Statistics show first impressions occur within seconds of entering a home (2009 Canadian Staging Professionals Research). Up to five areas of your home can be seen from your front entry, this is why it’s important to have clear sight lines to each space. Here’s how to impress home buyers in less than 10 seconds.

Move large obstructions, such as benches or over-sized vases out of the foyer. Depersonalize your home by pre-packing any personal items such as family photos, keepsakes, collections, valuables as well as anything not being used on a daily basis. Give your home a heavy duty clean, tackle any unfinished repairs and ensure distinct scents such as food, pets, smoke and harsh cleaners are not present.

By de-cluttering, depersonalizing, reducing, repairing and cleaning you are communicating to your prospective buyers that your home has been well maintained and is move-in ready. Leave them with a lasting impression as they open the front door.

References: The Canadian Staging Professional Program. Certified Staging Professional Resource Manual (2010). Section 1, Page 15
Images: iStock Photo (August 4, 2010)

What a beautiful fall we are having this year, it is almost making up for the rainy summer.

Especially if you are selling your home, it’s time to rake up all of those beautiful leaves on a regular basis, you don’t want your home to look unkept. Don’t throw them out with your regular garbage though, The City of Calgary has a leaf and pumpkin composting program. To find out your designated drop off location, check out this map.