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How to stage your entryway


Blog by Kim Twohey | May 18th, 2016


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Your entryway is the first room that Buyers typically see.  This often overlooked space can pack a big punch when it comes to a Buyer’s impression of your home.  With a few quick tweaks, you can create an entryway that makes a lasting impression.  Here are some ideas to help you get started. 

Cleanliness first!

Take a few minutes to wipe down baseboards, doors, walls, and windows in your entryway.  This will remove dust and scuffs and immediately shows that your home is well cared for.

Ensure that everything works.

You do not want a Buyer’s first impression of your home to be one marred by a stuck lock or a squeaky door.  Make sure that everything in this space is functional and in good repair.

Update the hardware.

In a small space like the entryway, a little bit of updating can go a long way!  Consider switching out the hardware on the doors or light switches. 

Create space.

Buyers will look in the closet by your front door.  Clean out this space to really showcase its functionality.  Remove shoes and jackets that you are not using regularly.  Store things like gloves and hats in overhead baskets. 

Remove the clutter.

Buyers do not want to walk into your house and see a pile of mail and your extra car keys lying around.  Create a space to store these things out of sight.  The solution can be as simple as a floating shelf with decorative baskets.  If space allows, you can use an entry table with drawers.

Add some interest.

A few tasteful and decorative touches in your entryway can really impress Buyers.  A vase of flowers on a table helps to freshen up the space.  Make sure that anything you add does not impede the space by taking up too much room.

Light it up.

A bright entryway is not optional; it is a must!  If you do not have a window in this space, you can lighten it up by changing the wall colour, installing a mirror, or adding additional lighting with floor or table lamps. 

If you asked, most people would say that the kitchen, living room, and master bedroom are the most important rooms to stage when selling a house.  While these rooms are important, the entryway might actually have more influence on Buyers.  This is the first room of the home they experience.  It is also where they are likely to spend more time.  Buyers and Realtors often review their impressions of a home while they are standing in the entryway putting on their shoes and coats.  This room is the first and last space that Buyers experience.

Have you ever toured a home with a memorable entryway?  Share with me on Twitter what impressed you most about the space!