You’ve moved into a new home, and you love it! The only problem is, you still have your old home, and you need to sell it and sell it fast. You may have realized it can feel a little bit of a game of cat and mouse between you and potential buyers. Convincing them that your home is “the one” can take a little bit of creativity. One way to help speed things up? Staging. This helps prep your property for sale by making it look its best by using furniture to highlight its best features and techniques, creating an atmosphere future homeowners can imagine themselves in. It’s true — a staged home can spend 73 percent less time on the market compared to those without staging, and sell for up to 25 percent more. If you’re up for the challenge, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Declutter as much as possible.

You might think a collection of ceramic frogs is fun, but potential buyers? Not so much. Aim to create a space that’s airy and open, allowing people to imagine their own lives unfolding within these walls.

It’s easy to start with a blank canvas, but if you still have items in the space, you can work with it. Remove any bulky furniture, excess decor, and those miscellaneous stacks of magazines. Consider a minimalist approach, which can make spaces appear larger and more inviting. Box up those knick-knacks and personal items and store them out of sight. Consider renting a storage unit for larger items, or transitioning them to your new home.

Deep clean everything.

Scrub those baseboards, wash the windows until they sparkle, and make sure every corner is spotless. Buyers have an eagle eye for dirt, and a clean home suggests it’s been well cared for. But don’t just stop at the visible areas. Clean under furniture, behind appliances, and in all those nooks and crannies that are usually forgotten. Pay extra attention to bathrooms and kitchens; these areas can be deal-breakers if they’re not spotless.

Neutralize your space.

While your bright red accent wall might scream “fun,” it might also scream “repaint!” to a potential buyer. Neutral tones like whites, grays, and beiges create a blank canvas that allows buyers to see their own style in the space. Plus, these colors make rooms look bigger and brighter.

Take a good look at your walls. If the colors are too bold or too personal, it might be time for a change. A fresh coat of neutral paint can do wonders for refreshing a space. But don’t just stop at the walls—consider updating any outdated or overly personalized decor too.

Remember furniture arrangement matters.

Furniture placement is everything. You want to create flow and make sure there’s plenty of space to move around. Arrange furniture to highlight the room’s best features—like that beautiful bay window or the cozy fireplace. Think about the layout of each room. Is the furniture arranged in a way that encourages conversation and movement? Or does it feel cramped and awkward? Sometimes, simply rearranging the existing furniture can make a big difference.

Add light wherever you can.

Lighting can make or break a room. Make the most of natural light by opening curtains and blinds. For areas lacking natural light, add stylish lamps or update existing light fixtures. Aim for a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a brighter atmosphere.

Take a tour of your home and note the dark spots. Adding a few well-placed lamps can brighten these areas up instantly. Also, consider updating old, outdated fixtures with modern, stylish ones. It’s a relatively small investment that can have a big impact.

Also, soft, warm bulbs tend to be more flattering and create a cozy vibe. Avoid harsh, bright white bulbs that can make spaces feel clinical. And don’t forget dimmers—being able to adjust the lighting can make your home feel even more inviting.

Accessorize thoughtfully.

Add throw pillows, art, and plants to give spaces a lived-in yet chic look. But remember, less is more. You want to enhance the space, not overwhelm it. When choosing accessories, think about color, texture, and scale. A few well-chosen items can create a cohesive look that feels intentional and stylish.

Fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit on the kitchen counter can also add some life and color without feeling over the top. Also, consider adding mirrors—they can make a space feel larger and brighter.

Create inviting spaces.

Set the scene for potential buyers. If you have a backyard, stage a small seating area with a table and chairs, suggesting a place to enjoy morning coffee. In the living room, arrange a cozy reading nook. These touches help buyers see the potential for their lifestyle in your home.

Think about the different ways people might use each space. Can you create a little office nook in the guest room? Or a relaxing spa-like atmosphere in the bathroom? These small changes can help buyers see the full potential of your home. And finally, set the dining table as if you’re expecting guests! A beautiful table setting can make the dining area feel elevated and functional.