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Obviously, I’m a big believer in staging because I have this business. But in case you are still not convinced…

1.-In a survey of over 3500 homes, professionally staged homes sold for 6% more than their un-staged neighbors. You will get top dollar for your home.

2.- In a recent Real Estate Staging Association Survey, professionally staged homes spent 72% less time on the market. Your house will sell faster.

3.- In a National Association of Realty Survey, over 81% of buyers said it was easier to visualize the property as their next home.

4. -According to NAR, over 95% of buyers look online before they call an agent to schedule a viewing. On-line photos of staged homes look better.

There you go!

The help of a design professional can be huge. I can help with:

• Defining your style and everyday needs
• Finding an ideal color palette & selecting paint colors
• Improving furniture layout & room function
• Establishing a consistent tone from room to room
• Art & accessories placement
• Lighting solutions
• Choosing new materials/finishes such as fabrics, window coverings, rugs etc.

Just as important, a designer will come up with a timeline for the order of what needs to be done to accomplish your end goal. Last, I will help you budget your money wisely…more bang for the buck!

It’s easy to forget about the exterior when you are getting ready to put your house on the market. However, it’s really important to consider curb appeal no matter what time of year it is.

• Clear driveway, sidewalks and steps of ice and snow.
• Install driveway/front yard lighting.
• Upgrade the front entrance. Fresh paint or new front door, fresh wreath. Make sure entrance is well-lit.
• Add a fresh welcome mat.
• Upgrade your street numbers.
• Upgrade empty flower pots or boxes with hearty winter greens.
• Have a timer set for indoor and outdoor lights if you won’t be home before it starts to get dark.
• Hire a professional window cleaner for indoor and outdoor cleaning. Shiny clear windows sparkle even in the winter months.

If one of your New Year’s resolutions will be some form of organization/decluttering, this is for you. As you evaluate your items, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do I use this (not someday)?
2. Is this a duplicate?
3. Would I still buy this today?
4. Does it help make my life easier?

Stay strong:)

As wonderful as open concept is, it can be challenging to figure out how to place the furniture. In large, open rooms, it frequently makes sense to establish zones for different activities: TV watching, eating, work area, reading nook, cozy fireplace seating, are some examples. It also ensures that every part of the space is fully utilized.

Just because your laundry area is small, it doesn’t mean it can’t be super functional and attractive. These examples below show how a well laid out laundry closet can have many great features such as a sink for washing delicates, a folding ironing board, or even a built in hamper.

Removing a dated railing can do wonders for your home, especially if your staircase is in a visible and central location. Combinations of wood, metal, and wire are clean and simple and provide an immediate update for your home.

It goes without saying that a guest room has a good bed with fresh linens. But what other things make your guest really feel at home? Here are some extra touches you may consider:

1. Bed side table with reading lamp, clock, water carafe & glass, box of tissues.
2. A place to set a suitcase -folding luggage rack or bench
3. Chair to sit and have a place for resting clothes at night
4. Empty closet with matching hangers, extra pillows, extra blanket, ironing board and iron, and hamper
5. Full length mirror
6. Empty dresser
7. Waste basket
8. Door hook for purse & jacket

Last, it should be clutter free- this should not be a space for your excess stuff. Should be a relaxing retreat for your guest.

Here are a few ideas for updates that won’t break the bank and can make a big difference.

1. New cabinet hardware- updates tired cabinets

2. New faucet- instant style

3.Add free standing stainless steel island-adds functionality, too!

4. New lighting- gorgeous pendant styles out there now

5. Replace backsplash-glass or subway is a great way to go

6. Add herbs in pots of a cheerful color -adds an organic softness

7. Add a fun colored rug

Open staircases are beautiful and functional, often filled with more light, plus feeling more spacious that traditional stairs with walls on both sides.