While we would, naturally, always advise anyone selling to engage a stylist, we understand, sometimes, that's just not possible! There is a myriad of reasons why. Currently, COVID-19 has added many more to the list!

Generally though, country properties, for example, can take a long time to sell, compared to city sales, as do beachside holiday homes and while styling companies are popping up regionally, they are few and far between.

Elderly clients are often reluctant or unable to manage emotionally with the necessary upheaval that can be required, the responsibility falling to family, and we understand completely! An extra level of compassion and gentle approach is needed to assist our loved ones through the process. After all, we've all had the same experiences within our own families!

And then, of course, some of you WANT to go it alone! People who have tinkered with their homes for decades, love a bit of DIY or don't have a fixed schedule. We salute you!

"You get out what you put in."

Australian statistics are hard to pin down, sales figures suggest you can expect to receive 7.5%-12.5% more than the initial estimated value of your property and to comparable unstyled properties. Although there are no guarantees in life, this could be hundreds of thousands of dollars!

Even if you don't hire a styling company, it is worth rolling up your sleeves and applying some of our know-how!

So when you're elbow-deep in the oven, cleaning off ten years worth of lasagne splatter, wondering if you really need to do all of this??

Ask yourself; Would I scrub this oven for $100000?

Surely the answer will be...

““Why, yes, I would. And to be perfectly honest, I’d do it for $1000!”
”

Here's our failsafe guide to getting your home ready for market, sans-stylist.

GET IN THE ZONE! YOU'LL NEED A MANTRA

"Clean, fresh, ordered and spacious."

Repeat these words as you work!!

Every time you're wondering "Is this done?" ask whether you can apply these words to the area you're working on.

Clear benches, no visible appliances. Styling by Cooper Robinson.

DECLUTTER

We've said it before, and we'll say it again (and probably again!) declutter. This means; a thorough edit of anything not tied down. Even furniture.

Key areas- Bookshelves, shelving, kitchen benches, desks, bedside tables, pantries and bathrooms.

If your bookshelves are groaning, aim to remove half of the contents. Although romanticised in many a novel, the perfume of old books en-masse, in reality, can smell stale and dusty.

TIP- Start with anything damaged, faded or dogeared.

If you can't bear to permanently part with your treasures, services like Taxibox are a godsend!

#1 HACK- Although it's ideal to declutter every area of the home and do it if you can, at least nail all VISIBLE areas.

Perfectly decluttered shelving. Styling by Cooper Robinson.

CLEAN, CLEAN AND CLEAN AGAIN!

GOAL- Every surface needs to be sparkling clean, mark and dust-free.

Skirting boards, walls, ceiling fan blades, light fittings and most importantly- kitchens, bathrooms and windows.

#1 HACK-If you could only manage to complete one thing on this Blog’s list, then clean it should be!

FRESH PAINT

White walls.

You've heard the term "creating a blank space" we'll this is your goal.

You may have loved that turquoise and burgundy feature wall, but keep in mind, it's not for everyone, and everyone is who you want to appeal to.

TIP- Dulux Natural White is a good allrounder.

Rugs on tiled flooring creates warmth and helps to balance acoustics. Styling by Cooper Robinson. Photo by Northside Studio.

FLOORS

Carpet, we're looking at you!

If your budget can stretch to replacing old carpet, do it. Nothing gives a room more of a GLOW-UP than new carpet. Aim for a mid-range grey, in a simple pile if you're unsure.

Floorboards can usually be repolished easily. Lighter, matte finishes are more desirable. You want to knockout dated yellow, orange and red tones. TIP- Avoid a glossy, high-sheen.

If tiles are your main flooring, they can feel cold and echoey. Consider using a neutral rug under the dining table and in the living room.

RE-THINK YOUR SPACE

In most cases, it's essential to have as many bedrooms set-up as possible. You may know the "study" fits a double bed, but it's always better to SHOW it does.

When your home was initially designed, the architect would have mapped out every area with a purpose, if you've veered off that path, revert back to the plan.

TIP 1- You can ask a friend to tell you how they would configure your house...if it's all become a little too "personalised".

TIP 2- Use our Instagram page as a resource! Look at how we style and copy us. We don't mind!

A considered lay out. Styling by Cooper Robinson.

FRESHEN-UP!

A few purchases are vital. Remember, this shopping actually is an investment, and you'll get to keep everything!

Fresh linen- It doesn't have to be premium quality, just crisp and white!
White towels- At least one for every towel rail
Soap pumps- No one wants to see used, slimy soap clinging to the side of a sink. No one.
Cushions- 2-3 for each sofa and bed. Use existing artwork as a colour guide.
Greenery- fresh flowers or foliage on entrance and dining tables, as a minimum.
Lamps- Essential to lighten and warm dark rooms and spaces. They will make a world of difference!
Quality scented candles- the entrance and main living room are excellent positions.

Fresh, white linen, feature lamps and luxe cushions. Styling by Cooper Robinson. Photo by Dan Schache.

OUTSIDE

Gardens need to look manageable.

Four words- Mow. Prune. Weed. Mulch.

A thorough pressure wash of external walls and areas like paved driveways and paths will transform your home's exterior!

Paining timber fences is INCREDIBLY transformative, dark tones, like Monument by Dulux, will make greenery pop!

TIP- Discard old, worn outdoor furniture. It's honestly better to have nothing than tired things.

REPAIR

Repair any noticeable damage; these are some common offenders...

Wall holes and marks
Broken tiles
Mouldy grout and silicone

Garden goals. Interiors styled by Cooper Robinson.

A QUICK Guide 'Opens'

Ensure your home has been recently aired
Adjust the temperature- not too hot and not too cold
Check foliage and flowers are fresh, discard if not
Walk through each room and adjust as required
Light your candles!

Whether you believe it or not, the fact is; every home has an energy or feeling to it. We know. And we also know that altering the energy of a property is really what we, as stylists, are out to achieve.

We want potential buyers to feel good in a home, to feel thrilled and 'at home'. No, a single cushion or repositioned armchair isn't going to change much at all!

The care and attention you have given (those good vibes!) to every aspect of that home that will tell buyers the different story! It's pretty simple; you want to present them with the start of their exciting new, journey...not the end of yours

Of course, we're always here if you'd like a little more help!