In today’s world, most buyers start their home search online. Whether it's browsing listings or checking out a virtual tour, it’s crucial that your home looks its best from the very start. A great online presence can make all the difference in getting serious buyers interested.
Whether you're getting ready for photos, an online listing, or a virtual tour, here are some simple tips to make sure your home stands out online.
1. Clean and Declutter Everything
The first thing you want to do is clean up and get rid of clutter. A clean, tidy home not only looks nicer but also gives off a more welcoming vibe, which can make a big impact online.
Here’s what to do:
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Dust and wipe down all surfaces, including windows and floors.
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Organize things and get rid of anything you don’t need—less is more!
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Store personal items like family photos, kids’ toys, and anything that could distract from the space itself.
A clean and clutter-free home helps buyers imagine themselves living there, and it looks better in photos, too.
2. Make Sure the Lighting Is Right
Lighting is one of the most important things to get right when you're staging for online listings. Good lighting can make a room feel bigger, brighter, and more inviting.
Tips for great lighting:
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Open up the curtains or blinds to let in as much natural light as possible.
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Turn on all the lights, even during the day, to create a warm atmosphere.
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Use lamps to brighten up darker corners or rooms without many windows.
Great lighting will help your home look more spacious and welcoming in photos and virtual tours.
3. Show Off Your Home’s Best Features
Every home has special features that make it stand out—maybe it’s a cozy fireplace, a beautiful kitchen, or a spacious backyard. Whatever it is, be sure to highlight these features so buyers can see what makes your home unique.
How to highlight key features:
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Arrange the furniture to draw attention to the best parts of the house, like putting seating near a fireplace or a great view.
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If you have a lovely outdoor space, make sure it’s easy to see how the indoors connects with the outside.
The goal is to highlight what makes your home special, whether it’s a specific room, view, or feature.
4. Keep the Decor Simple and Neutral
You want your home to feel like a blank canvas so potential buyers can imagine their own style. Neutral colors help create that vibe and make it easier for everyone to picture themselves in the space.
What to do:
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Stick with neutral tones like whites, grays, and beiges for walls, furniture, and bedding.
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Add small touches, like fresh flowers or simple artwork, to liven up the space without overcrowding it.
A neutral decor style is universally appealing and allows buyers to see the true potential of the home.
5. Think About How Your Home Will Look Online
Since most buyers will see your home online first, it's important to consider how it will look in photos and virtual tours. You want your home to look just as good on a screen as it does in person.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Arrange furniture in a way that makes rooms feel spacious and functional.
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Don’t overcrowd rooms with too much furniture; give the space room to breathe.
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Consider hiring a professional photographer to get the best quality photos.
Good photos and virtual tours are your chance to showcase your home to a wide audience, so it’s worth investing in this part of the process.
6. Create a Cozy, Welcoming Atmosphere
Making your home feel warm and inviting is key to leaving a great impression. A few little touches can make buyers feel like they could settle right in.
Simple ways to enhance the atmosphere:
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Add a few throw pillows and blankets to couches or beds for a cozy vibe.
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Place candles, flowers, or a bowl of fruit to make things feel welcoming.
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If possible, make your home smell nice—fresh flowers, a homemade treat, or subtle air fresheners can help.
These little touches can make a big difference in how buyers feel when they view your home.
Final Thoughts
Staging your home for online listings and virtual tours is more important than ever. By focusing on cleaning, lighting, highlighting key features, and creating a welcoming atmosphere, you can boost your home’s online appeal and attract the right buyers.
If you’re getting ready to sell your home in Auburn or Opelika, feel free to reach out! I’m here to help guide you through the process and make sure you get the best possible results.
Rozi Dover
Your Trusted Real Estate Expert in Auburn and Opelika, Alabama
Phone: +13346630077
Email: rozi@mindspring.com
Website: www.auburn-opelikahomes.com
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