You may have noticed that realtors will turn on every single light in a home, even during the day, when it is being shown to prospective buyers. There is good reason for this. Lighting fixtures, no matter humble or fancy, when turned on, they can liven up a space, not just by filling it with light, but also by creating ambiance and even drama.
There are three types of lighting that is required for most rooms:
General: This supplies a wash of light over the space and is most often found in the form of ceiling fixtures.
Task: Extremely necessary for areas where jobs are being performed – reading, cooking, sewing, homework, etc.
Accent: Used to create drama by highlighting features of a room – architectural, art pieces, plants, etc. The lamp itself can be an accent piece, making a attractive addition to the decor in your room.
It is important, especially when you’re selling your home, that you have a good mix of all three types of lighting. Relying on the single overhead fixture in the centre of the ceiling is simply not enough. Recessed pot lights, wall sconces, up-lights, floor and table lamps, as well as extra task lighting in the kitchen will all provide an excellent combination of sources of light to enhance your home. Sunlight must also be included in this list, so clean windows with attractive curtains or shades, are a must.
It is not essential that you go out and spend a fortune on new lighting fixtures, but the better your home is accessorized in this regard, the more attractive it will be to potential buyers. With so many lighting options currently available, choices are available for all styles, sizes and price points.
Lighting Check List:
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replace any burned out bulbs
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use compact florescent bulbs whenever possible for a low wattage, energy saving alternative
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replace lamp shades for a quick fix
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make sure all fixtures are clean
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fix any problems before you list your home
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add dimmer switches wherever possible
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clean all windows and pull back the curtains so the sun can shine in
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add task lighting to your kitchen – most people don’t have enough. Mount halogen pot lights under your cupboards for optimal counter lighting.
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replace any fixtures/shade that are outdated and unattractive
Keep in mind that you still want your home to have mass appeal, but don’t be afraid to get creative. For a small investment in a funky or unique lamp or fixture, you can add instant character and charm to your home.
Sandy King
www.sandyking.ca
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3 responses so far ↓
Ashish // March 26, 2008 at 11:14 am |
Lighting changes the mood and atmosphere.
Whether you need lighting for special occassions, or for your daily use, there are a wide variety of choices and each lighting style has specific decor to match your theme
cindy*staged4more // March 26, 2008 at 5:57 pm |
Hello
I love this post that you wrote. Would you mind submitting this to the Blog Carnival of Real Estate Home Staging?
Cheers,
Cindy
Organizer, Blog Carnival of Real Estate Home Staging
Kirsten Jean // April 10, 2008 at 1:36 pm |
Your lighting checklist is very helpful. I will remember to check out the lighting in my house. Recently I bought some lighting fixtures from this on-line store http://www.justhomedecor.com/estoreusa/home.php?cat=319 They carry a very nice collection.