You know that feeling when you walk into someone’s home and something just feels off, but you can’t quite place it? I’ll tell you what it often is: artwork hung way too high.
And I would know — I’ve walked through hundreds, if not thousands, of homes in Edmonton with buyers. I’ve seen firsthand what makes them pause, what makes them cringe, and what makes them fall in love.

At Iconic YEG, we don’t just put a sign on your lawn and hope for the best. We fine-tune every detail that makes your property irresistible — in photos and in person. Whether you're prepping for your first showing or getting ready for real estate photos, here's what Edmonton homeowners need to know to stand out in this market — and get top dollar.

1. First Impressions Happen Fast — Nail the Entry

After curb appeal, the moment your front door opens is everything.
Edmonton buyers decide — instantly — how they feel about your home. And that gut reaction? It sticks. Even if the rest of the house is beautiful, it won’t matter if the entry feels cluttered, dim, or underwhelming.

I’ve seen it too many times: if the first room, first sightline, and first feeling don’t land well, buyers mentally check out — even if the kitchen is stunning.

What they see when they step inside — the lighting, the windows, the styling — sets the tone. If you want forgiveness for future imperfections, this is where you earn it.

Pro tips:

• Keep the entryway wide open and clutter-free

• Style with a mirror or art (at the right height!) to add impact

• Make sure the first sightline includes natural light or a thoughtfully styled focal point

• Don’t block windows or crowd furniture near the entrance

• If you have pets, make their gear invisible for showings

2. Let’s Talk About That Art. Yes, That One.

Too many Edmonton homeowners hang art as if they’re trying to impress a giraffe.
The ideal height? Center of the piece should sit at about 57–60 inches from the floor — that’s standard eye level. If your ceilings are sky-high, resist the urge to go vertical. The art needs to connect with the furniture, not float above it like a confused balloon.

Poorly placed art does more than bug people like me. It throws off sightlines, looks awkward in listing photos, and creates a subtle sense of disconnection. In a competitive market, that’s enough to make buyers swipe past your listing.

Pro tip: In staging, art should complement, not dominate. Group smaller pieces in a gallery layout, and keep larger pieces centered above furniture — ideally no wider than two-thirds the width of what’s beneath it.

3. Less Stuff, More Space

Buyers aren’t just buying your Edmonton home — they’re buying their dream version of life in that space.
If every surface is stacked with memories, knickknacks, and paperwork, it’s hard for them to picture themselves there.

Clear the clutter.
Edit aggressively. Then edit again.
Think of it like a pre-move detox: your future self will thank you, and your buyer will fall in love faster.

4. Light It Right — Yes, Even the Bulbs

Lighting isn’t just “on or off.”
The type of light matters. Harsh white light makes rooms feel cold and clinical, while overly yellow light can feel dated.

The sweet spot for Edmonton homes?
3000K “soft white” LED bulbs. They create a warm, clean glow that looks great in person and in photos. Replace every bulb with consistent temperature lighting across the home. Mismatched bulbs = mismatched vibes.

And always:

• Turn on every light before showings

• Open every blind (Edmonton light is GOLDEN when you use it right)

• Replace dated or dusty fixtures if budget allows

5. Know Your Edmonton Buyer

Every home has a story — and a likely audience.
Are you in Oliver or Strathcona? You’re probably attracting professionals or investors. Selling in Windermere or Secord? Think growing families.

Prep your home to speak directly to your most likely buyer.
Stage a home office. Create a cozy reading nook. Add just enough personality that they can imagine living — and thriving — there.

And yes, create Instagram-worthy spaces.
Buyers scroll listings the way people scroll social media. You want them to stop, gasp a little, and send it to their agent or partner saying, “Look at this one!”

6. The Nose Knows

Scent is one of the fastest ways to lose a buyer. Pet smells, strong air fresheners, and last night’s garlic dinner are major turnoffs.

Aim for a neutral, clean scent. Fresh air is best, with maybe a subtle note of citrus or vanilla. Avoid candles or plugins that overpower. It should smell like home, not a cover-up.

7. Fix What’s Broken (Yes, Even That)

That wobbly doorknob, the squeaky closet door, the chipped baseboard — you may not notice them anymore, but buyers do.
And every little flaw creates a tiny question in their mind: If they didn’t fix that… what else didn’t they fix?

Repair before you list. Edmonton buyers are savvy, and a small investment now saves you thousands in negotiations later.

8. Street-Level Curb Appeal

Your home’s first impression happens before they ever step inside.
Tidy up the yard. Shovel the walks (hello, YEG winters). Power wash the steps. Paint your front door. Add planters in the spring and fall. Keep it simple, but intentional.

Think: "If a stranger drove by right now, would they want to see inside?"

9. Think Photos First — But Prep with Purpose

Online photos are your home’s digital handshake.
If it doesn’t look great on a screen, you’ve lost the buyer before they’ve even booked a showing.

Before photos:

• No garbage bins in sight

• No toilet seats up

• No cords or clutter

• Lights on, blinds open

• Everything styled but minimal

At Iconic YEG, we don’t just show up with a camera. We help you tell a visual story that resonates with your Edmonton buyer.

10. Why White Bedding Works Wonders

If there’s one simple swap that can instantly elevate a bedroom, it’s white bedding.

It’s clean. It’s fresh. It photographs beautifully. And it creates the feeling of a hotel — calm, luxurious, and move-in ready.
Dark, patterned, or mismatched bedding can make a space feel busy or dated, even if everything else is right.

For Edmonton sellers, this is a no-brainer.
We deal with long winters and low natural light, so you want to reflect every ounce of brightness you can. White bedding does that, while also making the space feel bigger, lighter, and emotionally neutral.

Pro tip: Add one or two neutral accent pillows or a soft throw for texture — but keep it simple. You want the buyer thinking, “I want to sleep here tonight,” not “Whose duvet is this?”

Final Word: Preparation Isn’t Optional — It’s Everything

Staging isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about emotion.
When buyers walk through your home, you want them to feel: calm, inspired, like this is the one.

That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when details are dialed in — from art height to lightbulbs to the scent in the air.
And it happens when you know who you’re trying to attract and speak to them visually — with clarity and style.

I’ve spent my career studying buyer behavior in Edmonton. If it feels like I’m nitpicking, it’s because I’ve seen these things matter. I’ve watched buyers fall in love because of a warm light and a perfect entry. And I’ve watched them walk out because of a weird smell or crooked art.

Preparation matters more than anything else.
If you rush this step or skip it entirely, you are leaving days on the market and thousands of dollars on the table.
So slow down. Do it right. Create spaces worth falling in love with — and sharing.

Thinking of selling your Edmonton home?
Whether you need help decluttering, restyling, or re-hanging that Monet — we’ve got you.

Let’s make your home the one they can’t stop thinking about.

About Caitlin Heine – Iconic YEG | RE/MAX Real Estate

Caitlin Heine is a full-time REALTOR® and the owner of Iconic YEG | RE/MAX Real Estate in Edmonton, Alberta. Known for her warm but direct communication style, deep market knowledge, and fierce client advocacy, Caitlin helps buyers and sellers navigate the Edmonton real estate market with confidence and clarity.

With a background in marketing, leasing, and large-scale residential projects, Caitlin brings strategic pricing, high-impact marketing, and skilled negotiation to every transaction. She believes buying or selling a home should be a clear, empowering experience — never a guessing game or high-pressure sale.

Caitlin works best with clients who value straight answers, smart strategy, and a human-first approach. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading for more space, or selling to start your next chapter, she provides personalized guidance, data-driven advice, and a trusted partnership from start to finish.

📞 Call/Text: 587-336-3176
📧 Email: caitlin@iconicyeg.com
🌐 Website: iconicyeg.com
📍 Office: RE/MAX Real Estate, 200, 10835 124 Street NW, Edmonton, AB

Selling a home is a significant milestone, and in today’s competitive real estate market, making a great first impression is crucial. One of the most effective ways to ensure your home stands out is through professional home staging. At Iconic YEG Real Estate, we understand the transformative power of home staging and how it can significantly impact your home's marketability and final sale price. Here’s why staging is a game-changer when preparing to list your home for sale.

1. Creating a Memorable First Impression

First impressions are everything in real estate. When potential buyers walk into a home, they make up their minds within the first few minutes. A well-staged home can create an emotional connection with buyers, making them envision themselves living in the space. Staging highlights the home's best features, showcases its potential, and sets the stage for a positive viewing experience.

2. Maximizing Space and Functionality

Home staging involves strategically arranging furniture and decor to maximize space and enhance the functionality of each room. By doing so, staging can make small spaces appear larger and more inviting. Professional stagers know how to use layout, lighting, and accessories to make every room feel open, airy, and welcoming, which can be a significant advantage in attracting buyers.

3. Highlighting Key Features

Every home has unique features that set it apart from others. Whether it’s a cozy fireplace, a stunning view, or a beautifully designed kitchen, staging helps to draw attention to these key elements. By highlighting the best aspects of your home, staging ensures that buyers remember the standout features that make your property special.

4. Depersonalizing the Space

One of the primary goals of home staging is to create a neutral environment where buyers can imagine their own lives unfolding. This often involves depersonalizing the space by removing personal items, family photos, and unique decor. A neutral, yet stylish, setup allows buyers to focus on the home itself rather than being distracted by the current owner’s personal tastes.

5. Accelerating the Sale Process

Staged homes tend to sell faster than non-staged homes. According to industry statistics, staged homes spend less time on the market, often leading to quicker sales. This is because staging helps buyers see the potential of the home, making them more likely to make an offer sooner rather than later.

6. Increasing the Sale Price

Investing in home staging can yield a significant return on investment. Staged homes not only sell faster but also often sell for a higher price. Buyers are willing to pay more for a home that looks move-in ready and beautifully maintained. Staging can help you achieve a higher final sale price, making it a smart financial decision.

7. Professional Photography

In today’s digital age, the majority of homebuyers start their search online. Professional staging sets the stage for high-quality real estate photography, which is crucial for making your home stand out in online listings. Beautifully staged homes look more appealing in photos, attracting more potential buyers to schedule viewings.

Partner with Iconic YEG Real Estate for Expert Home Staging

At Iconic YEG Real Estate, we understand that selling your home is a big decision, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. Our team works with professional stagers to ensure your home is presented in the best possible light. From initial consultation to final touches, we guide you through the staging process to maximize your home’s appeal and market value.

If you’re preparing to list your home for sale, don’t underestimate the power of home staging. Contact us today to learn more about our home staging services and how we can help you achieve a successful and profitable sale. Let Iconic YEG Real Estate make your home stand out in Edmonton’s competitive real estate market.

By incorporating these elements into your blog, you can effectively communicate the benefits of home staging and position Iconic YEG Real Estate as a knowledgeable and helpful partner in the home selling process.

Contact us today at caitlin@iconicyeg.com or 587-336-3176

The Iconic team was lucky enough to be introduced to the founders of Plenish this week before they establish their operations in Edmonton.  I say lucky, because it is clear they are about to be so busy, I may never get a chance to have a one on one conversation again with them in the future.  So what is Plenish?

Plenish was founded out of two friends’ vision for a better furniture industry. As both were navigating major life events like marriage, having babies and obtaining their master degrees in 2020; furnishing their new homes became an arduous challenge due to the costs and inconveniences involved with traditional purchases or rentals - something they had experienced all too often during their 10+ moves over the last decade.

Seeing this issue as one shared by many others looking for easy-to-access home customization options amidst rising costs of living & transient lifestyles, they created 'Plenish': A stylish subscription service that would alleviate any worry around wasting time searching stores or disposing of damaged items; With 12 million tonnes going into landfills yearly!

Plenish was founded on the simple idea that people should be able to enjoy quality furniture without having to commit long-term. With its flexible terms of 1-12 months, customers can access premium pieces while also benefiting from cost savings - all tailored around their ever changing lifestyle needs. Not only is sustainability a key part of Plenish's story with products built for longevity and refurbished items moved onto new homes; but users are also given an extra degree of freedom through options such as being able swap or return goods when desired, ensuring they never pay more than retail price in the process. Now everyone has a chance at creating home styles which reflect today’s modern ages!

With the Plenish team continuing to grow, their vision for creating beautiful and functional spaces across Canada is quickly becoming a reality. All ready in Vancouver and Toronto, they are heading to Edmonton next! They bring life into once empty rooms by helping people turn them into homes with timeless furniture pieces. As they continue down this path of success there's no telling how many more cities will soon be blessed with their work as Plenish continues its mission become a household name in home furnishings!

Iconic, as a team who requires short to long term staging for show suites and furnished rentals, we were absolutely amazed at the affordability, flexibility and sheer range of options Plenish offers.  Mark my words, Plenish is one to watch and I can’t wait to see them dominate in this industry.

For more information, check out Plenish HERE

Selling your home can be both exciting and stressful. It is important to make sure that your home is in prime condition before you put it on the market. To make your home attractive to potential buyers, take some time to prepare it properly so that its value is maximized. Here are a few tips on how to get your house ready for sale:

1. Make Necessary Repairs: Take care of any repairs or maintenance tasks that need to be done, such as fixing a broken window or patching up holes in the wall. This will help show buyers that they won’t have to do any major work when they move into the house.
2. Clean and Declutter: A clean and clutter-free house will appear more inviting and spacious to potential buyers. Vacuum, mop floors, scrub bathrooms, dust surfaces, and organize closets so each room looks its best. Get rid of furniture and items you don't need anymore or consider renting a storage unit for those items until after your home is sold.
3. Freshen Up Interiors: Give the walls a fresh coat of paint, replacing worn carpets with new ones if necessary and replacing outdated fixtures with modern ones--all of which can give the impression that everything in the home is still new and updated. When selecting colors for painting walls, choose neutral shades such as white or light gray so that buyers can better visualize themselves living in the space.
4. Enhance Curb Appeal: The exterior of your home should look just as appealing as the inside if you want it to sell quickly! Paint railings and door frames if necessary; power wash siding; trim trees; edge lawns; and add colorful plants or flowers near entryways. Don’t forget about lighting either–make sure there are adequate lights around walkways, porches, garages, etc., so people feel safe coming at night to view your property.
5. Consider Hiring a Professional Home Inspector: Before potential buyers come over, hire an experienced local inspector who can examine all aspects of the house from plumbing issues to heating systems ensuring there are no underlying issues with the property that could affect its value during negotiations later on down the line.

Last but not least, contact us at Iconic YEG - we can guide you through each step and what to do to prepare your home for sale and get the best returns. By taking these steps to prepare your home for sale ahead of time will save you time (and money!) throughout the process by maximizing how much interest buyers have in your property from start through close - resulting in potentially higher offers from more qualified buyers who are actually interested in moving forward with buying it!