When it comes to selling a property you want to ensure the buyer can envision their belongings in the space. To do this, you want to be acutely aware of how you present the property during the open house.
Many properties are sold without any furnishings or accent pieces. Depending on the type of space it is, this can actually be a plus. However, if you’re selling a home or office space, consider moving in some furniture before the open house. Buyers want to be able to picture how their own furnishings will fit. It’s much more difficult to judge a room’s floor space if it’s completely empty. If you don’t have extra pieces to spare for the open house, rent some furniture or borrow it.
The same problem arises if your own furnishings could use an update. Presenting a space that is filled with tattered or well worn pieces can create a negative feel for the buyer. Take stock of what you have in the room, and if it does need a sprucing up, buy and use slipcovers. They work well and if you are planning on taking the furnishings with you, you can utilize them in your new space.
Use wall space during the open house too. Pictures create a wonderful ambiance, and you don’t need to search out a Van Gogh for this. Giving a small child a package of crayons, some paper and a table, might be all you need. Framing colorful artwork in stark black frames creates the most inexpensive accent pieces there is. With a few of these hung on the walls, you’ve instantly created a welcoming space.
If your open house is set for the fall or winter months, and the property boasts a fireplace, put it to good use. Lighting a fire creates a cozy atmosphere and adds a degree of warmth to the space. Most buyers who are looking for a property with a fireplace will be charmed by this extra touch.
Scent can also play a big part in how appealing a property is. Although some real estate insiders will go so far as to suggest baking bread during the open house, if you’re not keen on donning an apron, there’s a much simpler solution. Scented candles are inexpensive and very effective. Lighting them throughout the property is a great idea. Choose a neutral scent, such as vanilla or lavender. When a property smells appealing, the potential buyer is much more likely to spend extra time scoping things out.
A little bit of staging before an open house can really make a world of difference. You want your potential buyers to feel instantly at home. Take the time to do this and you may be rewarded with an early offer.
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