Comprehensive Home Staging Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure every detail is covered, allowing you to focus on selling your home quickly and at the best price!
Curb Appeal
Mailbox: Assess its condition—repair, repaint, or replace if necessary for a positive first impression.
Landscaping: Trim hedges and bushes for a clean look that highlights the home, not the overgrowth.
Clutter-Free Yard: Store away lawn furniture, toys, or other items to showcase an open, inviting space.
Gutters: Clean and repair gutters to prevent damage and maintain a neat exterior.
Porch/Deck: Clean and stage with inviting decor—buyers should picture themselves enjoying the space.
Front Door: Repaint if needed, and add a welcoming doormat to create a pleasant entrance.
Exterior Lighting: Ensure all light bulbs are working for both safety and aesthetics.
Garage: Keep it tidy and organized to showcase its potential for both storage and parking.
Siding: Power wash to remove dirt and grime for a fresh, clean appearance.
Add Color: Incorporate seasonal flowers, wreaths, or fresh paint for an added touch of appeal.
Living Room
Declutter: Clear surfaces like coffee tables and shelves to let the space breathe.
Personal Items: Remove family photos and personal objects so buyers can imagine their own style.
Furniture Arrangement: Ensure furniture is both functional and aesthetically appealing, creating a natural flow.
Unnecessary Furniture: Remove oversized or excessive pieces to make the room appear larger.
Window Treatments: Replace outdated or damaged window coverings to refresh the space.
Flooring: Clean carpets or rugs; consider replacing if they’re too worn to make a good impression.
Kitchen
Declutter: Keep countertops and tables clear to emphasize the kitchen’s work and prep space.
Clean Sink: Make sure the sink is spotless with no dishes or debris.
Small Appliances: Store any appliances that aren’t regularly used to keep the counters uncluttered.
Purge Cabinets: Clear out old items to showcase the kitchen's storage potential.
Fridge Cleanliness: Wipe down the fridge and clear any magnets or personal items off the door.
Dishwasher: Empty or run the dishwasher before showings to avoid an uncleaned space.
Flooring: Clean or replace flooring if necessary for a polished look.
Lighting: Ensure all light fixtures are working, and maximize natural light by cleaning windows.
Fragrance: Maintain a pleasant smell by baking cookies or bread before showings. Keep trash bins empty.
Bedrooms
Declutter: Tidy nightstands, dressers, and floors to keep surfaces clear.
Make the Beds: Add decorative pillows or throws to create an inviting atmosphere.
Wall Art: Update wall art with neutral or trendy pieces, avoiding overly personal items.
Curtains: Clean or replace old curtains to refresh the room’s look.
Pleasant Scents: Use subtle room sprays, diffusers, or fresh linens to keep the space smelling nice.
Closet Organization: Tidy and organize closet space to show off its storage potential.
Lighting: Add lamps or replace outdated fixtures to create a cozy ambiance.
Window Cleaning: Clean windows to allow maximum natural light to fill the room.
Bathrooms
Declutter: Clear counters of personal items like toiletries and grooming tools.
Fresh Towels: Add plush towels, possibly folded decoratively or with a ribbon for a luxurious feel.
Toilet Maintenance: Ensure toilets are clean, with seats down before showings.
Medicine Cabinet & Under-Sink: Organize these spaces by removing expired products.
Shower Curtain & Rugs: Replace worn or dated items for a refreshed look.
Wall Art: Choose tasteful, neutral art that complements the space.
Small Details: Tidy up small touches like toilet paper placement and hanging towels.
Bathroom Fragrance: Use light, fresh scents to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Home Office
Declutter: Clear all workspaces to create a professional, organized environment.
Personal Items: Remove family photos and personal memorabilia.
Cleanliness: Wipe down all surfaces, dust shelves, and vacuum floors.
Furniture Arrangement: Set up the desk and furniture for functionality and flow.
Desk Organization: Keep the desk clear of clutter and tidy drawers or storage.
Add Supplies: Place fresh stationery or pens to emphasize functionality.
Lighting: Ensure ample lighting, including task lights if necessary.
Natural Light: Open curtains to let in as much light as possible.
Playroom
Declutter: Get rid of toys no longer in use and organize remaining ones neatly.
Cleanliness: Wipe down surfaces and vacuum floors for a polished look.
Versatility: Stage the room to appeal to other potential uses, such as a game room or home office.
Personal Touches: Remove personal items, and consider adding fun decor like colorful cushions.
Storage Space: Ensure there’s enough storage for toys or other items to keep the space neat.
Basements, Attics, & Utilitarian Spaces
Declutter: Keep these areas clean and organized; discard things you no longer need.
Staging: If used as living space, ensure it’s clean, functional, and well-maintained.
Storage: If your storage areas are cramped, consider renting a unit to free up space.
Lighting: Add extra lighting where needed to brighten up dark areas.
Safety: Ensure the space is free from hazards like exposed wires or sharp objects.
Patio, Porch, & Deck
Cleanliness: Sweep away debris and clean surfaces to keep the space inviting.
Furniture Condition: Ensure outdoor furniture is in good repair and ready for use.
Color: Add plants or seasonal flowers to brighten up the space.
Deck Care: Re-stain or seal decks as necessary to maintain their look.
Lighting: Add lighting like solar or string lights to make the space welcoming after dark.
Pet Owners
Odor Control: Eliminate any pet odors with air fresheners or cleaning products.
Pet Hair: Use a lint roller to remove any pet hair from surfaces.
Pet Presence: Consider having pets stay with friends or family during showings.
Damage Repair: Fix any pet-related damage, like scratched floors or chewed furniture.
Disclosure: Inform potential buyers about the presence of pets, as some people may have allergies.
General Tips
Regular Cleaning: Keep the home spotless with regular dusting, vacuuming, and mopping.
Fireplace: Clean the fireplace and remove ash before showings.
Storage: Rent a storage unit for excess items that clutter the home.
Minor Repairs: Fix small issues like leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or chipped paint.
Hiring a Professional Home Stager
If you prefer expert help, hiring a home staging company can be a worthwhile investment. While staging costs vary, homes that are professionally staged tend to sell for higher prices. A trained stager can help you highlight your home's best features and appeal to a broader range of buyers.
By following this checklist, you’ll be well on your way to showcasing your home at its best and making a lasting impression on potential buyers.
