So, you have made the big decision to sell!

From a design point of view, what steps can you take to ensure your home is seen in the best possible light while keeping spending to a minimum? Where do you start?

Once you are clutter free, put yourself in the buyer’s shoes. Stand back & take a good hard look at the home. What would be your first impressions?

Are the walls in good order or could they use a coat of paint?

Does the colour scheme actually work or seem a little bland or mismatched?

It is no secret, a freshly painted home will convey the “I am well looked after” vibe to potential buyers. But what colours should you look at if you decide to repaint?

Neutrals will appeal to a wide cross section of buyers as they will be able to picture their belongings in the space. That doesn’t mean you need to stick to whites, greys or creams. There are many beautiful “greyed off” colours which are considered neutrals.



Subtle grey-greens, grey-blues & earthy naturals also fall into this category. They are soft & easy to live with, plus have an added bonus of visually expanding the space if used in lighter tones.

How is the lighting? Is it dated or perhaps just need a clean?

Depending on the condition of the remainder of the house,a quick changeover of pendants may add to the style factor. It is worth checking out some of the lovely pendants available at local lighting suppliers & having a chat to your electrician to gauge changeover costs before embarking on this.

Placing a few lovely lamps in strategic places will also add to

the style & atmosphere!

Consider the current spatial plan of the home.

Do you have an unused room which if “staged” could make the home appeal to a wider range of buyers? An example here could be a 4th bedroom repurposed as an office – especially relevant now with more people working from home! Or perhaps you have an unused sunroom which could be set up as a cosy reading nook or parent’s retreat.

Ensure living areas are zoned correctly.

Often, lounges are placed against the walls, around the room, the walk zone through the middle of the room. Consider bringing the lounge furniture off the walls & arranging into “chat” zones, with walk zones around as opposed to through. This can actually make the room feel larger, more attractive & user friendly.

Maximise light.
Light airy spaces are very attractive, both from a wellbeing point of view,

as well as visually expanding the space. Dated window coverings & heavy

curtains can inhibit the amount of light entering a space. Consider replacing

these with lovely soft floor length sheer curtains for filtered light & a roller

blind for night time privacy. The effect will be surprising!



Roman blinds in an earthy textured fabric are another great alternative

window dressing. As to shutters, which will enhance our coastal lifestyle.

Adding a large mirror is also a great tool to increase the amount of reflective

light & space in a room. Either wall mounted or “leaner” style.

Flooring – ensure carpets are freshly cleaned, timber & tiled floors well maintained. Adding a floor rug to a timber or tiled floor will help zone & cosy up the space, while helping dampen any acoustic / noise problems which may exist. Choose a colour to complement the space or a natural, organic jute floor rug which can be of service in your next home.

Once you have addressed all of the main issues, it is time to look at your final presentation & styling.

• In terms of wall decoration, does the existing artwork or print complement each room? Are they the correct scale/size for the wall & colour for the room? If not, perhaps experiment with swapping artworks between rooms or keep a look out for a print which may be more suitable in size & colour.
• When it comes to soft furnishings & bedding, stick to your chosen colour palette, whether it be layered neutrals or a complementary colour scheme & keep it simple. No need to go overboard or you will clutter up the space!
• Scents help to create ambience & a homely atmosphere. Infusers & candles are a brilliant way of conveying this. Freshly baked goodies also a great idea, if you have time………!
• Well cared for plants, fresh flowers, a bowl of fresh pears will also add welcome colour & style to a home.

My last tip when marketing your home?

Stay organised! Often easier said than done - as let’s face it, we are all busy! But a few strategically placed folders, wicker storage baskets, a shoe storage box beside the front door etc will keep the home tidy & reduce any visual clutter that may creep in from time to time.



And if you are totally overwhelmed?

Enlist the help of a Stylist / Designer. It may only take 1 consultation to get you on the right track & will be money well spent!