Liz 's Blog

Montreal stager to get a website face lift very soon!

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:21:20 -0700

Hi Activerain colleagues, I'm looking forward to the release of my new website It's been in the works for way too long but excited that I now see the light at the end of the tunnel. Hope to get your feedback as I find that my style may take over and others may find it boring Look forward to sharing with you all very soon Liz

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Do you have a Facebook page for your business? Share the "LIKES" campagain

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 17:40:36 -0700

Hi Activerainers,

As a member of LinkedIn I have joined several chat forums for Home Stagers, ReDesigners and Interior Decorators, etc much like many for us have done here on Activerain, we share our ideas and our experiences.

Recently, I participated in a survey asking " DO YOU HAVE A FACEBOOK PAGE FOR YOUR BUSINESS?" if so would we mind exchanging "LIKES" ... Well, it was AMAZING the traffic that was generated with one post and word of mouth via print.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO THE SAME here on ACTIVERAIN? Share the "LIKES" on each others pages and see how traffic on your site increases! Fun and easy to do. My exposure went up almost 90% I will reciprocate to each of you that click "LIKE" on my page ... it generates interest and circulates to WHO KNOWS WHO that might be interested in your services.

Looking forward to seeing all your creative FB pages!

http://www.facebook.com/HomeHarmony

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Small Budget brings BIG results! BEFORE and AFTER Photos

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:04:23 -0800

Hi ACTIVERAINERS,

As you will see the budget on this one wasn't huge but it certainly made enough difference to influence buyers.

This home had multiple offers, SOLD in 14 days and exceeded asking ! What more could you ask for?

The homeowners are convinced that STAGING did the trick ... I like to think so ;o)

Noticed the artwork from the dinning area makes for a suitable piece in the guestroom below

(Piano to the left of the doorway in "before" was dark and shrunk the room considerably)

The homeowners had an extensive collection of sailboats so we pared them (packed some) down and created a room to display some finer pieces.

The master was looking less than "masterly" with furniture side by side by side! We regrouped, found art and added bedding. Although not a high-end look it's a great improvement over the original condition of the room.

(not visible: personal boat pics and sailboats throughout)

Some hand towels and art spruce up the space ... bathrooms are way too important to ignore.

LG HOME HARMONY - MONTREAL STAGING COMPANY

as you can see ... no budget is too small to make a big impact!

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Were not going to hide anymore ... Logo or Photo?

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 20:05:43 -0800

Hi fellow ACTIVERAINERS,

Once again, I have been absent from the blogging scene but with good reason. February continued to be another record breaking month for us here at Home Harmony in Montreal. I am happy to report we took a morning off ( good bonding time) to have some professional photos taken of our Team. We got to dress up and put on a little makeup ...

We had realized the importance of "good photos" sometime ago with the need for good before and afters of our projects and how many times have you heard the phrase " A picture is worth 1000 words"

With new staging companies cropping up all around us we thought it's time to have some professional shots taken for advertising and our website so people could put a face to the name. Admittedly we all have those photos we take ourselves ( reach out, up and click) or ones that our friends tag us in on FACEBOOK and that's ok too but we wanted a little more.

With Home Harmony being in business since 2007 our "mugs" have been quite visible in numerous Realtors offices, at open houses, trade-shows and in and around our communities. We are very serious about the services we offer at Home Harmony, we are not a fly by night company, we have survived and were not going to hide behind those little pink and green houses anymore!

So friends ... here we are Home Harmony's Team.

Louise Garai, Michelle King and me, Liz Gallagher

Harmonie au Foyer

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Home Stagers time to weight in ... was January 2011 better than 2010 for you?

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 12:25:10 -0800

Wondering if other Stagers on ACTIVERAIN are finding the month of January to have an increase over last year at this same time.

Despite this cold weather (and my urge to hibernate) homeowners are coming out in full force and ready to do business after the holidays. We at Home Harmony have seem more so this year than in the last few. Is this just a trend in the Montreal area? Are others seeing an increased need for stagers too?

Here are a few photos and some links to just a few projects HOME HARMONY has worked this last month. We hope to see Februrary break some records too!

Good Luck fellow stagers

http://www.remax-quebec.com/en/inscription/M/8464012.rmx

http://www.remax-quebec.com/en/inscription/M/8453675.rmx

http://www.remax-quebec.com/en/inscription/M/8338097.rmx

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Is it to late to wish you all a Happy New Year?

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 11:00:19 -0800

Hello to all my ACTIVERAIN neighbors.

I've been meaning to get on here and blog before now and wish you all the very best for 2011.

Happy belated New Year!

I remember my folks saying when I was a child "where does the time go" and "there just aren't enough hours in a day" as an adult I now know what they were talking about!

Time has been flying by. Home Harmony has been busy planning, Staging and redesigning around Montreal and there just isn't time lately to sit and chat/comment with my ActiveRain friends.

I seem to be caught up in a whirlwind of activities and don't have time for anything ... I will find balance soon ... I hope ;o)

Stay well my friends and I wish you all the LOVE , HEALTH and HAPPINESS possible in this New Year!

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

The Elves have been hard at work ...

Sat, 11 Dec 2010 14:47:49 -0800

Hello Fellow Activerainers,

Hope everyone has been well and productive during my absence.

Traditionally the fall months have been slower staging months here in Montreal but not for Home Harmony this year! Home Harmony's Elves have been busy staging steadily since September. I can tell you these Elves are looking forward to a little R & R during the holidays.

Here is one of our recent projects. This A frame home housed a lifetime of memories for the family that was raised here for 40+ years. It is to become someone elses' dream home soon. Ideal year round home, or rental property. This property would be a great couples or multi family getaway with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on two floors. Recreational room with additional insert fireplace on the ground floor which walks out onto the view of the waterfront.

Home Harmony went to work with these Realtors to produce a desirable less abandoned look. Painting the fireplace wall added warmth to the washed out white walls of this living area.

WANT TO HAVE A SLEEPOVER? HOW ABOUT NOW?

This is the Master bedroom, tired and dingy becomes bright and beautiful!

Minty green to ... CRISP AND CLEAN!

Situated on Lake of 2 mountains, only 10 minutes from the island of Montreal this cottage lifestyle could be a year round dream for the fortunate buyer. Long walks on a private island setting, boating or fishing off your own dock! I even saw a fox on my drive home! Just so beautiful.

Ooh just had a thought ... maybe the Home Harmony Elves can catch some well deserved R & R that this little hideaway on the waterfront!

Equally beautiful in the winter

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

From Shabby to CHIC for this young family's home.

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 12:19:51 -0800

I am sure that many of us as home stagers have encountered this same scenario, young married couple have inherited a collection of family heirlooms, furniture, accessories and art and set it up in their home as you see here. Unfortunately upon entering the home it looks like your going to visit Grandma and not this young expanding family's home.

Home Harmony was called in to put a spin on this decor to make it appeal to a wider spectrum of potential buyers ... I think we achieved it with a Shabby to Chic style to suit any family.

BEFORE

AFTER

Everything we needed was found within the home. Removing extra panels of the curtains and the rug help to lighten the room and show off the hardwood flooring.

BEFORE

AFTER

Furniture was moved between the two rooms to free up the space and create purpose.

Home Staging Consultant

Liz Gallagher (514) 927-0700

Montreal West- Island South Shore

www.HarmonieAuFoyer.com

www.HomeHarmony.ca

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Your Home Is Your Castle - Your House Is A Product For Sale

Sun, 19 Sep 2010 10:37:49 -0700

Sharon is dead on with her advice in this recent post.

Just this past week Home Harmony was faced with this very situation. Difficult to say the least. The homeowners just couldn't get this message ... I finally asked " how long has your house been on the market?" Reply. " a 1 1/2 years " to which I replied " then it's time to try something new" With much resistance they painted with our recommendations and we staged a few days later. The Realtor who we were hired by, was very pleased that " THIS PRODUCT " was finally showing to it's potential ... now she can do her job and SELL THAT CASTLE!

Via Sharon Tara New Hampshire Home Stager (Sharon Tara Transformations):

Advice to sellers: If you want to sell your home, you need to market it like any other product.

Your home just may be your castle and you can decorate it and live in it any way you choose.

Your comfort and your happiness is what really matters.

BUT...

When it comes time to sell your castle home... things need to change.

The number one Rule for Sellers is:

It's not your HOME anymore...

It's a PRODUCT FOR SALE

Consider your house a product and market it wisely.

Every other product is marketed using strategic shelf placement in the store,

label choices based on color and graphics that are appealing to buyers,

and advertising that grabs the public's attention.

Search your kingdom for the best real estate agent to market your product and consult with a professional home stager to guarantee the best showing condition.

In order to sell your house, you must grab the public's attention and appeal to them both visually and emotionally.

______________________________________________________________________________



Professional Home Staging services for the New Hampshire Seacoast

Portsmouth   Rye   Greenland   Hampton   North Hampton   Exeter   Dover   Stratham

603.661.8524

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Home Staging in Montreal on the rise ... and that's a good thing!

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 08:39:00 -0700

HOME HARMONY was called in once this listing changed hands ... I think you will agree this home had to make the leap out of the 80's ...

Something as simple as chair cover and a change of paint colour can make this big a difference.

Home Harmony was given a real challenge ... but I think we pulled it off ... the Agent was sure pleased. This home had been on the market for 1 1/2 years ... not much actions ... but now there are already viewings booked!

Montreal and area homeowner and Realtors, are you having trouble selling your home? Call Montreal's experts in Home Staging and let us put a little Harmony in your life!

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Climbing back on the "activerain" blog wagon.

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 21:09:48 -0700

Remember me? Yes, I'm still alive and staging here in Montreal. It's been some time since my last post but I have been keeping busy and enjoying the beautiful summer we are having. Hope you are up to the same.

Although the summer months are typically a little slower for the staging industry, Home Harmony has managed to keep busy with staging and organizing for Montreal area residents.

Here are a few pictures of a recent project. These home owners are relocating to the Toronto area and their Realtor called us in to stage their lovely home. Having 4 teenage children made it difficult for this Mom to get anything more than laundry done! Home Harmony was able to wrap things up in a 1/2 day staging.

Removing the wallpaper border in this kitchen made a HUGE difference. The colour of the paper was only enhancing the orange tone of the wood which was not a good thing for this somewhat dated oak kitchen.

Although this family room is quite large the dark furniture and accessories were srinking the room. We added the rug we found in the dinning area, drew back the curtains and removed the lacey ones under that didn't with this model look. We also removed some wall deco that was visually cluttering the space.

Using what we removed from the family room below we were able to enhance this beautiful bedroom with more jewel tone accessories. We relocated the dresser to the far side of the room because it was hindering the bedroom door from opening wide.

Home Staging Consultant

Harmonie au Foyer Home Harmony

West Island: 514-927-0700

Montreal: 514-928-0080

www.HarmonieAuFoyer.ca

www.HomeHarmony.ca

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

The thick and thin of SPA LIKE bathrooms. Tips, Tricks and Pics !

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 22:12:05 -0700

Bathrooms can make or brake the sale of a home. Here are a few simple tips that can add life to an otherwise tired or dated space. Creating the illusion and richness doesn't have to be expensive and it's often enough to create a diversion.

Today's trend for staging bathrooms is to create a "SPA LIKE " bath area.

To achieve this look start by purchasing some new thick and plush bath and hand towels. Preferably in white to add the richness and "pamper me" feel of a spa. Reserve the old thin worn out towels for everyday.

A nice touch is to roll and stack the towels on the side of the tub or place in a wicket or sea grass basket. We often find Wal-mart and Home Sense to have the best prices and selection.

It's VERY IMPORTANT to clear everything from the counter tops during a viewing. Toothbrushes and other personals should be hidden in a drawer. Excess on the counter leads buyers to think there many not be enough storage.

Bathroom musts.

good scrubbing (whiten the grout)
CLEAR the counter top (remove toothbrushes, hair brushes etc.)
remove shampoo and conditioner bottles from around the tub and shower.
if ceiling or walls are revealing mold ... PAINT!

Even older bathrooms can be revived with crisp towels and a new shower curtain. The bathroom below still has the original tiles! Look how intentional they seem now with the dark accessories and added greenery.

Remove old area carpets and add candles around the bath to create an inviting retreat.

Did you happen to notice the carpeted floors in this bathroom? It becomes less noticeable when a coat of paint

freshens the oak cabinets and some greenery adorns the space.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

PHOTO'S for ... I would be lying if I said I didn't loose sleep on this one.

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 13:24:30 -0700

GATEWAYS have opened ... Hooray! Hooray!

Here are the long awaited photographs (really just over night) to go with my earlier post 'I would be lying if I said I didn't loose sleep on this one'

This is main area (AFTER) as you enter the home. The WIDE open concept makes it difficult to hide anything.

BEFORE

Notice the Equestrian artwork, Chinese lamp and chairs and Italian marble table. With "a little vision" Home Harmony made it all come together the way the owner had intended ;o)

EXPERIENCING BAD GATEWAYS AGAIN !!!! this is it for now.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

I would be lying if I said I didn't loose sleep on this one.

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:48:29 -0700

Our story begins a few weeks ago when a local Realtor (we work with) asked if We (Michelle and I ) could meet her at a home she was about to list. "It's a somewhat unique" she says "It's got a certain style about it" ... but "they really need to de-clutter and need some direction to do so"

Bad Gateway (Photos to follow)

What she didn't mention was that the Kitchen is PINK and it was painted recently. The "certain style " was a mixture of beautiful Chinese art and artifacts, Italian furniture and Equestrian collectables (trophies and paintings) ... ALL sharing a common space! I would be lying if I said I didn't loose sleep over this one.

Bad Gateway (Photos to follow)

It took a little convincing ( A LOT really) to get the homeowners to paint over the kitchen. They didn't really like the colour I choose at first ( Hated it actually) but I think they understood the point we were trying to make. ( pink and peach don't sell)

Meeting with quite a bit of resistance we decided the best approach would be as a larger team ... in and out as quickly as possible ( yeah a QUICK AND PAINLESS 4 hours) We knew (more or less) what our plan of attack would be and Michelle King, Louise Garai and myself went straight to work. We make it a habit to brainstorm over the photos a few days before so we have a better idea going in.

Bad Gateway (photos to follow)

All in all it went really well. It wasn't worth loosing sleep over. The homeowners were very happy ( seemed to be smiling or maybe snarling ) Looking around they could SEE what it was that we could "SEE" as Stagers. The realization that working with their belongings we had created a beautiful inviting space that would appeal to potential buyers.

That afternoon the Realtor had booked 3 appointments ... the house was previously on the market 2 years. Now we wait and see.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Instant Ambience ... and budget friendly too!

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:06:02 -0700

Here's a simple project or gift idea that can be made in minutes. Everything you'll need can be found in your local $ store.

Super for a patio parties, hot tub gatherings, dressing up the picnic table or lining a walkway for an outdoor event.

YOU'RE GONNA LOVE IT!

YOU WILL NEED:

1 or more vigil candles ( found at the $ store and always in stock)

1 or more Bamboo place mats

and some Raffia string ( also from the $ store)

HOW TO:

Wrap the bamboo place mat around the candle and tie with the raffia string. If you want to be a little more creative add flowers, cinnamon sticks, mini umbrellas and PRESTO INSTANT AMBIENCE for any party !

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Overcoming Stage-r Fright

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 23:41:42 -0700

Here is a blog posted by Connie Tebyani I think every Realtor should read. It may make the difference in how you conduct business in the future.

Home Harmony has been fortunate to partner with some Realtors in the Montreal area. The audience (homeowner) seems to be very receptive when the lines (recommendations) are delivered by the understudy (Home Stager) and the "REAL STAR" (Realtor) of the show is the Realtor for giving the audience (homeowner) such a wonderful gift! It's a standing ovation every time!

HOME HARMONY - HOME STAGERS & ORGANIZERS IN THE MONTREAL AREA.

CALL TODAY and see how we can make you the RISING STAR OF REALTY !

Via Connie Tebyani, Platinum Home Staging Los Angeles and Ventura County (Platinum Home Staging, Inc. : RESA-Pro):

Recently I had a very frank phone call with a local Realtor Friend whom does a large volume in our area and we often "bounce" ideas off each other in regards to business, marketing, blogging, etc. Even though we speak frequently, I asked him point blank during the conversation, "Since you know all the benefits of my Industry (Home Staging) why is it that you've never used one?" His reply was simply, "...because some Home Owners get offended when you tell them their house looks like cr*p."

We both shared a good laugh but this was an "ah-HA!" moment for me. Here was a Realtor who BELIEVES that presenting a home properly is imperative, who KNOWS the benefits of Home Staging, who even WANTS to get all his listings staged, even if only to declutter - he just needed some help in the delivery.

To help him, and the rest of the Realtors who might be suffering from Stage-r Fright; here are some problem solving sollutions to ensure you are in the spotlight and on cue.

The Casting Call: Make them want you as their Leading "Actor" (Realtor) from the very first casting call (Interview). You've come with your marketing plan, your script if you will, and you're ready to knock their socks off with all the things that you will do to make their home a block-buster.

Called to Read: By letting them know up-front in the first meeting that Home Staging IS a service that you provide, they will ALREADY BE OPEN to the idea of a Stager coming into their home, and will actually expect it! By adding the services of a Professional Home Stager to your repartee you will stand out immediately as being up-to-date in marketing. You are immediately setting the Stage that your Home Stager will come in, spend time with them and walk them through their house with an unbiased view about how their home, in it's current state, will be perceived and viewed by potential Buyers.

The Call Back: They want YOU as their Leading Actor/Actress; you've landed the listing - er Lead Role - you're ready to hit your mark, but before you've memorized your lines, THIS is when you call your Home Stager and ask them to be your support when going into rehearsals.

Curtain Call: TELL your Stager about the project, TELL your Stager about the Audience (Home Owners) make them your PARTNER (or "bad guy") in the story line of what YOU need to have addressed. (e.g. too much clutter, pet odors, wall paper, lighting/upgrades, etc.) Let the Stager take the role of Supporting Actor on YOUR stage.

The Professional Home Stager will dance through the home with your Home Owners, singing a happy tune about what/where/how the home will be able to be presented in it's best possible "spot" light. Well, maybe not dance, but you get the idea. Going from room-to-room, Act 1, 2, 3 (and maybe 4 or 5) the Home Stager will allow you to still be the Staring role but support your every move. From a simple walk through to de-clutter and packing to completely furnishing an empty stage (home) the Experienced Stager will be able to talk with your Home Owner about:

WHY their floral wall paper and country quilt should probably be adjusted and new bedding purchased.

About WHY their zebra striped rug and cheetah sofa probably would not show well in the Internet marketing photography.

About WHY it would be better that their collection of dolls from around the world would only be a major distraction for any young child who might be present with their parents while touring this lovely family home (and might get damaged/stolen in the process)

ENCORE! ENCORE!: OK, your Sellers might not literally shower you in rose petals - but what they will believe is that you are a STAR and your performance was Oscar Worthy. They will REFER YOU to all their family and friends, co-workers and neighbors.

The gist of this post is that by partnering with a Professional and Experienced Home Stager in your area you will be adding a vital key component to your Team and allows for the Stager to be able to correctly approach delicate subjects that maybe you are not comfortable in addressing directly yourself; without up-staging you.

If you are an Agent, Realtor or Broker in the Los Angeles or Ventura County areas, call Platinum Home Staging, Inc. ~ We'll make sure your Seller's HOME is ready for it's "close up". If outside of Southern CA, check the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) website for qualified referrals in your area.

Connie Tebyani

Principal Designer / Owner Platinum Home Staging, Inc.

www.PlatinumHomeStaging.com

(805) 553~9952

Preferred Interior Designer for Pottery Barn

Member of the Real Estate Staging Association

W ar

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

CLEAR (shock em') ______ BE EEEE EP _ _ _ VWVWVWVWVW

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 21:08:38 -0700

WE GOT HIM JUST IN TIME .... Home Harmony recently rescued this homeowner TRAPPED in the 1970's.

Totally original right down to the wall mural, (ROGER your gonna love it, TOILE comes to mind ;o) )

Although we were not able to put all our suggestions into action we managed to add a little life to this room and more importantly to this older couple.

In a few short hours Home Harmony REVIVED this home on a limited budget. The funny thing is, they (in great shape in their early 70's) were not enthusiastic about changing any of it ... but the day of staging once they started to see the changes we were making, the Lady owner started pulling all kinds of things out of storage for us to work with. "The bedding was going to be used when they painted the master" ... not sure when that will be but we used it to try and tone down the pink walls. (stay tuned for more photos)

The day after the staging I got a phone call from the Realtor, the homeowner was requesting the paint colours I had suggested for the kitchen. Seems as though HOME HARMONY has given this home owner a new lease on life! Not only is he removing the wallpaper boarder and painting the cupboards and walls he plans to add a back-splash too!

2 days later the Realtor calls me again asking " Liz you've got to talk to him, He wants to put wainscoting in the kitchen too! " After some good reasoning as to why not too he agreed to focus on some of the smaller projects we discussed that would make a greater inpact than the wainscotting.

There' s no stopping this man now ... He's got the heart of a 30 year old ;o)

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

New Servers Coming Online Monday Night, April 26th, (Site Will be down from 11pm-3am)

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 13:20:57 -0700

I'm sure if you are an regular to ActiveRain, as I am , you have noticed now increasingly difficult it has been to login in, create blogs (with photos) or even leave blog comments on articles of interest.

Well, the good people of ActiveRain are doing something to resolve the matter. As you will see below there will be an interruption in service tonight as they work to install new servers.

I believe, since I became a member ( 1 year ago? ) ActiveRain has grown by 50, 000 additional members. Now that's truly amazing! I spread the word to everyone I know (agents and fellow stagers ) about how wonderful this forum is and how it is a valued tool. There hasn't been a single instance where a question posted has gone unanswered or unsolved. ACTIVERAIN and it's members are GREAT!

Hats off to YOU, the staff of ACTIVERAIN, for making this possible.

IT"S TIME TO CELEBRATE!

I REALLY look forward to the new and improved ActiveRain!

Via Bob Stewart - ActiveRain (ActiveRain):

We will be bringing the new servers completely online Monday night, April 26th. This will include four hours where the site will be down. Starting at 11pm Pacific Time and running through 3am Pacific Time you will not be able to access ActiveRain.

After that, things should be functioning MUCH better. We really appreciate the patience everyone has shown these last few weeks. No one has higher expectations of ActiveRain than we do and we are very much looking forward to having the proxy errors behind us.

Thank you everyone for hanging in there with us and (mostly) taking it easy on us as we worked to resolve those pesky proxy errors and bad gateways.

Friends, followers, and connections are the way of the future.

Make sure you check out some of our Facebook Fan Pages Too!

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

I'm telling the truth ... Part 2 with more photos.

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 11:25:27 -0700

As I had mentioned in my post last night, I was experiencing a few glitches with the ActiveRain site, so here I am this morning to follow up with a few additional photos from the lovely home we worked in this week.

Not all home owners have the luxury of moving just for the sake of moving. In this particular case, although the senior is less senior and more "boomer" than some we have worked with, she is putting a plan into place for her handicapped adult son. She wants to be sure he is close to family and has goods roots in the town if something should happen to her. Not an easy decision I am sure to up root oneself from years in a community but one that must be taken to unsure her son security when she is no longer there to look after him.

I am happy that Home Harmony was able to lessen the burden of this homeowner in a small way. By not having to show the house repeatedly over what could be months, this homeowner can now put her focus on where they are going to relocate to and get settled more quickly.

I LOVE what I do ... it's not just about moving furniture it's about MOVING people and making a real difference in someones life.

Although, we would have loved to remove the border around the kitchen, Home Harmony is able to work around these limitations when needed and put the focus on other parts of the room. We were able to reposition the island and create a better flow around the kitchen and into the dinning area.

Small changes can make a HUGE difference in the flow and openness in a home. It's easy to see how much space there really is now that Home Harmony moved some things around.

As MICHELLE KING writes in her blog BEDPLACEMENT ... What a difference a few feet can make.

by reposistioning the hopechest we are able to free some space up around the room. You will also notice we changed the art above the bed to something we found in the entrance. The art that was previously in the room was harsh less suited to the calm feel of the room.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

I'm telling the truth ... I swear.

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 23:35:57 -0700

This is the third home is as many weeks that we have staged for a senior.

This home had solid bones, well maintained property and house. It had lovely furniture, art, and things we could really work with. The owner, was very open to the idea of staging, which is often the biggest battle when staging any home.

Well, we went in on Tuesday afternoon and in just 4 hours myself, Louise Garai and our assistant Lori, had completed this 4 bedroom home.

Wednesday morning the photographer took the photos and by Wednesday afternoon the agent had the listing posted ...

Now this is the part where I SWEAR I am telling the truth ... we got an email from the agent yesterday stating that the 1st first visitor to the house on Thursday has made an offer!

The right combination of price, location, photos and of course staging can accelerate the sale of a property.

Home Harmony is happy to be part of this agents stats!

Experiencing some ActiveRain glitches ... will post some more photos tomorrow.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Redesign - lands firm offer for 76 year old in just a weekend! Before + After's

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 08:11:35 -0700

Unlike the last senior client we had, this elderly gentleman was enthusiastic about what we were about to do.

Living alone with the occasional weekend visit from his handicap son he was ready to downsize into a smaller home and was prepared to do whatever it would take to get his current home ready to sell. He had declutter a few key places within the home that required him to sift through papers, photos etc, so it allowed Home Harmony's team to move quickly though the entire house in just a 1/2 day staging.

All the while we were staging the upper floor of this traditional split level, classical music played in the background. The sun shone brightly through the large windows and we occasional caught a glimpse of waterfront from the rear windows ... it was very pleasant.

While staging the gentelman would pop into the doorway of the room we were working in to see how we were doing. By the end he would show up with articles he thought apporiate for that room ... it was really cute.

We started and finished this project with 4 hours on a Friday and by Monday morning we were informaed that the home was SOLD!

Home Harmony understands it is not always easy for seniors to make the decission to downsize or relocate to a smaller home, condo or residence. Often family members are not available or living close enough to allow it. Home Harmony's team takes care of seniors in the Montreal area with the patience and understanding to guide and assist you though your move. Remember ... Harmony is our middle name.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Redesign - gets 82 year old her price in just 3 days! B & A's

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 22:10:21 -0700

Despite meeting with some resistance, Home Harmony was able to preform a little redesign magic and win over it's 82 year old homeowner.

The owners daughter had talked to her about all the things we might do to change her home. The agent, having worked with us many times, told the owner she placed her full confidence in us but despite everyones efforts we still had a little trouble getting our way. So as good stagers do ... we worked within our limits and still delivered.

The owner wanted nothing to do with us making "more holes" in the walls. Even though we told her they would not show (we would hang the pictures to cover them) we were still not permitted to lower the artwork. So, we went to work doing what we do to make things as perfect as possible. She would follow us around through the home and sometimes questioning our decisions but all in all at the end of our day she was very pleased with the outcome.

Best of all, an acceptable offer came in within 3 days of our staging! Now our "new friend" has promised to share her experience with other seniors in the community which I am sure will help reassure others having to do the same in the near future and ensure us some more senior clients.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

ALL ABOARD, fast track to SOLDcity!

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 18:52:17 -0700

Have you been TOOTING YOUR OWN HORN?

If you are anything like us, you have probably done tons of promotional emails, trade shows, WALKED (the line) in and out of every Realtors office in a 200km radius, provided company/country stats, shown books full of before and afters, have testimonials from real people who swear staging was their TICKET ( to a speedy sale) and despite being DERAILED every now and again, you vow to continue till you have converted everyone on the WRONG SIDE of THE TRACKS. Am I right?

It is beyond me why some homeowners and Realtors still have TUNNEL VISION? So many seem to have a one-track mind and will do everything but stage. Do they really see it as wasted money? How about the 1000's Realtors spend on advertising or the 10's of thousands homeowners spent the first time they reduce their listing price? STAGING is the LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL ... why can't they see it?

I'm not sure what it will take to convince those who have not yet boarded the staging train but I'll keep chugging along and one by one converting all the non-believers!

I'm done BLOWING OFF SOME STEAM now FULL STEAM AHEAD STAGERS (WE WHO USE BELLS AND WHISTLES) to take those willing to SOLDcity!

Realtors and Home owners of the Greater Montreal Area give us a call. We will help you sell your home quicker and for a fraction of the cost you are spending to advertise. Specialist in re-design, organizing and Home Staging.

Conseillères en Home Staging / Home Staging Consultants

Harmonie au Foyer Home Harmony

Cell: 514-927-0700

Bureau: 514-928-0080

www.HarmonieAuFoyer.ca

www.HomeHarmony.ca

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Coming off a sugar high ... SWEET!

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:37:39 -0700

I hope everyone enjoyed their Easter holidays with family and friends. I am so fortunate to have family and friends that are like friends and family to be able to combine such holidays and spend time with all that are near and dear to me.

Living in the country is a wonderful place to celebrate Easter and the fact that we have the largest and probably most famous Sugar House ( www..sucreriedelamontagne.com ) in all of Quebec located within walking distance of our home just makes it ideal.

Everyone gathers at the house and we set out with strollers and on foot to walk approximately the 2 km it takes to get there. It's hardy enough to work up an appetite but it gives us a chance to catch up and do a little bonding.

There are traditional "French Canadian" folk songs preformed (fiddle, flute, gituar and spoons) while we enjoy the huge spread. Starting with pea soup and homemade bread we begin our feast. Next comes the egg souffle, ham, sausages, bacon, garlic mashed potatoes and tortiere (meat pie).

At about the time you think you may explode the pancakes and sugar pie arrive with coffee and tea! Well, if you haven't had enough sugar by then the next stop is is the boiling room where there is an endless supply of maple taffy.

The entire experience last about 3 hours when we waddle our way back home. Depending on the weather there might be a snowball fight out back, a game of football or a round or two of cards before we bring out the desserts! YES, more food.

Well, I can't help wonder why I feel as sluggish as I do today ... think all that chocolate and maple syrup is finally wearing off. Yup ... thinking I'm start to crash and burn right about now!

If ever you find yourself visiting Quebec I would strongly suggest you visit. It's open year round and you won't be disappointed you made the drive.

This is my neighbor Pierre Faucher owner of Sucrerie Du La Montange.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging

Wall murals a thing of the past or the furture of home staging ?

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 19:59:43 -0700

Home Harmony's girls took a well deserved day off today. We decided, being home stagers, that we should take in the Montreal Home Show (www.salonnationalhabitation.com) and stay on top of trends and find possible solutions for staging dilemmas we may encounter in the future.

The cost $15, a little steep for what I felt I got out of it. There were far too many central vacuum, roofing and brick distributors. There were however some beautiful bathroom and kitchens and hot tub displays. Not enough furniture companies for my liking and there were no stagers present. ( thought there would be at least one on hand)

If your building or renovating your home I am certain you will find what you are looking for ... with a choice to compare pricing.

What I did see, much to my surprise, the return of wall murals. Beautiful, larger than life settings that were very captivating and convincing. The website is www.muralunique.com

I have included a few that I thought were very nice ... very detailed and quality productions. Check them out and let me know what you think.

Wall Murals a thing of the past ? ... or is this the future for home staging.

The detail in the hockey locker-room scene was just amazing. It looked as though it had been painted on canvas and put on the wall ... very impressive.

Liz Gallagher

LG Home Harmony - Montreal Home Staging