What does a kitten snuggling a well-loved stuffed animal have to do with selling houses? Believe it or not, inspiration! By staging with a retro vibe, can’t you imagine a hip, independent cat lover living in this casual feeling condo? Targeted to a first time property buyer, this condo is staged to sell.
 

I admit it, I’m a cat lover! And when I saw this picture on Pinterest I couldn’t help but be overcome with “Awwwww.” Looking at it just makes you feel warm and fuzzy. The retro filter used on the photo takes you back to your own fond childhood memories of days when you felt safe and comforted and free.
 

So why not try to create a similar feeling in a property? This condo we staged in Calgary’s Renfrew Regal Terrace already had vintage feeling tiles and cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom that the seller chose not to change.
 

Rather than try to hide them or make them stand out more by going overly modern in all the staging furnishings, we chose staging with a retro vibe to complement them. It’s a way to help potential buyers see that expensive renovations are not necessary right away (even if they prefer to do them in the future when they can afford it).
 

Inspiration can come from anywhere. When you focus on the feeling that you experience, it can lead you in any direction you choose. For the right potential buyer, staging with a retro vibe might be what speaks to their heart and makes your property feel like memories of home.
 

For more staging inspiration, check out the various boards we have at Set Your Stage on Pinterest.
 

Those of you who have been reading the Set Your Stage blog know that we’re on Pinterest too. I wanted to let you know that the board, DIY Home Improvement, is where I add helpful tips and inspiration for when it’s time to prepare your home for sale (or even update your home for you!). Check it out to spark some useful ideas you can use in your own property.
 

What other boards will you find on the Set Your Stage Pinterest page?
 

Cleaning & De-cluttering: When you’re staging your home for sale, of course a thorough cleaning is a must-do at the top of your priority list.
 

Upcycle Projects: Whether it’s how to, or what colour, I’ve got ideas for you.
 

Inspirational Rooms: Interesting configurations, materials you might not have considered, and outdoor rooms.
 

DIY Home Improvement: Everyone has a budget and I respect that.
 

Selling Tips: Ideas to try in your own space in order to present your property at its best.
 

There are so many creative tips and ideas for the home on Pinterest, have fun with it. As I often say, inspiration can come from anywhere. It’s knowing what to do with it, especially when staging your home to sell, that’s the more tricky part!
 

For more staging inspiration, check out the various boards we have at Set Your Stage on Pinterest.
 

Home staging lighting can make the difference between a property that feels dark and old or modern and bright. It’s not hard to imagine which one potential buyers prefer. Some simple changes in lighting can make a big difference in how your property is perceived and, as a result, how quickly it will get sold.
 

Pinterest provides me with all sorts of home staging inspiration. I’ve written before about the four types of lighting that should be considered when staging: ambient, task, accent, and decorative.
 

This time I want to show some creative examples of how to make an impact with lighting.
 

Have you ever walked into an average room but noticed AND remembered a beautiful or unique overhead light? That’s the point when staging. You want potential buyers to notice something special and remember it because that’s what will set your property apart from other listings.
 

• For example, in the right property, imagine the impact this vintage mason jar light would create over a kitchen island or a bar in a games room.

 

• And you might not consider it, but a pantry or closet is an excellent place to create impact with lighting. Here’s a DIY track light that is practical and attractive.

 

• What about those old bathroom vanity strip lights? Give them a quick update with a custom shade.

 

Of course, for maximum benefit, you want to ensure that the lighting you choose reflects the potential buyers’ desired lifestyle. It’s one of the many ways that you can benefit from the help of a professional home stager.
 

For more staging inspiration, check out the various boards we have at Set Your Stage on Pinterest.
 

You may be wondering, does size really matter in the bedroom? When it comes to staging, go big by adding a king size bed (if you have the space). More and more people want the added comfort that a larger bed provides. King size staging offers potential buyers the feel of the ideal lifestyle they desire.
 

In large bedrooms, it’s important to stage with balance in mind. You want to create a feeling of comfort while at the same time leaving plenty of open space. The size of furniture you choose should reflect the size of room. Big room, big bed. Otherwise, it feels awkward.
 

We staged these two different bedrooms with similar furniture and approaches. The same king size bed and headboard was used. Notice that it is flanked by bedside tables, artwork, and lamps to create a grounded focal point in the room.
 

To add to the sense of balance and highlight the spaciousness of the room, we placed a chair to create a reading area by the window. In the more recent property we staged in Royal Oak, instead of additional furniture, we placed a tall plant in the corner.
 

Similarly, artwork was used to draw the eye, create balance, and add to the calm feel we wanted to instill when a potential buyer walked into the spaces.
 

Blues, golds, and beige tones were used in both rooms to add to the light, airy and calm feel you would expect in a bedroom retreat. Dark tones in the furniture ground the space, adding to the balanced feeling of light and dark.
 

In staging, yes, size does matter! Want more inspiration for king size staging and more? Check out the Set Your Stage ‘Bedrooms After Home Staging’ board on Pinterest.