02/05/2025
According to the technology-powered real estate brokerage Redfin, nearly 40% of baby boomers have lived in their current home for at least 20 years and 16% for 10-19 years. For Gen Xers, more than one-third (35%) have lived in their home for at least 10 years. If it’s been decades since you’ve moved, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to selling your home. For instance, staging your home to allow prospective buyers to envision the potential your home holds is probably more important now than it was the last time you bought a home. To help you prepare, here’s some home selling advice for seniors on home staging.
How to Stage Your Home
Forget those stuffy staging rules you’ve heard. We’re going for fun, fresh and seasonally savvy. After all, who wants a house that feels like a museum? Buyers want to imagine living there, not just looking at it. So, let’s dive into some staging secrets that’ll have your home flying off the market faster than you can say “sold!”
First Impressions: Make ‘Em Go “Wow!”
Think curb appeal, but with a seasonal twist!
- Spring: Bursting blooms are your best friend! Plant some colorful flowers, add a fresh wreath to the door and power wash that porch until it sparkles. Think “fresh and inviting.”
- Summer: Time for some outdoor living vibes! Set up your patio with comfy furniture, string some lights and get those BBQ tools ready. Think “backyard oasis.”
- Fall: Embrace the cozy! Pumpkins, mums and a rustic wreath will add instant charm. Think “harvest happiness.”
- Winter: Make it warm and welcoming! A festive doormat, some twinkling lights and maybe even a faux (or real!) mini-Christmas tree will do the trick. Think “cozy comfort.”
Declutter and Depersonalize (But Keep It Real)
Yes, you need to declutter. But don’t go overboard and make it look like no one lives there! Keep some personality, just not too much. Pack away the super personal stuff, like family photos and your prized collection of rubber ducks. But keep a few tasteful decorations that complement the season. Think “stylishly simple.”
Light It Up (Naturally and Artificially)
Nobody likes a dark and gloomy house. Let the sunshine in! Open those curtains and blinds! Use bright light bulbs and add lamps to any dark corners. Think “bright and airy.”
Define the Space (Don’t Leave ‘Em Guessing)
Make it crystal clear what each room is for. No mystery rooms allowed! Stage that spare room as a guest room or home office. Show off your dining room’s potential for family gatherings. Think “functional and fabulous.”
Neutralize and Refresh (But Keep It Interesting)
Think sophisticated neutrals, not boring beige. A fresh coat of paint in a light, neutral color can work wonders. Add pops of seasonal color with throw pillows, blankets or artwork. Think “tastefully trendy.”
Focus on the Hot Spots (Kitchens and Bathrooms Rule!)
These are the rooms that can make or break a sale. Deep clean everything until it shines! Organize cabinets and drawers to show off all that glorious space. Think “sparkling and spacious.”
Add Those Special Touches (Little Things Matter)
These are the details that buyers will remember.
- Spring: Fresh flowers, a bowl of lemons and a light, floral scent. Think “springtime freshness.”
- Summer: A pitcher of iced tea on the patio table, some beach towels by the pool (if you have one!) and a subtle citrus scent. Think “summertime fun.”
- Fall: A cozy throw blanket on the sofa, a pumpkin spice candle and a bowl of apples. Think “autumn ambiance.”
- Winter: A warm fire in the fireplace (if you have one!), a mug of hot cocoa on the coffee table and a pine or cinnamon scent. Think “winter wonderland.”
Outdoor Oasis (Don’t Forget the Yard!)
Your outdoor space is like an extra room, so make it count! Keep the landscaping neat and tidy. Add some outdoor furniture to create a relaxing space. Think “inviting and enjoyable.”
Ambiance is Everything (Set the Mood)
On open house day, create a welcoming atmosphere. Play some soft background music, open the windows for some fresh air (if the weather allows) and add subtle, seasonal scents. Think “relaxing and refreshing.”
So, there you have it! Seasonal staging secrets that will make your home the hottest property on the market. Remember, it’s all about creating an inviting space where buyers can imagine themselves making memories. Now go out there and stage your home like a pro!
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