🏠 Side Door - Home Staging Checklist

Your home only gets one first impression. This checklist is created to help you get your home market-ready.

Curb Appeal (Exterior First Impressions)

☐ Power wash siding, porches, and sidewalks
☐ Mow lawn, trim bushes, edge walkways
☐ Add a new welcome mat and seasonal plants
☐ Repaint or touch up front door and trim
☐ Clean all outdoor light fixtures and house numbers
☐ Store away toys, tools, hoses, and garbage bins

Whole House Preparation

☐ Declutter every space—less is more
☐ Deep clean from top to bottom
☐ Remove personal photos and highly specific décor
☐ Neutralize color palette with soft, warm tones
☐ Use consistent style and tone across rooms
☐ Open blinds and use natural light where possible
☐ Use mirrors to create light and space

Living Room

☐ Limit furniture to 3–5 essential pieces
☐ Create clear traffic flow and conversational seating
☐ Use a rug to define the space
☐ Add throw pillows in neutral or seasonal tones
☐ Style coffee tables with a “rule of 3” (books, tray, candle or plant)
☐ Remove cluttered cords and remotes

Kitchen

☐ Clear counters of everything but 1–2 decorative items
☐ Organize and clean inside drawers and cabinets
☐ Display fresh fruit or a simple plant for life
☐ Add a neutral runner rug if space allows
☐ Remove fridge magnets, calendars, personal notes

Bedrooms

☐ Make beds hotel-style with layered neutral bedding
☐ Limit furniture to essentials only
☐ Use matching lamps and nightstands if possible
☐ Tuck away laundry baskets, chargers, and personal items
☐ Add a soft throw or accent pillows for visual warmth

Bathrooms

☐ Replace personal hygiene items with white or neutral towels
☐ Clear vanities completely (1–2 styled items max)
☐ Hang a clean, fresh shower curtain
☐ Add a small plant or rolled towels for spa feel
☐ Ensure toilet seats are closed and everything is spotless

Bonus Spaces (Laundry Room, Home Office, Etc.)

☐ Make each space serve one clear purpose
☐ Add baskets or bins for organized storage
☐ Stage with simple, functional touches (e.g. notebook, lamp, plant)
☐ Avoid overly themed or gimmicky setups

Final Staging Touches

☐ Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature
☐ Light a subtle candle or use a diffuser (vanilla, citrus, or linen scents)
☐ Turn on lights in all rooms for showings
☐ Play soft instrumental music for ambiance (if desired)
☐ Leave a printed info sheet or brochure out for visitors