When it comes to selling a home, first impressions are everything. According to data from the National Association of Realtors, staged homes not only attract more attention from buyers but also tend to sell up to 30 times faster than their unstaged counterparts. An empty home, while a blank canvas, often leaves potential buyers struggling to envision its true potential. Spaces may seem smaller, less inviting, and lack the warmth that buyers seek in a home. Transforming an empty property into an attractive, inviting space can be the key to capturing the imagination of buyers, helping them picture their future lives within its walls.
Here’s how sellers can turn an empty property into a stunning showpiece that draws in offers.
1. Enlist an Interior Designer’s Expertise
Professional designers understand how to transform empty spaces into visually appealing areas that feel cohesive and welcoming. They can guide furniture selection, color schemes, and layout to enhance each room’s strengths, while subtly masking any unsightly spots. Designers are also skilled at balancing aesthetics with functionality, creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also make sense in practical terms.
Interior designers have access to an array of resources and contacts, including furniture suppliers and décor options that may be unavailable to the average homeowner.
They can work with an interior designer moving company to bring in furniture and accessories that are perfectly suited to the space. Interior design moving companies provide a range of services, from full-service staging to partial design setups, depending on the homeowner’s needs.
This professional touch can make a lasting impact on buyers, helping them connect with the property on a deeper level.
2. Make Curb Appeal a Top Priority to Attract Buyers
Before buyers even step through the front door, the exterior of a home has already made a lasting impression. A property’s curb appeal plays a critical role in generating initial interest, as an attractive exterior can draw potential buyers in for a closer look. There are several ways to enhance curb appeal that don’t require a major investment. For example, simple touches like a fresh coat of paint on the front door, neatly trimmed landscaping, or new outdoor lighting can instantly make a home feel more inviting.
Adding potted plants near the entryway or refreshing the walkway with new stepping stones can also add charm and character. These small upgrades go a long way in creating a welcoming feel that starts outside and sets a positive tone for the rest of the home. With these upgrades, buyers are more likely to enter with enthusiasm and optimism, eager to see what awaits inside.
3. Use Neutral Colors to Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
When it comes to painting and decorating, neutrals are the key to broad appeal. Soft, warm tones like beige, light gray, or ivory make rooms feel open, calm, and versatile enough to suit a variety of personal styles. Bright or bold colors can sometimes distract or limit a buyer’s imagination, while neutrals allow them to envision how their own belongings would look in the space.
Neutral colors also highlight the natural light in a room, which can help spaces feel larger and more inviting. In contrast to dark or intense colors, which can make rooms feel smaller, a neutral palette opens up the home. This light, airy feeling is particularly important in smaller rooms, where maximizing perceived space can make a significant impact on a buyer’s impression.
4. Select Furniture That Complements the Space Without Overwhelming It
Choosing the right furniture is crucial to the success of a staged home, as pieces that are too large or too small can distort a room’s proportions and limit its appeal. It’s essential to pick furniture that not only fits the room well but also highlights its best features. For instance, in a small living room, a sleek sofa and a couple of armchairs create a cozy gathering space without overcrowding. In larger rooms, more substantial pieces may be needed to prevent the space from feeling empty.
Arranging furniture to emphasize the flow and functionality of each room also helps potential buyers envision how they would use the space. Thoughtful selection and positioning can turn an empty house into a lived-in, inviting home. With well-chosen furniture, each room becomes more than just a space; it becomes a room with purpose, inspiring buyers to see themselves living comfortably within it.
5. Use Lighting Strategically to Set the Right Mood
Lighting can dramatically transform the ambiance of a home. A well-lit room feels inviting and vibrant, while poor lighting can make a space feel small and unappealing. To achieve the right balance, consider using a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Overhead lighting can brighten the entire room, while task lights, like lamps near seating or work areas, add warmth and functionality. Accent lighting, such as wall sconces or under-cabinet lights, can highlight special features, adding layers to the room’s design.
Natural light is also crucial. When staging a home, keep window treatments minimal or open to allow sunlight to flow in, which can make spaces feel larger and more welcoming. Proper lighting not only enhances a room’s appeal but also allows buyers to view the property in its best light—literally.
6. Add Finishing Touches with Inviting Accents and Textures
Accents and textures add character to a home without overwhelming it. Carefully chosen décor, such as throw pillows, rugs, and wall art, can make spaces feel warm and lived-in. Texture plays a vital role in adding depth to a room’s aesthetic. Consider soft fabrics like plush rugs or velvet cushions to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. A well-placed throw blanket or a few tasteful decorative items, like vases or candles, can make a space feel stylish yet comfortable.
When using accents, keep them subtle to avoid cluttering the space. Neutral-colored items work well, as they blend seamlessly while enhancing the overall aesthetic. These small touches create a balanced, visually pleasing environment that encourages buyers to relax and imagine their own belongings in the home.
Transforming an empty property into a welcoming, well-designed showpiece can make all the difference in a competitive real estate market. By starting with a clear plan, enlisting professional help, emphasizing curb appeal, and carefully designing each space, sellers can present a home that stands out. Thoughtful touches like neutral colors, appropriate furniture, strategic lighting, and cleanliness ensure that the property appeals to a broad range of buyers. In the end, a well-staged home does more than just look good—it connects with potential buyers emotionally, helping them imagine a life there. This connection is often the deciding factor that leads to faster offers and a successful sale.
Full disclosure: She Owns It partners with others through contributor posts, affiliate links, and sponsored content. We are compensated for sponsored content. The views and opinions expressed reflect those of our guest contributor or sponsor. We have evaluated the links and content to the best of our ability at this time to make sure they meet our guidelines. As links and information evolve, we ask that readers do their due diligence, research, and consult with professionals as needed. If you have questions or concerns with any content published on our site, please let us know. We strive to only publish ethical content that supports our community. Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.