Real Estate Marketing & Beyond
Selling a home isn't just about the property; it’s about selling a potential lifestyle. The bedroom, is often a homeowner's sanctuary or retreat, is a vital part of the function of a home for many buyers. Here's a more in-depth look at making your bedroom a buyer's dream. Find some quick tips on staging a bedroom.
Every homeowner knows that a bedroom is more than just a sleeping space. It’s a retreat, a place of rest, dreams, and sometimes, even introspection. During showings, when potential buyers enter a bedroom, they visualize their most personal moments.
Will this be a space where they can relax, think, dream, and feel safe? And, no bedroom is more important than the primary bedroom.
You aim to ensure the answer is a resounding "Yes!"
After the kitchen and the main living room or family room, the primary bedroom is third on most buyers' list of critical spaces. These rooms should be a priority when preparing and staging a home for sale.
The primary bedroom is where the day begins and ends. For most, it's a place of refuge.
After a long, grueling day, who doesn't look forward to collapsing onto their bed and just...relaxing? It's the one place where the chaos of the outside world fades away.
When buyers step into this space of a primary bedroom, they're not just evaluating the room; they're gauging the quality of rest they'd get if they lived there.
We all have those cherished personal items, but a prospective buyer doesn’t need to see them.
Remember, they're buying the house, not your memories. By removing personal items, you’re allowing them to imagine their memories in that space.
Clear out books you've read, old chargers, and definitely that pile of clothes that's always on that one chair.
Neutral doesn’t mean boring. By going with beige, whites, or soft grays, you’re providing a canvas. Allowing the buyers to see a blank slate.
Moreover, neutral colors give the impression of space and cleanliness. Almost any color or style can be introduced into a room painted with a neutral color.
Natural light can boost the mood of any room. Ditch those thick drapes and let in the morning sunshine.
For evenings, soft white bulbs can provide a calm atmosphere.
Pro tip: Layer your lighting. A mix of overhead, accent, and task lighting can make all the difference.
4. Furniture Placement: The Art of Space
The bed should be your primary focal point, but its placement is crucial. The sightline from the door should be clear, making the room feel welcoming.
Add symmetrical elements like matching bedside tables and lamps. Got extra space? Think of a reading nook or even a small workspace.
Maintaining plenty of space around your furniture is critical to navigate the room. Negative space with no furniture or accents will help give a sense of spaciousness.
Accessories should complement your bedroom. They shouldn't overpower or become the main event.
Instead, they should subtly contribute to the room's atmosphere. A decorative vase here, a minimalistic clock there, or even a tasteful piece of wall art can enhance without overwhelming.
And those scatter cushions? Perfect, but maybe limit them to a few so the bed doesn’t look like a cushion store.
Ever walked into a room and felt instantly calm because of its scent? That's the feeling you buyers. The right aroma can evoke comfort, nostalgia, or even luxury.
But there's a thin line between delightful and overpowering. Stick to soft, universally appealing scents like fresh linen or mild vanilla.
Avoid anything too strong or polarizing, as it might put off some buyers or make them wonder what you're trying to mask.
Mirrors do more than show our reflection; they manipulate space.
You can create the illusion of depth and spaciousness by strategically placing a mirror, especially in smaller bedrooms.
Mirrors also help distribute light, further amplifying the room's brightness and energy. Remember, it’s not about placing mirrors everywhere but using them wisely to enhance the room's aesthetics.
Ever touched a fabric and felt instant comfort? That's what quality textiles can achieve. Choose bed linens that look luxurious and feel soft to the touch.
It might be tempting to save on this, but good quality textiles can make a potential buyer linger a little longer, imagining themselves wrapped up in that comfort.
As for rugs, they should complement the room, adding a touch of warmth and elegance. Be careful the pattern on the rug is not so overpowering it becomes the room's focal point. And make sure if you use an area rug it does not cover some beautiful flooring.
Remember, they are buying the floor in the house and not your area rugs.
While there’s a lot to do, there are also things to steer clear of:
Over-Personalization: One or two small family photos are okay, but a shrine to your high school achievements isn't. Neutralize the space so buyers can envision it as their space.
Using Dark, Oppressive Colors: They might set a 'mood', but they can also make rooms feel small and claustrophobic.
Ignoring Closets: And, they'll look. Ensure closets are organized and presentable. A messy closet can send the wrong message about the home's storage capabilities.
Edit The Room: When staging the room, I recommend editing the room. This means pairing down the furniture to the absolute essentials and what fits properly in the space.
Neglect Lighting: Many people underestimate the power of good lighting. Avoid relying solely on overhead lights. Instead, layer with ambient, task, and accent lighting. Dimly lit rooms can feel gloomy and smaller, so utilize natural light and well-placed lamps to create a warm, spacious feel. And don’t forget many of your showings may occur after the sun has set.
A: It varies. The key is not overspending but investing in the right elements that maximize appeal. Often, you can work with what you already have.
A: Absolutely! With the right guidance and a good eye, you can DIY. However, if unsure, consulting with a professional might be beneficial.
A: Very. While kitchens and living rooms are crucial, a bedroom is personal. You're on the right track if buyers can see themselves resting there.
A: Not all, but most. The idea is to depersonalize the space while still making it feel lived-in and cozy.
A: Declutter, use proportional furniture, and opt for lighter colors to create an open feel. Mirrors can also help in giving a spacious illusion. It's all about making the most of what you've got.
A: You can absolutely use bold colors, just balance them with neutral accents. Ensure the chosen colors still promote relaxation. Remember to check how they appear under different lighting too. Cohesion and comfort are key.
Staging a bedroom isn’t about deception or hiding flaws.
It's about presenting the room in its best light, letting its potential shine. It's an art, with a touch of science and a sprinkle of psychology.
Get it right, and you’re not just selling a room; you’re selling dreams, comfort, and possibilities. Best of luck with your home staging journey!
Kevin Vitali is a Massachusetts Realtor who is an avid blogger, offering advice on home buying and home selling.
