Abby's Blog

It's Never Too Late to Say 'Thank You'

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:06:46 -0500

About a month ago I received the most wonderful voicemail message from a prospective home staging client in Alpharetta, for whom I did a free estimate for about 6 months prior. It was for an occupied home and she was looking to start preparing to list the house this fall.

Let me back up and say that about a month after doing this free estimate for her, and for about 3 other prospects (it was springtime...it was peak season...gotta take advantage of the traffic!), I realized that I could no longer afford to do what I'm doing for free. Free Estimates are a tough thing to perform as a home stager without giving away the farm. I'm a nice person and I want to help my clients but found that I was giving them waaaayyyy too much information; they no longer needed to hire me to come back. Essentially, I was giving them a verbal consultation for FREE. Bad move, I know, so I did decide to reevaluate my home staging service options and provide this service for a reasonable fee. I no longer do FREE estimates unless it's for a vacant property.

Anyway, her message stated that she was very pleased with the outcome of all of my suggestions and felt that she owed me something to compensate for my time and suggestions. This was completely unsolicited but came at a time that I couldn't have been more thankful or appreciative for. Funny how things work like that. God works in mysterious ways...really.

I responded to her that I was grateful for her comments and that the outcome was good. I told her that I was not comfortable charging her however I did mention that what I did for her is essentially what I'm now offering for a fee as a Verbal Consultation. I told her whatever she felt the service was worth to her, would be greatly appreciated.

She responded with "GREAT! I'm glad you are now charging for it because you are worth every penny! The check is in the mail!"

This 'client' baffled me because she did not respond to my initial bid, nor did she respond to my subsequent follow-ups to see how things were going, prior to this. I assumed she was blowing me off and after the third attempt to contact her, I gave up. It was nice to know, almost 6 months later, that things were going well, that she had listened to me and that she was satisfied with the outcome. If nothing else, the expression of gratitude from her was enough to plaster a smile across my face, especially during a time where there are few things to smile about.

Thanks to Connie T, who inspired this post.

It's true...even though it's cloudy there are silver linings.

Don't forget to say 'Thank You' and express your gratitude for someones service. We all could use a lift once and awhile. That lift could be all they need to keep them going!

The Perfect Marriage

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:29:04 -0500

As a home stager, I get the benefit of working with many different people in all different kinds of circumstances.

Sometimes they are the empty nesters looking to downsize or move closer to the family who's spread their wings and left the nest.

Sometimes they are the people that move sideways...just looking for a new house in another neighborhood.

And there are times I've had people in the process of graduating to the bigger home.

The common denominator in all of these scenarios is making sure the house is properly prepared to sell. All of my consulations include the basics:

Clean, clean, clean
make any necessary repairs or updates
declutter and organize
depersonalize
reconfigure the furnishings and accessories

Aside from having a few great real estate agents to refer to all of my clients (if they need one) I also need to have a great referral for things like cleaning, painting, minor repairs, landscaping, etc.

I have the added benefit to refer my husband, Tim, to my clients for their home repairs. Being a home stager, it's the perfect marriage for my business. He's been hired by clients to perform the repairs and changes I've suggested. He's also been referred by an agent friend of ours to perform some repairs designated on the inspection report of a house that her client is purchasing. Additionally he's worked alongside our neighbor who owns Precision Home Improvement as well as performing multiple improvements in our home from finishing the basment to closing up a wall, to removing windows and installing doors.

His business, ATR Home Improvement, serves the northern Atlanta area, including Roswell, Sandy Springs, Marietta, Woodstock, Acworth and Kennesaw. His specialty is custom carpentry but will do flooring, painting, and other projects as necessary.

We are currently working on a joint marketing plan for the fall for redesign services. Redesign is an inexpensive alternative to update a room or rooms and a great way to prepare the house for the upcoming holidays...which will be here before you know it!

Atlanta Home Stagers: A Rug Resource For You

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:09:25 -0500

With special thanks to Annette Burnett of Sellers Advantage Home Staging in John's Creek, GA for making the connection, the Metro Atlanta chapter of ASHSR met on September 24 for it's monthly meeting at Liberty Oriental Rugs in Norcross, GA.

{l to r: Kathy Lockwood, Jeanne Nolan, Jennifer Lybeer, Annette Burnett, Abby Reilly, Stacie Stamper; Rowan in front} We look tiny in front of that beautiful 9'x12' rug.

Our host, Stacie Stamper, gave us a guided tour of their warehouse, which is open only to the trade, not to the public. While they sell to retailers, they specialize in assisting designers select the perfect rugs for the rooms being designed. Their rugs can be purchased from many high end retailers around the Atlanta area however working with a professional that is obtaining their one on one guidance will ensure the homeowner is getting the perfect rug. This is great for redesign work.

Liberty Oriental Rugs specializes in handmade rugs from Pakistan. They operate their own manufacturing facility there ensuring high quality product, on trend with color and design, hiring the most talented weavers (with the best of the best coming from Afghanistan) and making sure there isn't any child labor.

As part of our tour we also met Rowan, the warehouse manager, designer, do-it-all man. He gave us the most amazing product knowledge:

from the difference in knots per inch and what it translates to regarding quality, details and price
to the use of wool and/or silk as the yarns for their rugs
the process of dying the yarns
that it can take anywhere from 6-12 months to create one rug
how to properly clean rugs
proper room design begins with a rug, not ends with it
straight down to proper furniture placement on the rugs

The topic of rental options came up because, for home staging, the pricepoints are high, unless someone was staging a luxury home. The owner, Jim, said he'd be interested in pursuing rental options for Atlanta's home stagers! Great news!!!!

So, home stagers in Atlanta, contact Stacie {877.208.4970} to set up your account with Liberty Oriental Rugs. She's also a GREAT resource for vendor referrals.

Taking a Moment to Remember Sept 11, 2001

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:18:30 -0500

September 11, 2001...a day in history, with today being the 7th anniversary, that none of us will ever forget. Nor should we.

It's funny, whenever I meet people for the first time they typically will ask "Where are you from?" within about 5 minutes. I guess my good ole New York accent is hard to hide. Once I say NY, sometimes I'll say specifically Staten Island, most often our conversation will turn to 9.11.01. (And for the record, I do not compare to the show True Life: Staten Island Girl, either. hahaha... They do exist, I'm just not one of them.)

I wasn't one of those people that were in the towers, or even in the adjacent buildings that morning. I wasn't one of those people that were stranded in Manhattan that morning either, although I have friends that were. I wasn't one of those people that were caught in that dust cloud as the towers collapsed.

But, like many of you out there, I was at work preparing for what should have been just another day at work. Just like all those innocent people that were killed that day...it was just another day. It was a beautiful day too. The sky was bright blue and the air had a crispness to it showing signs of early fall but the big bright sun still warmed up the day like it was summer. It was my parents 30th wedding anniversary that day. It was also my 1 one year anniversary working for Guess?. Before I even had a chance to open my store for business that day, that beautiful, 'just another day' was over.

I worked at Jersey Gardens Mall in Elizabeth, NJ, which is located adjacent to the Newark-Liberty International Airport, right off the New Jersey Turnpike, and across the river from Manhattan. An associate at a store across the hall from me called me to keep me posted with what was going on...I had no idea because we didn't have our radio on. I tried calling my mother because she was home watching my daugther but I couldn't a call through. I began to think of all those people because I worked for a short time at 5 World Trade Center and know how busy that area is in the morning. I have friends that work in Manhattan and began to worry about them. Finally I got in touch with my mother who had been outside playing. Her neighbor told her what was going on so she went inside to turn on the news and then called me at work. I began to panic because she said they reported the city was in lock-down...all bridges and tunnels leading into the city were closed. That was a problem because I was in NJ and required a bridge to get home. All of my NJ connections were en-route to Manhattan, in Jersey City, Hoboken and Weehawkin, so I didn't dare try to head that way. My last connection was my uncle who lived about 45 minutes south in NJ but he was out of town. My dad told me to head that way anyway.

When I got the OK from our West Coast office to close up the store and get home safely, I wanted to cry because I couldn't go home. I was stuck. As I left the mall and headed for the turnpike entrance, I peered over toward Manhattan and saw that smoke plume. The traffic was practically stopped. I tuned into Howard Stern and remember his voice...his normal sarcasm and dirty humor was not there...he was serious. It was quiet outside...eerily quiet. I ended up stopping at a service station in Perth Amboy, NJ because if they decided to open the bridges I'd be close and I needed to stop driving. I didn't have a cell phone and I was alone. I remember how insanely quiet it still was. A very nice girl in the convenience store allowed me to call my mother to touchbase...she also allowed me to give her the store's phone number so they could call me back. (See, there are nice people!) After spending the day alone and not really knowing what was going on, other than from the few phone calls I was able to make, I got home thanks to a neighbor who had a boat. He picked me up from the Perth Amboy marina. As I took that boat ride home around Staten Island to the Great Kills marina, the plume of smoke still rose high above the north end of Staten Island.

I'd say I suffered from some kind of post traumatic stress disorder for days and weeks to follow. I couldn't turn off the news. I'd wait for the newspaper to come so I could see if there was anyone else I knew that perished that morning...and I went to school with a quite a few. The days and weeks that followed included one funeral procession after another...the NYPD and FDNY that were lost, the people in the towers...our little part of the South Shore was greatly effected. I remember standing outside many times in reverance as those processions passed the house.

As I drove to work in the days that followed, taking the West Shore Expressway past the Fresh Kills Garbage Dump, which became the place for the sorting of the debris from the towers, I remember seeing the crushed emergency vehicles up on the hill, the refrigerated trucks heading towards it knowing it contained remains, and dump truck after dump truck of metal and concrete.

I also remember going to school, and I was taking an American gov't course at the time, and saying how everyone pulled together and seeing a renewed sense of patriotism among the community. Unfortunately, it takes a disaster for people to pull together and realize how good they have it. I think the lesson was to be grateful no matter what.

I guess I just want everyone to take a minute to remember. Remember all those lives that were lost. They woke up thinking it was just another day too. Whether they were on a plane or sitting at their desk, it was just another day. Their lives were stolen from them. They deserve to never be forgotten...that is the least we can do.

Even if you take a minute to remember where you were, what you were doing when you found out what was going, etc. Just remember. They aren't really dead until they are forgotten and I think we, as Americans, owe it to them to never let them die.

Never Forget.

September 11, 2001

So, you're an expert, huh?

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 21:44:16 -0500

Yes, you are an expert. What ever field you are in, you are an expert. Well, you have to be an expert at something, right? Think of something that you do really well. There you go...you are an expert!

I'm an expert at a lot of things:

Folding jeans perfectly (hey, I was visual manager for GUESS? for almost 6 years...I can do it my sleep, ok?)
Folding perfect towels.
Making marinara (C'mon, I'm half Italian and grew up on Staten Island. There would be something wrong with me if I couldn't make marinara!)
Organizing closets.

You get the idea....

Now that we've established that, I want you to think about the opportunities you've had to get paid for your expertise, no matter what it is. How many people are willing to pay you to learn what you know?

As a home stager here in Atlanta, the only time I'm able to get paid for my expertise is when I perform a consultation, whether it be verbal or written, or if I get hired to perform a physical staging job. {No, I do not fold jeans or make marinara when I stage.} I love sharing expertise here on ActiveRain but the reality is, I'm not getting paid for it and neither are you. Yes, you are getting the value from the Google juice and organically establishing your business online is an amazing thing to do...that is true. But where's the moola?

But, what if you could get subsidized for writing as an expert and still maintain your online presense? Would you be interested?

If you are, check out EHow. They have a Writers Compensation Program for those experts that share their knowledge of how to do something they know how to do well, with the rest of the world. How cool is that? You simply JOIN, establish a writers account and then create your profile. VOILA...you're ready to start contributing!

Now, for record, I'm not abandoning ActiveRain nor am I encouraging anyone else to. =)

And, I found this quote to be quite amusing: Those who think they know it all have no way of finding out they don't. -Leo Buscaglia

Take 90's Brass into the new millenium...on a budget

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:44:12 -0500

When I'm called upon to conduct a home staging consultation, it's typically for an occupied resale in the northern suburbs of Atlanta. The homeowners often just want professional guidance: to be told where to begin, what to do and what not to do. As I take my notes, I include everything that should be done to update but prioritize according to ROI because realistically not everyone has the budget to do everything. This helps them decide how to best spend their money.

The development of suburban subdivisions in Metro Atlanta over the last 15-20 years, or so, have left today's market with some very 'dated' resale homes in comparison to the amount of vacant new construction available. With foreclosures and short sales on the rise, homeowners are often strapped for cash and cannot always afford to spend much to update anything.

~How do the resales compete with the new construction that has all the bells and whistles people want today and are in the same price category?

~Why would a buyer want to buy a dated resale when they could purchase an updated new home for practically the same price?

Realistically, a resale will not get the large return on investment to do ALL of the upgrades that comparably priced new construction has to offer. What to do? A few cosmetic adjustments will provide the home with the updated aesthetics that buyers are looking for...and here's one small way.

The dreaded brass light fixtures hanging in the kitchens, dining rooms etc. of so many circa 1990 homes immediately date the house, unless it's done totally right and on purpose...which isn't often. =) Solution? Well, yes purchasing another fixture is ideal but if you have a few fixtures to replace, the price will add up quickly. Inexpensive solution? Paint it!

A good choice is Rust Oleum American Accents Metallic Paint. A couple of coats work wonders to update a brass light fixture. A clear coat will help protect the finish. The color used for my project was Oil Rubbed Bronze. We all know how great those bronze fixtures look but that they come with a price tag too.

This Brass light fixture made the dining appear very dated, even after painting the room an updated neutral (used Behr Cappucino).

Now, with it's new paint finish, it side-steps into the new millenium like it's real oil rubbed bronze cousins.

We're probably going to source mini shades for this fixture to coordinate with the buffet lamps being used on the sideboard, to soften the white stems.

Thinking about becoming a Home Stager? Consult with the Pros first.

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 19:59:05 -0500

If you are deciding whether or not a career as a home stager is right for you, then you have some HW to do. The internet is the perfect place to begin your search. Make sure you have some paper and a pen ready to take notes. A nice cup of coffee would work well, too! Take your time because you are considering starting a business and these things take time.

The first thing that will jump out are the numerous home staging training companies. Research them carefully to find out which one works best for you, your needs and your budget. Please note that professional home stagers do not need to be 'certified' or 'accredited' in any way. It is still an unregulated field. Any certification essentially becomes a big part of your marketing...that's it.

Organizations, such as RESA and ASHSR, are great ways for newbie stagers to network with more experienced stagers in their geographical area, regardless of training background. Take advantage of what they have to offer!

An important thing one can do is to research the NEED for a home stager in your targeted market. If you find your market is already flooded with home stagers, you can guarantee that you'll be working your butt off to market your newbie staging business in the shadows of the other established companies. You aren't Starbucks...and even they realized they didn't need to open up shop on every other corner! The area you target should have plenty of room for you. A healthy competition is good for everyone's business.

The second most important thing is to consult with real estate professionals that you know. Do it BEFORE you start up...not AFTER. There's no pressure involved! Limit your time to ones that are good at what they do.

- - Pick their brains...see how they feel about home staging.
  - Do they currently use a home stager?
  - If they do, find out all that you can about their experiences.
  - Ask them how they feel about home staging services for your target market.

The last suggestion is actually one of the first things I did when doing my research prior to starting my home staging company here in Atlanta. My husband and I met with his friend Dave and his wife LuAnn. LuAnn is a well-known agent in Atlanta's luxury-home market and Dave is a corporate consultant. LuAnn was gracious enough to give me honest answers to all of my questions and as a result thoroughly encouraged me to pursue my home staging business.

Ironically, LuAnn is staging realtor (ASP, I think) although she does work closely with a top stager in Atlanta (and, no, it's not me! lol) She truly believes in the power of home staging which I'd guess answers why she's so successful. As a result, she's become the go-to person from her colleagues regarding home stagers. At a recent caravan one agent asked another agent if she knew of a stager who conducted Home Staging Consultations. The agent said no but referred her to LuAnn, stating she'd know of one. Now, that's networking...gotta love it!

And, thanks for that referral, LuAnn. =)

Tips for Preparing to Sell, on the Today Show

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 17:23:02 -0500

It's not often I get to sit and watch television in the morning. I left NBC on this morning in the living room while catching up on emails. It was just loud enough that I could hear what was going on if I tuned in.

Thankfully, my ears perked up at the perfect time as the clip with Barbara Corcoran on the Today Show came on. I heard something said about 'Curb Appeal' and quickly stopped what I was doing to sit for a minute and watch. If you didn't get to tune in...take a peak.

Home Stager: Take Two, Please...From the Top!

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 22:57:53 -0500

Let me tell you how much pressure this is. This isn't a homeowner sold on home staging hype or someone else's home staging testimony. This is a homeowner sold on his own personal statistics and testimony. They've been there and done that with the home staging process. Now the question is, can it be replicated? That's a lot of pressure. I was left with some pretty big shoes to fill!

The assumption is, if they staged a house and sold it within a week 3 years ago in Florida why shouldn't they be able to stage a house here in Atlanta today and get the same result? That was never a discussion but in the back of that homeowner's mind I'd be willing to bet that expectation is definitely there. I has to be...that's why they called for a verbal home staging consultation to get started!

What concerns me is comparing the difference in those markets....or lack thereof. That is an important determining factor in this situation. I was slightly relieved when the homeowner said she expected the house to sit at least 6 months. She actually said she wants to weigh out renting versus purchasing because she's expecting to pay for atleast 6 months worth of rental...may be just worth it to purchase.

But, the homeowners analogy at the end of the visit solidified their reasoning for calling in a home stager: "I just don't understand how people can just put there house on the market and NOT do this. It's like going on a first date and not showering first!" Priceless response!!! Gotta love it!!!

A Phisher turned out to be an Interviewer!

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:10:46 -0500

I was picking up my daughter this afternoon when I saw that I had 2 new voicemails. I didn't recall my phone ringing although having my son and my neighbor's daughter in car while they were playing the Sweenie Todd soundtrack might have been the reason I didn't hear it! As I sat and waited for Kate's bus to arrive, I checked my new messages.

First call: My neighbor verifying the address to where I was dropping her daughter off to. OK, great...I was waiting for that information!

Second call: It was 'Bob' looking for some information about Home Staging and could I call him back. Vague...to say the least.

Finally, about 30 minutes later, I was back at my desk so I called 'Bob' back. After I introduced myself and he asked if he could put me on speaker so his wife could participate...I said yes.

Suddenly, they began grilling me!

What made me choose my training provider?
How was my business doing in general?
Who did I market to: agents or homeowners?
How many homes did I stage per week/month?
What is the ASHSR chapter about?
How many members do we have?
What areas of Atlanta do I market my home staging service?

And the list just went on....and on...and on.

Luckily, after all was said and done, 'Bob' told me that he and his wife were agents and were looking to partner with our ASHSR chapter! He said he does not believe ANY house should be listed BEFORE it is professionally staged...especially in this market. As an agent, he said he did not believe that a really good agent could be a really good stager at the same time! He said he prefers to allow each professional do what they are good at!

End result? This potentially could be a great connection for our chapter, as a whole. I'm really looking forward to meeting Bob as he will join us for our July teleconference meeting.

WHEW!!!!! Thank goodness I did a good job with that interview! I just thought he was phishing for information...then I thought he was looking for training information...but I was all wrong!!! I love it when I'm wrong...OK, maybe only sometimes! =)

Hey Ladies! I've got something for you!

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:34:27 -0500

We all know how important social networking is. You have to make those connections in order to grow your business. You may learn from one contact and teach another. The give and take process is forever in exchange. And as home stagers, we are continually trying to educate about what it is that we do...here's a new avenue to branch out to.

Well, on top of Facebook, LinkedIn and MySpace, among the thousands of others that are out there, I'd love to introduce you to the new social network on Ladies Who Launch. I cannot tell you how inspired I was after attending the LWL Incubator Workshop here in Atlanta and now look forward to connecting with other inspirational women from all fields from all over.

If you are looking to be inspired...Professionally and Personally...then this may be the place for you to try on for size. If nothing else, it's another place to feature your business listing for FREE! =) And, you can't beat any kind of free marketing for yourself!

Happy Launching!

I stand for Family

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 13:09:29 -0500

I am inspired by Lori Kim Polk's recent post to write about my mission as a home stager.

As home stagers we help people during a time when they need us most. I previously posted how home staging can help relieve some of the stress brought on by moving...and I stand by that notion! We all need help from time to time in our lives. Sometimes we can get that help for free, other times we have to pay the professional. Home stagers are there when it's time to call the professional!

In February of this past year, I took the Ladies Who Launch Incubator workshop. One of the excercises we had to do was evaluate one another based upon what little we knew about them. All 6 of the women said I stood for FAMILY. They said that I stand for family on a personal level, from my marriage, my children, my parents, sister, niece and entire extended family as well as what I do for a living...I help families transition from one point in their lives to another point in their lives.

How cool was that?

The coolest part was that they all saw that in me. So, while I haven't changed my business mission statement (and perhaps I may amend it) it put a whole new spin how I approach prospective clients.

Thanks for the inspiration, Lori Kim.

Thanks to the Ladies Who Launch Incubator members for helping me see who I am and what I stand for! It's interesting to see yourself through other people's eyes!

Atlanta has some really great stagers!

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 23:11:19 -0500

Yes, it is true...Atlanta has some really great home stagers. Not just great talent, but truly great people! Some of the nicest people I have ever met have been over the last year and half as a home stager. It's definately become a nice perk!

This past February, our tiny ASHSR chapter here in Atlanta met for the second time and one of the topics discussed was doing a project to give back to the community. For all intents and purposes, it was a way for us to work on something together as a team while paying it forward to those that help others every single day.

We had the opportunity, in May, to meet with the Executive Director of the Georgia Cancer Foundation, Rudy Morgan, and the Director of Development, Tracy Madigan. GCF hosted our meeting on Cinco de Mayo, providing us with a very appropriate, and yummy!, lunch from Moe's...OK, sans the margaritas but the limeade was a refreshing twist!

We coordinated with the GCF people to schedule a date to redo the communal spaces within their brand new office. GCF provides services to women undergoing chemotherapy...often due to breast cancer. They provide a service to fit women for prosthetics, wigs, etc called the Angel Boutique.

After a long month of organizing...thanks to the leadership of Jennifer Lybeer of Creative Staging...we completed our staging project today! It came out incredible, thanks to all the stagers that participated and contributed along with the generous donations from the Atlanta Brook furniture rental store.

Metro Atlanta ASHSR chapter members that participated in the GCF installation project:

Back row: Whitney Newton of Stage to Amaze; Kathy Lockwood of Stage Hands; Holly Lybeer; Jennifer Lybeer of Creative Staging.

Front row: Abby Reilly of ALR Home Staging; Annette Burnett of Sellers Advantage Home Staging; Jeanne Nolan of Creative Staging.

(missing: Melanie McGann of Stage to Amaze; Annika Berke of Ischgebibbel Home Staging and Angela Darrish of Edge Redesign.)

In some ways, this was a regular staging job: moving furniture around to create comfortable seating areas, allowing for traffic flow, adding inviting touches of warmth to an otherwise cold environment, trying not to be too specific in taste in order to appeal to the 'masses'.

BUT, what was different is that the intention is to touch every single life that walks through that door, whether it's a GCF employee, a GCF volunteer or a patient in need of their services. The GCF people help people every day and we wanted to take the time to help THEM do what they do to help OTHERS. Click here to take a peak at the outcome of the group project.

I'm so proud of everyone I worked with today. This is one fabulous group of home stagers...talented in so many ways but most of all...they are truly NICE PEOPLE. I choose to surround myself with people just like them! Thanks for making my day, ladies! =)

Kathy Tagged Me...I'm It...

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 18:11:08 -0500

Since Kathy Nielsen , one of the most fab stagers in Atlanta, tagged me days ago, I figured I should make the time to take her up on it...here goes...

Tag, I'm it...

Who is your favorite musical artist? Depeche Mode. There's nothing like a DM concert at Madison Square Garden in Manhattan. Next tour I'll be flying to NY for that!
Who is your favorite artist? I don't know that I have one favorite...I admire all artists. I know personally what it takes to create something from just a vision or inspiration and how amazing the entire process is from start to finish, regardless of the medium. My sculpting professor, Ralph, was a pretty awesome artist...I learned a lot from him.
Who is your favorite blogger? I have a few faves but I'd say Elaine Manes for her wit...I can always count on her for a chuckle or a smile. =)
If you could meet anyone (alive or dead), who would it be and what is the most interesting thing about them? Um...probably Jackie O...I love her style, especially those glasses...I'm a HUGE fan of big sunglasses! =)
What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a dermatologist, a fashion designer or a teacher. Well, I never did good in science so there went the short lived dream of medical school. I did go to FIT but not for fashion design...for fashion merchandising and took a fashion design course which I got an A in! And, well, teaching...my intention for going back to college years ago was to get a teaching degree...it didn't happen..I ended up with an Art degree. Don't count me out yet...I'm trying to get certified as a substitute teacher for this year!
What is the most interesting piece of trivia you know? An interesting thing is that I have Dutch relatives from my mother's side of the family that date back to the early 1600's as early American settlers, arriving on the 'Spotted Cow' (the name of the boat they came over on.)
If you could live in any point in history what would it be and why? In the 20's before the Depression...there is some really great fashion there! Plus, it was a cool time in American history...especially NY...I'd love to be in NY during that time.
What is the most interesting job you have ever held? Being a nanny for 18-month old triplets for a summer between HS and college. Those triplets turned 17 this year and taking their road tests' this month for their license to drive...man, do I feel old!

OK, so that's that! I'm tagging Audrey Hoffman, Mogan Schott, and Connie Tebyani

The Piano: When There's a Pink Elephant in the Room

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Wed, 21 May 2008 12:03:31 -0500

Right now I'm in the middle of doing some home staging homework...yes, I do that to myself on occasion to keep the skills sharp. I'm scouring through local listings of occupied homes in Woodstock, GA to target my local area. The gas prices are getting to me so I'm trying to limit my 'commute' if I can. =)

Anyway, I've only gone through about 15 occupied listings so far and have come across about 5 homes with pianos. Doesn't that seem like a lot? Was there some kind of piano sale years ago that everyone took advantage of?

When I look at these listings, and reference homes I've been to on previous occasions, the piano is typically placed in the formal living room. The formal living rooms are not usually that big. The intended function was a quiet sitting area, often when company comes over, etc. and is big enough to hold a smaller sofa, a chair or two, end tables, cocktail tables and that is about it.

When the piano is placed in these rooms, they consume quite a bit of the space although they are typically pushed up against a wall which takes up space but doesn't create any depth. Attempts are made to create seating vignettes within the room but when placed around the space it limits the ability to envision people sitting there and socializing together...everyone would be paired off. That's not inviting, I don't think. And then what becomes the main attraction of the room? The piano...hence, our pink elephant because you really can't ignore it.

So, my fellow stagers, what do you do with pianos in your occupied homes?

One Mother of a Home Stager~My Gift of Appreciation

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Thu, 15 May 2008 17:35:18 -0500

It's nothing new that Kathy Nielsen is a very dear friend of mine.

I became an admirer of her work and professionalism on Active Rain over a year ago. I've said it before and I'll say it until I die...I'm forever thankful for Kathy---she agreed to meet me even though I was a complete stranger and novice stager. We both laugh when we talk about 'Why?' she agreed because she never does that and I am not the kind of person that solicits complete strangers for advice.

It must have been in cards for us to be friends.

Kathy never ceases to amaze me with her home staging talent and abilities along with her continued professionalism. She has a built a very strong home staging business here in Atlanta, Georgia Interior Solutions, and has surrounded herself with very strong real estate professionals that continue to recommend and utilize her services. She returns those favors by further referring those agents to prospects that are looking for agents. Her business is one to admire, for sure.

Here on Active Rain, Kathy has earned the respect from other home stagers from across the nation and it is respect well deserved. She is truly a remarkable woman. It is no wonder that Kathy was extended the position of Regional VP for the SouthEast of RESA.

With that said, Kathy is one Mother of a Home Stager! =)

Thank you for your friendship, my dear friend.

Thank you, ActiveRain, for bringing her into my life.

A Home Stager could be an RX for Moving Stress

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:48:19 -0500

It's no secret that moving is one of the top stresses one will endure during their lifetime. And, gone are the days of living in the 'family' house for 50 years (for the most part!). Today, there are many people moving from one house to another every 10-15 years. Those timeframes may be much shorter for many if we consider those that take corporate relocations for advancement, those in the military, etc. Whatever the reason for the move, it is stressful. Compound the number of times people move these days and that is a lot of stress to endure during a lifetime.

Home stagers, by trade, help people. We help people make their biggest asset, their home, more desirable for a larger targer market with the intention of getting the house to sell faster and for more money (hopefully!).

A home stager will direct the home owner what personal effects in the home need to be removed in order to make to neutralize it. A home stager will declutter the space by removing any unnecessary items within the room that distract from the selling features of the house:

The size and space,
the focal points,
the traffic flow,
the functionality of the room,
achitectural features,
etc.

Why not consider the services of a home stager to relieve some the stress of moving?

Begin the process of moving with a home stager. The benefits are:

Getting organized...determining what stays and what goes!
Getting things packed early...great for the proscrastinators!
Begin the separation process and slowly detach to reduce stress when the move is final.
Seeing the house transformed from someone's home into a marketable product.
Gain professional referrals for other services like real estate professionals, inspectors, painters, handy-men, landscapers, etc.

Active Rain is a great place to locate a professional home stager in all areas of the United States and Canada. Reduce your stress and contact a home stager when preparing to sell a home.

A Lasting Impression

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Wed, 07 May 2008 14:31:08 -0500

Most of us will go through our lives meeting many people from all walks of life.

Those of us that provide a service, like myself being a Home Stager, we continually have the opportunity to meet new people on an almost daily basis. Some of them will be short term working relationships and others may blossom into long term working relationships. A few may even develop into solid friendships. I've been lucky enough to go through my career and end up with a few of those.

For those of us who come from previous corporate backgrounds, you typically work with the same group of people and get the occasional pow-wow to meet others from other departments, offices, regions, etc. It's probably safe to say that those you work with daily are those you develop longer and stronger relationships with than those you meet a couple of times per year. Luckily, being I was in a retail environment, I did get to meet many other people as thousands of people crossed over my threshold each week and we made sure we interacted with each person who came in.

I spent almost 6 years with my previous company. Most of that time was spent in the same position in the same location. I became one of the 'fixtures' there, which was OK because I knew my job really well and knew the location like the back of my hand. I pretty much became to 'go to' person for the newer people below me and the 'go to' person for those above me because we'd built that relationship.

My regional manager had been a newly promoted district manager when was first hired. She became instrumental in my development and progress within the company as she rose in rank. Although she often took the 'Simon Cowell approach' to constructive criticism, because she expected the best and expected us to rise beyond our potential to challenge ourselves, I knew she respected me and the job I did. I didn't know how much until my last day when she gave me a book entitled Whatever It Takes, A Journey Into the Heart of Human Achievement, which is a compilation of quotes.

The card she included, which thanked me for years of service and for being an instrumental part of the team, directed me to a specific page with a quote that she put an asterisk next to:

"Know you're good, wear it well and share it with others. Self-esteem is the degree to which you like and respect yourself and feel confident in dealing with life's challenges."

So, my lasting impression from my regional manager, Jennifer at Guess? Inc, was just that. She gave me the courage and strength to move onto new things. I know I'm good at what I do but humble enough to know I can always do better and that there's always someone out there that can do better than me.

AR has been a great avenue to share...so thank you ActiveRain and to all the fabulous people I've had the chance to interact with, even those members I've been fortunate enough to meet here in Atlanta.

ASHSR has been invaluable for me to meet new people with the hopes to be able to build lasting relationships.

And thank you Jennifer for allowing me to part with my head up as I moved onto the next chapter of my life. You've left me with an amazing lasting impression of you and of Guess?. I'm proud to have been a part of that team for as long as I was. (and, I really miss that discount, too!)

The Option of Hourly Home Staging Services

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Fri, 02 May 2008 10:54:21 -0500

Part of starting up a home staging business includes determining a pricing standard or guideline for services. A wise entrepreneur would probably begin the process by researching what his/her 'competitors' are charging for their services. Do they need to charge the same? No and I hope that they wouldn't. But, one does not want to underprice to devalue the service or themselves, nor do they want to overprice to out-price themselves out of their market.

Healthy competition is good for business.

There are a variety of ways to determine the price of the service.

The size of the home. Two considerations to determine the size are the square footage and the number of rooms.

With that being said, a home stager could charge a price per foot or simply determine a flat rate per room.

The time frame for the service.

The home stager should know how long it will take to stage the room or be able to budget an appropriate time frame for it.
The time frame will depend on what actually has to get done: moving furniture within the room or from one room to another; are rental pieces being brought in; reaccessorizing with existing accessories or utilizing rental, or new.
Has the home owner properly prepared for the staging to take place or does the stager have to incorporate additional time to complete the preparations?

The number of assistants.

People don't work for free...most of the time. Has that expense been covered in the cost?

Additional costs related to home staging:

Rental pricing for furniture and accessories
Or, a shopping budget to purchase new, if the homeowner prefers to not rent. (then also tack on a 'shopping fee'!)

I designed my pricing for services based upon a flat rate system. For the most part it has worked well for me. I know how quickly, or slowly, I work based upon the circumstances and will accommodate accordingly. I organize myself ahead of time so I don't feel like a 'chicken with it's head cut off', running around aimlessly room to room...how unprofessional is that?

Recently, an agent I've gone back and forth with for almost a year now approached me about working for her on a hourly basis as she'd be paying me and wanted to manage the expense better. We discussed how she's lost listings to other agents who bring a home stager along with them to stage the properties and that those agents pay them hourly for their service. Since I'd tried selling her on the consultation and service packages without success (although not a complete loss because she hasn't written me off yet...) I figured I'd give it a shot since she'd offered a reasonable hourly rate---better than nothing!

What she wanted was for me to meet her at the property, site unseen and without me meeting the homeowner, and just do my thing...that's it. {She did tell me that did get permission to have me come over from the homeowner, who was away on vacation, and that she said to do whatever needed to get done. The only thing the agent poo-pooed was the removal of the all of the family pictures...and there were a TON of them}

I was a little uncomfortable with it because as I explained to her, when I do a consultation, or just meet to provide an estimate, I do a few things:

I create the plan of action for the homeowner to begin to depersonalize the house. It also gives me a chance to become engaged with the homeowner, learn a little about them, where they are going, etc. in order to build rapport.
From doing the initial walk through, I get a chance to see things as is and formulate what I think needs to get done. This is really important because often times pieces of furniture need to be displaced from one room to another. This is where I know how much help I'll need to bring in, if any at all.
I also get the opportunity to determine what accessories, if any, should be brought in.

But, I agreed to try it out because if other stagers out there are doing it, why can't I?

I'm happy to report that in 2 and half hours I was able to reconfigure the furniture layout of the formal living room, declutter the top of 16Ft bookshelves, somewhat organize the children's playroom, set up vignettes in the kitchen and the master bathroom.
This home is exceptional, though, located in the Sugarloaf Country Club and perfectly decorated...not too much, not too little. I could have spent another 2.5 hours in that playroom alone BUT without the owner's consent to change/pack-up anything I did the best I could under the circumstances.
I also do not have pictures because I never met the homeowner to get consent. =(

I'd love to hear from other home stagers out there that work hourly and how it works for you.

An Occupied Home Staging Client that listens...

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:27:23 -0500

Staging an occupied home is very different than staging a vacant home.

The occupied home has so many personal effects to contend with while the vacant has none.
The occupied home has someone still trying to live in the house while the vacant has none.
The occupied home typically has clutter issues while the vacant house has none.
The occupied home has existing furnishings that are typically used to stage with while the vacant has pre-selected furnishings brought in based upon the stager's design plan.
The total cost to stage an occupied home is going to cost less than the total cost to stage a vacant, and that is simply because the needs are so different....

The biggest difference is the participation of the homeowner of an occupied vs a vacant when staging.

I recently staged an occupied home of a bachelor in Mableton, GA. The home was pristine and beautifully decorated. My job was to reduce some of the highly decorative touches and balance it out throughout the home, add furnishings to an empty dining room and stage the bathrooms and kitchen which appeared too 'functional'.

After spending a day there staging, I stood out front with him, while taking my last few exterior pictures and discussed the curb appeal from a buyer's vantage point. Sometimes even those super neat and tidy houses need a little extra to make it feel like home and make it feel special.

He took all of my suggestions, plus some: the stone was powerwashed, all the trim was painted, boston ferns to flank the entryway, additional landscaping and new rug for the entryway. He also informed me that he purchased video-rockers for the 'media room' I created in one of the secondary bedrooms...I'd suggested large floor pillows in front of the low TV stand but he spent the money on those instead.

Although I've given him the referrals, he has yet to decide to list with an agent. He's got it listed FSBO...we'll see how it goes. That's the only recommendation he has yet to take...

Storage solutions for small accessories

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 19:22:09 -0500

Most of our home staging accessories are larger items like lamps, bedding, rugs, vases, tableware, greenery, art, mirrors, etc.

But, there are some smaller items that are used to stage homes in conjunction with these larger items that add extra details to the displays...some necessary and some not so much.

I've found that for ease of sorting and loading for a staging job as well as for packing up to de-stage, the use of ziploc bags come in really handy for organizing those small items. I personally prefer the ones that have the slide zip but for function, any type would work. And because they come in a variety of sizes, they are a great addition to add to a home stager's inventory storage process. Plus----they are CHEAP! =)

As an example, I have used quart size ziplocs to sort and store River Rocks, Glass Stones, Potpourri, and different sets of shower curtain hooks.

I keep all of the bags in one one plastic bin to make the selection process easier when I'm gathering items for a staging job.

Anyone else have storage solutions they'd like to share?

I 'Launched' and loved every minute of it

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:30:46 -0500

Last year when I began my home staging business in Atlanta, I began my search for new and innovative ways to network and get my name out there to the public. Networking is a challenge to begin with but when you are new to a city with a local network that can be counted on one hand, there is that added challenge to over come. I was on a mission to beat that challenge! =)

Active Rain was a great beginning for me although it has taken me time to really meet people on a more local level. AR has really helped with my website placement. ASHSR was another great way to network locally although that didn't occur until early this year. The SIF Roundtables were another way to put names and faces together and look forward to the next one. Karen? Kathy? =) (You know I love you both and am more than willing to give you a hand next go 'round.)

One avenue I crossed paths with was the Ladies Who Launch network. LWL is a national network with local branches and full of really fabulous women from all industries and walks of life. I highly suggest any lady out there to check it out. There is a very active network here in Atlanta. I finally decided to attend the Incubator Intensive Workshop last month after almost a year.

The Incubator I attended was located at StudioPlex on Auburn in Inman Park in Atlanta. Really cool place if you are into artsy things... Montine Blank was the incubator leader and is owner of Paint Your Guts Out, which was the location of the 4-week intensive program.

So, what did I learn?

First, I learned that the 'project' I'd planned on working on ended up being changed after my introduction...I thought I was going to work on 'how to take my business to the next level' and ended up working on 'myself'...crazy, right?
I learned that every step I've taken has been the right one. It actually became a joke because everytime someone suggested something to do relating to the business, I'd laugh and say "did it...doing it...done it..."
The ultimate lesson for me was to have faith in my abilities and talents. I am my own worst critic. If I don't have faith in my abilities, neither will my clients.
That when you give to others you grow yourself. As women, we tend to worry about everyone else and neglect ourselves...that trait is the basis of the program.
That when you dream, and dream big, you can create it. LWL has the outlets to help make those dreams happen.

I'd like to thank the inspirational ladies that I met during my 4-week venture and thank them for all their input:

Montine Blank, Paint Your Guts Out

Alicia Ingram, A PR guru expanding services to a full blown Marketing service.

Anne Schrock, Simplicite' Australian Skin Care Product distributor and looking to publish a book based upon her newsletter entries.

Alisa Barry, Bella Cucina owner and looking to publish a book of inspiration.

Kathleen Osieki, With an NLP background she is starting up an online Advice Column.

Nichole Greco, starting a travel-based Lifestyle Brand.

My She-roes

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 16:03:43 -0500

We all encounter people in our lives that really impact us in one way, shape or form. Whether it be in a small way or in a big way, these people forever leave an indelible mark on us and help us to become who we are today and who we will become tomorrow. I have a few She-roes in my life that have left those marks on me.

I just returned from a week long trip to NY to visit my family. As many of you know, I try to get up there a couple of times a year because I left my family and friends when I moved South and I miss them all a lot. I struggled with the thought of taking time off during the Spring season because my home staging business has been pretty busy but sometimes you have to make decisions about what's most important. Hats off, my family comes first.

That trip had been planned since January. It was Spring Break week for my kids. It was perfect timing to plan a baby shower for my sister, who's due date was June 5, because I would be able to be up there to help out after doing all the planning long distance. All the planning in the world couldn't prepare us for our unexpected delivery on Good Friday. My sister gave birth to her baby girl 11 weeks premature. This was after being out of work for 6 weeks due to a respiratory illness and returning to work only 1 day and then having her water break.

My new niece, Ella Jane, born at only 2lbs 13oz, had one of her lungs collapse on Easter Sunday. She was intubated and had a chest tube inserted. 24 hours later they extubated her and hooked her up to the CPap machine. The chest tube was removed about a week later. The week I spent there I got to see Ella go from 1 hour off the CPap and 5 hours on, to 5 hours off and 1 hour on; I got to see her increase her feedings; I got to see her learn how to suck on a pacifier---she has to learn how to suck, swallow and breathe all together. The day I left she was completely off the CPap and had her first bottle. I got to see her change practically right before my eyes that week. This little bundle, who is no bigger than a football, is probably the strongest person I've ever met. While she certainly is not out of the woods and the Dr's keep saying "2 steps forward, 1 step back...it's still OK"---she's doing remarkably well.
My sister, Jane, is another really strong person. She always tells me how strong I am being I had my children in my early 20's, was divorced by the time I was 26, went back to college F/T while working F/T being a single mom, etc. I always told her "you do what you have to do when you have children...there's no other option". I've often been told that you are dealt only what you can handle and I truly believe that things happen for a reason. With that, I wonder, was she dealt this premature baby because she can handle it? Because Ella needed to be here sooner than she planned? All I know is that I am in awe of my sister right now because I don't know if I'd still be standing...this baby was given to the right mother, that's for sure.
My mother, Tauri, is another amazing person. She is a 'take no prisoners' kind of person but she is kind to the core. I've learned A LOT from her, especially how to be a no-nonsense kind of mom but be able to have a good time with my kids too. I have a great balance with them which allows me to be respected by them but at the same time have lots of fun with them too. My mom is still the person everyone goes to...even my friends...even my friend's daughter who is 3 has taken a liking to her! =) She calls my mom 'Mama-Tauri'...how cute is that?

I can't thank my mother enough for all the help she's given me over the years, especially most recently as she helped me immeasurably with my 2 children while I tried to go to work and school after my divorce 8 years ago. I can't thank her enough for helping me get back on my feet and never saying "I told you so" when she very easily could have. I can't thank her enough for supporting me through my decision to move out of state after getting remarried, although it hurt her to have me and my kids leave her.

I can't thank my sister enough for just being there for me. She's one of my best friends in the whole world. She helped me keep my sanity when the going got really tough. She helped me numerous times with my kids as well. I can't thank her enough, too, for supporting me with the move....we miss each other desperately.

And to Miss Ella...I can't thank that baby enough for allowing me to become an Aunt; for giving my sister a positive outlet and focus and a reason to do differently for herself because having the resposibility for a child is just a whole new dimension; for teaching us that every breath we take is so important and that even if we take those 2 steps forward and 1 step back, we are still ahead of the game and to keep moving on...I cannot wait until my next trip up there to see her...Hopefully she'll be home by then.

They are a few of my She-roes that I'm forever grateful to have in my life.

There are more....I may continue this one....

Working with a FSBO staging client

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 15:30:48 -0500

Let me say this first....I do not promote FSBO listings.

I truly believe homes should be professionally listed.

I was recently contacted by a prospective seller looking to prepare to list as a FSBO. When I arrived to meet him and tour the occupied home, I did some probing to find out why he wanted to take that route rather than list with an agent. Well, he claims he's not in a 'rush' to sell and figured he'd 'try it' and give it about 'six months'...if it didn't sell within that time frame then he'd pursue listing with an agent.

Is this the smartest move? I don't think so BUT he seems to be willing to risk it.

I staged the home this week. It was beautifully decorated which needed to be somewhat minimized and simply depersonalized with some rearranging. Some furniture was brought into the occupied home because he didn't want ANY room empty. All in all, the house came out great and the home owner is very satisfied with the result. He emailed me when he got home and said "It looks like a different house! I don't want to touch anything!!!!!"

The family room needed some tweaking in order to best highlight the selling features of the room. There was also a concern with the differences in scale of the furniture in the room.

By slightly shifting the angle of the sofa the opening from the family room into the kitchen is no longer blocked therefore creating a better flow.

The underscaled chairs were displaced to other rooms and the large ottoman was brought in from the master bedroom. The furry white rug was displaced too.

The dining room was set up as a gathering room complete with a bar. I suggested that it be transformed back to it's intended function: dining room, being the average prospective buyer will be able to relate to that rather than how it was currently set up.

By bringing in rental table and chairs and reaccessorizing the room with the homeowners existing accessories, the dining room now presents as a functional dining room.

This room is also important to the 'first impression' piece because it is adjacent to the front door.

The kitchen before. Needed to be decluttered in order to show all the beautiful features of the room.

Here is the kitchen after removing all the appliances and clutter from the counters.

My only concern was that the bar stools were removed from the home prior to staging...I was not made aware that they would not be available...had I known, I would have planned on bringing additional ones in.

What I have done is provided the information of a few listing agents that I've had the pleasure of 'working' with to this homeowner. I truly believe that this home should be listed professionally however you cannot force someone to do something they are not ready to do. You can only make the professional recommendations and they will do what it is they are going to do.

Either way I wish him well...this was a great house and he truly was a great client to work with.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'd like to thank Annette Burnett of Sellers Advantage LLC, based out of John's Creek, for assisting me with this project because I was hired to stage almost every room of this 3 floor house and there's no way I could have completed it alone in one day. This was the first project we worked on together. Annette was great to work with...she's got a very good eye for scale and furniture placement. It turned out well and the home owner was pleased.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The note that followed from the owner:

"Abby

Thanks to you and your team, great work." R.R., Duluth, GA

My encounter with the listing agent that staged...

Abby Reilly; NW Atlanta Home Stager (ALR Home Staging and Showcasing, LLC) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 23:34:20 -0500

I was called upon to provide a bid for a vacant new construction that has been on the market since November 2007. I was told that they'd already lowered the asking price by almost $50K! YIKES!

Since I was already out and about for my day, and not having any appts scheduled that afternoon, I was not completely prepared but I did not want to miss the opportunity so I ran over, in my sweats and flip flops (I instructed the HO that I was not 'dressed' to meet anyone...she said neither was she, that it was fine!) Ironically, the house is 3 houses down from the very first Vacant home I assisted in staging last year...good times...I remember it well.

Well, it was your standard vacant new construction...nothing too special to write home about. It was interesting that there wasn't any flooring in any of the bedrooms though. She said they'd install whatever the buyer wanted. OK...

What struck me was when I went into the master bathroom there were these plastic cubes on the granite vanity with hand towels folded in them and a brown bath towel tossed over the tub. The HO proudly announced that their agent already 'staged' that room for them so I didn't have to include that room in my bid.

HUH???????????

Let me back up to the kitchen...because she 'staged' that room too. A cookbook in the corner, one decorative bottle next to the stove, a small piece of greenery on the other side of the stove, 2 small rectangular pieces of greenery on the window sills (big time HUH???), 2 placemats with flat napkins---no rings or anything--and 2 wine glasses with an empty, lonely wine bottle as the centerpiece. (You can pick up your jaw now)

Well, I provided them with a standard vacant bid including those two rooms because if I was staging it, it was going to be done RIGHT. Yes, I would have used those items but added the additional items needed to properly present the space and the functionality.

The HO didn't go for my bid BUT she did want to hire me as a consultant for shopping because they were going to purchase the items with the intention of reselling them on Craig's List to recoup some of the money rather than spend the money on renting. OK, I can handle that. She liked my design plan and ideas so that was good.

LONG STORY SHORT:

I was there to help place the furniture I'd helped them select and then create a list of accessory needs for them to buy. The listing agent showed up to give her 2-cents as she proudly announced that she was starting to buy inventory to stage her own listings. Then commented how expensive it is. {Ya think?} Then commented how 'she doesn't really know what she's doing'. {That was a given} Then proceeded to recommend where to do go for the accessories...OMG...I wanted to pounce on her! The HO almost made me laugh when she said "Abby, give her your business card. She might need you one day" Oh yeh, good ol' miss agent saved them about $15 by saying she'd bring her own 'tray' from her 'inventory' as I'd recommended they buy a tray to place on the ottoman---they couldn't find a suitable cocktail table so they opted for an ottoman that could double as a cocktail table with the use of a tray. What really made me laugh was her reference to devoting a whole closet to accessories. Come on, now!

Back up to when I arrived, I was instructed that the agent wanted the house to look "Pottery Barn-ish". I'm sorry...I wanted to say "Why did you hire me if you didn't have faith in what I do?" I had no clue what was in store for me...good thing.

There were just way too many chiefs on this job.

BUT, a note from the HO:

"We enjoyed working with you and appreciate all your input. Good luck in all your future endeavors."

E.L., Marietta, GA

EDIT: Please note, HO=Homeowner... =)