From “Blah” To “Wow”!

Make sure everything works well: cabinet doors, pulls and knobs, no leaking faucets.
New hardware for the cabinets is not very costly and it makes a huge impact. Preferably, everything should match in your kitchen (all glass, all stainless steel, all chrome or all oil rubbed brass).

Appliances need to be spotless.

Countertops are one of the most expansive upgrades for your kitchen, but for those of us on a budget, here is a simple fix. If you have laminate countertops, you can freshen it up with paint. Go to your local hardware store and ask for laminate countertops paint.

If you have butcher block countertops, oil them. A small can of oil or wax will do the trick.

If you have a bar, you need to emphasize it. It needs to be defined as an eating area, so stage it with a couple of bar stools and a few accessories. Every counter space counts and it is a great selling feature. If there is a breakfast nook in your kitchen, stage it with a small table and 2 or 4 chairs (depending on the size of the nook). Don’t forget to set the table to create a welcoming atmosphere so buyers can picture themselves living in your house.

It is very important that you de-clutter the countertops; you MUST show off the space. There is no better example of less is more. Pick ONE (yes just one!) small electric appliance (it should be the one you can’t live without and it should look clean): this one can stay! The rest MUST go. Then, use your imagination: wooden or stainless steel bowls with apples or lemons, fresh flowers, a kettle on the stove and you’re good to go.

But no, wait! Remember to bake cookies or a pie before you start your open house. There is nothing better than the smell of baked sweets to attract potential buyers!

There are many more things you can do to stage your kitchen but these solutions should help you get a better idea of what a staged kitchen should look like.

Staging tip of the week:
To clean stainless steel appliances, use a smooth cloth with a few drops of olive oil. Wipe gently and Voilà!

Good luck!
Virginie Gill, Certified Staging Expert
Owner of Voila Design