How You Can Go With The Flow!

If you ask buyers what they are looking for in a home, it’s almost guaranteed they will mention “good flow.” But, what exactly does that mean? If you have visited a model home lately, you probably noticed how floor plans have changed in the last decade or so. You’ll find large entries, living rooms and dining rooms separated with nothing more than an open arch, kitchens sharing a space with family rooms, and very few hallways.

If the home you are selling already has these features, you are way ahead of the game. But, what if your home was built earlier, when doors and hallways were everywhere, and every room had its own four walls? If ripping out walls is not in your budget, there are still some things you can do to help with the “flow.”

Resist the urge to put furniture in your entry way. That catch-all table is just making the space seem smaller. You want the buyer’s eye to look ahead. If the entry is narrow, a mirror can open the space more. Place the mirror, so as buyers come in the front door, the reflection is of something you want them to see. A reflection of a closet door defeats the purpose of the mirror.

Think about removing doors completely, especially in older homes. Paint the door trim the same color as the walls, so the doorway appears larger. In fact, paint can go a long way in helping your home seem more open. Continuing the same color throughout the home is a great way to counteract a choppy floor plan.

If your home has narrow hallways, hanging photos or art only makes them seem narrower. And, remember to leave all doors open for showings.

Buyers don’t come into your home and sit on the sofa. They are on their feet and walking from room to room. Make sure there is a clear path in each room, so buyers don’t have to walk around your furniture.

The last trick is to place all the largest pieces of furniture, such as entertainment centers or bookcases, on outside walls. This helps create the illusion of more space. And, never block windows. The more windows you have, the larger rooms will appear.

Creating a good flow through your home will give buyers what they are looking for, and can be accomplished with little or no cost!