Preparing a property for sale requires careful consideration, especially when time is limited and significant changes to the furniture are not feasible due to the owner still residing in the home. With sellers seeking a quick sale, it’s crucial to implement strategies that are easy to execute and won’t disrupt the occupants’ daily routine. 

Here are 5 effective ways to stage a property with limited time:

1. Harness the Power of Smell

A popular staging trick is to fill the home with the smell of freshly made cookies. However, in today’s fast-paced real estate market, finding time to bake cookies may be difficult, especially for busy homeowners. Fortunately, there are other ways to create the same effect without making cookies. For instance, you can heat vanilla extract in the oven or put a few drops on cotton buds to make impromptu diffusers. Both methods can instantly fill the home with the inviting smell of freshly made cookies, attracting buyers.

2. Introduce Colour

Colour plays a crucial role in staging a property as it can guide the eyes of potential buyers and highlight specific features during a home tour. Even with limitations on making substantial changes to the property, there are numerous simple ways to add colour. For instance, you can place a colourful rug or throw in a room to inject a pop of colour and create visual interest. Hanging up colourful art in each room can also enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the home and create a cohesive look. Additionally, replacing the fabric on blinds with colourful slats can add vibrant hues and transform the space.

3. Enhance Lighting

Lighting is crucial when staging and photographing a home for sale. However, not many homes have good natural lighting, especially in areas with unpredictable weather.  When staging the home for viewings, incorporating additional lighting such as lamps, fairy lights, and LED strip lights can create a brighter and more inviting atmosphere. Properly placed lights can make rooms appear larger and warmer, creating a positive impression on potential buyers.

4. Declutter and Organise

A cluttered and disorganised home can be a major turn-off for potential buyers. However, decluttering and organising a property can be done efficiently even with limited time. Encourage the homeowners to remove unnecessary items and personal belongings to create a clean and visually appealing space. This can include clearing countertops, organizing closets, and tidying up the garage. Additionally, strategically arranging furniture and decor can create a sense of flow and maximise the perceived space in the home.

5. Incorporate Outdoor Staging 

Don’t neglect the outdoor areas of the property, as they can significantly impact the overall impression of the home. Even with limited time, simple outdoor staging techniques can be implemented, such as adding potted plants or flowers to the entryway, tidying up the yard, and ensuring outdoor furniture is clean and well-arranged. These small touches can greatly enhance the curb appeal of the property and create a positive first impression on potential buyers.