Bucks &amp; Oxon


<p>If you’ve ever looked at an interiors picture and had serious house envy, you can bet your bottom dollar a home-staging expert has had a hand in its picture-perfect presentation. You see, there’s an art to making a house ready for sale so it flies off the market – and Bucks expert <a href="https://jessicaconsterdine.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jessica Consterdine</a> is the queen of this stylish business. It involves a bit more than plumping up a few cushions though. So, if you’re making a move, simply follow her 10 top tips to make prospective buyers swoon – and reach for their chequebooks. Thank us later.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-declutter-and-simplify">Declutter and simplify</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="664" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Declutter.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine home staging" class="wp-image-170761" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Declutter.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Declutter-800x531.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Declutter-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>We know you’re proud of your collection of porcelain frogs – but will they help sell your home? It’s unlikely, so start by making like Marie Kondo and giving your home a serious declutter. That means stashing all personal items like family photos, collectibles, and knick-knacks out of sight to magically make your home feel larger and more inviting. Buy under-bed storage boxes if you need to – or even rent a temporary storage unit for larger belongings. It’s what Lok n’Store is for.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-clean-every-corner">Deep-clean every corner</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="671" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Deep-clean-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-170772" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Deep-clean-1.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Deep-clean-1-800x537.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Deep-clean-1-400x268.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>You’ll need to channel your inner Mrs Hinch because a spotless home is essential for making a good first impression. Don your Marigolds and scrub every inch of your des res – including carpets, skirting boards, windows and those tricky hard-to-reach places, like behind the toaster. It’s all about making a buyer feel they could see themselves living in your home, remember – so pay particular attention to kitchens and bathrooms because no-one likes a grubby bidet. Pushed for time? Throw the kitchen sink (and some money) at the problem, and hire a pro. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhance-curb-appeal">Enhance curb appeal</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="665" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Kerb-appeal.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine home staging" class="wp-image-170766" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Kerb-appeal.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Kerb-appeal-800x532.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Kerb-appeal-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Like dating, finding the right match for your home is all about first impressions – the moment a buyer sets foot on your turf they’ll be passing judgement on your property. Here’s your external to-do list: mow the lawn, trim bushes and hedges, plant flowers to add colour, clean driveways, paths and outside walls (consider a power-wash), repaint the front door, shutters and window frames, and fix any broken items, like lights or paving. An attractive exterior sets the tone for the rest of your home – nothing will weed out buyers faster than sad-looking flowerbeds and rusty railings, trust us. Why not add a welcome doormat while you’re about it?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-create-calming-decor">Create calming décor</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="668" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-10-at-10.58.17.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine home staging" class="wp-image-170768" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-10-at-10.58.17.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-10-at-10.58.17-800x534.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-10-at-10.58.17-400x267.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Bright colours have their place – but will your mustard yellow bathroom walls help sell your home? It’s unlikely – so consider giving your home a calming Kelly Hoppen-style pre-sale makeover and redecorate in calming neutrals, which can make a small space feel bigger and brighter and appeal to the majority of buyers’ tastes. Tried and tested hues are beige, white, taupe or light grey. Continue the theme by adding neutral-colored bedding, curtains and rugs to create a cohesive look throughout your home. Serenity incoming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-make-your-spaces-inviting">Make your spaces inviting</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="671" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/InvitingSpaces.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine home staging" class="wp-image-170765" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/InvitingSpaces.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/InvitingSpaces-800x537.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/InvitingSpaces-400x268.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>You want to make a buyer feel they could live in your home – so before viewings, pull on prospective owners’ heartstrings by setting the table with stylish tableware, arranging cozy seating areas, use throws and cushions to add texture and warmth to seating areas, and add plush towels in the bathroom. In the kitchen, set up a coffee station or a tray with a teapot and cups to suggest an aspirational lifestyle. If you’re short on space, multifunctional furniture – like a sofa-bed or a folding dining table that can be tucked away when not in use – are your friends. Ladder bookshelves can add storage and display space without taking up too much floorspace.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-use-mirrors-strategically">Use mirrors strategically</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1001" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Mirrors.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine home staging" class="wp-image-170767" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Mirrors.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Mirrors-800x800.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Mirrors-400x400.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Mirrors-500x500.png 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Mirrors reflect light and make a room feel larger – so use them to your advantage by placing them in strategic spots around your home to reflect light and open up rooms. For example, place a large leaning mirror opposite a window to enhance natural light, or hand a large mirror in a living room or hallway to create the illusion of more space. Mirrors can also highlight a beautiful view or reflect an attractive piece of art. Choose frames that complement your decor and add a touch of elegance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-let-there-be-flattering-light">Let there be flattering light</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="669" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-10-at-11.01.16.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine home staging" class="wp-image-170769" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-10-at-11.01.16.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-10-at-11.01.16-800x535.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Screenshot-2024-09-10-at-11.01.16-400x268.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Good lighting is crucial when you need to create an inviting atmosphere: use a mix of ambient, task and accent lighting to create a warm and welcoming ambience. Replace outdated light fixtures with modern ones to give your home an updated look, add lamps to dark corners, and make sure all light bulbs are working. Outdated or fussy light fittings can be off-putting – so replace them with modern ones so they don’t distract from the overall impression. When viewers are looking round your home, open curtains and blinds fully to let in as much natural light as possible.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-highlight-your-home-s-best-features">Highlight your home’s best features</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="665" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Highlightkey-features.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine home staging" class="wp-image-170764" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Highlightkey-features.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Highlightkey-features-800x532.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Highlightkey-features-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Arrange furniture to highlight the best features of each room and create a natural flow through your home.&nbsp;If you have a large window with a great view, make sure it is not obstructed by furniture or heavy drapes. Show off the fireplace by arranging seating around it. If your home is open-plan, use rugs to define different areas – or position furniture to create ‘zones’ that separate the living area from the dining space or home office space. The trick is to allow buyers to see the full potential of each space.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-add-flower-power">Add flower power</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="910" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Greenery-910x1000.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine home staging" class="wp-image-170763" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Greenery-910x1000.png 910w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Greenery-728x800.png 728w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Greenery-364x400.png 364w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/Greenery.png 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 910px) 100vw, 910px" /></figure>



<p>No-one’s saying you need to make your home feel like a jungle but adding greenery can make a small space feel fresh and vibrant – plus plants will improve the air quality and smell good too. Fill vases with fresh flowers or buy some low-maintenance indoor plants. The good news is you don’t have to be Monty Don – if you lack green fingers, check out these ‘unkillable’ house plants from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beardsanddaisies.co.uk/collections/unkillable-houseplants">Beards and Daisies</a>. Minimal watering required – but do change the water in your vases regularly as wilting blooms aren’t a good look.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stage-the-outdoors">Stage the outdoors</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="671" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/StageOutdoors.png" alt="Jessica Consterdine Home Staging" class="wp-image-170770" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/StageOutdoors.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/StageOutdoors-800x537.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/StageOutdoors-400x268.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>If you have a small balcony, backyard or patio, stage it as an outdoor living space to show potential buyers the extra living space. You can create an inviting outdoor living space by using comfortable seating or setting up an outdoor grill or BBQ. Add outdoor cushions, a rug and some potted plants and voila! The space will feel like an extension of your home. Hey, mow the lawn while you’re about it. No-one wants to feel they’ll spend all their downtime tackling weeds.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong><em>Looking to stage your home for a quick sale? Contact&nbsp;<a href="https://jessicaconsterdine.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jessica Consterdine Home Staging</a>&nbsp;for professional assistance.</em></strong></p>


Sold! How to style up your home to make buyers swoon

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