Welcome to Week 2 of Moving May, where we’re diving into simple ways to make your home irresistible to buyers. If you’re getting ready to sell, you’ve probably heard the word depersonalize tossed around, and for good reason!
Depersonalizing your home before listing it can help it sell faster and for a better price. It allows potential buyers to imagine their life in the space, not yours. Let’s talk about how to do it right — without stripping your home of all warmth and charm.
Why Depersonalizing Matters When Selling Your Home
Here’s the deal: buyers aren’t just looking for a house — they’re looking for a future. When your home is filled with your family photos, kids’ art, or super-specific décor, it can be hard for them to mentally move in.
Staging a home to sell means creating a neutral, welcoming vibe that appeals to a wide range of people. And that starts with depersonalizing.
What Does “Depersonalize” Really Mean?
Depersonalizing isn’t about making your home feel sterile and cold — it’s about making it feel like a fresh canvas. Here’s what to focus on:
Remove Personal Photos
Family portraits, wedding pictures, and kids’ school photos should all be packed away. Replace them with simple artwork or mirrors to open up the space.
Neutralize Bold Décor
Love your hot pink accent wall? That’s fabulous — but not for selling. Stick with soft, neutral tones like beige, soft gray, or warm whites to help the space feel light, bright, and move-in ready.
Minimize Unique Collections
Whether it’s sports memorabilia, vintage dolls, or themed décor, it’s best to pack these away. They can distract buyers from seeing the room’s potential.
Clear Out Personal Products
In bathrooms and closets, remove personal items like toothbrushes, perfumes, razors, and anything that screams “someone lives here!” Tuck them in a basket you can grab before a showing.
Pro Staging Tips for Selling a House Faster
Looking to go the extra mile? Here are a few expert-approved touches that can elevate your space and boost your listing photos:
Add Greenery: A few plants or fresh flowers add life and softness.
Fluff and Style: Use crisp bedding and plump pillows in neutral tones to create a hotel-like feel.
Light It Right: Use lamps and natural light to keep things warm and inviting — bright rooms feel bigger.
Tidy Closets: Buyers peek! Make sure closets are organized and not overstuffed.
Download The Barnhart Home depersonalizing and home selling checklist here!
Need a Hand?
If the thought of depersonalizing your entire home feels overwhelming — you’re not alone. This is exactly the kind of home organization help I love to offer my clients. Whether you need a game plan or hands-on support, I’m here to make your move easier every step of the way. Let’s chat!
Up Next in Moving May…
We’re halfway through our mini-series, and next week we’re covering one of the biggest pain points of the whole process: packing. I’ll be sharing my best secrets to pack smart, label like a pro, and stay sane through the chaos. Stay tuned!