When you put your home on the market, your goal is to sell it quickly and for the most amount of money possible. Properly staging your home will create an amazing first impression that will generate a huge buzz!

Staging isn't so much an expense as it is an investment. Not only is your home likely to sell for a higher price but it will probably sell much faster which is important because homes that sit on the market for too long can generate an irreversible stigma which diminishes its value.

Staging starts with an ultra-clean, de-cluttered and de-personalized home. Buying a home is an emotional decision, so it’s important that buyers are able to envision themselves living in your home which is why photographs, trophies and kids' artwork have to go.

A professional stager also ensures your home is inviting to buyers by enhancing the functionality and flow of each room. They can remove and store furniture so the house looks as spacious as possible and also use lighting and other tricks to warm up the feel of your home.

A properly staged home will also look much more appealing to those who are browsing homes online, which will in turn help to generate more showings and create more demand.

If you want to try and stage your home yourself, you'll need to go beyond the basics but start by cleaning your home inside and out including the front yard, the porch, the garage and the back garden.

Buyers have a tough time visualizing themselves in unfurnished rooms so turn your craft room back into a bedroom or transform an awkward nook into a reading spot by setting out a comfy chair and nice lamp to give it a comfortable feel.

Buyers will also be snooping through your cupboards and closets as storage space is usually an important factor so don’t forget to stage those areas as well.

A well-staged home is much more likely to make a great first impression and capture the hearts of homebuyers.

Whether you pay a professional to stage your home or do the work yourself, staging is a worthwhile investment that will massively increase the odds of your home selling quickly and for top dollar!