As real estate agents, selling a home during the fall season—especially near Halloween—can be tricky. And while a spooky haunted house may be a hit for trick-or-treaters, it’s not the vibe you want when showing a home to potential buyers. Here’s how to help your sellers stage their homes for sale by removing the things that might send buyers running for the door. Here are 12 common “scary” elements to eliminate:

1. Unpleasant Odors 

A house that smells like last week’s dinner or musty carpets can be a big turn-off. Encourage sellers to ask for a second opinion—a friend, neighbor, or even you as their agent—to do a sniff test. Professional cleaning and fresh paint may be needed to eliminate lingering smells.

2. Signs of Smoking 

Evidence of smoking inside the home, like ashtrays or nicotine stains, can easily scare away non-smokers. Ensure all smoking paraphernalia is tucked away, and recommend professional cleaning of carpets, drapes, and upholstery to remove lingering smoke odors.

3. Pets and Their Belongings  

As much as we love our pets, potential buyers might not feel the same way. Have your clients remove their pets from the house before showings and hide pet items like bowls, toys, and litter boxes. Deep cleaning to remove pet odors is also essential.

4. Pests  

Nothing sends buyers fleeing faster than spotting a roach or ants. If your seller has a pest issue, advise them to hire an exterminator before the house goes on the market.

5. Clutter  

Clutter is more than unsightly—it gives the impression that the home doesn’t have enough space. Guide your sellers in decluttering and organizing their homes, including removing children’s toys and keeping surfaces clear.

6. Medications 

All medications should be securely locked away for safety and privacy. This protects both the sellers and visitors during showings.

7. Taxidermy  

As much as your seller might treasure their mounted animal collection, it’s wise to advise them to remove these items while the house is on the market. They can be distracting and off-putting to potential buyers.

8. Firearms 

All firearms should be safely locked away and out of sight. If possible, suggest they store them elsewhere during the listing period. Many buyers will find the sight of firearms unsettling, especially those with children.

9. Weird Collectibles  

Quirky or eccentric collections, no matter how cherished by your seller, can divert attention away from the home’s best features. Recommend that they pack up and store unusual items during the selling process.

10. Personal Information and Items  

Advise your sellers to safeguard their personal information, including financial documents, legal papers, and any personal letters. Family ashes, religious items, and political memorabilia should also be hidden to avoid uncomfortable distractions.

11. Uncomfortable Art and Photos  

Family photos and any unconventional or provocative artwork should be removed to create a neutral environment where buyers can envision themselves in the space.

12. The Seller’s Presence 

One of the most important staging tips is to remind your sellers to leave the house during showings! Buyers need space to explore the home freely without the seller’s presence creating awkwardness.

By helping your sellers eliminate these “scary” elements, you’re setting the stage for a more successful and smooth home-selling process.

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