traffic

There is a long list of pet peeves in my personal file. They are quirky unimportant things in the scheme of life...but... I don't like it when people who don't know me try to pronounce my last name and jumble mumble a guess. Rarely is it correct.  So annoying!  I don't like it when strangers are in my 'bubble' and stand too close to me. Eww!
O, and this; I especially don't like sitting in church or another large gathering and have a tall person sit right in front of me. Really? There should be rules that those (fortunate) taller people must sit in the back!  I'm barely 5 feet tall on a good day!
And I really really don't care much for clutter!
Sometimes I will be just strolling through my own home when I stumble on someone's shoes left helter-skelter in the way.  Now I must admit, I've been known to assume those shoes were left by someone else (insert "husband") only to look down and notice the shoes are mine! (Sorry honey!)
But when I am going from point A to point B...don't slow me down. I'm usually scrambling to get out the door and hope to leave my home neat and tidy.
I like coming home to a spiffy house. It makes me feel good.  Cozy in fact!  I find it restful and pleasing!
So when we are hired to assist a homeowner with a staging consultation, one of the many things we look for is 'stuff'.  Is there stuff blocking our way through the house?  How is the flow of traffic? Can we get from the entry easily to the main living room, flowing through to the kitchen?  Or do we trip over mulitple area rugs, a basket of shoes and the dog bed to find the charm of a home.
Sometimes we understandably become so comfortable in our own home that it is difficult to see the forest through the trees, ya know?  We can all be a little lax in picking up everything unless we have guests coming.  Goodness gracious~ then I go into high gear to make sure things are neaty all hidden in their place. (I blame my mother for this but that is another blog!)
Flow of traffic is vital in staging a home.  As homeowners we get used to things being cozy that basics are overlooked.  The minor things that make us comfortable can make for some lousy online photos.
When someone enters your home, is the first thing they see the back of a couch?  Does someone have to weave and dodge just to get through to the next room? Take a minute to walk through your traffic pattern and see if moving something over, or switching a chair with the sofa might make the flow better. If you have to turn sideways to squeeze between your dresser and your bed, it is might be time to rethink the layout.
Often times it just takes a little tweaking to open up a space.
No one likes to be stuck in traffic.

Nest

I happily live in a location that allows me to peer through the now fallen foliage to spy on the local highway. I can give a quick traffic report to my family during the dark evening hours letting them know they should go the back way.
We didn't always have such a view. I used to have a itsy bitsy window above my kitchen sink and would stand on my tippy toes to see out.
It wasn't until we remodeled & added on to our home that we were allowed this privileged view. Actually, having a peek at the highway is only available for a few months out of the year. What is truly a blessing is the ability to look through our wall of windows to follow the progress of my favorite maple tree as it goes through the seasons; from neon (literally!) green leaves through the ever changing brilliant hues of oranges and reds to the now bare branches that reveal the bird's nest snuggled and tucked away.
I didn't even realize that tree was host to a robin's home. Though the tree itself is beautiful, this twigged treasure was hidden.
As stagers, we see many homes in the same way. There are beautiful colors and accents to catch our eye, but the real jewel of a home shouldn't be a hidden surprise.
If you have a home you are preparing to list soon, take a good hard look at what 'gem' your home is hiding. It could be a picture window with a large couch blocking it. Or a large but undefined master bedroom that is a combination office and work out room too.
A key to selling a home is making an emotional connection to the potential buyers. Show off the space and the value your home offers. Don't make buyers look for it or worse yet, discover it in another home.
Peel away the veil that hides your home's treasure.

Noticed

Making an entrance! Should someone be a little late, sneaking in unnoticed; otherwise known as being fashionably late? (In those situations, it is usually because one doesn't really want to be 'there' anyway!) Or is this a situation when someone could be comfortable enough to be the life of the party, arriving with confidence knowing that they will be well received?
Have you ever experienced not knowing what to wear to a certain event? It is common to be either overdressed for the occasion or feeling like you did not see the small print that said 'black tie'. Uuh!
This is when it would be nice to have a personal assistant. Someone that would intervene for you, gathering information as to who might be on the guest list and knowing the agenda so you can then make an intelligent decision on how to prepare yourself.
A professional stager is just like that. By working with the homeowner, a stager offers key insight into how your home should be presented.
Just as a realtor has access to the comps in the area, a professional stagers offers assistance on how to dress your house. You don't have to wonder if you should remove that wallpaper...(chances are you should, please!) or if the wall color is too bold.
That is the role a home stager plays. Yeah, the 'life of the party' is a great way to think when you are putting your house on the market. Just as there are many situations and people pulling for your attention, there are a lot of houses begging for a buyer! By keeping in mind potential buyers who might be on the general guest in a neighborhood and the charm of each individual home, a professional home stager is able to be your liaison. The personal assistant; giving you confidence that your home will be the life of the party.

Re-design

What a delight it has been to assist our clients with their redesigning desires this summer. So many are taking this time to re-think their home's interior. With constant bombardment on how to spend money lately, we find many are using their budget to update what they have. Instead of taking on a huge project, it is more convenient to work on a few key areas allowing their home reflect their personality.

You don't have to break the bank to make an impact. So if you are not planning to sell for a bit, surround yourself with personalized color and individual comfort. Done well, it can have a positive impact on how you feel when you walk in your door, and isn't that what home is all about??!
A recent conversation with a client was a great reminder. Sometimes we are more worried about what others will think instead of going with what we love.
Hesitating to put your favorite color on the wall is silly if your only reason is that you don't want to be known as the house with the crazy wall color. But this client really loved a color and stated that it made her happy!! So, go with it! If you plan on staying put for a while, you might as well enjoy your home while you are there. Should you plan to sell your home, that is the time to think neutral.
If a sassy color is something that causes you to pause before painting, ask yourself why. A little bit of sass now and then in the right place might just be the ticket to getting you through the day. We suggest a smaller room such as a bath or bedroom as a start. Also, keep in mind I am not talking of an explosion of color. Just some attitude!
After all, a can of paint is relatively inexpensive and makes quite an impact. Remember shocking pink from top to bottom might be a bit too sassy, but a splash of boldness could just be the perfect look that reflects your personality!

Value

Recently I corresponded with a business associate regarding the housing market. I mentioned of the importance of staging every home and I was met with the reply that staging right now isn't necessary. Hm~
A well considered opinion. Someone's perception of value.
But when did good taste and positive impression become unimportant?
I sure do understand the initial knee-jerk reaction that money is tight and priorities must be established! Absolutely.
We are working through that in our own home and budget. "Do we really need that? " Decisions are tougher now, given more thought due to money flow.
But priorities are shifting also.
What was once important, maybe doesn't seem vital. However, what was a luxury, can also become almost a necessity. I've learned that opportunities lost can bring regret.
Example; We would love a vacation. We look forward to the family time of relaxing, balanced with some crazy flashlight in hand-late night bike rides. Making homemade donuts we shouldn't eat, but feel justified cuz, 'Hey, we're on vacation!"
While a vacation might be a stretch, it is an investment in family & memories. Those don't fade or change with the economic situation.
Those decisions are made not only with what joy we receive, but with the notion it is worth it!
Staging is like that.
It might be a stretch, but it is an investment. There are a lot, and I mean a lot of homes for sale out there. And while spending any extra time or money now seems unimportant, those who are spending their money to purchase their new house are even more careful with their money.

Value is perceived and perception is valuable.

Time

Time is a blessing and a curse. It can consume or give a sense of freedom. It can bring the comfort of boundary, holding things in order. Or time gives us feeling of claustrophobia. Most of us live with the underlying sense of time, constantly aware of how it holds us in its grip throughout our day.
We wake up wondering what time it is. We arrange our schedule by the clock. Appointments need time and we strive to be 'on time', frustrated if the courtesy is not reciprocated. Our recreation even needs time. "I'll be back later."
Later.
Now as it is summer time there is a sense in my life to get things done outside. Pulled in different directions but hoping that now is the time to enjoy the summer. I mean in Oregon when the sun shines you better take it when you can. Summer says "time out." School is out, vacations are planned. I don't want to waste time, but isn't that the point sometimes? To waste it? There is joy in time wasted.
But is there regret in it too?
My daughter and son in law are wondering if now is the time to buy a house. Well, maybe. There are perks for sure in finding just the right spot to call your own. A big decision. One that should be made carefully! With the incentives now for first time home buyers it seems reasonable. So as we discuss the pros and cons of being a home owner and I value the time we share, giving advice to my grown up girl, making grown up decisions.
Time is a gift.

changes

It used to be that I'd recoil at any change. I, as a rule, don't embrace change. But as I've 'matured' it seems that I almost expect it, choosing to accept it. In a perfect world, I'd get to chose and control all things that affect my life, and once approved, I'd set it in stone and call it good.
Yet living in reality, I know that is not an option. O, but what great things I'd miss.
I remember a movie that has the world of Jim Carey living in a bubble. Everything was peachy, day after day. As a viewer I knew it wasn't right, but in his world, it seemed normal. And there lies the problem.
In the last 2 years, I've lost people in my life and gained others; I've learned and flexed. I think most of us are all in the same situation, in one way or another. Perhaps our life style has changed, not because of anything we've planned. Potentially, what these changes bring is an opportunity to see things differently.
Moving might in and of itself bring stress and worry. But perhaps there is a wonder waiting at the end of the road. A new friend, new experiences, things unexpected but good.
I haven't physically moved location, but what I have moved is my outlook and attitude. While I never signed up for some of these life experiences, I certainly am moved by the journey itself.
I have new dear friends that I hadn't even met a year ago. I have a new respect for those in my life that I before took for granted. I still have much to learn, but I am starting to get used to changes, expecting them, and enjoying the journey.

Blogs

It is evident that we have reached a point in our communication style that makes it difficult to go back to just a written note, a quick phone call, or heaven forbid,a 'drop in' visit! If I can't text someone quickly to get my thought out, or ask a quick question, it probably is going to have to wait until I have some extra time on my hands (which is rare!)
It is so convenient to carry on more than one conversation at a time; texting one person while chatting with the one sitting across from me. Can you say multi-tasking? I love email; quick and easy. Get to the point, hit send and I am done! I adore my laptop; I sit cross legged on my couch, favorite CD playing, a wonderful something to drink and away I go!
Twitter, Blogging, Blackberry, the web. All wonderful tools! Yet, I have to admit, when I go out to the mailbox and see a hand written envelope ( a real one, not those fake company fonts that make me question if it is personal), I usually open the envelope before I even make it back to my house. And if it is really special, I put it in that little red basket to read again later.
Most of us feel the same way. We love technology, I use technology, but when it comes right down to it, I kinda miss that personal touch.
A home buyer is like that; first they look online....getting to the bottom line of what that house is like. Is it in the right neighborhood? How many bathrooms? What is the square footage? All this information at the tip of their fingertips! But once all that is analyzed, they still want that personal touch. They want to walk through it, picturing themselves in the home. Such an important aspect is the emotional connection. Though the pictures and the 'stats' bring them in, what really sells a home is the personal touch. You can't get that with technology! Feeling the emotion of a home is what sells a home. Maybe someone will walk away from your house, and mentally put it in their little red basket.

advice

Those of us who are parents know the challenge of having our children actually take our advice. I could come up with a perfect solution to a difficult situation, careful in my selection of words, giving encouragement and love. It would often be met with a reply challenging my understanding or assuming a mother's downright ignorance. The blank expression, possible tears would invoke in me a reaction of frustration.
Ah, but then, ...Oh the wisdom of another! The best friend's mom, the older sister or a mentor could say exactly the same thing and "wha-la' ....Amazing Revelation!!
It seemed as if there was determination to drive me literally bonkers! I would hear myself think..."Isn't that what I said?" But now with their new found wisdom, I realized that the end result was basically what I was hoping for. It didn't matter whether I received the accolades, but there was joy in having the issue resolved.
Advice is like that.
Sometimes it just takes the right wording or credentials to make a difference. As a stager, I find the homeowner will realize the value of what is said, trusting that a professional knows the situation. Quite possibly the realtor offered the same advice, but with a different voice, the listener absorbs. I have learned the beauty of having someone else step in, backing up my desires or advice can work to my advantage. Less stress for me! Sooner or later when my words echo back, I smile to myself.

Focus

Walking through a home that I've never visited before always brings a reaction. It can be a pleasing one if it reflects a similar style to my own; a feeling of connection and ease.
There are many homes that inspire, leaving me with a desire to mimic the same look in my own home. How can I convince my husband that we need all new furnishings and the to-do list must be re-vamped? If only!
Then there are those houses that ignite a response of disappointment. Maybe the house is not quite the 'Brady Bunch' feel, but close. They are stuck in a time warp, comfortable to the homeowner, but rarely to the guest. There is not one thing that is interesting, as all is a distraction.
But look past the shrapnel of decor and there lurking in the room is a lovely fireplace. Can't see the large picture window? It is because those pleated drapes are in the way.
Most rooms host a focal point and staging provides the avenue to show it off. The possibility that the buyer might miss it is a chance you can't take. Once you clear out the personal decor, make that fireplace stand out by drawing attention to it. One carefully placed picture or a framed mirror set on the mantle can make all the difference. You can place a colorful accent on the hearth,whether it be a large vase or a plant. Just make sure you it does not over power the focal point.
If you can't seem to find a focal point in a room, then create one with a thoughtfully placed sitting area or small unique table, accented with color.
Perhaps the look you create will be just the right attention to detail, bringing an offer on your home. You might even inspire someone!

invest

When faced with the decision of color on those walls, where should you start? While painting seems like a chore not for the faint of heart, don't let the idea overwhelm or defeat you before even starting. The most dramatic change can be made in any room for a very small investment. The investment made in a gallon or two of paint will most likely reap a return of 100% IF you carefully chose the right color.
Light colors have a way of making a room feel larger, but a white wall lacks interest.
A common mistake is to assume that new homeowner would prefer white walls, yet the room will lack pizazz. Instead, chose a warm muted color such as a soft green or taupe which will provide a neutral move-in-ready room.
It is best to stay away from 'custom' colors that appeal to a smaller clientele. A red accent wall may be your choice, however it often becomes that stand out factor that will define your home in the purchaser's mind! You want someone to remember your home for its space and charm, not because of that funky red wall!
If you are color challenged, a great place to get updated color ideas is to thumb through some current interior or home themed magazines. They will give a color scheme to inspire you.
It might take a bit of effort, but time invested & the right wall color will create a sense of warmth.

Realtors

Trustworthy.
Competent.
Driven.
Knowledgeable.

I am sure these are terms that you value when doing business with anyone, but especially when choosing a realtor. You've entrusted your most valuable investment into his or her hands. When you decide to list your home, it is a decision not taken lightly.
We have proudly worked with many quality Realtors and one thing we are reminded of over and over is not only their dedication to their clients but also their knowledge of the housing market.
Realtors have a wealth of information available to them that homeowners can trust and respect. They know the best price range in which to list your home based on the comps in your neighborhood; trust their advice. Many Realtors diligently focus on specific neighborhoods, thus giving them an 'inside' scoop.
The disruption and stress that moving can bring can be lightened by choosing the right Realtor. Do your homework on selecting the Realtor that understands your unique situation and the process of selling your home might less painful than you expected!

Outstanding

Breaks in the weather have enabled me to take notice of the local landscape.... my own yard! Goodness gracious, what Winter can do to our little plot of land we call home! As I view my neighbors' yards, it is obvious that we have been hunkered down a bit too long indoors. While my closets, cabinets & files are tidy and well purged, not so much my yard!
While driving through country back roads, I see local nurseries are advertising their best winter-proofed colorful plants, beckoning for my attention. The bursts of sunshine squeezing through the cold days entice me to get out there and give some loving attention to my flower beds.
It is a perfect time for sellers to take a moment to evaluate what others will see when they pull up to their home. Has the winter's harsh elements left some debris? Do your bushes and plants need some trimming?
If you find you don't have much time or interest to devote to your 'curb appeal' consider using some inexpensive potted plants in strategic places, whether in pots on the porch or along the front walk. If you really want to 'cheat' and have your yard look nice for the exterior RMLS pictures, you can put the plant with the cardboard container directly into the ground, making sure to cover the carton well. It will buy you a little time until you can devote more effort.
A few thoughtfully placed plants, some simple pruning and your yard will be photo ready! After all, who wants to buy "ho-hum" when you can have 'outstanding?"

Illuminate

Dreary skies of grey have the ability to invade; sometimes our mood...sometimes our choices...but let's hope never in our home! If a home is dark, you can feel it. As I was welcomed into our clients' homes this winter, I often found myself reaching for the light switch, hoping to brighten each room. Having a sense of claustrophobia in a home is never a selling point! When someone walks into a well lighted home, it can bring a sense of cheer. A mood can be altered easily, and since people do buy out of emotion, let's lighten up!

A simple remedy is to make sure all your windows are clean, allowing as much natural lighting through as the climate allows. Is there a large shrub blocking the picture window? Cut it back! Check all the light fixtures and lamps for burned out light bulbs and always place in the highest wattage bulb allowable.
A little extra light in a dim corner can make all the difference in how a room is reflected to your potential buyers. As long as there are Oregon Winters and until the days grow longer, invest a little time and money to brighten each room.
Cheers!

New

A new year with new plans! Perhaps a new home with new spaces to put old things. As you look with new eyes at your soon-to-be-listed home, consider what others will see. A home 'shopper' will be looking in your cabinets and closets, hoping to find ample space to house their cherished possessions. A closet that is packed full tells the potential buyer there is not enough storage. A cabinet that is overflowing with too many toiletries or a kitchen pantry filled to the brim sends a red flag warning of a lack of storage. It is best to tackle these areas by boxing up what isn't needed or used on a daily basis. Leaving some empty shelves and removing items from the closet floor will give the impression that there is more than enough storage room! Hey, you are going to have to pack it up anyway, right?!