The staged door

There’s that awkward moment when your real estate agent is fumbling through the lock box to get the key, and you (the buyer) are patiently waiting and unconsciously creating a picture of the house you’re about to see. Could this be the only one? What anticipation!

This waiting corral outside your front door is a golden opportunity for a savvy seller to set the stage for the buyer’s tour of your home. That front door area is where first impressions begin and really sets the tone for the rest of the home tour. Just three simple steps can make your front door set the tone for potential buyers to wow: Clean, Update, and Prepare!

Clean:

• Trim the bushes, pull weeds, throw in some fresh mulch, plant some flowers, etc.
• Sweep the porch, steps, and walkway (don’t forget the cobwebs).
• Clean the front door (and the screen door, if you have one).
• Polished doorknobs and light fixtures.
• Pressure wash if necessary.

Update: Now that you can see everything, is there anything you need to update or fix?

• What is the status of the main gate? Does it stick? Do you have to swing your hip to open it? Make sure it works smoothly.
• What about your screen door? If it doesn’t work smoothly, or if it’s an eyesore, remove it.
• Is it necessary to repair the steps? Is the handrail sturdy? Chances are these types of repairs will show up on an inspectors list anyway. Might as well fix them now.
• Lamps: are they worn or outdated? Do the bulbs work? Make it shine!

Internship: You now have your clean canvas to work on. Look at your front door objectively.

• Are your house numbers up to par or looking a bit worn (or outdated)?
• Throw out your welcome mat and get ready for a new one. That small investment can make a big difference!
• If you have the space, add a cozy seating area (but please, no cheap looking lawn chairs!).
• Add some natural elements, ideally potted plants. Choose something bold and of the right scale to make a good impression.
• If appropriate, add a seasonal flower crown. Just make sure she’s not too cutie and please no dried flowers (they represent death in some cultures).
• Adding solar powered lights along the sidewalk or spotlights that highlight a tree can also make a big impact.

now that you have that Wow front door, remember to check it periodically to water the flowers and keep it swept.

They would turn me in if I didn’t take this issue to the next step. What happens once they enter your home? Keep the momentum going and stage the interior of your home too! A professional set designer has the objective ability to see your home as a buyer would see it and make ingenious yet significant changes to the way your home is presented.