If you're preparing to put your home on the market soon, you probably want to accomplish two things: Sell your home as quickly as you can and get as much for it as possible. To do that, you need your home to look its best.

Over the years, our real estate agents have learned a lot about staging a home to sell. Staging allows you to present your home in the best light and makes it possible for prospective buyers to envision themselves living there. Here's how to do it right. 

• Eliminate Clutter
  Getting rid of clutter is one of the most important steps to getting your home ready for the market. That means eliminating anything unnecessary, from old magazines and extra knick-knacks to unwanted clothes and furniture. And don't just pack everything into closets; you want those to be clutter-free when potential buyers look around. Donate, recycle and give away what you can, and consider having a yard sale to help purge unnecessary belongings.
  
  
• Deep Clean
  When you're getting ready to stage your house, clean like you've never cleaned before. Windows, counters, grout, floors—every surface should shine. Take special care to get your kitchen, bathrooms, and entryway spotless. Surveys suggest that these are the rooms that make the most important impression on prospective buyers.
  
  
• Strike a Balance
  Now that you've cleaned and de-cluttered, it's time to bring back just a few choice items to make your home seem welcoming. Maybe a coffee table book or two, a vase with some fresh cut flowers, a decorative bowl here, a basket of fresh fruit there. 
  
  
• Cast a Wide Net
  Sure, you have your own style, and you've got your living space just how you like it. But you don't need to impress yourself; you need to impress each visitor who arrives at your open house. So it's a good idea to ignore your own specific taste for a while, and go broad. Arrange the furniture in simple, symmetrical arrangements. Limit decor to a few basic touches. Get rid of personal items. If you repaint, use simple, low-key colors that will appeal to anyone. 
  
  
• Make it Easy on the Nose
  It's easy to focus on making your house look its best, but ignore all the other senses. Smell is especially important. Avoid overpowering scented candles, incense, and potpourri, and definitely don't cook anything pungent the day before a showing. 
  
  
• Remember Curb Appeal
  Staging isn't limited to the inside of your house. In fact, the exterior is the first thing every arrival to your open house will see, so it's especially important to make a good first impression. Make sure the lawn is mowed, trees and shrubs are trimmed, porches are neat and tidy, and yards are free of tools, kids' toys, and other clutter. Put out a few tasteful decorations that match the season—flowers in springtime or a wreath during the holidays. 
  
  
• Go With a Pro
  Some people have a great design sense. Some don't. Be honest about your ability to stage your house, and ask for help if you need it. Maybe you have a friend or relative with a great eye who would be willing to do you a favor, or maybe you need to call in a house staging professional.

Contact us today to learn more about getting your home ready to sell. From listing and staging, to accepting an offer and signing on the dotted line, our team has years of experience offering Atlanta homes for sale, and we're committed to getting a great price for your home.