How Clean is Too Clean?

The Author of this post is Velma Baird

Before moving to Virginia, we logged on to satellitetvnorthernvirginiava.com to see what kinds of channels we would get through our new satellite TV. One of the channels I was happy to see appear was HGTV. That channel, along with the DIY Network, is an invaluable resource to those looking to buy or sell a home. As we were preparing to put our home on the market, I found myself watching many of the shows about the best way to show or stage your home for potential buyers.

Time and time again, the rule that most people choose to ignore is the rule to “de-clutter!!” The premise behind this rule is that your home needs to be rid of anything that is just taking up space. Homes need to appear bigger and brighter than they actually may be per the square footage. Personal items that are left out should be kept to a minimum to attract all buyers and allow them to feel as if it is really “their” home, not yours with your family pictures, report cards, and lists on every available space. Spaces need to be defined. There is no selling point to a room that functions as both an office and a playroom. These spaces need to be staged for a limited purpose. Closets need to be steam-lined and cabinets need to be organized. If your stuff is busting out of every nook and cranny, how in the world can a buyer be convinced that this home has space enough for someone new?

The motto for anyone trying to prepare their home for sale has to be “less is more.” You are going to be packing your stuff up once the house is sold, so why not get a jump on packing things up that just make your house feel smaller than it actually is? In the end, you will have less to pack once the sale is complete, and you will attract more buyers to your home instantly.