Selling a home while living in it can present challenges, especially if you have children. Potential homebuyers with kids may appreciate your special décor in the kids' rooms, but buyers without children may not relate. To attract more buyers, our real estate agents suggest home staging that removes personal touches and allows buyers to see themselves living in the home.

While it might be impossible to create a blank canvas in your kids' rooms, you can follow some staging tips that will interest buyers while they are looking at Lakeway homes for sale.

• Declutter and Organize
  Kids' rooms are usually filled with books, stuffed animals, and toys that cause the space to look cluttered and messy. While older kids may be better at picking up their toys and straightening up their rooms, young kids don't pay much attention to either. Whatever the age of your kids, it's essential to declutter and organize their rooms before you show your home.

• • Organize books and stuffed animals on shelves or bookcases

  • Place school supplies in baskets or colorful containers

  • Buy a toy chest for larger toys and large essentials

  • Store train sets, dolls, and action figures in clear plastic totes

  • Organize clothing in drawers and closets

  • Donate outgrown clothing and toys to a local thrift store

• Remove Theme Elements
  Many kids' rooms feature theme elements that can be overwhelming for potential buyers. Overloading the visual senses with things that don't appeal can send buyers right out of the room. Before you show your home, remove the Little Mermaid switch plates, Fairy Princess light fixtures, or Marvel Comic lampshades. Even if the potential buyers touring your home have kids, those kids might not have the same interests that yours have. If the room is painted with themed murals on the walls, consider painting over them or covering them with artwork or quilts that are less distracting to buyers.
  
  
• De-Personalize the Space
  De-personalizing the space is another way to help buyers see themselves living in your home. Put away personal items in your kids' rooms like family photos, school yearbooks, sports awards and trophies, and personal drawings and artwork. Pack these items in a box or clear container and store them in the garage. A buyer should be focused on the home, not on the people who live in it.
  
  
• Let in the Light
  If you're lucky enough to have several windows in your kids' rooms, open up the draperies or shades and let natural light into the space. Natural light instantly increases warmth and visual appeal in any room. If the room has small windows or no windows at all, consider adding a ceiling chandelier or pendant, wall sconces, or table lamps to increase brightness. Good natural or ambient light in a room makes the space feel larger, less cluttered, and more comfortable for daily activities.

If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in the area, contact us for available properties that fit your lifestyle and financial needs.