How to stage your home to ensure a successful sale

By Lizzie Burt, Associate Director at Chinneck Shaw Estate Agents

‘For Sale’ signs are springing up left, right and centre. If you’ve not noticed the increase in signage around your neighbourhood just yet, you soon will. Why? Because the property market is heating up. So, if selling your home has been on your mind, now might just be the perfect time to take the plunge.

So, how do you ensure a quick, successful sale – and maximise your return?The answer is simple, even if it’s a bit old school: staging. The properties that sell fastest and often for the best prices are the ones that were thoughtfully staged beforehand.

Make your home stand out

If a successful sale was as easy as listing your home and watching the offers pour in, the housing market would be in a perpetual boom. The reality is, even in a hot market, your home needs to stand out from the crowd.

What’s the grand plan?

The number one rule? Less is more. In other words: declutter. You want potential buyers to see – and imagine – the full potential of the space. A cluttered house can feel smaller, cramped, and distracting. Likewise, too many personal items can prevent viewers from imagining the home as their own.

People aren’t just buying bricks and mortar – they’re buying a future. But you need to give them the blank canvas they’re looking for.

Clean, clean, clean

Next on the list: deep clean. Nobody wants to walk into a home that smells musty, looks tired, or has visible grime. It’s an instant turn-off – much like arriving at a hotel room that hasn’t been cleaned. And if people wouldn’t accept that for a short stay, why would they settle for it when considering spending hundreds of thousands on a home?

Buyers want sanctuary. Neutral walls, minimalist décor, and a clean, fresh environment go a long way in creating that.

Create that wow factor

Picture this: A buyer is house-hunting in the ever-popular Southsea, dreaming of the perfect home near the sea. They visit two homes in one afternoon. The first is spotless – bright white walls, not a fingerprint or speck of dust in sight. The shelves are tidy, the furniture is simple and tasteful. The windows are open, letting in fresh spring air. A vase of flowers sits on the coffee table, cushions are plumped, the floor is clear of toys or clutter.

They walk into the kitchen and are greeted by the inviting aroma of fresh coffee. The countertops are gleaming, surfaces minimalist, the floors spotless. The buyer can immediately picture their own belongings in the space and imagine themselves coming home to it after a long day. That emotional connection is powerful.

They might also notice that a few personal photos have been tucked away, and there’s no trace of pets because the family dog is off at a friend’s for the day. Nothing is left to chance. This home has been staged to perfection, and it shows. It’s likely to fetch asking price or more, especially in a competitive market.

Now, imagine the second property. As the buyer approaches, there’s litter on the garden path. They’re met at the door by a large dog bounding towards them. Inside, they have to step over shoes, toys, and are faced with a wall covered in personal photos. The space smells of last night’s dinner, and every surface is cluttered with gadgets and gear.

Suddenly, that buyer’s dream starts to fade. They can’t see themselves living here. All they see is someone else’s life, and a lot of work ahead to make it their own.

The importance of staging your home should never be underestimated. It really is the key to success.

Tips to stage your home to sell:

• Declutter every room. Less is more.
• Depersonalise the space. Remove personal photos and memorabilia.
• Deep clean like a pro. It matters.
• Hide evidence of pets. Even the well-loved dog needs a holiday during viewings.
• Maximise lighting. Turn harsh lighting off. Natural light is your best friend.
• Make the living room inviting. Cushions, throws, and fresh flowers go a long way.
• Showcase the kitchen. Clear countertops, open windows and let those fresh smells in.
• Stick to neutral colours. Let buyers imagine their own colour design.
• Freshen up outside. First impressions count. Always keep the front path clean and inviting.
• Use the power of scent. Fresh air, coffee, or flowers are excellent choices to lift the aroma but it should be subtle and never overpowering.

Thoughtful staging helps your property speak for itself and a well-presented home gives a buyer the chance to picture themselves there. It doesn’t have to cost huge amounts to achieve – with the right touches, your home will be ready to impress.

  Back