Amy's Blog

Cherokee, GA Chapter of RESA

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 08:27:52 -0600

I have had the privelege of being the President of the RESA Cherokee, GA Chapter. With this has come the opportunity to participate in different events. One in particular is the Holiday Show house, me and 4 other stagers worked on. It was a traditional 1.1 million dollar home with 5 bedrooms, 1 media room, keeping/breakfast, grand room, formal library and dining room.

Check out this link on the Chapter and pics from the house. Click here.

I am very proud of my colleagues that worked with me. We had real team players and professionalism in ethics and attitude.

Cathy Morrow - Room Reflections

Holly Sirois - Sold on Staging

Liz Bennett - Perfect Fit Interiors

Eddie Davenport - Transformed Rooms

Amy Powers - Accent Home Staging & Interiors

I also want to thank Karen Dembesky, our RESA State President, for coming by the home to tour and support her members.

5 Reasons why staging works

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 09:51:12 -0500

5 Reasons why staging works
(1) Professionally staged houses present better than competing houses for sale, including new houses and higher priced houses.
(2) Staged properties accelerate the list to sold time in slow markets.
(3) Staged properties can increase offers and selling prices in hot markets.
(4) Buyers’ agents recognize that professionally staged listings are "move-in" ready and are inclined to show your house.
(5) Photos of professionally staged listings look better in print and web media.

Don't Sell the Competition...Be the Competition.

5 Things to consider when hiring a stager

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 09:47:19 -0500

home staging (hom stag’jing) n. 1. The process of preparing your property for sale by setting the scene throughout the house to create immediate buyer interest in your property. 2. Proven way to increase the chances of your property selling in a timely manner. <From Real Estate Staging Association>

5 Things to consider when hiring a stager
(1) Watch out for Accredidation - any one can be accreditted if they pay the money, but that does not make for a great stager.
(2) What is their strategy? Consultation. Vacancies. Occupied homes. Is it clear?
(3) Are they a member of a network or association, for example RESA or ASHSR?
(4) Are they committed to community projects?
(5) Interview your stager. Verify their references, view their portfolio and understand their contract. Make sure your professional stager will meet your deadlines and expectations. Get it in writing! Make sure your project is outlined with fees, timelines, expectations, cancellation policies etc.

Your staging experience should be a positive one. Professional stagers are trained to see what you can’t see. Remember that staging is not about YOU or your personal taste. It is simply about merchandising your property to appeal to more buyers, increasing the chances of selling in a timely manner.

Don't Sell the Competition...Be the Competition.

5 "Insider" Tips on getting a home ready for the market.

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 09:42:00 -0500

Don't Sell the Competition...Be the Competition.

Fall in not so hot Metro-Atlanta

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 09:36:14 -0500

My favorite time of year is knocking on the door. Fall! The crisp air, cool nights, trips to the mountains, apple pies and beautiful colors, a design palate worth noticing.

This year, fall will be extremely fun for me. I am in a play called Halloween Dreams, ironically directed by a fellow stager, Andrea Redd. It is at the Acworth, Theater on Main. The show will be playing October 3 - 26. It is a fun family show, a series of murders have occurred and Chestnut Hollow must find the killer before Halloween.

Also, I was just offered a role in The Reddoor Playhouse Improv Troupe in Roswell, GA. If you ever enjoyed, "Who's Line Is It Anyway", you enjoyed Improv. Our first performance is Sept. 27.

As the leaves begin to drop and your season's change, I encourage you to notice the beauty and fun around you. I would love for you to see one of the performances mentioned above.

On a professional note, if you need an experienced Home Stager, call Amy Powers today @ 678-978-1377.

Turn Key Events & Accent Home Staging of Atlanta

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:22:40 -0500

NEW! Turn Key Events: Open House Coordination

In today's market your home needs to be a step above the competition. Open House special events will give you the competitive edge you need.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PRLog (Press Release) – Aug 27, 2008 – Accent Home Staging is proud to announce a valuable element in getting High-End Real Estate sold - Turn Key Events.

Turn Key Events are especially designed OPEN HOUSES for homes ranging from $500K to over $1 Million. Accent Home Staging is extending their quality Home Staging services for homes in higher price points and is partnering with Eclectage Events.

Turn Key Events are customized for each listing, alon g with Expert Staging for your occupied, vacant or model home, these events will assure a fast turn around on any Residential Real Estate Property. Eclectage Events will plan and execute your Turn Key Event or Open House.

Choose from these themes, a combination of themes or suggest a new idea for your Turn Key Event or Open House:

* Candles & Cake
* Wine & Cheese
* Elegant Ambiance
* Opera or Instrumental Quartet Night
* Gala Events for Fundraisers
* Jazz, Art and Martini Night

Don't sell the Competition...BE the Competition.

Accent Home Staging, www.AccentHomeStaging.biz
Eclectage Events, www.EclectageEvents.com

We are Greater Atlanta's Professional Real Estate Staging and Interior Decor Firm. We are dedicated to your needs, your budget and your goals - whether you are a Homeowner, Home Builder or Real Estate Professional.

Faux Food Fanciers Find Finer Faux OR Contest Winner Announcement

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:01:00 -0500

Amy Powers - Wins Honorable Mention in National Home Staging Faux Food Contest -

Accent Home Staging, Atlanta, GA - Professional Home Stager

Via Terrylynn Fisher Realtor-Staging Consultant-StagersLIST:

This is not a discussion about whether to faux or not to faux... Our opinions on that topic have appeared in many other blog posts, however after viewing these contest entries some of you might reconsider. Without further ado this is ...dah, dah, dot dah dah...

Announcing the results of the StagersLIST faux food contest and winner of $100 of StagersLIST faux food from our website. (That's a lot of faux...)

The photos down the side are thumbnails, if you'd like to see the full photos in the room settings for perspective, please visit www.StagersLISTContests.com and view the whole layout.

There were 16 entries ...as you can see they were all amazing and tastefully done for the settings they were used in. We loved collecting them all and only CHRIS knew who they belonged to and we didn't let her vote. (Actually it's been a long 6 weeks having her mouth taped shut so she's happy it's over too.)

The winner is: Mary DeBella of Northwest Staging and ReDesign! Congratulations, Mary! Here is the winning photo:

Kathi Presutti was a very close second with this photo:

Honorable mention goes to Lachelle Johnson, Amy Powers, Michelle Kaspari... and the others were close behind. We really did have a hard time voting, the entries were so well done. Thank you so much, all who participated! Thanks also to our charter partners for taking the time to vote.

Congratulations Mary, now it's time for you to go shopping at StagersLIST.com and pick out your $100 worth of free faux!

Terrylynn Fisher

RESA - August Meeting in Cherokee County & Surrounding Areas

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:55:34 -0500

RESA (Real Estate Staging Association) was formed early in 2007 in order to support all professional Real Estate Stagers in North America regardless of their designations, backgrounds or training. RESA is a portal to the staging industry and is a source of education and business tools focusing on the needs of stagers.

MISSION STATEMENT: Cherokee County Chapter of RESA is to provide a stable networking environment for all members, a brainstorming of hot topics that effect our industry and a unified presence in Cherokee County as we submit ourselves as professionals to the REALTORS, Builders, Sellers and Investors through community projects and marketing.

Please RSVP by August 18, 2008. Call 678-978-1377 for location and more information.

Meeting Topics for 2008:
August - Intro to RESA, Special Guest Laure' Gill - Reborn Rooms, TLC, HGTV - Local successful Stager to share her ideas.
September - Accountant Advice, Special Guest Shannon Smith
October - Meeting at FLOORCO of Woodstock, view Showroom and learn about current market trends.
November - Cambridge Walk Subdivision, RESA Community Project (date may not be 3rd Thursday, TBD)
December - Christmas Party (date may not be 3rd Thursday, TBD)

House Market Update & Home Staging in Atlanta

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 20:21:42 -0500

FYI!

Last week, President Bush signed into law the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, which includes a number of elements designed to "jump start" our sluggish housing market! The centerpiece of the law is
a temporary, $7,500 first-time home buyer tax credit for the purchase of any home. The tax credit can be used for homes purchased between April 9, 2008 and July 1, 2009, and is expected to provide a significant-and
temporary-financial incentive for home buyers.

"The tax credit is the best stimulative measure," said one industry expert and added "It will increase housing demand, get home buyers back into the marketplace and fight falling home prices, which threaten the economy as a whole."

How does this help those of us that are not first-time home buyers? Well, I am glad you asked! This measure will pump new home buyers into the market, which will allow our current Sellers to become move up home buyers! From there, it will be a chain reaction that should put us on a path towards recovery!!

The National Association of Home Builders has launched a new website, www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com , which includes a set of comprehensive questions and answers about how the credit works and how consumers can put
it to their advantage. Please click over and take a look and pass it along to anyone you know, who might be able to use this tax advantage to make their dreams of home ownership a reality.

While you're at it, with new buyer incentives, if you know of anyone selling their home, have them call Accent Home Staging at 678-978-1477 or visit www.accenthomestaging.biz for details. Serving Metro Atlanta! It would be a privilege to serve any of your referrals!

Amy Powers, Owner

Accent Home Staging

Don't Sell the Competition...BE the Competition.

What does my tagline mean?

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:57:28 -0500

Taglines are very important. A tagline is a variant of a branding slogan typically used in marketing materials and advertising. The idea behind the concept is to create a memorable phrase that will sum up the tone and premise of a brand or product, or to reinforce the audience's memory of a product. The tagline for Accent Home Staging is:

Don't Sell the Competition...BE the Competition.

Recently, I was quizzed on what that actually means. So, here is my answer.

What is the competition? The competition is every home out there in the same price point of your listing, be it new or resell. It could be the 5 other homes in the same subdivsion or the 35 homes in a 5 miles radius. All of which are equally matched. For a builder, it is all the new homes in surrounding subdivisions.

What is "Don't Sell the Competition"? When a listing is not at its best, not "Market Ready", it allows other homes in the area to sell. It is basically helping the homes around it sell easier because of its condition. I was working with a Realtor on a listing, the Seller was not 100% convinced on staging. The Realtor then showed her a home for sell in her subdivison that was "Market Ready". She quickly realized that if she did not address the areas Accent Home Staging recommended, then that home was going to sell faster and for more money.

What is "BE the Competition"? When your listing has been "Certified Market Ready" by Accent Home Staging it is the competition. There will be very few homes that will match the quality of a well staged home. Recently, Accent Home Staging staged a home in a subdivision that had several other homes for sale. It took about 8 hours to get the home "Certified Market Ready". The home had 4 offers in less than 30 days. It was the competition!

Accent Home Staging will help you sell your listings, vacant or occupied. We are equally qualified in Model Home staging as well. Please call Accent Home Staging so we can help your listings...

BE the Competition.

Answers by Amy: Vacancy, Occupied or Model Homes

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 01:38:58 -0500

I often get questions about the types of staging Accent Home Staging can provide for different sellers. Here is the answer.

Vacancies: Vacancies are important to stage. An empty room can appear to be smaller, yes, smaller. It lacks definition and most buyers are not visual, so furniture arrangement is necessary to give the space form and function. The process for vacancies, include:
(1) Vacant Consultation: we come in access the space, make suggestions on wall color, flooring and any other indoor/outdoor items that need attention.
(2) Furniture Selection: we use a professional furniture rental company, Brooks Furniture Rental. The quality of the furniture matches any price point and the local office offers Accent Home Staging an excellent discount. We do not up the price, but share that pricing advantage with all our clients.
(3) Home Staging: we schedule the date of delivery to match the day we come into stage the home. This saves your client money, because Brooks Furniture Rental unloads and places the inventory for us, including art work. This saves time and allows us to focus on accessorizing.
(4) Open House: we included one complimentary (with advanced notice) OPEN HOUSE sweep. We will return to the home one time at no additional charge prior to an OPEN HOUSE. We will tweak anything that may be out of order to assure the home is ready for the market at an OPEN HOUSE.

Occupied: Occupied homes are the most common. Unlike the vacancy, too much furniture and clutter can also make the space seem smaller and poorly maintained. We excell in getting occupied homes ready. The process for occupied homes, include:
(1) Detailed Consultation Report: this is the bread and butter to the seller of an occupied home. We come into their home and visit every room and create a staging plan customized to their space. We recommend furniture and accessory elimination or addition.
(2) Home Staging: after the client has had an opportunity to review the report, we schedule the staging. The benefit of the report gives the client an option as to how much or little assistance is needed from Accent Home Staging depending on their financial goals and time frame.
(3) Tweak Consult: if the client decides to do the majoirity of the work on their own, we have found it to be very successful for them to ask us to come by one to two hours after they are finished to review the changes, modify changes and add little touches. Our little touches (trade secrets) really do help give each space a welcoming feel.
(4) Open House: as with the vacancy, we included one complimentary (with advanced notice) OPEN HOUSE sweep. We will return to the home one time at no additional charge prior to an OPEN HOUSE. We will tweak anything that may be out of order to assure the home is ready for the market at an OPEN HOUSE.

Model Homes: are very much like vacancies. We can rent furniture or we can purchase furniture for Builders. The advantage to purchasing furniture is two fold: (1) the builder can reuse the furniture in another Model Home or (2) the furniture can be sold with the Model Home as an additional incentive to the buyer.

Now, you have a detailed explanation of our process for Vacancies, Occupied and Model Homes. For more information including pricing, please call Accent Home Staging at 678-978-1377.

Don't Sell the Competition...Be the Competition!
Thanks for sending your questions to Answers by Amy

Seriously...

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 14:48:04 -0500

My daughter is six years old and her new favorite word is "seriously". She says it in almost every sentence. I am going to adopt her word for one moment. Seriously, we are in a unique market that requires unique attention to Real Estate listings.

Accent Home Staging's Team of professional Real Estate Stagers are trained to help you market your listings. We are sensitive to your sellers financial needs and strive to remain in their budget, while simultaneously turning their home into a desireable Real Estate Product.

When it comes down to it, Accent Home Staging is serious about getting homes sold. Seriously!

Realtor Partnership Program
In early 2008, we began our Realtor Partnership Program. The idea was conceived when hints of a rough housing market began. After discussing ideas from other stagers across the country and networking with local Realtors, it was perfected. We are pleased to say that it has proven to be a win:win for Realtors, sellers and Accent Home Staging.

Our Realtor Partnership Program is designed with your Agency's needs in mind. Real Estate Staging can help you sell your listings in this challenging market.

We have modified our prices to help you maintain a competitive edge. Our Client Consultation is a great value at $100 (reg. $250). We come in and make suggestions on every aspect of the home (inside & outside). We can be the "bad guys" on necessary improvements. We will prioritize your listings to meet Open House and Listing Deadlines.

Please call us today at 678-978-1377 for more information or to schedule a Client Consultation today.

Don't Sell the Competition...Be the Competition!

Approved As A Service Magic Professional

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:03:56 -0500

Recently I was approved in the ServiceMagic network of home services professionals! It is very exciting. ServiceMagic.com is the best source for prescreened and customer-rated service professionals. ServiceMagic.com offers homeowners trusted professionals with background checks, reference checks and insurance verification.

When a contractor is screened using our 10-Point Verification Process, you receive all the information you wanted to know but weren’t sure where to find. After all, just look at everything they do for homeowners.

1:	Verify Trade License
	we check to see if the business carries the appropriate state-level license to perform the type of work submitted in the Screen-A-Pro request
2:	Verify Insurance
	we contact the insurance agent of the pro to obtain a certificate of general liability insurance (or bonding information for maid service, or cargo valuation coverage for moving companies).
3:	Verification of State Business Filings
	for business types that require a Secretary of State filing, we confirm that the business is in good standing in the state in which it is located. This check applies to all corporations and Limited Liability Companies (LLC’s).
4:	Criminal Records Search
	we use 3rd party data sources to conduct a criminal search for any criminal activity associated with the owner/principal of the business.
5:	Sex Offender Search
	in the state in which the owner/principal of the company is located, we check the state’s Sex Offender web site, looking for a match on the name of the owner/principal of the company.
6:	Identity Verification (SSN)
	We verify social security numbers of the owner/principal for identity check purposes. This check applies primarily to smaller business entities.
7:	Identity Verification (Reverse Phone Lookup)
	We conduct a reverse business phone lookup to confirm that the phone number provided matches the phone listing for the business.
8:	Search for Aliases
	We search state DBA (Doing Business As) records in the state in which the business is located to provide any aliases under which the business or owner is doing business.
9:	Legal Search for Civil Judgments
	we use 3rd party data sources to check the principal / owner of the business for state-level civil legal judgments entered against them and to check for bankruptcy filings by or against them.
10:	Verify Customer References
	we request and contact previous customer references provided by the business to solicit performance feedback from consumers with whom the pro has worked.

Cherokee County Home Stagers - Unite with RESA (Real Estate Staging Association)

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 23:46:56 -0500

Dear Cherokee County Professional Home Stager,

My name is Amy Powers. I lived in Woodstock, GA. In February 2008, I was appointed as the President of the Cherokee County Chapter of RESA (Real Estate Staging Association). I am the principle owner of Accent Home Staging of Atlanta. I have been in the Real Estate Staging industry for a little over one year. You may have recently read about RESA coming to Cherokee County in this spring’s Cherokee Ledger: Special Real Estate Edition.

I joined RESA because I was attracted to their principles. RESA was formed early in 2007 in order to support all professional real estate stagers in North America regardless of their designations, backgrounds or training. RESA is a portal to the staging industry and is a source of education and business tools focusing on the needs of stagers.

Two items that specifically caught my interest are:

(1) They want to support ALL home stagers. They are not tied down by any of the large ‘Training’ companies. They are independent.

(2) RESA desires to streamline the industry. When new industries are created they are either unregulated or government regulated. Unregulated industries often experience a lack of consistency and standards, a lack of ethics, and renegade practices. Government regulated industries typically arise from the need to protect the public or when un-regulated industries become so unmanageable the government needs to step in to correct it. RESA wants to pattern themselves after the REALTORS® Association.

With so many accreditations and certifications available there has not been an independent professional association to step up to the plate and say hey – we need to be on the same page. This gives our industry credibility, accountability, a higher level of professionalism and acceptance.

In 1998, I started an interior decorating business, Accents by Amy. I took some time off to home school my children. In 2006, I fell in love with the idea of Home Staging and started Accent Home Staging in 2007. I have several years experience as a leader through my involvement in MOPS (mothers of preschoolers). I was over AL, GA, MS and Western Europe for several years. I learned the importance of branding, marketing, public speaking, project management, continuing education and most importantly how to encourage those around me. I offer my experience and enthusiasm in home staging and leadership to you as the Cherokee County Chapter President of RESA.

My goal for the Cherokee County Chapter of RESA is to provide a stable networking environment for all members, a brainstorming of hot topics that effect our industry and a unified presence in Cherokee County as we submit ourselves as professionals to the REALTORS®, Builders, Sellers and Investors through community projects and marketing.

“Networking Volunteerism” is the most effective way to get you in front of your target audience: REALTORS^®. By aligning yourself with RESA and participating in chapter events you will gain exposure for your business in the community and meet the professionals that you want to work with. By participating with RESA you will be viewed as a leader in your community and profession. Real Estate agents have been mixing with each other at association meetings for over 70 years and it is now time for stagers to do the same.

Real Estate Agents are very involved in their trade associations and marketing groups. They understand the importance of supporting their trade association. RESA chapters are part of your trade association and by joining a chapter you can now speak the same language as the Realtors.

If you are interested in joining RESA’s Cherokee County Chapter, membership is $120/year. With this membership you earn discounts to national vendors, on-line directory, marketing assistance, logo use and many other benefits. For all the details on RESA’s benefits, goals, values and vision as you make this important decision for your professional Real Estate staging business, visit www.realestatestagingassociation.com

We will be having our next meeting the third Thursday evening in July (07/17). It will be at the Serene Bean in the downtown square of Woodstock at 7 pm. Our special guest will be, Kathy Neilson, the new SE Regional Vice President of RESA. Bring your burning questions and let’s have a great time!

I look forward to hearing from you and sharing the experience of bringing Real Estate Staging to a new level in Cherokee County. My number is 678-978-1377, please feel free to call.

Sincerely,

Amy Powers

RESA Chapter President

Cherokee County, GA

Trying to stay ahead of the game, have a question.

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:18:03 -0500

As a Realtor, can you answer these questions for me:

What would make it most likely for you to hire a Real Estate or Home Stager?
What pricing "deals" would make you scramble?
Why would you not use a stager?
Have you ever used a stager?
Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of Real Estate Staging?

The Real Estate Staging industry in Hot 'Lanta is a wild fire. There are multiple training agencies, accredidations, etc. But ultimately the only ones that are successful are the ones who stay ahead of the game by noting market trends, industry trends and doing a great job.

Accent Home Staging does just that, we stay above the water by emphasizing education. Product education, pricing education and professional education. I send my employees to continueing ed classes at a local university or to trade shows and encourage constantly checking out trends online.

It is a great business and I love every aspect of it and love my job. I always want to do my best. I want to help Realtors stay focused on marketing and selling in this unique market and be their "bad guy".

Thank you for taking a few moments to answer these questions.

Amy Powers

Ice Cubes On Carpet

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 23:01:07 -0500

After moving around furniture, place an ice cube in remaining indentions. Once the ice cube 1/2 way melts, fluff up the carpet with a comb/pick. It will look like it was never indented. It is an amazing "secret" that I have used many times. It is quick, easy and cost $0. How amazing is that!

Accent Home Staging of Atlanta * www.accenthomestaging.biz * 678-978-1377

Pricing Home Staging in Metro-Atlanta

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 22:32:58 -0500

Pricing Home Staging in Metro-Atlanta

Monday, June 9, 2008

Accent Home Staging is priced with any sellers budget in mind from 100K to 1M+ dollars. We have done them all. I am proud of the big picture and that is to help my community come through this rough housing market and high gas price phase with a smile on my face because more homes were sold at their best price through Accent Home Staging.

I recently received some information on other prices in the area for staging services and was floored at how competitive our services really are in Metro-Atlanta. We are professional and offer EXTREME quality and you don't have to cut off a couple of EXTREMITIES to stage your home with Accent Home Staging.

Call today at 678-978-1377!

(c) 2008 Accent Home Staging.
Located in Woodstock, GA. Serving Metro Atlanta.

Real Estate Staging has never been more necessary!

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 22:31:09 -0500

Real Estate Staging has never been more necessary!

I have been through many homes this season and one thing is for sure - there are some ok homes and there are homes that really could use some umph! Homes selling for 1m+ and for 100k+.

If I am staging a home in a subdivision, you can guarantee it will be the nicest, most appealing home to every type of buyer that walks through the door. A seller or Realtor can be confident that it has reached its maximum potential.

Using creative techniques, it is exciting to turn a nice home into a Certified Market Ready professionally staged home.

Staging is necessary because the market is so saturated and you do not want your listing to sell the competition but to BE THE COMPETITION.

Growing Real Estate Staging Company

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 22:26:58 -0500

Accent Home Staging is the Fastest Growing Real Estate Business in Metro Atlanta

We are growing - why? Because we know exactly how to market your home. As a matter of fact we "Certify Market Ready" your home. To be certified market ready, we declutter, depersonalize and decorate the space to show its maximum potential to "every" type of buyer. It is an exciting transformation for the seller to see their space change.

We often hear -"now I don't want to move, it looks so perfect". We take a great deal of pride and it is contagious. Check us out and let's get your home "Certified Market Ready".

Question?

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:03:06 -0500

I need a bit of advice. My staging company just started a realtor program and it is starting to get some good feedback. I had a realtor ask me about ways they can purchase my services. I thought of three ways:

The client can pay upfront
The agent can pay upfront
The agent can pay upfront and have the seller pay for it at the time of closing

Do you have any further ideas? I am interested in the best way to approach this with a Realtor who is interested in using my services on a regular basis. We already charge less for the consultation in this program.

Thanks,

Local Home Staging Chapter of National Association begins in Cherokee County

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 10:33:51 -0600

This week in Cherokee County the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) launched its first Chapter in Cherokee County. RESA already has a strong base in Metro-Atlanta, but now the growing numbers of Home Stagers in Cherokee County can participate with networking, professionalism and continuing education in their local area.

RESA's goals are:

To be the source of support and business tools for Professional Stagers.
To be looked upon by Real Estate Organizations as the Authority of Staging.
To form local chapters where needed to provide support to Stagers.
To actively educate Real Estate agents and Home Owners the value of Staging.
To ensure Staging becomes main stream within the Real Estate industry.
To advance professionalism and excellence in Real Estate Staging.

For Immediate Release

(Local Real Estate Stagers Charter Chapter)

CHEROKEE COUNTY

(Woodstock, GA — February 6, 2008) The Real Estate Staging Association “RESA” has officially launched their charter chapter of Cherokee County in the city of Woodstock, GA.

RESA is the portal to the staging industry and is the source of education and business tools focused on the needs of real estate stagers. A group of local business women have launched the Cherokee County RESA Chapter servicing all of Cherokee County. The chapter will provide peer to peer support for the chapter members as well as promoting education to real estate agents, home owners and the general public regarding the value and benefits of Staging. RESA is the only Staging Association in North America that supports all stagers regardless of their designations, training and backgrounds.

RESA members have a rainbow of designations, affiliations and backgrounds that will serve their clients best interest by providing honest feedback on what steps should be taken in order to sell their property in the shortest amount of time while tapping into the properties hidden equity.

The following member was elected into office:

Amy Powers, Cherokee County Chapter President

For more information on RESA members in Cherokee County or how to join the Cherokee County Chapter, please call Amy Powers at 678-978-1377.

The Cherokee County Chapter is affiliated with the Real Estate Staging Association. For more information visit www.RealEstateStagingAssociation.com or call 888-201-8687.

Amy Powers,
RESA Cherokee County Chapter President
Owner, Professional Home Stager
Accent Home Staging

http://www.accenthomestaging.biz/
amy.powers@aphsr.com
678-978-1377

Home Stager in Atlanta, GA Talks about Localism

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 10:28:53 -0600

Localism
After a successful day of home staging, home schooling their children (they each have two), housekeeping, spending time with family and volunteering, Laura and Amy of Accent Home Staging are not the type of women that sit around all day and watch television.

Community Theater: No, they would rather be the ones creating the drama. Drama Queens in their own right, they are both regular participants at the Towne Lake Arts Center, a non-profit community theater, located in Woodstock, GA. Laura has been in many productions over the last few years, including: Fiddler on the Roof, Canterville Ghost and Anne of Green Gables. In 2007, Amy became a member of the first Improv Troupe called TLAC-IT. She is on tour with the troupe to all the schools in Cherokee County bringing the performing arts to them. Pictures are courtesy of the Towne Lake Arts Center, (c) 2007.
Local Associations: Understanding the importance of professionalism, high standards and networking Laura and Amy are members on a local level of two different Home Staging Associations and one online network.

Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) - In January of 2008, Amy was asked to be the President of the Cherokee County Chapter.
American Society of Home Stagers and Redesigners (ASHSR)
StageItForward

Where do we find the time?
This is a question they are often asked. They do it by reaching out one person, one step and one day at a time to encourage, equip and establish quality of life to those around them.

As business owners of Accent Home Staging, Laura and Amy desire to grow a business in order to help make a better community. They set the bar high in the business world by regularly giving of their time, their talents and their money to many organizations in their community.

They believe their professional services can only benefit their community. Strong home selling prices create value and ultimately draw the best businesses, amenities and people to our area – Creating A Viable Economy.

Home Stager in Atlanta, GA Talks about Volunteerism

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 10:25:07 -0600

Accent Home Staging, Partners Amy Powers & Laura Jones.

Setting a High Standard in Metro Atlanta

Their business is a big part of their life, but it's not the only or most important part.
As active participants in their community Laura and Amy value volunteerism and localism.

Volunteerism
Laura and Amy are very like minded in their services to the community, they have worked in many volunteer efforts together. They each share a desire to volunteer and give back to the community. The three primary non-profits they have worked with are:

MOPS International since 2002 - 2007:

Laura participated in a local MOPS ministry working with mothers of preschoolers, she ran the MOPPETS Program (for the preschoolers) for several years for over 120 families. She later became a Team Leader focusing on building one-on-one relationships with young moms in order to identify ways to best meet their needs. She was a valuable Mentor for the women in the program.
Amy began her volunteer career in MOPS as a Creative Activities Coordinator, teaching fun and easy art, decorative or practical projects to encourage moms to explore their wild side. She then became the Publicity Coordinator and later a Coordinator over the first MOPS@nite program in the area for Single and Working mothers of preschoolers. In 2003, she became a Council Coordinator for MOPS International and in 2005 became the Area Coordinator (AC) for Western Europe, Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. As an AC, she was responsible for educating, encouraging and leading the 300+ Steering Teams and 12 Field Leaders to be the best moms and leaders they can be through local, national and international opportunities. A fun task that equipped her for today's work in Accent Home Staging.

AWANA Programs since 2002:

Laura and Amy are very active at their church, providing volunteer time in the children's AWANA program.

UPWARD Sports since 2004:

Both Laura & Amy team up every year to coach Basketball in the UPWARD program. Yes, basketball! Laura uses her high school 'All-Star' basketball experience in coaching and Amy does whatever Laura ask her to, HA!. They work very well together. Laura has also co-coached flag football. Amy has ventured out and was the first Soccer Commissioner for UPWARD in her area and in 2007 coached cheer leading.

Local Home Staging Company Announces Program to Aid in Spiraling Housing Market Trend

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 12:33:34 -0600

Local Home Staging Company Announces Program to Aid in Spiraling Housing Market Trend

“Accent Home Staging takes on slowing housing market with plan to help Realtors sell their listings quickly and for more money. Their goal is to help the Real Estate Market in Cherokee County and surrounding North Metro Atlanta communities return to the days of a healthier and viable economy.”

Woodstock, GA January 14, 2006 – Accent Home Staging, founded last year, begins competitive Realtor Partnership Program to encourage better resale values in Cherokee County and surrounding North Metro Atlanta communities. The Metro Atlanta market is very competitive. New homes for sale are competing with pre-owned properties and there is continued risk of downward trending house prices due to the slowing housing market. Home staging brings stronger home selling prices, creates value and at the end of the day draws the best businesses, amenities and people to our surrounding areas - creating a viable economy.

In the latest report by Les Christie, CNNMoney.com staff writer,

“The United States is deep in its worst housing slump since the Great Depression, and according to a new report, it's not going to get better any time soon.

In a new survey, Moody's Economy.com says many metro areas will record losses of 20 percent or more during the downturn, with the national median price for single-family homes dropping 13 percent through early 2009. Factoring in discount offers from sellers, the actual price decline would be well over 15 percent.

Eighty of the 381 metro areas covered by the report will record double-digit losses, according to the report. Most of the worst-hit markets are in once high-flying areas.

Another factor was excessive new home construction, especially in once hot markets. As prices skyrocketed, builders rushed to take advantage of the increases, contributing to the now high inventories.”

Accent Home Staging views Real Estate Agents as the strength and driving force in the effort to prevent or soften the effects of the slowing housing market. Their desire is to help Real Estate Agencies sell their listings quickly and at the highest possible prices. In today’s housing market, Accent Home Staging knows their professional services will ultimately benefit the entire community.

Accent Home Staging’s Realtor Partnership Program is a tool to consider in today’s competitive market. Every successful Realtor understands the key ingredients to sell a house quickly and for top dollar. These ingredients include: well priced listings, a desirable location and visually appealing listings for potential buyers. Accent Home Staging can help significantly with the last and most controllable ingredient.

The Realtor Partnership Program includes: Fixed and Lowered Consultation and Staging Prices, Priority Scheduling, Post-Staging MLS Photos, Rapid Edit Staging for Open Houses, 'Lunch & Learns' for Agency Staff, Network of Reliable Contractors, Accent Home Staging’s Team of Accredited Professional Home Stagers and Redesigners, Special Open House Detailing and more.

Partner Laura Jones says, "Let us be the ‘heavies’ or bad guys so you can focus on selling your listing and maintain the right relationship with your Client”. Accent Home Staging is trained to efficiently communicate the benefits of home staging to your Client, encouraging them with tax free incentives, higher asking prices and unlikelihood of price reductions. Home staging is not decorating. It is the art of de-cluttering and depersonalizing a home for sale, making it marketable to any type of buyer. Home staging costs significantly less than you think.

For additional information on the Realtor Partnership Program, contact Amy Powers or visit www.AccentHomeStaging.biz

About Accent Home Staging:

We are a licensed and insured Home Staging, Redesign and Organization business in Woodstock, GA serving ALL of North Metro Atlanta. Business partners, Amy Powers and Laura Jones, have been active members of the Woodstock community for over 8 years with their husbands and children. They both volunteer as coaches in their local UPWARD sports program. They have served in their communities as leaders and mentors to mothers of preschoolers (MOPS International) and other organizations. Laura is involved with theatrical productions at the Towne Lake Arts Center (TLAC), Amy is a part of the TLAC Improv Troupe (TLAC-I.T.). They are a trustworthy team that values problem solving, professionalism, localism and creativity.

Members of American Society of Home Stagers and Redesigners (ASHSR), ActiveRain Real Estate Network, Stage It Forward, MerchantCircle and Accredited Professional Home Stagers and Redesigners (APHSR).

Contact:

Amy Powers, Partner/Owner
Amy.Powers@aphsr.com

Accent Home Staging
678-978-1377
http://www.AccentHomeStaging.com

Press Release

Amy Powers Home Staging in Atlanta, GA (Accent Home Staging & Interiors) — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 22:36:40 -0600

Yesterday and today I worked on sending out a press release to local newspapers in regard to a new program my company is putting together. I am a part of a free networking group for entrepreneurs called StartUpNation.com. They had some really great advice on how to write a press release. Anyway, I thought I'd share their info with you. It may help someone, especially someone just starting up.