Home Staging Checklist

Outside areas and curb appeal

• Tidy, trim, and mow all lawn areas and beds.
• Patch bare spots in the lawn and make sure the grass gets watered so it’s nice and green.
• Remove branches that might be blocking windows, view sightlines, or giving the yard an overgrown look.
• Add some pretty potted flowers near the front door.
• Make sure the porch, deck, and walkways are washed and free of leaves.
• Put away yard tools, empty pots, toys, trash cans, and lawnmowers.
• Make sure the pets are picked up after. Hire a pooper-scooper service if necessary.
• If the front door is painted and could use a new coat, consider using red if it works with existing house colors. Red front doors look great and convey an energetic feel upon entering.
• Make sure the exterior, porch, and deck areas are spic and span and free of cobwebs and dust.
• Make sure outdoor light fixtures are in good working order.
• Consider an updated mailbox and house numbers.
• Add fresh new doormats outside front and back doors.
• If the home has a large porch, make sure there’s a seating area or porch swing.
• Make sure pool and hot tub areas are clean and free of leaves.

Throughout the house

• Put away clutter.
• Remove excess furniture.
• Clean thoroughly.
• Paint, if needed.
• Replace window coverings, if needed.
• Put away seasonal items that aren’t needed, along with valuables, wardrobe items that aren’t needed, and knick knacks or excess artwork/décor.
• Make simple updates like new switch plates or cabinet pulls.
• Remove plants that aren’t thriving, add new plants if desired.
• Use psychological staging to edit or add.
• Make décor updates like throw rugs and pillows.
• Add vignettes.

Entry and living areas

• Remove any clutter that may accumulate near entryways such as shoes, coats, leashes, and mail.
• Edit and arrange decorative items on mantle and tables.
• Make sure artwork is appropriate and that the space has been properly depersonalized.
• Arrange throw pillows and style other accessories as needed.
• Add flowers/plants.

Kitchen

• Make sure countertops are clear of clutter. Leave only the most essential items in order to accentuate counter space.
• Remove refrigerator items like magnets, photos, lists, etc.
• Place a pretty bowl of fruit on the counter.
• Update dish towel and throw rug if necessary.
• Organize cabinets and other storage areas.
• Make sure there are no trash odors.

Dining room

• Make sure the dining room is functioning as a dining room and not a multi-purpose room.
• Set the table as if a dinner part is happening.
• Check to make sure artwork is appropriate and the room is depersonalized.

Bathrooms

• Replace shower curtain, rug, and towels if necessary.
• Remove all clutter and personal items from counter tops. Keep grooming items in a drawer.
• Make sure everything is sparkling clean, including grout.
• Keep special step stools etc. out of the way to maximize floor space.
• Create a spa-like atmosphere with luxury towels, pretty soaps, etc. if desired.

Bedrooms

• Update bedding if necessary.
• Remove all clutter and make sure the room is depersonalized.
• Make bed neatly and style with throw pillows.
• Edit and style décor items on dressers and night tables.

Closets

• Remove seasonal items that aren’t needed.
• Create space by editing and organizing.
• Make sure items are neat and tidy.
• Create more space by packing up items and putting them in storage.
• Make sure closets appear spacious, not cramped.

Odors

• Have the sellers keep litter boxes clean — scoop at least once per day.
• Avoid smoking in the house.
• Air out the house.
• Use Febreze as needed.