Ballantyne Home Staging

This Room Is Too Small

2011-10-01T06:46:00.000-04:00

To make a small room seem larger, we recommend staying with one color when doing home staging. However, to make a small room look larger and cozy, you can apply the old 80/20 business rule by painting 80% of the room’s walls one color and 20% another. You can also try 60%/40%, but when you want just an accent color or pattern in a small space, the 80/20 method works really well – especially if the 80% color is neutral and the 20% color is strong. And if you are quite conservative and unsure about an 80/20 paint scheme, you can apply the rule in the overall color scheme of the room by bringing in accessories to give you the 20% accent color.

Now, this 80/20 rule doesn’t work as well in larger spaces. We are all taught in design class to use the 60/40/10 rule: 60% main color, 40% secondary color, 10% accent color. When using this rule, you need to consider the colors already existing in the space such as the cabinets, countertops, flooring, etc. My favorite color mixes are most often found in nature. Look around you: Mother Nature is a wonderful way to find inspiration for your perfect a color scheme.

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Estate Sale

2011-09-22T17:23:00.001-04:00

By Appointment only. Friday, September 30th and Saturday October 1st. 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.

For appointment, email carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

https://picasaweb.google.com/104185204235219757024/SCCL#

www.ballantynehomestaging.com 980.322.5825 carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Does Your House Need A Fairy Godmother?

2011-09-01T22:06:00.002-04:00

Would the prince have given Cinderella a second look if he had met her tending the hearth in her step-mother's home? Would her worn-out dress or the cinders on her cheeks have appealed to him? Doubtful. What would have happened if Cinderella never made it to the ball that night? The prince would have selected another wife. I'm not even going to wonder about the "happily ever after" part.

Is your house languishing on the market?

Could it be like Cinderella--not even getting a second look? Drab interiors, dated kitchens and baths, rooms that don't evoke "wow's". Is it overlooked in the sea of other houses on the market vying for buyers? Are other homes selling, but yours is not getting any offers?

In the fable, Cinderella's Fairy Godmother appears and, with the simple waves of her magic wand, transforms Cinderella from a cinder-covered lass into a beautiful fair maiden. Let's face it, the Fairy Godmother was astute at marketing--the right dress, hair, make-up, and let's not forget those glass slippers. No detail was left to chance--she even saw to the carriage, horses and footmen. And it worked. Cinderella walked into the ball, the prince was mesmerized by her stunning beauty and imagined . . well, her being his wife and the mother of all the future princes. He fell head over heels in love at that moment.

Isn't this what you want prospective buyers to do when they see your house--fall head over heels in love with it? Do you need a Fairy Godmother to help get your home sold in this market? While we all know that they don't exist, the next best thing is a professional home stager.

Astute at marketing, a professional home stager understands who is most likely to buy your home and "packages" it accordingly. Just like a Fairy Godmother, no detail is left to chance. They select the right wall colors, arrange furniture to showcase the space, add accessories to make rooms more inviting, and consult with you on other changes that will transform your house into a home fit for a prince!

It's your choice--cinders or the prince. If you are interested in "happily ever after", consult with a professional home stager in your area today.

Sell Higher | Sell Faster | Sell Smarter

Ballantyne Home Staging

Charlotte, NC

NOTE: This article is reposted with the permission of Janet Jones, Just Your Style Interiors, LLC, Kihea, Hawaii.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

LRV Means What to Me?

2011-08-21T21:08:00.000-04:00

Light Reflectance Value is a numerical rating assigned by paint manufacturers to each color they make. This number is an assessment of the amount of light and heat that color will reflect on a scale of 0 to 100. Pure black has an LRV of 0, absorbs all light and heat, and can get very hot. On the other hand, pure white has a reflectance value of nearly 100, and can keep a space light and cool. All colors fit in between these two extremes. A color with an LRV of 50 will reflect 50% of the light that falls on it, and one with an LRV of 23 will reflect 23% of the light.

When a new space is being designed, the LRVs can be very important in selecting the proper lighting. For example, in a workplace environment proper planning can be paramount in color design for settings such as individual work surfaces, hallways, and everything in between. From an energy-reducing and sustainability point of view, a wall painted with a higher LRV color can support lighting plans and reduce the standard number of fixtures required to enable employees to efficiently and safely perform their tasks.

But what does knowing a color's LRV mean to a homeowner selecting colors for the interior of their homes? I don't think that it means a whole lot. The value refers strictly to the lightness or darkness of a color. When selecting color pallets for a home, we try to create spaces by invoking a specific feel. For example, a low-contrast, low-saturation scheme is used for relaxing pallets. For warm, engaging and inviting color schemes, we mix warm and cool colors. For more traditional and formal spaces, higher saturations of warm and cool colors can be used. I have never used LRVs as my overriding guide in selecting colors for a house. It's important to note that the number of windows, which way the windows are facing, and the finish of your paint will also impact the actual visual reflectivity, as will the number of lamps, overhead lights, accent lighting – any lighting -- in the room.

However, it is certainly possible to create a low contrast color pallet by selecting colors with LRVs that are – say - no more than 10 points apart. When more impact is needed and you want a room or area to make a statement, have an impact, or simply be better defined, the LRVs can and will vary widely.

LRV can sometimes be misleading, so please use caution. Yellow is a very reflective color and is probably the color most likely for people to make an error selecting. It’s too green, it’s too lemony, limey, or simply so doggone bright that you want to don your sunglasses when entering the room. On more than one occasion, I’ve been asked to correct a yellow space where the homeowner thought they were selecting a neutral, golden creamy color and ended up with a loud yellow. Because here’s the thing: there is a difference between actual visual brightness and the Light Reflectance Value and visual brightness. When choosing colors – especially yellows – it’s so important to consider the actual visual intensity (that is, how bright or dull the color actually looks). This should be a more prominent consideration than the LRV number.

Summing it up.

LRV is to be used as a guide and is not a standard by which to choose colors, but it certainly can be an indicator to help you out. It can be used as a point of reference for predicting how dark or light a color may look and -- therefore, how your room will feel -- once applied.

Sell Higher | Sell Faster | Sell Smarter

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

4511 Bainview Drive Mint Hill

2011-08-18T01:09:00.000-04:00

Check out this completely updated and renovated ranch floor plan in the wooded Mint Hill subdivision of Bainbridge. Conveniently located off 485 and 51, this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath ranch with library/office space is truly move-in ready.

From the beautifully landscaped ½ acre yard with in-ground irrigation to the welcoming front porch and large backyard deck, this is a family-friendly house that is also perfect for entertaining.

MLS #2029430 listed at $215,000. To view this property, contact Mary Abel, Allen Tate Company, at 704.497.7722.

http://www.homefinder.com/NC/Mint_Hill/77295600d_4511_Bainview

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Should I put hardwoods in the kitchen?

2011-08-08T05:35:00.001-04:00

Although a classic flooring choice, hardwood is often considered in areas throughout the house where perhaps other choices are more practical. Remember that form should always follows function, so use caution when considering wood flooring in high moisture areas such as the kitchen and bathroom. That being said, one of the great things about hardwood flooring is the range of choices. Sometimes this can lead to confusion and indecision. To avoid this from happening to you, set up priorities and guidelines to help you select the proper hardwood for your application. Here are some tips:

1. By hardness. If you are installing a hardwood floor in a busy office area or commercial space, then it makes sense to choose a harder variety of hardwood. (And remember to higher a professional installation company.) However, if your traffic is more moderate and residential, then a middle of the road wood that is more easily cut and handled like a red oak makes good most sense. And how do you judge hardness, exactly? Ask you flooring professional to explain the different types of hardwoods and constructions of -- and if you really want to show off just how smart you are -- check out the Janka hardness test.

excess expansion and contraction of maple
wood in kitchen of old farmhouse

2. By stability. Some types of woods tend to expand and contract more than others. For example, a hard maple floor tends to be a little less stable than a red oak, which is a softer wood. This is a question of how stable a species is when exposed to its environment. It’s important to consider these factors which affect expansion and contraction for the living area and humidity levels in the site you’ve chosen.

3. By grain patterns. Some species have prominent grain patterns, like oak and ash. Others, like birch and maple, have less distinct patterns but are beautiful. Some love the intricacies of grain patterns, while others find them too busy and distracting. The choice is really all about your particular taste.

The grain and color of these wide oak planks
make it a good choice if you want to bring nature indoors.

4. By natural color. Every type of hardwood offers its own color range, from light, pale yellow to the darkest darks and everywhere in between. So, when shopping for hardwood flooring with color in mind, it’s best to make your choice based on a range of color, rather than holding to a single color. And remember, real hardwoods can be stained a myriad of color, but go cautiously with the popular dark stains that may cover up all the natural grain.

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Selling a house is like a steeplechase race horse jumping over hurdles.

2011-08-01T16:29:00.001-04:00

Selling a house is like a steeplechase race horse jumping over hurdles.

Some race horses make the jumps look so easy; they run and jump in rhythm under the jockey's guidance. As a home seller, your job is to make home buyer's hurdles easy to jump. Home buyers make up their minds about a house on each step they take or every barrier they cross. You need to make sure your buyer crosses each barrier. Here are eight hurdles for you to win the house race.

Hurdle #1 Listings Advertised with Benefits.

Buyers make up their mind about the online or print listing whether or not to continue reading. That means they approve of the basic features and price. Home shoppers must see something that makes your house stand out in a buyer's market. To entice a buyer to email the listing agent or pick up the phone and call about your house, the buyer must read some benefit that they need or desire. This should be your property's best benefit to the buyer, such as "Enjoy the panoramic views of Charlotte’s skyline from your large deck and entertain in style with custom barbecue" or "Move right in without fixing or painting a thing. Owners will even help with your costs."

Hurdle #2 Curb Appeal that Pulls the Buyer Inside

When shoppers pull up in front of your house, the first glimpse must impress them enough to get out of their vehicle to see what's inside. For condo sellers, the development has to pass approval and your unit should stand out with added appeal like large potted plants near the door in colorful containers. The typical house needs pizzazz near the front door to draw the eye into the house. You must entice the buyer to cross the threshold to see what's inside. The front porch and door should be clutter free and clean, with a good mix of color.
Hurdle #3 First Impressions Entice Buyers

Inside, the typical home buyer makes up their mind within 15 seconds whether or not they're interested in your house. This is why the first sighting inside must pass inspection and peak interest, a critical role of Home Staging.

Hurdle #4 Lasting Impressions Sell Houses

To encourage shoppers to spend more than the usual four minutes previewing a house, enlist the help of an Accredited Staging Professional® and employ their strategies. Buyers select a home based on their emotions. They choose the home they connect with and one they think "feels like home." This just doesn't happen in four minutes. Houses that make buyers envision living in the home, enjoying a better lifestyle, and entertaining friends help buyers make up their minds.

Hurdle #5 Yard Signs that Attract the Eye without Destroying View of Home

The yard sign should look professional and not take away from the appeal. Many over-sized yard signs clutter the landscape. Put the sign to the side a bit and consider a shorter sign for smaller houses. Instead of wasting words with the all the amenities, make the phone number legible from the street and list the best feature not obvious from the curb. QR codes, while popular with Realtors®, haven’t caught on with mainstream buyers yet.

Hurdle #6 Non-Generic Sales Flyer

Perhaps a house shopper will be interested enough to get out of their vehicle and pick up a sales flyer. This means that the flyer needs to be written with sales copy that gives motivation to see the property. A black & white (i.e., boring) generic flyer with a long list of features should be rewritten using Marketing Psychology with strong benefits to the buyer.

Hurdle #7 Make the Purchase Easy

Buyers make offers on houses when they feel comfortable with the paperwork. If you're selling by owner, have a basic contract on hand that doesn't confuse buyers and have a closing agent or escrow officer draw up the formal documents later. If you're selling by agent, your agent must be trained on how to handle negotiations beyond just filling out forms.

Hurdle #8 Keep Sale on Track for the Finish Line

During the sale process, monitor all the closing details. Keep your home staged for the most important date: appraisal day. Invite you buyers to return early in the sale for their walk through so they stay "in love" with your home. Make sure all the appointments are made and kept, such as inspections, and contracts signed on time.

Turn house shoppers into motivated buyers, help your buyers jump the hurdles, and you'll win the house race.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Feng What???

2011-07-12T20:23:00.001-04:00

Feng Shui is a practice used to create spaces that are attractive, comfortable, and harmonious with their environment. Translated, Feng Shui means “wind and water,” and the principles provide practical guidelines for Home Staging® and decorating.

I run into a lot of people who are interested in the practice which is often referred to as “acupuncture for the house” or “the art of placement”. Conversely, I’ve met a few people who don’t believe in it at all. Feng Shui is not an ethereal idea. It is rooted in thousands of years of history, and has evolved through the years to provide practical applications of principals in today’s housing environments.

The philosophy is simple: everything is alive, interconnected and changing. It is about achieving balance and success in all areas of life.

The most commonly used principals of Feng Shui when Staging or decorating a house are the command position and armchair arrangements for furniture placement; the Five Elements: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood - which are represented by colors, shapes & materials that must be balanced; and the positive, free flow of Chi (energy).

Ancient Feng Shui masters studied the land, the slopes of mountain ranges and curves of rivers to identify what they then referred to as dragon veins. They used this technique to identify auspicious sites for emperors’ tombs believing that future generations would prosper. Certain configurations of hills, valleys and rivers were considered fortunate, others were considered unlucky. Over time, these principals were applied to housing sites and eventually to interior spaces.

The command position refers to an area in a room that has a commanding view of the space. Look around and determine where in a room you would be able to see everything going on – people coming in or leaving, all activity – this is your command position. Generally, this will be along a solid wall and/or the tallest wall. The armchair arrangement refers to having your largest piece of furniture in a room such as a sofa or bed in the command position. The piece is then balanced on each side with similarly sized and shaped items that are slightly taller than your primary piece of furniture, such as end tables or night stands with lamps. The final touch is to hang wall art above the furniture. The overall result of this arrangement is an outline similar to the shape of an armchair. By combining the command position and armchair arrangement, which are both based upon the ideas of those ancient Feng Shui masters seeking auspicious burial sites for their emperors, is to provide balance and protection.

The five elements are water, wood, fire, earth, metal. Each element creates or enhances another and each element can destroy another. This is why balancing these elements through the use of shapes, materials and colors is a practical application of Feng Shui in today’s world.

Energy: Chi is considered good energy represented in all things. It flows freely meandering like a river, flows down hill, and can sometimes be directed. Sha Chi is negative or harmful energy caused by blocked, constricted, improperly directed, or too much & too forceful energy. Yin represents the passive principals in nature and is associated with femininity, while Yang represent the active principals in nature and is associated with masculinity. They cannot exist without the other and must be in balance.

There are a variety of tools available for those who want to incorporate Feng Shui into their lives:

Color. Used to create balance and is brought into a room with wall art, accessories, area rugs, and lamps.
Live plants and flowers represent life and abundance. From a practical viewpoint, live plants can also absorb moisture in areas such as the kitchen and bathroom. The best plants to use in these areas are upright growing.
Water features are used for their calming effect, and the moving water attracts Chi. Water features represent wealth and prosperity, and are often used in an entrance area, a home office or outside near the front door.
Mirrors and crystals. Used to attract, slow down and redirect Chi. Be careful to not place a mirror incorrectly as this will have the opposite effect of attracting negative energy.
Mixed materials. By mixing woods, metal, ceramic, and glass you can create both balance and an impressive room!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Practical Home Staging Advice

2011-06-11T10:21:00.000-04:00

Eliminate Clutter. Everyone thinks of this as the first step in preparing a home to sell. Boxing up extra books, toys, clothes, etc. Homeowners also need to whittle down huge photo displays to a few frames. Pack up collections and knickknacks cluttering bookshelves, desktops, dressers and end tables. By the way – anything that has more than 3 pieces is considered a collection. A good way to utilize those photo collages without having to spackle & paint the walls is to use beautiful prints from magazines or calendars of scenic places you would like to visit or have vacationed, maybe just finding beautiful landscapes, flowers, or beaches. Simply place these images over your family photos and hang the frames again. Now, instead of a wall of family photos, you have a cohesive and simple selection of peaceful images. TIP: Similar frames (examples A & B below), identical matting (example A below ), and similiar images (example C below) make picture groupings work best.

Show Me the Light. Pull up the shades and draw back the curtains! Natural light invokes positive emotional responses. During showings, turn on every light in every room. It is also a good idea to leave some of the lights on in the rooms that face the street in the evening hours so that any potential buyer driving by sees a welcoming house inviting them inside.

Make the Background Neutral. You don’t want potential buyers’ initial thought to be, “Well, I’d have to repaint the whole house, it's crazy in there!” so consider repainting dated colors, trendy colors, and bright-hued walls before you start showing. Neutral is NOT boring and does not need to be antique white. There are many beautiful complex neutrals available today. Safe colors include Sherwin William’s Softer Tan and Macadamia, but I always try to select colors that complement the homeowner's furnishings so the colors may include green or gold undertones. Remember that a room is balanced and livened up through "movable"colors -- artwork, textiles, lamps, accessories, and rugs. All of which add visual interest, but the buyer knows you’ll take them with you AND they don’t have to repaint anything.

Create a Lifestyle. If you think your home might appeal to someone who entertains, go ahead set the dining room for a formal dinner party. Some Realtors® do not like this staging technique, but it works well in homes clearly built for entertaining. Creating a spa-like haven in the master bedroom is always recommended, especially if the stunning master bathroom is a selling point. If a buyer is looking for an upgraded lifestyle, it will benefit the home owner to help them imagine one.

Neutralize Odors. If possible, open the windows and let fresh air flow through your home. Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of trash cans and place a box of it in the fridge to absorb unpleasant smells. Like we often say in Staging, “You can’t sell it if you can smell it.” Place pet bowls and litter boxes out of sight or in the garage for showings. Soft scents such as lavender in the master suite, eucalyptus in the bathrooms and fresh citrus scents in the kitchens are nice touches.

Clean, Clean, Clean! If you’re selling your home, you can’t stash clutter in the closets or have a fridge full of messy takeout containers. Potential buyers will be inspecting every square foot—and that means you should, too. Store clutter in neatly stacked boxes in the garage or basement if you have one; if not, go ahead and invest in a small storage unit. As Barb Schwarz, the Creator of Home Staging has taught us...the house should be Q-tip clean!

Rethink The Furniture. If taking out a few pieces of furniture would make a room feel more spacious, then don’t be afraid to do it – especially if your furniture is over-sized and overstuffed. Put pieces that are rarely used (like extra dining room chairs) in storage, then rearrange what’s left to maximize each room’s space. One thing to hold on to: items that double as storage, like an ottoman with a lid, where you can stow clutter at the last minute. And remember that it is perfectly okay to have empty corners.

Don’t Forget the Outside. “All of the property should be Staged” is the mantra of the pros. This includes the outside. The house address/house numbers should be big, shiny and easy to read. This is so easy to do with a can of exterior spray paints from any hardware store or superstore. A $3.00 can of Krylon or similar product provides a fresh new look in 10 minutes! Landscaping should be pristine—and give the impression it’s easy to maintain, so opt for simple over fancy pruning designs. Finally, the garage and shed should be in reasonable order, too.

Music. To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of this tactic. We all know that not everyone likes the same music and I was recently in a home for sale where I had to ask the homeowner to turn down the music so we could actually hear one another talk. This tactic makes me feel as though I'm in a department store.

Sell Higher | Sell Faster | Sell Smarter

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

CBS News Today --- Staging: Home sellers' secret weapon

2011-05-22T22:16:00.000-04:00

This Sunday's video on Home Staging has people talking, and I can see why. First off, I've never known any Stager who was paid $30,000 to Stage a house. Not to say homeowners don't some times need to make improvements to their home that can add up -- but the Stager does not get paid for this work, the contractors do. More about this below.

Although I don't agree with everything that was said, I do agree with this: Home Staging is a home seller's not-so-secret-weapon for getting their home sold faster and for a higher price.

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7366894n

I wonder if it is geographical differences because my friends in the business in other markets, including Chicago, can certainly charge more for their service than we can here in Charlotte. For this reason, I wasn't too thrilled with the over generalized statement that "home staging costs about 3% of the listing price." The cost to Stage can vary wildly. My guess is that when this statement was made, they were including all the expenses of getting a home ready for the market, including painting, flooring, repairs and upgrades.

Although I've seen statistics stating that Home Staging costs can range from .5% to 3% of listing price, I honestly don't know any Home Stager who bids their jobs based upon a percentage of the listing price. It's more about where the house is located, whether it is a vacant home staging or an occupied home staging, the houses's condition, the style of the house, and and how many rooms are to be staged that factor into the cost of real estate Staging.

What I LOVE about this broadcast segment is the Chicago real estate agent, Ian Schwartz, who said, "You have 2 choices, either stage it or not. And if the answer's "not", I'm not working with you". He states that he cannot waste time on ugly houses and doesn't want to have to apologize for any of his listings. So, "Bravo" Ian Schwartz! Ian is one of the top real estate agents in the Chicago area, and now we know why.

So thank you, CBS Sunday Morning for informing home sellers of the importance and benefits of having your home professionally staged. Yes, hiring a professional home stager and hiring the right real estate agent are definitely a home seller's not-so-secret weapons when selling a home!

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

A Perfect Home on (Apparently) a Not-So-Perfect Lot

2011-05-01T17:41:00.001-04:00

UPDATE: This house has gone under contract Day 22 after Staging. Previously on market for 8 months!

I recently began working with a young couple who has been trying to sell their former home in Waxhaw for quite some time. When we first meet at the house, they tell me that the driveway was a huge objection. It is a sloped driveway – but it is sloping upward, not down toward the house thereby inviting rushing rainwater into your crawlspace or to pool outside your front door! (I've seen this before.) Yet, since some buyers want a flat lot, I shot new photographs of the exterior so any Realtor® or potential buyer could clearly see that the home sits up on a small hill. And since some folks actually like their homes sitting above street level, this new photo may help us out more than we think.

They also shared feedback from prior showings about Cuthbertson Road, a 2-lane country road that sees more traffic than it ever had before thanks to the enormous housing boom Union County experienced the past 10 years. But the road runs in behind their neighbors’ backyards, not theirs. Perhaps road noise was the objection? In any event, we cannot move either the road or the house.

So, we go inside the home and I see beautiful hardwoods throughout the entire first floor and staircase. An upgraded cooktop, upgraded faucets, granite countertops, a large kitchen island, stainless steel appliances, double ovens, a vegetable sink, a wine cooler, upgraded light fixtures in every room and wrought iron spindles! With 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, I was falling in love with this house and started going through names of people in my mind who would love to live here.

We walk through the screened-in porch the owners had added onto the house, then out onto a paver patio with a fire pit, and into a professionally landscaped and irrigated back yard. Perfect for children to play in as the adults grill out on the pergola-covered deck attached to the gourmet kitchen. I envision my son and daughter-in-law entertaining while our not-yet-born grandchildren frolic about. Yes, I think we can put the swing set right over there. My mind is whirling.

Okay, get it together, Carol. Your son lives in Ohio, for crying-out-loud!

This house is located in the development of Lawson, with a state-of-the-art swim complex, tennis courts, fitness area, a community lodge, covered picnic areas and a nature center. Kids can attend the highly ranked Union County Schools. The brand new Cuthbertson Middle and Cuthbertson High School are across the street from the development.

If you or anyone you know is looking for a fabulous home large enough for a growing family to put down roots, prefers the security of a cul-de-sac home, likes the idea that the house actually sits on the high spot of the lot, and wants their kids to attend good schools – please have them visit 1105 Periwinkle Drive in Waxhaw! Listed at $349,000 and all serious offers will be considered.
www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

M/M Homeowner: I'm here to make you $

2011-04-15T21:30:00.000-04:00

Home staging is the act of preparing a private residence for sale in the real estate marketplace. The goal of staging is to make a home appealing to the highest number of potential buyers, thereby selling a property more swiftly and for more money. ...Wikipedia.org

Well, yes. But it is always about the money! Money for the homeowner and Realtor®.

A Staged® home sells as much as 80% faster and 7% higher on average than it's non-staged counterpart.
The faster a home sells, the faster the homeowner gets out from under the mortgage, taxes, insurance, HOA fees, utilities, and maintenance costs. This can save them tens of thousands of dollars.
The cost of Staging a home is almost always (if not always) less money than the first price reduction.
Realtor's simply do not get paid unless and until a home sale closes. They invest time and energy marketing a property, but it must actually sell before they earn any money. Staging their listings brings higher offers and faster sales, which enables them to work on securing their next listing.

RISMedia published a report in 2010 illustrating the signifcant impact Staging has had on the real estate market. Of the 500 Realtors® from across the country surveyed at the National Association of Realtors Expo:

96% believed buyers react better to Staged homes than vacant ones
94% believed vacant homes take longer to sell than Staged homes
94% believed vacant homes sell for less money than Staged homes
The majority of Realtors surveyed agreed that vacant homes take twice as long to sell and sell for at least 15% less than a Staged home.

Occupied homes also do very well when Staged. Within the past 10 days we have had one Staged occupied home go under contract on Day 15 at 95% of list price, and another went under contract on Day 5 near list price!

Home Staging is really about making money for the homeowner. With typical ROIs of 250% to more than 300%, it simply doesn't make financial sense to try to sell a home without the assistance of a Professional Home Stager.

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Oops...You Shouldn’t Have Done That

2011-03-27T17:20:00.000-04:00

Has this ever happened to you?

You get to the appointment and walk into a home with an unusual mix of styles, colors and upgrades. The proud homeowners are beaming with pride and it is up to you to (as gently as possible) burst their bubble?

It’s a terrible position to be in, and I wish we could band together to stop homeowners from bad, equity-draining home repairs and/or upgrades before they happen.

Problem #1: The do-it-yourselfer. This is perfectly okay if a) they actually pulled a permit if it were required and b) they are capable of doing the work properly themselves. Doing work that requires a permit WITHOUT a permit can cause quite a bit of pain when it’s time to sell. Although painting is a good way to update the house, please seek professional advice on colors BEFORE you paint.

Problem #2: Kitchen & bathroom upgrades. They aren’t always the best place to spend $$. Before a homeowner spends thousands of dollars on upgraded appliances, granite countertops and the latest fad sinks and tiles, let’s consider the ROI for each improvement. What style is their house? At what price will it likely sell? Does their competition offer these? Will these “upgrades” appeal to the likely demographic buyer? Are these upgrades necessary to sell their house at the price the market will bear?

Problem #3: The Right Stuff. Did the homeowner update their house too cost-effectively? (Yes, there is such a thing.) Nothing says poor craftsmanship louder than badly cut crown moldings, paint roller marks on the ceilings, gaps between the vent covers and hardwoods, and missing quarter rounds. Oh, and in the $450,000 home, nothing says cheap more like a vinyl floor that looks like wood!

Since not all home repairs and updates are created equal, let’s help home owners and sellers make wise choices.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Short Sales and Staging

2011-03-24T20:41:00.000-04:00

This afternoon I met with a Realtor and we were discussing the plethora of distressed properties in the Charlotte market. And we both agreed that even sellers of short sale homes typically receive higher offers and sell faster if they stage those short sales before putting them on the market.

Yet we all know the problem: most, if not all, short sale sellers are upside-down on the mortgage and dont' want to spend money to get their house sold. I understand this completely because all these homeowners want is to get out of the house and out from under the mortgage.

This, paradoxically, is why they need the help of a Stager.

We’re all guilty of it. When we live in our houses for a while, we tend to overlook – or truly do not see -- the things that need attention. Yet with so much distressed inventory on the market, even short sellers have only seconds to make a good first impression. Even short sale properties should be q-tip clean and memorable.

Hiring a professional home stager for a consultation will help a seller understand:

1. What should stay, what needs to go, an dwhat can be repurposed
2. Space planning – how to make the most of each room
3. Proper furniture arrangements
4. Proper accessorizing

Never underestimate the impact of proper color combinations, which can almost always be done with accessories the homeowner already owns, or from discount stores in the area like Home Goods, TJ Maxx, Kirkland’s and Ross. Don’t forget about second-hand stores and garage sales, too! Of course, the most cost-effective way to accessorize is to borrow items from family or friends.

To improve the curb appeal, a short seller can use a little sweat equity to make a big difference. Paint the mailbox & porch lights, straighten the flagpole, clean the gas lamp, replace burned out light bulbs, weed the flower beds, trim the shrubs, clean out gutters and – for the cost of a quart of paint – paint the front door with a high gloss finish.

Sell Higher | Sell Faster | Sell Smarter

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Local family hopes to adopt special needs child overseas

2011-03-09T18:22:00.000-05:00

This is a copy of 2/26/2011 article on News14 Carolina:

MONROE - A family who has dealt with the challenges of having a child with Down Syndrome has decided to take in another child with the chromosomal disorder. The Maddex Family is raising money to adopt a child from an eastern European orphanage. Laurie Maddex first learned about 3-year-old Danil on the Internet, from an international adoption ministry. With financial donations, Reece's Rainbow helps others like the Maddex family bring children with Down Syndrome to the United States.

“Something just kind of clicked in my heart that said ordinary people could do this,” said Laurie Maddex.
Her husband, Bryan, was against the idea to start but later had a change of heart when a co-worker shared personal experience of the conditions of orphanages overseas and the unimaginable fate of special needs children living there. “Just thinking about Chase being in an institution and not having anyone to love him or hug him or hold him or give him every opportunity in life is really what pulled on me,” said Bryan Maddex. The Maddex family has already begun the adoption process. They have started an online auction to raise the $25,000 needed to bring Danil home, selling everything from jewelry to homemade honey.

Danil is just five days older than Chase. Brian and Laurie Maddex plan to meet him for the first time when they visit Danil's orphanage over the summer. So far, the Maddex family has raised about $9,000 The online auction runs through the end of the month but you can make a donation anytime by logging onto Reece's Rainbow's website.

***********

Bryan is a friend of mine and we've been discussing ways to raise funds. I've volunteered to donate $1 for every new like on my company Facebook page. All you need to do is tell all your friends to LIKE Ballantyne Home Staging between now and April 15th! That's it...you can unlike us later :-) but we hope you don't.

Thank you for your help in bringing Danil home.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Nanney & Bumgardner Join Ballantyne Home Staging

2011-03-01T05:40:00.002-05:00

We are excited to announce that Mary Pat Nanney and Elizabeth Bumgardner have joined the Ballantyne Home Staging team in Charlotte!

Mary Pat Nanney

Nanney has a B.S. in Interior Design and has worked as an interior designer, visual merchandiser and advertising photo stylist. Her background enables her to take a critical look at a setting, ensure its features are enhanced and presented at its best to evoke a positive emotional response from the consumer.

Elizabeth Bumgardner

Bumgardner earned her B.A. in Architecture from Clemson University and worked for a building design firm in New York City for more than three years. Her background includes developing floor plans, structural plans, kitchen and bath layouts, and assisting with the selection of
materials and interior finishes.

Ballantyne Home Staging is a licensed and insured company offering staging, redecorating and move-in assistance for residential and commercial properties in the greater Charlotte area. For more information on the company, visit www.ballantynehomestaging.com.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

The Cottages, Pineville NC

2011-02-25T15:12:00.000-05:00

www.ballantynehomestaging.com 980.322.5825 carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Home Staging Costs

2011-02-21T10:10:00.002-05:00

The Cost of home staging is a hot topic in the real estate community. Some Realtors® don’t blink and understand the value of the service, other Realtors® think Staging® fees are too high. The value of home staging is determined by how quickly the house sells and the satisfaction the buyer perceives for the service (as is the case in just about any transaction in life). Staged houses sell more quickly (50%-80% less time on market) and for more money (average 7 %) than un-staged homes.

Let me start with this: there is no set price for home staging services. The size of the home, the location of the home, the condition of the home, the staging professional chosen, the scope of the project, the condition of the housing market in that area/community and other factors will all contribute to the price tag.

It can be a complicated equation!

And the ROI for a home professionally staged is huge: below are some of our real life examples:

A Staging investment of $5,000 yields $14,000 higher list price!
A $650 Staging investment had a house sold in 32 days at list!
A $1,200 Staging investment had a house sold FOR CASH in ONE day!
A $24,000 Staging investment resulted in a $70,000 higher list price -- and this house actually had competing bids and went under contract $91,000 higher than where it was going to originally list prior to the Staging overhaul.

Many of the variables that must be taken into consideration to calculate the cost of home staging include:

• The Consultation fee charged by the Stager.

• The Design fee charged by the Stager if hired to do the staging.

• The cost of Staging assistants.

• The cost of items that are either rented or purchased to Stage the property.

• The cost of transporting, delivering heavy furniture. This is multiplied by 2 because the items have to be removed and returned to storage when the house sells.

• The cost of labor for moving the furniture. This is multiplied by 2 because the furniture must be removed when the house sells.

• The cost of labor for projects to be handled by contractors.

• Monthly rentals for furnishings and accessories until the house is sold.

And there are always standard costs of running a business involved that must be factored into any quote.

Some of these costs can be deferred if the homeowner is willing and able to invest some sweat equity, which is why I prefer to start with a Staging Consultation on all occupied properties.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Going Green

2011-01-27T05:21:00.002-05:00

My final installation of a Color Blog that started last week after waking up to grey skies and "Brown-Eyed Girl" playing on the radio. Color certainly does have an impact on us. Surround yourself in colors that you like -- there's a reason why you like them.

Dark Green is associated with wealth and money. But green actually symbolizes nature and represents tranquility and good luck. The color is often used for it calming effects.

Orange you glad….
This fabulous, energetic color combines red and yellow, resulting in a dramatic effect. Orange represents enthusiasm, excitement and warmth. It is the color of a beautiful sunset and is quite the attention-getter.

I don’t know why they call it Mellow Yellow

Yellow is another attention-getting color; it's warm and cheery. Because it is stimulating, we often find it in restaurants (so we eat more). Although considered cheerful, there is a school of thought that it can cause over-stimulation and agitation -- which is why the color is not usually recommended for an infant’s room. And it's worth noting that yellow reflects a good amount of light, making it difficult on the eyes in certain settings; especially office settings where the glare on computer screens is increased.

Purple Rain

This is an interesting color that combines stable blue and energetic red. Most often associated with power, royalty, wealth, and extravagance, it also represents dignity and wisdom. (Years ago I was told that it was associated with death in some European countries but have no idea if that is true or not.)

Live life in full color. Happy Home Staging Charlotte!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

The Rainbow Connection

2011-01-24T05:06:00.005-05:00

I love how colors affect us and create mood. This post is a continuation on the subject.

Red, Red Wine. Yes, I must admit that I do love my Cabs and an occasional Merlot or Pinot Noir. Red is an intense color and the one most associated with love. It's also one of the most appetizing colors, perhaps because we do associate it with strong emotions and feelings of excitement. Red commands attention, but this intensity may also create feelings of anger as well, so I always say a little goes a long way.

The Pink Panthers...

Well, after last year’s season, the Carolina Panthers are likely more blue! But when we talk about the color Pink – red’s lighter side – we associate it with innocence, love and romance. The favorite of little girls worldwide, the color is thought to have a calming effect. But this is not true of deep and neon pinks, which can actually create feelings of agitation.

Whiter Shade of Pale

White is considered cold and sterile. Although it can make rooms appears larger, they also appear soulless and unwelcoming. White can be quite dramatic when paired with black (I love it in flocked wallpaper), or used in lacquered furnishings in contemporary urban settings.

Blue Moon

First wines, now beers...must be 5:00 somewhere. Blue is the color of men! Seriously, most men say it is their favorite color. Blue can be calming and peaceful, or it can make you feel sad. Have you ever noticed that blue rarely shows up in natural foods? There are notable exceptions like blueberries, but the color is considered to be one of the least appetizing colors for this reason. (Check out Jenny Craig's logo ... blue; and Atkins diet website...blue.)

Once again, I find myself signing off to keep this short and sweet. More posts on colors soon.

Happy Home Staging, Charlotte!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

You're My Brown Eyed Girl

2011-01-19T18:05:00.004-05:00

I woke up to grey skies and drizzle this morning, but this fun little summer ditty was playing on the radio and it made me not only long for summer, but also inspired me to write a series of blogs about colors and how they emotionally impact us.

The grey sky made me think about how this color has seen a rise in popularity recently. A lighter shade of black, grey is a cool and unadventurous color that doesn’t seem to whip up much emotion. Nearly all shades of grey are good neutral background colors. To make it more masculine, mix the grey with yellow and/or red; for more feminine areas mix it up with pinks, blues or greens.

Brown is the color of earthen items and represents stability. The color invokes a warm feeling of comfort and security. Although it is a natural, comfortable color, it can also be very sophisticated.

Black Widows…
Black as a color is often associated with something bad, menacing, or evil. When we use the word black in sentence or as an adjective, it is often associated with something negative or fearful. Although associated with death, mourning and sadness, black can actually be playful when mixed with white, green and pink. Black can represent power and can be used in a sophisticated or formal setting to make a bold statement.

For brevity's sake, I'll break these thoughts up .... More blogs to come on this subject.

Happy Home Staging, Charlotte!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

2010-12-24T20:40:00.001-05:00

Be at war with your voices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every New Year find you a better man.– Benjamin Franklin

Reflecting on 2010

2010-12-16T06:31:00.002-05:00

As year-end comes around, it’s a time to look back and assess the year’s activities. The idea is to evaluate and make adjustments to improve in the new year.

I found that I spent 2010 busy being busy. Constantly on the go: going to meetings, going to events; going to presentations – you get the picture. I spent more than 60 % of my time going to meetings and participating in marketing events, and the balance of my time actually Staging; making telephone calls, working on non-profit organizations' activities; trade shows/expos and financial planning/meetings.

A restless night came to an end at 5:09 a.m. by the realization that it may be time for me to reassess not only where I’m spending my time, but also what profitability actually means.

Of course, there is the monetary profitability we all automatically defer to when the word profit is used. What about personal profitability? What is it that makes us feel good and contented? Maybe all the social interaction with others actually triggers more creativity in us. And could it be that others inspire us to do better and be better in many phases of our lives? And maybe, I realized, the enjoyment I get spending time in the company of others -- whether doing a presentation or listening to one -- is invaluable. This is my reward, i.e., profit, for spending time with others.

And, what about the bigger picture? You know, the one beyond our P&L and desires to grow our business.

Maybe it’s just because it’s Christmastime, but as I was laying in the darkness this morning tossing around all of these questions, I could not help but think of Jimmy Stewart’s character in “It’s A Wonderful Life.” Well, actually it was this movie combined with a recent Mastering Performance luncheon I attended. In the luncheon, our instructor shared with us the reality that 75% of our world as we know it is filled with stuff that we don’t know – and we simply don’t know what we don’t know. Are we making a positive impact somehow, someway, on someone or some thing that we don’t even realize?

And all through this process I hear a voice that says, “you’re doing fine.” My company is less than two years old and intellectually I know that as the business grows, the time paradigm will shift accordingly.

But this morning I resolved to stop worrying so much about making more money and to stop focusing solely on monetary profit. I realized that God is in control of my life and I’m only a small part of His big plan. I must trust and believe that these things that keep me up at night will all work out. Perhaps it is the Christmas season -- and all that it is about -- that is now speaking softly to me in a very big voice.

Merry Christmas.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Partnership with the Power of 2 Brokers

2010-12-13T10:06:00.000-05:00

Ballantyne Home Staging is excited to announce a partnership with Keller Williams Ballantyne Realtors® Jim McGuire & Eileen Simms "Power of 2 Brokers"! Ballantyne Home Staging offers a proven track record and will Stage® your home to make an excellent first impression and invite offers!

Eileen Simms & Jim McGuire PowerOf2Brokers
http://www.powerof2brokers.com/
Contact Eileen & Jim:
Phone: 704-497-2224
Cell: 704-608-7863
Fax: 704-717-5772
3430 Toringdon Way, Suite 101
Charlotte, NC 28277

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

We want to see THAT house. The importance of online pictures.

2010-12-02T14:44:00.000-05:00

How many home buyers start their home search on the Internet?

I’ve seen statistics ranging from 82% to more than 90%. So just for fun, I conducted my own non-scientific survey of those looking at houses and asked them:

1. “What are you looking for while viewing all the different homes for sale online photos?

2. “What makes you stop and spend more time looking at a particular house online?”

Here are the most common/similar replies:

Empty rooms don’t show me anything (except what color the walls are painted.)
If the house looked like a mess, we skipped it.
If the pictures were too dark, I skipped right over them.
If the pictures were hazy or blurred, I skipped past them.
It’s hard for me to see how large the rooms are when they’re empty.
I can’t tell if our furniture will fit or not.
If the furniture is worn & out of date, it makes me think the house is worn and out of date, too.
Houses that look nice and clean go to the top of our list.
Houses that look nice on the outside and inside catch our attention because they seem to be well maintained.
Nicely decorated houses are attractive, plus we can see how big the rooms are more so than when looking at empty rooms.

None of the answers surprise me, but does make me continue to wonder why so many home sellers do not seek the assistance of a professional Home Stager prior to listing their houses. Home Staging makes such a huge impact and should be done prior to any photographs being taken.

Professionally Staged Home + Professional Photography + Properly Priced Listing = SOLD.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Feng Shui 101

2010-11-18T16:37:00.001-05:00

Feng Shui is the system for arranging your surroundings in harmony and balance with the natural world. Feng Shui means “wind and water,” in Chinese and give us a practical and easy to follow set of guidelines for decorating.

There are three Power Principles of Feng Shui: Chi – energy; The Five Elements – Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood; and the Baqua – the chart used to map influential areas of a house, room, or even the lot a house will be or is built on.
There are a variety of tools available for those who would like to incorporate Feng Shui into their lives:

Color – which adds emotion. The Five Elements are represented by colors, shapes & materials

Art – used to enhance Chi and create balance in spaces

Living plants & flowers – used to connect us with nature. Live plants can also absorb moisture in areas such as the kitchen and bathroom. The best plants to use in these two rooms are upright growing.

Water features – used for calming effect and to attract Chi

Wind Chimes – used to attract Chi

Mirrors and crystals – used to attract, or slow down and redirect Chi. Be careful to no place a mirror incorrectly as this will have the opposite effect of attracting negative energy to an inappropriate place.

Feng Shui is a great set of guiding principles for home stagers and interior decorators – and at Ballantyne Home Staging we use elements of Feng Shui with each client

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Space Planning Tips for Large Rooms

2010-11-11T20:20:00.001-05:00

The great challenges with these spaces are simply defining areas and creating some sense of intimacy in the place. For these reasons, it is extremely important to create separate areas in these rooms where furniture is not spread too far apart, somewhat like a room within a room. The goal is to create social settings where people can interact. Multiple seating areas in large spaces are much more practical than having to scream across the bowling alley to have a conversation, so here are big space tips to help you out.

1. Place area rugs to anchor a space. These can be angled to add visual interest.

2. Use larger scale furniture – oversized, overstuffed, and higher backs

3. Use larger scale artwork and accessories

4. Mix textures in the flooring, furnishings, accessories, and draperies to warm up the room.

5. Use warmer colors on the walls, as deeper hues tend to bring the walls in a bit.

6. Don’t forget the ceilings! In large rooms with soaring ceilings, consider painting the ceiling one shade darker than the walls to visually lower it a bit. This will also help to create a more intimate space.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Space Planning tips for Small Rooms

2010-11-04T19:33:00.002-04:00

I recently conducted a survey of REALTORSÒ to find out what they were most interested in learning from Home StagersÒ. The #1 answer, with 83.3% of all responses, was Space Planning. With such a large number of REALTORSÒ identifying space planning as a topic of interest, we'll do a series to cover the topic, starting with this particular blog on small spaces.

The first thing to do is consider what it takes to open up the space. This means that you can eliminate any piece of furniture or accessory that does not have a purpose, which might mean someone has to get rid of a sentimental sea shell from Spring Break '89, but it must be done. In small spaces, it is best to remove and avoid heavy draperies, going instead for simple window treatments such as roman shades or sheers hung high near the ceiling and touch the floor, creating a light, flowing feel.

In small homes or apartments, a smooth flow of energy from room to room can be accomplished simply by using the same color in various shades throughout. It's also wise to keep the trim work painted the same throughout for continuity. When selecting furnishings for small spaces, remember that a monochromatic approach makes a room look larger. Splashes of color can be brought in with rugs, wall art and accessories.

Of course, the use of mirrors to reflect light is a nice visual enhancement in small spaces. But a poorly placed mirror will do you no good at all. In small rooms, good places to hang a mirror are above a table lamp to reflect light, or across from a window to bring the outside in. This only works if you have clean windows and a nice view. So, if you're overlooking the stockyard and/or haven't cleaned the windows in 2 or more years, do not hang a mirror across from the window.

Multi-Functional Furniture: In small spaces, it's important to minimize furniture scale & also consider multi-functional pieces. For example, if planning a small 1-bedroom apartment, consider a sleeper sofa no more than 72” wide or even a sleeper loveseat, with a small storage ottoman and end tables that have drawers for additional storage. Bedroom nightstands should always have drawers, and small closets should be augmented with over-the-door shoe hangers, a small two- or three-drawer dresser inside the closet, and several pegs on the side walls inside the closet for belts, ties, hand bags, etc.

Glass top tables -- whether cocktail table, end table, night stand, or dinette -- keep a space feeling open and airy. Solid surface table tops block both space and precious light in small places. For this same reason, in small kitchens and galley kitchens, the use of glass fronts in the cabinets is a good way to open up the space. This can easily be done by removing the cabinet doors and inside panels, then replacing the panels with glass.

And if you're trying to sell a small house that has dark wood molding and cabinets, it's a good idea to have these painted to brighten up the space.

Look Up: Did you know that recessed lighting draws the eyes upward? By taking the eyes upward, these little lights can create a feeling of the ceilings being higher than they actually are in older homes.

Look Down: If possible, use only one style of flooring in small houses because different flooring in a small house makes the space feel disjointed. Remember the goal is to have seamless flow from room to room. Sometimes it's not practical, of course, because you don't want carpeting in the kitchen and bathroom; however, it is best to leave the flooring surfaces in small houses to only two if possible.

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

6001 Coatbridge Lane

2010-10-29T10:21:00.001-04:00

www.ballantynehomestaging.com 980.322.5825 carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Using Autumn Colors when Selling a Home

2010-09-25T22:34:00.001-04:00

Color affects us in a visceral way, and Autumn is the perfect time of year to bring in delicious oranges, lovely yellows and passionate reds into a decorating pallet.
Autumn colors are particularly soothing to home buyers who associate the Fall with family and gatherings, cooler temperatures and the excitement of the upcoming holidays.
Deep red is a color of romance and of strength. Deep red is perfect as an accent color in a table cloth, pillow or towel. Pair the deep red with a dark orange for a festive autumn look.
Dark orange is a warm color, representing the sun and fire and appetite. Orange has been shown to cause your body to increase its oxygen supply to the brain and stimulate mental activity. Orange is also a very contemporary and youthful color, so be sure to “mature” it by using its darker shades and pairing with red.

Yellow is cheerful and youthful. Yellow makes people happy and when paired with Autumn’s reds and oranges, it creates a lovely combination that is clean and seasonal.

Autumn colors do not need to saturate a space, but rather accent it. When it comes to the rich hues of fall, go subtle, but stylish, fun & festive!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Fall 2010 Color Trends; Triple Threat; to Feng Shui or Not?

2010-09-20T22:29:00.001-04:00

Fall is a beautiful time of year, with the leaves changing color, cool breezes and scurrying squirrels burying nuts for the season. I’m looking forward to crisp air, some apple cider and possibly some pumpkin carving, too!
The signature colors of this year’s fall season are gold, brown, burgundy, cream and green, all colors that reflect the current trend of bringing nature indoors. It seems as though people want to simplify their lives these days, and this can be seen in the color palette being used, especially in bedroom where calm colors are so effective. These color trends can and should also be applied when Staging a house for sale, not only through paint, but also with area rugs, pillows, linens, and accessories.
To Feng Shui or Not?
Incorporating some Feng Shui principals into Home Staging is an effective way to create interesting spaces by using color, shape, and texture along with proper furniture placement. Light, clean, calming, balanced, and spacious are the words that come to mind. It doesn’t really matter if you personally believe in Feng Shui or not, what matters is that your listing gets positive feedback and an offer. By combining Feng Shui practices with proven Staging techniques, a house can be totally transformed and made to stand out in the crowded marketplace.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

What Home Buyers Really Want

2010-09-12T21:20:00.000-04:00

Have you ever wondered what home buyers really want when they are looking at homes? Certainly there are factors that are as unique as the buyers -- some folks love a "project" and others don't want to lift a finger once the boxes are unpacked, some like colonials, others cape cods -- but buyers do have universal wants and needs when looking at a potential new home, and by tapping into these factors, you increase your potential for selling a home quickly!

Buyers like a clean house. Even for those people who aren't "neat-freaks" buyers like to walk into a home that has no strong odors, is tidy and have been thoroughly cleaned. A lot of home staging is about "clean"- clean lines, clean appearance, lawn maintained, etc. Buyers are very easily distracted, and home staging gives the buyer an idea of what the home could look like, without the distraction of clutter and mess.

Buyers like to feel like they are "home." This is a tricky concept for many sellers, but I have watched this phenomenon many times. When a buyer likes a house, they will linger. They will pull out a kitchen chair and sit. They will explore around the house in all the nooks and crannies. This can not happen if there is too many "personal" items in the house. Someone else's pets, large pictures of family, a lot of toiletries on the bathroom sink... It just cannot feel right to a buyer if they perceive themselves invading someone else's space. Just as home staging is about cleaning, staging is about de-personalizing a space, allowing it to be neutral to anyone coming in.

As we stage homes we take these two starting and important steps: cleaning and de-personalizing before we bring anything in. But after we have a "blank slate" we can start working our magic. Fresh paint, clean carpet, and nice furnishings can create a warm and inviting space--one that the buyers want to sit and enjoy - not just during their visit--but for years to come.

Carol Schulenberg
Ballantyne Home Staging
Charlotte, North Carolina

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

2010-08-23T00:43:00.001-04:00

Color... A red dining area makes you feel.?

First Impressions and the Front Door.

2010-08-16T12:07:00.000-04:00

Curb Appeal is critical in selling a house. No matter how fabulous a house is on the inside, it simply doesn’t matter if the buyer doesn’t get out of the car to walk inside.

Make sure the shrubs are trimmed down below window level and shaped. If evergreens are overgrown, often times it is best to remove them all together and replace with size appropriate shrubs that do not grow beyond what the space can allow. And don’t forget color & movement near the front door. Of course, flowers are a great way to add color and decorative flags, water fountains or even birdbaths in the flowerbed near the front door can create movement, making buyers feel welcome. If not prohibited by an HOA, a nice splash of color on the front door is a great way to increase curb appeal.

Buyers will spend a good minute or two at the front door as their Realtor works on opening the lockbox and unlocking the deadbolt and then the door locks. Make sure the entrance to the house is in good order. Repair cracked concrete or broken steps, if the handrail is loose, get it fixed before listing. And please clean all cobwebs and buildup around the front door area. The front door should be freshly painted; porch light fixtures should be clean and freshly painted, the doorbell clean and in working order. And, of course, a new welcome mat is a nice touch!

Exterior Home Staging makes a difference: Watch this video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNz_nyDzKe8

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Home Inspection: For Home Sellers

2010-08-02T05:00:00.000-04:00

HOME INSPECTION

Are you selling your home? Have you had a home inspection yet? Now, I know what you are thinking… home inspections are just for the buyers to do right? NO! Home inspections are important to do before a house goes on the market to be able to determine if there are any issues that need to be addressed ahead of time!

As a Home Stager, I often walk into homes that before they can be staged, really need to have basic repairs done! If the faucet in the bathroom leaks onto the floor, or the electricity doesn’t work in the guest room, OR if the front step has a dangerous crack, then Staging will be a waste of money and effort until that is addressed. Home buyers will see right past the Staging and obsess over the repairs they will need to do if they were to by the home—and usually they will pass up a house that doesn’t pass inspection, (and if they don’t, their mortgage company may).

Home inspections also give you the home seller indication of any of the objections that a buyer may have. If the roof is sound, but in need of repair within a couple years, you will know this, and even be able to accommodate a concession on price should this be brought up.

The repairs are likely going to have to be made before closing anyway, so by taking care of them in advance, a homeowner removes the objections and/or avoids making costly concessions. Having a home inspection ahead of time also tells potential buyers that you care about the condition of the home and that you are upfront and honest. It shows that you are willing to disclose any potential problem areas and that you are motivated to sell the home.

Home inspections are knowledge that you need before you put your home on the market. They are quick, relatively inexpensive and one more tool that you have in your seller’s toolbox.

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Your garage... is part of your home!

2010-07-26T20:11:00.005-04:00

Do people not realize that the garage is really a part of the house? When you drive your car into the garage, (that is IF you can drive your car into the garage), how do you feel? Are you irritated by the piles of junk and the disarray? Are you frustrated because there is never enough room?

Well, your buyers will feel the same way when they look in your garage! It is important when you are selling your house to make it feel as open and big as possible while still making sure it feels like a home. Now is the time to clear out that garage, neatly put the tools on the wall and even put a fresh coat of paint on the walls. Your garage can be a significant selling point to your home if it is presented as an asset instead of an eye-sore!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Selling a home? Where not to put the cat litter box...

2010-07-19T17:34:00.001-04:00

When selling a home, pets can be an issue. We love our pets, but will a potential owner love the stains on the carpet or the odor from the litter box as they are looking at your home? NO!

People seem to have a difficult time knowing where or where not to put the cat litter box. Here are all the places I have seen the litter box and I highly recommend NOT putting them there.

1) The litter box was in the master bathroom. The bathroom was so small that the person using the toilet would have to straddle the box.

2) The litter box was in the laundry room, on top of the washing machine (so it is eye and/or nose level).

3) The litter box was in the master closet, where there is carpet. The kitty litter was scattered all over the carpet.

4) The litter box was in the corner of the pantry (the thought of this, still grosses me out).

5) A client had put a kitty door in one of their cabinet doors in the family room. When I looked inside the cabinet, I found the litter box.

6) I have seen a litter box in the kitchen. I had one client who positioned the box within 4 feet of the kitchen table, (ick!)

7) I have seen the litter box in a child’s bedroom.

8) I have seen the litter box in the main floor ½ bathroom (not a great impression for visitors).

So what is the best place to keep the litter box when showing a house? Well, if it is possible, it is always best to clear out the pets, their paraphernalia and any signs that they ever lived in your home! It may be difficult, but not everyone is a pet-lover, and Staging is all about making a home appeal to the broadest demographic.

…and if you need to keep a litter box and little fluffy at the house, remember to keep the box meticulously clean and discretely tucked away in a basement or garage. When it comes to pets and Staging… “out of sight, out of mind!”

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

2010-07-18T17:43:00.001-04:00

Check out my new youtube channel:
http://ping.fm/CUGjj

2010-06-29T00:34:00.001-04:00

Kitchen Color Trends 2010 http://ping.fm/LOA5A

The Importance of Home Staging

2010-06-24T04:30:00.001-04:00

In today's real estate market, a home owner needs to pull out all the stops in order to actually have their house seen, and eventually sold. The more visually appealing a house looks, the more tempting it will be for a buyer to sign those papers. I'm sure in your search for the best home, you have come across a house which looks cluttered, doesn't have much natural light coming through those dreary curtains, and sometimes it might have a certain smell to it that just turns you off. Home Staging® can be thought of as an important marketing tool that sellers use to merchandise their property.

Buying or selling a house could quite possibly be the biggest investment a person could ever make. The property should be presented in a way to attract a buyer. No matter what the selling price is, it is important for the house to be immaculate and flawless in appearance. The objective of Staging® a house is to have a potential buyer walk in, and immediately envision your house as their home, and become emotionally connected to it. A good way to do this is to imagine yourself as the buyer, and modify different things that you don't find appealing first. You have to look at your own home through a potential buyer's eyes, and treat your home as a product you want to sell. Through making the house look visually alluring, it will help the guest feel like the owner as soon as they walk in the front door.

Home Staging® is very effective because it highlights the strengths and reduces weaknesses of the house. Presenting a well maintained and cared for home will give the potential buyers a great first impression, and also helps them realize if their checklist of what they want in a home works with your home. Staging® a home to create instant and enticing curb appeal can help a buyer sell their home fast, and may also increase the value. Just to give you an idea of how important Home Staging® is, a recent survey done by Staged Homes, an accredited Home Staging® training company, found that 94% of correctly staged homes were sold within a month of being on the market. This number alone should give you the motivation and drive to take the time to stage your home and sell immediately.

While Staging® a home, pay mind to lighting, color, furniture position, clutter, and unnecessary objects. By maximizing the natural lighting, de-cluttering, paring down, positioning your furniture in a more pleasing way, and capitalizing on great color, a seller will be able to market, and sell their house quicker and more efficiently. Overall, Home Staging® is an effective way for a buyer to sell their home, and increase the value of it.

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Staging: Every Bit Counts

2010-06-11T23:05:00.007-04:00

A friend of mine was recently looking for a housemate. He owned the home, and had spent a lot of money to upgrade many parts of the home. He had put in beautiful wood floors, new appliances in the kitchen, landscaped a bit in his small backyard, and painted almost every room an appropriate color. The only room he left unturned was the room he decided to rent. Being a considerate fellow, he thought that the NEXT occupant should be able to furnish and paint it in their fashion. But he had no luck finding a tenant! Nobody bit!

Eventually, he realized the problem. Most of us lack the imagination to really understand what a room can achieve. We need some help. After the advice of a professional stager, a coat of paint and moving some nice furniture into the room, he found he had no problem renting it out! He actually had escalating multiple offers.
This type of Staging® is on a small-scale of what you can do with your home. You can’t just expect your house to sell without giving the possible buyers something to understand. Furniture will give you an idea about the space, paint will give you a reflective mood, flowers or plants can bring life to room. If people have trouble understanding how a room can accommodate a queen-size bed, the put a queen-size bed into the room!

Staging® is key in any real estate transaction. It might cost you a few bucks extra, but you won’t regret it! Staging® will help you move the space quicker and make you happier in the long run!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

2010-06-02T19:40:00.001-04:00

Hilarious blog on ActiveRain. Staging 101: A Day in the Life.
http://ping.fm/dJkvA

Pressure Washing: Make a Good First Impression

2010-06-02T13:36:00.002-04:00

Mother Nature is not always a kind woman.
Plus, our grubby little hands and some dirty and nasty pollens and pollutants make anything that has to stay outside too long a target for some serious build-up. When we go to sell our homes, sometimes this becomes all too obvious. Nothing quite turns off potential buyers as much as stains and grime!

From concrete to asphalt and everything in between, your driveway and patio surfaces tend to take the brunt of wear and tear out of all outdoor surfaces. By adding detergent or degreaser to water and projecting with a high-strength pressure washer – it is easy to remove oil, rust, and most weathered stains!

(Pressure washing also eliminates the hard-work of cleaning your motor- boat, RV or sports utility vehicle. Spend a day spinning your wheels in the mud on your ATV? No problem with some solid pressure washing!)

If you use inadequate pressure with a pressure-washer, you won’t get the paint/dirt/mold off – but if you use too much pressure – you might take off some important bits of your beautiful home. This can be a delicate process and is often done best by professionals!

One of the first things I will recommend to many homeowners is to take a critical look at the outsides of their homes. Mold and stains on a home's siding will give the impression that a house has not been taken care of... you might never get a prospective buyer to come in if they get a bad first impression!

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Feng Shui in Real Estate

2010-05-25T17:27:00.001-04:00

Using the principles of Feng Shui can be very effective when preparing a home to sell. Yet modern American homes were not built with Feng Shui in mind and often have issue that need to be overcome to achieve the proper Chi.

For proper Chi (good energy), a home should look out over an open area (river, ocean, lake) and have natural and/or manmade landscapes. If no natural open area is present, creating one will do as well. Here are some suggestions:

• Install a bright light (porch light or gas light) at top of driveway near house

• Create Movement near house by:

Hanging wind chime near house
Placing a fountain near front door
Hanging a flag near front door

Are you trying to sell your home in the Ballantyne / Charlotte NC area? Call Carol from Ballantyne Home Staging to learn how Staging and using the principles of Feng Shui can assist you in selling faster and higher!

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

What is Feng Shui?

2010-05-18T14:33:00.012-04:00

Feng Shui means “Wind, Water,” and is referred to as “The Art of Placement.” What that really means is that it is the Art of creating spaces that are comfortable, attractive, and harmonious with their environments.

Feng Shui is rooted In Chinese History, and has 2,000-5,000 years or more of followers. Feng Shui is known as an organized philosophy, with its earliest recorded writings appearing during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).

Wind & Water are key factors in assessing quality of movement and energy in a space

The philosophy behind Feng Shui is that the Earth is a living thing, and everything is alive. Each and everything is Interconnected and changing. Traditional Feng Shui combines land forms, magnetic influences, 8 house, birth dates & flying stars

Ancient Feng Shui masters studied slopes of mountain ranges & curves of rivers to identify “dragon veins” of land. They used the dragon veins to locate auspicious sites for emperors’ tombs believing that future generations would prosper. Certain configurations of hills, valleys & rivers considered fortunate, others unlucky, and over time these same principals were applied to house sites.

Think of the way mountains appear. Sometimes you can make out a pattern that appears similar to an armchair. This “Mountain Armchair” is an ideal location to locate a home (or tomb) because it is protected and secure. With the mountain in back, and the smaller hills on each side with gentle slopes, Feng Shui dictates that a home should be situated in an open front that overlooks a river, lake, or ocean.

Today Feng Shui solutions most often sought on existing structures after we’ve moved into existing house, so the traditional site selection & orientation is nearly impossible. Things like power lines, appliances, dense housing, cars parked on streets, and steel structures all can cause issue for Feng Shui, and likely will create different compass readings throughout a house.

Modern practitioners use Feng Shui in different levels and ways, but the goal is same: To assist in achieving success in all areas of life.

Would you like to learn more about how Feng Shui can help you sell your home, please contact Carol at Ballantyne Home Staging at 980.322.5825.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Staging Tip: Headboards

2010-05-13T13:56:00.000-04:00

Headboards on a bed can set a theme, or create a beautiful frame. there are so many ways to create a headboard where there is none. The simplest way is to tape together 20"x30" foamboard panels in the desired width (queen bed 60", king bed 80", so you will need either 3 or 4 panels). Wrap these panels with fabric and carefully staple to the back of the boards. Using thin nails, attach these panels to the wall above the bed -- remember to keep the bottom of the panels 1" below the top mattress. A Queen size headboard can be made for less than $30!

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Staging Quick Tip: Problem Areas

2010-05-11T11:29:00.000-04:00

Learn More About Home Staging
Need a quick fix to solve a problem area? Apply wallpaper an old bi-fold door and you immediately have a beautiful new screen to use in a dead corner, the end of a hallway, or even as a headboard.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Outdated fixtures & cabinet knobs?

2010-05-09T16:48:00.000-04:00

Replacement them or not? Definitely not for the knobs. For about $10-$12 the knobs can be removed, primed (Krylon), painted (Krylon popular finishes include brushed silver or oil rubbed bronze), and one application of Krylon clear coat varnish and you have a brand new look in the kitchen. (I've actually done this at a home in Ballantyne and saved the owner $135!)

This can also be done with both interior and exterior light fixtures. A very cost effective way to update a look, assuming the light fixtures are not outdated in style vs. finish.

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Feng shui for real estate professionals

2010-05-07T08:31:00.001-04:00

Check out this SlideShare Presentation:

Feng shui for real estate professionals

View more presentations from Carol Schulenberg.

Feng Shui in Home Staging

2010-05-05T20:13:00.001-04:00

So many people have heard of Feng Shui (pronounced fung schway) but just aren't quite sure what it's all about. I was invited by Karyn Lindsey of the Mingle School of Real Estate to discuss the basics of Feng Shui with about 100 Charlotte area Realtors this week and gladly accepted.

Often referred to as the "art of placement", contemporary Feng Shui - aka western Feng Shui - is based on the philosophies of traditional Feng Shui and makes improvements or enhancements to problematic areas using manmade items such as windchimes, mirrors, and crystals.

As a Professional Home Stager I use Feng Shui all the time, especially the 5 Elements. These elements - water, wood, fire, earth and metal, are all represented by materials, shapes and colors and should be in balance in every space.

Balance is absolutely key in Feng Shui, and is the principal theory of Yin & Yang. These two opposites cannot exist without one another and must always be in harmony.

When considering what Feng Shui improvements to make to any house, room, or even a house lot, the Ba Gua chart identifying the 8 areas of influence is consulted. But with today's home styles, shapes & sizes, often times you find yourself making the very best Feng Shui decisions by reverting back to the use of the 5 Elements to balance rooms and areas.

For more information on the use of Feng Shui in Home Staging or decorating, contact Carol Schulenberg at carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

www.ballantynehomestaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Sell Your Home Fast

2010-04-28T07:35:00.032-04:00

As an Accredited Staging Professional, I can tell you that 95% of ASP® Staged properties sell, on average, in 37 days or less. That is impressive given the average days on market. The average days on market in the Charlotte MSA is now 141.

What is even more impressive, and at the risk of bragging a bit, is that 83% of Ballantyne Home Staging's Staged properties this year have gone under contract in less than 9 days on average! And that's not all -- 60% of our Staged® homes have sold at or above list price!

Last week, one of our Staged® properties went under contract in 2 days. The owner is ecstatic because it is a divorce situation and he really needed to sell this house and move forward. How beneficial was his staging? If we use the current average of 141 days on market vs. actually having sold with a closed date prior to next month's mortgage due, it saved him $11,000 in mortgage payments. Deducting what he paid for the Staging®, he earned a 467% Return on his Staging Investment! But that's not all. He also earned an additional $5,000 on his sell price. Once Staged®, the house was listed for more than he and his Realtor® had previously discussed, and the sell price was $5,000 more than he thought he was going to get.

Man, I wish I could find me a financial instrument that could give me nearly a 500% Return on Investment(ROI).

The next time you ask yourself, "Is Home Staging Worth It?", consider these statistics. An investment in Home Staging® is always less expensive than your first price reduction!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Of Course We Can Work With Your Items

2010-04-20T12:37:00.004-04:00

I have had Realtors® call and ask if I can help a client with getting their house ready to sell. "Of course," I reply. The Realtor® continues by explaining that their client actually lives in the house and wants to use their own items. "No problem," I reply. And some times the Realtor® sounds relieved.

Evidently there is a perception that Stagers prefer to work with empty homes, or the Stager will want to bring in their own inventory. Although some Stagers prefer to work with empty houses, many of our jobs are actually owner-occupied and we always do our best to use what they have in their house before bringing in inventory items. It is necessary some times to do so, but not always.

A client of mine recently told me they had been quoted several thousand dollars by a Stager to bring in inventory furnishings -- even though the client had a house full of their own. They didn't have this kind of money and really needed to sell their house. We were able to use what they had, making modifications by repurposing items, using slipcovers, decorative pillows, and by making our own headboards. The house sold the first week on market and for more than list price because of competitive bids.

This experience made me wonder: Is this why many agents and homeowners haven't or won't hire a Stager to prepare their listings or houses for sale?

It is absolutely bad business to waste a client's money. After all, as an Accredited Staging Professional, my goal is to get the property sold as quickly as possible and for the best price possible. This goal is to be shared with the Realtor® and homeowner. Although it may be more lucrative for the Stager to rent out their furnishings, it is the client's needs that are to prevail, and that should always start with a budget. I can't imagine asking a homeowner to store their own items if they are in decent shape and scale (size) for the house.

Ballantyne Home Staging offers Home Staging® consultations for homeowners who are willing to do the work but are unsure where to start. Additionally, we do both vacant and occupied Home Stagings® and offer redecorating services in the Charlotte area.

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Home Staging and Color

2010-04-05T09:43:00.003-04:00

Home Staging® is an intricate and thoughtful process. One of the most important aspects of it is color. Color can make or break any home, and is never more critical then when your home is for sale. While you might love your eggplant color scheme, will buyers? Is your color scheme a few years out of date? Was it trendy in the 90’s but a little out-of-style now? There is a lot to think about when you are looking at what colors your walls are…and that is why working with a qualified professional Stager® will make all the difference!

Before picking up a brush, work with a professional home Stager® to determine your color palette. Many suppliers out there have massive selections, so you should be able to find something that appeals to everyone’s design aesthetic.

While picking out colors, remember that colors and emotions go hand in hand. Try to think of the emotional reactions the colors may evoke in the viewer. For instance, reds are aggressive colors, stir strong emotions, and are irritating if overused. You want colors that will attract buyers, not repel them. Colors that make them feel at home, comfortable, and happy. While some rooms might call for some colors to up the emotional ante – basically, you want to keep your potential buyers in a good state of mind.

If you have a home on the smaller side, color can help you create a sense of great space. The prevailing theory is that lighter colors will make rooms seem bigger, while darker colors can sometimes make it feel like the walls are closing in. Dark colors are also known as “subtractive” colors because they pull light out of the room. This is what causes the feeling of the room closing in on you and the perception that the room is actually smaller than it is. But a dark accent color on the short wall of a long room can also give the appearance of that wall receding.

For small spaces, the best color scheme is monochromatic – including the furnishings as well as the paint. You can use two shades of color from the same family for a tone on tone look that is calming. Plus, if these colors match the upholstery color, the room will feel even larger.

Flat, dark color such as browns, deep reds and dark grays are great for the increasingly popular media room as these colors absorb light. The flat finish will not reflect any of the blue-white light projected by the equipment while folks are watching their favorite movie or show.

A final factor to consider is whether you are going with a “Pro” or going to do it yourself? While you save money doing it yourself, sometimes these projects can be done quicker and cleaner with a painting professional enlisted in the process. If you choose to work with a professional to help you stage the place – it might be easier and cost effective to hire a painting professional too. Too many people spend extra money trying to “clean-up” a bad paint job, or lose money by having to reduce the price of their homes to get it sold! Remember, it’s great to do as much as you can yourself – but sometimes, you really need to call in the Pros!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Facebook | Brian Hines's Photos - SOLD & CLOSED in under a month!

2010-03-30T14:44:00.000-04:00

Facebook Brian Hines's Photos - SOLD & CLOSED in under a month!

www.ballantynehomstaging.com 980.322.5825 carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Niche Home Staging: A Craftsman Style House

2010-03-28T09:37:00.003-04:00

Welcome back to our serious of tips on how to Stage niche homes! Today we are going to cover one of the easiest, but it shouldn’t be overlooked…The Craftsman Style House!

These are simple homes to Stage. So the trick is not to overdo it when Staging – preserve the appeal! Keep it simple, and buyers will flock to the home!

Remember, this style of home is built with windows to let in sunshine. You want to augment the natural light and avoid bright unnatural lights. Absolutely do not even think about cheap fluorescent lights. No! NO! NO! And don’t forget to get those windows cleaned…inside AND out.

Before you dive into a massive repainting job - do some homework on the year your house was built. Knowing the history of your home really does help you prepare the house for sale. History will help you decide on a relevant color scheme. Without looking at your specific property, I can suggest going with beiges, greens, browns and other non-brassy earth tones. Avoid bold colors and busy patterns.

When looking at metal, think copper. Copper was amazingly popular during the craftsman era…the catch is that these days, it is very hard to find and can be costly. Whatever copper you have in the house now, keep it! And take some adventurous trips to farmer’s markets, flea markets, and yard sales for some inexpensive little touches. For example, a copper pot on the stove is nice touch to show off your home (but give it a good polish!) Metal fixtures w/colored glass are also perfect for this style home.

For accent pieces, remember to still keep it simple--nothing to overshadow your rooms or the house’s character. To compliment the rooms, use area rugs to define any open spaces. Craftsman style homes have an abundance of character, and they don’t need much to showcase their beauty. With just a little work, and some attention to cleanliness, you will have your home off the market and in the hands of another happy owner!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Niche Home Staging: Coastal Property

2010-03-21T09:29:00.000-04:00

Selling any coastal home can be tricky. There are plenty of gorgeous properties to compete with, and you need to make your property stand out amongst a very full and often dazzling crowd. Here are some things you and your professional Home Stager® can keep in mind during your sale.

People looking at coastal property tend to react positively to nautical style interiors. So keep it crisp and cool. Colors should stay on the more traditional scope, use shades of red, white, blue. You may want to consider offsetting these shades with some patterns – stripes or checkered prints work well in chair coverings, pillows and throws. Of course I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the obvious nautical themes such as sailboats, anchors, knots, etc…It might sound trite, but it works well when not over done and will motivate buyers who really want that place on the coast to submit an offer!

If at all possible, Staging a coastal property should incorporate natural wood and crisp, clean shades of white or off-white furniture, oversized and luxurious. To compliment the natural woods, set out some woven-look accessories. But think Titanic State room, and not tramp steamer… upscale and clean.

www.ballantynehomstaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Niche Home Staging: The Mountain Property

2010-03-14T09:12:00.002-04:00

Maybe it is your ski lodge or your hunting cabin. Maybe it is your weekend get-away in the woods—the perfect retreat! …Regardless of the case – if you are thinking about Staging your mountain property for sale, here is some advice for you!

Remember any house anywhere can be rustic without being—well…too “rustic.” Not everybody adores moose heads, antler chandeliers, twig chairs and stuffed raccoons. Too many hunting trophies give even some avid sportsmen pause. The trick with Staging® is to keep the flavor and style of your home without over-indulging in anything others might find to grim.

Another thing to remember: please don’t try to make distressed hardwood floors perfect! A mountain cabin should have some character. Hardwood floors are beloved for their unique look, and should be honored.
The general rule is to keep to 3-4 colors for your whole household pallet. Many colors (earth tones, blues, warm reds) work in a mountain house but, when Staging, keep the color variations simple and consistent from room to room.

It’s okay to mix and match your wood furnishings, too. As mentioned above about hardwood floors, wood has such unique character – it should be emphasized and spotlighted. Contrasting wood types with furniture is a perfect statement for a home in the woods.

This final recommendation might be the MOST important. Don’t obsess too much about the inside of the home. Remember why you bought that house. You are here for the landscape, the vistas, and the scenery – to that end, accent the views of your place! The inside needs to be neat and clean but draw the potential buyer’s eyes to your windows. Pull back the curtains; make sure those windows are squeaky clean inside and outside, open up your deck and outdoor space. Show off the views your home has to offer – in the end, that is what will make your buyers fall in love with this special place!

http://www.ballantynehomestaging.com/ | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Niche Home Staging: Beach Cottage

2010-03-07T22:11:00.001-05:00

Staging your beach cottage to appeal to the eyes of a specific person – specifically a BUYER – usually requires a mix and match of specific colors and woods.

Color Schemes are important in any house, but incredibly important in any type of beach vacation home. When Staging such a place, it is wise to use soothing greens, earth tones, deep yellows, and of course sky blues… think sand, sea, and sky.

Many beach houses emphasize their geographic location in their décor. I remember one friend who had his beach house done with a charming lighthouse motif, down to a handcrafted headboard with lighthouses on each end. However, an easier route to take in Staging a beach cottage is to use coral, sand, starfish and seashells to make easy, inexpensive accessories and accents. It’s very easy to use smaller seashells to make custom mirrors. For little cost, you can create unique displays in glass containers and accent the edges of your curtains. Show off beautiful coral on shelves and bookcases, or simply have the kids comb the beach for some majestic shells. Mixing woven woods in the beach cottage will give your house a more tropical feel. I love the look of rattan and bamboo.

With the help of a professional Stager®, you can gain the eye of any finicky buyer and increase the likelihood of speedy and profitable sale.

www.ballantynehomstaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Home Staging by Home Style: Niche Home Staging!

2010-03-01T21:31:00.006-05:00

The Staging of any home is always different. There is no cut-and-paste in home Staging. Every style of home calls for a unique Staging experience. To help you better understand the process, I am going to start a series of NICHE HOME STAGING blog posts! This is where you will learn how a professional Home Stager can tailor your house for the right buyer.

The things to consider in selecting colors and furnishings for a home are simple:

Geographic influence
House Style

Neighborhood Style

Geographic is fairly obvious. You shouldn’t be surprised to find out that the homes in Arizona have different characteristics then the homes in Massachusetts. But this is also true for homes in the same city when you consider demographic shifts and historical influences. Geography plays a big role in what your house looks like, and that calls for different approaches on the inside as well.

House style isn’t a shocker either. Do you have a ranch or a cape cod? Bi-level or duplex? Historic or ultra-modern? The style of the home lends itself to the décor…Always.

Finally, let’s not forget your neighbors – or more exactly, your neighborhood. Blending in or standing out – what is your house’s role? The Staging needs to match this…

So over the next few weeks – tune in to find out how a professional Home Stager might Stage your home – whether a beach house, mountain retreat, urban duplex, or historic showplace.

www.ballantynehomstaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Why you MUST Stage Your Vacant House or Condo Before Listing

2010-02-18T21:20:00.001-05:00

To a lot of people, Staging may seem frivolous. Many people think it is an unnecessary expense right before a potentially expensive move. But, Staging usually means a quicker sale for your home. And it might also mean that you avoid a price reduction – which could knock your list price down by $10k or more. But there are some other powerful reasons to hire a Home Stager, like….

1) No knick-knacks, no furniture, no style. Your buyers cannot emotionally connect with an empty property. Home Staging® can give an empty property enough of a soul to create a desire in buyers to make an offer.

2) Not all of us are gifted with the best sense of space. Rooms can look bigger, or SMALLER, without furniture. Some of your potential buyers won’t be able to properly imagine what the property will look like once it is furnished and decorated. Staging® sets the scene and gives the homebuyer an idea of whether that bedroom is capable of handling a queen or a king bed.

3) Realtors will tell you one little secret. At showings and open houses, buyers truly cannot see the full potential of an empty property. Vacant property generally does not sell for as high a price as an occupied and/or staged one. You can expect to recoup the cost of your Staging – and then some – in the offer price you receive on your home.

www.ballantynehomstaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

OUTSIDE! Don’t Forget Exterior Home Staging

2010-02-04T12:57:00.005-05:00

BEFORE

AFTER

While we all desperately try to not “Judge a book by its cover,” often times we are victims of habit. The outside of your home is going to get scrutinized, no matter what you think. It’s the first thing your potential buyers will see – so remember that and make sure the shell shines! The inside of a house can look like a grand museum, but if the outside looks to rough around the edges – your potential buyer may not even get out of the car! (It’s true, my Realtor friends have told many stories of this happening.) Too often, shoddy exteriors make buyers keep on driving – right down the road to someone else’s property.

Some things to think about when Staging your front yard:

Power washing – Give the old homestead a nice bath! Everyone likes a clean house, inside and OUT!

Paint – A fresh coat of paint can add several thousand dollars to your asking price? Is that incentive enough?

Landscaping & Yard Care – Trim the trees and shape the hedges, keep your lawn mowed and presentable, plant seasonal flowers to spruce up your yard. An inviting entrance to your home starts with flora, so make sure your lawn really pops. And if you need the help of a professional landscaper, call them!

How about your backyard?
If you’re selling a 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath home in a coveted school district, it’s safe to assume your likely buyer will be a family. Consider a covered sand box or a swing set (in good shape, of course) and a sitting area from where you can watch the children. Adding child friendly items to a home is a simple way of letting a potential buyer know that this place is perfect for their family.

www.ballantynehomstaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Home Staging on Steroids

2010-02-03T12:33:00.002-05:00

Trying to sell a luxury home or perhaps just a neglected home? The bigger the home and the more neglected it has been, the more depressing it can seem if it is empty of furniture and in need of basic updates and human touches. If you are trying to sell a million dollar-plus property, or a property that has not been maintained well, you not only need Home Staging® – you need some Home Staging® on steroids!

These type of Staging® projects will nearly always require you to employ a professional to help with the project. It isn’t something I recommend doing on your own. Why? Funny you should ask, here are the top reasons that Home Staging® “on steroids” requires a master’s touch…

Project Management
You will need someone who can pull it all together. Some Home Staging® projects for large properties can be incredibly taxing undertakings. Managing the project – especially a big project – is a time intensive and labor-intensive task. The best Home Stagers have compiled their own teams of quality vendors to make such projects go smoothly for the homeowner including painters, electricians, countertop specialists, flooring experts, handymen, house cleaners and more.

Painting
What needs to be done to show off your incredible home? Maybe removing the 1984 wallpaper is a good start. How about the exterior, does it need some work? A professional Home Stager® will be able to suggest appropriate color schemes for your home.

Countertops
Don’t forget the countertops! Never forget the countertops! High-end, luxury homebuyers expect to see some fabulous surfaces in these kitchens.

Appliances
New appliances can increase your resale value IMMENSELY. Making sure they are the right appliances is a task left up to the experts. A good Home Staging® professional can help you navigate through the mire and find what will appeal to your potential buyers. That being said, your budget should always be top of mind with your Stager and will play a determining role in any appliance selections.

Flooring
From vinyl to carpeting to hardwoods, flooring issues can be a major squabbling point when dealing with potential buyers. Don’t let this happen to you. Call a professional carpet and rug cleaning company. Update the flooring or refinish the hardwoods if necessary. Again, your Stager should be able to help you find these service providers.

Fixtures
The devil is indeed in the details, and fixtures are the kind of details people notice. If your home is in a high-end area of town and/or listed for a high dollar value, you simply cannot show a home full of cheap fixtures. Take a strong critical eye – take a buyer’s eye -- to what you have in your home, and make sure that they are up to par. A professional Home Stager® can make sure the fixtures sing – and give your house the perfect finish.

Basic Repairs
Everything from making sure the faucet doesn’t drip to ensuring your door stops do their jobs; a good home Stager® will make sure all the little repairs are done around the house. When we live in a home every day, we sometimes forget the little dings, scrapes and scratches that have popped up from wear-n-tear. Your home Stager® can make sure everything is running smoothly and looking great.

Furniture Arrangement & Accessories
This is what we expect a Home Stager® to take care of when we put our home up for sale. Furniture can show off a space, giving a sense of the home, and really sell the spirit of any place. Accessories shouldn’t be forgotten either. The right artwork, rugs and accent pieces will help show your home’s character and turn a massive empty house into something that every buyer can imagine as theirs.

www.ballantynehomstaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Tight budget? Staging is still possible

2010-02-03T09:48:00.003-05:00

Even when operating on a small budget, you can still Stage® your home. You and your professional Stager have several options available to make a thrifty transformation happen to your property. Here are a few creative ideas that can help keep costs down.

Your junk is another person’s treasure – so sell it! Use your move as an opportunity to get rid of the clutter in your life. Take stock of your possessions and have a yard/garage sale. You will get rid of some unwanted merchandise, and make a little income to help with your Staging!

Perhaps some of your current pieces can work in your Staging process. Consider repurposing some old furniture or existing pieces you have in your home to work with your Staging set-up. For instance, take that old buffet to the extra bedroom and use it as a dresser. It might even be possible to borrow some pieces from a friend or relative. Consider cleaning old upholstery or using slipcovers to hide worn and damaged pieces. You’d wash your car before you tried selling it, wouldn’t you?

BEFORE

AFTER

Inexpensive accessories can add the right accent to your home without blowing your budget. Trust us, tablecloths are a girl’s best friend! A tablecloth over that beat up old table you thought was such a good buy on an overly optimistic day of garage-sale-ing during your college years gives the piece an up-to-date look for next to no expense. Tablecloths can also be used to recover Aunt Nancy’s faded brown corduroy chair. A few stick pins in the right place and voila – you have yourself a beautiful chair! Simple sheers on your windows will complete a room’s look; no need to go into debt purchasing expensive draperies. In your bathroom, it can be as simple as hanging a fresh, new, mildew-free shower curtain.

www.ballantynehomstaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

How Much Does it Cost to Stage My Home?

2010-01-31T12:48:00.004-05:00

What does it cost? What is it going to cost me? How much?
These are the first three questions people ask when they have to consider any possible work action. It’s no different with home Staging. Once you have realized it is the smartest thing to do in your quest to sell your home – you might start to wonder what the cost will be…Here are a few considerations that you should maul over when you start to think of the budget.

1. Is your home occupied or vacant? This is a major factor…and will affect the cost either way. Empty homes are easier to stage, but nearly always require more heavy lifting, more furniture, more artwork and more accessories than occupied homes.

2. How large is the house? Bigger isn’t always better, but it is safe to assume that a larger home will require a proportionally larger investment in Staging. The more spaces to stage, the more time and effort required to properly complete the job, the more the Staging fee will be.

3. How much work is there to be done? This question goes hand-in-hand with the above issues. Home Staging can be incredibly labor intensive, and labor (and sweat) do deserve to be acknowledged and compensated.

4. How much furniture is needed? Again, this is a labor-intensive issue. Using items from the Stager’s inventory will result in a monthly fee that is dependent upon how much you need to use as well as the size, style and quality of pieces required.

Don’t let this post put you into a panic. The cost for home Staging always pays for itself – in a better sale price and a quicker sale. A good home Stager will absolutely work with you on your budget, and find a way to make your home shine. You won’t regret your decision. I’m just giving you these details as something to think about…something to remember when you are making the best decision of your home sale!

www.ballantynehomstaging.com | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

Some Tips When Choosing A Home Stager

2010-01-30T12:14:00.003-05:00

Carol Schulenberg ASP, IAHSP
Ballantyne Home Staging
980.322.5825
carol@ballantynehomestaging.com

It is going to come as no shock to you if I tell you that today, it’s a buyer’s market. Not only is it one of the best market for buyers in years, they KNOW it is…Today’s home buyers are savvy, and the current economic condition has given them a lot of inventory.

If you are a seller, it is time to reach deep into your bag of tricks to find some magic to sweeten the sale of your property. Real estate experts all agree that the presentation of a home is just as important as choosing the right Realtor. It’s just not about repainting the kitchen any more; it’s much deeper than that…It is all about Home Staging®.

Whether the home needs just some small changes or perhaps a serious overhaul, Home Staging® can provide serious pack to your punch. In the hands of a smart Stager, you should be able to move your property much more quickly than your competition. But, all home Stagers are not created equal. So picking the right home Stager for you is critical.

While there are plenty of training programs, courses, and professional certifications offered to people interested in working in the Home Staging® field - there is no industry regulation. That means that whomever you choose could be a talented novice, expensive and awful, or gifted professional. With so much riding on the line, you have got to make SURE you pick the latter. Here are our tips to help select the right Home Stager:

1) The Price Is Right
Don’t think of the cost of Staging® as an expense, think of it as an investment. The cost of the Home Stager’s work should be reflected in your eventual sale price. Like anything in life, you generally get what you pay for- so choosing an experienced and efficient Stager®--who has successfully Staged® homes in your area and price range, will mean a higher cost then a novice. Remember that Home Staging® is a negligible expense compared to a price reduction.

2) Pro Versus Amateur
While it might be nice to go with your neighbor’s daughter or the unproven rookie, you might want to consider selecting a talented professional with a solid track record. Does the Home Stager® you picked have extensive practical experience? How many homes have they Staged®? You ideally want someone who has worked in your region with area Realtors, is capable of handling the entire Staging process, carries their own inventory and is insured. An experienced Home Stager® will have client testimonials and will gladly provide references.

3) Check out Their Stuff
Check out their website. If they don’t have a web presence, consider this a red flag. Does their website specifically detail the services they offer? Does the website provide you with customer testimonials? Do they have images and photographs of their own work? If their online presence is slim, make sure to check their physical portfolio and confirm that the work being shown is actually theirs.

4) Sign on the Dotted Line
Make sure that this process doesn’t end up a calamity; your Stager® should have a business license, carry business insurance, and provide you with a solid contract. If they do not, you may be held liable for any damage or injury that may occur during the Staging process. Your contract should detail all the work that will be done, both inside and outside of the house, and include a time frame.

5) Connection, Connection, Connection…
Take the time to meet with your possible candidate, and gauge the interaction. Often times this first step is the Staging Consultation. You want to make sure you hire someone you feel is honest and open with you and, naturally, you want someone you feel you can trust. We don’t have to be your future best friend, but the Stager should be a true professional, who will tactfully address any concerns a buyer will have with your home.

Carol Schulenberg ASP, IAHSP | Ballantyne Home Staging | 980.322.5825 | carol@ballantynehomestaging.com