Decluttering Your Home Before Selling-What Your Agent Should Have Told You!

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Does It Really Matter Who I Hire As My Realtor®?

Not all Realtors® are created equal, nor do most of them understand what it takes to MAXIMIZE VISUAL APPEAL!  A great Realtor® understands how to highlight key features, reduce perceived maintenance, maximize the visual appeal a property has to offer, and therefore, create more positive first impressions of a home!  The top tip for sellers to keep their home clutter-free is to prioritize decluttering and depersonalizing. Here’s why clutter detracts from the appeal of a home and some guidance on acceptable forms of decoration:

1. Clutter Detracts From Space and Makes People Feel Agitated!:

  • Lack of Space: Clutter takes up valuable space, making rooms appear smaller and cramped. Buyers often seek spacious homes, so clutter can give the impression that there isn’t enough room for their belongings.
  • Visual Distraction: Clutter distracts potential buyers from focusing on the positive aspects of a home, like its architectural features or the quality of finishes.
  • Negative Emotions: Clutter can evoke negative emotions, even subconsciously. It may make buyers feel overwhelmed, agitated, or uncomfortable, which can deter them from envisioning themselves living in the space.

2. Acceptable Forms of Decoration and Why?

  • Minimalism: Minimalistic decor is highly recommended. It emphasizes clean lines, simplicity, and a lack of clutter. This allows potential buyers to see the space’s potential and imagine their own belongings in the home.
  • Neutral Color Palettes: Neutral colors like whites, grays, and soft beiges create a blank canvas that appeals to a wider range of buyers. Bold or personalized colors can be off-putting to some buyers.
  • Lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial. Well-lit spaces feel more inviting and spacious. Ensure that all rooms have sufficient lighting, including natural light when possible.
  • Staging: Professional home staging can be highly effective. It involves strategically arranging furniture and decor to highlight a home’s best features and create a welcoming atmosphere. Staging can also help buyers see the potential functionality of each room.

Examples of Unacceptable Clutter:

  • Excessive personal items such as family photos and memorabilia.
  • Countertops overflowing with kitchen appliances or toiletries in the bathroom.
  • A crowded living room with too much furniture.
  • Excessive wall hangings and decorations that overwhelm the senses.
  • Overflowing closets and storage areas, which suggest a lack of space.

In summary, decluttering and using minimalistic, neutral decor are key to creating a welcoming and appealing environment for potential buyers! A clutter-free home allows them to envision their own life in the space and reduces distractions that may lead to negative emotions. Professional staging can also be a valuable investment in showcasing the property’s potential.

If you’re ready to sell your home and want to find the perfect balance between personalization and decluttering, I’m here to help! As a seasoned Realtor with a track record of success in selling homes of all price points, I have the expertise to guide you through the process. Let’s transform your property into an irresistible, clutter-free haven that buyers will love!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase your home in its best light and maximize its selling potential. Contact me now to get started!  Reach out to me, Maree Seiter, today for a personalized consultation and start your journey towards a successful home sale!  I can’t wait to meet you!

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Maree Seiter

Hey Valley of the Sun, I’m Maree Seiter! As a native of Mesa, AZ, I’ve had the incredible fortune to grow up in this amazing community, and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else! Come with me as I explore all the best events, shopping, restaurants, outdoor fun and REAL ESTATE in Maricopa County! I LOVE Real Estate…..and so does my General Contractor husband Wes! We’ve been building or buying Real Estate for over 20 years and LOVE this industry! I look forward to connecting with you! See you around town!

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