After taking the top spot on Conde Nast’s list of Top 10 Cities in the US for the third year in a row, Charleston has seen a boom of interest from those looking to make the Holy City home. The friendly people, rich history, and nearby beaches draw people from all over the world, and the historic homes are a part of what makes the scenery so delightful. For those looking to sell their historic Charleston home, the market is hot and the timing is great. But before listing your home, brush up on our 6 best tips for staging your historic home.
1. Keep it Classic with Wall Colors
Historic home buyers are usually not the types to appreciate neon accent walls or funky wallpaper. Make sure the paint colors you’ve chosen are appropriate for the time period of the house. Don’t be afraid to use color to highlight the best parts of the home, but make every color choice with a mind for keeping a historic feel.
2. Highlight Your Assets – Emphasis on the Architecture
The big draw for historic homes is the classic architecture. It is what tells the story of the home and gives it the romantic feel buyers are looking for. Make sure this isn’t overshadowed by ornate décor. For rooms with something special like decorative moldings and beamed ceilings, consider painting with light colors to draw the buyer’s eye to these architectural treasures.
3. Classic, not Cluttered
No matter how much you love your vintage collections, put them away before prospective buyers come for showings. People want to imagine their own things in a space and this is especially true for buyers looking at historic homes. By de-cluttering your home, you will make it easier for these buyers to see themselves living there, and that only makes them more likely to purchase!
4. Bigger is Better – Maximize the Space
One drawback to the centuries old homes in Charleston is the tendency for these homes to have smaller, more compact rooms and floor plans. To create the illusion of space, clear out any oversized furniture and be thoughtful with paint colors. Light wall colors mixed with dark floors will exaggerate the proportions of the room. Opening windows to let in that beautiful Charleston sunshine will make rooms feel spacious, and remind buyers why they want to be in Charleston.
5. Historic Home, Modern Comforts
Even if you have styled your kitchen and bathrooms to keep with the historic feel of your home, buyers will want modern amenities, especially in these rooms. A classic kitchen will sell a home, but not without updated appliances and sufficient storage. Bathrooms, too, should feel appropriate to the period, but with modern luxuries and finishes.
6. Curb Appeal Counts
Homes with classic Charleston touches will make buyers fall in love before they even open the front door. Lantern light fixtures and plantation shutters are easy ways to freshen up curb appeal in a way that stays true to the historic quality of your home. If your home has a porch, make sure to stage outdoor furniture appropriately. If done well, buyers will picture themselves sitting and sipping iced tea while enjoying the Charleston sea breeze.
