Menu
Menu
Staging your property for sale can make a world of difference. A well-presented home allows buyers to picture themselves living there. This often leads to a faster sale and often a higher sales price! It is easy to make a few missteps along the way. To help you present your home in its best light, let’s look at five property styling mistakes to avoid.
One of the most common mistakes when staging your home for sale is filling your home with too many personal touches.
Solution: Buyers want to picture themselves living in your home, and that’s hard to do when family photos and personal items are everywhere. Clear out those personal touches, declutter surfaces, and create a neutral space that allows buyers to envision their own lives unfolding in each room. While you might love that bold piece of art or family gallery wall, potential buyers want to imagine their own lives in your home. So, keep the decor neutral, using a soft colour palette and contemporary furnishings.
Focusing only on the interior and forgetting about the outside.
Solution: Your home’s exterior is its first chance to impress, and you only get one shot at a first impression. The moment potential buyers pull up to your property, they’re already forming opinions, so it’s crucial to make that first moment count. Start with the basics—mow the lawn, trim any hedges, and tidy up the garden. Even a well-maintained lawn can make a significant difference in how your home is perceived. Remove any weeds, prune overgrown plants, and consider adding fresh mulch or gravel to the garden beds to give everything a neat, polished look.
Small details also make a big impact. Replacing old or faded house numbers is a simple yet effective way to add a modern touch, and it shows buyers that you’ve paid attention to upkeep. You might also want to freshen up the front door with a new coat of paint, preferably in a bold, inviting colour that compliments the overall exterior. A fresh door instantly brightens up the entryway and adds to the welcoming feel. If your door mat is looking worn out, swap it for a new one—something clean, simple, and inviting.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of greenery. A few well-placed potted plants can create a welcoming atmosphere and add a pop of colour to your exterior. These finishing touches may seem small, but they can elevate the entire look of your home and help set the stage for that “wow” moment as buyers walk up to your door.
Packing the rooms with too much furniture or decor, making it feel cluttered.
Solution: Less is definitely more when styling a home. Give each room space to breathe by removing excess furniture and decor. Highlight functionality without overwhelming buyers. Open, airy spaces create a sense of calm and help buyers visualise how they could make the room their own, without distractions.
Start with a thorough declutter—it’s not only great for showcasing your home but also therapeutic for you. A decluttered space naturally feels more spacious and inviting. Plus, it makes the moving process so much smoother. Go room by room, methodically tackling each space to ensure nothing is overlooked. As you work, create categories like donate, recycle, or throw away. You’d be surprised how much unnecessary clutter accumulates over time, from old paperwork to forgotten gadgets and unused decor.
Another common and easily avoidable mistake when staging a home is neglecting to thoroughly clean the space.
Solution: A messy or unkempt home can immediately turn off potential buyers, no matter how well-staged or beautifully decorated it is. Dusty surfaces, dirty floors, and cluttered areas create the impression that the property hasn’t been well-maintained, raising concerns about deeper, hidden issues. Buyers are more likely to focus on the mess than on the home’s positive features. To make a lasting, positive impression, ensure the entire home is spotless. This includes deep cleaning carpets, scrubbing bathrooms, wiping down windows, and ensuring every nook and cranny is shining. A clean home not only looks more attractive but also gives buyers confidence that the property has been well cared for, making them feel more comfortable and reassured about the quality of the home.
Forgetting about small repairs that could turn buyers away.
Solution: Even minor issues can raise red flags for potential buyers. A leaky tap, cracked wall, or broken tile might seem insignificant to you, but to someone viewing the property for the first time, these small defects can suggest deeper, underlying problems. That’s why it’s so important to address even the smallest of repairs before listing your home. Fix those leaky taps, patch up any cracks in the walls, and replace broken tiles—these quick fixes can make a world of difference in how your property is perceived.
Beyond repairs, consider giving your home a fresh coat of paint in neutral colours. Neutral tones not only give the space a clean, updated feel but also allow buyers to more easily envision their own style and furnishings in the space. A well-maintained home signals to buyers that the property has been cared for, and this can inspire a level of trust and confidence that’s essential when making such a significant investment. Consider hiring the services of professional trades. Novari Trades offers comprehensive services to prepare your home for sale, have a look at these recent Novari Trades’ home transformations; HOME TRANSFORMATIONS
Successful property staging isn’t just about making your home look pretty; it’s about creating a space where buyers can picture themselves. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll set the stage for a faster sale—and potentially a better price. Whether it’s choosing neutral decor or brightening up a room, your goal is to make your home feel inviting, cared for, and ready for someone new to move in.
If you’re unsure where to start, consider consulting with a professional styling company like Novari Collective. We provide expert guidance and help prepare your home for sale. Have a look at some of our recent styling projects: RECENT STYLING PROJECTS
Our property staging services can ensure your space looks its best, appealing to potential buyers while maximising your property’s value
