Staging is a system of arranging home furnishings to create a welcoming atmosphere and a positive impact from the first moment a prospective buyer enters the door.

Staging is not a new concept. It has been used for years in other areas of business. Store windows, meals in a good restaurant, photos in magazines, they all are staged to achieve the same goal - a great first impression.

Staging can be done by editing, subtracting, de-personalizing, neutralizing, creating a phantasy play and passing subliminal messages. It is, in a way, manipulating people's emotions.

Staging is not decorating or renovating, and it does not aim to deceive. It does not cover major flaws, but highlights the benefits of a home. Its major function is to slow a prospective buyer down so that he may notice features and benefits of the property.

Staging should appeal to all senses. It should make a good visual impression; it should include soft background music; appeal to touch by using big, soft, fluffy towels, faux fur or chenile throws and pillows; ensure the house smells fresh by using fresh flowers, baking, or having open windows in warm season; appeal to taste by leaving candies or cookies for visitors.

First impression is crucial, therefore it is important to ensure good curb appeal and inviting entrance. Seasonal external clean-up is extremely important, and it is best to have empty driveway and front door in good condition.

Sometimes it is necessary to do some re-painting, and neutral colours are better. Not only they make space look larger, but also they usually appeal to any taste. But the first goal to accomplish is to eliminate clutter. This can be done with little expense, and provides immediate result. De-cluttering should also be applied to closets and all storage spaces. Storage spaces are high on a requirement list of potential buyers, and well organized storage gives an impression of good housekeeping and maintenance.

Good kitchen is one of the top selling features. Even if it is not recently renovated, it should be as neat and spacious as possible. Small appliances should be removed from the counters, and the refrigerator should be cleared of notes and magnets. And, obviously, all the appliances should be clean.  

Often it is necessary to remove unnecessary items and oversized furniture. You should store boxes out of the way or rent a temporary storage space while the house is being sold.

Windows should be clean and should not be covered with heavy drapery - especially is the view is nice. But even with a sub-prime view it is better to hang soft shears to allow as much light into the house as possible. And, of course, ensure that all light fixtures work properly and are equipped with the strongest possible lightbulbs.

Live plants always add appeal to the indoors, and landscaping front and backyard will create a good impression. Having an outdoor 'entertaining space' by setting out patio furniture is helpful even in the winter.

In summary - you should aim to create a great first impression, to allow the prospective buyers to see themselves in your home, and to fall in love with it as soon as they see it from outside.