The keys to your selling success using our unique Staging and Styling Formula...

Our approach to selling homes for sale to get noticed over other properties is a thoughtful and meticulous process. If you feel that your property isn’t getting as many viewings as you would like, then it might be time to have a look at our staging formula, unlocking the potential of your home using our specialist staging services, just for you and your unique home.

Our Process is simple…

Step 1. UNDERSTANDING YOUR DREAM BUYER– The Knowledge

Before marketing your home, it’s essential for you and your agent to understand who will be most interested in your property. Are you targeting young professionals looking to move out of London, or families searching for their forever home with a spacious layout and a large garden? Knowing your ideal buyer can make the preparation process much easier. If you don't have a clear understanding of your target audience, your images, descriptions, and brochures may not attract the best potential buyers.

Step 2. Vision & Clarity

Can potential buyers quickly understand what your home has to offer from your online listing? When it's your own home, it can be challenging to assess this. Many times, I've seen homes that look unimpressive in photos but are stunning in person. If you are preparing your home for sale yourself getting it to look presentable, your images should highlight your home in its best light and entice buyers to schedule a viewing. If you're unsure about your listing, consider asking a friend who isn't familiar with your home to review it online and share their impressions with you. Or even better give us a call, we can give you advice or support you fully in the process. It's always best to have a clear vision, clarity and plan in place

Step 3. THE SECRET STUFF – Styling & Staging

Understanding your target market that you wish to attract will make styling your home easier. It’s essential to remember that prospective buyers are not simply in the market for an empty shell, they are seeking the experiences and lifestyle that your home can provide for them and their loved ones. Many buyers want a turn-key move in, sit down and put the kettle on experience, no hard work, simple move in and begin life. There are plenty of buyers out there who are willing to pay a premium price for that luxury.

Our approach and our secret to getting the right attention for viewings is all about creating positive pockets of inviting atmospheres by showcasing the various aspects of life within your home and how it can be used.

For instance, set the scene of enjoying a glass of wine on the patio, where you can unwind while watching the sunset.  Or a simple quiet moment in the morning sitting at the breakfast table over a warm cup of coffee and croissant, as you take in stunning views, inspiring your day. It's all about setting the scene, drawing in on a buyers senses, imagination and emotionally connecting to the home, helping them to fall in love with it and imagining themselves living there.  

Step 4. Knowing your client & buyers needs

If both the Estate Agent and Stylist work together to understand the interested buyer’s needs, their checklist of desirables, and understand who is most likely to want to buy the prospective home, you have a better chance of marketing it in the correct way. Drawing the right people in, whilst simultaneously aligning the right buyer to a dream home match, saving everyone's time and energy.  Sometimes thinking outside the box is critical to get things moving, for example, if there is an ideal buyer but you know they may might be concerned about the size of the kitchen, the agent should be prepped with all the possible options for buyers to change it. Knowing the buyers inside out is a critical skill and will consistently lead to higher sale prices in a quicker time. Whilst reducing valuable time in the process.

Step 5. A Fresh take on Photography

Are your photographs current? It’s important to ensure that they accurately represent the season and condition of your property. With the influx of new homes on the market, buyers tend to gravitate toward recent listings, often overlooking those that have been available for longer. To enhance your listing and attract more interest, consider updating your photos to reflect a fresh and inviting image that stands out. This way, you can effectively combat being overlooked and present your property in the best light possible. If your house isn't on the market but you're about to enlist an Estate Agent, always look at how other listings are photographed and how professional and appealing they look, so that you can decide if the photography will present your home in the best way. Think magazine perfection.

If you would like to talk to us about your property and find out more details about our staging and we can help you unlock the potential of your home, then we’d love to help, please get in touch with us.

Email us on info@clarkeandclarkepropertystaging.com or call us 01279 927088

HOW TO WOW your guests this summer: The entertaining edit!

Thinking of entertaining this summer? I love having people over whatever the season, but there's always something extra special about entertaining and gathering your loved ones over the summer months. With a little thoughtful planning behind creating an unforgettable summer gathering, focus on making a warm and inviting atmosphere where your guests feel right at home. Start by setting up a beautifully arranged table adorned with colourful centrepieces and charming tableware that will grab everyone's attention. Serve up delicious food and refreshing drinks that cater to a variety of tastes, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t forget to include some fun entertainment, like' celebrity who am I' or my favourite and a total classic is a game of 'charades' you can't go wrong!

Here's my helpful top tips tips in detail to help you throw a fantastic summer gathering that everyone will love!

1. Set the Scene with Summer Vibes:

• Embrace Natural Decor: Use seasonal flowers from your garden or local markets. Arrange them in simple vases or even jam jars for a relaxed feel. You can get really creative using all sorts of objects, whatever can hold water and flowers. It's always nice to have low level arrangements so that your guests can see each other across the table. Bowls of beautiful fresh fruit can also look amazing as table decor, such as lemons, nectarines etc. You could have one large centrepiece, with long wild greenery and flowers for a total wow factor, there are so many options. I love looking at Willow Crossley who creates the most beautiful natural displays see Willow Crossley | World-renowned florist, author and designer – WillowCrossley

  
  

• Create Cosy Nooks: Arrange your outdoor furniture to encourage conversation. Add comfortable cushions and throws under light, summery colours. Consider a mix of seating options like chairs, benches, and even hay bales or floor cushions for a super relaxed vibe.

• Let it Glow: As evening approaches, create a magical ambience with soft lighting. String lights are a classic, but also consider lanterns, fairy lights woven through plants, or even citronella candles for both light and keeping bugs at bay.

• Bring in Natural Elements: Incorporate elements like moss and twigs among your flowers, seashells, smooth stones, or even large leafed branches into your decor for a touch of nature. Greens and pinks are my favourite colour combination crating a pretty whimsical feel. Whilst blue and white linens can evoke a fresh, nautical feel. I like a relaxed look using beautiful flowers and plain table linen, napkins and candles dotted around and using beautifully decorated china/crockery, not just for display but I use mine daily. Why hide them in a cupboard when they can be enjoyed every day, life is too short for just special occasions, enjoy the nice pieces you have and rotate for a change.

2. Elevate the Food and Drinks:

• Seasonal Sensations: Focus on fresh, seasonal produce. Think vibrant salads with grilled halloumi or peaches, colourful crudités platters with homemade dips, or skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. There are endless ideas out there for dinner parties and meals for sharing. My go to is Mary Berry, who doesn't love her perfectly classic, hearty and most importantly tasty offerings, that will delight your guests. See her endless ideas here Recipes | Mary Berry

• Help Yourself Food Stations: Instead of a formal sit-down, consider interactive food stations. A build-your-own taco bar, a slider station, or even a DIY ice cream sundae bar can be a hit and encourage mingling. See here for some great ideas   

   1.  Interactive Food Stations to Impress at Your Next Office Party

  www.kissthecookcatering.com

• Create your own Signature Summer Drinks: Make your own signature cocktail or mocktail that shouts the season. Think refreshing watermelon margaritas, botanical gin lemonades, or a colourful fruit punch. Offer infused water with cucumber and mint or berries for a non-alcoholic option. Consider colour-coordinating your drinks with your floral arrangements for an extra touch of fun.

• Presentation Matters: Let's elevate every dish, even simple food can feel special with thoughtful presentation. Use attractive platters, colourful bowls, and garnishes like fresh herbs or edible flowers are so lovely and make all the difference.

3. Entertain Your Guests:

• Themed Fun: It might sound naff at first, but it's a really easy and a great way to tie everything together whilst making it fun and engaging. Perhaps an English garden party... think wild and whimsical. Or a tropical luau, think vibrant and colourful, a bohemian garden party, or even a Mediterranean salsa theme can add an element of excitement. Going all out, encourage guests to dress up with your theme in mind!

• Lawn Games & Activities: Set up some outdoor games like giant Jenga, or have some board games or card games available.

  Thoughtful Music: Music sets the mood. If it's a special occasion, you could consider a live acoustic set for a relaxed evening or a curated playlist that fits your theme and the energy you want to create.

• A Sweet Ending: Don't forget dessert! Fresh fruit tarts, homemade ice cream, a light cheescake always goes down well.

4. The Thoughtful Host:

• Comfort is Key: Provide shade from the sun with parasols or large pretty parasols. Have blankets on hand for when the evening gets cooler. Offer insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Hydration Station: Make sure water and other non-alcoholic beverages are readily available.

• Dietary Considerations: Ask about any dietary restrictions or allergies beforehand and ensure you have options for everyone. Clearly label dishes to be safe for any allergies.

• Be Prepared for Anything: Have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather, like a covered area or indoor space.

  
  

  Enjoy the feast and the joy of entertaining, love Natasha x

  
  
  
  

WILLIAM MORRIS said...✨️

"Have nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful."

I love this quote, it really speaks to me. William Morris was one of the most respected and talented Artists and Designers of the 19th century. Championing handmade techniques, he was passionate about keeping those valuable skills alive, which we still get to enjoy today. His work is famous for not only wallpapers and textiles but also carpets, embroideries, tapestries, tiles. Such beautiful work, loved by so many.

We have so many wonderfully talented artisans and designers out there, bringing joy into our lives and homes, just as William Morris did and continues to do. 💚