Not Your PlanO Blog!

Selling a house in a difficult location? Can home staging help?

2008-07-24T21:12:24Z

Selling a house in a difficult location?

Have you considered other ways to market the property besides reducing the price?

While we cannot change the location of a property we can improve the appeal to buyers if the property is indeed in good condition.

There are always buyers looking in certain locations & neighborhoods (obviously this seller/possibly you purchased the property) and the area your property is located and listed will be one of them.

If however there are more problems with the property than the location, for example;

perhaps it is very dated outside/inside
it lacks good curb appeal
furnishings and decor reflect too personal of a choice
the property needs upgrades compared to the comps in the neighborhood
the house has foundation or roof issues or other major areas of concern

I would, at the very minimum, recommend a home staging consultation (and even a pre-list home inspection for the major areas of concern) and suggest to invest your dollars on improvements to address problem areas of the home (if any). A professional home stager can provide you with a cost effective report to show you where best to invest your money for selling your property.

Home Staging isn't about covering up flaws or defects but enhancing the home's best features.

Home staging for any location is a wise investment.

Proudly serving Collin County and North Dallas Realtors, Sellers & Investors, Home Star Staging is here for you North Texas!

"The Stagers" on HGTV - My quick review

2008-07-20T22:09:17Z

Just finished watching "The Stagers" on HGTV and wanted to give a quick review on what I must say was a pretty fair representation of what we do and go through as professional home stagers although for many of us, on a much smaller scale. I don't know how many of you work on properties in the price point of the home featured in tonight's premiere episode - almost $5 million!

Before watching I was apprehensive about how staging would be represented.

Was this show going to be another show leaving our clients asking us why we couldn't do that for "under $1,000?"
Was it going to be more about the "stuff" over the house?
Were the stagers going to be drama queens/kings?

A little, but understandably in the home featured, it was worth a small fortune and the furnishings and decor needed to reflect that.

What I especially liked about it was the portrayal of the "stagers" as truly focused on what would work in the space- they didn't over do it and they well could have in this situation. Every room was tastefully done with a collaboration by two professional stagers (& an understanding, calm patient assistant) who had not met prior (although how do you work for the same company and not know each other was one question I had - is the company that huge? - it may be considering the warehouse and free reign in spending on art work showcased in the space). Also the uncertainty at times of what would actually work in the space once they got it all there was spot on so true. That was great! Showing them bouncing ideas off one another, setting the scene at the warehouse, talking, strategizing, feeling great when it all comes together - that is so staging!

Staging is fluid, not stagnant it goes with the flow and the "synergy" of the team working on the job. Things and plans can change.

I LOVED when the home owners came by (not that I like it when I'm working because I so understand how that's the WORST time to have them there!) It's hard to be questioned when we ourselves question our own work until we feel it's right - having a client second guess while in the middle of a job is often mind blowing. While not as drastic it's kind of like interrupting a surgeon in the middle of open heart surgery saying there's too much blood there, how can you see what you're doing?

In the end, as the transformation was revealed room by room and the final budget was shown, I was impressed that a true dollar figure was shown. For an almost $5 million dollar property the staging budget was just under 1% of the list price of the house. The house did not sell for the asking price (less)and the days on market were not mentioned.

As the home owner put it, the staging was to be the "icing on his cake" and Matthew and Jay whipped up a mighty sweet ending .

I'm looking forward to more episodes. My hope is that they'll also feature homes in all price points as well. While multi million dollar homes are great, there are so many other houses in all price points that deserve the same amount of attention.

Please feel free to share your take on it!

Home Staging Tip: Fresh look for kitchen window treatment and it's under $5

2008-07-17T13:52:17Z

Want to freshen the look of a dated or worn window treatment in your kitchen? It's really simple!

Purchase color coordinated cotton napkins that work with the colors of your kitchen.I found the ones in the photo at Pier 1 on sale for around $1.28 each.
Remove old window treatment
Fold napkins on a diagonal over the tension rod. For this window only 3 napkins were necessary.

They instantly updated the look of the window for a fraction of the cost of window treatments.

Old window treatment (over the sink)

Window treatment after

Window treatment after (another angle)

For added color & coordination use additional napkins in the same pattern/color to accent other parts of the kitchen.

I not only live in Collin County, TX I also work to serve those of you who do as well .

Proudly serving Collin County and North Dallas Realtors, Sellers & Investors, Home Star Staging is here for you North Texas!

How a Home Stager choose the new color on her own front door

2008-07-17T09:32:04Z

This summer we've been doing some improvements on our own house. It had been about 6 years since we did the last major improvements and we were ready to tackle a few more. As a professional home stager I understand the value of improving ones home before even thinking about selling. Far too often I see sellers who wished they'd done for themselves what they've improved for others when in the process of selling.

For the other home improvements we've done this summer you can read the blog: Sellers, I feel your pain.

Well we needed to paint our front door, desperately! It was the original "stain" from 14 years prior when the house was built. It was in pretty decent shape when we bought the house almost 7 years ago but 7 more years had taken it's toll. Unfortunately I do not have a good "before" photo of what the door looked like but it can be described as a "well weathered" wood look.

Texas heat and the elements (strong winds, hail storms, ice at times) are brutal on the exteriors of a house here in North Texas. From decks to doors, we need to frequently treat, stain or replace items for the wear and tear. I don't know about you, but I'd rather treat something than have to replace it.

Our backyard fencing and deck are something that we've maintained every 3rd year and I'd highly recommend if you live in dry conditions like here in Texas, taking care of those expensive wood decks and fences rather than having to replace them. If you can avoid it is so much less costly! Prevention is the best cure.

I often make recommendations to clients about their front doors.

Here are some options:

Generally if they have the same color as the door currently is (and it's a nice pleasant one) a simple recommendation is to repaint a fresh coat of the same color.
If wood, sand and re stain for a cost effective option
If the door is in really bad shape, replace
Changing hardware is also another great way to update the look of your front door

Now our door was wood, natural in color with a stain that had seen much better days. We decided to go for a new color.

In choosing our own front door color we did the following:

We zeroed in on our brick exterior as a base from which we'd choose our color (not a bad idea for anyone selling either, whether your home is painted or brick, choosing a color that enhances the color of your home and draws your eye towards the door is always a good choice)
An ornamental tree, a Japanese Maple, that sits outside our dining room window was also another inspiration with its deep burgundy color leaves in the fall
Took paint samples (the little paper ones you can get anywhere paint is sold) of colors we thought we'd like and brought them back to the house and literally taped them on the door near the brick. That really helped us choose what colors worked and what didn't.
Checked out the paint colors at different times of the day. Light changes color and that was something we wanted to see.
Found our color. It was a great mix of all the colors represented in our varied brick tones. (In case you're wondering it's called Cinnamon Cherry from Behr)

We also did replace the hardware on the front door as well as all exterior doors in the rest of the house to keep them consistent.

Painting for many people is a dreaded chore however it gives you the biggest bang for your buck and a little sweat equity pays high dividends. For us, it makes us happy to come up to the door each day with a warm welcoming color to greet us and our visitors.

Hope this helps if you've been thinking about painting your own front door!

I not only proudly live in Collin County, TX I also work to serve those of you who do as well .

Proudly serving Collin County and North Dallas Realtors, Sellers & Investors, Home Star Staging is here for you North Texas!

Open House 1:00 - 4:00 PM PM Sunday 7/20/08 740 Mustang Ridge Drive, Murphy, TX FREE Staging Tips

2008-07-14T16:14:41Z

It's a "Neighborhood Open House"

Join Sarah Nguyen of Janus Real Estate Group and myself, Karen Otto of Home Star Staging at

740 Mustang Ridge Drive, Murphy, TX, 75094
When: Sunday, July 20, 2008
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 PM

It's a neighborhood open house and our friends and neighbors here at Active Rain and Localism are invited.

Please tell your clients, friends and family if they're looking for a gorgeus spacious home in beautiful Murphy, TX, this may be the one!

For all the great details visit the Realtor.com link for 740 Mustang Ridge Drive, Murphy, TX.

I'll be on hand after 2 PM to answer any questions you may have about home staging as well as tips on how to do it yourself or help your clients!

If you're in the neighborhood, drop in and say hi!

Realtor.com link for 740 Mustang Ridge Drive, Murphy, TX.

Hope too see you!

Proudly serving Collin County and North Dallas Realtors, Sellers & Investors, Home Star Staging is here for you North Texas!

Collin College Offers Home Staging CE Course for Sellers & Realtors 8/18-27

2008-07-06T19:42:23Z

Real estate professional? Selling a home? Or just interested in learning more about Home Staging?

Check out the schedule of Continuing Education courses offerings at Collin College

Home Staging is a course that is;

"Designed for the home owner or the professional real estate agent to prepare a home for resale. Learn the benefits of home staging and how staging a property for resale can help you achieve a faster sales time and top dollar".

Collin County Professional Home Stager, Karen Otto shares her expertise and knowledge of Home Staging bringing it to home sellers, Realtors and Investors who want to know how Home Staging can help them achieve a faster sales time and top dollar.

Check out the list of Continuing Education course offerings for more information and registration.

If you received a May - August 2008 class schedule as a resident of Collin County the course number is listed on page 6 of your booklet.

For those outside of Collin County, please refer to course number:

08D.RELE1091.021 Date 8/18-8/27 MW 6:30 - 8:30 4 Sessions at the Court Yard Center or go here to register online for Home Staging.

Forbes Magazine Ranks Collin County as a Great Place to Live

2008-07-06T10:29:01Z

The Sunday, July 6th Dallas Morning News reports that Forbes magazine has ranked Collin County, TX one of the best places to live in the US!

According to the article, Collin County was the ONLY county in the State of Texas to make the list.

WAY TO GO COLLIN COUNTY!

To read the full article by columnist Ed Housewright (great name for a Real Estate Professional if he is one) read it here.

As a citizen of Collin County who not only lives here but works here as well, I must say I agree. While the article goes into some thoughts of others who don't live in our great county, I for one do and know the benefits we are afforded. Having grown up and lived in Miami-Dade county for the better part of 30 years and just returned from a visit to the "urban" metropolitan city of Miami, I am so appreciative of the quality of life that Collin County has afforded my family.

We live in the multicultural, diverse City of Plano, a big city with a small town feel if you look for it. I love our area and couldn't think of a better place to call home.

As real estate professionals serving Collin County, TX we should embrace this honor and help our clients understand the value of what we too see here.

Congratulations Collin County! I'm proud to live and work here!

Sellers, I feel your pain

2008-07-05T23:41:30Z

Let me first say, we are not moving. At least not this month. But we are re carpeting our 2nd floor and replacing our white wooden stair balusters for our enjoyment as well as the future return on investment.

Why did we really want to do this?

Heck, we want to enjoy the upgrades now while we live in it! As a professional home stager, I have seen far too many sellers upgrade to sell and wish they'd done it years ago for their own use once they see how great it looks.

But sellers, I feel your pain!

When it's highly recommended to replace your carpet by a professional home stager or your Realtor (or just know you need to do it) and say "I'll just give the buyers a carpet allowance", I understand why.

It is quite a job to replace carpet while living in a home. I know, I've done it.

But it's also quite a job for a buyer to move in to a home and have to replace the carpet once they're in. Consider your inconvenience as doubly theirs and why many buyers choose to move on to another newly carpeted property when they hear "allowance"in yours.

The work involved in moving and storing items while in the process of re-carpeting (or laying any flooring for that matter) can seem overwhelming(especially from upstairs). Although the carpet installers will move the large furniture it's up to you to relocate and move everything from the tops of dressers, closets and whatever else may get in their way, break or become too much for them to have to deal with.

And then... after all that... you have to put it back! (Unless you really are selling and then you can pack it away in the garage or move it off site to storage. You'll be way ahead of the game!)

But there is a silver lining. You finally get to the closet cholesterol that has been accumulating for years and may decide once and for all to get rid of it.

We're still, after 2 months getting rid of stuff, in fact, we declared this 4th of July - Independence Day from our junk! (well alot of it anyway)

A little background....For the past several years my husband and I have talked about replacing our upstairs carpeting. We'd already replaced all of our downstairs carpet with wood and tile when we first moved in 6 + years ago but not the upstairs carpeting. With 2 kids and a dog and countless trips up and down the stairs by friends, relations and various animals (from birds to dogs we've housed for friends on vacation... don't even ask what some of these "house trained" pets have done to my house...) the carpet was to say the least "well worn". We decided this summer to replace our carpet and enjoy it while we can.

But.... that's not all.

While checking out craigslist for a client who needed some furniture at a discount I came across a company that replaced wooden stair balusters with wrought iron balusters. Coincidentally, I had a client who had asked me about the cost of replacing his and I truly had no idea at the time nor did I know the return on investment to do this. Well, I researched further the company and the cost. Turns out this is a popular item with new homes. I've seen them myself and worked in newer homes which have this upgrade.

Well we decided to install them in our home as well, why not? We loved the look, the price was great, and we were replacing our carpet anyway and I knew it would be a good investment for the future. I have to say, the company we worked with Grandstairways was awesome and totally professional. If you're in North Texas and considering this upgrade, contact Alex Kaiser. He's a man of his word and their prices are about 1/3 of what others are charging.

After a couple of months of milling over carpet selections (had to think long term, wear, color, "green" factor and padding choices too) we made our choice.

Now if you don't already know about carpet, go out and shop for some if you're in the market for it and you'll learn lots from the reps at each carpet store.

Some basic things to consider when choosing a carpet:

If you have a pet with claws don't opt for "loop" carpet entirely. Their claws will catch the loops and they will pull and fray.
For homes with pets, a "cut" pile will work as will a combo of "loop and cut pile". Simply cut the loops that get frayed and they'll match the cut pile nicely.
Consider the long term if you're not selling. Since you are still living in and using the carpeting, don't go for the lowest grade cheap stuff unless you plan on replacing it when you sell. You want it to last for a while in case you sell in the next several years.
Think about the carpet color you choose. High usage areas will get worn and dirty. Don't go for white or very light in those areas unless you are meticulously clean, wear booties at all times and have no pets or kids traipsing through your home on a regular basis.
Again with color, if you plan to stay in your home for a while and want to really get personality injected into your carpet choice - go ahead. But when thinking about long term use and resale, opt for colors that will be universally buyer friendly. We chose a color in the "cashew" family.
We opted for the upgraded padding with a moisture barrier. Not only does it make the carpet feel plusher, spills don't soak into the pad and "reappear" over time. The barrier acts as a protective shield to ward away those magically reappearing stains.
Green is clean and consumer friendly, something I believe most people are looking for now and in the future. The carpet we chose was from Mohawk. It's called SmartStrand and it's partially made from recycled materials. Check the link for more information.
I was also reminded today in fact that most carpeting is petroleum based and very soon the price of it will also increase. Keep that in mind if you've been on the fence about replacing yours and consider alternatives if you've got your eye on other flooring surfaces (wood, bamboo, stone, tile)

Now that I'm at the end of the most recent upgrades the work was definitely worth it.

Sellers, many Professional Home Stagers are homeowners too. We understand what's involved in owning a home and we understand what it takes to help you prepare your home to sell too. We feel your pain but in the end the real goal is financial gain!

Proudly serving Collin County and North Dallas Realtors, Sellers & Investors, Home Star Staging is here for you North Texas!

Plano Crimewatch Bulletin - Aggravated Kidnapping

2008-06-07T18:19:28Z

I am the block captain for my Neighborhood Crimewatch in Plano. Whenever there are alerts sent to our area coordinator it is our duty to notify the neighbors on our crimewatch block about the offense. I do this via email.

Situations that are reported through these bulletins happen all over the city of Plano not just in the neighborhood you live and unless you are part of a Citizen's Crimewatch in your neighborhood you would not necessarily receive this information.

I highly recommend if your block does not have a Neighborhood Crimewatch Alert system to get on board with it and meet your neighbors to help take a bite of crime in your neighborhood.

This can be done in any city in Collin County or around the country!

Being a part of the Citizen's Crimewatch has made our block & several additional ones come together once a year to socialize and have an officer present to help us understand how to better protect ourselves, families and possessions. We also know each other too by name and face which makes it easier to bond. It's not a huge committment on anyone's part. I literally just forward emails that come from the Area Coordinator on to the neighbors who have given me their emails and want to receive these bulletins.

Another thing, from my understanding, things that happen where no suspect is identified (like a break in a car at night, or vandalism etc. that no one saw someone to give a description to Police to) do NOT get reported through our Crime Watch Bulletins. This is where the Neighborhood Watch becomes personal. When something happens in our direct neighborhood & Plano PD does not issue a bulletin (because no suspect was identified) we report it to each other.

This particular offense below strikes close to me as it is literally across the street from my storage facility where I recently had my own incident that was a big wake up call. I am going to begin to post these bulletins here from time to time. Not to strike fear in the hearts of my fellow residents of the City of Plano, but to make you aware of situations that are happening in and around our All American City. Our city is populated by over 250,000 residents and still growing. Criminals are in every city in every part of the world. Information is power and ignorance is IMHO dangerous when we fall prey to blind trust in our safety.

Please stay alert out there, not only for yourself but those around you.

CRIME WATCH BULLETIN

PLANO POLICE DEPARTMENT

The following event was reported to the Plano Police Department.

OFFENSE NUMBER: 2008-101506

OFFENSE TYPE: Aggravated Kidnapping

LOCATION/STREET: E. Parker Rd. (E. Parker Rd.,/K Avenue, Mapsco 659J)

BLOCK NUMBER: 1200

DATE: 6/1/08 (Sunday) TIME: 10:30pm

DESCRIPTION: The victim parked her vehicle at a distance from her intended grocery store. The victim exited her vehicle to go into a grocery store and confronted by the suspect. The suspect produced a weapon and forced the victim back into her vehicle. The suspect forced the victim to drive northbound onto US Highway 75 and stop south of the Legacy Drive exit.

The suspect placed tape on the victim's mouth and attempted to sexually assault her. A struggle ensued. The victim gained control of the weapon and used it on the suspect. The suspect fled the vehicle and the victim drove away.

Citizens are reminded to continually be aware of their surroundings, observing any subjects that might be loitering around on foot or in vehicles. Park in well-lit areas and in close proximity to your intended destinations.

SUSPECT INFORMATION: Hispanic male, 20-25 years old, 5'9", 150 lbs., tattoo on right forearm, Mohawk hairstyle, wearing a black shirt and black pants.

VEHICLE INFORMATION: On foot.

CB/kr

If you have any information regarding suspicious persons or activity in your area, please call the Plano Police Department at (972) 424-5678.

Attention Area Coordinator: It is your responsibility to pass this information to your Block Captains.

A blog you have to read by a seller - "Selling ( & staging ) a house with kids"

2008-06-04T12:25:54Z

My Google Alerts had an interesting blog post in it this morning and I want to share the link here.

The blog is written by a seller who had their Realtor stage the listing.

She describes in really good (and humorous) detail the process and how it was to live like that for a very short time apparently. You'll see for yourself if you read the post Selling a house with kids

It is so spot on and true, especially when selling with children. However this family made the committment to sell and the results speak for themselves! Stagers and Realtors should read it!

If their Realtor is an agent in the Rain I'd love to say Congratulations on a job well done!

Plano East Theatre Welcomes New TMS Group for 2008-09

2008-05-28T20:44:40Z

Pictured below are the talented actors and actresses who comprise Plano East Senior High School's Award Winning Theatre Major Studies (TMS) Program. Under the direction of the exceptional, Lisa Hale, Theatre Director, and Zachary Elms, Technical Director, PESH TMS is a force to be reckoned with.

We look forward to another year of talented and entertaining performances! Please join us for professional caliber theatre in the fall of 08 and spring of 09!

Congratulations TMS students!

Do paint, staging and professional photography make a difference?

2008-05-18T09:04:23Z

Below are some photos of an owner staged property after receiving a home staging consultation from Home Star Staging.

Included in a home staging consultation are many, many recommendations. Below are just two of the following which highlight the purpose of this blog:

Paint recommendations
Furniture placement / arrangement suggestions

The owner could choose to do as much or as little as they wished. As is always the case in a home staging consultation by Home Star Staging, sellers will get honest, respectful feedback about what changes need to occur and how to showcase a property to appeal to the most number of buyers.

Staging has NOTHING to do with your personal choices or style, it's more about the presentation and "move in" ready conditions that today's buyers are looking for.

In many cases, sellers will say, "this doesn't feel like my home". To which we respond, "Good!" The way we live in a home is very different than the way we market and sell it.

The owners choose to do the following as well as have JRM Photography take the after photos for the MLS. Note: Their Realtor had already chosen to acquire the services of JRM Photography as part of the listing package.

Clearly just three recommendations have taken what the owner's already had and made it buyer ready.

Lightening and brightening with a paint choice they had already made for a good portion of the home unified the spaces
Furniture was rearranged and re located from other areas
The final touch was great photography by JRM Photography that gives buyers more depth and vision on the MLS as to the potential of the house. The photos invite them from the internet to come visit the property in person. When over 80% of buyers are first shopping the internet how could you NOT consider professional photography for the highest impact?

Proudly serving Collin County and North Dallas Realtors, Sellers & Investors, Home Star Staging is here for you North Texas!

What does $125 in North Texas get you for Home Staging?

2008-05-17T12:06:23Z

ALOT!

Home Staging does NOT have to be expensive.

Many Professional Home Stagers provide many levels of service at different price points. Budgets are always considered when I speak to my clients and I am well aware of being cost conscious especially in today's economy.

I'd like to share with you two testimonials I recently received from local Realtors® I've been working with. I started working with these Realtors® this year and they have committed to contacting me for a verbal home staging consultation for each of their new listings. For $125 and up to 2 hours, Home Star Staging provides this service to home sellers in North Texas.

Any home, in any price point can benefit from a home staging consultation. In my professional opinion this service should be considered a standard part of a Real Estate transaction, just like a home inspection has become after a home has an offer, a home staging consultation can be seen as the "aesthetic inspection" that can get offers on the table!

Home Staging does NOT have to be expensive.

As evidenced below, the value of a Home Staging Consultation far exceeds the investment.

For pro-active sellers who are motivated to do the necessary work to prepare their home for sale and with the guidance of a Professional Home Stager TARGET those areas that need addressing (no more guessing games), the results are amazing!

NORTH TEXAS REALTOR® TESTIMONIALS

"I have to tell you that the home you helped stage [verbal consultation] at Old Shepard Place in Plano had an offer in 2.5 days! The other home you staged hasn't been listed yet. But both clients were so satisfied with your suggestions & assistance that they commented they loved the way their homes felt after staging & promised to never go back to the clutter again."

C.Hahn, Realtor®, Coldwell Banker Plano, TX

"You have done an excellent, fabulous job on my listing. You probably provided 30-40 times of value, for the price I paid [verbal consultation]. You have exceeded my expectations by a great extent. I am going to utilize your services for all my professional and also, personal needs. For a person as skilled as you are, you have absolutely no airs, you are very flexible, friendly and personal which makes you wonderful to work with."

S. Chaparala, Realtor®, DFW Realties

Realtors® Home Staging Consultations are a great service to recommend to your sellers and set your listings apart from the competition!

Proudly serving Collin County and North Dallas Realtors®, Sellers and Investors Home Star Staging is here for you North Texas!

DFW Home Staging Professional's Spring Fling in Photos - Fundraiser, Fun & Friendship!

2008-05-01T11:36:14Z

Yesterday we had a great time at our annual DFW IAHSP Fundraiser.

Once again it was co-hosted by our valued and much appreciated business partner CORT Furniture Rental at their Inwood Showroom.

Kathy LaMarr, CORT Rep. extraordinaire & our local home stager supporter & innovator, once again out did herself.The food, showroom and tables-capes were great! Thank you Kathy for arranging that!

This once a year free event, is open to the public and benefits our Chapter's philanthropies. This year we have chosen Promise House as our project for World Wide Staging Service Week 2008.

So far we've raised close to $3,000 from the benefit!

All proceeds go to Promise House and the IAHSP Foundation which furthers the cause of other worthy organizations throughout the country.

It was great to see Lorrie Semler a fellow Active Rainer! We got a good chat in and shared a cookie (yes Lorrie, I ate the other half and then some....;-) We also put on the calendar a tentative date for an Active Rain gathering locally. Check out Lorrie's Blog for more info.

The Silent Auction Items were great. Here some of our DIRC Board and members checked out & won some of the items.

The food was really fantastic!For those that missed it, you could've eaten really well last night! Spicy meatballs, bow-tie pasta salad, mini stuffed potatoes, a mountain of chips and salsa, shrimp cocktails in cocktail glasses, mini canapes and tons of chocolate frosted brownies, chocolate chunk and to die for peanut butter cookies.

Thank you to all who attended! We truly appreciate your support!

Join us! DFW Home Staging Professionals host Spring Fling today Weds. April 30th, 2008

2008-04-30T11:48:53Z

Just a quick reminder to my fellow DFW RE colleagues that we'd love to see you at our annual fundraiser today to benefit our wonderful organizations.

Below are the details.

I'll be there all afternoon and if you're in the area, stop by, I'd love to say hi!

The Dallas Regional Chapter of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (DIRC) and the Forth Worth Regional Chapter of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (FWIRC) along with our valued business parter CORT Furniture Rental, are co-hosting a fundraising event for World Wide Staging Service Week 2008 benefiting our philanthropies.

Along with the IASHP Foundation, DIRC & FWIRC are also raising awareness and money to benefit Promise House, Dallas, TX.

The Mission of Promise House (from the Promise House website)

"The mission of Promise House is to stabilize and offer hope to youth and families in crisis through emergency shelter, crisis intervention, counseling, transitional living, street outreach, and education, all free of charge. Most of our clients come from the North Texas area and struggle with problems including homelessness, abuse, family problems, runaway behavior, drug/alcohol abuse, teen pregnancy, truancy, and delinquency.

Promise House is a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible charitable organization governed by a Board of Directors. It is licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services."

Please come support this event to; network, shop, enter a fabulous drawing, bid on the Silent Auction, eat and have a great time in support of a worthy cause!

Details below. Bring a friend or 6!

Cort Furniture Rental

www.cort.com

14215 Inwood Rd
Dallas, TX 75244
(972) 386-2981
Get directions

More information »

Curb appeal and blind dating = 2 of a kind

2008-04-27T21:04:04Z

Analogies are great. They help us understand why something that may not seem important to us at first glance really is. Let's use an analogy for curb appeal when selling your home and why it is so important to buyers.

Let's compare it to blind dating. Bear with this and you're likely to understand why.

Think of yourself as going on a blind date and the anticipation you feel before meeting that mysterious someone.

They sound great on the phone,
They looked attractive in a photo online
They were readily giving you lots of information about themselves via emails.

You're nervous but excited at the chance to meet that special person that you've already gotten to know a little about.

Could this be the person of your dreams, a soul mate, heck a partner for life? Or worse, they aren't who they said they were. The photo is really their best friend and everything they wrote in the email was made up or it's a Glamour Shot and the photographer caught their one and only best angle and major airbrushing was used!

You start to get nervous as you drive to your destination to meet this person. Scary thoughts are running through you head. You pull into the park where you've arranged to meet. You scan the area and see lots of people. You could leave now you tell yourself. There are joggers and Frisbee players, lots of normal looking people around and you begin to relax. It's not so bad, any one of these people could be your date and they all look pretty decent. Your blind date approaches wearing the green shirt they said they would be and whew! You're relieved, excited even is more like it. They're even better than you imagined and the sinking stomach feel has changed to butterflies and rainbows. This is going to be a great date after all!

OK, can you see now where this may be going? Let's put it in the context of a home buyer. Let's see where this blind date of sorts will lead this time.

The buyers have gotten the details for your home (their date)
They're now headed with anticipation to see the property (the house of their dreams maybe).
They've seen photos online and expectations are high (do they even have air brushing for houses?).
They drive through the neighborhood and see one house after another of beautifully manicured lawns and seasonal plantings. It is springtime and everything is in bloom.
They are happy with what they see in the neighborhood. Could this be the house of their dreams?
As they approach your home they start to get a sinking feeling.
How come this house doesn't have a manicured lawn and seasonal flowers? (they didn't know weeds could look like grass in a photo)
Why is that shutter hanging from the side window ?(the best angle must have been photographed)
How many kids and pets do these people have? (we didn't know you were married & lived with animals)
There's so much stuff on the lawn! (geez can't you clean up for company?)

How would you feel upon arriving at this house? Their decision may be made right then and there.

They tell the Realtor to drive away and never even step foot inside the home. The buyers flee before even giving it a chance. As surprising as it may seem this is something that does happen more often than you may think.

Curb appeal is the very first impression that a buyer will have upon previewing your property. Make it a lasting one.

Even people driving through a neighborhood may want to see a property based just on exterior curb appeal. Make sure you present the exterior of your property in just as good of condition as the inside of your home.

In some cases curb appeal can truly make or break the sale of a home.

Below are some helpful tips to give your home that butterfly and rainbow feel and make the best impression on the first date.

10 Tips for Top Notch Curb Appeal

Maintain regular watering, mowing, weeding and edging schedule
If grass is sparse consider re sodding areas as needed.
Keep trees and hedges trimmed away from the house (consult with an arborist for best time of year to prune mature trees). If you can't see the house you can't possibly sell it.
Freshly mulch all beds.
Seasonal flowers are always a welcome addition but keep in mind water restrictions in your area.
If house, shutters, siding or front door need repainting or repair do it. A fresh coat of paint says, "Look at me! I've been cared for!" and gives a good return on your investment.
Keep lawn art, toys and yard equipment out of site. Roll hoses up neatly.
Pressure wash roofs, walk/driveways and sidewalks if needed. Clean exterior and interior windows, screens and tracks as well.
Keep porch or entry way free and clear of unnecessary obstructions.
Invite buyers in with a welcoming wreath (nothing busy) and freshly potted plants on the porch (no more than 2 in uniform pots). A new door mat (not personalized) is also recommended

Think of curb appeal as a great lipstick, put it on well, kiss your buyers hello and leave a lasting first impression! You're sure to make a lasting impression on your first date with buyers....

Check out this blog along along other great ideas at www.energizedseller.com

Man dying of cancer - UPDATE on Matt Budge

2008-04-17T11:33:41Z

I received this email from Steve Buys today and with his permission am reposting it here as a follow up to the blog I wrote earlier, Man dying of cancer not let out of lease

Dear Friends of Matt Budge:

Many of you have expressed a continuing interest in the status of Matt Budge's lease. I apologize for not sending an update sooner, but I've been waiting until I had more definitive news to share. I thought that was going to happen more than a week ago, but communication with Western Rim/The Mansions has proven to be difficult and slow. At long last, I was able to finally have some meaningful dialogue with them and reach a resolution. Fortunately, they have agreed to waive most of the fees associated with the Budges having to terminate their lease four months early. To do so, the Budges will have to pay a $1630 "reletting" fee, a $50 carpet cleaning fee, and about $20 to replace one window blind. I was pleased that the cleaning/repair costs were so low, which they should have been given that the apartment was in great shape (particularly after members of the Budges' church cleaned the place from top to bottom). Still, I didn't know what to expect from the apartment management. After applying certain credits, the total "walk away" cost on the lease will be $1514.00, which is great news, particularly considering that the apartment complex orginally was saying it would cost nearly $9,000. Thanks to all of you for your part in helping to bring about this result. I know that many of you contacted the apartment management/ownership to urge them to release Matt from further financial obligations under the lease. I also feel to commend Western Rim/The Mansions for ultimately showing some compassion and generosity by agreeing to waive most of the fees. From a legal standpoint, they didn't have to do that. Naturally, I'm disappointed that they would not waive the reletting fee, particularly given that within about 3 or 4 days of the Budges giving notice of their intent to move, the apartment was already released with new tenants scheduled to move-in on May 1. Since the Budges are paid-up through April, that means that the company will not have missed a beat in receiving full rental income on that apartment. In light of the following language in the lease agreement, the reletting fee seems particularly unnecessary under the circumstances: "The reletting charge ... cover[s] only part of our damages; that is, our time, effort, and expense in finding and processing a replacement. These damages are uncertain and difficult to ascertain - particularly those relating to make ready, inconvenience, paperwork, advertising, showing apartments, utilities for showing, checking prospects, overhead, marketing costs, and locator-service fees." I would be surprised if the company incurred any of these costs.

You may be aware of the 98.7 KLUV Radio listener who offered to donate $9K to the Budges. Unfortunately, that did not ultimately materialize. I have been in regular contact with her and have kept her apprised of the status of the lease. She pledged to pay whatever was ultimately due on the lease and then to give the remainder of the $9K directly to the Budges for other medical/family expenses. She only asked that I provide a final statement from The Mansions confirming that the Budges were released from any further financial obligations under the lease. It is that final statement that I have been trying to get for the past couple of weeks so I could meet with the donor and make final payment arrangements. However, a couple days ago I received a voicemail message from the donor stating that she would no longer be able to help the Budges. She alluded to a health issue, but not much else was said in the voicemail. I have attempted to call her back to assure her that there are no hard feelings about her rescinded offer and to make sure she is okay. Thus far I've only been able to get her answering machine.

On the issue of donations, I've seen or heard reports to the effect that "donations are pouring in" for the Budges as a result of the media attention. There has certainly been a HUGE outpouring of support and love for the Budges (and a wide variety of other sentiments directed at The Mansions/Western Rim), but I don't think that has translated into any significant amount of monetary donations. It may be that some who were inclined to help in that way held back when they heard of the $9K donation. There's no way to know. Because there was no indication that that donation would ultimately fall through, I made no effort to have others standing by to help out under that scenario. When people have contacted me about helping, I've told them the lease expenses were handled and invited them to donate to Matt's medical expenses if they felt so inclined. There is a donation mechanism set-up on Matt's blogspot (matthewbudge.blogspot.com), and last I heard, a small number of donations had been made there. To the Budges, of course, this was never about receiving donations. They would have been content to remain anonymous and quietly do their best with the help of family and close friends.

Finally, let me convey some good news to you on Matt's medical front. He has just completed his second full round of chemotherapy and his liver (and other organs) continue to respond well to the treatment. This good response allows his doctors to continue to pursue an aggressive treatment plan. Matt has also gained back some of his lost weight. The Budges consider these to be small but mighty miracles in their lives and are so grateful for the thoughts, prayers, and well-wishes on their behalf. Anyone desiring more detailed updates on Matt's medical condition is welcome to visit the "updates" section of the blogspot noted above.

Thanks again to each of you for all you've done to help Matt and his family. It is appreciated more than you know.

--Steve Buys

South Collin County ReStore - Birthday Blow Out Sale 5 more days 1/2 off!

2008-04-16T18:42:26Z

If you haven't had a chance to visit the South Collin County ReStore- now's a great time to do it.

There are 5 days left in their birthday blow out sale and almost everything (with just a few exceptions) is 1/2 off and the stock changes daily.

I know I can never leave there without something in my car. Lighting, furniture, home decor, you name it they've got something and the staff are so friendly and helpful. Not only will you be getting a great deal but helping a great cause, Habitat for Humanity.

Here's the e-newsletter I got this week with some of the deals:

At Least 50% OFF (original price) EVERY Item in the ReStore (except Paint Supplies still at introductory pricing) Saturday 4/12 10am ENDS Sunday 4/20 at 5pm
Help Celebrate our 1st Birthday with a Blow-Out sale

Pictures-Paint-Books-Microwaves-Records-Stereos-Speakers-TV's-Movies-Cassettes-CD's-Computer-Printers-Monitors-Ovens-Dishwashers-Washer/Dryers-Doors-Plantation Shutters-Blinds-Screens-FileCabinets-Furnaces-Refrigerators-Lights-Fans-Shades-Beds-Tables-Chairs-Couches-Sofas-Windows-Tile-Carpet-Toilets-Sinks-Faucets-Curios-Decor Items-Cabinets-Rugs-Filters-Flagstone-Flooring-Organs-Dishes-....CHANGES DAILY.... ALL 1/2 price this week ExceptPaint Supplies (baby blue dot)

New (never used) 1/2 price NOW Lights from 99c Fans $69.99 ea (compare $299) Oriental Rugs $1,250 ea (compare $2,500) Couch $349.50 (compare $2,400) Doors $20 to $400 (compare $100 to $1,000 Ceramic Tile $2.50 to $12.50 bx

Photobucket see more

Habitat ReStore Open To the public Tuesday thru Saturday 10 am to 6 pm Sunday NOON to 5 pm

Birthday Blow-Out
Started Saturday 4/12 10am
Ends Sunday 4/20 5pm

Shop/Donate/Volunteer

Compare at: $4.75 sq ft Sale This week $1.25 sq ft ALL

$1.50 sq ft room cut

14' x 85'
New (wrapped)SEE more at Photobucet

Paint Supplies

NOT 1/2 off Still Introductory Priced Too low to discount
New Photobucket Slide Show

99c
NEW in box

Compare at $12.99 SALE price $.99 THIS WEEK

PhotoBucket See more

Sofa Compare $2,400 This Week $359.50

MUST SEE More available ALL 1/2 off THIS WEEK Delivery Available Photobucket other view Open:Tuesday thru Saturday 10am to 6pm Sunday 12 to 5pm

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED to help us run the ReStore..HELP... Open: Tuesday thru Saturday 10 am to 6 pm Sunday noon to 5 pm Blow-Out Sale ends Sunday at 5pm
50% off-Everything in the ReStore (except baby blue dot) Paint Supplies
as they will remain at Introductory low price..already too cheap
75% off- everything with a RED DOT..YES..there are some items tagged.

Shop, buy, donate and volunteerat the ReStore SCCTX all proceeds go to Habitat for Humanity

a 501(c)(3) non profit Restore.habitat-scc.org THANK YOU
Habitat for Humanity ReStore of South Collin County

THANK YOU ReStore Regular...enjoy the 1/2 off for ONE WEEK..TELL EVERYONE..

Laundry room lesson - clean, clear & clutter contained

2008-04-14T13:22:05Z

When selling a house it's important to look at every room of your house through a buyer's eyes as they would see it upon previewing.

Want a simple way to see it from their perspective? Take a photo of it and see for yourself. It isn't always what you expect.

This is a small laundry room below but obviously functional.

While living in a home we all know how our laundry rooms can get, especially if the chores get backed up. When selling however, we need to make a big effort to keep every room of the house as neat as possible for showing, including the laundry room. Basically no one wants to be reminded of chores associated with owning and living in a house while home shopping. Especially they don't want to see YOUR dirty laundry or smell it for that matter.

Simple changes and corrections can go a long way. No money was spent here, just a little "sweat equity".

In less time than it took to wash and dry a load of laundry, this room went from cluttered to clean and the room on the right gives buyers the fresh clean look they want to see in the laundry room they intend on buying.

Keep the laundry room:

clean
clear of laundry (dirty or clean)
clutter contained to cabinets or decorative containers and baskets.
Simple changes make a big difference in the eyes of the buyer.

You can almost play a game of "what's the difference with these two pictures"?

Which photo would you rather have on your online presentation?

Home staging does not have to be expensive, but the small changes you make can yield big rewards.

Get the "buyer's eye" perspective from a professional home stager.

A cost effective consultation can give you all the information you need to do the job yourself and know which changes pay the biggest profits.

Home Star Staging works with clients in all price points, no house is too small and you deserve to get what it's worth.

Professional Home Stagers: Working with YOU to achieve great results!

Do YOU have one on YOUR TEAM?

Superior Real Estate Staging & Consulting Services for Collin County,TX & surrounding areas

Realtors, Sellers and Investors : Home Star Staging is on your team!

Home Staging CE Course for Realtors & Sellers - Collin College, Plano,TX begins April 21

2008-04-14T09:05:45Z

It's still not too "latte" to enroll according to the Collin College Schedule of Continuing Education course offerings for January - April 2008.

There is still time to enroll for the April 21st -May 12th Home Staging CE course.

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Days: Mondays
Location: Court Yard Center at Preston & Park Campus

Home Staging is a course that is;

"Designed for the home owner or the professional real estate agent to prepare a home for resale. Learn the benefits of home staging and how staging a property for resale can help you achieve a faster sales time and top dollar".

Collin County Professional Home Stager, Karen Otto shares her expertise and knowledge of Home Staging bringing it to home sellers, Realtors and Investors who want to know how Home Staging can help them achieve a faster sales time and top dollar.

Highlights of the course include:

Real Estate Merchandising
Why Staging works
Staging occupied properties
Real Estate Photography with John McConnell
Staging vacant properties

Please note however: This is NOT a class for those wishing to start a home staging business.

Check out the list of Continuing Education course offerings for more information and registration.

If you received a class schedule as a resident of Collin County the course number is listed on

page 7 of your booklet.

For those outside of Collin County, please refer to course number:

08C.RELE1091.020 Date 4/21-5/12 or go here to register online for Home Staging.

New Website for Real Estate Experts & Professionals - Please join me FREE!

2008-04-13T08:40:54Z

I have had the pleasure of working with the folks at energized seller.com (who by the way found me on Active Rain) over the past few months as the initial phase of their new website a "community for helping the motivated seller" took flight.

I am happy to post this initial launch here as an INVITATION TO ALL THE REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS here on Active Rain to join in (FREE) and contribute to this amazing new site.

I have embraced this concept from the moment I spoke with them.

energized seller.com is a site for the "proactive seller" to come and get information from the pros on how to best prepare their home for sale.

All of our best clients could be described as "energized sellers" those sellers who are truly motivated to get their house sold in the quickest time possible for the most profit.

This site is not limited to FSBO's my friends, it is anyone who is selling a home while in the preparation stage or while currently listed (Realtors send your clients here!), it is an opportunity for all of us to share our expertise with folks around the country and in your own neck of the woods. Set yourself apart as the expert in your area!

Check out this Video and get to know the folks at energized seller.com

Your contributions are necessary to be a part of this vibrant new and growing Real Estate Social Networking Community. As with Active Rain, SEO is an integral part of your growing business and being seen as an expert in the field is also a vital part of growing your business.

Real Estate experts in all areas are needed to offer expertise, advice and opinions to motivated sellers around the country. You decide what you want to contribute.

I encourage you to please join me and make this an ACTIVE site, vibrant and useful for our clients just as Active Rain has become for our community of RE Professionals around the globe!

Got Pets? Selling a house? One sniff could snuff a sale

2008-04-09T16:27:45Z

Pets. We love them if we own them, they're our babies and a part of the family. However when selling, they become a different story when others will be entering and previewing your property.

First and foremost, for the safety of your beloved pets, consideration must be given to how they will be kept safe while showing. Potential problems could arise if:

An exterior door is left open for possible escape
A usually friendly animal is frightened by strangers entering his "territory" and aggressive behavior ensues (I learned this first hand when I acquired a small Quaker Parrot. Oatie cannot be left out when visitors come because he flies at them unexpectedly)
Loud barking, growling or even birds squawking creates an unsettling mood for showing the house. In some cases, barking dogs have prevented showings from even taking place before the key was turned on the front door!
Overly friendly animals jumping or wrecking havoc on potential buyers is a possibility. Just recently I was at a home where a nervous but friendly puppy proceeded to pee all over the place, including shoes!

Secondly, and just as important is the safety of the potential buyers and Realtors who will be previewing your property for sale. Not only do many people fear animals, but allergies and cultural assumptions about "living with animals" may present problems you may not have considered.

Why let fears, smells, allergens and assumptions be a potential deal breaker? Do what you can to eliminate these factors from the buyer's field of sight and smell and keep your pets safe and happy in the process.

Here's a list of suggestions to help you make the process of selling with pets smoother:

Ideally, pets should be removed from premises or at the very least crated, caged and contained in one area. When we have a party we keep our pets in a guest room upstairs with a sign on the door like the one here. A laundry room or spare guest room off the main house could be a good option if your pets cannot be removed for showing. Here's a simple sign you can create to give notice to potential buyers and Realtors who may be previewing your property.
Keep all evidence of pets clean and clear of the surroundings; from food and water bowls, toys, fur and droppings, keep the house, inside and out clear of pet paraphernalia.
Odors most certainly need addressing. Cat urine can often be detected upon entering a property even if you think you can't smell it after it's been thoroughly cleaned. A repeat offender may use the same area over and over and no matter how well you think you've got it covered, the acid has permeated the padding below the carpet and without replacing the pad and carpet entirely, it's almost impossible to remove the smell. Seek professional cleaning advice and consider your budget options.
Highly sensitive types will react to fur and dander in your home. Keeping your home as clean as possible with daily vacuuming and disinfecting may help offset potential allergic reactions.

By taking the necessary steps to ensure your pet's safety and well being, you're on your way to finding a new home not only for you but Fido too.

Professional Home Stagers: Working with YOU to achieve great results!

Do YOU have one on YOUR TEAM?

Superior Real Estate Staging & Consulting Services for Collin County & surrounding areas

Realtors, Investors and Sellers: Home Star Staging is on your team!

"Sell This House" Staging Experts answer seller's questions on Washington Post segment

2008-04-05T12:22:52Z

My Google Alerts came up today with this segment in the Washington Post, from Thursday, April 3, 2008.

It was a question and answer session with Roger Hazzard and his co-host Tanya Memme from the show Sell This House on A & E. Curious I went and read through the post and found some good stuff there. Sellers wrote questions in and Roger and Tanya answered them. What a great forum and way to position yourself as the "expert" on call!

Now if only the Washington Post would have invited me ...

Below is the link:

Sell This House Q & A with Roger Hazzard and Tanya Memme

Dallas & Ft. Worth, TX IAHSP Invites YOU to a Spring Fling! April 30th, 2008

2008-04-04T12:42:29Z

Along with the IASHP Foundation, DIRC & FWIRC are also raising awareness and money to benefit Promise House, Dallas, TX.

The Mission of Promise House (from the Promise House website)

Promise House is a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible charitable organization governed by a Board of Directors. It is licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services."

Please come support this event to; network, shop, enter a fabulous drawing, bid on the Silent Auction, eat and have a great time in support of a worthy cause!

Details below. Bring a friend or 6!

Cort Furniture Rental

www.cort.com

14215 Inwood Rd
Dallas, TX 75244
(972) 386-2981
Get directions

More information »

Plano East Senior High Theatre wins District 9 5 A UIL One Act Play - The Dispute

2008-03-31T11:48:25Z

Front left to right: Jackson Lewis, Samantha Sterling, Samantha Ashby, Claire Smith and Zach Elms
(Tech Director)

Back left to right: Lila Flores, Mia Hailemeskel, Rachel Chesnut, Karsten Otto, Dustin Tsai, Lindsey Kite,
Matthew Jones, Lisa Hale (Director), Thomas Stimpson, Monica Ruiz, Jeffrey Moffitt

Plano East Theatre Captures 5th Consecutive District Title

On Friday, March 28 Plano East Sr. High won the District 9 5A UIL One Act Play Championship for the fifth year in a row with their production of the French comedy, THE DISPUTE, by Marivaux.

Senior, Lila Flores, was named Best Actress.

Juniors, Jeffery Moffitt and Karsten Otto were named to the District All Star Cast, while Senior, Dustin Tsai received an Honorable Mention and Senior, Matthew Jones was named to the All Star Technical Crew.

Other members of the award winning production include: Claire Smith, Thomas Stimpson, Samantha Sterling, Samantha Ashby, Jackson Lewis, Mia Hailemeskel, Monica Ruiz, Lindsey Kite and Rachel Chesnut. The students are under the director of Lisa Hale and Zachary Elms.

Plano East competes in the Region II Area I contest on Saturday, April 5 at Plano East.

Winners of that contest will advance to the Region II finals on April 11 at Baylor University in Waco.

CONGRATULATIONS PLANO EAST!