Staging a condo apartment in Ottawa before selling can potentially increase earnings by enhancing the property's appeal, helping buyers visualize the lifestyle, and presenting a professionally maintained, move-in-ready space.
Step 1: Declutter to create the illusion of more space
Start by going room by room to remove any knickknacks, junk, or miscellaneous items from your surfaces and countertops. This includes items such as personal pictures, toys, magazines, and anything else that might make the space feel cluttered or messy. If you have large furniture items that make the space feel cramped, consider storing them off-site during the selling process. Clearing out clutter can help potential buyers see the space more clearly and imagine themselves living there.
Step 2: Clean even the smallest spaces
Use a caddy of cleaning supplies to thoroughly vacuum, dust, and wipe down each area in the unit. Pay special attention to the bathroom and kitchen areas, which can become dirty and cluttered quickly. Buzzfeed has an excellent list of hacks for cleaning small spaces, such as using a cordless stick vacuum for ease of maneuvering, cleaning your stove top with vinegar and a toothbrush, and scrubbing your cabinets and baseboards with a dish cleaner.
Step 3: Depersonalize for mass appeal
Remove any family photos and personal mementos to create a more neutral environment. Potential buyers want to be able to picture themselves living in the space, so it's important to remove anything that might make it feel like someone else's home.
Step 4: Add a few decorative touches
After removing everything except the furniture, bring back a few key decorative items to prevent the space from appearing empty or sterile. This can include items such as plants, decorative pillows, and art.
Step 5: Use statement pieces
To change the vibe of small spaces, use statement pieces that highlight the lifestyle offered by a condo and shift the focus away from its size. You can suggest the freedom to travel with a stack of vintage suitcases, hint at hours spent savoring select vintages with a decorative wine rack, or go for a Zen vibe with a stack of natural river rock. Whether you choose themed statement pieces or a simple, beautifully potted plant, keep your décor clean and uncluttered.
Step 6: Make the most of windows
To enhance the natural light during daylight hours for showings, remove any window treatments that block the outdoor light source. It's best to have miniblinds pulled all the way up or no window treatment at all. Soft, sheer curtains that drape away from the windows can add a touch of elegance and soften the space while allowing maximum light into your condo.
Step 7: Add lighting
To ensure your condo looks its best during open house showings, it's important to have ample electrical lighting, in addition to natural light. Choose mini light fixtures or track lighting that provide plenty of illumination without overwhelming the space. Clear glass table lamps and slim, polished metal floor lamps are great options to add brightness and shine without taking up too much room. Bright LED lights that turn on instantly are essential. Opt for bulbs with a soft or cool light, but keep in mind that the bulb you choose can also affect the appearance of your wall colors. It's a good idea to test different brands, wattages, and color temperatures to find the best fit for your condo.
Step 8: Paint the walls
To make your statement pieces pop, you need a neutral background. Paint your walls a neutral color. While there are many colors that pass as neutrals, it is best to stick to the white color palette when painting the interior of a condo. Avoid using a sterile, hospital-like white color. Instead, opt for a cool, blue-tinted hue like Glidden’s Silver Birch, a warm cream color like Sherwin
Step 9: Create a welcoming atmosphere with luxurious touches. Add a new shower curtain, rolled towels, and fancy soaps to the bathroom. Keep the space uncluttered and ready.