How to Decorate to Sell a Home Fast

Lighting will light up your buyers.

Decorating a home to sell is called staging, because you are setting the stage to attract buyers. Proper decorating will give the buyers a positive first impression, helping your home sell fast. Conversely, a cluttered, messy home may prevent potential buyers from seeing the true beauty and positive characteristics of your home. While you may not like or agree with the decorating techniques used to stage homes, they are sometimes worth the expense and effort.

Things You'll Need

• Storage containers
• Paint
• Lamps
• Decorative accessories

Instructions

1. Get rid of clutter. Clutter makes a room feel small and overcrowded. Place only one or two items on a table top. Put toys away in storage or in your garage. Baskets and ottomans with lids are also helpful in reducing clutter. Pack up and put away seasonal clothing to make closets appear roomier.

2. Remove personal photos. If you have a wall completely covered with photos, remove most of them. This includes family photos, as they may make a buyer feel as if they are intruding in your home. Replace them with one or two pieces of art instead. This step reduces clutter and helps a potential buyer imagine that they can live there.

3. Move furniture away from walls. This creates the illusion of more space and allows potential buyers to walk freely through the rooms.

4. Paint the walls a neutral color and use the same color for rooms that flow into each other. Although you may love your lemon-yellow walls, neutral colors appeal to a wide range of people.

5. Add lighting, which makes a room seem warm and welcoming. Bring in some inexpensive table lamps and replace dim light bulbs with higher watt bulbs. Open window curtains and let natural light in.

6. Add character to each room. Bring in some greenery as plants make a room feel fresh and cozy. Group a plant with some old books and an interesting art piece. Odd numbers are more visually appealing, according to Realtor magazine. Candles can warm up a room, as can new throw pillows and a slipcover for a faded couch.

Tips & Warnings

• While house cleaning isn't decorating, there is no better way to quickly sell your home than to clean it thoroughly.

References

• Sheffield School of Interior Design: Decorating to Sell Your House; Sarah Van Arsdale
• Realtor Magazine: Small Things Can Make a Big Difference; Feb. 1, 2008