These days, outdoor spaces are increasingly important. Delight potential buyers by highlighting the unique outdoor features of your listing.
 

1. Draw attention to the view.

To extend the home's living space, start from the inside out. Make sure that any outdoor living space - or view of the outdoors - is in the buyer's line of sight. Your stager will show you how to place furniture so that it draws attention to the view. Then, clear knickknacks and plants from the sills, including the kitchen windows. Remove hanging plants and window treatments. 
 

2. Don't block the doors. 

Your seller probably uses only one entrance to access the balcony, screened-in porch, or yard. When staging, make sure all entrances are accessible, in good repair, and easy to open. This will tempt buyers to wander out and explore. 
 

3. Bring the outdoors closer in.

If the home has a balcony or screened-in porch, add greenery. A large palm or thriving plant will make the space more livable and inviting. If there is enough room, consider a rug or thoughtfully chosen seating.

4. Show the possibilities.

Help your buyers imagine how they might use the space. For example, we recently staged a balcony outside a master bedroom with two chairs and a tiny table. Feeling creative? Add a pair of coffee mugs or wine glasses to help buyers imagine relaxing outside - perhaps with a loved one - at the beginning or end of a day.

5. Stage all of the outdoors.

Buyers are actively seeking more usable outdoor space. Highlight the potential of your listing by extending staging throughout the outdoor areas. For example, you might start by staging the deck with a bistro table, pitcher and glasses, and some greenery, and then add a set of Adirondack chairs and a table to the patio area below.

For homes with more outdoor space, consider setting up a cornhole game or even a croquet set. It doesn't matter if your buyers like the game; what's important is to show them that there is room to play. Or, you might use a picnic table in the yard, add seating around a fire pit, or even string up a hammock further out. This shows your potential buyers how they can entertain a trusted friend or two, more safely, or give family members a change of scenery or some much-needed private space.

As always, less is more. Contact me if you'd like to discuss how to add value to your listing by carefully showcasing that outdoor view, porch, patio, or yard. I think you'll be surprised at the difference this can make.