If you’re trying to sell your home and make a strong first impression on potential buyers, staging can be your secret weapon. An empty space can leave buyers uninspired, but staging—strategically placing furniture and decor—helps them envision themselves living there. So, how do you approach staging?

Here’s what to consider:

1. Declutter Like a Minimalist on a Mission

The first secret to successful staging? Less is more. A room shouldn’t feel crowded or overwhelming. Start by decluttering—remove personal items, collections, and excess belongings.

Consider Storage Units for Excess Items

If your garage looks like a storage unit, it might be time to actually get a storage unit. Clean, open spaces make homes feel bigger and more inviting. Plus, everyone loves a good before-and-after transformation.

2. Neutralize Your Palette

Neutral doesn’t have to mean boring. Aim for soft whites, light grays, and the occasional beige. Think of it as the tofu of interior design—it takes on the flavor of whatever you pair with it.

3. Fix the Little Things

That squeaky door handle, leaky faucet, or the light switch that only works if you wiggle it—these are minor annoyances we live with but shouldn’t when staging. Fixing these small issues can make a home seem better maintained, whispering ‘quality’ to potential buyers.

4. Light It Up

Good lighting can make a space feel warm and welcoming. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider adding lamps to dark corners. It’s all about setting the right mood. Remember, you’re not just selling a space but the dream of a lifestyle.

5. Enhance Your Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Ensure the exterior of your home is as tidy and inviting as the interior. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, a new mailbox, or even just a clean driveway can make a world of difference.

6. Stage for the Life They Want

Imagine the lifestyle the house suggests—whether it’s cozy family breakfasts in a sunny kitchen or elegant evenings in a formal dining room. Staging is about creating scenes that spark potential buyers’ imaginations.

Create Cozy Nooks

Transform an awkward space into a reading nook with a comfy chair and a stylish lamp. Showcase the potential of every nook and cranny. Each staged area should tell a story. If you’re featuring a bathtub, put out fluffy towels and boutique bath salts. It’s all in the details.

Use Furniture to Define Spaces

Proper furniture placement can help define the use of space without words. A rug under the dining table or a desk by the window in a small alcove subtly suggests how to use the area.

7. Avoid Over-Staging

While staging helps buyers visualize living in your home, over-staging can make it feel artificial. There’s a fine line between a home that looks lived-in and one that resembles a furniture catalog.

8. Keep It Functional

A staged home should still feel like a home. Ensure doors can open freely, pathways are clear, and every room is accessible. You don’t want your staging to become an obstacle course.

9. Add Some Life

Potted plants or a bowl of fresh fruit can inject warmth into any space. These elements add a touch of life and make spaces feel inviting rather than sterile.

10. Find a Professional Stager

If you’re serious about selling and unsure where to start, consider hiring a professional stager. They bring expertise and an unbiased eye and can often work wonders with what you already have.