Do you have plates, towels, bath salts, etc. that you ONLY use for special occassions?  I know I do! I usually only use the expensive stuff (or beautiful items we registered for before getting married) for special times, when the in-laws are in town, or holidays!  These things can come in handy when staging your home to sell!

Another way to think of it is, pack everything you wouldn’t take on vacation!  Imagine enjoying a “vacation” in your home, and pack anything you won’t need during the selling season.  If you happen to be staying in a five-star hotel, there would be fine crystal, china and beautiful linens.  Usually there is no clutter left around, and minimal decor.  Choose your best, and most up-to-date items, and part with the rest.  It will save you time later!  You should pack it up, or give away if you no longer need it, find it useful, beautiful or meaningful. Underfurnished houses allow buyer’s to imagine their own items in the home, and thus getting emotionally attached. 😉 

If you’re not sure if your furnishings or accessories are “up-to-date,” tour some model homes in your area.  Notice how things are placed with just enough to make a suggestion of easy, and elegant living.  They usually make it look as if anyone could move right in; that should be your goal when staging your home!

~Erin