WHEN preparing a home for sale in the summer months, creating an inviting and fresh atmosphere is key to attracting potential buyers. The aim is to showcase the home’s best features, enhance its natural appeal, and ensure that it feels like a cool oasis amid the summer heat. From thoughtful furniture arrangements to subtle sensory touches, here’s how to style your property to make a lasting impression on open day.
REFRESHING INTERIORS: HIRE NEW FURNITURE OR RE-STYLE?
If your current furniture feels dated or doesn’t highlight the home’s best features, hiring new furniture can be a worthwhile investment. A professional home stylist can help select pieces that suit the style of the house, adding a modern touch or emphasising a laid-back coastal feel that is often popular with buyers in Queensland.
Look for lightweight, neutral-colored furniture that matches the airy summer vibe. Rattan chairs, linen-upholstered sofas, and wooden accents are all great choices.
Even if you don’t hire new furniture, a strategic re-style can make a world of difference. Rearrange existing furniture to create open spaces that allow for easy flow between rooms.
Keep layouts simple and avoid crowding rooms with too many pieces –buyers should be able to see themselves moving through the space easily. Minimalist decor, with just a few statement items like large mirrors or a stylish coffee table book, can help make the home feel more expansive.
A FRESH COAT OF PAINT: NECESSARY OR NOT?
A fresh coat of paint can be one of the most effective ways to give your home a clean, updated look.
Neutral tones like whites, light greys, or soft beige can brighten up a space, making rooms feel larger and more welcoming.
Consider repainting rooms that have bold or personalised colors; potential buyers need to visualise their own furniture and decor in the space, and neutral tones create a blank canvas for their imagination.
For the exterior, consider repainting weathered surfaces or refreshing trims to enhance the home’s curb appeal. In Queensland, where summer heat can be intense, light-coloured exterior paint can help reflect heat, keeping the home cooler inside. If a complete repaint isn’t in the budget, a simple touch-up to key areas like the front door can make a significant difference.
OUTDOOR SPACES: GARDENS AND YARDS
A well-maintained yard is crucial for Queensland homes, where outdoor living is highly valued. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and pull out any weeds to ensure a neat and tidy look.
If your garden beds are looking sparse, consider adding some colorful, drought-tolerant plants like agapanthus, bougainvillea, or succulents that will thrive in the summer heat. Potted plants and hanging baskets can also add a vibrant touch to verandas or entryways.
Think about staging your outdoor spaces in a way that highlights their potential for entertaining. Set up a simple outdoor dining area or a few lounge chairs to show how the space can be used for relaxation or gatherings.
Consider adding a few cushions in bright summer shades or an outdoor rug to create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
COOLING COMFORT: MAKE THE HOME FEEL LIKE A SUMMER OASIS
Queensland summers can be sweltering, so it’s important to make your home feel like a cool retreat. On open day, ensure that all ceiling fans and air conditioning units are turned on to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Close curtains or blinds on particularly hot days to block out the sun, but be sure to open them just before the open house to allow natural light to flood in.
Light fabrics like sheer curtains and cotton or linen throws can add a soft, breezy feel to the rooms. You can also add a few coastal-inspired accents like seashells or woven baskets to emphasize the summer theme without overdoing it.
APPEAL TO THE SENSES: FRESH FLOWERS AND SUBTLE SCENTS
Fresh flowers can instantly brighten up any space and add a touch of luxury to your home. Consider adding arrangements of native Australian flowers like banksias or kangaroo paws, which can complement the Queensland aesthetic.
Place them strategically in the living room, kitchen, or entryway to create a welcoming feel as potential buyers walk through the door.
Scent is another powerful tool to create a positive impression. Opt for fresh, clean fragrances like lemon, eucalyptus, or lavender, which evoke a sense of relaxation and refreshment. Avoid overpowering scents that might be off-putting – subtle is best. You can use essential oil diffusers or even a simple bowl of fresh citrus on the kitchen counter to achieve this effect.
FINAL TOUCHES FOR A MEMORABLE OPEN DAY
As you prepare for the open day, remember that small details matter. Declutter countertops, remove personal items, and ensure all rooms are thoroughly cleaned, from floors to windows.
Store away bulky winter items like heavy blankets, and replace them with lighter, summery alternatives.
Make sure any minor repairs are taken care of, such as fixing leaky faucets, replacing light bulbs, or oiling squeaky doors. This shows potential buyers that the home has been well-maintained.
Lastly, add a touch of hospitality. Leave out a pitcher of chilled water with lemon slices or some light snacks for visitors to enjoy during the open day.
It not only makes them feel welcome but also encourages them to linger longer, giving them more time to fall in love with your home.
By focusing on creating a bright, cool, and welcoming atmosphere, you can present your Queensland home in its best light during summer.
