Because my son, Colten, is turning 1 today, I thought I'd make a special blog about how to make your home the most presentable with those little kiddos running around!
Before I became a parent, I didn't understand the necessary STUFF that came along with that kid. Now, each room in my house has something extra in it that belongs to my boy. I wouldn't trade it for the world, but for those parents who are trying to sell their home, it makes it a struggle. On one hand, you want to de-clutter and get rid of the most you can, but one the other hand, its so hard to live without all those wonderful gadgets we've gotten used to. Here are some easy, practical tips for each room that might help sell your home easier with all the kiddo's stuff:
1. Kids' bedrooms: If you have a crazy color (like bright pink or dark blue), you may consider painting it a more neutral color--it really does help buyers visualize their stuff in there, whether they have kids or not. If you have any decals or stickers on the wall, it's best to remove those too. To declutter their room, consider adding a bookshelf with baskets to hide all the toys & books and make it look clean. A toy box is a must--either use big woven baskets or even extra laundry baskets--at least they will have a place to be put away.
2. Bathroom: Try to make it as neutral as possible. Hide all the toys behind the shower curtain that you can close for showings. Put extra toothbrushes, cups, & hair ties in a drawer. Just keep the sink as clean as possible.
3. Dining room: The huge highchair that takes up half your room is very nice, but would it be more practical to have a booster seat tied to one of the dining room chairs? It hides very well--most aren't even noticeable when the chairs are all slid under.
4. Living Room: Keep as many toys as you can in the kids' bedrooms so the living room looks nice and de-cluttered. If you do have to keep toys in the living room, consider a bench with storage underneath or an extra shelf in your TV stand might provide good storage.
5. Kitchen: Most kids kitchen stuff can fit into a cabinet or drawer--just make sure and utilize it and if your kid doesn't use an item (bottle, sippy cup, etc.) anymore, put it in a box and store it (or sell it).
6. Flooring: If your carpet is looking a little rough from grape juice and muddy shoes, consider throwing a throw rug down and offering a carpet allowance to the buyers. If you try to replace the carpet before you sell it, it may just end up stained again.
Most of all, don't make your life miserable. Just do some small things and it will make a difference. And, remember, about 50% of households already have children so they are looking at how your house will work for them and their children as well.
I hope that helps! JK
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