Many of us decorate our homes with objects that provide us with comfort. They mean something to us and remind us of places we’ve been, they remind us of our experiences, gifts from family & friends or art lovingly crafted by our kids or grandkids. Across from the fireplace mantel lined with family photos you might find an old and tattered comfy chair, squished in beside the couch, it is our favorite chair to snuggle into with a good book. All of these cherished things make our house a home – to us.

Now that you’ve decided to sell, someone told you to pack that stuff away.

But, is that really necessary when you think it works well, looks so good and makes you so happy?

The answer is simple, people have a hard time envisioning your home as their home when many of our personal things are on display or there are just too many things. Decluttering your home is a well-known catch phrase but it rings true almost every time. The key is to declutter your home to make it appealing to as many potential buyers as possible. The aim is to create an uncluttered, bright and a reasonably blank canvas (although not sterile) to help buyers visualize their furniture and things in the rooms, and their photos on the walls. In other words, the goal is to depersonalize the space but still try to evoke emotion to a prospective buyer and to foster the feeling that this home, your home, will suit them.  

Another thing to consider after decluttering is packing some of your belongings since you now have the room to sort things out. This will actually make the transition to your new home much easier, you won’t be as rushed, and you will have time to reminisce as you wrap things carefully for the move. You want to create as much space as possible.

Once your home is decluttered and you have packed a few things, it is time to do a deep clean and make any needed repairs. You want people to notice the nice tile in the bathroom, not the grout that needs cleaning or the loose cabinet doors.

Your goal as a seller is to make your home stand out from the rest of the comparable homes on the market. You want everyone who walks through your door to “notice” your home for what it is, and remember only good things.

You may be amazed how much more open and inviting your home feels after going through the process of getting it ready.

Declutter, Pack and Repair. Now you’re ready!