Less Really is More

When we decide to sell our home, that’s our focus – the sale. Perhaps we should put more focus on marketing our homes and think of the sale as the desired outcome.

At the start of the process – whether we call it marketing or selling –  you’ll be encouraged to present your home at it’s best and one of the most important aspects of this is to declutter. This may sound like a real estate cliché but it is possibly the best advice you can take notice of.

Clutter – to fill or cover with scattered or disordered things that impede movement or reduce effectiveness

Making it easy for potential buyers to see themselves living in your home (yes, another cliché but very true) will increase interest in your home. More interest will lead to a higher number of motivated buyers which creates competition for your home thus a potentially higher sale price.

In practical terms what does decluttering mean?

• Clear tables and benchtops to show the work area on offer, particularly in your lounge, kitchen, dining, office and bathroom
• Ensure childrens toys, games and family hobby materials are stored neatly
• Put shoes and coats away in wardrobes or storage cupboards
• Reduce the amount of “things” you need in your space – it may be interesting to see how much “stuff” you can do without
• Consider putting seasonal clothing and equipment into storage for the period of your marketing campaign

Think about how furniture stores display their products – they create lounge, bedroom and dining settings. There’s no excess, just tastful, liveable décor. This allows the potential purchaser to clearly see how the products can work in a space. Your home is your product – let potential buyers see how your home works for you and could work for them.

Home is where the heart is but when you’re selling and/or moving home it may require a herculian effort to get organised and put your heart into that process but you just might find it’s the most worthwhile effort you make.