Although it might be a cliche, there's truth to the old saying, "A picture is worth a thousand words." This is particularly true when you're trying to sell your home. The truth is, most potential home buyers start their search online andwill decide whether they're interested in your house before they even see it in person. That's why our real estate agents always stress the importance of staging your home the right way.

Not only will great staging make your home stand out from the sea of other houses online, but it will also make the interior warm and inviting when potential buyers do decide to visit. While staging a home is fairly straight-forward, it's important to understand the basic principles, especially before you get your real estate photos done. Follow these tips, and you'll be off to a great start.

1. Clean Up the Outside
   The front of your home creates the first impression, so it's important to make it look as inviting and well-cared for as possible. Plus, more than likely this will be the first photo potential buyers see online. Prepare this space by removing your vehicles from the driveway so potential buyers can get a good view of the house and the parking area.
   
   Also, make sure you remove garbage cans from the front of the home and put away bicycles, toys, and lawn tools. Finally, make sure to mow the lawn, edge sidewalks, and walkways, and sweep up lawn clippings.  

2. Get Rid of Clutter
   Clutter can make even the best of homes look unappealing. Make sure all surfaces (like countertops) are cleared off, and things like toys, coats, and shoes are out of sight.
   
   Also, consider putting excess furniture in storage and make sure that all personal effects, like family photos and collectibles, are packed up and put away. These simple changes can make your home look both cleaner and bigger and ensures you don't have any bits of clutter in the corner of your photos.

3. Pay Attention to the Details
   When it comes to staging your home, the details matter. Make sure your curtains are opened, and blinds are set to a 45-degree angle. Check to ensure that all toilet seats are down. Straighten and fluff pillows, double-check mirrors for streaks, and smooth out wrinkles in the bedding.
   
   It only takes a second to take care of these little things, and it can mean the difference between getting a great offer and having a home that lingers on the market far too long.

4. Leave it to the Pros
   Your agent can give you staging advice or may recommend hiring a professional home stager. Once your house is set up perfectly, the photographer matters as well. There are far too many mistakes amateurs can make when attempting DIY photo shoots.
   
   There are plenty of times when it's fine to save money by doing things yourself, but this isn't one of them. Find the right professionals, and the results will be well worth the effort.

When it comes to selling your home, staging is only one piece of the equation. If you want to get a great offer on your house, you need an excellentreal estate agent. The Masiello Group can take care of all the details and help make your home sale a breeze. Contact us today to get started!