Accessorizing a home is an important part of the home staging process. Home decor is used to direct buyers eyes to where you want them to pay attention to. They’re also used to communicate a lifestyle buyers want to aspire to. Many sellers can go over the top and not realize when they’re showcasing too many accessories.
Photo by: www.uglyhousephotos.com
Take a look at this photo above. What stands out to you? Where does your eye go first? Second? It’s a lot to take in and honestly, looks like clutter. Using accessories is what subconsciously connects buyers to a property. These are just some of the items that can help make a “house” feel like “home”.
- accent tables
- area rugs
- artwork
- baskets
- bedding
- books
- candles
- decorative ceramics and glassware
- flowers and plants
- lamps (table & floor lamps)
- mirrors
- ottomans
- trays
- throws
- throw pillows
- towels
- vases
When choosing accessories choose a common theme and color story in varying shades throughout the home to create a cohesive feel. Refrain from using a mismatch of items. While an eclectic style can look amazing, it’s not to be used when staging a home because it can confuse and make a buyer feel uneasy. Think of it this way, how many accessories would you wear on a blind date? A little can go along way just look at this video.
There is a fine line between accessories finishing off a model home look and accessories acting as clutter. If you’re not sure whether or not to use an item remember less is more. Use these tips when it’s time to accessorize your home:
- Remove clutter and small items (anything smaller than a softball should be packed away.)
- Create variety by playing with visual height and weight.
- Use different textured items and mixed materials.
- We don’t want everything to look the same.
- Choose colors that will work with one another.
- Experiment with symmetry of the items being used.
- Pay close attention to the season and time of year your selling and use decor that showcases this season.
- Use different shapes on the shelves.
- Use books to display decor at different heights.
- Have enough empty space for the eye to rest.
- Every object should feel as though it belongs to the composition and has purpose.
- Pay attention to choosing items that relate to the season you’re selling in.
As you’re placing accessories throughout the home stand back, look at the shelf or surface your working on to make sure it’s visually appealing. When working with more than one shelf in the same area look at the composition of the entire display case. Accessories will help emotionally connect a buyer to a home. Buyers, buy based on emotion so shop your home look for ways to use your accessories in a new and unique way, but don’t be afraid to spend a little money on new decor– because they’ll buy high if they fall in love.
Happy Selling,
