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As the days get longer and we see the first bits of green appear, there is a feeling that it is time for a change, or to press “reset” on our living spaces.
You don’t need to wait until you’re ready to move to give your home the TLC it deserves! Here’s a secret: the staging tricks realtors use to wow buyers are the same ones you can use to fall back in love with your home. So, whether you’re getting market-ready, or just want that “new home” feeling, here are some of Team vanRahan’s top tips for a successful spring cleaning.
1. The Surface Sweep
Chances are you have some items that can be decluttered. In real estate, we try to think about creating “breathing room”, removing some of the visual noise so your home’s best features can shine.
- Countertops: Clear off kitchen counters, consider storing any “winter” appliances
- Seasonal Items: If you have the space, move some winter coats, boots, and even clothes to storage. Additionally, swap out heavy pillows and linens for lighter materials
- Create Space: Edit your shelves and mantels. Removing a few items creates some “white space” which allows the eyes to rest and opens up the space.
- Intentional Organizing: Use trays or baskets to organize items that must stay out, it helps the space feel intentional rather than cluttered.
TIP FROM THE TEAM: Do you still have boxes you haven’t unpacked since moving in? If it’s been a few months (or more!) and you haven’t needed them, consider donating or selling these items instead. This will create storage space for the things you do use!
2. The “clean glass” effect
It’s time to get the winter grime off the house!
- Clean the windows inside and out: It’s the fastest way to make a room feel larger and brighter. Windowsills too! Removing items from windowsills is one of the fastest ways to transform a room
- Touch ups: Consider touching up white paint on windowsills or other trim
- Clean the mirrors too: Think of mirrors as “indoor windows” that deserve the same streak-free shine.
TIP FROM THE TEAM: If you are selling, swap out dark or blackout curtains for lighter, more sheer materials. If you’re staying, you might want to consider doing this in some areas for the spring and summer too.
3. The deep details
Now that the surfaces are cleared and the light is shining in, it’s time to really refresh the details. Here’s how to achieve a professional-grade finish.
- Scrub surfaces by hand: Think baseboards and trim, as well as touchpoints like doorways and light switches, and backsplash. Sometimes, these areas just need more than a quick scrub
- Thoroughly clean floors: This might include scrubbing tile and grout, or polishing hardwood floors.
- Textile Refresh: Wash or replace mats and rugs, and swap out any heavy winter entrance mats for lighter welcome mats.
TIP FROM THE TEAM: Dryer sheets! You can use dryer sheets when cleaning baseboards, and also inside of pillows and cushions to help keep your home feeling and smelling fresh.
4. Sensory Swaps
A home’s colour palette is not the only thing that can change the atmosphere. Walking into a room that just smells like spring is also an instant mood booster.
- Swap out heavy notes: did you know that “warm” scents like vanilla and cinnamon make a room feel cozier, but also smaller? For spring, we want the opposite effect. Instead, look for lemon, eucalyptus, or fresh-cut grass. Whatever you like in the “green & crisp” category
- Linens & Carpets: Even if you’re not a candle person, try high-quality linen spray on your curtains, throw pillows, and carpets. When the spring breeze hits them, it will carry a subtle “just washed” smell through your home. Tip: don’t forget to actually take the curtains down for a wash every so often!
- Natural aromatics: Try a simmer pot with lemon slices and rosemary on the stove, and get into the habit of opening your windows more often to keep the air in your home fresh.
Springtime is a season of new beginnings, and your home is no exception. Whether you’re getting ready for potential buyers to view your home, or just to enjoy your space, these small changes will make a world of difference.
If your spring refresh gets you thinking about a change of scenery altogether, Team vanRahan is always here to provide an expert perspective on your home’s potential.
Happy cleaning!
