Before You Have an Open House

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

22 Jul 2006 06:22 AM

You can learn all kinds of neat "staging" tricks that will help make your home more appealing to buyers and will hopefully help you get better offers. Here are just a few simple things you can do before you have an open house.

Pay Attention to Curb Appeal

Your curb appeal may make buyers feel welcome or turn them away. Clutter is a problem outside as much as it is inside. Put away toys, sports gear, bikes, and lawn equipment. Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and clean up all debris. Add some color. If you don't have time to plant flowers from seeds or bulbs, pick up some starters and transplant them to inject a bit of brightness. Sweep or hose off the porch, deck, walkway, or driveway, if needed.

Make a Grand Entrance

The first area buyers see when they walk through the door should pull them in and make them want to see the rest of your home. If you don't have the time and money to do everything you'd like to do, concentrate your attention on the first large space people will see then move on to adjoining areas that are noticeable from the entrance. Work your way through the rest of the house as time and budget permits. Chances are you may have another open house at a later date, so keep going!

Make Your Home Feel as Spacious as Possible

Remove unnecessary pieces of furniture, large accessories, and large toys or other items that make different spaces feel crowded. Limit the number of accessories and personal items in view. Keep a hotel suite in mind as you work through your home, and try to mimic the crisp, minimal feel. Open window treatments to create an airy feel and move any large pieces that block windows or doors.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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