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.