HOME STAGING

1. Keep furniture and accessories in line with the property’s style, location and, ultimately, the lifestyle it offers but also think about incorporating statement pieces such as a glamorous headboard, some art work or a feature wall to help your home stand out.

2. Accentuate the positives. You can have some fun here. For example, if I were staging a home with a cinema or TV room, I’d add some gourmet popcorn, some cosy throws and perhaps a bar cart to really emphasise the theme.

3. Target multiple senses. While a viewing is obviously about what you see, it’s also about the whole experience. Candles and rooms diffusers create muscle memory and can be a great way to keep your property front of mind. If you’re dressing your home during the warmer months try incorporating light floral scents and natural fabrics, like cotton and linen. During the winter months, earth tomes and fireside scents work better.

4. Dress your property for the buyer’s or tenant’s needs. For example, if you have four or more bedrooms consider staging one as a study or office. If not, could your landing accommodate a desk? This can really pay off as having a dedicated work from home space remains in demand.

5. Including branded goods such as luxury soaps and accessories can be appealing. But there’s no need to go overboard or pay a fortune. Pitch them at the right level and position subtly. Here, less can be more and it’s about matching or complementing a lifestyle, rather than the brand names themselves.

6. You don’t need to do the whole house. Focus on the ‘decision maker’ rooms such as the entrance hall and the rooms in which people spend the majority of their time.

7. If you are opting to have your property professionally dressed, you can do this for a fixed period and, again, just concentrate on key rooms which is a great option for those looking for a shortterm, but effective solution.