What’s the best way to help your home make a glorious first impression on would-be buyers? Real estate experts agree that “staging” (also called “fluffing”) your home to show it in the most favorable light is well worth your time and effort.

Beyond the pre-sale cleaning and organizing you would expect to do, successful staging includes strategically arranging objects and furniture, adding decorative touches and more. Here are a few tips from the pros to help buyers make an immediate emotional connection with your home:

Add a pot of fresh blooming flowers to the entryway (yellow is a very welcoming color)
Open blinds to show off nice views. A vase on the window sill plays down less attractive views
Add throw pillows, a soft lap blanket, candles and a candy dish for a cozy living room
Use a soft bedspread, quilt, pillows and a throw rug to turn a bedroom into a relaxing retreat
Set your dining room table with dishes, placemats, wine glasses, etc.
Banish television sets, computers, kitchen and bathroom appliances from sight
Don't forget the garage! Make sure surfaces are clean and neat. Store tools and gardening products to make room for cars.
Whether you do the staging yourself or have your home fluffed by a professional, one Chicago-area expert confirms that homes that are staged often sell 75% faster and for 3%–6% higher than the asking price!