If you're lucky enough to have a home with a bonus room or a "flex space," you're already at an advantage. When you're ready to list, this will help your house stand out from many of the other Atlanta homes for sale. However, simply having this extra space isn't enough to attract a great buyer. You also need to know how to properly showcase the room so potential buyers will fall in love. 

Not sure where to start? No worries! Follow these five tips, and you'll be ready to turn your bonus room into one of your home's best features. 

1. Understand Your Potential Buyer
   The first thing you'll need to do is get a good idea of the type of person who is likely to buy your home. This will help you determine what they're likely to want when it comes to extra space. For example, if you live in an up-and-coming area that's popular with professionals, you might consider showcasing the room as a home office, gym, or entertainment room.
   
   On the other hand, if your neighborhood is near great schools and very popular with young families, you might be better off presenting the room as an extra bedroom or a playroom.
   
   If you're not sure about your neighborhood's demographics, a great real estate agent should be able to give you some insight. A local agent is also likely familiar with the features current buyers in your area are looking for, so consider asking for advice before you begin making changes. 

2. Choose a Great Theme (And Stick With It!)
   Once you decide on the theme you'll use for your bonus room, stick with it. The last thing you want to do is give the room a "split personality" that's likely to confuse potential buyers. For example, an office space with some gym equipment in the corner might be practical for you, but it won't present the room in the best possible light. Do your research, choose your theme, and stick with it.
     
3. Consider the Size and Location
   When choosing your theme, make sure that it makes sense for the size and location of the room. No matter how great the idea might seem in theory, you wouldn't want to put a nursery in the basement or a billiard room on the second floor.
   
   If you're going to use the room as an entertainment room or home theater, you'll want to make sure it's properly soundproofed and is large enough to accommodate a large-screen television. Think through these types of details before you start your project so you don't run into any unpleasant surprises later down the line. 

4. Declutter and Depersonalize
   As with every other room in your home, it's also important to declutter and depersonalize your bonus room. Take down family photos and other trinkets and don't make the mistake of piling up boxes in your spare room. If you find you have a space issue, do yourself a favor and rent a storage unit.
   
   You'll also want to keep things fairly neutral. While bright-colored paint and animal cartoons might be great for a playroom, if the buyer doesn't have kids, this will end up being a turn-off as they start envisioning how many coats of paint it will take to cover it. 

5. Give the Room a Refresh  
   Last, but certainly not least, you'll want to give the room a refresh so it's presented in the best possible light. This may mean patching up nail holes in the walls, steam-cleaning carpets, and giving the room a fresh coat of paint.
   
   Don't forget about things like scuffed floorboards or dirty switchplates. Taking care of these small details can make a big difference when it comes to presenting your home in the best possible light. 

Want even more tips to help ensure your house looks its absolute best when it's time to sell? Contact us for personalized advice and top-notch service.