How to Stage Your Grand Rapids Home for a Quick Summer Sale

Selling your home in Grand Rapids can feel like a big project, especially when you want it to sell fast. In a market like Grand Rapids, a well-staged home can make all the difference, helping your property stand out and attract the right buyers quickly. The good news is, you don't need a huge budget or professional help to make your home shine. This guide will walk you through simple, DIY staging strategies that will get your Grand Rapids home ready for a quick summer sale.

Real estate doesn’t have to be complicated. With Cornerstone Home Group, you get expert guidance and a dedication to "Serving All Your Real Estate Needs" every step of the way. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, we’re here to help. Contact us today at 616.341.7231 or via our website contact form to start the conversation!

Why Do Home Sellers Need Home Staging?

Think about how you feel when you walk into a clean, inviting space versus one that's cluttered or feels neglected. That's the power of staging. It’s about more than just decorating; it's about showcasing your home's best features and helping potential buyers envision themselves living there. When buyers can easily imagine their lives unfolding in your home, they're more likely to make an offer.

In the summer, people are often looking to move quickly to get settled before school starts or the weather changes. A home that's ready to go—one that looks move-in ready—has a significant advantage. Even small efforts can lead to a quicker sale and potentially a higher selling price.

Declutter Everything

This is the golden rule of home staging, and it costs nothing but your time. Clutter makes a home feel smaller, messier, and less inviting. It also distracts buyers from seeing the true potential of your space. Go through every room with a critical eye. If you haven't used something in a year or if it doesn't serve a clear purpose, consider donating, selling, or discarding it. This includes knick-knacks, piles of magazines, stacks of mail, excess furniture, and overflowing closets.

While your family photos and unique collections are cherished, they can make it harder for buyers to see their family in the home. Pack away personal photographs, memorabilia, and highly personalized decor. You want to create a neutral canvas. Countertops, tables, and shelves should be as clear as possible. In the kitchen, this means minimizing appliances. In bathrooms, put away all personal care items.

Buyers will open closets and look in pantries. Make sure these areas are organized and not overflowing. This shows that your home has ample storage space, a big selling point for many. Aim to have closets about 30% empty to give the impression of spaciousness. Don't forget the garage and basement. While they might be used for storage, a tidy garage or basement implies a well-maintained home.

• Tip for Grand Rapids Sellers: Consider renting a small storage unit for items you don't want to get rid of but need to remove from the house during showings. Many local storage facilities offer competitive rates, especially for short-term rentals. We have a great relationship with Matt from Units Moving and Portable Storage. If you are looking for a way to move your items and you don’t want to have to put them in a storage facility, this is the perfect option. Call Matt at 248.561.6052 or view their website at www.UnitsWestMichigan.com.

Deep Clean Everything

After decluttering, the next step is a thorough deep clean. A clean home signals to buyers that the home has been well cared for. This is another task that primarily requires effort, not money.

Kitchens and bathrooms are often deal-breakers for buyers. In the kitchen, scrub countertops, clean the sink, polish faucets, wipe down appliance surfaces, and clean inside the microwave and oven. Make sure the floor is spotless. In bathrooms, clean toilets, showers, bathtubs, and sinks. Polish mirrors, wipe down counters, and make sure grout is clean. Replace any moldy caulk.

Vacuum carpets thoroughly, and consider renting a carpet cleaner if there are stains or odors. Mop hard floors until they gleam. Clean windows inside and out. Sparkling windows let in more light and offer clearer views, making rooms feel brighter and larger. Don't forget to dust every surface, including ceiling fans, light fixtures, baseboards, and blinds. Look for scuff marks or fingerprints on walls and baseboards. A quick wipe-down with a Magic Eraser can work wonders. Clean light fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Brighter rooms feel more inviting.

Light and Bright

Light makes a home feel open, airy, and welcoming. Maximize the light in every room. During showings, open all curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. Turn on all lights for showings, even during the day. This includes overhead lights, lamps, and even closet lights. Consider using higher wattage bulbs (within the fixture's safety limits) in areas that tend to be dim. Strategically placed mirrors can bounce light around a room, making it feel larger and brighter.

Define Each Space

Every room should have a clear purpose. If you have a spare room that's become a catch-all, define it. Set the living room up for conversation and relaxation. Clearly show the dining room as a place for meals. Make sure each bedroom is clearly identifiable as such, even if it's currently used as an office or gym. If you have a small space that could serve as an office, set it up with a small desk and chair to highlight its potential.

Small Repairs

Those small, nagging repairs you've put off can send a message to buyers that the home hasn't been well-maintained. Tackle these simple fixes before showings. Fix any drips or leaks. Repair running toilets – the sound can be annoying. Lubricate sticky door hinges or window tracks. Tighten loose doorknobs. Replace any obviously cracked tiles. Patch small nail holes or other minor wall damage. Touch up any areas where paint is peeling or chipped.

Paint for a Fresh Look

A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color is one of the most impactful and cost-effective ways to update your home. Think shades of off-white, light gray, or "greige" (a mix of gray and beige). These colors appeal to the widest range of buyers and provide a blank slate for them to imagine their own decor. If you can't paint the whole house, focus on the main living areas, the kitchen, and the bathrooms. Don't forget the exterior. A fresh coat of paint on your front door or trim can significantly boost curb appeal.

If you want a professional painter but are not sure where to look, we trust and highly recommend Steve with That 1 Painter. Call him at 616.450.4140 and he will make sure you love your space and work with your timetable!

Enhance Curb Appeal

The exterior of your home is the very first thing buyers see, whether online or in person. Make sure it makes a fantastic first impression. Mow the lawn regularly, trim edges, and pull weeds. Trim bushes and trees. Add a few fresh flowers in planters or garden beds, especially in the summer. Even a few inexpensive annuals can brighten things up. Power wash the siding, driveway, and walkways if they're dirty. Clean your front door, polish hardware, and consider a fresh coat of paint if needed. A new, welcoming doormat can also make a difference. If you have a porch or patio, arrange outdoor furniture to create an inviting seating area. Clear away garden hoses, tools, toys, and anything else that detracts from the yard's appearance.

• Grand Rapids Summer Tip: Take advantage of the beautiful summer weather! Show off your outdoor spaces. If you have a deck, patio, or backyard, make sure it's clean and set up to suggest a relaxing oasis.

The Power of Scent

While you don't want to go overboard with strong air fresheners, a subtle, pleasant scent can make a home feel more inviting. Think about scents like freshly baked cookies (a classic for a reason!), vanilla, or a light citrus. Don't use anything too strong or artificial. More importantly, eliminate any unpleasant odors from pets, cooking, or dampness. Open windows to air out the house before showings. Clean pet areas thoroughly.

Arrange Furniture for Flow

The way your furniture is arranged can dramatically impact how large and functional a room feels. Ensure clear pathways through each room. Buyers should be able to move freely without bumping into furniture. Don't push all furniture against the walls. Pulling pieces slightly away can make a room feel more spacious and create a cozier, more inviting arrangement. If a room feels crowded, remove a piece or two of furniture. Less furniture often makes a room appear larger. In living rooms, arrange seating to encourage conversation.

Stage Key Rooms

While you want the whole house to look good, some rooms have more impact on buyers. Focus your best efforts here: the living room (where buyers envision relaxing and entertaining), the kitchen (often considered the heart of the home), the master bedroom (buyers want a tranquil retreat), and bathrooms (cleanliness and functionality are paramount).

The Final Touches

Before every showing, take a few minutes for these quick checks: Make beds. Fluff pillows on couches and chairs. In bathrooms, use fresh, clean towels. Put toilet lids down – a small but important detail. Ensure all trash cans are empty. Open windows (if weather permits) for fresh air. Turn on all lights!

Getting Ready for Showings

Once your staging is complete, there are a few last-minute steps to take before each showing: Arrange for pets to be out of the house. Not everyone loves animals, and pet odors or dander can be a deterrent. Remove pet bowls, toys, and litter boxes. Secure any jewelry, medications, or small valuables. Whenever possible, leave your home during showings. Buyers feel more comfortable exploring and discussing the property freely when the owners aren't present. Ensure your home is at a comfortable temperature, especially during a Grand Rapids summer. A cool, comfortable home is more appealing.

Taking Great Photos

In today's market, most buyers see your home online before they ever step foot inside. High-quality photos are crucial. Take photos during the day with all lights on and curtains open. Ensure every photo shows a perfectly clean and staged room. Use a wide-angle lens if possible to capture more of the room. Take photos from different angles of each room. If you have a beautiful fireplace, built-ins, or a great view, make sure it's captured. Include clear, inviting photos of the front and back of your home.

• DIY Photo Tip: While professional photos are ideal, you can take good photos with a smartphone. Just make sure you have good lighting, a steady hand, and take multiple shots to choose the best ones. Edit for brightness and contrast, but avoid over-filtering.
  

Making Your Grand Rapids Home Summer-Ready

Selling your Grand Rapids home doesn't have to be overwhelming, even on a budget. By focusing on these simple, DIY staging strategies—decluttering, deep cleaning, maximizing light, making small repairs, and boosting curb appeal—you can create an inviting space that appeals to a wide range of buyers. In the competitive summer market, these efforts will help your home stand out, attract more interest, and ultimately lead to a quicker sale. Remember, the goal is to help buyers envision themselves living their best life in your home. Good luck, and happy selling!