November 19, 2024

What Professional Home Stagers Always Remove: A Guide to Decluttering for Sale

Selling your home can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to making it appealing to potential buyers. That’s where professional home stagers come in. These experts have a knack for transforming houses into inviting spaces that resonate with buyers. A crucial part of their magic is the art of strategic decluttering. They know what items to remove and how to create a sense of spaciousness and tranquility that entices buyers to envision themselves living there.

This guide will delve into the secrets of professional home stagers, unveiling the items they always remove to help you present your home in its best light and attract offers.

Understanding the Psychology of Home Staging

Home staging isn’t about making your house look like a magazine spread; it’s about highlighting its best features and appealing to the largest number of potential buyers. It’s about creating a neutral and inviting atmosphere that allows buyers to picture their own belongings and lifestyle within the space.

Professional stagers understand the psychology behind buying decisions. They know that clutter and personal items can distract buyers and make a space feel cramped and unwelcoming. By removing these distractions, they create a blank canvas that allows buyers to focus on the home’s positive attributes.

What Professional Stagers Always Remove: A Room-by-Room Guide

1. The Entryway

The entryway sets the first impression for your home. It’s crucial to make it inviting and uncluttered.

Shoes and Boots: Store shoes and boots in a closet, under a bench, or in a designated shoe rack.
Coats and Jackets: Keep outerwear organized in a closet or on a coat rack.
Bags and Backpacks: Store bags and backpacks in a closet, on a shelf, or in a designated area.
Mail and Papers: Declutter mail and papers promptly and keep them out of sight.
Excess Furniture: Remove any unnecessary furniture, such as a bulky coat rack or an oversized ottoman, to create a sense of spaciousness.

Tip: Consider adding a welcoming mat, a small plant, or a decorative bowl to enhance the entryway’s aesthetic appeal.

2. The Living Room

The living room is the heart of the home, where buyers envision relaxation and entertainment.

Personal Photos and Family Mementos: While sentimental, these items can distract buyers and make the space feel too personal. Consider replacing them with neutral artwork or decorative pieces.
Excess Furniture: Remove any unnecessary furniture, such as extra chairs, ottomans, or bulky coffee tables. Buyers need space to imagine themselves lounging and socializing in the room.
Clutter on Surfaces: Clear off coffee tables, side tables, and shelves to create a clean and uncluttered look. Keep only a few decorative items or books.
Entertainment Equipment: Minimize the visibility of electronics, such as TVs, gaming consoles, and speakers. Consider placing them in a cabinet or on a shelf.
Too Many Pillows: Remove excess pillows from couches and chairs to create a more streamlined and spacious look. Keep it to 2-3 pillows per seat.

Tip: Consider using a neutral color scheme and incorporating natural elements like plants or candles to create a relaxing and inviting ambiance.

3. The Dining Room

The dining room should be a space that encourages connection and gatherings.

Personal Decor: Remove any personal items, such as family photos or collectibles, from the dining table or buffet.
Excess Chairs: If you have more chairs than usual, consider storing them in a closet or another room.
Placemats and Tablecloths: Use neutral and elegant placemats and tablecloths, avoiding bright colors or intricate patterns that could distract buyers.
Clutter on Surfaces: Clear the dining table of any unnecessary items, such as papers, books, or mail.
Excessive Table Setting: Keep the table setting simple and elegant. A set of plates, glasses, and silverware is sufficient.

Tip: Consider setting the dining table with a centerpiece of fresh flowers or a decorative bowl to add a touch of elegance.

4. The Kitchen

The kitchen is a crucial selling point, and buyers want to see a clean and functional space.

Countertop Clutter: Clear off countertops of all appliances, gadgets, and unnecessary items. Keep only a few decorative items or a bowl of fruit.
Dishcloths and Towels: Store dishcloths and towels in a drawer or cupboard.
Trash Cans: Empty and conceal trash cans.
Refrigerator Magnets: Remove magnets and other items from the refrigerator doors to create a clean and uncluttered look.
Excess Appliances: If you have multiple coffee makers, blenders, or other appliances, consider storing them in a cabinet or pantry to minimize clutter.

Tip: Consider adding a fresh bouquet of flowers or a vase of greenery to add a touch of life and freshness to the kitchen.

5. The Bedrooms

Bedrooms should convey a sense of peace and tranquility.

Personal Items: Remove personal photos, books, clothing, and other personal items from nightstands, dressers, and shelves.
Excess Furniture: Remove unnecessary furniture, such as extra chairs, ottomans, or large dressers.
Clutter on Surfaces: Clear off nightstands, dressers, and shelves to create a clean and uncluttered look. Keep only a few decorative items or books.
Bedside Tables: Keep bedside tables tidy with only a lamp, book, and alarm clock.
Excessive Bedding: Keep the bedding simple and neat. Use a neutral colored duvet cover and a few decorative pillows.

Tip: Make sure the beds are made neatly, and consider adding a touch of elegance with a throw blanket or decorative pillow.

6. The Bathrooms

Bathrooms should be clean and inviting.

Toiletries and Medications: Store toiletries and medications in drawers, cabinets, or baskets.
Toothbrushes and Razors: Keep toothbrushes and razors hidden in drawers or covered containers.
Towels: Keep only a few decorative towels on display and store excess towels in a linen closet or cabinet.
Trash Cans: Empty and conceal trash cans.
Bath Mats: Ensure bath mats are clean and in good condition.

Tip: Consider adding a plant or a scented candle to add a touch of freshness and ambiance to the bathroom.

7. The Backyard

The backyard is an extension of your home and should be presented as a relaxing and inviting space.

Yard Clutter: Remove any unnecessary items, such as old toys, garden tools, hoses, and trash cans.
Garden Furniture: Organize and clean garden furniture, and consider removing any pieces that make the space feel cramped.
Outdoor Lighting: Ensure that any outdoor lighting is working properly and creating a warm and inviting ambiance.
Plants and Flowers: Make sure plants and flowers are well-maintained and add a touch of color to the space.
Pet Accessories: Remove pet bowls, toys, and other pet accessories from the yard.

Tip: Consider adding a small fire pit or a hammock to create a relaxing and inviting ambiance.

Why Decluttering is Essential for Selling Your Home

The benefits of decluttering go beyond just making your home look good. It has a direct impact on the selling process, influencing buyer perception, offers, and closing time.

Maximizes Space: A decluttered home appears larger and more spacious, making it more appealing to buyers. This is especially important in smaller homes.
Highlights Features: By removing distractions, buyers can focus on the home’s positive features, such as the layout, natural light, and architectural details.
Creates a Clean and Inviting Atmosphere: A decluttered home feels clean, fresh, and inviting. This can lead to a more positive impression and increase the likelihood of buyers making an offer.
Enhances Curb Appeal: A decluttered exterior creates a positive first impression and encourages buyers to take a closer look inside.
Reduces Perceived Maintenance: A decluttered home suggests to buyers that the homeowners have taken good care of the property and that there is less maintenance needed.

Research shows a strong correlation between decluttering and selling success. According to the National Association of Realtors, staged homes sell for an average of 17% more than unstaged homes. They also sell faster, averaging 88% quicker.

Tips for Effective Decluttering

Decluttering can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here are some tips for effective decluttering:

Start Small: Don’t try to declutter your entire home at once. Start with one room or area and work your way through.
Get Rid of the Obvious: Begin by removing any obvious clutter, such as unnecessary furniture, stacks of papers, and unused appliances.
Use the “One Year Rule”: If you haven’t used something in the past year, consider getting rid of it.
Categorize and Sort: As you declutter, categorize items into three groups: keep, donate, and discard.
Think Vertically: Use vertical storage solutions, such as shelves and drawers, to maximize space.
Don’t Forget the Details: Pay attention to small details like removing personal items from nightstands, dressers, and bathroom countertops.
Enlist Help: If you find decluttering overwhelming, don’t hesitate to enlist help from friends, family, or a professional organizer.

Decluttering for selling is a process that requires patience and persistence. It’s about creating a space that appeals to buyers and inspires them to imagine themselves living there. By removing the clutter and creating a clean and inviting atmosphere, you’ll increase the chances of selling your home quickly and for a higher price.

Conclusion

Professional home stagers are experts at creating spaces that resonate with buyers, and a crucial part of their strategy is strategic decluttering. By understanding what items to remove and how to create a sense of spaciousness and tranquility, you can present your home in its best light and attract offers.

Remember, decluttering is an investment in your home’s marketability. It’s a simple yet effective step that can dramatically improve your selling experience and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common decluttering mistakes homeowners make?

One common mistake is holding onto sentimental items. While these items hold emotional value, they can distract buyers from seeing the potential of the home. Another mistake is not decluttering enough. Buyers are looking for spacious and uncluttered spaces, so it’s important to go beyond just tidying up.

How can I declutter my home without getting rid of everything?

Start by focusing on high-traffic areas and visible surfaces. Remove clutter from countertops, coffee tables, and nightstands. You can also use storage solutions to hide items that you don’t want to get rid of, such as baskets, bins, and under-bed storage.

Is it worth hiring a professional home stager?

Hiring a professional home stager can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re looking to sell your home quickly and for a higher price. Stagers have a keen eye for detail and can create a space that appeals to a wide range of buyers. They can also offer valuable advice on decluttering, furniture placement, and color schemes.

What are some cost-effective ways to stage my home?

There are several cost-effective ways to stage your home. You can start by decluttering and depersonalizing your space. You can also rent furniture and decor from a staging company or purchase items from thrift stores or discount retailers. Finally, consider adding fresh flowers or plants to create a more welcoming atmosphere.

Should I remove all artwork and decor?

While you should remove personal items, you can still incorporate some artwork and decor. Choose neutral and elegant pieces that complement the home’s style and don’t distract from its features. Avoid anything too bold or controversial that could turn off potential buyers.