Clients that engage my services receive a home staging consultation prior to the home being listed. There are a number of professionals in the Victoria area that perform this service. Staging can help sell a home in record time and in some cases, above asking price.  
 

10 tips for preparing your home for a quick sale

1. Curb appeal

   Homebuyers decide whether or not to look inside a house by the appearance of your home's exterior. Paint or wash the outside of your home. Check your gutters and chimney and make necessary repairs. Keep your lawns trimmed and flower beds weeded. 
2. Odours
   Strive to eliminate odours prior to showing your home. Offensive pet or food smells may chase potential buyer's out of your home.
3. Paint
   A fresh coat of pain is relatively inexpensive and is worth the time and the effort. Choose neutral colours and make it consistent throughout the home.
4. Keep it clean

   Pay special attention to your bathroom and kitchen - make sure that tile grout is mildew free and baseboards scrubbed. Clean the refrigerator and stove as well as the washer and dryer (inside and out).
5. Lose the clutter

   Organize shelves, put away items and purge your home of unnecessary items. Make sure that your kitchen and bathroom counters are free of small appliances and personal effects.
6. Window coverings
   Replace dated curtains. If privacy isn't an issue, open blinds and curtains during showings to highlight a view and let as much light into the room as possible.
7. De-personalize your home

   Make your home "anonymous,” so that buyers can envision it as their potential home. Put away any family photos, sports trophies, collectibles, knick-knacks and souvenirs. This will also help to remove clutter and create more space.
8. Create the illusion of space

   To make your home seem more spacious, it is key to de-clutter and re-organize. Start by removing excess furniture to make rooms feel more open and replacing any items that are not appropriately sized for the room. Clean and organize your closets and remove excess clutter from all areas of your home. 
9. Modern choices

   Ensure that the décor of your home is modern and tasteful. Use neutral tones on your walls and floors and add colour with removable items such as throw pillows or bedding. Steer away from too many personal touches to create a minimalist and contemporary space.
10. Beautify your backyard

    Potential buyers can also be influenced by the state of your yard. Keep the lawn, hedges and flowerbeds manicured. Buy exterior storage containers to hide gardening tools, kids toys and pool supplies. Lastly, interested buyers may decide to look inside your shed, so make sure that it is organized and clean.