Should You Fix It or Leave It? A Guide to Prepping Your Home for Sale

When you’re preparing your home for sale, you obviously want your property to look its best for buyers. That means fixing things that are broken, and, possibly, making a few improvements.
But, how do you decide whether to invest in fixing or improving something versus just leaving it as is?
Say, for example, the walls throughout your home are a bit faded. (They’ve gone through a lot of living!) You can get all the dents and holes filled and repaint the entire place. That would definitely make a huge difference in how your property looks to buyers. Or, you can choose NOT to do that project in the hopes your home will “show” well regardless.
There are a few things to consider before making that decision:
- How much will the fix or improvement cost?
- How much better will your home look to buyers?
- Will the fix or improvement help sell your home faster?
- Will the fix or improvement help sell your home for a higher price?
Once you have those answers, you’ll be in a much better position to make that decision.
By the way, painting is almost always a smart move when preparing your property for sale. The impact can be dramatic, and the cost is relatively low.
Related: Instant Home Improvement: Budget-Friendly Tips for a Fresh Look
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? Contact me today for a complimentary property valuation!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
Elevate Your Home’s Appeal: Staging Tips for Every Room

Whether you’re gearing up to sell or simply craving a fresh look, staging is your golden ticket to creating an atmosphere that captivates potential buyers or guests alike. From the welcoming embrace of the foyer to the serene oasis of the bedroom, every space plays a crucial role in shaping the overall impression of your home. Let’s dive into staging tips tailored for each room:
Foyer
First impressions are everything, and your foyer sets the stage for what’s to come. Start by decluttering the space to allow for easy movement and a sense of openness. A statement mirror or artwork can add depth and visual interest. Don’t forget to illuminate the area with strategic lighting to create an inviting ambiance.
Living Room
The heart of the home, your living room should exude comfort and style. Begin by arranging furniture to promote conversation and flow. Plump up cushions and add throw blankets for a cozy touch. Fresh flowers or greenery breathe life into the space, while tasteful accessories like coffee table books or decorative trays add personality without overwhelming.
Kitchen
A well-staged kitchen can be a major selling point. Clear countertops of unnecessary clutter to showcase ample workspace. Invest in high-quality, matching appliances to create a cohesive look. A bowl of fresh fruit or a vase of flowers adds a pop of color and freshness. Consider staging baked goods to evoke the warmth of family gatherings.
Dining Room
Whether hosting intimate dinners or extravagant feasts, your dining room should embody sophistication and hospitality. Start by dressing the table with elegant linens and dinnerware. A statement chandelier or pendant light can elevate the ambiance. Set the scene with candles or a floral centerpiece to create an inviting atmosphere that begs to be enjoyed.
Bedroom
A serene and tranquil bedroom is essential for relaxation and rejuvenation. Make the bed the focal point with luxurious bedding and plenty of pillows. Keep decor minimal and cohesive to promote a sense of serenity. Soft lighting, such as bedside lamps or string lights, creates a cozy ambiance. Consider adding a seating area or reading nook for added functionality and charm.
Bathroom
Transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat reminiscent of a spa getaway. Declutter countertops and invest in quality towels and bath mats in soothing hues. Incorporate calming scents through candles or essential oil diffusers. Fresh flowers or potted plants add a touch of nature’s tranquility. Don’t forget to ensure all fixtures are sparkling clean and in good repair.
Outdoor Spaces
Finally, don’t overlook the potential of your outdoor spaces. Whether it’s a sprawling backyard or a cozy balcony, staging these areas can significantly enhance your home’s appeal. Arrange outdoor furniture to create inviting conversation areas. Add pops of colour with vibrant cushions or potted plants. Consider setting the scene with ambient lighting or a crackling fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars.
The Importance of Staging
Staging is the secret weapon to maximizing your home’s potential and leaving a lasting impression on potential buyers or guests. By implementing these staging tips tailored for each room, you’ll elevate your home’s appeal and create an atmosphere that’s sure to charm and captivate. Remember, the key is to strike a balance between style and functionality, allowing potential buyers or guests to envision themselves living their best life in your space. Happy staging!
As your REALTOR®, I offer complimentary staging to ensure your property shines its brightest. Let me help you unlock the true value of your real estate.
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? Call today for a complimentary property valuation!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
Setting Emotions Aside When Selling

Imagine shopping for a used car. You find one that you like and while negotiating the price, the seller gets sentimental. He shares happy memories of family picnics, his kids’ soccer games and other adventures with the vehicle. Then he demands a higher price. After all, he couldn’t possibly part with it for anything less.
Are you likely to pay for his sentimental value? Probably not. Yet the same thing often happens when selling a home.
It’s normal for homeowners to form an emotional attachment to their property. It can be very difficult to watch their home being treated as a product with a price tag, and watch buyers stand in the living room discussing furniture arrangements. Emotions can get in the way of a sale. It can even cause some sellers to stay firm on a high price, when a reasonable offer within market value is received.
After all, as they say, ‘Home is where the heart is.’ So, when it’s time to sell your property, think about all the ways you will take your happy memories with you. Then, focus on selling for the best price within the current market conditions.
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? Let me help you find the true value in your real estate. Call today for a complimentary property valuation!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca
Cleaning Tips for Instantly Improving Curb Appeal

As you may know, curb appeal refers to how your property looks from the street, where potential buyers first see it. Your home’s curb appeal can have a big impact on the sale of your property.
In fact, it’s not uncommon for a buyer to drive by a listing, rather than stop, because they don’t like what they see.
So, how can you improve your home’s curb appeal quickly? One way is to do some outside cleaning.
Start with the main entryway. Wash down the front door and sweep (or power wash) the front steps. It only takes a few minutes, but you’d be surprised by the impact it can have. Sweep or power wash your walkway too and you’ll improve the overall look of your home — sometimes dramatically.
Clean your front windows to brighten the look of your home’s facade. It doesn’t have to be an arduous chore. In fact, there are washing products available that attach to your garden hose. You don’t even need a ladder! Ask your local home improvement retailer for recommendations.
If you have hedges and shrubs, give them a trim. To keep your trimming level, use a wide board, or even a piece of cardboard, then cut to the desired height. Pull off any dead leaves or branches. Of course, also mow the lawn!
Finally, inspect your property from the street. Can you see anything else you can do to quickly improve the look? Do you notice anything that is unsightly or distracting, such as garbage bins that could be relocated?
Related: What Buyers Want to See when They Walk into a Room
Looking to buy, sell, or invest? Let me help you find the true value in your real estate. Call today for a complimentary property valuation!
For more information, contact:
Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca