When it comes to selling a home, first impressions matter. One

of the most effective ways to make a lasting impression on potential buyers is

through proper home staging. Staging involves strategically arranging and

decorating your home to showcase its best features and create a welcoming

atmosphere. In this week's radio show segment and blog, I will explore the do's and don'ts of preparing your home for the market, the importance of remodeling and repairs, the staging process and its associated costs, as well as valuable tips for preparing

marketing photos for MLS.

My guest speaker will be Deanna Poppenberger of Integrity Prescott Real Estate Team. Deanna has been a successful Realtor for over 20 years in the Prescott area and will share her expertise on the following topics that are crucial in preparing and marketing the sale of your home. Some of those topics we'll be discussing are:

• How to Maximize the Property's Appeal: Do's & Don't
• When is Remodeling or Repairs Needed?
• The Staging Process: Costs & Budgeting
• Utilizing Outside Resources
• Marketing Photos for MLS: Do's & Dont's

INTRODUCTION:

Deanna is not only a realtor but also an associate broker and a top producer at Integrity Prescott since the year 2000. She has sold over $100 million dollars in real estate She has seen the development and growth of the Quad Cities. Her knowledge, experience and credibility offer tremendous value in the industry due to her ability to maintain long lasting relationships with both buyers and sellers and other area professionals. I would describe Deanna as quick witted, sharp and very business oriented. Deanna is also very active in the community as a local 4-H leader and mentor and has deep roots for the equestrian lifestyle. Her motto "experience matters"!

1. Preparing Your Home for the Market: Do's & Don'ts

Do's:

• Declutter and depersonalize: Remove personal items, family photos, and excessive clutter to allow potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.
• Clean and refresh: Deep clean your home, including carpets, windows, and fixtures to make it look well-maintained and inviting.
• Neutralize the decor: Use a neutral color palette for walls and furnishings, as it appeals to a wider range of buyers and creates a blank canvas for their imagination.
• Enhance curb appeal: Make a strong first impression by maintaining a tidy exterior, well-kept landscaping, and a fresh coat of paint if needed.

Don'ts:

• Overwhelm with furniture: Avoid overcrowding rooms with too much furniture. Opt for a simple layout that highlights the space and flow of each room.
• Neglect the small details: Pay attention to minor repairs like leaky faucets, loose doorknobs, and squeaky hinges. These small fixes can make a big difference in the perception of your home's overall condition.

2. When Is Remodeling or Repairs Needed?

Before diving into significant remodeling, it's essential to assess the return on investment (ROI). Generally, minor updates and repairs tend to have a better ROI than major overhauls. If your home has outdated features, consider small renovations like repainting, upgrading fixtures, or replacing worn carpets. Structural issues or major renovations may be necessary only when it's financially justifiable, and you can expect a substantial increase in your home's value.

3. The Staging Process: Costs and Budgeting

The cost of staging a home can vary widely depending on the size of the property, the scope of the project, and whether you hire professionals or do it yourself. Professional stagers can charge a fee for their services, which might range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Additionally, there are costs associated with renting furniture and decorative items to enhance the appeal of your home.

4. Utilizing Outside Resources

Enlisting the help of professionals can be beneficial in the staging process. Some valuable resources to consider include:

• Designer or Decorator: A designer can help you choose the right color schemes, furniture, and decor that align with current trends and appeal to your target market.
• Stager: Professional home stagers have experience in showcasing a property's best features and can create an emotional connection with potential buyers.
• Landscaper: A landscaper can ensure your outdoor space looks well-maintained and attractive, further enhancing the curb appeal of your home.
• Handyman: For minor repairs and touch-ups, a handyman can be a valuable asset, saving you time and ensuring everything is in top condition.

5. Preparing for Marketing Photos for MLS: Do's & Don'ts

Let's explain further what MLS is for the real estate industry.

Do's:

• Use natural light: Schedule your photo shoot during the day to take advantage of natural light, which makes rooms appear brighter and more inviting. Highlight the best features: Focus on capturing the most appealing aspects of your home, such as a beautiful fireplace or a spacious kitchen.
• Stage strategically: Arrange furniture and decor to create a sense of flow and highlight the functionality of each room.

Don'ts:

• Avoid photographing cluttered or messy areas.
• Don't rely solely on smartphone pictures. Invest in professional photography to ensure high-quality images.

In conclusion, staging your home to sell is a powerful tool that can significantly impact the selling process. By following the do's and don'ts, investing in small updates, and

considering professional assistance, you can showcase your home's potential and

attract more buyers, increasing your chances of a successful sale at the price

you desire. Remember, a well-staged home not only stands out in the market but

also creates an emotional connection with potential buyers, making them more

likely to envision it as their future dream home.

To learn more or if you would like to contact Deanna of Integrity Prescott, please click email or call 928-899-8350. You can also visit their website at www.PrescottPropertySearch.com

Looking for ideas or need some help with Staging Your Home to Sell?

Please contact us directly at the phone number listed below or you can email us. We always love to hear from our listeners and would love to have your feedback or questions on our radio show.

If you are a designer, industry professional, business owner or contractor that is in the design & building industry, I would love to have you as a guest speaker on my show. Please email me your full contact details.

Be sure to follow us on social media: Instagram | Facebook @DICDesignGroup

WEBLINKS FOR IDEAS:

16 front door ideas: designs for style, function and added curb appeal (msn.com)

23 Bedroom Decor Ideas for a Perfectly Pretty Space (msn.com