Last Updated on January 7, 2024 by Vannessa Rhoades, Three Bears Home Staging
When it comes to selling a house, staging is a crucial step in the process. It can make all the difference in how quickly and efficiently the sale goes through. But what about staging your garage? Buyers typically don’t spend a lot of time focused on the garage, and it’s usually not photographed for the listing. As such, it’s generally not considered a “high priority” area when it comes to prepping for a home sale. That said, a well-staged garage can be just as appealing to potential buyers as any other room in the house. Let’s take a look at a few tips for how to stage your garage effectively.
1. Reduce and Simplify
The first step in staging your garage is to clear out any clutter that may have accumulated over the years. This means you’ll need to get rid of any items no longer needed or used. It’s also a good idea to donate or sell any items that are still in good condition but no longer serve a purpose in your life.
2. Organize
Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, it’s time to organize what’s left. Make sure everything has a designated place and that it’s easy to find. This will make your garage look cleaner and more spacious, which is important to potential buyers.
3. Clean
Before you start to stage your garage, give it a thorough cleaning. Sweep the floors, dust the shelves, and wipe down any surfaces that need it. A clean garage is much more appealing than a dirty one.
4. Improve the Lighting
Adequate lighting is crucial for any garage. Brighter lighting can help make your garage more inviting and functional. Look for extra bright bulbs, at least 900 lumens or greater (some manufacturers describe this level of brightness as “75-watt-equivalent” when it comes to LEDs or other energy-efficient bulbs) For more details, read our article on how to choose the right light bulb.
5. Paint
If your garage is looking a bit drab, a fresh coat of paint can do wonders. Choose a light color that will make the space feel brighter and more inviting. This will help potential buyers see the potential in the space.
6. Upgrade the Flooring
Garage floors are often made of concrete, which can be cold, dull, and prone to cracking. At the very least, sweep it clean and be sure it’s free of any stains or spills. If you’ve got the time and the budget, you may want to consider upgrading your flooring with an epoxy coating or interlocking tiles. Not only will this make your garage look better, but it will also provide a more durable and slip-resistant surface. We like this DIY kit from Rust-Oleum.
7. Utilize Storage Solutions
Investing in some garage storage solutions can go a long way in making it look organized and well-staged. Garage shelving units, pegboards, and tool racks are all great options. They make it easy to find what you need, add to the overall appeal of the space, and add to your visual square footage (all things homebuyers love).
8. Upgrade the Garage Door Opener
Consider upgrading an outdated or noisy garage door opener to a newer model. Not only will this make your garage more functional, but it can also increase your home’s security and perceived value.
9. Highlight the Potential
Finally, it’s important to highlight the potential of your garage. If you have a workbench, make sure it’s clean and organized with some tools on display. If you have a washer and dryer out there, make sure they’re clean and in good working condition. Staging little details in your garage can go a long way in making it look like a valuable part of the home.
Need Help Preparing for a Sale? Get In Touch With Us!
Does a nice garage add value to your home? Not necessarily – but it can definitely increase desirability among homebuyers. With a little extra effort, you can stage your garage to be a more appealing part of your home that potential buyers won’t want to overlook. Three Bears Home Staging can help you get started! Take a look below at how we’re helping homeowners all over the country.
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Vannessa Rhoades
Vannessa Rhoades is the author of Just Right! Easy DIY Home Staging and the founder of the award-winning firm, Three Bears Home Staging®. She specializes in providing positive, empowering virtual consultations that help homeowners and real estate agents all across the country sell more quickly and for more money.
