Discover key tips for staging a kitchen to impress potential buyers. Here, you’ll learn how to declutter, deep clean, update hardware, and create an inviting atmosphere.
First things first
Declutter and Depersonalize: Start by removing personal items, excessive small appliances, and clutter from countertops. After all, a clean, clutter-free space appears larger and more inviting, something all buyers want.
Deep Clean: Thoroughly clean every aspect of the kitchen, including appliances, countertops, cabinets, floors, and windows. In reality, a spotless kitchen always makes a strong positive impression.
Repair and Refresh: Fix any minor repairs, such as leaky faucets, chipped paint, or broken tiles. In particular look into painting outdated or worn cabinets or scuffed walls. Sometimes all a wall needs is a good clean with dish soap and water.
Update Hardware: Replacing old cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, and faucets with modern hardware can give the kitchen a fresh, updated look at a relatively low cost. In short, it’s a quick win and less expensive than a kitchen remodel!
Neutral Color Palette: Use neutral colors for walls, cabinets, and countertops to create a calm and appealing atmosphere. Neutral tones are more universally appealing to potential buyers.
Ok, onto the decluttering! Do I have to?
Declutter your cabinets – yes, this really is the time to de-clutter. Do you have items that you really don’t want to pack and move? Heavy, unused items like bread makers that you bought during a time when you thought you’d love to make your own bread? The waffle maker that you’ve used once (well, ok, never – but it’s so cute and I thought I would). The slow cooker that you use once a year. The serving dish that Great Aunt Mary gave you as a present but frankly, its not your style (ok, it’s hideous and will never grace your table). Take a picture of you holding it to remember her by and walk, no run, with it to the nearest charity shop. Someone else is looking for this item and will love and treasure it. That thought alone might make it easier to let it go.
Your junk is someone else’s treasure. Give it away!
Having trouble letting go? Most people do. I’ve written a post here that goes into the Emotion behind why we hang on to things. Once I figured out my reasons I stopped collecting and gave away items that don’t fit into my collections. It’s made them more impactful and now I only keep what I want, not what my young self wanted and couldn’t have.
Let’s get Staging!
Now is the time to make the kitchen shine. A bit of staging will help showcase your kitchen, enticing buyers to linger and envision themselves cooking and entertaining.
Highlight Storage Solutions: Showcase the kitchen’s storage capabilities by organizing cabinets and pantry areas. Consider adding pull-out shelves or drawer organizers to highlight functional storage options. Will prospective buyers look in your cabinets? Yes, they will! Partly because we humans are a nosy bunch and partly because they want to see how the storage is laid out. Will their stuff fit? If yours doesn’t theirs likely won’t either so it’s vital to highlight the space, not crammed space, empty space.
Showcase Modern Appliances: If the appliances are outdated, consider investing in newer, energy-efficient models. Ensure all appliances are spotless and in good working condition. A new dishwasher will cost $500-$1000 but could potentially bring you more. Talk with your Realtor or Stager before making big investments though.
Enhance Lighting: Ensure the kitchen is well-lit by utilizing natural light and adding task lighting under cabinets or above work areas. Consider updating outdated light fixtures for a modern look. If you have a California ceiling consider removing it. You can get an electrician to remove the outdated florescent bulbs and replace it with a sleeker light fixture. You might need to clean and paint the inside of the opening as it’s been closed for a very long time. 1980 is calling for it’s light fixtures. It wants them back.
Set the Scene
Set the Scene: Create a welcoming atmosphere by setting the kitchen table or breakfast bar with attractive place settings. This can help buyers imagine themselves using the space.
Stage with Fresh Elements: Incorporate fresh flowers, bowls of fruit, or potted herbs to add a touch of vibrancy and life to the kitchen. It’s these elements that can make the space feel more welcoming.
Small kitchens need less staging so that you can see the amount of countertop space. Use the less is more principle here.
Should you stage your closets and cabinets? Yes! Read more here.
Not sure what You need to do Next?
Professional Staging Services: Lastly, if you’re unsure about how to stage your kitchen effectively, consider hiring a professional stager like Create Design Home Staging and Decorating. We have the expertise to transform the space and highlight its best features. Click the Work with Me button below to reach out. We love to help!
Conclusion
Staging a kitchen in Mississauga or Oakville is a strategic investment that can significantly impact the sale of your home. Basically, by creating a clean, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space, you’ll attract more potential buyers and increase the likelihood of a successful sale. Remember, the goal of staging is to help buyers envision themselves living in the space, making it essential to highlight the kitchen’s best features and create an emotional connection. Follow the tips outlined above and you’ll be well on your way to staging a kitchen that impresses and sells.
Thinking of selling your Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, Milton, or Etobicoke home or condo? Give me a call or check out my real estate website at www.clarissa.ca.
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