“I’ve read numerous articles, including yours, that suggest when preparing a home for sale, it’s best to have minimal personal items on display. I’m confused. Shouldn’t I be wanting to make my home look warm, inviting and full of family joy?”
You raise an important question and your comment “full of family joy” is at the heart of sales presentation. When buyers look for a home, they’re looking for one they can envisage themselves in; their home: their family; the place to create their memories. They need to see the space in which to do that – and that means less of your life. That doesn’t mean delivering a clinical environment, rather de-clutter, removing unnecessary items and if you have quirky taste in homewares or art/artefacts, best to remove those as they may not match the taste of the wider market. That goes for family photos too as it’s difficult for buyers to imagine their family there when all they can see is your family. Keep your pantry and other cabinetry neat and minimally stocked. Buyers open cupboards and the feeling of space is very appealing. If you have a dog/cat, it’s best to remove their beds, bowls, toys and definitely kitty trays as they can be very distracting to buyers. And don’t forget your backyard! Everything I’ve mentioned above is relevant there too.
Remember, first impressions count. Make the right impression.
