Staging a home can increase the sale price by an extra 7 percent and help it sell on average 100 days faster, so it's a no-brainer to snag tips from top designers when it comes time to put your home on the market.
But it can be tricky to pinpoint exactly what needs to be changed and what can stay in your current abode. To help streamline the process, Geoffrey Walsky of Iconic Modern design, who works with Ryan Serhant of “Million Dollar Listing New York,” stopped by with simple tips anyone can use.
1. De-stylize your space
Don't be specific to your unique tastes so that it's a vibe that anyone might like.
2. Clear the clutter and organize
Where do the eyes go first? To the clutter. It's the simplest and least expensive way to make your space look presentable.
3. Define the living spaces
Even if the space feels big, make sure it's being used in the most productive way. Rather than leaving the spare room empty, add a bed and a dresser to show that it works as a bedroom.
4. Light and bright always rules
The easiest, and most cost effective, way to make a space look new is to throw on a fresh coat of paint. Stick to white or neutral colors and the same goes for lighting — bright and white toned lighting always works best.
5. Edit, edit, edit
When it comes to furniture, less can often be more.
6. Make the ordinary extraordinary
Any space can be transformed into an amazing space with the proper furnishings, art and accessories.
7. Modernize and contemporize
Today's buyers are looking for comfortable and new, so if your home is older enhance it with modern furniture, art and accessories.
8. Pay attention to details
Little things like inexpensive, pre-packaged curtains and small decorative objects like throw pillows and coffee table books finish the space and bring it to the next level!
Using these tips and around $1500 in new furniture and rentals,Walsky spruced up this apartment with a few simple changes.
In the living room, the designer brought in an area rug in a light color to brighten the room. "One of the easiest ways to change so much space is an area rug," Walsky said. "If you want to lighten a room or hide or mask any problems with the flooring, you put a rug over it."
In the kitchen, he added a sleek, modern table to define the space and make the room feel even larger. He opted for a white design because "White feels and looks clean. It's also very inviting."
In the master bedroom, Walsky updated the lighting fixtures and streamlined throw pillows for a modern look.
Now that's a million-dollar transformation!