5 Overlooked Home Staging Details that Matter to Buyers
When you’re getting ready to sell, the big projects are usually at the top of your mind: painting, decluttering, or maybe rearranging the living room. These are crucial, of course.
But what about the small things? The subtle details that buyers might not consciously register, but which absolutely influence their gut feeling about your home?
These little overlooked areas can make the difference between a house that feels "nice" and a house that feels like "home." Here are five hidden staging opportunities that can dramatically impact a buyer's perception of your property:
1. The Fireplace: More Than Just a Chimney
A fireplace is often the star of the living room, yet it’s frequently ignored during the staging process. Don't let it become a dust collector or a catch-all for clutter. A clean, thoughtfully styled fireplace is incredibly inviting.
Nancy’s Advice:
Wipe away any soot and debris.
Remove personal photos or holiday decor.
Opt for simple, tasteful decor on the mantel—think a beautiful mirror, fresh greenery, or stylish candles.
If the fireplace isn't in use, place a decorative basket filled with birch logs inside for that rustic, cozy feel.
2. Artwork Placement: Stop Hanging It Too High!
We often see artwork hung too high, which makes the room feel off-balance. Art should always be hung at eye level—generally about 57 to 60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece.
A Staging Pro’s Trick: Instead of using a cluster of small frames (which can look cluttered), choose one large, calming piece above a couch or bed. This anchors the room and draws the eye beautifully.
3. The Clutter Creep on Countertops
We all have that "landing zone" in the kitchen or on the hall table. Even if the items are decorative, too much of anything gets in the way of a buyer envisioning their own life in your space.
Keep it Spartan: Kitchen and bathroom countertops should be mostly clear. A single plant, a soap dispenser, or perhaps one well-placed decorative item is enough. Remember, less is truly more when it comes to selling.
4. Trim and Baseboards: The Silent First Impression
No, buyers aren't typically crawling on the floor checking your baseboards, but scuffed or dusty trim is immediately noticeable. Clean, crisp trim signals to buyers that the home has been meticulously cared for.
The Psychological Impact: Subconsciously, dirty trim can make a buyer feel like the entire house is less clean or less well-maintained, even if everything else is spotless. A quick wipe down or a fresh coat of paint here makes a huge difference.
5. Faceplates and Light Switches
This might sound crazy, but trust me, buyers notice! Yellowed, cracked, or mismatched light switch covers jump out in a newly staged room. They look tired and dated. Replacing them is one of the most cost-effective and fastest updates you can make, instantly elevating the room’s look.
Attention to detail is everything when selling your home. These small tweaks shift a buyer's impression from "nice house" to "this feels like home."
Ready for expert guidance on how to make your home shine? Let me help you prepare your home for sale with either an in-person or virtual consultation. Schedule now and let's get your home market-ready!
