. Sherwin Williams’ “Romance” and Benjamin Moore’s “Pink Bliss” are popular soft pink colors.
Greens: Greens like sage, eucalyptus, and forest green are calming and can bring a touch of nature indoors. Sherwin Williams’ “Restful” and Benjamin Moore’s “Sage” are popular green colors.
Here are some links to pictures of these popular interior wall colors for reference:
"Stage Your Home for Success: Tips and Ideas for the Perfect Interior and Exterior Presentation"
Landscape
The landscape of a property is the first thing potential buyers will see when viewing real estate pictures. Here are some tips on how to best stage the landscape for real estate pictures:
Clean and tidy: Make sure the landscape is clean and tidy. Remove any dead plants, weeds, and debris. Clean up any clutter or tools and store them away.
Add some color: Add some colorful plants or flowers to the landscape to make it look more inviting. Use flowers or plants that are easy to maintain and add pops of color.
Mow the lawn: Make sure the lawn is mowed and edged, creating clean lines and a neat appearance.
Define garden beds: Define the garden beds with edging or borders to create a defined and polished look.
Put fresh mulch in flower beds.
Add seating: Consider adding seating areas such as a bench, chairs, or a table to make the landscape look more inviting and functional.
Lighting: Use lighting to highlight the landscape’s best features such as trees, shrubs, or water features. Make sure the lighting is not too bright and complements the landscape’s natural beauty.
Keep it simple: Avoid overdoing it with too many decorations, ornaments, or accessories. Keep it simple and let the natural beauty of the landscape speak for itself.
Make sure all trash cans and vehicles are out of sight from the front of the home.
By following these tips, you can create a landscape that looks clean, inviting, and appealing to potential buyers in real estate pictures.
The homes interior
Foyer/Entry
The foyer is the first area of a home that potential buyers will see, so it is important to make a great first impression. Here are some tips on how to best stage the foyer for real estate pictures:
Create a focal point: Add a statement piece, such as a colorful piece of art or a decorative table, to draw the eye and create a focal point in the space.
Declutter: Remove any excess items like shoes, coats, and bags to create a sense of spaciousness.
Add some greenery: A potted plant or vase of fresh flowers can add a touch of color and life to the space.
Use lighting: Make sure the foyer is well-lit to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Add a stylish light fixture or a table lamp for added ambiance.
Keep it clean: Ensure that the foyer is spotless, including the floors, walls, and any windows or mirrors.
Make it functional: If space allows, add a small bench or stool for guests to sit and put on shoes.
By following these tips, you can create a welcoming and inviting foyer that will impress potential buyers and make a great first impression in your real estate pictures.
Formal Living Room
The formal living room is often a more elegant and sophisticated space in the home. Here are some tips on how to best stage a formal living room for real estate pictures:
Declutter: Remove any clutter or personal items from the room, including excess furniture, decorative items, and personal photos. A clean and organized space will look more spacious and inviting in pictures.
Arrange furniture: Arrange the furniture to create a conversational grouping, with a focal point such as a fireplace or a piece of artwork. Use neutral colors and classic patterns to create a timeless look.
Add decorative accents: Add decorative accents such as a decorative vase, candles, or artwork to add color and interest to the room. Use subtle colors and elegant pieces to create a sophisticated and refined look.
Highlight the room’s features: If the formal living room has any unique architectural features, such as crown molding or a built-in bookcase, make sure they are highlighted in the photos.
Use lighting: Use lighting, such as a chandelier or table lamps, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ensure that the lighting is not too bright or too dim, and that it highlights the room’s best features.
Use mirrors: Mirrors can make a small space appear larger and reflect natural light. Place a mirror on the wall opposite a window to create a brighter and more open feel.
Keep it simple: Remember that less is more when it comes to staging a formal living room for real estate pictures. Keep the decor simple and elegant, and avoid anything too busy or distracting.
By following these tips, you can create a formal living room that looks elegant, sophisticated, and appealing to potential buyers in real estate pictures.
Dining Room
Staging a formal dining room for real estate pictures requires attention to detail and a focus on highlighting the room’s best features. Here are some tips to help you stage a formal dining room effectively:
Clear the clutter: Start by removing any clutter from the room, such as paperwork, personal items, or excess furniture. A clean, uncluttered space will look more inviting and spacious in pictures.
Set the table: Set the dining table with a simple and elegant place setting, including plates, glasses, silverware, and a centerpiece such as fresh flowers or a decorative bowl. Use neutral colors and patterns to create a classic, timeless look.
Create ambiance: Turn on the lights and open the curtains or blinds to let natural light into the room. Use lamps or other lighting fixtures to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
Add decorative accents: Add decorative accents such as artwork, candles, or decorative pillows to bring color and interest to the room. Avoid anything too personal or trendy, as it may not appeal to potential buyers.
Highlight the room’s features: If the dining room has a fireplace, built-in shelving, or other architectural details, make sure they are highlighted in the photos.
Keep it simple: Remember that less is more when it comes to staging a formal dining room for real estate pictures. Keep the decor simple and elegant, and avoid anything too busy or distracting.
By following these tips, you can create a formal dining room that looks inviting and appealing to potential buyers in real estate pictures.
Kitchen
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home and is one of the most important rooms when it comes to selling a house. Here are some tips on how to best stage a kitchen for real estate pictures:
Clear the countertops: Remove all clutter and personal items from the countertops to create a clean, spacious look. Leave only a few decorative items or a bowl of fruit to add color and interest.
Deep clean the kitchen: Ensure that the kitchen is spotlessly clean, with all appliances, counters, and floors wiped down and free of dirt and grime.
Organize the cabinets and pantry: Buyers may open cabinets and pantries, so ensure they are organized and tidy. Use baskets and containers to keep things organized and maximize space.
Add some greenery: Plants and fresh flowers can add a touch of life to a kitchen, making it look more inviting and appealing.
Keep appliances clean: Ensure all appliances, including the stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher, are spotless and in good working order. Remove any magnets or personal items from the refrigerator.
Add lighting: Use lighting to create a warm and inviting ambiance in the kitchen. Open blinds or curtains to let in natural light and add task lighting under cabinets to highlight workspaces.
Set the table: If the kitchen has a dining area, set the table with place settings and a centerpiece to create a welcoming and inviting space.
By following these tips, you can create a kitchen that looks clean, organized, and inviting to potential buyers in real estate pictures.
Primary Bedroom
The master bedroom is a place where potential buyers can imagine themselves relaxing and unwinding. Here are some tips on how to best stage a master bedroom for real estate pictures:
Clear the clutter: Remove any clutter or personal items from the bedroom, including clothes, shoes, and jewelry. A clean and organized space will look more spacious and inviting in pictures.
Make the bed: Make the bed with clean, crisp linens and add decorative pillows or a throw blanket to create a luxurious and inviting feel.
Add some accents: Add a few decorative accents, such as artwork or a vase of flowers, to add color and interest to the room. Use subtle colors and elegant pieces to create a refined and sophisticated look.
Use lighting: Use lighting, such as bedside lamps or a floor lamp, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ensure that the lighting is not too bright or too dim, and that it highlights the room’s best features.
Highlight the room’s features: If the master bedroom has any unique features, such as a fireplace or a bay window, make sure they are highlighted in the photos.
Keep it neutral: Use neutral colors, such as beige or gray, on the walls and bedding to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. Avoid anything too bold or trendy.
Create a spa-like atmosphere: Create a spa-like atmosphere by adding luxurious touches such as fluffy towels, scented candles, and a cozy rug.
By following these tips, you can create a master bedroom that looks inviting, relaxing, and appealing to potential buyers in real estate pictures.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms are an important part of any home and can greatly influence a potential buyer’s decision. Here are some tips on how to best stage bedrooms for real estate pictures:
Clear the clutter: Remove any clutter or personal items from the bedrooms, including clothes, toys, and accessories. A clean and organized space will look more spacious and inviting in pictures.
Make the beds: Make the beds with clean, fresh linens and add decorative pillows or a throw blanket to create a cozy and inviting feel.
Add some accents: Add a few decorative accents, such as artwork or a vase of flowers, to add color and interest to the room. Use subtle colors and elegant pieces to create a refined and sophisticated look.
Use lighting: Use lighting, such as bedside lamps or a floor lamp, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ensure that the lighting is not too bright or too dim, and that it highlights the room’s best features.
Highlight the room’s features: If the bedrooms have any unique features, such as a window seat or a built-in bookcase, make sure they are highlighted in the photos.
Keep it neutral: Use neutral colors, such as beige or gray, on the walls and bedding to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. Avoid anything too bold or trendy.
Create a welcoming feel: Add some cozy touches such as a rug, curtains, or a comfortable chair to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.
By following these tips, you can create bedrooms that look inviting, comfortable, and appealing to potential buyers in real estate pictures.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are an essential part of any home, and staging them correctly can greatly improve the appeal of your property in real estate pictures. Here are some tips on how to best stage the bathroom for real estate pictures:
Clear the clutter: Remove any clutter from the countertops, shower, and bathtub. A clean and organized space will look more spacious and inviting in pictures.
Clean thoroughly: Make sure the bathroom is spotlessly clean, including the bathtub, shower, toilet, and sink. Clean any stains, soap scum, or grime.
Add decorative accents: Add decorative accents such as fresh flowers, plants, or candles to create a spa-like atmosphere. Use neutral colors and simple patterns to create a timeless and elegant look.
Use lighting: Use lighting to create a bright and inviting atmosphere. If possible, use natural light to highlight the bathroom’s best features. If natural light is not an option, use soft white light bulbs to create a warm and inviting feel.
Hide personal items: Hide personal items such as toothbrushes, razors, and personal hygiene products. These items can be distracting and take away from the overall look of the bathroom.
Accessorize with towels and rugs: Add towels and a rug to create a cohesive and polished look. Use soft and fluffy towels and a coordinating rug to create a luxurious and inviting feel.
Add storage: If possible, add storage solutions such as a small shelf or a decorative basket to store extra towels or toiletries. This will give the bathroom a clean and organized look.
By following these tips, you can create a bathroom that looks clean, inviting, and appealing to potential buyers in real estate pictures.
In conclusion, staging a home is a crucial step in optimizing the sale of a property. By taking the time to properly stage a home, a seller can create a welcoming and inviting environment that will appeal to potential buyers and set their home apart from the competition. A well-staged home can help to highlight a home’s best features, create a sense of space, and allow potential buyers to envision themselves living in the home. This can ultimately result in a faster sale and a higher selling price for the property. Staging doesn’t have to be expensive, but it does require effort and attention to detail. By following some simple staging tips and ideas, a seller can greatly increase the chances of selling their home quickly and for the best possible price.
