Home staging for a memorable first impression

The importance of a first impression can never be overstated. This is especially true when prospective buyers view a property, and why it is important to ensure your property is dressed to impress when it goes on the market. 

"Consider that buyers are probably viewing tens of properties so whatever the seller can do to make their property stand out usually counts in their favour. Home staging, we see time and again, can go a long way in ensuring the property sells both fast and at the price the seller desires," says Silvana dos Reis Marques, Franchisee at Leapfrog Pretoria East. 

Home staging, simply, refers to the actions taken to "dress up" or "stage" a property to make it more attractive and cosmetic and aesthetic details. 

Dos reis Marques points out that buyers typically only look at properties in their price range, so the seller is not really competing on price, but rather on that X-factor the property offers.

People need to be able to imagine themselves living in the space that they are considering purchasing. "More than the price, the condition of the property, the structure or the layout, the final decision for a buyer tends to be based on a feeling they have about the property - and that has a lot to do with what a property looks, feels and even smells like. 

Dos reis Marques has four practical tips for putting a property's best foot forward - and it doesn't involve heaps of money or the skill of an interior decorator. 

Clear the clutter 

There's a fine line between clutter and chaos, and while some viewers may regard the clutter as creative, it's probably best not to risk it! 

Make sure surfaces such as the kitchen counter are clutter-free when potential buyers are viewing the property. Clothes hanging over a chair or toys scattered on the living room floor may be so everyday to the (current) occupants that they don't notice it but it can easily overwhelm the potential buyer trying to visualise the full potential of the space. 

A property that is neat, clean and clutter-free is likely to appeal to more buyers than one where they need to squeeze past stuff and risk tripping over random things as they look around. 

Engage the senses 

In the same way that a great scent completes a beautiful outfit, a space that smells appealing rounds off a well staged property. Scent has a surprisingly strong effect on our emotions and walking into a space with a pleasant smell can sway potential buyers in a subtle way. Consider lighting a scented candle or misting the rooms with mild, but refreshing, room spray. It goes without saying that offensive smells - an over-full rubbish bin or the damp smell in room where the windows haven't been opened in a while - should be dealt with promptly. 

A light touch 

Natural light and fresh air goes a long way in making a space more inviting and attractive. People are drawn to light so make sure to open the curtains and blinds, and the windows for fresh air, as another way to up the appeal of the property. 

Natural light also allows the viewer to see the property in its most, um, natural way. For viewings that require artificial light - such as in the late afternoon or evening - try to avoid harsh overhead lighting and rather switch off the mood lighting if you can. Think dimmable downlights, wall scones and table lamps that offer softer, more ambient light. 

From the outside in 

Last but not least, it may be that buyers are mostly concerned with the inside of the property but it doesn't hurt to extend the stating to the outside. The outside is what is seen first, so ensure the exterior is also neat and tidy and that, at the very least, the walkway to the entrance is unobstructed. 

Home staging is about making the property as appealing to the potential buyer as possible, and is about a few minor actions (decluttering!), magic tricks and a touch of imagination to ensure the property is the best addressed.