Posted by: Karim Ali
Coffee with Karim
5 min read
Selling your home in Ottawa? Decluttering and staging can make the difference between a quick sale and weeks of frustration. Buyers decide fast – often within the first minute – so a clean, staged space helps your home stand out. Here’s how to do it without losing your mind.
Why Decluttering and Staging Matter
First impressions are everything. A cluttered space makes rooms look smaller and distracts buyers from what they’re really there to see: the home. Staging, meanwhile, helps buyers picture themselves living there. Think of it as setting the stage for their story, not yours.
- Decluttering = removing distractions.
- Staging = adding polish to highlight your home’s best features.
Together, they boost buyer appeal and often lead to higher offers.
Step 1: Start Small and Simple
Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to tackle the whole house in one go. Start with:
- Kitchen counters (clear them completely except one or two items)
- Entryway (remove extra shoes, coats, mail)
- Living room surfaces (limit décor to a few neutral pieces)
This makes the biggest impact early on and builds momentum.
Step 2: Focus on High-Impact Areas
Not every room needs a full staging job, but some matter more than others. Pay extra attention to:
- Living room: Keep it bright, open, and inviting.
- Kitchen: Clean surfaces, neutral décor, fresh towels.
- Primary bedroom: Crisp bedding, clutter-free nightstands.
- Bathrooms: Clear counters, fresh towels, a simple plant or candle.
Step 3: Think Like a Buyer
When in doubt, ask: “Does this add to the home’s value, or is it just my style?”
- Family photos → box them up.
- Bold paint colours → consider repainting in a neutral shade.
- Large furniture → if it makes the room feel small, store it off-site.
Buyers want to see space and possibilities, not distractions.
Step 4: Affordable Staging Hacks
You don’t need to hire a designer to make your home look great. Try:
- Swapping in white or neutral bedding and towels.
- Using baskets to hide toys, remotes, or pet gear.
- Adding a few plants to bring life and freshness.
- Using mirrors to reflect light and make rooms feel bigger.
Step 5: Professional Staging vs. DIY
In some cases, a professional stager is worth the investment, especially for high-end homes or vacant properties. For most sellers, though, following these decluttering and staging basics will go a long way. A good Realtor will often include a staging consultation in their listing services (I do this with my clients here in Ottawa).
Keep it Simple
Decluttering and staging don’t have to be overwhelming. By starting small, focusing on key areas, and using simple tricks, you’ll make your Ottawa home shine. Buyers will be able to imagine themselves living there – and that’s what sells homes.
Ready to list your Ottawa home? I include a staging consultation and marketing plan designed to make your sale smooth and stress-free. Let’s chat about how to get started.
2 More Things
1
Pre-Pack to Get Ahead
Think of decluttering as starting your move early. Box up seasonal clothes, rarely used kitchen items, and knick-knacks. Store them neatly in the basement, garage, or a rented locker. It’s less stressful on moving day, and your home looks bigger during showings.
2
Don’t Forget Smell and Sound
A staged home isn’t just about looks. Fresh, neutral scents (avoid heavy air fresheners) and soft background music can set the mood. Subtle details go a long way in making buyers feel comfortable.
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