W
hen it comes to selling a home, first impressions are crucial. To make your listing stand out and sell quickly, smart and strategic staging is key. We spoke with Sherri Williams, a seasoned Realtor with RealtySouth and home-staging enthusiast, who has staged over 100 homes across the Greater Birmingham Area.

    Here are her top tips for staging your home like a pro:

    1. Trust your Realtor's advice

    Your Realtor has seen dozens of homes each week and can spot what will help or hurt its chances of selling. "You only have one shot at a first impression," says Sherri. "A good Realtor will be honest with you about what needs to be done to make your home show at its best."

    2. Decorate with discernment

    When staging, think "less is more." Remove personal mementos and clutter that can distract from the space. In the kitchen, clear counters create a sense of space and give buyers a clean, open feel.

    3. Depersonalize your space

    Remove family portraits and bold decor that might distract from the overall space. Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your home, not like they're visiting.

    4. Consider how each room will be showcased in photos

    Staging isn't just about in-person visits; it's also about how your home looks online. Take before photos to map out a personalized plan and bring in neutral items that create a welcoming atmosphere.

    Sherri recommends shopping at local stores like Home Goods, Encore Home, and Pottery Barn for staging essentials. With her expertise and curated inventory, she can help make your home picture-perfect before it hits the market. Contact Sherri Williams with RealtySouth to get started.