Home Staging: For the Kitchen

One of the key “buying centres” of a house. The buyer should be able to visualize preparing meals and following a daily routine within the kitchen. Buyers do not want to think of everyday drudgery – they want to imagine good events, holidays or having guests over for dinner. They don’t want to think about washing dishes – they want to think about family time in the space. In this example, there were several great ideas for adding a little extra detail to the kitchen.

Really Clean

Stove top, oven and burners, fan, light and any detachables
Microwaves, fridge and freezers - inside and out
Floors, walls and baseboards
Garbage containers - empty daily and wash out to prevent odours
Windows and glass cupboards (including patio doors)
All cupboards and counter tops
Light switches and fixtures
Faucets - shine them up
Rust deposits at drip points if its porcelain
Applying orange oil to unpainted or unvarnished wood
Keeping the kitchen sink clean and empty on a daily basis
Stained tile grout with bleach

Remove or Store

All cleaning supplies hidden and out of sight
All family photos, collections and personal items – pack away
Tables, window ledges and counter tops free of all miscellaneous items
Dirty towels, oven mitts
Extra TVs, Radios and electronics
Coffeepots, toasters, kettles, utensils, pots, and knives out of sight
Fridge magnets and notes
Condiments, spice racks and shakers
All pet items, including water dishes and toys
Check the tops of cupboards for items
Keep floors bare or use one large rug to distract any unsightly floor patterns
Identify what items you use on a daily basis and pack everything else
Clear, clean and pack your cupboards of items seldom used
Any extra shelving or storage units in the kitchen – these storage units may highlight the fact that there is not enough cupboard space
Store kitchen knife block – safety
Replace or Repair

Faucets for leaks and grit
Sliding doors out to patios that do not slide easily
Any tile or counter tops for damage
Trim or edging that may be damaged
Detachable parts of the stove including exhaust fans, filters and hoods

Review & Detail

Remove leaves in tables to create more space if necessary
Add a fresh flower arrangement or bowl of fruit
Lighting is all on and light bulbs at maximum wattage
Open up the blinds/drapes for every open house

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