When it comes to selling your Waterloo Region home, first impressions are everything. The way you present your home can make a big difference in how quickly it sells and for how much.
One of the key factors in creating an attractive and welcoming environment is the effective use of colour. While bold colours may be appealing to some people, it's best to stick with neutral colours that appeal to a wider range of buyers.
In this article, we'll go over the importance of neutral colours in home staging and how to incorporate them into your space for a successful sale, as well as offer some expert painting tips for those who want to tackle the task themselves.
Why Neutrals For Home Staging?
Home stagers - and real estate agents - usually recommend sticking to neutral colours for several very good reasons:
Appeal to a wider range of buyers: Neutral colours are generally more universally appealing and can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the home. Bright or bold colours may be off-putting to some buyers and could distract from the features of the home.
Create a clean, fresh canvas: Neutral colours create a blank slate that can help highlight the architectural features of a home, such as crown moulding or high ceilings. It can also create a bright and fresh canvas for potential buyers to imagine their own furniture and décor.
Allow for versatility: Neutral colours can work with a variety of styles and can easily be updated with different accessories or accent colours. This allows potential buyers to envision how their own personal style would fit in the home.
Avoid personal taste: Bold colours and unique patterns can be very personal and may not appeal to everyone. By using neutral colours, home stagers can avoid potential turn-offs for buyers who may have different tastes.
Emphasise natural light: Neutral colours can reflect natural light better, making a space feel brighter and more spacious. This can create a more welcoming and inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.
Overall, sticking to neutral colours can help create a universally appealing and versatile space that will attract more potential buyers and make it easier for them to envision themselves living in the home.
Top Home Staging Neutrals for 2023
White
White is a classic neutral colour that can make any space feel clean, bright, and spacious. It's also versatile and can be paired with a variety of other colours and styles.
Beige
Beige is a warm, inviting colour that can create a cosy atmosphere in any room. It's also a great alternative to white if you want a slightly warmer colour palette.
Grey
Grey is a sophisticated neutral colour that can create a modern and stylish look in your home. It's a popular choice for home staging as it provides a clean, neutral background that can be dressed up with accessories and pops of colour.
Taupe
Taupe is a warm, earthy colour that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. It's a great choice for creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere.
Cream
Cream is a soft, warm colour that can make any room feel cosy and welcoming. It's also a great alternative to white if you want a slightly warmer colour palette.
Greige
Greige is a combination of grey and beige, creating a warm, neutral colour that's perfect for home staging. It's a versatile colour that can work in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional.
Ivory
Ivory is a warm, creamy colour that can make any room feel elegant and sophisticated. It's a great choice for creating a classic, timeless look in your home.
Mushroom
Mushroom is a warm, earthy colour that can add a touch of depth and richness to your home. It's a great choice for creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere in living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
Pewter
Pewter is a cool, neutral colour that can create a modern and sophisticated look in your home. It's a great choice for creating a minimalist, contemporary style.
DIY Painting Tips When Staging Your Waterloo Region Home for Sale
The fact is that painting is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to refresh your home and get it ready for sale. Not only can it update the look of a room, but it can also help to create a clean and fresh canvas for potential buyers to admire, allowing them to see your home as their future home.
However, painting can also be a daunting task for many homeowners, especially if they're not sure where to start. Here are some DIY painting tips when staging your home for sale.
Test the colour
Before you start painting the entire room, it's important to test the colour first. Paint a very small section of the wall and allow it to dry before making a final decision. This will help you see how the colour looks in different lighting and how it complements the other elements in the room.
Most paint stores still offer those tiny sample cans that will allow you to test a colour before you commit to it, but if those are not available, taking home paint chips and then taping them to the wall can provide a reasonably good alternative.
Prep the walls
Proper preparation is key to achieving a professional-looking paint job. Start by cleaning the walls with soap and water to remove any dirt or grime. Fill in any holes or cracks with spackle and sand down any rough spots.
Finally, use painter's tape to protect the trim, ceiling, and other areas you don't want to get paint on. The last thing you want as a busy homeseller is to have to spend hours trying to get rid of stray paint splashes!
Use high-quality tools
Investing in high-quality painting tools can make a big difference in the final outcome. Use a high-quality brush for cutting in and a roller with a nap appropriate for your surface. A cheap brush or roller can leave brush marks or uneven coverage, so don't skimp on your tools.
Use the right technique
When painting, use the right technique to achieve a smooth and even finish. Start by cutting in around the edges with a brush and then use a roller to fill in the rest of the wall. Apply paint in a "W" pattern and then go back over it in a "V" pattern to ensure even coverage. Don't press too hard on the roller, as this can create drips or roller marks.
Allow for adequate drying time
Allow the paint to dry completely before adding a second coat or removing the painter's tape. Rushing the process can result in a messy and uneven finish. Check the paint can for drying times and humidity recommendations.
Address any imperfections
After the paint has dried, inspect the walls for any imperfections. Use touch-up paint to correct any missed areas or fix any drips or brush marks. It's important to address these imperfections before potential buyers come through the home.
Consider hiring a professional
If you're not confident in your painting skills or simply don't have the time to devote to a DIY project, consider hiring a professional. They have the expertise, tools, and knowledge to get the job done quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your home looks its best for potential buyers.
Speaking of professionals, don't let the stress of buying or selling a home overwhelm you. Hire an expert Waterloo Region real estate agent who knows the market inside and out.
With our expertise and guidance, you can navigate the process with ease and confidence. Contact Team Pinto today to get started on your journey towards finding your dream home or selling your current one.
