Home Sale Success with Karen and Ann

The Key to Updating

2012-02-14T08:39:00.000-08:00

By now everyone knows a house on the market should be updated. To truly inspire potential buyers, a house on the market must look and feel "current". That means not only must it be well-cared for despite the age, but the fixtures and the furnishings must also help the house feel updated.

Updating of fixtures has been well covered. That means light fixtures such as chandeliers, vanity lights, and ceiling fixtures should be newer designs and finishes. Faucets in the kitchens and baths should be the same. Brass and dated styles of cabinet doors should be changed. Other major changes such as dated tile floors, and colored bath tubs and toilets should be changed if the price point of the house warrants it.

Houses should be freshly painted on the interior. If power-washing doesn't take care of the exterior, that should be done as well. And here is the first area of resistance for many sellers. Fresh paint on the interior may very well include removing wallpaper and painting the trim, particularly if it is stained. Stained woodwork in a house where that isn't style-appropriate (generally meaning a contemporary or an antique) will instantly date a house. When potential buyers walk in the front door of a traditional center-hall colonial and see the door moldings and baseboards stained, they immediately feel as if the house is dated - even with the updates I mentioned earlier. And I'll go a step further......trim needs to match the doors. So if the trim has to be painted white, so do the doors. I certainly understand resistance to both removing wallpaper and painting doors and trim. It's very messy if the sellers do it and expensive if painting contractors do it. But I believe it is something that must be done in almost every case. (I say almost because I have found exceptions to every rule. But the exceptions are very rare.)

Once the updating of the house has been done comes the second area of resistance for the sellers. The furnishings must be updated. It's very hard for sellers to get past dated furnishings, even if they aren't tired and worn. And while I completely understand sellers having a hard time understanding that furniture they have loved over the years isn't the furniture that appeals to current buyers, changes should still be made to give them a more current feel. That doesn't mean the sellers must start from scratch. It simply means they must make some changes that will downplay the dated look of the furnishings, which can make the house itself feel dated.

There are some easy ways to do that - ways that don't cost a lot of money. Here are a few:

Remove accessories that speak to a more traditional decorating scheme and replace them with something more current. That means the collection of Lladro should be removed and replaced with something that may still feel traditional, but in an updated way. A pretty bowl filled with glass balls may be just the thing.
Add texture. Wicker can be an excellent choice, particularly when it is in a more traditional style.
Throws in current colors (that will blend with the current furnishings) are another good way to add not only texture, but also spots of color to move the potential buyers' eyes around the room. Pillows can do the same thing.
Remove dated table coverings such as table cloths, doilies or runners and let the wood speak for itself.
Remove rugs and let the wood floor be a focal point - one that will also help to sell the house.
Remove dated window treatments, particularly valances. Leave the panels if the fabric isn't dated or leave the windows bare to let in light and the view.
Change lamps to something a bit more contemporary. Even switching lamp shades may be helpful.
Replace or remove dated artwork.
Replace bedding to newer styles and colors.
If furniture still remains a problem, can you remove some of it? Slipcover it? Cover it with a contemporary cloth that reaches to the floor? If the space feels a bit bare when furniture is removed, add a beautiful silk tree or plant.

If you are moving, you certainly don't want to spend a lot of money on things you don't want to move to your new home. But many of these items can be purchased inexpensive at stores like Home Goods or Marshall's. Tag sales and Goodwill may also be good sources as long as you make sure you are buying updated looks. You may be able to borrow from friends. Real estate stagers will often have items that can be rented on a monthly basis at a cost much less than the cost of buying. And something that may be helpful is to remember that the cost of making these changes to increase the appeal of your home is well worth the cost of selling your home quickly. Just compare it to the cost of your first price drop and you'll see what I mean.

Ann Anderson is the owner of Rooms Reborn, the founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, the co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and the co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Love at First Sight

2012-02-10T05:46:00.000-08:00

As we get ready to celebrate Valentine's Day, what better time to discuss the subject of falling in love. After all, when you're preparing your home for sale, your goal is to get buyers to fall in love with your house.

Just like all other matters of the heart, the home buying process is extremely emotional. How can savvy sellers use this to their advantage? Let me count the ways......

A great place to start helping your house elicit the love response, is by using psychology to engage your buyers' 5 senses: sight, smell, hearing, touch and taste. Today we'll start with sight.

1. Buyers react emotionally to what they see so it's up to you the seller to make sure everything your buyers see elicits a POSITIVE emotional response. Start by making sure the exterior of your home cries out to your buyers, compelling them to come inside to see more. And just in case you didn't already know this, things like peeling paint, cracks in the driveway and junk car collections are NOT going to put your buyers in the mood for anything (except maybe moving on to the next house on their list) so be sure to fix or remove anything that looks like its in need of repair.

Once inside, the lighting will immediately affect the way a buyer feels in your home - and remember - you want them to feel good. If your house is being shown during the day, make sure you're using the natural light your house receives to its maximum potential. Open the drapes, lift the blinds and let that warm, nurturing healthful sunlight shine in.

Getting in touch with Mother Nature soothes, relaxes and calms us in more ways than we may realize, so make sure you NEVER cover up a window that offers a beautiful view. Window treatments need to complement the scenery NOT compete with it - so very often the best thing your window could be wearing is.......nothing at all. Bright, unnatural and fluorescent lighting will do little to turn your buyers on, so be sure to brighten those dark corners with soft lamp lighting that mimics daylight.

Stay tuned.....in my next post I will share more about how to engage the other senses. Happy Valentines Day!

Can You Stage Too Much?

2012-02-07T06:43:00.000-08:00

I received a call from a Realtor who would like for me to do a staging consultation on a house the seller has already 'staged'.....unfortunately a bit too much! That can happen when sellers focus on what they read about staging. And that can turn a house with potential into one that is bland and uninteresting.

So what does it mean to stage too much? Here are some ideas that may help:

Decluttering is great. You want the potential buyers to see the house, not all of your stuff. BUT don't take away everything so that it becomes boring. Accessories are wonderful in moderation, which means one or three items (depending on the size of the surface). Make sure they aren't personal - and add a plant for color and softness.
Eliminate furniture so the buyers can easily walk through the rooms. Main walkways should be at least 36" wide and never intersect a conversation area. BUT don't take out so much furniture that the rooms look bare. Furniture should be used to enhance the emotional impact of the space and draw attention to the architectural elements that will help sell the house. (Think cozy conversations in front of the fireplace.) Removing too much furniture will make the rooms feel cold and empty.
Neutral paint colors are good. You don't want the potential buyers to notice (and perhaps dislike) your strong color choices. BUT don't go too neutral so the house feels boring - and white is rarely a good choice because it can be very cold. Choose instead colors that bring warmth into the space without overpowering it. Colors with a hint of yellow or gold are good choices. And stay away from blue!
Adding color in pillows and throws is a great way to add warmth and interest. BUT make sure you choose one color and add pillows on the sofa, a throw on a chair, and an accessory on a table that keep the potential buyers' eyes moving throughout the space.
Remove all the throw rugs including runners down the hallway and the rug in front of the sink. BUT an area rug under the main conversation area (a minimum of 5' x 8') help to ground that seating area. And bathroom rugs (as large as possible) that match the color of the floor bring softness to a hard space.

There is a fine line between not enough or too much and just perfect. Keeping in mind the importance of moderation while maintaining interest can help make the distinction.

Ann Anderson is the owner of Rooms Reborn, the founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, the co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and the co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make #1

2012-02-02T19:48:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them

I've been posting my top 10 list of common costly mistakes home sellers make and how to avoid them. Today we finally make it to #1. Here's a recap....

MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house before preparing it for market
MISTAKE #9: Selling “AS IS”
MISTAKE #8: Over-Improving
MISTAKE #7: Covering up Known Defects
MISTAKE #6: Not Containing or Relocating Pets
MISTAKE #5: Selling Before You’re Emotionally Ready
MISTAKE #4: Failing to De-Clutter
MISTAKE #3: De-Cluttering Too Much
MISTAKE #2: Underestimating the Importance of Curb

And finally.........MISTAKE #1: Overpricing Your Home.

Be realistic when it comes to pricing your home. The market dictates what it is worth, not you and not your agent. How much you owe or how much money you need for your next house has nothing to do with what your current house is worth.

In today’s challenging real estate market you must be objective! Don’t let the love you have for your home (and the memories it contains) cloud your judgment when pricing it. Listen to the advice of real estate professionals who know your neighborhood well - even if they’re telling you something you may not want to hear. This is by far THE MOST IMPORTANT thing you can do to achieve a successful home sale.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Targeting Your Buyers Isn't New

2012-01-30T11:28:00.000-08:00

I saw a staging website a few days ago that promised a new way of staging homes......they would target the market of potential buyers for this particular house. I must say I was very surprised. Not because this is a revolutionary new way of doing things. But because it was being marketed as such. The number one rule of marketing is to know who your buyer is. Why would staging be any different?

As a stager, my goal is to prepare houses for sale so that they appeal to the largest number of buyers. And the best way to do that is know who that pool of buyers is. Then work with the sellers to make that house appeal to those particular buyers.

The easiest way to do that is work hand-in-hand with the Realtor. The Realtor knows who this style house in this particular neighborhood and in this price range will appeal to. For example, a four bedroom colonial on a cul-de-sac may very well be a family home for the move-up buyer. A three-bedroom cape may be a nice starter home for a young (and probably small) family, while the condo on the water probably appeals to young professionals or perhaps the empty nesters. And the Realtor will also know about other houses on the market in that price range and can help the stager and the sellers make the best choices on where to spend the staging dollars. And that is important information for the stager for several reasons. Here are just a few:

A starter home may not need fancy upgrades such as granite countertops, so perhaps money can be spent new carpeting and paint in the basement rec room. Or making the backyard area inviting for play and family barbeques.
Move-up buyers may be interested in entertaining, so a nice living room for the adults and an inviting family room for the older children and their friends may be important. And of course upgrades in the important areas like kitchens and baths may help make a statement.
Young professionals and empty nesters don't need to worry about children (unless it's grandchildren) but may enjoy entertaining adult friends. So an openness and a casual elegance may help to sell the home.

Of course if the house is vacant, the stager is able to select furnishings that will appeal to the targeted buyer. If the house is furnished, the stager may need to become creative to make sure the furnishings appeal to the targeted buyers. If there is no Realtor involved, the stager needs to do research on his or her own to determine the target market. But that's what staging is all about, and what a professional stager is paid to do. And that's definitely not a 'new' way of doing things.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

What DO You Stage When Your House is Vacant?

2012-01-24T10:22:00.000-08:00

Staging vacant properties can pose one of the biggest dilemmas for anyone preparing houses for sale, whether it's their own house or someone else's. And the answer is the same as to many other staging questions - it depends. Of course fully furnishing a vacant home is wonderful, but not usually an option most sellers choose. So what are the areas to focus on?

First is smell. While this is important in any house that's on the market, when a house is vacant, smell may be a very big issue. Empty houses or houses where no one is living may smell dank, musty, and generally uninviting. So whatever other decisions you make about staging, do something to make it smell good. Unfortunately this doesn't mean artificial scents, which eliminates things like plug-ins. Better choices are drops of essential oils (preferably in citrus scents, although lavender may work as well) placed on light bulbs so that when the lights are turned on, the smell strengthens. Reed diffusers may also work as long as the oils are essential and have no chemicals in them. Try opening bars of Ivory soap and tying with a ribbon in bathrooms. Not only does that add a pretty touch, but it also makes the bathroom smell fresh.

Smell certainly helps a vacant home feel more inviting, but it doesn't necessarily make it feel warm. And that begins with curb appeal. Houses that are vacant often look forlorn. Avoid that by placing pots of evergreens by the front door. Flowers in spring are nice, but if no one is around to water them they won't stay nice for long. Evergreens (or greenery of any kind - just make sure it's appropriate to the weather and the season) can go for longer periods without being watered.

And of course the first impression the potential buyers have of the interior is when they open the door. The entryway should be inviting, which usually means at least a large area rug on the floor. An entry table is also a nice touch, even if it's a skirted pressboard table with a lamp and an interesting accessory. Lamps (as long as there are plugs) also help create a warm, inviting feeling upon entering the house.

If possible, setting up a simple furniture arrangement in rooms that are visible from the entry is ideal. Potential buyers then feel invited into the space, whether because of the colors or of the softness of fabrics. These arrangements don't have to fill the room, but only suggest how it can be used. And if there is any question of what the room is used for, there should be furnishings that indicate what that is. This is true regardless of whether this room is visible from the entry hall or not. If potential buyers don't understand the purpose of a room, it will be wasted space to them.

Pay attention to those features of the house that will be important to potential buyers. That means a large piece of artwork above the mantel will draw attention to a feature many buyers want in a home. Panels framing either side of a large picture window with a beautiful view will draw attention to the window while softening the hard lines. This is a must if the molding around the window is unattractive. A basket with a couple of towels and a nicely scented bar of soap will set the stage for a jacuzzi tub.

Utilitarian rooms with cold features (kitchens and bathrooms) should be softened with a few decorative items. Towels in bathrooms bring softness, while utensils by the stove and canisters on the counter top help buyers visualize what using this kitchen may be like. And a bowl of fruit can bring a dash of color to an otherwise sparse room.

Even vacant houses can be appealing if you focus on first impressions, think creatively, and pay attention to areas potential buyers are most interested in. Just remember that without furnishings any flaws can be the focus, so stage accordingly.

Ann Anderson is the owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make #2

2012-01-19T19:31:00.000-08:00

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make - #2

Here's a list of Costly Mistakes........don't stand in the way of your own success - avoid these costly mistakes that home sellers often make.

MISTAKE #2: Underestimating the Importance of Curb Appeal.

It’s true - you only get one chance to make a great first impression. Make every effort to make the outside of your house look spectacular. Most buyers will keep on driving if they don’t like what they see from the street. There are so many inexpensive ways to boost your homes curb appeal. It will be time well spent.

If buyers find the view from the curb unappealing and actually go inside, it’s going to very hard to impress them....they just might come in to look for more reasons NOT to buy. Check out Ann's Landscaping Checklist.

MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house before preparing it for market
MISTAKE #9: Selling “AS IS”
MISTAKE #8: Over-Improving
MISTAKE #7: Covering up Known Defects
MISTAKE #6: Not Containing or Relocating Pets
MISTAKE #5: Selling Before You’re Emotionally Ready
MISTAKE #4: Failing to De-Clutter
MISTAKE #3: De-Cluttering Too Much

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Effective Open Houses

2012-01-16T10:42:00.000-08:00

Although many Realtors doubt the effectiveness of open houses to help sell homes, sellers usually consider them an important part of the Realtors' marketing efforts. And while they may not often be the direct cause of a sale, they may still be important to the entire sales process, especially when you keep in mind a few points.

First, make sure when you schedule the open house there are no other events going on of local or national interest. That means avoid graduation weekends, major sports events (again, local or national), and holidays to name a few. Often selecting days when there has been very little going on in recent weeks can ensure a larger turnout. People are anxious to get out and do something and coming to your open house may be just the ticket.

The day selected may also take into consideration what's going on in the rest of the neighborhood. If there is a neighbor who works at home in a noisy profession or who has customers going in and out you may want to schedule the open house during non-working hours. This is also true if the house is on a busy street so traffic flow would be less.

Time of day is important as well. You want to show the house off in the best light, so bright daylight hours are important. But if the family room gets very hot afternoon sun, late morning may be a better time for scheduling.

Different methods of advertising may also increase open house traffic. Most Realtors advertise open houses in the newspaper and online. But perhaps inviting friends and neighbors may also be a good idea. Perhaps they know someone who is looking for a house in this neighborhood. Or perhaps they already live in the area but are looking for something that is smaller or larger. You will have curious neighbors anyway, so you may as well encourage them to come and bring their friends!

Knowing when there are other open houses in the area can also help. Serious buyers are more likely to come to yours if they can see more than one house at the same time.

Then, of course, make the visitors feel welcome. If you are the owner, please don't stay for the open house. But leave the house sparkling, smelling inviting, and have a plateful of goodies for those who do drop by. And make sure your pets are away for the day. The pets and the visitors will all thank you!

Ann Anderson is the owner of Rooms Reborn, the founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and the co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Nourishing Yourself and Your Buyers

2012-01-09T12:54:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate to be a guest last week on Jennifer Hofmann's Rest and Nourish Series, which consists of interviews during the month with a number of people about how we nourish ourselves. My responses (surprise, surprise) have to do with the space in which I live. But I also realized as I was sharing with Jennifer and her audience that the things I was talking about also have to do with tips and techniques I use when I am staging a home. While that may not be surprised to a lot of people, it really brought the entire concept of staging full circle for me.

Of course when we stage a house on the market, we are appealing emotionally to the potential buyers. We want them to imagine living in the house even while they are surrounded by furnishings that aren't theirs. And the techniques I use to do that are the same techniques I use in my own home. And that all begins with the five senses.

When I walk into my home, I want it to smell good. Isn't that an important technique stagers use as well? Of course in my own home I use scents that may be more personal than I would use in a house on the market. But I still use essential oils rather than anything unnatural. And I love clean fresh scents (lemon, citrus, orange), relaxing scents (lavender, bergamont), and scents that remind me of home (vanilla). Which are the same scents I would use when I am staging.

I also want the house to look pretty, which means I do a quick pick-up in the morning and evening so I can clearly see the things I love without being overwhelmed or distracted. While I make sure the things I see are the things I love in my own home, I position the furnishings so the potential buyers see things they will love in the house on the market. That means the fireplace, beautiful views, and inviting seating areas.

Colors are of course important. In my own home they are my favorite colors, but I use them in a way that moves my eye through the room and creates a sense of connection throughout the entire house. And that's what I do for houses on the market. I may use more subtle colors but they aren't boring and the effect is the same.

Texture is important in my own home. I love soft fabrics in the winter (chenille, velvets, soft wools) and those with either a smooth texture (cottons and silks) or nubbiness (wicker, sisal) in the summer. When I stage a house on the market I take into consideration not only the time of the year but also the overall feel of the house. I know a house I stage in July may still be on the market in October (even though we hope it isn't!), so I may find it necessary to swap out a few of the silk pillows for chenille and add a throw or two. But if the house feels like a summer house (it has lots of windows or perhaps a great outdoor entertaining area), I may stick with that summertime feel regardless of the time of year. Who doesn't like to imagine barbecuing on the deck on a hot day when it's 30 degrees outside? And one of the best ways I know to do that is through the use of the appropriate textures.

Taste and hearing are also important both in my own home and those I stage. Because scent and taste are closely related, if I have a wonderful homey scent in the kitchen (vanilla, cinnamon, apple), I can almost taste baked goods. And if there is an unpleasant sound (traffic, the neighbor's dog), soft music makes it much less noticeable.

My home or my clients' homes, living or preparing to sell - they really are the same thing!

Staging Bathrooms

2012-01-03T07:24:00.001-08:00

Pretty cut-and-dried, isn't it? It needs to be clean - really, really clean with sparkling tiles, grout, and fixtures. It needs new towels. But it's a bathroom, right?

It certainly is, but there are still a lot of touches you can add to give it some pizazz! And I'm not talking about updating although that may be important as well. But if that money isn't in the budget or it makes more sense to spend it elsewhere, there are still some of the things you can do to make a bathroom a little less humdrum.

First, paint can make a big difference. Not only will that make the bathroom feel very fresh and clean, it can create interest in a space that doesn't have much. And while you don't want to choose a color that's totally wild, because it's a small space a more dramatic color may be okay. While it's usually still a good idea to stay in the neutral family, feel free to go darker than you normally would. Just make certain there is enough light so potential buyers can see the room. And keep the rest of the lines of the room clean and spare.

A rug on the floor is very important to soften all the hard, cold lines. But because the space is usually small, you don't want a lot of small, colorful rugs that will further break up the space. Add one rug in the largest size possible for the room. And choose a color that matches the floor. This will lessen the impact on the size of the room while still adding softness.

Make the room pretty (and keep it from feeling too empty) with one or two well-placed accessories. A well-cared for plant, towels tied with ribbons, an attractive soap dish with a new bar of fancy soap, or a pretty dispenser with hand lotion are all nice touches. If there is room around the tub, make it feel like a spa with a basket of spa treatments such as soap, a towel, and a loofah.

There are also a few things you need to remove. First, all personal items should be either packed away or well-hidden in baskets with lids. That includes everything personal on the counter tops and in the medicine cabinet and linen closet. Even things like toothbrushes and toothpaste are unsightly and should be removed from counters. If you have a toilet seat cover, remove it. Any rugs other than the one larger one mentioned above should go.

As you stage your bathroom, think of a hotel bathroom. You want it pretty, but impersonal. Even though everyone knows you are using it if you are living in the house, potential buyers don't want to be reminded of it. Rather, they want a room that feels open, inviting, and fresh - ready for them to move right in!

Ann Anderson is the owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

The Importance of Lighting

2011-12-28T11:52:00.000-08:00

Karen and I are taking a little time off this week, so we're sharing a post from the National Associationof Realtors blog Staged Styled and Sold. Thank you Sharon Brown of Homescapes by Design for this blog The Importance of Lighting and Putting Your Listings in the Best Light!

Don’t forget lighting updates when planning to sell. From front door lighting to bathroom fixtures and everything in between, updating lighting is an important item on a home owner’s checklist when planning to sell a home. Read more......

It Takes a Team

2011-12-19T08:34:00.000-08:00

I'm a huge football fan. I love college ball, but I follow pro more closely. I love the Denver Broncos, who have definitely been playing (and yesterday, losing) as a team, despite all the Tebowmania. And as I watched yesterday, I realized teamwork is important not only when you're playing football, but also when you're selling your home. With the right team in place, the entire sales process goes so much more smoothly. But who are all these members of your team?

The team starts with you. You are the one who is selling your house, so there is no team without you. Your responsibility as a team member is to first choose the other members of your team wisely. And when you have them in place, listen to and follow their advice. If they are truly working with your best interests in mind (important for all of your team members), then they know what they are talking about.

Of course your Realtor is an important team member. He or she knows the market and can help you price your home wisely. He or she will also market your home appropriately, using technology as well as good old-fashioned marketing techniques to put your home in front of the potential buyers. The person you select will also help you through the entire process with suggestions, feedback, and prompt responses to any and all of your questions. And finally, you will get the help you need when you receive an offer, to make certain you get the best deal possible.

The attorney is another team member. This is the person who will help you maneuver through the legalese of the documents, including the contract and any clauses and contingencies that are important to you. He or she will make sure all of the "i's" are dotted and the "t's" are crossed so you and your interests are protected.

The home inspector plays an important role in the process, working with you and the Realtor to make sure your home is in good repair. The inspector will share with you any serious issues your home may have so you can get them resolved prior to putting the home on the market. Working with the Realtor, the inspector helps you understand those issues that may be deal breakers from the lender's perspective, as well as those things that should be done to help your home compare favorably in the marketplace.

The staging professional rounds out the team. This is the person who will help you present your home in the best possible light, working with you so the potential buyers focus on the house rather than on the things in the house. The stager will help you select paint colors, arrange furnishings and accessories, and provide advice on what needs to stay and what should go in the sales preparation process. Working with the Realtor, the stager will help you spend your dollars wisely, so you get the biggest return on your investment.

Knowing you have so many people on your team who are looking out for your interests should help make the entire sales process much easier......and help you rest easily knowing everyone has your best interests in mind.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make - #3

2011-12-15T20:40:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them

It's not uncommon for sellers to get in the way of their own success when selling a home. Learn from the mistakes others have made and avoid these common traps…

MISTAKE #3: De-Cluttering Too Much

Avoid the temptation to get carried away when de-cluttering your home. You don’t want to make your house feel too sparse or cold.

And remember, while it’s very important to “neutralize” your home, it doesn’t mean every wall needs to be painted white or "builder's beige"! Strive for the “hotel room effect” – that neutral understated spacious and inviting feeling that’s not too personal.

Wondering how much is too much and which colors are best? Contact your friendly neighborhood home stager for advice on getting your home to look it's best. I'd be happy to help you find one in your area.

MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house before preparing it for market

MISTAKE #9: Selling “AS IS”

MISTAKE #8: Over-Improving

MISTAKE #7: Covering up Known Defects

MISTAKE #6: Not Containing or Relocating Pets

MISTAKE #5: Selling Before You’re Emotionally Ready

MISTAKE #4: Failing to De-Clutter

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions where she specializes in assisting seniors with their downsize moves. She is author, speaker and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30days system. Call 860.302.0333 to learn more.

Emotional Separation

2011-12-12T10:24:00.000-08:00

Often one of the most difficult challenges facing sellers is how to separate emotionally from the house. And it's the first thing sellers must do - and a big part of week one in the Ready2Sellin30Days system. But that's not always easy, regardless of the reason for the sale. Sometimes reasons for a sale are unhappy, such as a death, divorce, or financial problems. Even a job transfer can be difficult for a family who is happy with their current home, town, schools, and friends. And sometimes even the 'good' reasons for a sale (such as moving to a larger home or a better neighborhood) aren't enough to release some of the emotional issues surrounding the sale. So what are some of the signs sellers should be aware of that may indicate they are having trouble dealing with the sale on an emotional level? And what can they do about it?

First, if sellers aren't willing to do the things necessary to prepare their houses for sale they may be facing emotions around the sale. While many of us are happy with the way we live in our homes, we understand not everyone lives the same way we do - or likes the same things we do. So when it's time to prepare it for market, being prepared emotionally means being willing to change how we live in the house to make it appeal to a wider audience.

Part of preparing for sale is also pricing the house correctly. Sellers who aren't willing to listen to the Realtor and who don't pay close attention to the comps may be having trouble with emotional separation. And once the house is on the market, sellers who make the house difficult to show by never having a convenient time for showings, who refuse to leave the house when it's being shown, or who make the house less than appealing during the showings may be having trouble with emotional separation.

If you see these signs in yourself or in sellers you are working with, understand there are things that can be done to help. First, if a family is involved, suggest a family meeting to discuss the move. During this meeting talk about the upcoming move - as well as the new location. If the seller is single, a trusted friend can be used as a sounding board. Share the issues and concerns about the move, as well as what may be positive about the change. Despite the reasons for the move, there will be things to look forward to in the new situation. Now is the time to focus on the positive side of the move, while acknowledging the difficulties that may be involved.

It is also helpful if the sellers begin thinking of their homes as houses. When the decision is made to sell, homes become commodities - something for sale. Rather than call it home, call it a house. And begin thinking of the ways to make this 'product' appeal to more buyers.

While selling a home can be difficult emotionally even under the best of circumstances, unless sellers are willing and able to reverse the selling decision, the only thing to do is sell. Be aware of when those negative emotions creep in, recognize them, then LET THEM GO. That is the only way to move forward, through the sale and into life beyond it.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Just What IS De-personalizing?

2011-12-05T11:07:00.000-08:00

If your house is on the market, you've probably heard you need to 'de-personalize'. Sometimes it's combined with 'de-clutter' as in 'you need to de-clutter and de-personalize'. And you know you need to get rid of some of the 'stuff' so potential buyers can actually see the house. And the house needs to feel open and spacious, and as if the potential buyers can move right in.

But what exactly do we mean about de-personalizing? Sure, the family photos need to come down so the potential buyer imagines their family living in the house, not your family. But it goes beyond that. What are those things that give the potential buyers too much information about you, your family and your lifestyle - things other than the photos?

First, do you have things around the house that tell buyers about your political beliefs? What about your religion? Your ethnicity? Many of us have certain beliefs about those we consider 'different' from us, even if we aren't always aware of those beliefs. And that may be true of your potential buyers. These beliefs can impact (even very subtly) how your potential buyers may feel about the
house. So it's better to remove anything that gives a hint about your personal beliefs.

What about awards and diplomas? Trophies? If these are displayed anywhere, take them down and pack them away. You don't want potential buyers comparing their education or awards with yours. Or deciding that because you're an attorney, you may be able to cover up issues with the house or problems with the sale.

Do you enjoy throwing cocktail parties? What if your potential buyers do not believe in using alcohol? To keep any concerns at a minimum, put the alcohol away while the house is on the market. The same is true of firearms. Even if you don't use them, remove them. Many people have very strong feelings about them.

To make certain you have completely de-personalized the house, here are a few places and things to check:

Bookshelves - check titles as well as accessories on display.
Artwork - make certain it isn't of a religious or ethnic origin and the subject matter might not be considered offensive.
Medicine cabinets - make sure no medications are in evidence.
Storage areas, including the basement, closets, and garage - do you have anything stored that might cause concern? And if you have labeled boxes make sure the labels don't give too much information.
Desks and work areas - remove any personal papers including bank statements, correspondence, and legal items. And keep your computer turned off!

And if you're still not sure just how much to remove, keep this in mind: If it isn't possible for it to belong to anyone else, remove it. While this might seem excessive, it ensures the attention of the potential buyers stays right where you want it - on the house.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of Ready2Sellin30Days System.

Top 10 Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them - #4

2011-12-01T19:30:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them

Don't stand in the way of your own home sale success. Learn from the mistakes of others and avoid these common traps…

MISTAKE #4: Failing to De-Clutter

Clutter Kills Equity! Buyers are willing to pay more for a larger home, doesn’t it make sense toremove the things in your home that make it feel smaller than it is?

Identify the best features of each room.
Make sure those features stand out and are not blocked by too much furniture or too many decorative accessories.
Get rid of the stuff you're storing in you're house that's no longer useful to you or that you no longer find beautiful.
Pack up the extra things you won't be using for the next few months. (You'll be moving soon anyway, so why wait?)
Minimize the contents of closets and cabinets to make them appear as spacious as possible.
Don't forget the garage is a selling feature - make sure it looks spacious too.

Remember you're showcasing the HOUSE not your stuff. I'm sure your artwork, collections, family photos, etc. are lovely, but they could be also be very distracting. Keep your buyers focused attention on what matters most - all the wonderful features of your home.

MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house before preparing it for market
MISTAKE #9: Selling “AS IS”
MISTAKE #8: Over-Improving
MISTAKE #7: Covering up Known Defects
MISTAKE #6: Not Containing or Relocating Pets
MISTAKE #5: Selling Before You’re Emotionally Ready

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions where she specializes in assisting seniors with their downsize moves. She is author, speaker and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30days system. Call 860.302.0333 to learn more.

Taking It Slowly.....

2011-11-28T09:49:00.000-08:00

Karen and I took the week off last week, which felt so good! And when you're preparing your house for sale, that may be something you need to consider - or at least try taking it a little more slowly during this time of year. That doesn't mean you stop preparing, especially if you want to hit the 'spring' market (which begins shortly after the first of the year). But when there's so much going on with the holidays, relaxing just a little may be a good idea.

Just don't stop! There are still many things you can do as you also prepare for and enjoy the holidays. Here are a few things to do that can go a long way towards your preparations, while not making you crazy at this time of year.

As you prepare holiday meals and goodies, don't put back the items you use only at this time of year when you are done with them. Instead, pack them for the move. Not only will that free space in your cabinets, it will also make it that much easier to pack when you do move.
Also take a look at all of the kitchen appliances you own. After preparing that holiday meal, can you do without the food processor? Or the blender? Perhaps one can be used in place of the other for a while. And what about the mixer? Once the cookies are prepared, can it be packed away? And don't forget about the turkey roaster! Chances are you won't need that for a year - when you're in your new home.
As you put up holiday decorations, consider those items you no longer display but may have held onto. Is it time for them to go to a new home? Or perhaps if you are using less this year because of the upcoming move, the things you aren't using can be packed for the move.
If you put some of your 'usual' things away to make room for holiday decorations, can you put them away until after the move? That will mean less clutter once the holiday decorations are gone - and less for you to pack when the time comes.
If you are having guests for the holidays, now may be the time to buy things like new towels. Let your guests use them during their visit, then keep them up (but unused) for the house showings. Just make sure they are in neutral colors that work in the bathroom (and not just for the holiday).
And finally, as you take down the decorations do a thorough house cleaning. You'll have less 'stuff' around, which will make it easy to reach those hard-to-clean areas.

You truly can make your holiday enjoyable and less stressful and still be preparing your house for sale!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make - #5

2011-11-17T20:04:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them.

MISTAKE #5: Selling Before You’re Emotionally Ready.

If you:

insist on over-pricing your house,
are unwilling to properly prepare it for market,
make it difficult to show and/or,
refuse to leave when it is being shown...

then you might not be emotionally ready to sell. Before you can prepare your house for sale, you must first prepareyourself! Give some thought as to why you are moving:

Are you excited about where you are going
Would you prefer to stay put?
What do you want?
What does your spouse/partner want?

Discuss with your spouse/partner and other family members what you each want for an end result. Be sure to work out any differences before going through with the sale.

Sellers who take the time they need to go through the process of preparing their home for sale experience the most success. And there are unexpected benefits to working with a stager who can help you become emotionally ready to list and sell. During the weeks (or sometimes months) it takes to get a home ready for market, sellers start removing the items that keep them emotionally connected to their home. They start packing and getting ready to move on to their next home. They start looking at their house differently - through the eyes of their potential buyers. The stress, the fear, the overwhelm they had about selling starts to evaporate because they feel supported through the process.

**************

Recognizing that hiring a stager is not a practical option for many home sellers, my partner Ann Anderson and I created the Ready2Sellin30Days system. It's designed to aleviate the stress and overwhelm associated with the entire home sale process. It's NOT your typical "staging" manual. It's a comprehensive do-it-yourself guide to properly preparing a home for sale - it covers overcoming emotional attachment to preparing for an open house to EVERYTHING in between. Check out http://www.ready2sellin30days.com/ to learn more!

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions where she specializes in assisting seniors with their downsize moves. She is author, speaker and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30days system. Call 860.302.0333 to learn more.

Staging Master Bedrooms

2011-11-14T08:25:00.000-08:00

We consider the master bedroom one of the most important rooms to stage. Of course, by the time the potential buyers get to the master bedroom, they've seen a lot of the house. But that doesn't mean this room isn't important or won't make a difference in the purchase decision. And the reason is simple.....we are all looking for a sanctuary. Sure, the comfort of the living/family room is important. You want your buyers to picture themselves spending quiet evenings at home with their families. Or entertaining during the holidays. But they also need quiet time and the space to enjoy a glass of wine at the end of a long day. Or to read while enjoying a cup of tea when there's a noisy football game on the family room television.

To stage the master bedroom effectively, think of a bed and breakfast. Remember how the bed looks when you first open the door? It's usually positioned opposite the door so it's the first thing you see. And it's dressed in beautiful linens that invite you to come in and rest a while. There's also a small sitting area - or at the very least a comfy chair. Just the place to enjoy the first cup of coffee in the morning, or that glass of wine in the evening.

That's the vision you want to create in the master bedroom of a house on the market. The bed and the bedding should be pretty but not overwhelming - just inviting. Find room for an upholstered chair, if possible. Place lamps on either side of the bed and turn them on. If there is a window, open the curtains to let in the light and the view (unless it's bad). If the floors aren't carpeted, add an area rug that's large enough to fit under the bed and extend on each side. (Smaller rugs will break up the space, making the room feel smaller than it is.)

A beautiful master bedroom will help buyers forget other possible concerns about the house. Make sure yours is a knock-out!

Ann Anderson is the owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System.

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make - #6

2011-11-11T02:56:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them

In hard enough to succeed in today's housing market - there's no need to make it any more difficult. Sometimes sellers can get in the way of their own home sale success. Why not learn from the mistakes of others and avoid these common traps…

MISTAKE #6: Not Containing or Relocating Pets

This is a very touchy subject with sellers, so PLEASE don't shoot the messenger......

I'm sure your pet is wonderful BUT there's a very good chance your pet might scare away your perfect buyer. It's possible that your prospects are allergic to, frightened of, or just won't like your pet. Why take any chances?

Please consider sending your pet someplace else to live while your house is on the market. At the very least, take it with you during all showings and open houses. And be sure to remove all evidence [food bowls, litter boxes, toys, etc.] that an animal lives in your home.

Think about how your pet might react to strangers entering your house. This could be very frightening and may cause your pet to behave in unexpected ways.

If you must leave your pet at home while it is being shown, make every effort to contain it. The real estate agents that are showing your home can’t possibly be expected to spend time trying to find your pet should it manage to escape.

Stay tuned.....next week I will bring you MISTAKE #5: Selling your house before your EMOTIONALLY ready.

And if you missed mistakes 10-7 click on the links below to find them....

MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house before preparing it for market
MISTAKE #9: Selling “AS IS”
MISTAKE #8: Over-Improving
MISTAKE #7: Covering up Known Defects
MISTAKE #6: Not Containing Pets

If you like these tips, then you'll love this handy do-it-yourself guide. It reveals 101 of my favorite, most practical, no-cost and low-cost strategies for getting a house ready to sell for top dollar for only $9.95

Preparing Your House for Sale In Tough Economic Times 101 Insider Tips

Go Here to Learn more!

Feng Shui Staging Tips

2011-11-07T09:12:00.000-08:00

Our friend, contributor to our Ready2Sellin30Days workbook, and Certified Feng Shui Staging Professional Christine Conway has some great tips to share to make the sales process much easier. Here are a few......

First, the front entrance is the most important thing to prepare when putting your house on the market. And regardless of whether you use it or not, your potential buyers should be directed to enter your house through it. That means it needs to be in perfect working condition as well as attractive so the potential buyers feel invited into the space. And the door isn't the only thing! The walkway to the door is critical so the energy has a route to follow to enter the home.

Christine also suggests a thorough cleaning of the house to remove any stagnant energy. After this cleaning, Christine suggests a space clearing to remove all the energy in the house that is from the current occupants, allowing anyone who enters to get a feeling of calm. While this is best if done by a Feng Shui Stager, it's not a difficult process - and the results are well worth it!

Christine also recommends lifting the energy in the Wealth area of your house. Because this is probably the largest financial transaction you will make in your lifetime, you want all of the interactions to go smoothly, including with the movers, the Realtor, the bank, and of course the buyers. To determine the Wealth area, stand at the front door looking inward. The area to the left that is furthest from the door (and probably in another room entirely) is what you are looking for. Add a small amount of purple (the color of wealth) to the area, or perhaps a Feng Shui crystal or some live bamboo.

The Helpful People area is also important to make sure you have them involved in the transaction. To activate energy in this area (which is the front right area of the house when you are facing inward), clear any clutter and personal items then add something metal. This area of your yard is also where you want to place the For Sale sign.

And of course Christine says that setting the price appropriately is key to selling your home. You can use Feng Shui to prepare for the sale, but if the house isn't priced appropriately, it won't help. Feng Shui make the house look and feel better, but it isn't magic!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System.

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make - #7

2011-11-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them #7 Covering Up Known Defects

Avoid a potential lawsuit - disclose your home’s known defects. Failing to do so could end in disaster.

Many states have mandatory disclosure laws - it would be a very good idea to know if your state is one of them. To find out, simply contact a reputable Realtor in your area.

If you know your roof leaks or that your basement is prone to flooding, it’s best to correct these problems before selling. If that’s not possible then be sure you’re honest about them and then price your house accordingly.

It's tragic when a transaction falls apart because of a home inspection. This is why I think a pre-sale home inspection is a great idea for any seller who wants to avoid surprises later on. Sure you might be nervous about what you might find out - but it will all come out eventually. And sooner is better than later.

Let me know if you need help finding a reputable Realtor or a home inspector that offers pre-sale home inspections. I'll be happy to help you locate one in your area.

Other posts that may be of interest.....
MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house before preparing it for market
MISTAKE #9: Selling “AS IS”
MISTAKE #8: Over-Improving

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions where she specializes in assisting seniors with their downsize moves. She is author, speaker and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30days system. Call 860.302.0333 to learn more.

Clearing Out Closets

2011-10-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

Clearing out closets conjures up lots of unhappy feelings for many of us. But it's something we have to tackle at some time or another - even if we wait until it's time to move! But switching between summer and winter clothes may also be a good time to declutter, even if a move is nowhere in sight. And it doesn't have to be difficult if you follow these simple steps.

First, purchase a nice set of hangers - enough for all of the clothes. They don't have to be expensive, but make sure they have padding so the clothes will hang better. If you have shoes on the floor, purchase an inexpensive shoe rack or shelf.

Next, get 2 or 3 large boxes (size will depend on the amount of things in your closet). Label one trash, one donate, and one sell (if you plan on having a tag sale). If you are moving, you want to get a 4th box you can use to pack away those items you won't need while the house is on the market. Now take everything out of the closet. I know, I know - I said this would be easy. But this step is very important and will make the entire process easier. Believe me, you'll be glad you did.

Once the clothes are out of the closet, take one piece at a time and place it in the appropriate box. If you're packing for a move, make certain you fold everything neatly and pack the box loosely so everything will be in good shape when you unpack. If the piece goes back in the closet, place it on one of your new hangers and hang it back in the closet. (An extra step is to keep the hangers all facing the same way, which is particularly nice if you are putting your house on the market.) If it's a pair of shoes that you are placing back in the closet, place them on the rack. This will make it easier to clean your closet floor. And if your home is going on the market, having a clean closet floor makes the closet seem more spacious.

Don't dawdle or second-guess yourself. If you haven't worn something during the appropriate season duing the past year, chances are you won't wear it again. If that's the case, place it in the appropriate box so it will find a good home elsewhere.

Once you've gone through each piece, you're done! And a clean spacious closet - for yourself or for your potential buyers - is your reward!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System.

Keys to Staging a Vacation Rental Home Successfully

2011-10-27T10:25:00.000-07:00

We talk all the time about staging primary residences for sale, but there's another staging market we can easily forget - vacation rentals. Just like homes on the market, vacation rentals must be made attractive for potential renters. There are many similarities between the two, but also a few differences. Read on for more from Ezine Articles expert Heather Bayer.

Vacation rental marketing is becoming increasingly competitive with hundreds of new rental listings being posted each day. The number of rental homes available worldwide is staggering and the choice for vacationers is growing at an ever increasing rate, so it has become even more important to create a listing or web site that will capture interest and attention from potential guests. Staging plays a primary role in attracting people to look further at a listing and there are some key activities owners can do to make their property more appealing.

Real estate vs vacation rental staging
There is a key difference between staging that realtors do to sell a property and the preparation rental property owners can do for photographs to show on their listings. The 'props' used in a for-sale property will be removed before closing but any items used in staging a rental home must be left in place as guests will want to see the place looking exactly as the images portrayed on the web site. For example, if luxury bedding is used, guests will expect to see the same or very similar quality when they arrive.

Staging the interior
All rooms should be staged to demonstrate consistency in style and décor. At the minimum, remove all clutter, family photographs and items that may have personal connections but add little to the overall look. Grandma's old throw on the couch; the dog bowl in the corner of the kitchen and the array of magnets on the fridge are just a few of the items that should be removed in the staging process. Make a candid assessment of each room and list the things you need to do to improve the look and ambience. Ring the changes by replacing artwork, floor rugs, soft furnishings or lighting; add some houseplants or repaint a wall or two.

Staging the exterior
An attractively presented exterior can make the difference between a web site visitor moving onto the next property or sticking around to explore a listing further. A patio table laid up for an al fresco meal with a bottle of wine in an ice bucket and a fresh looking bowl of salad makes a much more appealing image than a bare table with a closed umbrella over it, yet the latter is an image that many listings show. Use flower tubs and baskets, close-up photos of a brightly painted door or colourful window boxes, and create the type of photographs that would appeal to the demographic you are targeting.

Using staging consultants
If you are not confident of your expertise in styling and staging the property inexpensively yet, effectively, consider hiring a professional. Staging experts work predominantly with for-sale properties so make sure you let them know it is a vacation rental, and any materials used must stay at the property. The money spent on a professional consultancy could not only bring more rentals, but allow you to raise your rates as well, so it could be well worth the cost.

Professional photography
As with staging, it could be well worth your while in engaging a local professional photographer to do the pictures for you, and once again the expense can be recouped quickly in increased interest and subsequent reservations. Before agreeing a contract ensure you will own the images and are able to use them in a variety of media.

Take a look through some listings and see if you can identify those that have staged the properties well and have probably used professionals to help them achieve a successful outcome. They usually stand out above all the competition.

Heather Bayer is founder of Renting For Profit - a membership and resource site for vacation rental owners. She is also the author of Renting Your Recreational Property for Profit, and has owned and rented eight of her own properties in the past 20 years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6650034

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make - #8

2011-10-24T19:38:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them

It's hard enough to turn a profit in today's housing market - there's no need to make it any more difficult. Sometimes sellers can get in the way of their own home sale success. Why not learn from the mistakes of others and avoid these common traps…

MISTAKE #8: Over-Improving. Buyers might not appreciate your expensive upgrades as much as you do. Be very careful when choosing which improvements to make to your home before you sell .... it’s not always possible to recoup every dollar you spend.

Things like extravagant gourmet kitchens and slate roof shingles are very nice, but buyers may not be willing to pay more for your house because of them.

Give careful consideration to the other homes in your neighborhood and the kinds of amenities that they offer.

When preparing your house for sale, stick with the inexpensive repairs and updates. Save the major renovations for your buyer and price your house accordingly, based on the advice of a reputable Realtor.

Next week I will reveal Mistake #7: Covering up Known Defects. If you missed Mistakes #10 and #9 just follow the links below.....

MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house, before preparing it for market.

MISTAKE #9: Selling “AS IS”

Preparing Your House for Sale In Tough Economic Times 101 Insider Tips

This handy do-it-yourself guide reveals 101 of my favorite, most practical, no-cost and low-cost strategies for getting a house ready to sell for top dollar for only $9.95

Go Here to Learn more!

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Should You Decorate for the Holidays?

2011-10-17T06:53:00.000-07:00

We're coming to a very busy time of year holiday-wise. And if you usually decorate for the holidays, you may want to continue the tradition even if your home is on the market. And that's really okay, as long as you keep some guidelines in mind.

First, Halloween can be very tricky. No, it's not really a 'holiday', but many people go all-out in decorating their homes. That may be a little off-putting to some people, so we suggest avoiding the Halloween decorations and focus instead on fall decorations. There are lots of wonderful ways you can bring color, life, and the season into your home. Mums are always an excellent idea because they bring color to the yard at a time when color is fading. A pretty pot or two by the front door is always a nice addition as well.

Pumpkins are another great fall decoration, even without being carved. Use them in an outdoor arrangement with the mums, or bring them inside to decorate the mantel. Add a pretty fall picture and some bittersweet and you have a design that will take you through Thanksgiving. It will add the colors of the season to your mantel, drawing your potentail buyers' eyes to your fireplace, a great selling feature of the house.

Colorful gourds are another way to bring some fall color inside. Place a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes in a basket or bowl, add some candles, and you have an interesting centerpiece. What could be simpler? And then for Thanksgiving, all you have to do is add colorful place mats and napkins. Although you may be tempted to leave these out all the time, be careful about doing that. You don't want your potential buyers to be distracted by your table and not see the beauty of the house!

If you celebrate Christmas, you may need to down-size your decorations if your home is on the market. Keep it very simple, and limit the amount of time the house is decorated. White lights are best, with a simple wreath on the door or above the mantel. Using herbs for the wreath is a nice touch since the smells will welcome people into the house. If you do have a Christmas tree, keep it up for a shorter period of time - no more than 2 weeks.

Just because your house is on the market doesn't mean holiday decorating is a no-no. Just keep it simple, tasteful, and appropriate for the season and you will be fine.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Costly Mistakes Sellers Make - #9

2011-10-14T11:44:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Costly Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them

In today's tough housing market it's not uncommon for sellers to get in the way of their own home sale success. Why not learn from the mistakes of others and avoid these common traps.

Last week I shared MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house, before preparing it for market.

This week I bring you common MISTAKE #9: Selling “AS IS”

Now it's okay to sell “as is” ONLY if you’re not concerned about getting the BEST price possible for your home. Houses described as “handyman specials” might frighten away the average home buyer. On the other hand, bargain-hunting investors eagerly search out homes like these. They jump at the chance to buy an undervalued house and then fix it up and sell it for a profit.

Why not make the repairs (if your budget allows) and keep those profits for yourself? The trick is knowing which improvements will bring you the greatest return on your investment - because not every dollar you spend will be returned.

There are many real estate professional who would be more than happy to assist you in making these decisions - starting with an experienced Realtor who knows your neighborhood well. Depending on your situation, he or she might recommend a pre-sale home inspecition as well as reputable contractors who can help you make those cost-effective improvements. An experienced real estate stager can also guide you when it comes time to decide which improvements will offer the greatest return when preparing your home for sale.

Every year HomeGain surveys real estate agents from all around the country to determine the top relatively low cost, do-it-yourself home improvements for homeowners getting their house ready to sell. Here are the results of their most recent survey....

According to Louis Cammarosano, General Manager at HomeGain, “Sellers need to prepare their homes for sale before putting them on the market. Homes that have initial appeal have a better shot at selling faster and closer to the asking price than homes rushed to the market with no improvements.”

Learn more about the 2011 HomeGain Survey by visiting the HomeGain website. For more information on how to prepare a home for sale visit http://www.ready2sellin30days.com/. While you're there be sure to sign up for the Homesale Success with Karen & Ann Newsletter.

Stay tuned. Next week I will reveal Mistake #8 Over-improving your home.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Staying or Going - Some Advice Stays the Same!

2011-10-10T14:14:00.000-07:00

If you've read our blog much at all, you know we sometimes give advice that works whether you are moving or not. Most of the time this advice relates to decorating tips - and this time is no exception!
As I was looking at photographs I took of a house I recently staged, I noticed some of the things I had done that were appropriate for selling - or living. So I decided to share them with you.

For starters, an area rug is a wonderful addition to a room, even if the flooring is beautiful. It doesn't have to be large - just large enough to ground the main seating area (which usually means the sofa and loveseat or sofa and chair). It adds softness and warmth, even if it's a natural fiber like a sisal (as you see in the photograph). Just make certain the rug is large enough to come to the edge of the furniture. It's not even necessary it go under the furniture as long as it connects the main seating area.

A pop of color is a great way to move the eye around a room. The furniture in this room is very neutral, so the pop of orange really stands out. But it also keeps the eye moving from the flowers to the artwork to the pillows to the bookshelves (which have an orange sculpture not visible in the photo). Even the lampshade has a hint of orange. Even if your furnishings have more color, that pop of color (the 10% of the 60-30-10 color rule) is important.

Lamps are important, even if a room gets lots of natural light (as this one does). They add a warmth (there's that word again) to a room and can also work much as the color does by drawing your eye around the room. And if you're selling, it's important to have plenty of light so the potential buyers can see the rooms. Overhead light tends to be jarring and can show way too many flaws, so lamps are a better alternative.

Paring down belongings helps a room feel spacious. And that includes bookshelves. If you're living in the house, fewer items on the bookshelves makes those items stand out more, enabling you and your family to enjoy them more. And if you're selling, the potential buyers are able to see the bookshelves, which are a selling feature. (Just make sure if you're selling that the items on the shelf aren't of a personal nature.)

And finally, a green plant is a nice addition to almost any room. If you don't have a green thumb, there are beautiful faux silk plants available at very reasonable prices. Just keep them dusted, then enjoy that organic element they bring to a room.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Top 10 List of Costly Mistakes Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

2011-10-07T10:39:00.000-07:00

Sure the market is tough, but it's not uncommon for sellers to get in the way of their own home sale success. Why not learn from the mistakes of others and avoid these common traps…

MISTAKE #10: Waiting until after you’ve tried - and failed - to sell your house, before preparing it for market.

Timing is everything. The best time to prepare your house for sale is BEFORE it is listed. Sellers will often wait until after their house sits on the market for months before realizing they need to do a few things to improve its appearance. This is a big mistake!

Don’t waste valuable time. Your house will get the most attention during its first few days and weeks on the market so make sure it’s ready.
A house that sits unsold for too long becomes “shopworn” and often causes buyers to wonder what’s wrong with it. A long time spent on the market usually means a much lower sale price.

Stay tuned next week for Mistake #9!

If you liked this tip you'll love this handy do-it-yourself guide reveals 101 of my favorite, most practical, no-cost and low-cost strategies for getting a house ready to sell for top dollar for only $9.95

Preparing Your House for Sale In Tough Economic Times 101 Insider Tips

Go Here to Learn more!

For Your Inspiration:

"Other people and things can stop you temporarily. You're the only one who can do it permanently." ~Zig Ziglar

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Staging Vacant Homes with Less

2011-10-03T06:17:00.000-07:00

Last week I shared the importance of staging vacant homes by furnishing at least some of the rooms. And while I believe that is the better way to go, sometimes that may be too expensive an option. If the house is in excellent shape or in a lower price range, staging vignettes may be an acceptable alternative.

If this is the method you choose, remember you are selling the house, so focus on those areas that will be most important to potential buyers. That means places like the fireplace, the kitchen, the entry, that master bathroom, and perhaps a few others. You want to add softness, warmth, and the suggestion of a lifestyle just as you do with rooms of furniture. But you want to do it with less. Let's take each area and consider ways to do that.

The entry is very important because it sets the tone for the rest of the house. Make the outside entry inviting by using plants in pots. Even in winter evergreens by the side of the door are a nice touch. Upon entering, have a large rug on the floor - something that adds color and interest. If possible, have a table and a lamp as well. You can always use a simple pressboard table covered with a pretty cloth (nothing distracting). These things will add softness and make the space feel welcoming.

Then focus on the fireplace. Add a piece of artwork and perhaps an accessory or two. If you don't have artwork, try creating an inviting vignette that adds softness and interest. Remember, your goal is to draw the potential buyers' eyes to the fireplace, then to help them visualize cozy winter evenings with their family.

Kitchens are very important to buyers, but can feel so cold when there is nothing in them except the appliances and empty counter tops. To add interest and warmth, add a few accessories to the counter tops. A bowl of fruit is always a nice touch as is a plant or flower arrangement. And perhaps a towel by the side of the sink or a container of utensils by the stove would work as well.

Built-in bookshelves are also something that can be enhanced by the addition of a few props. Perhaps a few books and an accessory or two will draw the eye to this selling feature and keep it from looking too stark. Notice in the photo at left that not only are the countertops warmed by the fruit and the plant, the bookshelves in the family room are also more interesting with the addition of a few colorful accessories.

And finally, the master bedroom and bath. It may not be necessary to do anything to the bedroom, but if there is a view, the addition of a comfy chair with a throw and a lamp may help the potential buyers visualize not just a bedroom, but a cozy retreat.

It doesn't have to be difficult or expensive to make an empty house feel warm and inviting - while still focusing on those features that will help to sell it. Use your creativity to capture the buyers' imaginations!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Advice About Making a Downsize Move from Someone Who Has Been There and Done It Twice - Part III

2011-09-30T08:21:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Jan, a very lovely lady who experienced 2 downsize moves - I wanted to all learn about her experience. I thought her insights would be helpful for me as a professional who specializes in helping seniors prepare their homes for sale. She also has some great advice to share for seniors who are considering making that life-altering move.

My friend Pam Hartz Miller of Hartz & Homes and Home to Home Transitions introduced me to Jan. Eleven years ago Pam assisted Jan and her friend Edie with their downsize move from their home of 35 years to an apartment at Heritage Commons a retiment comunity in Middletown, Connecticut. Edie passed away recently prompting Jan to make yet another downsize move into a smaller apartment at Heritage Village. Of course she called on Pam to help. I asked Jan a series of questions about her experience with both of her moves:

Q: What kinds of questions do you ask when researching a facility?

A: It’s important ask about the amenities offered at different places. They are NOT all the same. If you like to cook, ask if the apartments come with kitchens. Are meals provided, if so how many and at what cost? Get all the details. A facility that provided transportation was very important to me. I was surprised to learn how each place charged for this service. Ask about the kinds of activities are offered both onsite and off. Make sure you can find something you enjoy. Heritage Commons allows us to have one pet so if you have a pet be sure to ask if they are allowed.

Q: What advice would you give to family, friends and to professionals like Pam and myself who want to assist someone like you with making a downsize move?

A: The most important thing is to realize that this is an extremely emotionally taxing time. My family was wonderful - they were very helpful to me during both of my moves. But sometimes family members think they know you better than they really do. They might feel comfortable making decisions for you that you don’t like. Awkward situations arise that need to be dealt with – often when lots of other people are around – and it’s not easy to do. I was very fortunate to have friends coming out of the woodwork to help me. I sometimes had 4-6 people helping me all at the same. Of course everyone had the best of intentions, but it got pretty chaotic!

My advice would be to arrange a schedule so that you don’t have too many people around you all at once. The ability to communicate effectively is the key. Many people making a move like this are also dealing with the loss of a loved one, or a health crisis, or both. They’re overwhelmed. The family members who are coming to help out are also mourning a loss, so it’s an emotional time all the way around.

That’s why I really appreciated the help Pam gave me. I would strongly recommend getting the OBJECTIVE help from someone outside the family to help. Without that emotional connection the process goes so much more smoothly. I say, listen to the professionals who specialize in this sort of service. Managing all of the people who may want to help you requires executive level organizational skills.

Never lose sight of the fact that this is an extremely emotional time that requires patience, time, organization, and tact.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Staging Vacant Homes

2011-09-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

I have had sellers ask me about furnishing vacant homes - is it really important? And the answer in most cases is YES! But that doesn't mean you have to furnish every room. And sometimes it's okay not to use furniture, but simple vignettes. More on that next week, but here are things you need to consider when the house you are selling is vacant.

Although it may be hard to believe, empty houses feel smaller than they are. So if size is an issue, furnishing it can show the potential buyers that they will have plenty of room.
Some rooms may be confusing. Just what is that small room off the entry? It has a closet, but that's a strange place for a bedroom. Help the buyers out by furnishing the room so it's function is clear.
Bare rooms are very cold and uninviting.
Furniture can help draw attention away from less desirable features of the house and towards those that will help sell it.

The tile floor in this room is very cold and hard. Although the view outside is beautiful, there is no warmth in the house.

Adding furniture distracts from the floor, bringing a warmth to the house. And the rug grounds the sitting area, while minimizing the impact of the flooring.

Furnishing an empty house isn't inexpensive. But if it's going to sell the house - especially in a shorter period of time and at a better price - isn't it worth it? Compare that 'price' to the cost of the first price drop!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of Association of Design Education, co-creator of Ready2Sellin30Days.

Advice About Making a Downsize Move from Someone Who Has Been There and Done It Twice - Part II

2011-09-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

My friend Pam Hartz Miller of Hartz & Homes and Home to Home Transitions introduced me to Jan - a very lovely lady who has experienced 2 downsize moves in the last 11 years.

In yesterday's post, Jan explained exactly how Pam had helped her make that first move. As a professional who specializes in helping seniors prepare their homes for sale I wanted to learn more about her experience - so I asked a lot of questions. Her insights were so valuable to me, I just had to share them. If you or someone you know is considering making the move to assisted living, Jan offers some wonderful advice....

Q: What made you decide it was time to make the move to an assisted living facility like HeritageCommons?

A: My health was starting to deteriorate. I had difficulty doing basic things of take care of myself. I needed more help with just about everything. We had intended to go about it slowly. We very casually started researching different places. When we visited friends we picked up literature about different facilities. One day we visited Heritage Village in Middletown Connecticut. A friend had invited us to join her for lunch on the patio. We fell in love with the country atmosphere. I found the grounds with the river in back very inviting. We came back to take an official tour and we were hooked. We decided to act fast – we wanted to get into this place right away.

Q: What kind of advice would you offer to others who are considering a move to assisted living?

A: Make the move BEFORE you have to - while you’re still healthy! When you’re still feeling good, but just starting to get slower at things is the perfect time to start thinking about making a move. Sit down and talk with your spouse or significant other. If you don’t make the decision now, there’s a very good chance someone will be making it for you later on. It was very important for us to have a say in where we ended up. Do you really want to live with the choice others have made for you? Do it early. Think about it when you’re still feeling well.

And think of it as going on a vacation - a BIG, long, well-deserved vacation where you don’t have to cook anymore (if you don’t want to). A nice long vacation, where you can make new friends and enjoy lots of different activities. I enjoy painting classes and playing cribbage and bridge. We take trips to museums, restaurants, state parks and to the Bushnell for shows. All the arrangements are made for us – it’s wonderful!

Next week Jan will share questions you should ask when trying to find a facility that's right for you. She'll also discuss the best way that family, friends ande professionals can help seniors make that life-altering move.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Selling 'As Is'

2011-09-19T15:08:00.000-07:00

It's really tempting - particularly in this economic climate - to want to sell 'as is'. But before you make that decision, here are a few things to consider.

First, sellers will still offer you less money. Even if you priced your house with all of the updates and/or repairs in mind, sellers don't want to do the work themselves, but prefer the house be in move-in condition. Because yours isn't, they will discount the price even further. This is true regardless of the amount you discounted your price already. Even if you have estimates for the work, sellers will assume it's going to cost more - so their offering price goes down.

There is lots and lots of competition out there. And with a lot of competition there will always be houses that are in better condition than yours, which may very well be something buyers will be willing to pay a bit more for, especially if it means they can move in without doing anything. Although buyers are looking for a bargain, that doesn't necessarily mean the lowest priced house, but the best deal for the money. And they may consider a house in great condition with updates and repairs already done the best deal.

With all of this competition, buyers are looking at a lot of houses. And the houses that really stand out are those that show the best. A house in 'as is' condition doesn't usually show very well. You don't want your potential buyers to remember your house as 'the one with the hanging gutters and mildew'.

And finally, as a Realtor said when discussing repairs and updates, in this climate it's done when you sell your house, it's if you sell your house. So if what you really want to do is sell your house, make those needed updates and repairs. A faster selling time (or selling at all) will make the money you spend well worth it!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Making a Downsize Move - Advice from Someone Who Has Done It Twice (Part 1)

2011-09-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Jan, a lovely lady, Jan who has experienced 2 downsize moves. I wanted to all learn about her experience because I thought her insights would be helpful for me as a professional who specializes in helping seniors prepare their homes for sale.

My friend Pam Hartz Miller of Hartz & Homes and Home to Home Transitions introduced me to Jan. Eleven years ago Pam assisted Jan and her friend Edie with their downsize move from their home of 35 years to an apartment at Heritage Commons, a retirement community in Middletown, Connecticut. Edie passed away recently prompting Jan to make yet another downsize move into a smaller apartment at Heritage Commons. Of course she called on Pam to help. I asked Jan a series of questions about her experience:

Q: How exactly did Pam help you manage your first downsize move?

A: First, Pam came over to our house and looked at everything we had. Then she went to the Heritage Commons apartment to take measurements and evaluate the space. She asked which of our furnishings we wanted to take. Then she told us what we would have room for, keeping in mind my wheelchair had to be maneuvered through all these rooms.

She came up with 2 plans for the living room and 2 plans for each of the bedrooms for us to choose. She made suggestions about what we could and couldn't fit in the new sapce. We then called our families to let them know we needed help cleaning out the attic and tool shed. We gave away the items we couldn’t take with us and what our family didn’t want was donated to charity or thrown away.

In one weekend we managed to clean out the entire attic which contained 35 years of accumulated stuff (most of it hadn’t been touched since the day we put it up there). We had piles all over the yard - stuff family members wanted, items to be donated to charity and things we could take with us. The rest went in the dumpster which came in very handy as we ended throwing away a lot.

Edie and I started bringing the smaller things that we could manage to our new apartment - a little bit at a time. Pam helped us put everything put away and she helped us organize the closets and cabinets. She made floor plans that were hung non the dooor of every room that told the movers exactly where to put everything. This made the move go very smoothly. Movers had everything done in only 2 hours all thanks to efficient planning.

Next week I will be sharing more of Jan's insights. Find out what made her decide it was time to make the move to a retirment community and what advice she would give to someone considering making that life-altering move.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Determining Priorities

2011-09-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

I was recently contacted by a Realtor to do a staging consultation on a small colonial in a nearby town. The homeowner has lived in the house about 10 years and has made some improvements, but because of health issues she hasn't been able to do much in recent years. When I saw the house, I realized there were some concerns that might need to be addressed but that were beyond the scope of my consultation......things about the condition of the house that might cause problems with a sale. So to make certain we determined the correct priorities in making the staging decisions, I suggested we begin with a home inspection.

After the inspection we did indeed have a list of things that needed to be done - these on top of the things we needed to properly stage the house. My list included changing the kitchen cabinets and countertop, repairing a built-in cabinet in the dining room, a few pieces of furniture, changing a few light fixtures, among other things. The inspector's list included bringing the electrical outlets up to code, repairing the termite damage at the front entrance, installing a gutter to keep the roof from leaking, and adding insulation in the attic.

While these changes and updates may be a bit more than usual, they could still be done relatively inexpensively. But these aren't ordinary times. The value of the house had declined so that even without making any changes the seller was going to lose money. But some changes had to be made - how do you decide which ones?

First, you have to pay attention to the inspection. Banks are becoming more and more cautious when they make home mortgages, so any kind of concens about the condition of the house must be taken very seriously. That means the electrical repairs were a must. As was the termite damage (which included spraying for any active infestations). And while insulation didn't need to be added to the 'nice to have' level, it did need to be added where the ceiling of the first floor was clearly visible. And of course the gutter and leaking had to be repaired.

My list was pared down so the current furnishings are the ones we are going with, perhaps adding a slipcover or a new lamp for an instant update. Rather than refinishing the floors, they will be buffed. Rather than new kitchen cabinets, we'll repaint the old ones and add new hardware. Changing the light fixtures is easy since electrical work is already being done, so I found some inexpensive but still very attractive fixtures to use. And I must say, the house still looks great. Yes there was more money put into a non-appreciating asset - money that wouldn't give the seller a return on their investment. But it did mean the house would sell, which would probably not have been the case if the house had been sold 'as is'. And working with the inspector (as well as the Realtor, who understands the market) ensured the priorities we decided on were the correct ones.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

How to Promote Your Real Estate Business with Tips Booklets

2011-09-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

Attention Real Estate Professionals!

Did you know tips booklets are a great way to promote your business? Unlike brochures and business cards, booklets are typically saved for future reference and are less likely to be thrown away.

Not your typical “staging” tips, this 16 page booklet contains 101 practical NO-COST and LOW-COST strategies for preparing homes for sale during tough economic times. Specifically designed to make your job easier, every tip adds value and tells sellers exactly what they need to hear.

For Example:

Tip #6: Know the signs of “Seller Sabotage.” If you insist on overpricing your home, are unwilling to properly prepare it for market, make it difficult to show, or refuse to leave when it’s being shown … you might not be ready to sell.

Tip #51: Neutralize bold decorating statements. It’s highly unlikely that your buyers will appreciate your deep purple living room as much as you do.

Tip #73: Crate your pet if you can’t take it with your when your house is being shown. Agents don’t have time to try to locate your pet should it manage to escape.

Tip #91: Leave during all showings and open houses. It is very difficult for buyers to feel comfortable viewing a house when the homeowner is there.

Have your tips booklets personalized with your name and contact information on the cover then …

Give as a gift to listing clients
Send as a “Thank You” for a listing appointment
Use as a give-away at home shows
Deliver to prospects as a way of staying in touch

Give the gift of truly useful information to your sellers for only $9.95. Go here to purchase. Contact Karen at 860-302-0333 for special quanitity pricing!

Kitchens are THAT Important

2011-09-06T06:59:00.000-07:00

I’ve been working with a staging client who needs quite a few things done to her house before we put it on the market. Like so many of us, she’s delayed doing things over the years and now is making up for lost time. The house is charming but he needs a few important updates like white doors and trim, a little painting – and a new kitchen.

Deciding a new kitchen is necessary is a very big deal when putting a house on the market. Under normal circumstances I suggest looking at all of the alternatives before making such a large dollar commitment. But these aren’t ‘normal’ – or perhaps they are the new normal. As a Realtor remarked recently, it has become a matter of if you want to sell the house, not when. So the alternative I now suggest my clients to consider is making some significant changes, but of course going with lesser expensive alternatives rather than top of the line – unless that’s what the price point of the house calls for.

Fortunately, this kitchen is small, so we began with kitchens from a big box store. That’s a lower-cost alternative while still giving the house the update that it needs. But there are a couple of other lower-cost alternatives that may give us an even better deal. The first is to look at stock cabinets at this same store then work with my contractor to make them fit in the space. That lowers the cost even more and isn’t difficult to accomplish on a simple kitchen like the one in this house.

Another alternative is to check out a store that carries slightly used cabinets, or even new cabinets that for some reason didn’t work out. That might be someplace like ReStore, the Habitat for Humanity store where contractors often donate their materials. Some of these may be very good condition and may be resized to fit in the space at a lower cost and better quality than the big box store.

The final alternative is to check out kitchen stores to see if they have a section where they keep brand-new cabinets that were either never installed or that clients rejected for some reason. These are often sold at deeply discounted prices. And depending on the sizes, can also be made to fit the space.

Of course that still leaves the countertops where I stand by my previous advice. We won’t necessarily go with granite unless we can find something simple and at an excellent price. Otherwise we will look at alternatives such as laminates (which can be quite stunning) and solid surface countertops. In the case of this house, because the kitchen is small the countertops won’t be very expensive, so we’ll probably go the traditional route. But for the built-in hutch in the dining room that currently has a very old laminate top is bad condition, we’ll check out stone stores for excess pieces that can easily – and inexpensively – be made the fit. And with a small budget we’ll have a stunning kitchen – and a house that should sell even in this market.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Lots to Be Thankful For......

2011-09-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

Blizzards, Tornadoes, an EARTHQUAKE? ... oh my! What an interesting year it has been for us here in Connecticut. And now after Hurricane Irene, we're left wondering....what next!? While that might be a legitimate question to ponder, I'd rather not to go there.

I prefer to reflect a bit on what I've learned from this tumultuous year (and I'm not just talking about the weather). First of all, I've learned to be grateful - because, like my mother always said, no matter how bad we think we have it, things could always be worse.

I feel so very fortunate that my family, friends and neighbors have all managed to weather these storms with relatively little damamge. After all, a temporary power outage or a wet basement is nothing compared to the devestation suffered by the victims of the Tsunami in Japan just a few months ago. It's all about putting things in perspective. Irene didn't quite live up to the media's relentless hype (in my area at least) and I for one have chosen to not complain about that. I'm just thankful we were spared.

I'm also thankful for another valuable lesson ... always be prepared. Cautious optimisim is a good thing. Hope for the best but be prepared for the worst - are words to live by in business and in life. Life will always be throwing us curve balls and all we can do is be prepared and take every opportunity to learn and grow from those inevitable problems that come our way.

A big Thank You goes out to my friend Ann Anderson for inspiring this post!

For your inspiration...

"If you break your neck, if you have nothing to eat, if your house is on fire, then you got a problem. Everything else is inconvenience." ~Robert Fulghum

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

"If all our misfortunes were laid in one common heap, whence everyone must take an equal portion, most people would be content to take their own and depart." ~Socrates

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Homeownership Matters Bus Tour Stops in Plainville, Connecticut

2011-08-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

The National Association of Realtors® Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour next stop ....PLAINVILLE CONNECTICUT!

The Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour is scheduled to be stopping in Plainville CT August 27, 2011 from 4-7pm (weather permitting!) at Norton Park in Plainville, CT for a Homeownership Matters Event during the Plainville Balloon Festival

Stop by to celebrate homeownership, enjoy prizes, food, fun and share great information. Meet your leaders from the National Association of Realtors® and the Connecticut Association of Realtors® and The Midstate Board of Realtors® too.

These events provide the opportunity and resources to learn about how the proposed changes to public policy will affect homeownership. Come and discuss housing issues that matter most to you such as the need for:

affordable homeowner's insurance
continued access for affordable mortgage rates
disaster relif programs
protection of the mortgage interest deduction

plus a whole lot more!

The Homeownership Matters Bus Tour started in Chicago on March 5th, 2011 and plans to stop in 33 states before it ends in Anaheim, California in November 2011. After visiting Plainville, CT the next stops will be:

Providence Rhode Island on Aug. 27th

Springfield, Massachusetts on Aug. 30th

Columbus, Ohio on Sept. 12th

Visit the National Association of Realtors® Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour site to learn more.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Wallpaper Must Go!

2011-08-22T11:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true.......in most cases, wallpaper should be removed when placing your house on the market. As beautiful as it may be, as wonderful as it looks with your things, it makes a very personal statement. And those who have very different tastes and styles may not be able to see past your decorating statement.

It may be helpful to remember this is a house. It is no longer your home, but a commodity you are selling. So that means you need to remove your personal taste and touches.....including the wallpaper. But don't worry. It's really easier than you may think. Here are some tips to help you with the process:

Be prepared. Have 3" to 6" scrapers and a ladder or stepstool (depending on the height of the wallpaper.
Protect the flooring with plastic sheeting or drop cloths.
Remove everything from the walls including light switch covers.
Prepare the wallpaper removal solution, if you are using one. (Water often works just fine.)
Spray on a small area to make certain it's working. You can tell if it dissolves the adhesive backing. If it doesn't, you may need to add vinegar or fabric softener to the water.
Determine the grain. Can the paper be stripped up and down or from left to right.
If the wallpaper doesn't scrape off easily, you may need to let it soak for a few minutes, then try again.
As a last resort, use a scoring tool in a circular motion to cut tiny holes in the paper, then try soaking it again.
Scrape the walls gently so you don't gouge them!
Clean the walls with a damp sponge and allow to dry thoroughly before painting.

Sound like a lot of work? Believe me, it will be well worth it!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Do Your Surroundings Impact Your Life? Maybe More than You Know

2011-08-18T21:23:00.000-07:00

A big THANK YOU goes out to our friend Beth Frede from Newmarket New Hampshire for contributing this great article! Beth helps homeowners leave their room frustrations behind and enjoy their homes to the fullest through one-day room makeovers. She also helps home sellers get out of their old homes and into their next ones with less stress and greater success through Real Estate Staging. Beth does a great job explaining the many ways our environment affects our lives. Enjoy.....

I recently watched a video in STIR magazine (an online publication from Sherwin Williams) about "healing hues" used at Ahuja Medical Center in Ohio (see the video here, it's only a couple of minutes). Not only were particular colors used to create a calming affect, but a myriad of other design elements were chosen for their impact as well.

The medical center's design is based on growing research that shows a link between a patient's environment and their medical outcome. Simply put, when the environment at a health care facility is soothing, comfortable, and easy to get around in, patients heal faster, are less stressed, and require less medical care.

Hotel lobby? No.... It's Ahuja Medical Center

You've probably noticed this shift in thinking if you've visited a newly built or renovated health care facility in recent years. The newly designed spaces are not meant to trick patients into feeling like they're visiting a hotel instead of a hospital; these facilities are using "supportive design" because it results in patients needing fewer procedures, less medicine, shorter hospital stays, and fewer health care workers to care for them. Essentially, supportive design is used because it's good for the bottom line!

Here are some of the considerations that supportive design addresses:

Color- soothing colors replace the depressing, cold atmosphere of sterile, white, pre-2000 medical facilities, and help people to relax. Energizing colors are more uplifting in spaces used for rehabilitation or children's care.
Furniture arranged conversationally- makes it easier for people to talk comfortably; it's more reminiscent of someone's home or a gathering place; conversation is very humanizing and decreases stress (of both the patients and their visiting friends and family).
Portable furniture (as opposed to a row of attached, institutional-feeling seats, for example)- allows people to draw up a chair at their discretion; this gives patients a feeling of control (something we often lack when we're "The Patient").
Carpeted areas- are easier for seniors to walk on than shiny linoleum floors; this gives seniors a sense of independence and control.
A view of nature- gives patients a connection to the world outside of a hospital and again, is uplifting.

Nothing sterile about Berlin's Queen Elizabeth Children's Hospital

These are just a few of the many factors that go into "supportive design." And if doctors, staff, and patients know there's a difference between how we feel and react in cold, stark environments as opposed to a warm and comfortable ones, doesn't it make sense that our homes affect us this way too?

Probably far more than we realize.

This post brought to you by Beth Frede, owner and principal designer of Beth Frede Interiors, LLC. Find her online at www.bethfredeinteriors.com and sign up for her no-cost, in-depth report on the 7 big mistakes sellers make so you can avoid these pitfalls when selling your own home.

Home Staging and 'Downsize Design' Seminars for Seniors in Transition

2011-08-12T14:01:00.000-07:00

Home to Home Transitions: Home Staging and 'Downsize Design' Seminars for Seniors in Transition are coming SOON to Connecticut Senior Centers and Retirement Communities near you.

The Home to Home Transitions Seminars - providing help and hope to frustrated seniors who feel stuck in houses they think won’t sell because...MANY seniors would love to be enjoying the carefree lifestyle of a retirement community but the fear of a difficult housing market causes many to stay in homes that no longer serve them.

People who have lived in the same house for a number of years tend to accumulate many treasures. It’s not at all uncommon to be overwhelmed by it all especially when a downsize move is being considered. Not knowing where to begin causes many older homeowners to do nothing at all.

The Home to Home Transitions Seminars are designed to give senior home sellers the direction they need to make better quality of life decisions AND help alleviate the stress and overwhelm typically associated with a downsize move.

If you're interested in hosting a FREE Home to Home Transitions Seminar, here's all you need to do:

1.Call Karen at 860-302-0333 and choose a date from one of the many days and evenings we have available.

2.Pick a [Connecticut] location – we'll come to you.

3.Pick your topic(s) from the following menu.

4.Let us help you publicize your event.

Home to HomeTransitions Seminar Topics

Home Staging: Learn low-cost and no-cost stategies for preparing your home for profitable sale, accentuate your home’s best selling features and get the best price possible in a sluggish real estate market. Brought to you by Karen Bernetti, Stager, former Realtor, author, owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system. (30 minutes)

Downsize Design: Looking to move into a smaller and easier to maintain home? Are you wondering how your old furnishings will fit in your new space. How do you decorate your new space to make it feel like home? We have the answers. Brought to you by Pamela Hartz Miller Interior Redesigner and owner of Hartz and Homes Room Makeovers specializing in transforming spaces using existing furniture, artwork and accessories to create more functional, pleasing spaces. (30 minutes)

Home Staging & Downsize Design: Beginning with the end of mind, we’ll tackle the issues of preparing a home for sale AND teach you how to begin planning for your downsize move before you list your house for sale. Proper planning will ensure a much smoother transition. Presenters: Karen Bernetti, Pam Hartz Miller and/or Ann Anderson, depending on location. (60 minutes)

Other Related Topics
Packing and Moving Strategies: Learn how to develop a plan of action to make packing and moving less overwhelming and more organized. Brought to you by Kristin Mastromarino, Professional Organizer and owner of Livable Solutions. (20-30 minutes)

Insider Tips and Tricks for Decorating on a Budget. Brought to you by Jennifer Napolitano, "The DollarWise Decorator" and owner of JNDesigns. (20-30 minutes)

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Getting Rid of 'Stuff'

2011-08-08T12:06:00.000-07:00

I conducted a staging consultation this morning in a beautiful home here in Connecticut. It's updated - the kitchen is gorgeous. It oozes charm. It has an adorable cottage in the back that would be perfect for guests or as an office. But there is a problem - a very big problem. The house has 20 years worth of 'stuff'. And the seller must get rid of it not only to make the house pretty, but because she's down-sizing, which means all the 'stuff' has to go.

As the seller and I were having a wrap-up session, I took on the role of more of a counselor. And I realized the information we were discussing is very important to the staging process. Many of my clients have lived in their homes for a number of years and need help with more than updating the kitchen and arranging the furnishings appropriately. They are moving into smaller spaces and the uncluttering they must do can be overwhelming, particularly when it means going through things they've had for years. So what are some of the things they need to know to make these easier?

First, it's a good idea set a schedule. Determine how much time you have each day to work on the project. Then commit that time to doing the work. Treat it as a job. If you decide to spend 3 hours a day uncluttering, then do so. And set the exact time such as 10 am to 1 pm.

Not only do you need to set the time but you need to decide what you will be doing during this time. Be realistic. As an example, if you have an office that needs to be cleaned, estimate the amount of time it will take you to go through everything. Then schedule that on your calendar and stick to it. That will keep you from getting distracted (did I really pay that much for those shoes?) and on task. If you find you're ahead of schedule, great! Adjust your timing accordingly so you continue to be motivated.

Schedule a difficult task, then an easier task. This way you will continue to see progress. And as each task is completed - no matter how small - celebrate. That may mean a lemonade break or dinner with a friend (depending on the task). Just don't let it distract you from your purpose.

Realize there is help available. Often I encourage my clients to spend money to change the carpeting update a kitchen or bath. These are certainly important. But spending money on a storage facility and/or a dumpster may be just as important. My client today is an artist and has lots of canvases that are filling lots of storage spaces in the house. She also has lots and lots of books on art, which are all in boxes on the floor and window seats of a particularly adorable alcove. I encouraged her to rent a climate controlled storage space for these things. And a dumpster for all of the things she has held on to over the years she no longer needs.

Of course, don't throw away things that may be beautiful or useful to someone else. I also encouraged her to select a charity that is looking for clothes and smaller furnishings (I get something in the mail at least once a week from Boys and Girls Clubs or a veterans group looking for just such items) and contact them about their pick-up policies. Setting the time for them to come by to pick things up is another way to keep on track. You know you have a deadline.

Finally, if you find your schedule is unrealistic, change it if you have that flexibility. Just because you want to have your house on the market by mid-September doesn't mean you've missed the entire market if you put it off for 2 weeks. If you don't have flexibility, hire someone to help you. Stagers are very often trained in down-sizing as are professional organizers. While you may want them with you through the entire process, you may also be able to work with someone for a day or two to tackle the really difficult tasks. When they leave, you will not only have accomplished a great deal, you will know exactly what you need to do to complete the job. And that's money well spent.

Ann Anderson is the owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and the co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

It's Not The Offer Starting Price That Matters, It's The ENDING Price!

2011-08-05T17:13:00.000-07:00

This is the best advice I've ever heard on the subject of THE OFFER. Negotiating price and terms can get quite emotional for buyers and sellers alike. I really like what Liz and Bill Spear have to say .... "a buyer liked your home enough to make an offer. You may not like the first number they come to you with don't be offended and remember .... they liked your house enough to make an offer!" Just counter with something you find reasonable. I hope you enjoy this great post as much as I did!

Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton 513.265.3004 http://www.liztour.com/

It's Not The Offer Starting Price That Matters, It's The ENDING Price!

Some home negotiations are a sprint, others a marathon.

Some offers start close to list price, others are what is commonly called low ball.

As participants in this home buying and selling dance, there's probably as many different strategies as there are homes on the market. If we do this, what will they do? How about this tactic instead? What's Plan B, C, & D??

Can you keep it rational, or do you get spun up and let an emotional reaction get in the way of selling your home?

Now part of our REALTOR® job is trying to keep everyone on an even keel, to continue the negotiations to the point one side or the other decides not to proceed.....but we want that discontinuation to be because we couldn't achieve that meeting of the minds on price and terms, NOT because one side or the other is furious with the other!

And the most likely source of emotional fuel has to be that initial offer price, that supposed "low ball" price.

Now there's a few things to consider as a home seller:

They LIKE your home enough to write an offer!
They LIKE your home enough to write an offer!
They LIKE your home enough to write an offer!

Get the point? There's LOTS of homes on the market and they chose YOURS to TRY to BUY!

Now they can START their offer at whatever price they want, we ONLY care about getting them to an acceptable END price! While agitating, they can take it to that acceptable END price in one move, or twenty small bumps! They want to take their time? Fine with us, because while they're dickering around, another offer just may come in that trumps their gamesmanship! Been there, done that, closed the deal!

Not every offer will succeed. Sometimes the buyers need to go find out a bit more about the market before fully realizing they're going to need to do better to get what they want. It's critical that we don't burn any bridges during the initial negotiations so they feel comfortable coming back. We've twice had the same buyer offer THREE times to one of our listings before finally submitting an offer that got the job done!

So remember, keep the end point in mind with EVERY offer. Don't reject outright, counter on your terms. Keep communication open. Keep it civil. Keep the bridge open and unburned!

It's not the starting line that matters, it's the FINISH LINE!

Serving Warren County's residential real estate needs, Liz and Bill aka BLiz

The Liz Spear Team Elizabeth & William Spear RE/MAX Elite Two locations: Lebanon & Mason, OH
Office direct: 513-248-3660 Liz direct: 513-265-3004 Bill direct: 513-520-5305 Fax: 866-302-8418 EHO MailTo: Liz@LizSpear.com Visit: http://www.liztour.com/

Tips for a Successful Open House

2011-08-01T11:51:00.000-07:00

Once you've done all of the work to make your home showhouse ready, it's time for an open house. And your goal for the open house is just like your staging goal - to make the house stand out from all of the others. Oh yes, and to sell it quickly! Your Realtor will take care of the marketing, but there are many things you can do to make sure the house shows well. Here are a few things that may help:

Have balloons outside the house (and on all of the signs the Realtor places to direct people) so no one driving by can miss it.
Invite the neighbors. They are probably curious anyway - and they just may know someone who would like to live in their neighborhood.
Remove the pets, and all evidence you have them.
Create a scrapbook of information about the town, local attractions, photos of the house in different seasons, neighborhood events - anything that will show what a great area this is to live in. And what a pretty house, no matter the season.
Offer light refreshments. You don't need to get fancy, but the house will smell delightful if you bake some cookies. Serve them with lemonade in an area you would like for people to linger - perhaps on the deck, by the picture window, in the spacious kitchen.
Play soft music. Make certain it's very soft, but relaxing.
Have a mortgage representative on site to answer financing questions.
If your market is particularly sluggish, think creatively to get people to come by. Offer a raffle or a door prize. Pay someone to play the piano. Make it a wine and cheese event. Whatever you think will entice potential buyers to stop by.

Rest assured that if you've staged your home successfully, once you get them in the house, they will want to stay to see the house.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Priced NOT to Sell?

2011-07-29T04:04:00.000-07:00

Realtor Brenda Mullen wrote a fabulous featured post Priced to Sell!!....Aren't They All? In a witty, lighthearted yet insightful way, Brenda asks a very good question .... aren't all homes on the market priced to sell. What's the alternative "priced NOT to sell"?

I think Brenda's intent was to poke a little fun at the silly things Realtors sometimes say in their advertising. And the phrase "priced to sell" IS pretty silly. If a house is not priced to sell - house for sale, there's a problem.

This post and the many great comments it received got me thinking about sellers who are not realistic about their asking price. You may think a home stager like myself shouldn't be concerned with such matters. After all, I should only care about lamp shades, pillows and paint chips, right? Wrong!

This particular central Connecticut stager is VERY concerned about list price. You see I don't just make houses look pretty, I prepare houses to SELL. It doesn't matter how great it looks when I'm done with it - if a house isn't priced right it is not going to sell - and I won't feel like I've accomplished my objective.

This is why I urge my staging clients to LISTEN to their listing agent when it comes to determining a list price!

If a seller is not willing to be realistic about price, there's a good chance that seller is simply not emotionally Ready2Sell....yet. Sometimes all they need is a little time and patience getting there. Perhaps you've noticed, sellers who are not emotionally ready to sell, have a funny way of getting in the way of their own home sale success. They might overprice their home, refuse to properly prepare it for sale and maybe even make it difficult to show (go here to learn other signs of "Seller Sabotage Syndrome"). And if an offer does come, something inevitably goes wrong during the negotiations.

There's an unexpected upside to working with a stager that you might not be aware of. During the weeks (or sometimes months) it takes to get a home ready to sell, home sellers start removing the items that keep them emotionally connected to their home. They start packing and getting ready to move on to their next home. They study their competition. They start looking at their house differently - through the eyes of their potential buyers. The stress, the fear, the overwhelm starts to evaporate because they feel supported through the process.

Sellers who take the time they need to go through this process (and it cannot be rushed) experience the most success. Why? Because they've done what it takes to become emotionally ready to list their house and with that usually comes a willingness to listen to their agents about price. If they're unwilling to go through this process, that could be a sign they're not that serious about selling.

Of course sellers MUST realize they're NOT going to get more for their house than its worth because they went through all that trouble! Staged homes sell faster because they have broad appeal. Properly preparing a home for sale can help sellers avoid price reductions but it does NOT justify an unrealistic asking price.

**************************

Recognizing that hiring a stager is not a practical option for many home sellers, my partner Ann Anderson and I created the Ready2Sellin30Days system. It's designed to aleviate the stress and overwhelm associated with the entire home sale process.

It's NOT your typical "staging" manual. It's a comprehensive do-it-yourself guide to properly preparing a home for sale - it covers overcoming emotional attachment to preparing for an open house to EVERYTHING in between. Check out http://www.ready2sellin30days.com/ to learn more!

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Engaging the Senses

2011-07-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

Whether you are moving or staying in place, engaging the senses is an important part of a decorating - or staging - plan. Of course, when you are staying, you can engage the senses in whatever way appeals to you and your family. When selling, you want to pay a bit more attention to the buying public, which means you may want to tone things down just a bit. But still think about how to engage all five of the senses. Here are some suggestions:

Sight. Of course, this is the most obvious. So much of what we do when we stage involves what the buyer is seeing. Everything from curb appeal through the house and into the basement and garage should be in good condition and decorated appropriately. Colors should be warm and inviting, but not over-stimulating.

Touch. Even if potential buyers don't touch items in a room, texture can bring depth and warmth to a space. Soft pillows and throws in a bedroom 'feel' cozy, woven textures are interesting in a space with a lot of smoother textures, and plants are a natural texture which help a room feel inviting. Make sure a room has enough texture to make it interesting and warm, but not enough to be a distraction.

Smell. We've discussed this in other blog posts, but we can't say it enough. The house must smell fresh and inviting but without using fake or chemical scents. That means essential oils are ideal, particularly in citrus scents (which smell clean) or those that are calming (such as lavendar).
Taste. The buyers won't necessarily be tasting anything in the house unless you provide refreshments for an open house (always a nice touch and one that can incorporate smell with the baking of cookies). But a bowl of fresh lemons on the kitchen counter may remind the buyers of the taste of lemonade. Or the scent of vanilla may remind buyers of the taste of vanilla, a 'homey' taste to most people.
Sound. Soft music in the background can be very welcoming. Just make sure the sound stays in the background and is one that isn't too distracting. Many Realtors complain that sellers leave music on too loud, so be careful! The sound of flowing water isn't good in the bathroom, but can be very relaxing on an outdoor deck or in a sunroom.

So pay attention to your five senses to make your house the one that potential buyers remember!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System.

Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities

2011-07-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

If you're selling a home in today's estate market you're likely facing some pretty big challenges. Today's market might be presenting you with some pretty big obstacles to success...

All of the following people overcame amazing obstacles. They all have something in common. Do you know what it is? They include:

Thomas Edison
Winston Churchill
Walt Disney
Richard Branson
Jay Leno
Cher
Whoopi Goldberg
Tom Cruise and
Ted Turner.

The challenge they all have in common - they're all dyslexic! And the the role that made each of them famous required a lot of reading. Do you have any idea how hard it is for a dyslexic person to read?

I absolutely love this story not only because I have a niece who's dyslexic and I have a son, who's not dyslexic but he does have difficulty with reading. I find it so inspiring to hear stories of people who didn't let challenges and obstacles like these keep them from being successful.

Some inspiring quotes to ponder on overcoming obstacles....

"We are built to conquer environment, solve problems, achieve goals, and we find no real satisfaction or happiness in life without obstacles to conquer and goals to achieve."
~Maxwell Maltz

"If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere." ~Frank A. Clark

"It still holds true that man is most uniquely human when he turns obstacles into opportunities." ~Eric Hoffer

"Most of our obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them, we should make up our minds to walk boldly through them." ~Orison Swett Marden

"Stand up to your obstacles and do something about them. You will find that they haven't half the strength you think they have." ~Norman Vincent Peale

"Obstacles will look large or small to you according to whether you are large or small."
~Orison Swett Marden

I receive inspirational quotes just like these every morning - they put me in a better frame of mind to overcome the obstacles I face in my life .... there's no better way to start the day! Sign up for free at MyDailyInsights.com and you too can receive daily inspirational messages in your email box each day.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Staying or Going - How Do You Determine Appropriate Furniture Sizes?

2011-07-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

Moving, especially into a smaller home, can always be a bit challenging when determining what will work in the new space. It can be easy to overestimate how much space you have in your new home, especially if it's vacant. And even if you're not moving but buying new furniture, it's still a challenge! Seeing the furniture in a large warehouse can make it seem much smaller than it actually is, causing problems when you try to fit it into your space. So what can you do to make certain you are moving or purchasing the right sized furnishings?

First, measuring is always important. Make certain you know all of the measurements of the furniture, including the height. Once you have the measurements, you can draw a simple floor plan or you can use a free service on the Internet such as Floorplanner to help plan your room. This won't necessarily help with the height unless you also draw an elevation, so make sure you know the location and size of windows and doors. Then make certain the placement of the furniture doesn't cover a window (even partially) or impede the opening of a door.

It may be helpful to make full-size templates of the furniture, then have fun placing the templates in the actual room. You can move them around to make certain you get the correct size and placement. Just remember these templates don't take into consideration the mass of the furniture.To help take that into consideration, here are some measurement guidelines that may be helpful:

Primary walkways through rooms should be 36" wide. That's the size of most doorways so it feels normal (rather than crowded).
A main seating (or conversation) area should measure about 10' x 10' - and definitely no more than 12' x 12'.
Seating for television viewing should be approximately 3 times the measurement of the screen away from the screen.
The distance between the sofa and the coffee table should be about 18". Leg room in front of a chair should be the same.
Clearance between two beds or a bed and the wall is 18"-24".
Dining room chairs (when under the table) should be a minimum of 24" from the wall (or the china cabinet or buffet if those are against the wall).
Space in front of dressers or chests of drawers should be 36".

Of course, there are always exceptions to every 'rule'. But keeping these in mind when you plan your furniture placement will make moving or furniture deliver day a breeze!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Dealing with the Negatives - Every House Has Them

2011-07-15T13:59:00.000-07:00

Stagers like me are always saying how important it is to accentuate the positive. Of course we want to highlight a home's BEST selling features but what should we do about those not-so-positive aspects of a home? They must be dealt with ...notice I did NOT say covered up.

Here are a few ideas for dealing with the negatives, after all, every house has them...

Problem 1: Unsightly view from a window

While we're frequently heard extolling the virtures of letting the natural light pour through windows, what do you do when the view from the dining room window is of your neighbor's ugly wood pile or garbage can? In these situations, it would actually be best to leave those drapes shut tight and/or keep the blinds closed. You can't necessarily hide a less-than-attractive view but you don't need to call attention to it either.

Problem 2: Traffic noise

We know it's all about location, location, location. So what do you do if you live on a busy street or near a highway? How do you tone down the traffic noise? Some solutions include installilng solid fencing materials and/or stone or brick walls. Trees, raised planters, shrubs and evergreens can do wonders as diminishing the noise level while also giving you something prettier to look at than the highway.

Problem 3: Your neighbor's house Is a run-down mess

Is there one house that's bringing the property values in your neighborhood down? If you've done everything you can to make the house you're selling beautiful and the house next door is an eyesore, what do you do? Perhaps its a vacant foreclosure with a jungle of overgrown grass for a front lawn or a home in disrepair that an elderly neighbor just can't keep up with. Instead of grumbling about what a problem it, find out who owns the house and offer to help them. Round up a few other neighbors [who are just as bothered by the sight of this home] and ask if they'd like to pitch in and help out. You could also organize a fund raiser or take collection and hire someone to take care of the cleanup. (photo by Trostle)

Problem 4: You've moved all your furniture out and all you can see are flaws in the floors and walls.

Contrary to popular belief, rooms do not appear larger when they're empty, actually the opposite is true. Selling a vacant home has its challenges. When you take all the furniture out the only thing left to look at are the stains in the carpet or the cracks in the walls that just about every home that's ever been lived in has. Renting furniture is a great because it gives buyers a much better idea of the best use of each space. If you can't rent furniture then do make sure all the walls and ceilings are freshly painted, the floors are polished and in good repair and the carpets have been cleaned or replaced.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Do Stagers Work Like Those People on TV?

2011-07-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

I love the post Karen wrote last week about what stagers do - and what they can't do (like sell a house with a bowl of 'magic' fruit). Along that vein, I found this great article by Cathy Tarrant. She really breaks it down by sharing a simple list not only of what stagers do, but HOW they do it. And she is absolutely correct. Television is entertaining, but it doesn't tell the truth about staging. Professional stagers know what needs to be done - and they share it in an appropriate way with their sellers. Here's what Cathy said:

A well trained home stager will first find something positive to say about the house and then say something like, "We can help you make your home even more attractive to buyers".
How we address some of the points (with tact) during the 2 hour consultation:
1. De-clutter..... "It would be a good idea to pack up as much of your things as possible. With all the potential buyers coming through your house, it would be terrible if something got broken/damaged or even stolen."
2. Neutralize.... "I personally LOVE this colour in your living room, but to appeal to the greatest number of buyers we need to neutralize it." (We choose the colours).
3. Clean..... "I have worked with (Merry Maids or similar) before...they can help you keep your home in pristine condition. Would you like their number?"
4. De-personalize... "Buyers can become distracted looking at your photos/diplomas, etc, and not see the house for what it is. Also, personal items make it more difficult for them to visualize themselves living in your house."
5. Update & repair......"Simple updates like replacing dated light fixtures, faucets, countertop, hardware on cabinet doors, etc will increase the selling price of your home. Also, repair/replace worn or outdated flooring, leaky faucets, squeaky doors, cracked window panes, etc. You will easily recoup the cost".
6. Remove pet/smoking odours....(Statistics show that bad odours are the biggest turn-off for buyers...even more than uncleanliness or outdated decor. There is a tactful way to say it)....eg. "I'm a pet lover/owner myself and I think you will agree that pets, (esp dogs) have an inherent smell". We explain that all the carpets/upholstery, soft window treatments, etc will have to be professionally cleaned or possibly replaced.
7. Curb appeal..... "Most buyers will to a drive-by of your home to decide if it is worth pursuing further, before they even contact the realtor. So make sure it has the WOW factor!"
All these points (and others...depending on the particular house) are further enlarged upon in the written report which we give to the client, usually within 48 hours. In this report we will also indicate the most important things to be done on a scale of 1-10....one being most important, etc.
AFTER all these things are completed, we come in and 'showcase' (stage) the home using our proven techniques. This may include:
1. Removing, re-arranging, re-purposing furniture and accessories. In some cases furniture/accessories will have to be rented or purchased.....(which we source and arrange for delivery).
2. Addressing traffic flow
3. Creating a focal point in each room
4. Hanging appropriate art in the right places and the correct height
5. Hanging window treatments
and many other things, depending on the house. The home will be in 'Open House' condition when we finish. This process can take a whole day and often more, depending on the size and condition of the house. Sometimes we may prioritize what needs to be done if the client would like to keep within a certain budget.
Often there are many hours spent planning the design, sourcing the inventory needed, setting up delivery times for rental companies/retail companies, paperwork and the list goes on. The day or so that we spend in the house actually doing the 'hands on' things is just a fraction of the time we spend on other related but necessary duties. After the house sells we have to de-stage.... pack up everything carefully, arrange for truck to return the rentals, usually pack our own vehicles with our inventory that was rented, etc.
So this is what home stagers REALLY do. It is a physically demanding job and not quite as glamorous as those TV shows portray it!

Cathy Tarrant CCSP
HOMESTYLING BY CATHY
St. John's, NL
Canada

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cathy_Tarrant
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6269576

That Strategically Placed Vase of Flowers Make Your House Sell Faster. Really?

2011-07-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

Is there anyone out there that actually believes this? Every profession sure has its misconceptions! In a great article by J Phillip Feranda, (Forbes: List with the Guy Driving the BMW) we learn that some people believe you can actually judge a real estate broker by the car s/he drives. Seriously, who believes this nonsense?!

This article reminded me of a conversation I had recently with an old friend from high school. She couldn't wait to share some juicy gossip - one of our former classmates was actually doing that crazy thing "where you place the bowl of fruit in such a way it makes the house sell faster". I asked if the fruit was magic because it sure takes a lot more than that to sell a house today. It's funny she was quite certain that this was what "home staging" was all about - you know, just like on HGTV. Her rolling eyeballs made it clear how silly she thought all of it was. Of course when I told her that I was in the staging business she nearly fell on the floor.

Every profession sure has its misconceptions .... I have other friends who believe home staging is a glamorous profession. They've obviously never done it. Staging can be a downright dirty job that sometimes requires some pretty heavy lifting. Is it fun? Yes. Rewarding? Absolutely. Glamorous? Not so much. We're often quick to judge what others do - but we really have no idea until we've done it. Some people believe that all real estate agents have to do is ride around in fancy BMW's opening doors to pretty houses. Now THAT sounds glamorous!

Every profession sure has its misconceptions. And if you ever heard a good lawyer joke, you know what I'm talking about.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

A Great Way to Get Rid of Stuff You No Longer Want or Need

2011-06-30T05:16:00.000-07:00

Is it time for you to do some de-cluttering? Here's a great way to get rid of stuff you no longer want or need...

Check out your local Freecycle Network. It's a non-profit group of millions of people giving and getting all kinds of stuff for FREE right in their own towns. The best part is keeping our unwated items out of landfills.

Go to http://www.freecycle.org/to find a Freecycle network near you.

If you like this tip, you'll find 100 others that are just as helpful in Ready2Sellin30Days "LITE" 101 Tips for Preparing Your Home for Sale During Tough Economic Times COMING SOON. Go here to sign up for the Home Sale Success with Karen and Ann Newsletter and be the first to find out when we're ready to launch this exciting new product!

Furniture Placement Tips

2011-06-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

When your house is on the market - or you are working with others to get their homes ready for market - it can be easy to get into the 'decorating' mode. And while it's certainly important to make houses on the market attractive, inviting, and memorable, it's important not to focus too much on the furnishings (which aren't for sale) and instead place the emphasis on the positive features of the house (which is for sale). Here are a few tips to do just that:

Make certain the furniture is arranged so that walking through the rooms is effortless. That means the major walkways should be at least 36" wide (the width of a normal door) so they don't feel crowded, making the room feel smaller.
Keep furniture away from all doors and cabinets so they will be easy to open. Buyers will be checking everything, so make their job easier for them - as well as make the spaces seem larger.
Arrange furnishings in living and family rooms so the emphasis is on a focal point of the house such as the fireplace or a beautiful window. That means ensuring these natural or architectural focal points are the first things the buyers notice when entering the room.
Antiques, unusual furnishings, or very large pieces of furniture draw attention to themselves rather than the house. If possible, remove from houses that are on the market.
Sectionals can take up a lot of space, so if the room feels crowded with one in it, see if it can be separated into 2 sofas.
Unless the dining room is very large, remove the leaves from the table and keep only 4 chairs around it.
Beds should be placed opposite doorway so they don't block the doorway and are the first thing to buyers see. In most bedrooms the bed is the focal point, so make it inviting.
If possible, place an upholstered chair in the master bedroom and remove all office and exercise equipment. Help buyers envision relaxing in the quiet of their sanctuary at the end of the day.

While these tips may not sound like much, they will go a long way towards making houses feel inviting and spacious, as well as ensure the focus stays on the house.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Decorating Dimensions

2011-06-23T20:41:00.000-07:00

Decorating Dimensions

This handy resource guide will help you remember a few home decorating MATH FACTS.

Hanging Artwork

Artwork should fill 2/3 of the horizontal space above furniture.
The bottom of artwork should be hung 3”- 6” from the top of the furniture.

Artwork with no furniture beneath it should be hung 55" - 60" above the floor and should fill 2/3 of the wall space.

Furniture Placement

Maintain a distance of 30" - 36" for main walkways around furniture. Anything less than 30" will appear too crowded.
Area rugs (generally 6' x 9' or larger) help ground seating areas, just make sure there's no visible space between the rug and the furniture.

Lighting

Use a minimum of 3 regular size (not accent size) lamps per room. Placing them in the shape of a triangle will ensure dark spots in a room are illuminated.
Chandeliers should be hung 26" to 36" above the dining table.

Window Treatments

Hang drapes and panels 6" - 9" above the window casing (if possible). This will make the window appear larger.

Valances should be 18" - 20" long. If possible hang them so that the bottom just reaches the top of the window glass, covering the casing and blinds.

If you like these tips then you'll LOVE the Ready2Sellin30Days do-it-yourself home study program. Ready2Sellin30Days is designed to help you prepare your house for sale in 30 days, more or less by assigning a different task for you to complete every day for 30 days.

Week 1 - Focuses on identifying your home's strengths and weaknesses, getting you emotionally prepared to sell and making those minor repairs.

Week 2 - Will inspire you to start packing for your move by getting your house organized, de-personalized and de-cluttered.

Week 3 - Starts with inexpensive ways to update your home with PAINT (complete with how-to's, tips for selecting interior and exterior paint colors). Then moves on to an action plan for getting and keeping your house spotlessly clean.

Week 4 - Is all about setting the stage....furniture placement, accessories, artwork window treatments and more - all on a budget because NO ONE wants to spend a lot of money on a house they're selling!

In Ready2Sellin30Days you'll find tips, checklists, action items, how to's and ultra inspiring success stories from stagers and real estate professionals all over the country - (you may recognize more than a few names).... check out Ready2Sellin30Days.com for a sneak peak.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Making a Good First Impression

2011-06-21T04:24:00.000-07:00

It's true you only get one chance to make a good first impression. And nothing is more important than that first impression when your house is on the market. In most places, it is definitely a buyers' market, so if you don't grab their attention from the time they pull up to the house, you may not grab it all all.

So curb appeal is definitely important. That includes the obvious such as a well-kept lawn, a freshly painted house, and driveways and walkways in good condition. But it's also important to go that extra mile. Make your approach to your front door memorable. That means adding a few touches like flowers lining the walkway or pots placed strategically to add color and interest. (We've told you before about the importance of the front walkway being in great condition.) Then make sure the front door looks beautiful (replace that screen or door if necessary) - and is easy to open! And of course nice touches like a new welcome mat, pretty lights, and more pretty flowers make your potential buyers feel like invited guests.

Part of that curb appeal means the garage door should be in great condition, especially if it's in the front of the house. It needs to be freshly painted with clean windows - and if it's dated at all, replace it.

But even if you've done all of these things and your house is gorgeous from the outside, you could still lose your potential buyers when they walk into the house. The first way is of course smell. We've talked about that before so you know all the tricks. But after that, the potential buyers need to feel like the house is warm and inviting. And there are a few simple tricks to do that:

First, make certain the lighting is good. The chandelier (if there is one) should be updated, clean and with all the bulbs working. And a table with a lamp (regardless of the chandelier) is always a very nice touch.
A large rug that adds warmth and color makes any entry feel inviting, so add one if you don't have one. Make sure the size is as large as your entry hall can hold (smaller rugs break up the space) and the colors are warm and inviting, not jarring or out of place.
Make sure everything is spotless! The front door and entry are great places for fingerprints to collect, so clean thoroughly. In fact, painting is always a good idea. You can choose a warm, inviting color - and those fingerprints will be nowhere in sight!
Finally, clean out the coat closet. This is the first opportunity the potential buyers will have to see just how you actually live, so make the impression a good one. The closet should be only half full and there should be little or nothing on the floor.

While the curb appeal and entry into a house on the market aren't the only things that matter, they certainly set the stage (in the buyers' minds) for what's to come. Leave your potential buyers wanting to see more!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Who Says You Can't Take it All With You When You Go?

2011-06-16T18:14:00.000-07:00

Who Says You Can't Take it All With You When You Go?

Who says you can't take it all with you when you go? The hardest part of preparing for a downsize move is deciding what to keep and what to get rid of. If you're moving from a 3 or 4 bedroom home to a one bedroom condo or apartment, then you're going to have to make some pretty tough decisions about what you can take with you when you move.

Realizing you can't take all your treasured possessions with you can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety. Here' what I suggest....

Take your time sorting through your things, it's not a process that can be rushed. Decide to keep ONLY those items that are most precious to you.
For that which you can't take with you, decide how you're going to give those items a new and loving home. Items can be sold (ebay, antique shops, Craigslist, yard sales, estate sales, etc.); donated (Goodwill, Salvation Army, churches, schools, shelters, etc.) and given to loved ones (just make sure the recipient of your choosing actually wants what they're being given - try not to be offended if they're not).
To ease some of those painful feelings you will no doubt have, take photos of all the treasures you must get rid of. This is one way you can look at your stuff every day without it taking up any space at all! When you're done taking pictures, create a special memory album and be sure to enlist the help of your children and/or grandchildren. Just working together creating your memory album will create even more happy memories!

Who says you can't take it all with you when you go?

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

How to Find (and Work With) a Stager

2011-06-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

While our goal is to give advice to sellers (and often to people who are staying in their house but just want some ideas), there are times when it's a good idea to call in a staging professional. A pair of trained eyes can help sellers make the best decisions because professional stagers understand the importance of a cost/benefit analysis when making these decisions. They also know what's important to the buying public, as well as those things that aren't so important. So they help sellers focus their time, attention, and dollars to the areas that are most likely to sell the house.

If you decide you want or need to work with a stager, how do you go about finding the right one? First, as with any contractor, ask for referrals from friends and family who have either used a stager or know someone who has. Asking your Realtor or a Realtor you know and trust is another option. Of course you want to make certain you are comfortable with the recommended stager, so be sure to conduct a phone 'interview' to discuss both your needs and how the stager can help.

If you don't have any personal recommendations, you can always google 'real estate staging' followed by your town. You will probably find several links to people in your area. You may also find associations who have lists of professional stagers. Either way, you can follow the links to the stagers' websites for further information.

When you are evaluating the websites, make certain they look and feel professional. This is like a storefront, so it should be inviting and leave you wanting to find out more. If there are 'before' and 'after' photos, review them. But don't be overly concerned if there aren't any. If the photos aren't taken by a professional, they may not be good enough to show on a website. Instead contact the stagers whose sites you like and ask lots of questions about their experience and the services they offer. And ask for references!

As you are conducting your telephone 'interviews', make certain you feel comfortable with their level of expertise, their professionalism - and their listening skills. Are they really listening to you as you describe your needs or have they already decided just what you need? All houses on the market are different. Professional stagers understand these differences and realize they must have lots of information before coming up with a plan to meet your needs.

And finally, make certain you like the stager you select. After all, you may be spending a great deal of time with him or her. You want to make certain the experience is a pleasant one.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, founding member of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

When Divorced Couples Have a Home to Sell

2011-06-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

I recently read a very insightful blog post written by Scott Hayes on the subject of Divorce and Real Estate. Scott offers wonderful advice that should be required reading for any couple with a home to sell who's going through a divorce. Scott tells us.....

"As soon as a couple files for divorce, you instantly form a business relationship. When a home is involved, that is most certainly the case. Although it is very difficult to keep emotions in check, it is imperative that divorcing couples become partners in the business of home ownership."

Selling a house can be quite emotional and difficult for the happiest married couples. For those going through a divorce, the process of selling a home can be excrutiating. The pain of the divorce is enough to put even the most sane person right over the edge - add the stress of selling a home and you quite often have a situation that's absolutley unbearable. I know. I am going through a divorce right now and it is by far THE most difficult thing I've ever done.

Sellers: If you have to sell your home because of a divorce, take Scott's advice and try to keep those emotions in check. I KNOW, I KNOW - that's easier said than done - but there's so much at stake! You could end up making a very costly mistake that you'll regret later on.

Do whatever you have to do to put that hurt, resentment, hate, fear or whatever else you're feeling aside. Get counseling, join a support group, spend time with family/friends who are positive and supportive, read inspiring literature, exercise, pray, meditate. Do whatever works for YOU.

Give yourself TIME to process the many emotions you're experiencing right now. If possible, take time to grief the loss of your marriage before you take on the sale of your house. It's a process that can't be rushed.

Most importantly, hire a competent and reputable Realtor to represent you. Be honest about what you're going through and make sure that person has experience with your type of situation.

Remember the job of an agent representing a couple who's hostiile or not communicating is extremely difficult. Your agent wants to help you - don't make the job any harder than it needs to be.

Agents: Please try to be patient. Your divorcing sellers might be acting strange or childish but please don't judge them. I'm not proud to admit that for a long time I judged people who chose divorce. I believed they just didn't try very hard and they're taking the "easy way out". Of course now I'm one of them and I can say that belief is NOT true [for me at least].

If you've never been divorced, then you have no idea the kind of pain the sellers you're reprenting are experiencing. Or maybe you have been through a divorce and it all went smoothly for you - just remember not every couple is so fortunate.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Exterior House Painting

2011-06-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's very important......just like the inside. This is the first time the potential buyers will see the house, so the impression needs to be a really good one.

To determine if a paint job is necessary, walk around the house slowly and look at EVERYTHING. That means the trim, the soffits, the shutters, as well as the siding. And don't forget the deck and the trim around windows and doors. Is the paint peeling? If so, that probably means a new paint job. But if not, you may want to try power-washing first. It's amazing how simply washing off the dirt may make the paint look like new. Or perhaps power-washing and painting the trim will do. But be honest in your review.

If you do find you need to paint the entire house, now isn't the time to make a design statement with your color choices. Of course, the easiest paint job is one that matches the old paint colors. But if those colors need updating, now is the time to make a change. Before deciding on the color, take a drive around your neighborhood and look at homes that are similar to yours. Consider as possibilities the colors that appeal to you without being too dramatic. You want your house to stand out as 'the pretty one' or 'the one that's in great condition', not 'the one with the purple shutters'.

Keep in mind both your part of the country and the emotional impact of colors. Blues can feel cold, so selecting a shade of blue in an area that is cold and snowy during the winter may not be the best choice. But it may be perfect for that seaside cottage in the warm south. Colors with yellow undertones can be very inviting, while a soft gray may be nice in warmer areas.

You can always go with simple selections such as a beige exterior with white trim as neutral colors are always a safe bet. Then you can add color with landscaping - perhaps colorful pots by the door and on the deck, with beautiful annuals in the flower beds. You may even want to make a dramatic statement with the front door - red can be a great choice.

If your house is from a certain period or of a certain style, you may want to consult the experts at the paint store for an appropriate color palette. Or do research on your own to determine the best choices. But even when relying on the experts, you may need to tone down the suggestions just a bit to make certain your home is memorable for all the right reasons!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Buying Furniture for Your New House

2011-06-02T19:20:00.000-07:00

You're buying a new house and you have to wait a few weeks or even months before moving in. This time is filled with excitement and anticipation. If you're like many home buyers you just can't wait to buy new furniture but.....when is the best time to buy?

I strongly suggest waiting until after you've moved into your new home before making decisions about purchasing big ticket items like furniture - ESPECIALLY if those purchases are made on credit. Large credit purchases made close to the time when you're closing on a house could interfere with your ability to get final approval for your mortgage. Don't take any chances and consult with your mortgage professional before making ANY large purchases.

There's another really good reason why it is best to wait to buy new furniture until AFTER you've moved in -the furniture you buy might not work in your new space. Unless you:
1. have had the opportunity to take EXACT measurements of every room;
2.  are working with a decorator;
3. are absolutely certain you can return your purchases for a full refund;
you should consider living in your house for a while before making expensive furniture purchases.

You may discover after you've lived in your new home that you need to do a few renovations that could impact your furniture needs. Or you might decide on a different use for certain rooms than you had originally intended. Or you might not have noticed that some areas of your new house are unusually narrow and your new furntiure won't even fit through the door or hallway.  You just don't know your new house until after you've lived in it for a while.

Remeber, furniture always looks different in the showroom than it does in your house. Don't get stuck with furniture that doesn't work in your house as well as you thought it would. Use the weeks and/or months before closing on your new home to SHOP around, compare prices, think about what you might like in your new home and of course - take notes. If possible, put a few pieces on lay-away, just make sure you get your deposit back if you change your mind.   Resist the tempatation to make large furniture purchases until after you've lived in your new house for a while.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Top 10 Buyer Mistakes

2011-05-31T10:41:00.000-07:00

Normally we cover just what home sellers need to know about preparing to sell their homes. But today we're going to change things just a bit and share with you the Top Ten Mistakes Buyers Make in Buying a Property. This article is courtesy of the Kunselman Team, based in Longmont, CO. After all, most of our sellers turn again into buyers. And Luke and Shelley have wonderful advice for buyers - and sellers. If you are either, we suggest you sign up for their information packed newsletter!

1. Not using a REALTORS®

A very big misconception when it comes to buying a home is that you will pay more if you use a REALTOR®. The reality is that the REALTOR® fees (both buyers and sellers agents) are typically paid out of the sellers proceeds. This means that it cost you nothing more to have a trained professional help negotiate on your behalf.

2. Not getting Pre-Approved BEFORE looking at properties
Going out and looking at homes if fun. But if you don’t know how much you can afford, you might fall in love with a home that you can’t qualify for; or even worse you can qualify for but the payment ends up making you “House Poor”.

3. Make a new substantial purchase (car, truck, new furniture, big vacation) right before or during the process of buying a home
If you are really serious about buying a home, you need to put other big purchases on hold. These big purchases could easily prevent you from buying the home you really want, by increasing your debt to income ratio too much.

4. Ignore past credit issues rather than correcting/repairing them
It would be nice if inaccuracies or other credit problems would just go away if you ignored them but they don’t. Today’s lending market is getting tougher and tougher to get a mortgage. Old delinquent accounts on your credit report (even if it is wrong) can prevent you from buying the home now.

5. Jump from one Mortgage Broker to the next
In the beginning, you need to decide what Mortgage Broker you want to work with. Jumping around will only complicate the process. Find a Mortgage Broker that you can trust will deliver on their promises and charges a fair price and work with them.

6. Listen to friends/neighbors/family advice rather than trusting their professionals
REALTORS® and Mortgage Brokers must go through hours and hours of education and licensing requirement to hold those titles. If the professionals you have chosen to work with are giving you advice, it is probably a good idea to listen to them. The people who earn their living in the Real Estate Industry are much more qualified to give you advice than most friends and family members.

7. Expecting REALTORS® or Mortgage Broker to cut their fees or Trying to Start a Bidding War between REALTORS® or Mortgage Brokers
There are some things in this world that you can benefit from by getting two service providers in a bidding war, BUT BUYING A HOME IS NOT ONE OF THEM! The most skilled and experienced professional in the Real Estate Industry refuse to compete on price. Instead, these professional compete on quality of service. Remember, you always get what you pay for.

8. Not being fully honest (full disclosure) with your Mortgage Broker about past financial problems
If you have had a financial problem in your past, your Mortgage Broker needs to know about it up front. Many problems in qualifying for a mortgage can be eliminated or worked around if they are dealt with in the beginning. Nothing will kill buying a new home faster than unexpected problems arising from lack of full disclosure.

9. Expecting to buy the best house for the cheapest price
Nothing is forever, you might have to buy and sell one or two properties before you get your dream home. When buying a home, you need to be realistic about what you can comfortably afford. If you are pushing the limits of what you can afford, what are you going to do when you hit a rough patch; and yes, you will hit a rough patch.

10. Not collecting and supplying requested documentation to your Mortgage Broker ASAP
Getting a mortgage now can be a lengthy process. If you are not quick to get requested documents back to your Mortgage Broker, it will only make the process even longer. Be prepared with the basics (2 years of full tax returns and w2s, 2 months of all bank statements, 30 days paystubs, explanation and documentation for special situations such as bankruptcy, foreclosure, credit inquiries), but also be ready to get updated or additional document as they come up.

Reprinted by permission - thanks Luke and Shelley!

Buying Decisions Are Emotional

2011-05-26T18:50:00.000-07:00

Buying decisions are emotional. In last week's post, How to Strike Fear in the Hearts of Buyers, I shared how easy it is to unwittingly trigger negative emotions in your home buying prospects.

This week I'd like to share how to tap into your buyers' emotions in a positive way - and it's not as hard as you might think! You can use decorative accessories to suggest all kinds of feelings like warmth, coziness, peace, serenity, prestige, etc. Here are just a few ideas of how it can be done.

Suggest romance with candles and flowers on a night stand or jet tub.
Bring to mind a feeling of coziness by strategically draping a quilt or afghan at the end of a bed or sofa.
Imply a feeling of calmness and serenity by using soft lamp lighting instead of glaring overhead lights.
Luxurious linens ooze comfort, relaxation and warmth.
Don't forget - your fireplace is a selling feature. Conjure up feelings of comfort and warmth by lighting a small, cozy fire on cool days during open houses and showings.

If you like these ideas, you'll find 100 others in Ready2Sellin30Days "LITE" 101 Tips for Preparing Homes for Sale During Tough Economic Times. COMING SOON - you'll be the first to know when we're ready to launch this exciting new product!

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Landscaping Checklist

2011-05-23T07:16:00.000-07:00

During the staging process, it's easy to focus on the inside and put the outside of the house on the back burner. But now that the weather is warm, landscaping becomes very important to staged homes. Here is a checklist of items to pay close attention to:

Make certain bushes aren't covering up any of the windows. If so, trim them back before the new growth becomes unmanageable. Not only do you want potential buyers to see the windows from the outside, you want the view from the inside to be sunny and open.
If you need to add new plants to the flower beds, consider ones that are more mature to make more of a statement.
Make certain borders of flower beds are clearly defined. You don't necessarily need to add a border, but use a spade to mark the boundaries. Remove weeds and add fresh mulch.
Make certain the path to the front door is visible and inviting. If grass is encroaching on the walkway, remove it. If pavers have become embedded in the grass over the winter, take them up and reset them. If potential buyers can't see the front walkway, they won't feel welcomed into the house.
Keep houses rolled up, toys out of the yard, and trash cans and recycling bins out of sight.
Make certain your house numbers are visible from the street and in good condition.
Don't forget the sides of the house, even if no one goes there. Your potential buyers will!

Remember, buyers will often drive by houses that are for sale before they consider making an appointment to see the inside. Make certain you've done everything you can to ensure they want a second look.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

How to Strike Fear in the Hearts of Buyers

2011-05-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

Tapping into the emotions of your home buying prospects is easy. You can use all kinds of decorative accessories to evoke positive feelings such as warmth, comfort, relaxation, prestige, serenity, etc. It's just as east to tap into buyers negative emotions as well!

If you want to strike fear in the hearts of buyers, here's what you need to do.....

Let your pets wander around freely while your house is being shown. There's always a chance that a prospect will be frightened of or allergic to your pet. A greeting from your pet the moment they step through your door just might cause them to run away screaming, sneezing and/or scratching.
Leave home improvement projects unfinished. Buyers can't escape fast enough from a house that looks like some sort of money pit. Not to worry - there are plenty of fearless investors who would love to make low ball on a house that's not quite ready for market.
Use flowery room deodorizing sprays and burn scented candles and inscense. This will surely make your buyers very sucpicious of what kind of mysteries you might be trying to cover up.
Keep dated wallpaper exactly where it is. Wallpaper AND [since we're on the subject of scary and dated] popcorn textured ceilings are equivalent to a great horror flick.

There are many, many ways to scare buyers away IF that's what you really want to do. Of course overpricing your house has to be THE MOST EFFECTIVE way to keep those pesky house hunters far far away! Seriously folks ... relocate those pets, make the minor repairs, correct the cause of your household odors, remove that wallpaper and listen to the advice of your Realtor when pricing your house!

Related Posts:
Your House Speaks Volumes .... What Messages Are You Sending?
I've Never Met Anyone Who Likes Doing It
What to do with a Popcorn-Textured Ceiling
How to Remove a Popcorn-Textured Ceiling

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System. Call 860-302-0333

Helpful Advice for the Home Seller

2011-05-16T05:54:00.000-07:00

I taught a real estate staging class last week and we had the opportunity to work with a seller to prepare her home for sale. It was a great experience for the class - and the seller - so I thought I would share some of the things the class (and the seller) learned that can make preparing to sale your home a bit easier.

First, this is a fabulous time to determine what is really important to you. Moving is never easy, but doing it with less 'stuff' helps a bit. Go through each room to decide what goes and what stays. Start with the things you can see as these are the things that will matter most to the potential buyers. That means furnishings, artwork, accessories - what do you love and what are you ready to part with? For those things you are ready to part with, would someone else be able to use or enjoy them? If so, decide whether you want to sell or donate them. Otherwise, they go in the trash pile.

Then of the things you love and want to take with you, how personal are they? Will they tell the potential buyers who see your home too much about you? Will they cause a distraction? If so, pack them now for the move. Not only will that make staging the house easier, but it will also mean less to do when it's time to move.

If you have decided you are going to sell some things, determine how you will do that. Will you conduct a tag sale? Send them to a consignment store? Have an estate sale? Advertise through the newpaper or online? Determine what really makes the most sense based on the items you have to sell and the time you have to complete the task and schedule accordingly. A word of caution: make certain you are choosing the best means of disposal given both the items you have and the time to complete the task. Having some extra cash from a tag sale may sound like a great idea, but is this really feasible based on your schedule? If you will be selling items at a later date or packing them for the move, find someplace to store them in the meantime - preferably someplace that won't interfere with the actual staging of the house. These items should be out of the house before it goes on the market.

If there are updates and/or repairs to be made, have those done when you have sorted through the rooms. That will make any necessary moving of the furnishings much easier because there will be less to move. Once these updates and repairs have been completed, it will be much easier to place the furnishings back into the room in the way best suited to showcase the house while it's on the market. Schedule these in a logical manner to keep things from becoming too chaotic. For example, have one room painted at a time. That way you will be able to move the furnishings back into that room and stage it while another room is being painted.

Take the time while you are sorting through the rooms to interview contractors for the work you need done. It's very important that you get the proper contractor for the job - someone who not only does good work, but who is also reliable and can be counted on to show up on time and complete the job on time. Get referrals from family and friends - and always check references!

Putting your house on the market is very stressful, as is the entire moving experience. Do what you can to plan and prepare to make staging your home a good experience.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Listen to the Advice of Your Realtor!

2011-05-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

Your Realtor really does know, as this article by Jonathan R. Richards says!

If you resist the advice of your agent when he or she tells you to get your home market ready, it just may cost you thousands of dollars. However, that is exactly what happens quite often when some homeowners are asked to make the much-needed changes to the inside and outside of their homes. A word to the wise; listen to their recommendations.

Some people feel uncomfortable when they have to inform the homeowner as to just what needs to be changed in their home; especially after he or she has received the listing. In this regard they may quietly hire a professional stager to do the job for them. However, home staging people usually come with a very high-price tag and you can stage the house yourself as long as you are willing to make modifications as to the way you think. You'll need to start viewing your property from a marketing standpoint rather than a place where you reside.

The place to start in order to make the house easy to show is the front of the house. Keep the lawn neatly manicured. Needless to say, any thing that has signs of fading or chipping should be repainted. Also replace the doormat if it is unsightly. Try to make the home as inviting as possible from the outside and your prospect will be excited about getting a chance to actually see what it looks like on the inside.

The next step to staging your house is to take a critical assessment of each room. The rooms to address first are the bathrooms and kitchen. These two areas are the ones that will usually effect the selling price the most. Therefore, it is very important so make sure that you provide all of the necessary upgrades; like swapping the old style faucets with a more modern version, removing all of the stained grout and replacing it with a better kind and possible installing some kind of bathroom ceiling fan.

Without a doubt, the living room should be made to appear to be able to accommodate a large family. This means that everything that is not currently being used must go; somewhere. Spare pieces of furniture like chairs, end tables and storage cabinets should be relocated to the cellar or some other storage facility. The larger the home looks, the easier it will be for you to attain your asking price.

In conclusion, try to view your home objectively. Make believe that you are the person who is considering spending your life savings on a home. Do you think that it is a good buy, or not?

Jonathan is the author for By Owner Illinois, a company that places For Sale By Owner (FSBO) properties on the MLS for a low one time flat fee. To learn more, please visit By Owner Chicago

How to Avoid a Painting Disaster

2011-05-04T13:33:00.000-07:00

Have you ever painted a room and then hated it when you were finished? I have. Fortunately it doesn't happen often. But as far as I'm concerned once is one time too many and it is a disaster because I REALLY don't like painting!

When this happens we're stuck with 2 rather unpleasant choices. Live with the color and hope we learn to like it OR muster up the enthusiasm to repaint the room and hope it comes out better the second time around (whether you do it yourself or pay someone else to do it you lose either time or money).

If you've been looking for an easy way to predict what a paint color will look like BEFORE you start painting then you've come to the right place! Start your next painting project with the Sherwin Williams Color Visualizer. You can test a variety of paint colors in a room before you ever buy a drop of paint! There are over 1,500 paint colors to choose from.

Just go to the Sherwin Williams Color Visualizer website, upload a photo of a room in your house you'd like to pain and begin experimenting. When you're through you can print out the color information AND a coupon and take it to your local Sherwin Williams store.

Be sure to send us your pictures - we'd love to know how your project came out!

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System and the Resident Stager at North Star Real Estate in Southington, Connecticut. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Preparing the Outside

2011-05-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

Finally the time is here when we can really showcase the exteriors of homes for sale as well as the interiors. At least for those of us in the northeast, this has been a long time coming. But now that nicer weather has arrived, houses on the market can look as beautiful on the outside as they do on the inside. The house should appeal to the buyers as soon as they pull up to the curb. If they aren't impressed before they walk into the house, it may be hard to overcome their concerns once inside. And the backyard should reflect a wonderful space for living - and entertaining. Here are a few ways to make that happen.

Of course you want to make sure the lawn and flower beds are well-kept, which means mowed, weed free, and freshly mulched. But there's more........do a thorough inspection and see how the entire house fared over the winter. Is the paint or siding in good condition? And don't forget to check the garage door, especially if it's visible from the street!
What about the trim? If it feels a little tired or dirty, perhaps a powerwash will take care of winter grime. If not, you may need to consider a new paint job. If so, choose a color that fits the climate, the house, and the neighborhood.

The front walkway and porch are next in importance. The front walkway needs to be clearly delineated and inviting so potential buyers feel welcomed to the house. Make the front porch welcoming by updating the screen door (if there is one), the front door, and the lighting fixtures. The addition of a couple of plants by the entrance are a wonderful touch.

And finally, don't forget the back deck or patio. This should be staged just as you would interior rooms, with comfortable seating, a welcoming and functional arrangement, and 'accessories'. Seating should include a main area that can easily seat 6 in an arrangement that invites conversation. There should also be tables so everyone can set down their food and drink. If there is a sofa or loveseat, a coffee table is a wonderful addition. Set up a table and chairs for dining in a different area, but nearby, with the grill (if there is one) placed closely, creating an eat-in kitchen effect.

And don't forget the 'accessories'. While it's important not to overdo, the addition of colorful plants will make the space even more warm and inviting. Remember the rules of accessorizing indoors - don't clutter, arrange in odd-number groups (three is ideal), and vary the heights. Pillows are another nice addition, perfect if you need a little more color or pattern.

The outside of the house is considered an indicator of what's to come inside, so make certain potential buyers are enamored as soon as they pull up. And as the weather warms, the backyard becomes additional living and entertaining space for family and friends. Make certain it feels warm, welcoming, and inviting - just like the interior!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

When Your Parents Sell the House You Grew Up In

2011-04-29T06:43:00.000-07:00

So, your parents are getting ready to sell the house you grew up in. If you're like many adult children, you might not be happy with their decision. Even though you don't live there any more, you're probably attached to that house and all the memories it contains. The thoughts of someone else living there could be absolutely unbearable to you.

While it's not uncommon for adult children to be sad to see their parents sell the family house - try not to interfere with their decision. The house could be getting too difficult or too expensive for them to maintain. And depending on their health, the house might not even be safe for one or both of them any more. Sure you might be willing and able to help them take care of it - but they might be too proud to ask.

Parents [typically] make a lot of sacrifices for their children and at some point that has to stop. Parents should not be forced to stay in a house that longer serves them just to appease their adult children.

No doubt, making the decision to sell was very difficult, and they're probably emotional about it too. You parents need to do what is best for THEM. They need your support and maybe even your assistance. Try to put your own feelings aside and help them. Talk to them about their decision. If they're excited about their move, try to get on board with those feelings (even if it means pretending at first).

For seniors who have lived in the same house for a number of years, the process of sorting through years of accumulated stuff can be very overwhelming. There are lots of things you can do to help your parents, here are just a few:

1. Round up your siblings and get rid of all the stuff your parents have been storing for you in their attic or basement. They have enough of their own stuff to sort through right now, they shouldn't have to decide what to do with your old clothes, toys, comic books, baseball card collections and/or college text books.

2. Offer to help them but let them stay in control of the process. Allow them to go at their own pace.

3. If you're worried that your parents will get rid of some things that are precious to you, talk to them openly about it. Be sure not to ask for something unless you're certain they're ready to part with it.

4. Parents often start giving things away that their children might not want. While you shouldn't be forced to keep something you don't want, do try to be as tactful as possible about it. Emotions run high during times like these and feelings could very easily be hurt.

5. If you can't help out because you live too far away or if your work and/or family obligations are too excessive, offer to research professionals in your area who may be able to assist them. Look for professional organizers, move managers and stagers that specialize in helping seniors with their downsize moves.

Even if you are close enough and are not too busy to help, you might still want to seek out the assistance of a professional. An unbiased, unemotional third party might be just what your family needs right now!

Perhaps you feel your parents are making bad decisions about the sale of their house or are being irresponsible. Share your concerns with a trusted family member, friend or attorney. Remember that in the end it's ultimately up to your parents to decide what's best for them - even if that means they're spending your inheritance.

Related posts:

Staging4Smooth Transitions - Solutions for Seniors Stuck in Houses They Can't Sell
So You're Thinking About Downsizing

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System and the Resident Stager at North Star Real Estate in Southington, Connecticut. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Use Your Trusted Friends!

2011-04-25T07:19:00.000-07:00

When we are working on our own houses to prepare them for sale, we may not always be able to be objective. After all, we have lived in the house and made it work for us. When we evaluate it from the potential buyers' perspective, we may not be able to get past how we lived in the house. After all, if it worked for us, won't it work the same way for everyone else?

Then answer is......maybe not. And even if the buyers turn the dining room back into an office (just as you did), that isn't the way you want them to see the house. You want potential buyers to see a dining room that can be used for entertaining, holiday get-togethers, fun times - even if that isn't how it will eventually be used.

To help you figure out what what you might need to change about your house before you put it on the market, have a trusted friend walk through it with you. Make sure your friend understands the goal you are trying to accomplish - to make your house appeal to the largest number of potential buyers possible. Then start outside and have them share with you what really works - and what doesn't. Walk through each room and ask for their feedback. Remember, this isn't personal. It's all about the house.

Here are some things that may be easiser for them to notice than you, so ask them the questions - and pay close attention to the answers:

When you approach my house, do you feel welcomed? If not, why not?
As you come in the front door, is there anything that is not appealing to you? Pay particular attention to odors, lightness or darkness, colors - anything that doesn't say 'welcome'.
Do any of the rooms feel cramped or crowded?
Is there anything that feels too personal about the house?
Is the lighting good? Even in the evenings, will potential buyers be able to see the rooms clearly and comfortably (without too much or too little lighting)?
Are there any furnishings that draw too much attention? If so, the potential buyers will not be noticing the house (which is for sale) but rather the furnishings (which aren't).
Do each of the rooms feel warm and inviting? Can you picture yourself relaxing, entertaining, enjoying time with family - or doing whatever else is important in each particular room?
Do the kitchens and baths feel clean, up-to-date, and move-in ready?

If the answers to any of these questions indicates one or more of the rooms need a little help, determine what that help might be. Do you need to remove some of the furnishings? Rearrange them? Buy a slipcover or perhaps new bedding? Add a lamp or two? What about an area rug for warmth? Work with your friend on those items that will make the house even more appealing. Be willing to listen to their suggestions and make changes, keeping in mind your goal - to sell the house quickly and for top dollar. And remember, your trusted friend can help you do just that.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System.

How to Sell Your Home in Ten Days

2011-04-21T22:26:00.000-07:00

How to Sell Your Home in Ten Days

I love success stories! Here is PROOF that houses ARE selling - when [and only when] sellers do what they need to do. I hope you enjoy this post as much as I did - Peggy "speaks MY language" when it comes to preparing homes for sale. Read and be INSPIRED.....

This home had been listed for one week when we received two offers on it, one of which the sellers accepted. I have also had listings that have sat on the market for much longer before they have sold. What's the difference?

We have been in a tough real estate market: lots of inventory, high absorption rates, choosy buyers, job security woes. But the upside is that there are great houses on the market, lots to choose from, and really great interest rates.

So was there anything different about this house that made it sell so fast? Yes! The owners did everything they could to present their home in the best possible light. Here are some suggestions if you want to sell your home fast:

1. Do the upgrades now.

The owners knew that they would eventually be moving so the began early to make all the improvements they felt they needed to do to sell their home. All the mechanicals were replaced, central air was installed, the windows and roof were replaced, and the interior was changed to appeal to today's buyers. They installed new hardwood floors, used designer paint colors, decluttered and depersonalized, and bought a few new pieces of furniture for that model-home look.

You don't have to spend a lot of money to improve your home; there are several low-cost improvements that anyone can undertake.

2. Be ready for every showing.

The owners established a routine of keeping the home clean and in show-ready condition. Every showing was an A+ because they used a few quick tricks to keep their home in show-ready shape. Granted, they do not have young children and that made it much easier, but they do have a dog that does a lot of shedding. Everyone has challenges, and homeowners have to figure out how to manage those. If you have small children, storage will be key so that you can quickly tidy up before showings.

3. Make showings as easy as possible.

The homeowners made sure that they were reachable at all times. They always had their cell phones on and let me know if they were going to be away at any time. They cheerfully packed up the dog as quickly as possible if there was a last minute showing, and, as was mentioned above, they prepared the home every morning in case there might be a showing that day. The agents who showed the house always mentioned how appreciative they were that showings were not a hassle.

4. Price your home competitively.

This home had been on the market before at a much higher price, and it did not sell. There were quite a few showings, all with positive feedback, but there were no offers because it was priced too high for the market. This time around, however, the homeowners took a very realistic look at the market statistics and at their goals. Their objective was to sell before a certain time and they agreed on a price that would accomplish that. Many homeowners feel that they don't have to sell, and so they "take a stab at it" with a price that is too high. Most of the time, they won't sell at that price and will set the right price when they decide that they do have to sell. Taking a "see what happens" approach to selling a house will not produce the desired results.

If you are thinking of putting your home on the market and would like a quick sale, consider doing some of the things these homeowners did. You too may be able to sell your home in 10 days.

This post brought to you by: Peggy Chirico, REALTOR® Serving the Greater Hartford Area Prudential CT Realty peggychirico@gmail.com 860-748-8900

If you are buying or selling a home in Hartford County or Tolland County, please call me, email me, or visit my website. I would be happy to help you with your home search or provide a market analysis for your home.

Find your dream home now!

So You're Thinking About Downsizing....

2011-04-21T19:39:00.000-07:00

So You're Thinking About Downsizing....

Are you getting tired of cutting the grass and shoveling snow? Are you uncomfortable lugging laundry baskets and groceries up and down stairs? Perhaps the thought of moving sounds good, but the thought of selling your home and and moving to a smaller space overwhelms you. If so, you're not alone!

Making the decision to move to a smaller space is extremely diffiuclt for many older adults. If you've lived in your home for several decades, then leaving it may feel like an enormous loss. If your children have moved on, it may feel like your house is all you have left. You may think that your house is keeping you connected to those happy memories of years past, BUT none of that matters if your house is no longer safe for you.

Here's a checklist that might help you decide if it's time to move on. Give careful considering to the following questions:

Your Neighborhood

What is your neighborhood like?
Do you feel safe?
Do you feel vulnerable to home invasions?
Can you get to places like the bank and supermarket easily?
Are the sidewalks in good repair?
Do you feel isolated?

Your Home

Can you keep up with basic household maintenance, repairs and yardwork?
Can you keep up with the housework?
Do you have to use a dangerously narrow or steep staircase to reach a bedroom, laundry room or bathroom?
Is your kitchen easy to navigate?
Can you reach cupboards easily without posing a safety hazard?
Can you get in and out of the tub or shower easily?
Can you keep up with the laundry?

Your Own Physical Limitations

Are your memory and vision still good?
Would you or your spouse ever forget about a pot on the stove?
Have you ever left the water running and forgotten about it?
Can you remember to take your medications?
Can you pay your bills on time?
Are you able to prepare heathy nutritious meals for yourself?
Can you easily clean up a spill before it becomes a slipping hazzard?

Has driving become difficult?

A downsize move to an apartment or a retirement community could certainly be a good move. Perhaps your loved ones are putting pressure on you because they're concerned abou your safety. Very often the need to make a downsize move appears obvious to everyone but to the senior who has to make that move. You MUST be emotionally ready!

Take time to think through your decision. This is not a process that can be rushed.
Talk to people who you may know that have made the move. Ask them if they're happy with their decision.
Perhaps those who have traveled this road before you can provide advice to help you through the process.
Do your research. That condo or retirment village might not be as expensive as you thought.
Talk to reputable real estate agents in your area. It may not be as impossible to sell your home as you might think.

Realize that there are many people and resources who you can call on for help when help is needed. I'll be more than happy to help you find a Senior Move Manager, a Professional Organizer, a Professional Real Estate Stager and/or a Realtor in your area who specializes in helping seniors with their real estate and/or downsize needs. Feel free to give me a call!

Exciting news Staging4Smooth Transitions - Solutions for Seniors Stuck in Houses They Can't Sell

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is an author, speaker, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System and the Resident Stager at North Star Real Estate in Southington, Connecticut. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

What a Difference a De-Clutter Day Makes

2011-04-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

I know, I know.....it's spring and everyone's thoughts seem to turn to de-cluttering. But it is astonishing the difference de-cluttering can make. Why should we wait until our house is on the market to experience the freedom that making a little space can give us?

I decided to do some of this after starting to read Apartment Therapy. For those of you who have read it, I am definitely a 'warm' person, although I like to give responsibility for all the stuff around our house to my husband. But that's not really true. And because both the book and the fact that we may down-size in the not-too-distant future motivated me, I started the process. Here's what I have learned:

When you find something you haven't seen for a while and you start to have memories about it, enjoy them - but don't get lost. Think about the good things this particular item reminds you of, then move on. Getting lost in memories can become a delaying tactic for doing the work.
Don't decide when you re-find something that you will once again use it, or wear it, or otherwise enjoy it. You won't. There was a reason you haven't missed it.
It's a good idea to have 2 or 3 large boxes handy. One is for things you are giving away, one is for things you are throwing, and the last one is for things you will be putting in your tag sale - if you are going to have a tag sale.
Don't decide without thinking about it that you will definitely have a tag sale. This involves a great deal of time and energy. It can definitely be a good idea if you do it correctly. But if you've never done it, you may want to talk to people who have to find out if it's right for you. And if you still think you want to have one, read the Ready2Sellin30Days system for great information on exactly what you need to do.
If you think you may have a tag sale, keep all of the items you will be selling in a particular location. If after 6 months you still haven't had the sale, donate these items. Chances are you won't have that sale after all.
It's okay to have an undecided pile. I do realize it can be a bit difficult to part with everything, especially if you're doing this all at once. But put these items some place where you will see them so you will remember them. Give yourself a time limit. If you haven't worn, used, or enjoyed them in a certain amount of time, they go into one of the other 3 piles.
Start small. You don't have to de-clutter the entire house in one day or one weekend. Pick a cabinet in the kitchen that really bothers you. Or a shelf in the bathroom. Or the table by the side of your bed. Choose someplace you see regularly and that gives you an unhappy feeling every time you do. The feeling that comes from having that space once again neat and spacious will be a great motivator to tackle the next shelf.

Of course if you're under time pressure (say, that moving truck is coming in a couple of weeks), enlist the help of family and friends. Make children part of the process by having them select where they would like to donate those items they no longer need. Offer friends the pick of the items you will be getting rid of as an enticement. Make it a fun project and reward yourself with a treat - sharing a glass of wine with your helpers, trying out cupcakes from that new bakery, ordering take-out from your favorite restaurant. But the true reward will be from the wonderful feeling you have with just a little more space around you. And unpacking in your new home is so much more fun when you're not wondering why in the world you bothered to pack that ice cream scoop!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Looking for a Fresh New Approach to Preparing Your Home for Sale?

2011-04-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

Are you a "do-it-yourselfer" who could use some guidance getting your house ready to sell? Then the Ready2Sellin30Days is just what you need! You will learn everything you need to know about evaluating your house, determining what needs to be done and making those changes in the quickest, most economical way possible. With Ready2Sellin30Days, you have at your fingertips ALL the information and inspiration you need to achieve home sale success!

About The Ready2Sellin30Days System:

Each day you will be given a different task to complete. You’ll know what to do, how to do it, when to do it and why it is important. From overcoming emotional obstacles you may have to the sale of your home to arranging furniture and accessories to appeal to buyers to everything in between. We didn't hold back - it’s ALL in there!

Not sure where to begin? You will find a multitude of tips and hints to point you in the right direction.

Finding this process a bit overwhelming? The daily motivational quotes will keep your spirits high. And the ultra-inspiring Home Sale Success Stories at the beginning and end of each week will definitely keep you on the right track!

Seeing is believing! Study the wide variety of photos of beautifully staged homes. You even have a place to post your own before and after photos. The Complimentary Photo Journal provides you with the perfect place to showcase the transformation of your home and chronicle your journey to a successful sale.

And if all that isn’t enough you can listen to the CDs of recorded interviews with industry experts from all over the country and hear fabulous hints and tips on organizing, packing, moving, feng shui practices, vacant home staging and more!

The Ready2Sellin30Days system will make the entire sales process go more smoothly, more quickly and for greater reward. Beware of the dangers involved! You could like your house so much by the time you’re through with it … you might not want to move!

[Attention Home Stagers: Please don't think we're trying to put you out of business - this program is strictly for do-it-yourselfers ... you know, the ones who are NOT calling us. We've created an affiliate program to help you GROW YOUR BUSINESS using the Ready2Sellin30Days system. Contact us to find out how!

About the co-creators: Karen Bernetti, Professional Home Stager and former Realtor joined forces with Designer, Stager, and Educator Ann Anderson to provide a comprehensive system for preparing homes for sale that's unlike any other! Benefit from our years of experience – from working with buyers and sellers to educating staging professionals – and learn what you need to do to enjoy home sale SUCCESS! Visit http://www.ready2sellin30days.com/ to learn more!

Space Robbers

2011-04-11T12:04:00.000-07:00

By now everyone knows that lots of little accessories make spaces feel smaller than they are. Things on kitchen counters, too many clothes in the closet, and crowded drawers and cabinets all make the space feel small. But there are a few things not everyone knows that can really make a difference when it comes to feelings of spaciousness.

Small rugs break up floor space, which can make an entire room feel small. While rugs can make a space feel warm and ground a seating area, if they are too small, they create divisions in the room. This can even be true in hallways and bathrooms. While rugs may bring softness to a room of hard, cold features, keep them the color of the floor to make the bathroom appear larger. And remove them altogether from hallways.

Rugs aren't the only thing that breaks up space on the floor. In fact, anything on the floor can do the same thing. Keep closet floors free of all items, including shoes. Put them on an upper shelf (preferably in boxes) or on a small shelf on the floor. Even though they are still near the floor, the space under the shoe shelf is clear, making the closet floor seem clear. And while you're at it, take out-of-season clothes and store them elsewhere to give more space in the closet. A good rule of thumb is to have the closet no more than two-thrids full. Of course, donating clothes you didn't wear all season is also a great idea - that much less to move!

Groupings of small photos do to walls what small rugs do on floors - they break up the space, making the room feel smaller. If you want to keep these groupings, put several photos together in one larger frame. Even if you have more than one large frame, as long as the frames are very simple, have off-white mats, and are exactly alike, the space will feel larger.

Bold patterned draperies and upholstery can be also visually overwhelm a room. If your furniture has lots of pattern, try ready-made slipcovers to make it less busy. Once you move you can show it off once again. But for the time your house is on the market, the rooms will feel less congested.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

I've Never Met ANYONE Who Likes Doing IT...

2011-04-07T21:51:00.000-07:00

I've never met ANYONE who likes doing IT....

IT is not difficult. But IT is messy....

IT is not expensive. But IT is time-consuming....

Home sellers hate doing IT. Home buyers hate IT even more....

A few serious home sellers will do IT - but most will not (and then wonder why their house isn't selling)....

Home buyers will typically choose a house where IT doesn't have to be done....

What is IT?

Care to take a guess?

IT is a dreaded home improvement project hated by most....

Do you know what IT is?
-

'IT' is removing wallpaper. If you're interested in making your home irresistible to buyers, then you should really do IT whether you like IT or not.

Today's choosy home buyers prefer a home that is move-in-ready and they tend to bypass homes that require updates. It is very difficult to live with someone else's wallpaper selection, so it will be well worth the time and effort spent removing it. I know you don't want to, but remember, your buyers won't want to either.

Removing wallpaper is one of those inexpensive projects that most home owners can take on themselves. Like I mentioned before, it's not difficult, but it can be time-consuming and messy. Here's how it's done...

Some wallpaper can be stripped dry. Others require a removal solution. If there is going to be any damage to the wall, it will come from the way the wallpaper was initially installed.

Do some basic preparation. Gather 3" to 6" scrapers, a ladder and/or a step stool.
Remove everything from walls including outlet and light switch covers.
Protect flooring and furniture by covering with plastic sheets or a drop cloth.
Test spray a small area of the wall with a wallpaper removal solution. Concentrated remover solution that is mixed with water - or often just water - works well.
If using a solution, you should find that it dissolves the adhesive wallpaper backing, making it easy to remove the paper. You might also try water mixed with fabric softener or vinegar for more difficult jobs.
Determine the grain of paper. Can it be stripped left to right, top to bottom, or in reverse?
If wallpaper won’t come off, spray with remover solution again and let it soak longer. It may require several applications. As a last resort, use a scoring tool in a circular motion to cut tiny holes in the paper, then saturate wall with spray mixture again.
Scrape walls again being careful not to gouge them.
Clean walls with a damp sponge to remove all residual wallpaper and paste. Let it dry for a few days before painting.

I've never met ANYONE who likes doing IT....Sure, you'll hate doing IT. But remember your buyers hate IT even more.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is also the co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System and the Resident Stager at North Star Real Estate in Southington, Connecticut. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Keeping Your House Show-House Ready

2011-04-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

Having your home on the market is no fun.......keeping everything neat and clean and ready to show at the drop of a hat! But it's important. If you get a call for a showing, unless it's absolutely impossible to show because you're having a birthday party or someone in the family is really sick (okay, there are probably a couple of other reasons, but not many!), you need to be ready quickly. But you can keep the stress level down a bit as you quickly prepare if you follow these tips:

Keep a basket by the door to throw in those things that haven't found a home yet - the unopened mail, the dry cleaning. the homework - and put it in the trunk of your car. You can sort everything when you return.
Keep bathroom wipes under all sinks. Before you leave, do a quick clean-up. And be sure to put the toilet seats down.
Keep like-new towels under the sink as well and do a quick switch when you clean.
Have everyone make their beds first thing in the morning. That way, they're ready at any time.
When you use a dish, put it in the dishwasher. No hassles when show-time comes - just wipe the sink and go.
If your pets travel via carrier, keep one in the car at all times. Then you only have to pick up Fluffy and put him in the carrier.
Open window treatments as a part of your morning ritual. No need to rush to do that when the call comes.
Put a drop of essential oil (citrus scents are best) on each light bulb in the morning. As you leave the house (regardless of the time of day), turn on the lamps. Not only will the lamp light feel inviting, but so will the gentle scent.
•Involve your entire family in this process. Make it fun by keeping a checklist posted on the refrigerator. (Just remember to take it down for showings.) You can award points for each task that's done. At the end of the day or week, the most points gets a reward - perhaps getting to choose where to go during showings.

Of course, you will still need to do your weekly thorough cleaning, but a bit of daily preparation will make the entire process much easier!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Banks Are Finally Starting to Get IT!

2011-03-31T23:04:00.000-07:00

Banks are finally starting to get it! According to an RISMEDIA article March 19, 2011, "...banks are spending thousands of dollars on some foreclosures. In addition to new paint and carpet, floors are being refinished, old windows are being replaced, and leaky roofs are being repaired .... in the past, banks rejected such suggestions, viewing them as throwing good money after bad."

For years real estate stagers and real estate agents have been advocating the practice of sprucing up a home to help it sell faster and for more money. Banks like, Wells Fargo are finally starting to recognize the value in this advice. The article explains how the quality of foreclosures (and the communities where buyers are finding them) is improving. This is causing regular consumers - not just investors - to be more interested in these properties.

Apparently banks are starting to realize that by enticing the average home buyer, they'll lessen their inventory of foreclosed homes. This will likely benefit banks and home buyers by making it easier to obtain a mortgage for bank owned properties. It is difficult to secure financing for a home that's “uninhabitable” because of needed repairs. Could this increase home values? Maybe. While foreclosures will still sell at a discount, the prices of the houses that have been improved won't be as low as those properties deemed "unlivable" - which could help the broader real estate market.

Investors needn't worry - there will still plenty of dilapidated foreclosures on the market to choose from. Some bank-owned properties in certain neighborhoods won't ever be worth improving. After all, if the furnace or copper pipes were stolen once, it's a good chance it could happen again. With the quality of their competition improving, traditional home sellers have plenty to worry about. They will need to try harder than ever prepare their homes for sale AND they will need to be much more realistic in their pricing. That foreclosure for sale down the street may look a lot more inviting to prospective buyers in it's improved condition.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor and owner of Staging4Smooth Transitions. She is also the co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System and the Resident Stager at North Star Real Estate in Southington, Connecticut. Call 860-302-0333 860-302-0333 to learn more

Tips for Hanging Artwork

2011-03-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

Whether you are staying or going, there are a few 'rules' about hanging artwork that are always true. Of course, if you're putting your house on the market, you need to be careful of the art you have on the walls. Personal art or photographs should go. Art collections should be pared down and anything controversial should be removed (including religious art). But the art that is left should be hung using the same guidelines you would use if you were staying in your house - and can defnitely be used in your new home!

So here are the things you should know about hanging art:

When hanging artwork above a piece of furniture, make sure the bottom of the frame is 3" to 6" from the furniture. This ensures a cohesive look and feel.
Artwork above furniture should cover two-thirds of the horizonal space. For example, if you hang art above a sofa, make certain the artwork you select fills two-thirds of the space - and does not extend past the ends of the sofa.
If you are hanging artwork on a wall with no furniture, measure 55" to 60" from the floor to the center of the art to ensure proper placement.

When selling a house, avoid grouping small pieces of art as that gives a cluttered feeling to the space. Two or three large pieces are fine, especially if they are framed the same.
Groupings should hang closely together (remember that cohesive feeling), with about a palm- or mat-width between them.
Two evenly spaced hooks will keep artwork hanging straight and will evenly distribute the weight of heavier pieces.

Simple, right? Absolutely!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, founding member of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

How To Compete with Foreclosures

2011-03-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

Discouraged home sellers often ask me how their home can possibly compete against low-priced foreclosed properties in their neighborhood. My answer - the same way Neiman Marcus competes with Walmart. There is no real competition. They simply offer different products and attract different kinds of buyers.

There are different kinds of home buyers too - and sellers need to decide which kind they want to attract...

Buyers are frequently shocked when they learn the condition of many foreclosed properties. Dilapidated foreclosures often have major issues such as water damage, mold, broken windows and missing plumbing fixtures, just to name a few. Do you really think it's difficult to compete against this? If your house is LIVABLE, then you already have a distinct advantage. Of course I highly recommend that you strive for better than just livable. More on that in a moment.

Distressed properties attract buyers who don't worry about condition because they're willing to fix just about anything. We call these buyers INVESTORS. If you want to attract price- conscious investors, just sell "As Is" with a rock-bottom bargain-basement price and an investor will sniff your house out in no time.

Then there are the buyers who don't fit into the investor or "professional rehabber" categories. Many are first-time home buyers who want a house that's "move in" ready. By the way, did you know that first-time buyers made 50% of the home purchases in 2010? They will pass on a house that needs even minor repairs or updates. Of course they want a great price, but most are willing to pay more for a house that's in optimal condition. If you'd like to attract these kind of buyers read on.

There are simple steps you can take to make today's smart, savvy, well-educated, quality-conscious buyers fall in love with your home. These steps are not easy - they usually require quite a bit of time and effort. The good news is, they don't have to be expensive. To attract quality-conscious buyers, the house MUST be cleaner than it's ever been. The dated wallpaper [in most cases] MUST go. The old shag carpet MUST be removed and the hardwood floors beneath MUST be revealed. Bold decorating statements MUST be neutralized. Dated fixtures from decades passed, MUST be replaced. A professional real estate stager can help you evaluate your home and prioritize which projects to focus on.

Finally, after that hard work is done a realistic price tag, obtained by a reputable Realtor is an absolute MUST . Here's the kicker: gone are the days when sellers can actually expect a higher price because they've made these preparations to their home. You must do these things to not only get what your home is worth but also to avoid having to settle for less than what it's worth. In this market it is very unlikely that you will sell for more than your house is worth - the bank that holds the mortgage won't allow it.

Consider the improvements you make getting your house ready to sell as an alternative to price reductions that you're bound to suffer because your house sat on the market for too long. Buyers don't worry, most of these buyers won't be not flocking to the dilapidated foreclosure down the street - they'll more than likely be holding out for that house that is in the best condition.

* Photo courtesy of Aldon

Learn more about the Coldwell Banker First Time-Home Buyer Survey.
Learn more about: What Home Sellers Should Know About Today's Home Buyers.
Exciting News! Staging4Smooth Transitions - Solutions for Seniors Stuck in Houses They Can't Sell

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Owner of Staging for Smooth Transitions in Southington, Connecticut, Former Realtor, Co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System and the Resident Stager at North Star Real Estate in Southington, Connecticut where every listing comes with a complimentary staging consultation. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

What Do Buyers Want

2011-03-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

Home sellers spend a lot of time focusing on what THEY want ... They want to sell their house. They want to sell it quickly. Regardless of the market conditions, they want their price. And more than anything they want all of this without having to work too hard or spend very much money getting their house ready for market.

At my staging consultations and during all of my staging workshops, I tell sellers that while it's good to be clear on your desired outcome - the key to getting your house sold is knowing what home buyers want. Face it, if you don't give buyers what they want, you're never going to get what you want. This shift in focus is a very important part of the home sale process, and it can be very difficult for many sellers.

Coldwell Banker conducted an interesting survey of 300 first-time home buyers who made a purchase in the last year. 87% of the home buyers surveyed said finding a home that is "move-in ready" is important to them.

And it's important to mention that according to the National Association of Realtors, 50% of home purchases in 2010 were made by first-time home buyers.

What's the real take-away from this survey? The condition of a home matters A LOT to buyers. Diann Patton, consumer real estate specialist at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC reports, “on top of that, our agents have reported that on average, first-time home buyers now look at more than 11 homes before making decisions, which is higher than in the past. They can be choosy about what appeals to them and are recognizing the benefits of the low prices and wide selection of homes in many areas.”

Sellers, do yourself a favor. Get very clear on what buyers want and do whatever you can to give it to them. If money is an issue there are MANY low-cost and no-cost things you can do to make your house more appealing to buyers. Sure it will take some time and energy but it doesn't have to be expensive. It won't be easy, but it will be well worth the effort.

Remember, money is more than likely going to be an issue for your buyers too. Today's buyers typically put everything they have into the down payment and may not have much left to put toward fix-ups. To get what you want, you must give them what they want. This reminds me of that great quote by Zig Ziglar...."You can have everything in life that you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want."

Learn more about the Coldwell Banker First Time-Home Buyer Survey.

Learn more about: What Home Sellers Should Know About Today's Home Buyers.

Exciting News! Staging4Smooth Transitions - Solutions for Seniors Stuck in Houses They Can't Sell

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor, Co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System and the Resident Stager at North Star Real Estate in Southington, Connecticut where every listing comes with a complimentary staging consultation. Call 860-302-0333 to learn more.

Staging Really Does Work!

2011-03-14T07:11:00.000-07:00

I had great news from a Realtor on Friday and I wanted to share. I had a lengthy consultation (we actually moved a few things around as well) with a client of hers in early February. The house had been on the market since September but no offers. It was a small colonial that was priced to sell, but it needed a bit of work. And it needed someone to be able to see how this house really would make a nice starter home (even though it had 4 bedrooms), with lots of possibilities. After we discussed the changes (I'll share those in a minute), the client wasn't convinced they were all necessary. But finally she decided to take it off the market, make the changes, then put it back on the market. It went back on last Sunday, had a family look at it on Monday - and Tuesday. And by Wednesday the offer was in hand. This is so gratifying for everyone concerned! And while it did take a little time and effort (but not much money), it was clearly time well spent. Here's what we did......

First, the house didn't have a great deal of curb appeal. It is the middle of winter and there is lots of snow on the ground, but the possibilities of the front porch couldn't be seen because it was storing the recycling bin, the snow shovel, and some boots. My suggestion was to clean this up and add a couple of pots of evergreens by the door to make the potential buyers feel welcome. Because the porch was covered, I also suggested adding a cute bistro table and chair (which the seller had) in anticipation of the spring.

Next was the long, narrow living room, which had a very long sofa (actually a sectional laid straight because there was no room pu in the 90 degree angle). We switched that with a smaller sofa in the downstairs bedroom (which opened into the living room). We also created a cozy seating area with a nice leather chair and a couple of tables - which still left room for us to set up a dining area. And once the paint color was switched from orange to a more welcoming neutral, we had an inviting combination living and dining room.

The house had 3 bedrooms upstairs, with the possibility of a 4th in the room off the living room. But there was no family room and an unfinished basement, so this room became a combination den/office which could also be used as a guest room. But most importantly, it gave a small family a place for the kids to hang out, watch tv, play - and still have space for a desk (from upstairs) so it could be used for homework and as a home office.

Next the kitchen, which was very dated. This is the room that needed the most work because it is such a hotspot in a house on the market. Fortunately the baths had been updated, so we could focus our attention on this room. While a new homeowner might want to redo this at some point, we wanted to make it feel fine for the short term. The cabinets had to be painted and the hardware (including the hinges) changed. While this is a lot of work, the change was remarkable, especially when combined with a few other simple changes (the faucet was replaced, a cabinet that took up a lot of space and only held the microwave was replaced with a smaller, less obtrusive shelf). So the kitchen became more open and inviting - and much more up-to-date. The potential buyers were able to visualize cooking in the space, sharing a meal at the small table (which made it an eat-in kitchen, which is very important), and - best of all - not having to make any immediate changes.

Upstairs, two of the three bedrooms were fine with only a few cosmetic changes. The third room had become something of a home office, so it was converted back to a bedroom when the desk moved downstairs and a bed moved back in. Suddenly a house that felt small opened up into one that could become home to a small family.

There was some decluttering involved, but the rest of the changes were minor. But certainly the impact of those changes was major, with an offer within two days of putting it back on the market. As soon as I have photos (I need some help from the Realtor, who has promised to forward them to me), I'll share. But in the meantime, I'm just enjoying the success!

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of the School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, and co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.

Secret to Home Sale Success IX

2011-03-11T06:03:00.000-08:00

This “One Day Sale Success from Staging” comes from Carra Riley, Ready2Sellin30Days contributor, real estate consultant, author and speaker from Williams, Arizona:

“Sellers in today’s market should strongly consider using a staging agent to create a product that will sell. A home needs to be the ‘best property at the lowest price’ or it may not have a chance of selling. As a Broker and consultant with 30 years in real estate, I believe that staging is the difference between a sale and no sale.
As a consultant, I encourage sellers to spend the money to stage the home so a buyer makes an offer. The best recommendation anyone can have on this issue comes directly from a satisfied seller …

September 20, 2008

Carra, I can't tell you how much I appreciate you connecting me with the Realtors in Havasu. I was so impressed with both of them that it was hard to make a decision. Trying to find them on the phone would have been a nightmare. I may have ended up with someone with no experience and no true idea of the time and place we are in with Real Estate. The fact that you were able to
check comps and confirm pricing was key. I really needed that check point from this distance.

When the Realtor I chose actually went and coordinated the minor renovation the house needed and then did some staging to make it look inviting, I knew I had made the right decision to stay in Denver and leave the details to the professionals. I really think it cost less in the long run to have her decide what to do rather than me come to town and labor over things I don't do every day. The fact that my home sold in ONE DAY may not be the norm but I am pleased as punch. I know it has to do with the fact that you know the market and what works. I just took instruction.

When we entered the Real Estate market in Havasu in 2002 I had no idea of the ride we had just jumped on. Buying the first three seemed monumental but you made the transactions smooth and easy even from a distance …. We have been through some turbulent Real Estate times since 2002. Being a lender in Colorado and as close to the market as I am, I still would not have known
what path to take on many occasions from this distance.

Thanks for staying in touch in good times and really for hanging in there when things took a turn in the Real Estate market. You came through on all 14 of those transactions and I really appreciate it. I wish you the best! I will be happy to share my experiences with anyone.

Ellyn Meister
Arvada, Colorado

For more information on Carra Riley, CRB, CRS, GRI, Real Estate Consultant, Author & Speaker,
contact her at www.CarraRiley.com, www.CosmicCowPie.com, Carra@CarraRiley.com,
http://activerain.com/cosmiccowpie, or Skype: Carra Riley.

This post brought to you by: Ann Anderson & Karen Bernetti, co-creators of the Ready2Sellin30Days Home Sale Success System. Go here to sign up for the Home Sale Success with Karen & Ann Newsletter

Staging to Meet the Unique Needs of Seniors

2011-03-10T13:54:00.000-08:00

Without a doubt, seniors with homes to sell have very unique needs....

Many have lived in the same house for decades, where they've raised families and have strong emotional ties to their homes and their neighborhoods.
Most realize their house could probably use a few updates, but they don't want to spend a lot of money and they may not be sure where to begin.
Countless others have accumulated a lot of stuff over the years - and if they're considering a downsize move, they're very overwhelmed by it all.
Lots of seniors feel trapped in houses that no longer serve them. (Administrators from independent and assisted living communities often share stories of seniors who live in conditions that are downright dangerous!)
Scores of seniors would love to be enjoying the maintenance-free lifestyle of a retirement community, but fear their house will never sell in such a sluggish real estate market.

For all these reasons and more, I've decided to launch Staging4Smooth Transitions, a real estate staging service catering to the unique needs of seniors. Years ago, I became an advocate for home staging because as a Realtor®, I saw how frequently houses were undervalued simply because of the way they looked. Since 2006 I've been compassionately coaching central Connecticut sellers through the home sale process and I've especially enjoyed assisting seniors with their downsize moves.

Experience has taught me - there's a lot more to preparing homes for sale than just making houses look pretty! Home staging is a PEOPLE business. Home sellers need to be tactfully told what to do, how to do it and why it's important. Of course they need practical, low-cost and no-cost strategies for making their homes more marketable, but they also need sufficient time to sort through the wide range of emotions they're bound to feel during this most stressful experience. Most importantly, sellers [as well as their homes and their belongings] need to be treated with dignity and respect.

The dedicated professionals at Staging4Smooth Transitions in Southington, CT are committed to helping seniors get from where they are to where they need/want to be. My team of experts can help with every part of the home sale process....from preparing homes for sale, to move-in services (a.k.a. downsize design) to EVERYTHING in between. Give me a call at 860-302-0333 to find out more.

Karen Bernetti is a Real Estate Stager, Former Realtor, Co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days System and the Resident Stager at North Star Real Estate in Southington, Connecticut where every listing comes with a complimentary staging consultation.

To Cover or Not To Cover?

2011-03-07T07:26:00.000-08:00

When staging a house, there are a lot of things you can cover. And by that I mean things you can cover with fabric, such as sofas and chairs, tables, and beds. But knowing what to cover - and when enough is enough - is important. Perhaps not critical to the sale of a house, but when you are doing everything you can to make THIS house warm, cozy, inviting, and memorable, it can be important to pay attention to a detail like this.

First, if upholstery is dirty or in otherwise bad condition or is just too much (too many different colors or prints going on), I suggest slipcovers. Not custom-made slipcovers, but ready-made ones. They come in a variety of styles and fabrics and can really cover a multitude of sins - for a nominal price. You can see in the photo (courtesy of Surefit) that solid colors (this is the one piece stretch slipcover) can create a relaxing space. Now the focus isn't on the furniture, but on the emotions of sitting in a clean, calm room - and the potential buyers can now also see the house!

However, I don't generally suggest covering up dining or kitchen tables. Unless the table is in very bad condition, tablecloths can be distracting and make too much of a design statement. It is much better to have a smooth expanse of wood (with of course a centerpiece or appropriate accessories) than to cover a table with a tablecloth. The calmness of this room would be broken by the addition of a covering on the table.

In a bedroom, bedding is an important contributor to the overall ambience of the space. But once again, you don't want to make too much of a design statement. Rather, you want the room to feel very calm and relaxing - a perfect place to end the day. So the bedding should be inviting, but again, without making too much of a design statement. Colors should be relaxing and decorative pillows are fine - as long as you don't overdo it. The way to tell if it's overdone is to notice what happens when you enter the room. Is your first experience a feeling of calmness and relaxation? Or do you notice the bedding (or the pillows)? If that's the case, you've gone too far. Tone down the colors, remove a pillow or two and try again.

And, as with any staging props, keep in mind that less is always more! That way, you'll be certain to make the right decision.

Ann Anderson, owner of Rooms Reborn, founder and Director of School of Interior Redesign, co-founder of the Association of Design Education, co-creator of the Ready2Sellin30Days system.