Staging your home right can make all the difference during an open house in Ontario.

How to Prepare Your Home for an Open House in Ontario

Open houses might seem old-school—but they still work. In Ontario, a well-staged open house can attract serious buyers, create buzz, and even spark competing offers.

That said, you only get one shot at a first impression—so let’s make sure your home puts its best foot forward. Here’s how to prep your home like a pro before showtime.

🧼 Step 1: Deep Clean + Declutter Everything

Start here—always. You want your home to feel fresh, light, and move-in ready. Focus on:

• Washing windows (inside and out)
• Scrubbing baseboards, walls, and light switches
• Vacuuming corners, vents, and under furniture
• Removing personal items like family photos and kids’ art
• Decluttering kitchen counters, closets, and nightstands

Tip: Less furniture often makes a room feel larger. Store what you don’t need.

🛋️ Step 2: Stage Room-by-Room

Kitchen

• Clear off all counters—only leave 1-2 decorative pieces
• Remove fridge magnets, mail, or dish racks
• Empty garbage and clean the sink thoroughly

Living Room

• Arrange furniture for flow and conversation
• Add a few pillows and a soft throw for warmth
• Remove personal photos or niche décor

Bedrooms

• Make beds like a hotel: crisp sheets, fluffed pillows
• Clear off dressers and nightstands
• Use matching lamps or neutral accessories

Bathrooms

• Put out fresh towels
• Remove toothbrushes, razors, and meds
• Scrub all surfaces (toilets, mirrors, tile, sink)

Bonus Rooms

• Stage a home office if possible (clean, simple)
• Use soft lighting in dark corners
• A small plant adds life anywhere

👃 Scent, Sound & Light Matter More Than You Think

Buyers don’t just see your home—they experience it. Try this sensory checklist:

• Scent: Fresh and neutral. No strong air fresheners. A subtle vanilla or citrus scent works well.
• Sound: Soft instrumental music in the background = bonus points
• Light: Open all curtains, blinds, and turn on lamps—even during the day

🌳 Don’t Forget the Outside

First impressions start at the curb. Make sure:

• Lawn is cut and leaves swept
• Walkway is clear and welcoming
• Front door is clean and freshly painted (if needed)
• Outdoor lighting works
• Remove extra vehicles from the driveway

📝 Open House Day Checklist

• Take out the garbage and recycling
• Wipe down all surfaces (one last time)
• Do a “smell test” — neutral is best
• Open all blinds and turn on every light
• Leave 10–15 minutes before start time

Bonus: Leave out a home features sheet, floor plan, or local amenity list for buyers to take home.

🚫 What Not to Do

• Don’t hang around. Buyers won’t feel comfortable exploring with you there.
• Don’t leave pets at home. Even well-behaved ones.
• Don’t use overpowering scents or incense.

💡 Final Tip: Work With a Local Pro

Prepping for an open house isn’t just about looks—it’s about showing your home in a way that makes buyers feel emotionally connected. And I can help with all of that.

From strategy to staging tips to timing, I make the process as stress-free as possible.

Start with a free home evaluation here or check out my full Seller Services Explained page to learn how we get homes sold in Brockville and beyond.