If you’re preparing to sell your home, the first step to quickly attracting buyers doesn’t involve major renovations or big investments. In fact, the secret is often in removing items that clutter the space and distract from the home’s appeal.
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According to real estate agents and experts, getting rid of certain objects can speed up the sale of your home and even boost its value.
Here are 8 things you should throw out if you want to sell your home faster.
1. Very old or worn-out furniture and objects
Outdated, stained, or broken furniture gives the impression of neglect. Even if they’re still functional, they hurt the home’s image in photos and in-person visits. Replace them with neutral pieces or remove them altogether.
2. Too many personal items
Family photos, travel souvenirs, collections, or religious items should be removed. Experts say buyers need to imagine themselves living in the space, which is hard to do when personal references are everywhere.
3. Appliances that don’t work
Old refrigerators, broken fans, or microwaves that no longer turn on take up space and create a negative impression. They also distract from what truly matters: the structure and layout of the home.
4. Expired products in the bathroom or kitchen
Cabinets full of old products, expired medicine, or outdated food packaging leave a bad impression. Clutter and accumulation suggest dirtiness and disorganization.
5. Dirty or heavy rugs and curtains
Dark, heavy, or stained rugs and curtains make rooms feel smaller and more tiring. Go for lightness: remove anything in poor condition and opt for sheer, clean fabrics or leave windows uncovered.
6. Scattered or piled-up toys
If you have kids, it’s important to tidy up toys before showings. Rooms overflowing with toys lose their original purpose and make it harder for buyers to visualize the space’s potential.
7. Pet items
Dog beds, litter boxes, chewed toys, or food bowls should be hidden. Many buyers are allergic, afraid of, or simply don’t like pets — and this can hinder the sale.
8. Excess furniture or décor
Overcrowded rooms feel cramped and limit movement. Ideally, agents say, spaces should “breathe.” Less is more when it comes to attracting buyers.
Why does this make a difference when selling?
The concept of home staging, popular in the U.S. and increasingly common in Brazil, shows that visually preparing a home can speed up the sale and enhance the perceived value of the property. Removing anything that doesn’t contribute to the aesthetic or function is a crucial step.
Plus, first impressions are everything. Clean, airy, and visually neutral homes are more likely to impress buyers right away, reducing time on the market and avoiding tough negotiations.
If you want to sell your home fast, start by clearing out what doesn’t help. With these 8 practical tips, you can create a more attractive, organized, and emotionally appealing space — exactly what buyers are looking for. Remember: less clutter, more selling opportunities!
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
