When selling a home, staging is an essential tool. It goes beyond simply arranging furniture and decor to creating an immersive experience. Today, we’ll dive into sensory staging, which engages sight, sound, touch, smell, taste, and even temperature to turn a house into a place potential buyers can see themselves living in.

Sight

Let’s start with the sense that often gets the most attention in home staging: sight. Creating an appealing visual experience is crucial. Natural light is your best friend. Throw open those curtains, clean the windows, and let the sunshine in. The bright, open atmosphere will instantly make the space more inviting, especially in our darker fall and winter months here in Portland.

Strategic use of mirrors is another visual trick. They reflect light and make rooms appear larger. Use mirrors to create depth and enhance the sense of space.

Artificial lighting is equally important. It can set the mood and highlight key areas. Think about pendant lights over the dining table or wall sconces that create a warm, cozy ambiance in the living room. Layered lighting is a great tool.

You can employ a variety of ways to make your home bright and inviting during the PNW’s winter months.

Sound

Sound plays a vital role in creating the right atmosphere. Soft, soothing music or nature sounds can make potential buyers feel relaxed and at ease. Consider playing gentle background music (relaxing classical works great!) during showings to enhance the overall experience.

Conversely, eliminate distracting noises. A barking dog or construction noise next door can be off-putting. (Staging with pets doesn’t have to be difficult..) Ensure that the environment is as quiet as possible to create a peaceful showing experience.

Remember, the right sounds can evoke positive emotions, making potential buyers feel more at home.

Touch

The sense of touch is another subtle yet essential element in sensory staging. The texture of materials in your home can greatly impact a buyer’s experience. Soft textiles like plush rugs, velvet cushions, or a sumptuous throw draped over a sofa can convey coziness.

Consider the furniture itself, too. Opt for pieces that are comfortable to sit on. You want potential buyers to feel relaxed and at ease in your space.

Many 2023 home staging design trends focus on texture and natural materials.

Smell

When it comes to scent, less is often more. While some homes benefit from light, neutral fragrances, it’s also important to consider that some people may have allergies or sensitivities. To appeal to the broadest range of potential buyers, opt for truly natural scents like fresh linen, citrus, or subtle florals from a fresh bouquet. Or, if in doubt, keep the air fragrance-free. The absence of strong odors can be just as effective in creating a clean and fresh atmosphere.

Taste

Taste might not seem like a typical element of home staging, but it can leave a memorable impression. A plate of fresh cookies, a pot of freshly brewed coffee, or a bowl of fruit during a showing can add a welcoming touch. These simple refreshments can create a sense of warmth and hospitality.

Think about showcasing the potential for culinary experiences. A well-designed kitchen can evoke images of family gatherings and shared meals. Buyers can begin to envision themselves cooking and entertaining in the space.

Temperature

The temperature in a home can significantly influence the buyer’s experience. Aim for a comfortable room temperature during showings. You don’t want potential buyers feeling too hot or too cold. A well-regulated indoor climate showcases the adaptability of the home, whether it’s during the chilly days of winter or the sweltering heat of summer.

Sensory staging is about creating an immersive experience. Engaging all the senses – sight, sound, touch, smell, taste, and even temperature – transforms a property into a home. By paying attention to these details, you can elicit emotions and help potential buyers truly envision themselves living in the space. It’s not just a house; it’s a place where they can see, feel, and imagine the life they’ve always dreamed of. So, the next time you’re staging a home, remember that it’s more than what meets the eye – it’s an experience that touches all the senses.