Michele Rose: Weichert Realtors, Rose-Colored Staging

Closing Day is Coming - Prepare Your Home For Pay Day

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:06:56 -0600

This is a great post from my friend Greg-- once your house is sold, this will help you get on to the actual moving on to your new life!

Via R. Greg Osmond Realtor, St. John's, Newfoundland, Real Estate (Sutton Group-Capital Realty Ltd.):

So you have sold your home! Congratulations! Closing day is coming. Prepare your home for pay day.

When your house sells it usually results in you feeling pretty great, at least for a little while. Yet not long after, the pressures of preparing the home for closing day begin to mount. You wanted this day to come but now that it is really happening you have some ambivalence. Preparing the house for closing becomes top of mind.

So what things should you do to prepare for closing day?

Here are seven recommendations to help with the mental task of preparing your home for closing. That is the day when the buyers walk through, inspect "your" work, confirm that everything is as they expect it to be, and proceed to the lawyers office with the cheque.

1. Find yourself some boxes. If you are doing your own packing, and many people do, gathering lots of wrapping tissue or news paper and boxes will be just the thing. Pick up 50 or more depending on how much stuff you plan to take to your new destination. When you have them, start packing all the things you plan to take but can do without until you are relocated. It is more than you think.

2. Identify the give aways and make a list of people you know will take them off your hands. We all have a few items that we would prefer to give away. Avoid carrying these into your "next life" by passing them down to a loved one or friend. It often feels liberating to pass along something you are no longer using or that you just want someone else to have.

3. Identify the garage/yard sale items and plan your weekend sale now. This will involve putting the announcement notice in the paper and online. Get it organized and planned for the earliest date. This will help you to make sure the weekend does not creep up on you unaware. Deadlines for advertising in the paper are some of those things that do creep up.

4. Throw away anything else left over. If you can't sell it or give it away and you are not going to keep it, then send it to the landfill. Yes, I know that is not environmentally friendly but unless you can make an old broken chair into next weeks dinner, you have to throw some things out. This is one of those times.

5. Clean up all rooms in the house that you can before moving day gets here. Leave only the vacuuming for the very last day. Ask a couple of cleaners to go through the home and do the heavy work for you. Hire them if you need to. Cleaning the ceilings and walls, lights, shelving, cupboards, windows, and storage areas are things the hired help can do. This is not the time to be Superwoman....or even the time to be married to her. Tip for the guys. Insist on this one. It will save you a tonne of guilt. :-)

6. Book the movers. I know, I have it numbered as 6 but really you should make this number 1. The earlier you do this, the better. Often the movers are really busy at peak moving days so get on this and reserve them now. It will take a lot off your mind.

7. When closing day comes, you will have everything out of the house, and the house thoroughly cleaned. Why not leave a little gift on the counter and a hand written note expressing your personal enjoyment of the home, along with well wishes for the new owners in the years ahead? It is amazing how that little gesture will help smooth over any small wrinkle that might arise. At this point, you have prepared the house as best as you can. The final piece is all about people management.

Closing day will come and your efforts will all be rewarded. With careful attention to details the sale will close smoothly and the payment for the home will be in your account, if only for a moment in time. At this point, you need to take yourself out for dinner. After all, you deserve a reward too. You have done a great job!

___________________________________________________________________________________

About the Author: R. Greg Osmond is a Platinum Award winning Realtor dedicated to serving the people of St. John's, Mount Pearl, Paradise, Kilbride, Goulds, Conception Bay South (CBS), Portugal Cove - St. Philips, Torbay – Flatrock – Pouch Cove, and Logy Bay - Middle Cove - Outer Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador. For over 21 years Greg has been practicing in Real Estate. He can be reached at 709-895-2500.

Want to get in touch? Email rgosmond1@gmail.com. For more information, please visit http://www.rgregosmond.com. Thinking of selling your home? I have a passion for helping my clients with buying and selling real estate! If there is any way I can be of service to you today, please feel free to contact me!

Are You a Facebook Friend Who Gets "Hidden?"

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:34:38 -0500

Your Facebook friends may have hidden you and you didn't know it! Yes, you could be talking to, well, no one. OK- maybe it's not that bad, but there may be some friends you are missing.

I have been on Facebook for about a year now and have amassed a modest 127 friends. I don't often go seeking friends but I do love adding friends when they find me! Facebook has been a great way for me to get to know friends better, colleagues, and sometimes even strangers if we have a common bond such as our business.

I love sharing what I'm doing and hearing about what my friends are up to during the day. But, as with anything, there are times when it's not so much a thrill. There are times I have "un-friended" people and have "hidden" others.

Why?

What were their crimes to deserve this? As I share a few reasons, consider if you've been guilty!

Unfriended: Generally the only reason I would actually "un-friend" someone is for obscenity. It's my Facebook, I have other friends and colleagues who see it, and I just plain don't want it.

Hidden: I "hide" people more often when I don't want to lose their friendship but I just can't take their posts any longer! This allows me to occasionally go in and see what they're up to and still maintain contact with them. Most of the time, they're not aware they're hidden and that I'm not seeing their posts.

Some reasons I have "hidden" friends:

• Constant sales pitch: Whether it's business, politics, your religion, or your new diet you can't stop talking about. Mention it now and then, fine. Post it over and over and over again, sometimes 3 or more times in a row and you're hidden.

• Constant updates: Like 4-5 in a row. Whether it's what you're doing every minute, or what you ate-- edit yourself. Please. I really do not need to know everything!

• Quotes: Remember: You are not the only one who constantly posts quotes. There's only so many quotes I can take!

I think the thing to remember is that this is Social Media-- with the emphasis on social. It is not usually the content that will get someone hidden as much as it is the frequency of that content. I want to know who you are, not your sales pitch, or a random quote. Think of it as a party-- you wouldn't walk in and start your sales pitch. You would seek to form relationships.

Facebook is also a "give and take." Do you post frequently but never comment on anyone else's posts? Don't be a selfish Facebook friend! How good can a relationship be if it's one-sided?

Facebook is a wonderful way to connect and re-connect with friends, colleagues, and others, but as in any relationship, it needs nourishment and time invested.

So, are there Facebook habits you can change? I know I'm not the only one who hides people for these reasons!

Please try to avoid these habits-- you are in a vibrant industry with plenty of great things to share!

Don't go and get yourself hidden!

Michele Roseis a Realtor and Professional Home Stager in Burlington County, NJ. She has been assisting both buyers and sellers with their real estate needs for the last 5 years. In 2007, she formed Rose-Colored Staging to help sellers market their homes with professional home staging.

Lovely 3 Bedroom Ranch Home in Southampton, Burlington County, NJ: Open House 10/11

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 15:19:20 -0500

Welcome to this lovely 3 BR, 2 bath home nestled in Southampton!

EVERYTHING has been done for you-- just move right in! Totally updated kitchen and baths, newer flooring, and all new windows throughout. Master bedroom suite features a walk-in closet and private bath with jacuzzi tub for your own spa-like getaway!

Every attention to detail was given including hardwood flooring, recessed lighting, updated hardware and light fixtures, chair rails, moldings, and wainscotting. This home also boasts an additional BONUS ROOM just off the kitchen that can be used as a dining room, family room, home office-- whatever you like!

Home features newer HVAC, upgraded plumbing and electric, new vinyl siding and newer roof. Yard is professionally landscaped and features EP Henry pavers. The fenced-in back yard is like an oasis with a beautiful brick patio and expansive lawn, perfect for entertaining! Backing up to a private wooded area completes the look!

Low taxes and great schools make this a great place to live! Don't miss this charming home-- call for an appt. TODAY!

OPEN HOUSE OCTOBER 11th, 1-4PM

October Happenings in Burlington County, NJ: Fall Festivals, Craft Shows, & More!

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 14:48:41 -0500

This article comes to you from my sister, Lisa Rose, who is my "Guest Blogger." Lisa is also a life-long resident of Burlington County and loves to shop!

It never fails. There will come a crisp evening every September when someone in my family will walk through the front door and say,

"It smells like Halloween." No explanation is necessary. We just say, "Awww, it does?"

Translation: It smells just like it did when were trick-or-treating 35 years ago with the smell of fireplaces and leaves.

There is something special about the Fall. It is a time to celebrate the year's harvest and prepare for the cold winter ahead. It's also a reminder of the upcoming holiday season.

Burlington County offers a variety of Fall Festivals, Craft shows, and Halloween activities for the whole family:

One year my sister and I stumbled upon the Cranberry Festival on Farnsworth Avenue in historic Bordentown City. I found a footstool made of an old Pepsi crate and always keep it in front of my favorite rocker. This year's festival is on October 3 and 4. They offer hundreds of crafters, food vendors, a classic car show and children's events.

October 10th, visit the historic Kirby's Mill in Medford for the Apple Festival and try some home-churned apple ice cream, apple cider donuts, apple cobbler and more! Over 100 artists and crafters will have display booths with one-of-a-kind items for your early holiday shopping. Musicians will serenade you while you enjoy this fabulous annual event!

October 10 is also the Fall Home Brew Contest in Mt. Holly at the High Street Grill for tasting and judging the People's Choice, see who the professionals pick, beer tickets and a fall inspired buffet.

The Witches and Wizards Costume Ball is for adults who want to get into the Halloween spirit with fire dancers, palm and tarot readings, ghost stories, and a costume contest. Held at Mill Race Village in Mt. Holly on October 15.

The Historic Prison offers Haunted Tours from October 9 to the 31st.

Enjoy live music at the Celtic Café Concert on Union Street at the Friend's Meeting Hall on October 16 in Medford.

Octoberfest is to be held in Haddonfield on October 17 with over 100 crafters, vendors and skateboard demonstrations. Stop by the Haddonfield Farmer's Market for some fresh produce before you head home.

In neighboring Chatsworth, The Annual Cranberry Festival is October 17 and 18th with crafters, vendors and antiques.

My cousin informed us of a wonderful mission project. The International Gift Sale held on October 18 and sponsored by Faith Presbyterian Church in Medford, helps sell handcrafted items to support the international economy for struggling countries. It's the perfect place to find unique Christmas presents and holiday décor and it's for an excellent cause!

October 18th 9am is the Fall Foliage Family Float Festival! (Say it 3 times real fast) Smithville is offering free canoes and kayaks for all of the family to enjoy the foliage views from the Rancocas Creek. Don't forget to check out the re-enactments and Star cyclists.

October 25th Bordentown: Check out the Halloween Parade, a Ghost Walk, and Bordentown's House Decorating Contest.

No matter how you spend your free time this Harvest season, be sure to walk outside on a crisp autumn night and take in the fall air and know that it smells like Halloween.

Mt. Holly's Historic Prison

Michele Rose is a Realtor and Professional Home Stager in Burlington County, NJ. She has been assisting both buyers and sellers with their real estate needs for the last 5 years. In 2007, she formed Rose-Colored Staging to help sellers market their homes with professional home staging.

Dear Mr. Seller, I TRIED to Help You, but ...

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:53:16 -0500

This is a wonderful article from a Professional Home Stager in Portland, OR, but it equally applies to our Burlington County, NJ audience as well! Home Stagers really want to help you sell your house! Call Rose-Colored Staging for a consultation today!

Via Maureen Bray ~ Home Stager Portland OR ~ Room Solutions Staging (Staging that Sells Portland Homes):

Dear Mr. Seller,

You contacted my company 3 months ago and requested a staging proposal for your home. It's in a premier Portland neighborhood but you said you knew it needed some help before listing. You'd already bought another home and were packing up your things to move out in a few days.

When I arrived to view your home, it was surprising to see a huge pool table in your dining room! We laughed together about that and the long heavy dark velvet drapes! Your home needed major cleaning and packing up of many small items. I knew we could help you!

We'd be able to work with most of your furniture and would provide the necessary missing pieces as well as accessories, art, trees & plants, etc. as needed. We discussed that if we were going to work together, I'd give you a detailed list that would include which furniture pieces to leave behind as well as some easy cosmetic improvements that you could do yourself.

You told me that your listing agent did not believe in home staging. I was surprised to hear this, because I thought that your home was one of the better candidates I've seen this year, but I kept my opinion to myself. I told you that our company keeps track of our staging statistics, and we're proud of them. I knew we could help you!

Later that day I emailed you a cost-effective proposal that included staging your home using your items and providing quality furniture & accessories from our inventory. We would stage your entire home to make it appealing to your target buyer. Our proposal also included quality digital photos for the online listing ... critical in today's challenging market. I knew we could help you!

Later, I was disappointed that you decided not to stage your home. Looking at the online listing, it was a shock to see the photos of your home! They are dark, out of focus, crooked, and don't show the best features of your home. I won't show them here because that would not be discreet, but I noticed the heavy velvet drapes are still there, and your furniture is not in the right position to showcase the space. I knew we could have helped you!

After 6 weeks on the market I noticed that you took a $30,000 price reduction! After another 6 weeks, I saw that your price had now dropped $50,000!   Hmmm ... your agent discouraged you from staging (even though you would have paid for it) but has no problem recommending that you drop your price by $50K?

Wow! Staging your home with a professional staging company would have cost a tiny fraction of your first price reduction -- but you decided to drop your price by $50,000 instead.   How does that make sense from a financial viewpoint?

The sad thing is, today I drove by your home again on my way to staging one of your neighbor's homes, and saw the new addition now hanging from your For Sale Sign ...

We really did try to help you!

     ***            ***              ***

For help making sure your home shines for potential buyers, contact Room Solutions Staging in Portland OR to learn more about our home staging services. We work with Homeowners, Banks, Realtors, and Investors to prepare homes to SELL. Give us a call at 503-246-1800 for more information. Room Solutions ~ Staging that Sells Portland Homes.
       Staging that sells Portland homes!

The Cheapest Way to Renovate-- The Amazing, Wonderful Can of Paint!

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 19:30:31 -0500

Yes, a simple can or two of paint can totally transform your home! Paint is, hands-down, the least expensive change to your home you can make, adding the biggest impact. If you are not sure how much "bang for your buck" you can get just from picking up a roller, just take a look:

This bathroom from a home in Mt. Holly was indeed hard on the eyes! With outdated foil-like wallpaper, pink tile and flooring, everything about this bath would surely frighten most buyers away! Since the very limited budget did not allow for updating anything else, we simply painted the walls white and replaced the blind. We then used white accessories to calm down the pink that remained.

This kitchen from a home in Willingboro has outdated metal cabinets, and a very dated counter. And the green floral wallpaper was not doing it any favors! Even the lovely little built-in hutch in the hall was lost in the chaos. Renovating was not an option so we enhanced what we could by removing the wallpaper and painting the walls a beige color that actually made the cabinets look warmer and nicer. We used the same beige color to make the hutch "pop" and with a bit of de-cluttering and red accents, this kitchen was ready to show!

This last little gem was truly designed for the homeowner's taste-not the buyer's! This bath would have been right at home at a bed & breakfast in Cape May, but in Eastampton, NJ, buyers were saying, "No Way!" We removed the gold ceiling wallpaper, black floral wallpaper, and lace so we now have a clean, light and fresh bath, sure to appeal to the buyers!

When getting your home ready to place on the market, it is not always necessary to completely update everything! The goal is not to have a perfect house, but to have a house that allows buyers to imagine the possibilities-- to see themselves living there.

If you are considering placing your home on the market, call Rose-Colored Staging for a consultation! We can tell you what changes you should make to your home that will give you the most "bang for your buck" and will help get your house sold!

Portland Home Stagers Meet Dan Vickery, Design Star Finalist!

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:27:47 -0500

For those of you who are fans of HGTV's Design Star!

Via Maureen Bray ~ Home Stager Portland OR ~ Room Solutions Staging (Staging that Sells Portland Homes):

Kathy Alexander, a local staging colleague and A/R member, invited me to a Grand Finale party hosted by Dan Vickery, HGTV's Season 4 Design Star finalist. The big bash was held at Kell's Irish Pub in downtown Portland this evening, where they had large screens set up to play the actual HGTV Season 4 Finale show.

We arrived early to get a good table (and had a cocktail before ordering a delicious Irish dinner) and soon a big white limo pulled up outside and out popped Dan Vickery with some of his family & friends ... when Dan walked into the pub, everyone cheered and he happily posed for photos with his "fans" and even signed autographs. Dan was accompanied by a gorgeous, tall brunette who he later introduced as his girlfriend, Rose. Dan is extremely gracious and about the nicest, most humble person you could meet. Not to mention what a talented designer he is!

There were multiple huge screens set up in the pub, and once the actual HGTV Season 4 finale started, during the intermissions Dan stood at the mic and took questions from the audience. We learned some interesting things about the show, some of which may surprise you:

The "Elimination Rounds" actually take 10 to 12 hours! There is a lot of editing done to whittle them down to just a few minutes on each weekly episode. Dan said the atmosphere during these rounds is quite tense.

None of the Design Star contestants are paid for their time on the show. Their accommodation and meals are provided, but nothing more. They work an average of 14-16 hours each day for 6 weeks and exist on about 6 hours of sleep each night. Dan said his Oregon family was hugely supportive of his entering the competition and that he couldn't have done it without their help.

There is no interaction between the contestants and the judges (Vern Yip, Candice Olson, and Genevieve Gorder) during the filming of the show -- only at the Elimination Rounds.

Where do the "Helper carpenters" come from for the Grand Finale? The producers run an ad on Craigslist!

How do the families and their homes get on the show? The producers figure out which neighborhoods are relatively easy to get permits in, and go knocking on doors. Anyone who participates gets all the work done for free. After the designers do their work, a professional construction crew follows up to correct any deficiencies and to make sure everything is done according to local code.

Kathy & I put this sign on our table so there was no doubt who we thought the winner was!

Although Dan was the Runner-Up we think he did a fantastic job ... and we hope he'll win the "on line show" on HGTV. There's still time to go to their website and vote for him! That competition ends on Tuesday Sept. 15th @ 5pm EST.

Here's a few photos of Dan tonight during the Grand Finale Party held in his honor ... he was a superb host!

Did you see the show? Did you agree with the judges' outcome? Looking forward to hearing what others thought of it.
Staging that sells Portland homes!

My First Hand Experience with Staging my NJ Home -- Part Three: From Showings to Sold!

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:00:55 -0500

Once my house was beautifully staged and had put on its "best face," the next step was making sure people saw it! These are the steps I took to ensure that my home had many visitors and that I made the most of each visit:

• What I did: I determined that every time someone was going to see the house, whether it be other realtors or buyers, they would have yummy treats and made to feel welcome. Whether it be cookies, muffins, juice, soda-- whatever can be put out on a pretty plate with matching paper cups and napkins makes buyers want to stay and enjoy your home.

• Buyers' response: They were thrilled and so were their agents. After touring many homes on a hot, sunny day, they loved those refreshments! And later found out I was the only one to have snacks for them!

• What I did: The two dogs and the cat were packed up and taken for a ride during every showing. Most people do not have pets, therefore I cannot expect them to feel at home with mine. All evidence of them (bowls, bedding, etc.) was hidden away.

• Buyers' response: They were shocked when they realized we did have pets. All they saw was a clean, well-kept home.

• What I did: I created a feeling of a serene, comfortable, home. Soft music played in the living room and master bedroom. Everything was in place. The buyers had no idea of the mad scramble to catch the cat, or that the nervous dog with the bladder problem had an accident, there was a large party the day before, the laundry that didn't get done, or the coffee that spilled!

• Buyers' response: The feedback was, "I feel such a sense of peace in this house!" and "Phenomenal!" Overwhelmingly, the buyers loved it.

• What I did: I never, ever turned down a showing! Never! Even if it was last minute, I made it work by asking them to give me one hour. On the weekends, the house was always ready-- just in case, since that is the time when most people are out looking. And open houses? YES! Did them too!

• Buyers' response: They were able to see the house on their schedule. In fact, the buyers who ended up buying the house, also visited the open house the next day. The house's availability to them was most important in their final decision!

The Results:

Of the last four showings, we had four offers; the accepted offer was just over asking price! In a local market that is riddled with short sales and foreclosures, and houses that are just languishing, this house easily sold! Was it worth all the craziness and work to get it ready? Absolutely! In fact, I have watched our competition continue to sit on the market . Why didn't they stage? I don't know-- but I'm glad they didn't!

Kitchen Before (from previous owners) Kitchen After Staging

Part One: The Preparation

Part Two: The Staging

Michele Rose is a Realtor and Professional Home Stager in Burlington County, NJ. She has been assisting both buyers and sellers with their real estate needs for the last 5 years. In 2007, she formed Rose-Colored Staging to help sellers market their homes with professional home staging.

My First Hand Experience with Staging my NJ Home -- Part Two: The Staging

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 22:07:07 -0500

Disclaimer: This is the true story of a somewhat obsessive home stager. The level of staging in a home is set by the homeowner-- you can do as much or as little as you like. I chose the "all-out, go for broke, I'm gonna sell this house if it's the last thing I do" approach.

My first hand experience with staging my NJ home continues! Now that I have de-cluttered, it's time to actually stage the house.

First Challenge: No Storage Space

When a seller has packed loads of stuff to store until moving day, they have a couple of options:

• Rent a storage unit or store it with a friend or relative until moving day. This is not always an option. So, the next best thing--

• Designate a space in the basement or garage where storage bins can be neatly stacked, away from the main living areas of the home.

Uh-oh! I do not have a garage or basement-- a good reason why I'm moving. I not only have my own stuff but a ton of staging accessories for my home staging business. What to do?

So, sad but true, I broke my own rule, and used an extra bedroom to store everything. Now, the bedroom is the same size as the one next to it, which is good. I contained everything neatly against the back wall, taking up less than half the room. And-- I certainly did not include pictures of this room in my marketing! My hope was that the buyers would be so "wowed" by the first floor that once upstairs, they would overlook the one room that wasn't "up to snuff."

Second Challenge: Staging with Pets

Any evidence of our beloved furry members of the family must be hidden. It's true. And it's difficult. Bedding, toys, food and water bowls, litter box, hair, chews, and the pets themselves. Here's what we did:

• The bedding and clean litter box were hidden under beds; toys into storage trunks.

• We took both dogs and the cat for a car ride during every showing.

NOTE: Hiding things under the bed only works if the bed skirt is long enough to cover.

If the skirt's not long enough, you're not hiding anything!

Third Challenge: Living Staged

Now, all was in place-- the rooms were decorated to appeal to buyers, everything was clean and smelling fresh. Now, how to keep it up?

The best thing I can tell you is: baskets and storage benches/ottomans are your best friend! You can quickly and easily toss stuff into them before showings. Toiletries, laundry, toys, mail and bills, remotes and chargers, shoes, just about anything that can add clutter can get tossed into a bin and hidden.

Living staged is a bit odd. I have towels and table settings that are only for show. I routinely hide all evidence that anyone eats here, sleeps here, or uses the bathroom in any way. The house needs to be ready for those agents who give very little notice when requesting a showing. I have become a master of hiding things, cleaning quickly, and freshening a room.

It is exhausting.

Statistically, homes that have been staged spend less time on the market so that's really good news for me! I have to say, when the house is really clean, beautifully decorated, and you're careful about the upkeep, it is a very nice way to live!

Stay tuned for my next post:

My First Hand Experience with Staging my NJ Home-Part Three: The Showings!

Part One: The Preparation

Michele Rose is a Realtor and Professional Home Stager in Burlington County, NJ. She has been assisting both buyers and sellers with their real estate needs for the last 5 years. In 2007, she formed Rose-Colored Staging to help sellers market their homes with professional home staging.

My First Hand Experience with Staging my NJ Home -- Part One: The Preparation

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 18:47:31 -0500

I have been selling homes as a Realtor in Burlington County for 5 years and have been staging homes for the real estate market for 2 years. I have helped many sellers determine what repairs to make, what needs to be updated, and what it would take to market their homes with staging.

And then it happened... (queue the scary music)

My own home is for sale! I know the stats-- staged homes sell faster and for more money. As part of my marketing plan, I needed to stage the house! So-- would I be able to take what I dished out? Live what I preached? Take my own advice? (Here's where my clients gleefully cheer, "ha-ha, now SHE has to do it!)

OK, first things first. De-cluttering. We all hear the word; we all know we have to do it, but until you're selling your home, you usually aren't forced to do it.

What needed to go?

• The family photos: Packed away! People are distracted by faces and I want them to focus on the house. Also, my goal is to help buyers see themselves living in my house, not me. Family photos may give buyers the sense they are invading on my territory. I did leave out a couple of travel photos-- my theory is that pictures of me in exotic locations may help buyers envision a lifestyle that can be theirs! (Because my life is soooo glamorous... )

• Extra furniture: I determined what I really want to move with me. Did I buy it in the last decade? Have the kids and pets wreaked havoc on it? Do I use it? Is there really room in my new home for it? If not, it was sold in the moving sale or on Craigslist, or donated.

• Anything that doesn't bring on my "happy face": I use this method all the time in de-cluttering. When I consider the item, I take note of what my face does. Do I scrunch up my face and think, "oh yeah, Aunt Mable gave me that." Do I get a worried look and think, "what am I going to do with that?" Or-- do I smile and say, "Oh, I always loved that!" I pay attention to my face and if the item doesn't make me smile, it is outta here! I keep only the things that bring me joy!

Once I determined what I'm keeping, I packed away anything that is not useful or beautiful and left out only my best items for staging. I packed anything smaller than my hand-- it's a much cleaner look to have one beautiful item on display rather than several small ones.

OK, now that's done and I have a lot less I have to deal with! I can tell you it's a really good feeling to unload stuff that's just been taking up space! What wasn't packed or sold, got donated or trashed. It is also much easier to keep everything clean since there's not nearly as much stuff!

Next on the list: Repairs, painting, and updating. Carpets and windows were replaced, bathrooms updated, painting done just about everywhere. A ton of work, really. Still recuperating. And this was all BEFORE the actual staging of the home began!

Am I going to be able to keep this up?

Stay tuned for my next post:

My First Hand Experience with Staging my NJ Home-- Part Two: The Staging

Michele Rose is a Realtor and Professional Home Stager in Burlington County, NJ. She has been assisting both buyers and sellers with their real estate needs for the last 5 years. In 2007, she formed Rose-Colored Staging to help sellers market their homes with professional home staging.

Protecting Yourself from U-Haul - Use your Camera Phone to Take Photos

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:30:31 -0500

This is a great post courtesy of: Dan Quinn : Dan's Blog in Silver Spring, MD.

Via Dan Quinn (Prudential Advantage Realty):

A picture is worth a thousand words and in this case, $$ cash $$. Protect yourself as I did, and perhaps your photos could be worth thousands of dollars, not just words.

Read on.

I helped move my daughter and her husband to their new home this weekend. We rented a U-Haul truck and returned it as required - broom cleaned, no dents and with the required amount of gasoline to replenish what we used. The vendor where we dropped it off was closed, so I dropped the key in the slot in the secure metal box provided for key returns. As a precaution, I took photos with my camera phone just in case any issues might arise later.

The next day I received an email from the vendor indicating I had not refilled the gasoline in the truck and I was fined $38.75 as a penalty. WHAT!!!

Boy was I angry. I called and filed a protest (twice) with U-Haul's "customer advocate" division. They promised me a call back within 48 hours. Well, it's been 52 hours and I'm still waiting for that call and I am @#$%^'&*!!!

OK. I'll let you decide. I say this was either fraudulent (make a quick buck on the side) or incompetency (they need to learn how to read their own fuel gauges!).

The tank reading from my first receipt when I picked up the truck (between 3/8 and 1/2):

Here is the vendor receipt showing the mileage and the gas tank reading (along with the $38.75 fuel charge penalty) after I returned the truck:

and here are my photos:

I ain't payin this penalty and I will keep up the protest until I win. Man, I'm happy to have these photos.

Protect yourself from U-Haul. Tell your clients to take photos when they finish with the rental truck.

Tell me what you think... Oh, and then have a nice day!

Rub a Gold Ring On It!

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 17:02:29 -0500

I recently was the victim of a sty in my eye-ick, right? Now, I remember my dad always said when this happens, rub a gold ring on it and it will go away. He even used to keep a gold ring in the medicine cabinet! Well, I did... and it worked. I don't know why or how, but it worked.

So what does this have to do with real estate?

Well, I've been wanting to start a newsletter to send to my email list and I thought it would be fun (along with real estate info) to include a helpful household tip-something tried and true that makes life a little easier.

Recognizing my limited knowledge :-), I'd like to open this up to you all (or "y'all" for some of you!) to contribute your fun little hints for around the house. Nothing "magical," just home remedies, cleaning helps, health helps, garden tips, etc. that might be Useful. When we have a great big list, we'll all have great tips to pass on to our mailing list!

So to start us off, here are a few:

1. Plant a banana peel right next to a rose bush-they love it!

2. Quarter an orange or other citrus fruit and run it through the garbage disposal to freshen and clean it.

3. Sprinkle coffee grounds around acid loving plants such as azaleas, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons to give them a treat.

4. To freshen your microwave, heat vanilla extract in a mug or bowl for a few seconds (don't burn it!)

5. If your heating and air conditioning unit is in an enclosed area (like a laundry room), place an air freshener near it-the scent will be gently circulated throughout the house.

6. When shopping for flowers for the garden, don't forget to add white and yellow, especially along walkways. They will brighten your garden in the evening when all the other flowers have faded into the background.

7. Stubborn stains on clothes? Lestoil directly on stains, even old ones, does the trick and usually does not fade the fabric.

I'm sure I have others but that's enough to get us started. So how about you?

What are your tips and tricks for around the house?

My Client Told Me She Was Afraid I Would Be Mean!

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 06:43:30 -0500

I just started a new staging job with a new client, a really nice woman who found me in her internet search for a home stager. We met for the initial consultation, she gave me a tour of the house, and all was going well. With a staging plan in place, as I prepared to leave, my new client said to me with such relief in her voice, "You are so nice! I was afraid you would be mean!"

Mean?

As I stood there (I'm sure with my mouth hanging open), she went on to explain. She had seen the television shows with the not-so-nice stagers who criticize people's homes and unbeknownst to me, she was nervous about inviting me in.

So, I've been contemplating this.

I've always known home sellers might be a bit anxious to have a professional home stager come into their home, telling them what they need to change in order to make their home more appealing to buyers. I always try to reassure my clients-it's not about good or bad design. It is very possible for a house to be perfectly, beautifully designed and still not appeal to the widest array of buyers. Staging takes out the seller's personal taste and lets buyers imagine themselves living there.

So, a little nervous about inviting me in, yes, I expect that. But, afraid I would be mean? I felt terrible she had this impression of stagers. I also began to wonder how many sellers (and real estate agents too, for that matter) hesitate to hire a stager because of this fear?

Don't believe everything you see on TV! The reality is this:

A stager's job is not to be mean and criticize; a stager's job is to tell you the truth about your home and its appeal to homebuyers, and then formulate a plan to make your home show as well as it possibly can. We all have the same goal: for your home to sell as fast as possible for the most money possible.

A good home stager will work with you in a positive way to bring out the best in your home and should be able to do it without giving you nightmares!

Open House: 5 Newport Lane, Willingboro, NJ Sunday, June 14, 1-4pm

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 02:53:48 -0500

Come join me for a tour of this beautiful home located in the desirable Garfield North section of Willingboro!

You will not be disappointed!

What in the World Does Weight-Loss Advice Have to Do With Selling a House?

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 01:17:22 -0500

A while back I saw on television show with doctors giving advice on weight loss. They said that yes, some people are genetically predisposed to being overweight and a large part of it is heredity. But, they said, that is not an excuse to be overweight, it just means you have to work harder.

Hmmm...

Kind of like selling a house in a tough market-- it's not that it can't be done, you just have to work harder. Yes, it may be more tough-- but that does not mean it cannot be done!

So what does working harder to get a house sold mean?

Be Committed: Be serious about selling your house. I mean, seriously serious. I mean doing what is needed to get it sold. I mean taking the advice of your agent and a home stager.
Have an "Exercise" Plan: Fix the needed repairs, update anything not from this decade, and add a fresh coat of paint.
Picture Yourself in a New Place: Get into the mindset that this house (which is no longer your home) is going to be sold-soon. Pack away whatever you can live without for the next few months, since you will be moving. (The weight-loss advice would be to get rid of the "fat clothes!")
Track Your Progress: Get feedback from your agent, be aware of market changes, know your agent's marketing plan, and make sure your home's marketing is excellent. Make sure your home is advertised, especially on the internet.
Keep Your Goal in Mind: You may have to adjust your price, or you may need to make concessions to get what you want. Keep your goal in mind-you are selling your house. Do not let anything get in the way of that goal!

There is no reason, even in a strong "buyers' market" that a home cannot sell. It needs to be priced well and it needs to show well. As in weight loss, motivation is key.

Now... if only shedding those pounds was as easy as selling a house...

How are people adding more than one primary market to their profile?

Mon, 25 May 2009 12:37:37 -0500

I don't want to limit myself to just one town and I've seen other agents appear in several towns. How do they do it?

New Listing in Willingboro, NJ Beautiful 4 BR Colonial $219,900

Mon, 18 May 2009 23:32:37 -0500

Beautifully updated Gramercy Colonial with TONS of space!

HUGE Master Bedroom was once 2 rooms and is now converted to a master suite that features a walk-in closet, seating area, and private bath. The former 2-car garage is now 3 rooms: a large family room with a lovely French door entry, a fourth bedroom, and a storage room.

Kitchen is updated with new counters, new range and oven, new fixtures and features a lovely garden window. Sliding glass doors from eat-in kitchen lead to a spacious patio overlooking a generous, well-kept backyard with a vinyl privacy fence (3 yrs old) and roomy storage shed (12x10).

Full baths have been totally updated. Most first floor windows are new; central AC unit is 3 yrs old. This gorgeous home has mostly new neutral carpeting, 9 ceiling fans for greater AC efficiency, ceramic tile flooring, and fresh, neutral paint throughout (even including the closets!). ALL lighting has been updated.

UNIQUE FLOOR PLAN! This home will stand out from the rest! CALL TODAY!

Agents: Don't hesitate to bring your buyers-- this home shows BEAUTIFULLY!

For more pictures and information, go to: http://www.realestateshows.com/403749

Need Help With Installing Shutters!

Fri, 08 May 2009 14:34:14 -0500

I'm staging a home that has a crazy red stone cement facade. The owner cannot afford siding and to play down the stone, I think the best solution is to accent the home with black shutters. The problem is drilling into the cement facade without it cracking. It's not as thick as brick but rather 1-2 inches deep. Our handyman said it would tear up his drill bits! Is that right? Are there any other suggestions? I'd appreciate any help! Thanks!

Every Home Should Be Staged for the Market-- EVERY home!

Fri, 08 May 2009 13:45:13 -0500

I am currently in the process of helping my sister prepare her home for the market. She has a beautiful home. She is an HGTV junkie. Her décor, her taste in accessories and home furnishings, and her design sense always get rave reviews from guests.

So why does she need to stage?

Because her home was not decorated for the buyer-- it was decorated for her. Everything was done to her specific taste and according to what made her feel comfortable.

Compliments from guests do not always translate into offers from buyers. Guests may be saying, "What a beautiful home!" but silently thinking, "But not for me." Studies have shown that a whopping 90% of homebuyers cannot envision themselves in a home if the décor is not to their taste. Staging does the "envisioning" for them so they can see themselves living there.

It is very difficult to stage your own home because everything is so personal to you. Know your limitations. I have seen some people effectively stage their own homes without hiring a professional. In the same way people hire contractors, electricians, or landscapers, if you can do it yourself, that's great, if not, hire a professional.

We are having lots of fun re-designing my sister's house so that it shows better for the market. It's interesting to see her home become staged. It's no longer her home, it's her most valuable commodity that needs to be marketed and sold for the most profit she can make. And all her personal decorations, mementos, souvenirs, and photos? They're being carefully packed away for her new home.

Buying a Home: What Carl and Lisa Did Right

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:14:04 -0500

Let me introduce you to Carl and Lisa. They have been married for three years, are expecting their first child, and lived in a one-bedroom apartment. It was time to buy a house!

Now let me share with you some key steps they took in their journey to homeownership, steps that ensured they got their dream home:

•· They made sure they were financially secure. For three years, Carl and Lisa have rented a one-bedroom apartment and lived below their means, saving for the day they would buy a house. The payoff: They had a healthy down-payment at closing, negotiated for closing costs from the seller, and had enough left over to purchase necessities such as appliances and furniture.

•· Their timing was perfect. With baby expected the end of June and their lease not up until May, they could comfortably close the end of March. The payoff: Having that goal in mind helped keep them on track for finding their home. Within just a few weeks, their home was found and we successfully closed the end of March, giving them the luxury of taking their time to move in-- a big stress relief!

•· They knew what they wanted. She knew she wanted a formal dining room; he knew he wanted a basement. We sat down together and talked about what they pictured in their "dream home." Her real dream: a Victorian style home with a front porch. They knew they would not likely get everything they wanted, but we kept these things in mind in our search. The payoff: They purchased a totally renovated Victorian-era farmhouse complete with a wraparound porch and they are in love with it.

•· They assembled their "dream team." Their mortgage representative was a recommended trusted friend with a reputable, local bank so their financing was secure. Prior to placing an offer, we went back for another look, this time with a few friends in tow. They brought their electrician friend, a friend who does insulation, and one who does flooring, all with varying degrees of construction knowledge. Once under contract, they hired an experienced licensed home inspector who was knowledgeable about older homes. The payoff: There were no big surprises at the home inspection and they knew exactly what they were buying.

•· They wrote a letter to the seller. If there is a chance a home has other offers, I encourage my buyers to write a letter to the seller when submitting an offer. Their letter introduced themselves to the seller, explained their situation, and shared their hopes and dreams for their new life in his home. The payoff: The letter helped my buyers keep focus as to what this house meant to them. The seller, having never received a letter like that before, was extremely touched. All negotiations after that went very smoothly. The seller agreed to make all repairs according to the home inspection, and at closing gave my buyers old pictures and history of the house, making this a very friendly transaction.

Carl and Lisa did not find a perfect home, but they found the home of their dreams. They are slowly moving in and making the new house their home. Lisa told me the other day that when there is a day she does not go to the new house, she feels a little sad! They are totally in love with it and looking forward to settling in soon, in plenty of time for baby's arrival.

They're working against me! Tricky subject...

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 15:04:24 -0600

Hi all,

I don't know if this has been addressed and it is a tricky subject! How do you handle:

1. You've staged a home, it looks great, but the realtor isn't marketing it very well? I have had cases where pictures aren't uploaded correctly, or the listing hasn't been published anywhere else but the MLS. I'm thinking of making up a "marketing checklist" for home owners but am cautious about doing something that would offend the realtors I work with.

2. The staged home receives offers within a week of staging but the owners would not come down in price. Now, months later, it's still on the market.

Also, I am also a realtor in addition to having my own staging business so I do know the market and it is most important that my fellow realtors trust me to work with their listings. I am fairly new to all this so your thoughts, tips, strategies would be much appreciated!

Michele