Staging the Outside of Your House

As an Accredited Staging Professional, I was taught that the outside of your house is just as important. Everyone knows that Great curb appeal, and a memorable first impression is essential. In a hot market people will overlook the sight of your yard and the clutter on your house. Not these days, where there is much more to choose from So stage the outside of your house.

Start by looking at the outside of your home through a stranger's eyes. Go and stand outside in the street if you have to. Can you see your house or is it blocked by a big bush or a tree? If so, time to trim or wack it off. All windows should be clear of vegetations to allow maximum light into the house. Large, large trees overpower the house.

What about the grass? We are aiming for green and no bare spots. Remove all that is dead, even those that will grow back. Death to all weeds! Be ruthless. Cut back those jungle plants. If you can't be objective, hire a professional landscaper for his opinion. Pruned bushes should be round, because it is more modern looking and gives it a softer look. Pine trees or larger trees should be trimmed, so that the bottom five feet of the trunk is visible. It makes the yard appear more spacious.

New wood chips spruce up the garden and make it look professionally landscaped. Plant flowers in well-placed groups where the eyes are likely to rest. Remember to plant flowers with instant color. Unless it is in the fall, try to stay away from the colors yellow and orange.

We don't want prospective buyers to think you neglect your yard. Just as with the inside of the house, we need to make it look as spacious and manicured as possible.