Five Tips for Making Vacant Homes Feel Less Vacant

by Cristina Callegari Kanellopoulos

1. Rent furniture. Staged homes tend to sell for more and in less time. Depending on your market and budget, renting furniture for key rooms can make a big difference. If renting does not work, leaving a few pieces of furniture can provide a sense of space.
2. Keep it comfortable. Leave the utilities on and keep the temperature at a comfortable level.
3. Remove ghost lines. Hide the effects of furniture. Paint the walls the same color, shampoo the carpet, and replace rugs so there is no evidence of what used to be there.
4. Hire a maid. Make sure the home remains fresh and clean.
5. Keep up curb appeal. Hire a lawn maintenance service. Make sure the lawn gets watered and the landscaping stays alive.