subject: Kitchen Staging [print this page] Home staging is putting makeup on a home so it looks it's best for show day. A lot of home staging is common sense, but you still may want to hire someone for a second opinion. Before show day arrives, paint the kitchen if it needs it, and don't forget the ceiling. Kitchen ceilings get yellowed from cooking.
Start by being a critic. The most important factor in both kitchens and bathrooms is cleanliness. Scrub the whole room from top to bottom.
Buyers will open cupboards so open and clean them.
Clean all blinds and windows. Make sure the windowsill is uncluttered and clean too. A nice pot plant containing herbs that gives off a nice scent works well in a kitchen.
Clean light fittings.
Take EVERYTHING off of the counters. Start putting them back one-by-one, starting with the essentials that most kitchens are expected to have, like a kettle. If you have some nice looking cookbooks, put them out. Put away all other appliances.
Make sure all dishes are put away on show day. Hang up fresh dish towels and remove cleaning supplies. Wipe all the counters and clean the floor. Do not allow any clothes to be on the washline either. Clean sinks and faucets, and make sure the disposal is working. If you have a dustbin, make sure it is emptied.
If you have space, fresh flowers and fruit look nice. Use these items to draw attention to a particular area, like a breakfast nook or island.
A comforting smell is a wonderful idea. A batch of cookies made that morning will leave the house smelling wonderful and give a welcoming touch. Another trick is to bake a few cinnamon sticks in the oven for a few minutes, then leave the oven door open for a while to let the aroma waft through the house.
