By Trigg McLeod – Director, JMW Real Estate

When it comes to selling your home in Southwest WA, first impressions aren’t just important, they’re everything. In a competitive market like Dunsborough, well-staged homes not only attract more buyers, but they also often sell faster and for higher prices.

At JMW Real Estate, we know the local market — and we know what makes buyers tick. Whether you’re listing a family home in Yallingup, a beachy retreat in Quindalup, or a modern townhouse in central Dunsborough, staging could be the secret ingredient that turns browsers into buyers.

Here’s your guide to staging your home like a pro and how to get started today.

1. Declutter and Depersonalise

Buyers want to imagine themselves living in the home, not you.

  • Pack away personal photos, souvenirs, and items that signal “this is someone else’s house.”
  • Remove excess furniture to make rooms feel larger and more open.
  • Consider hiring a storage unit — it’s a small cost with big benefits.

2. Deep Clean Everything (Yes, Everything)

Grubby grout, streaky windows, and scuffed walls can subconsciously suggest neglect, and that can cost you.

  • Hire professional cleaners or tackle it thoroughly yourself.
  • Don’t forget the hidden areas: behind doors, under rugs, and inside cupboards.

3. Maximise Natural Light

Dunsborough is all about sunshine and sea breezes — let that in!

  • Open all curtains and blinds.
  • Trim any outdoor shrubs blocking light.
  • Use mirrors to reflect light and make smaller rooms feel spacious.

4. Use Coastal and Neutral Styling

Southwest buyers are drawn to clean, coastal aesthetics that mirror the lifestyle: think calming colours, natural textures, and minimalist layouts.

  • Add subtle nods to local style: woven baskets, light timber finishes, soft blues, and creams.
  • Avoid over-styling — simplicity and freshness work best.

5. Highlight Key Lifestyle Areas

In the Southwest, buyers often prioritise:

  • Outdoor living spaces – stage alfrescos with seating, plants, and soft lighting.
  • Open-plan kitchens and lounges – demonstrate how the space can be utilised for entertaining.
  • Home offices or nooks – especially valuable post-COVID.

6. Freshen Up Without Overspending

You don’t need a complete renovation. Focus on low-cost, high-impact updates:

  • A fresh coat of neutral paint can do wonders.
  • Swap dated cabinet handles or light fittings.
  • Replace tired curtains with simple sheer panels.

7. Appeal to the Senses

This is often overlooked, but extremely powerful.

  • Use scented candles, fresh flowers, or a subtle diffuser.
  • Play soft music during inspections.
  • Bake cookies before an open home (yes, it still works!).

8. Add Local Touches That Feel “Right”

Buyers in Dunsborough aren’t just buying a home; they’re buying into a lifestyle.

  • Stage with items that reflect the region: local surf mags, native plants, or Margaret River wine bottles in the kitchen.
  • A bike on the porch, a board in the garage, subtle cues help buyers imagine life here.

Ready to Sell? Book Your Free Property Valuation Today

Selling your home doesn’t need to be stressful. With expert staging advice and deep local knowledge, JMW Real Estate can help you make the best first impression — and achieve the best possible result.

Book your free property valuation now and take the first step toward a standout sale.