Minneapolis Home Staging Blog - KFM Staging & Design

Falling in Love... with a House

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 10:25:53 -0500

After several blog postings of home staging tips, techniques, and examples, it was time to revisit WHY home staging helps houses to sell. So, put on your lab coats, we are dissecting the science behind the falling in love with a house.

THE HUMAN BODY: Several chemical and physical reactions occur in the body when it encounters something it loves - pupils dilate, heart rate increases, and endorphins (happy hormones) flood the blood stream. Now, this may all seem very "unromantic," but these reactions trigger an emotional response which creates a memorable experience for buyers who are visiting your house.

THE EMOTIONAL RESPONSE: Studies indicate that buyers decide within 5 seconds of seeing a house if they like it or not. I believe that the emotional response when purchasing is instantaneous. Whether buyers like, dislike, or are indifferent about the property they are viewing, they have drawn a conclusion about the house from their immediate emotional reaction. This is exactly why home staging is essential.

THE HOME STAGING FACTOR: The purpose of home staging in the selling process is to create an environment in the house that buyers will (literally) love. Using stylish furnishing and design principles, home staging sets the scene for what life will be like when THIS house is purchased while re-enforcing the emotional connection for buyers.

Understanding the physical response to a positive experience restates the necessity of home staging in today's market. So stage your house, put it on the market, and let the love fest begin!

KFM Staging & Design is a Minnesota home staging company that creates "First Impressions that Sell" in the Twin Cites and Western Wisconsin. KFM specializes in vacant staging and staging consultations. Visit our website for staging tips or to schedule your in-home or online consultation.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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A Closet Shopper

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 14:15:54 -0500

Staging a house during a recession may make sellers cringe at the thought of spending money just to "decorate" a house. Although some purchases may be beneficial, most homeowner can shop for free in their very own cupboards and closets. Take a look at some no-cost decorating/staging ideas below.

BATHROOM COUNTER DECOR:

Rolled hand towels
Basket of mini soaps and lotions
Decorative bottles
Candles
Vase and flowers

The photo to the right displays two hand towels arranged on the counter for added color and softness to this area.

KITCHEN COUNTER DECOR:

Large pepper mill and salt shaker
Jars of flour, sugar, etc.
Glass vase with various color beans
Platters from China set
Cookbooks
Fresh fruit

This kitchen (pictured left) is staged using fruit and decorative dishes.

MASTER BEDROOM DECOR:

Neutral photo frames
Throw blankets
Extra pillows
Empty jewelry box

The master bedroom in the photograph to the right was given an instant headboard using photo frames.

Hard times may call for drastic measures, but when sellers use their imagination and shop in their own cupboards and closets, they may save themselves a lot of money when staging their home.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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A Balancing Act

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 09:54:08 -0600

Home staging has been identified as a key component to preparing houses for sale. Professional stagers have been known to beautifully redesign a living room within minutes of stepping into the space, leaving home owners scratching their heads and muttering, "Why didn't I think of this before?"

The truth is, there is a fine art (yes, art) to the act of rearranging furniture and setting home accents in "just the right place." More than having good taste in decorating, stagers follow proven design principles that show off the individual layout of a house and highlight the features of each room. To accomplish these tasks, stagers perform a "balancing act" that equally distributes visual weight around the room.

In the photo below, the buffet and glass cabinet AND art work AND lack of space on the opposite wall create an over-crowded and unbalanced room that weighs heavy to the right. Off-centered to the light fixture, the improper placement of the table adds to the uneven representation of this room.

Removing the buffet and cabinet allows the table to be centered under the light fixture and with the window. Eliminating the large furniture pieces also creates a "lighter feeling" on the right wall which results in balanced visual weight with the opposite wall.

Rearranging and/or eliminating furniture while staging serves a specific purpose when preparing your home for the market. When properly placed, your furniture will accentuate the positive characteristics of each room.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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2298 Amberwood Drive - Woodbury, MN

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:53:22 -0600

2298 Amberwood Drive, Woodbury, MN MLS: 3643596 $219,900

Updated throughout, this Woodbury twin home is located in the Timberlea Estates development, minutes from retail establishments and down town St. Paul. This open floor plan allows for counter top seating and formal dining. With an abundance of natural lighting, this home is flooded with a cheery atmosphere.

The open floor plan continues into the formal living room that boasts freshly painted walls of a clean color palette. With plenty of space, this room is perfect for entertaining friends or just relaxing with family.

Adjacent to the living room is a sun-filled four season porch with French doors and gas fireplace. A walk-out to the deck over looks the beautiful fenced-in back yard.

Additional Features:

Three bedrooms on upper level, two bathrooms
Lower level family room with fireplace and brick surround
Den with walk-out to paved patio
Updated bathrooms including ceramic tile surround
Freshly painted with a neutral color palette

For more information on this listing, visit Woodbury Real Estate

Realtor Contact Information: Jasminka Chan, a preferred Edina Realty Realtor

Home staging for this property was provided by KFM Staging & Design, "Creating First Impressions that Sell" in the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin. For home staging tips or to schedule your in-home or online consultation, visit our website at http://www.kfmstaging.com/.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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674 Eben Court - Stillwater, MN

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:48:04 -0600

674 Eben Court, Stillwater, MN MLS: 3622942 $379,900

Beautifully detailed, this single family home is located in the desirable Liberty on the Lake neighborhood of Stillwater, Minnesota.

Warm cherry cabinetry compliment the luster of granite counter tops in this exquisite kitchen, while the stainless steel appliances contribute to the upscale environment.

Built-in bookshelves highlight the gas fireplace in this main-level living room. Adjacent to this area is a walk-out to the deck, offering stunning views of backyard landscaping.

Additional Features:

Three bedrooms with main-level master suite, three bathrooms
Eat-in kitchen with hard wood flooring and formal dining room
Lower level family room with built-in bar area
Deck with nature views of wooded back yard
Over 2,800 finished square feet of living space
And much, much more!

For more information on this listing, visit Stillwater Real Estate.

Realtor Contact Information: Jasminka Chan, a preferred Edina Realty Realtor

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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6841 4th Street Place North, Oakdale, MN

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:42:04 -0600

MLS: 3635659 $229,900 6841 4th Street Place North, Oakdale, MN

Located in the city of Oakdale, this spacious multi-level home is full of interior character while boasting a wooded lot for great exterior appeal!

This home features:

Three bedrooms (two upper, one lower), two bathrooms
New flooring and light fixtures on main level
Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings
Gas fire place with marble surround

For more information on the listing, click here --> Oakdale Real Estate

Realtor Contact Information: Steve Mollner, your Keller Williams Realtor

This house was staged by KFM Staging & Design, a Minnesota home staging company that creates "First Impressions that Sell" in St. Paul, Minneapolis, and western Wisconsin. For home staging tips or to schedule your in-home or online consultation, visit our website at Minnesota Home Staging.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
Visit MyBlogLog and get a signature like this!

SOLD!!! Highland Park Home

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:35:19 -0600

2155 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul - SOLD IN ONE WEEK!

This beautifully updated 1940's home features original architectural character with modern-day amenities! The upper level has been converted into a large master bedroom with two walk-in closets. Natural light pours in the windows, creating a relaxing retreat for the new owners!

The spacious kitchen features new appliances, counter top seating, and an attached dining area. With views to the front porch, this space is perfect for holiday gatherings and summertime barbecues!

Adjacent to the kitchen, the warm colors of the living room invite guests to make themselves at home. With an open layout, this floor plan is sure to please!

Additional Features:

Three bedrooms, two bathrooms
Finished lower level which includes a family room
Storage room with built-in shelves
Large deck with privacy fence
Over-sized garage
Three season front porch with new flooring

MORE LISTING INFORMATION TO BE POSTED SOON!

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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Six Degrees of Home Staging - Wayne Newton

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:07:36 -0600

For die-hard home stagers and staging fanatics around the world, home staging is believed to be linked to any profession, celebrity, or life event with-in six degrees. For our first attempt, let's start with an easy one...

Wayne Newton and Home Staging

Wayne Newton is known as Mr. Vegas
Vegas's long-running top show was Siegfried and Roy
Siegfried and Roy are famous magicians
Magicians are known for their sleight-of-hand tricks
Sleight-of-hand uses misdirection to bring attention to a desired area
Attracting attention to desired areas is a key component in home staging

The master bedroom shown the photo below has several angles with low ceiling points. Having no other point-of-interest, the eye is immediately drawn to these low-set roof lines. Buyer's (especially those over 4'10") may view this master bedroom as a series of obstacles.

The staged photo below shows how staging redirects the eye from negative features by creating a visual display that captures buyers' attention. Instead of focusing on the negatives, staging allows buyers to see how to work around less desired areas of a home.

Some critics of home staging accuse stagers of "covering up" flaws in the house; however, that is a uneducated or misunderstood concept of the profession. Home staging shows us how to optimize the unique characteristics of each house.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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DYI Home Staging

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:48:05 -0600

At a recent staging consultation, I inquired about a "Stage your House For Sale" book (not actual title) on the client's table. Naturally, I inquired about what tips the homeowner learned from the literature. Her reply, "Nothing, I didn't read it. A friend gave it to me." My wheels started turning, and a blog was born...

What is the purpose of a professional staging consultation?

In today's "Do-it-Yourself" world, there are dozens - no, thousands of "how to" books on home staging. Online searches yield pages of websites, articles, and advertisements stating, "You don't need to hire a professional stager. Stage your own home today for only $19.95...."

Have professional home stagers overstayed their welcome in the Real Estate community? Are they like your slightly, off-balanced uncle who won't go home when the party is done? After all, why would people pay $200 for a staging consultation when they can check out a book at the public library for free? Our fathers generation's work ethic was, "If you want something done right, do it yourself," and it worked for them.

Take a look at the analogy below...

Let's say you were given several 2 x 4's and were told to build a house. Don't worry, you won't need to do the plumbing or electric, just the framing. Easy. No problem. After all, there are books on the topic. You can just Google, "How to Frame a House." I'm sure Wikipedia has something on that topic.

The truth is, unless we have been taught about house framing, most of us would end up with just a nice pile of lumber, not having a clue on where to start. Then there are those who would be determined to have a go at it despite their lack of knowledge; their intentions may be honorable, but the end results would be less than perfect.

To get the job done correctly and in a timely manner, common sense would tell us to hire a professional who has experience with framing houses - someone who understands the process, who can prioritize the tasks, and utilize the tools in the correct manner.

Back to home staging... Even when sellers are given all the correct supplies to stage their house, they may still lack the understanding on how to apply those tools to their home. Books, online sources, and t.v. shows (our home staging lumber yard) offer great resources for professionals and amateurs alike but will only take Do-it-Yourself home staging so far. Consultations by a trained stager will give sellers the "blue prints" for staging, specialized for their own home.

Unlike the oblivious party guests, professional home stagers are asset to the Real Estate community, because they understand the staging process from hands-on experience; they prioritize tasks so sellers are not overwhelmed, and they utilize staging tools in the correct manner for maximum effectiveness.

Today's work ethic: If you want something done right, hire a professional. In the process, you will save yourself time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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*Photos courtesy of fotosearch.com

204 Alberta Lane, Little Canada, MN

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 15:00:49 -0600

204 Alberta Lane, Little Canada, MN 55117

MLS: 3618377 $214,900

Located just north of the Twin Cities, this two-story home is situated in a quiet neighborhood that is close to all modern conveniences!

This house features:

Three bedrooms with main-floor master suite
Three bathrooms - two full, one half
Vaulted ceiling in main living area
Loft area perfect for an in-home office
Eat-in kitchen with wood flooring
Walk-out to patio with pond overlook

Full of stylish color choices and natural light, this home have an open layout with plenty of appeal!

This house was staged by KFM Staging & Design, a Minnesota home staging company that creates "First Impressions that Sell" in St. Paul, Minneapolis, and western Wisconsin. For home staging tipsor to schedule your in-home or online consultation, visit our website at Minneapolis Home Staging.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
Visit MyBlogLog and get a signature like this!

Advice for a New Home Stager

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 19:41:39 -0600

Dear Kristina,

I found your website and would love to talk with you about the opportunities of becoming a home-staging consultant. I am looking for any advice you can offer.

Paige, MN

Dear Prospective Stager,

You would be surprised at how many emails I receive regarding this topic. Home staging is definately an exciting business to pursue! You are able to use your creative juices to transform hopelessly, dull spaces into amazing rooms with volumes of style! However, I would do you a disservice if I did not provide a full description of this business.

The best advice that I can give you for entering this business is... be prepared for VERY hard work! Home staging as a business versus staging as a hobby requires more than just talent as you may be suspecting. The first thing to consider is education: who, when, where?

Then there are the questions of insurance, marketing, online development, inventory, storage facilities, pricing, etc. These items, however, pertain to any type of self-starting businesses. It does take a tremendous amount of passion to build a staging business, to handle success, and persist through the hard times.

If you are willing to sacrifice time, money, and a few broken finger nails... then welcome to the wonderful world of home staging! Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you all the best! Kristina

Visit "Ask a Home Stager... 'Dear Kristina'" for more excerpts on pressing staging questions.

KFM Staging & Design, a Minnesota home staging company, has been creating "First Impressions That Sell" in the Twin Cities for over a decade. Visit our website for more home staging tips. To submit your question, contact Kristina at kristina@kfmstaging.com.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
Visit MyBlogLog and get a signature like this!

Holiday Home Staging Tips

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 17:40:04 -0600

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Kwanzaa Tidings, and Festivus Greetings to all!

No matter what holiday you are celebrating, staging your home during the holidays can be hassle-free by following these simple guidelines:

DO NOT OVER-DECORATE: Too many decorations created unwanted effects on your home. 1) Buyers will not remember the house's features, 2) The house will appear small and cluttered, 3) Overwhelming religious holiday decor may be offensive to hardcore PC buyers.
DO, MINIMAL SEASONAL DECOR: Keep seasonal decor to localized areas such as the fireplace mantle, table center pieces, and vanities. Having just a few pieces will give the "flavor" of the season without "overwhelming the taste buds."
DO NOT SET UP A TREE IN SMALL SPACES: If you are selling a house under 2000 square feet, every inch of space needs to be seen. It is more important that buyers see all the corners in the living room instead of a 7-foot spruce.
DO USE OUTDOOR LIGHTING: Without going Clark Griswold on your roof, tastefully use exterior Christmas lights to stir up warm feelings in your buyers. Now that our days are shorter, it is important to use artificial lighting to set the mood.
DO NOT USE LARGE YARD DISPLAYS: The same theory for interior decorating applies to the exterior as well. Inflated snow globes may look neat, but buyers will have a hard time looking past it and may miss your landscaping and other exterior features.
DO KEEP DECOR TIMELY: Once your holiday is done, pack the decor ASAP. A house that retains holiday or seasonal decor past its due date has a neglected atmosphere.
DO NOT USE STRONG FRAGRANCES: Although tempting, using candles, potpourri, and room fresheners may irritate sensitive buyers. Instead, use natural fragrances such a baked cookies and simmering cider to boost the aromas in your home.
DO ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS: Reduce the stress by reducing the amount of commitments you make during this time of the year. This time of the year is about your faith, your family, and your friends. Keep it simple and remain positive towards the marketing of your home!

One final thought... when listing your home over the holidays, DO NOT decorate your home to suit the current season or holiday unless you are going to update the photos when the season/holiday is past. Photos on the MLS of Christmas stockings hanging on the mantle is not appealing when it is the middle of March.

Happy HanuRamaKwanzMas, Everyone!

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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3310 Commonwealth Court, Woodbury, MN

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:06:14 -0600

3310 Commonwealth Court, Woodbury, MN 55125

MLS #: 3620134 $319,900

Over looking a nature preserve, this two-story house has an open layout with scenic views!

The master suite offers plenty of space for oversized furniture, a walking closet, and a full bathroom with dual sinks.

With over 3000 square feet of living space, this house spaciousness is suited for entertaining!

Features:

Five bedrooms (four upper, one lower), four bathrooms
Open-style family room with gas fireplace and nature views
Eat-in kitchen with center island and walk-out to deck
Formal dining and living areas adjacent to kitchen
Entertainment room with home theater system and wet bar

For more information on this listing visit: Woodbury Real Estate, MLS #: 3620134

Realtor Information: This house is presented by Barker & Hedges, Re/Max Results.

This house was staged by KFM Staging & Design, a Minnesota home staging company that creates "First Impressions that Sell" in St. Paul, Minneapolis, and western Wisconsin. For home staging tips or to schedule your in-home or online consultation, visit our Minneapolis Home Staging website.

Home Staging: Living the Glamorous Life!

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 15:28:04 -0600

So many newly hatched stagers, fresh out of their shells, come into this industry wet with swollen eyes; their vision is blurred by marathons of "Sell This House," "Designed to Sell," and "The Stagers." The excitement on entering this new world pricks their senses as imaginations kick into overdrive.

They daydream of sweeping into a house, waving a magic, and (poof!) the house is spontaneously transformed into a glorious image sure to have buyers beating down the door! The phone rings non-stop while emails mount in their boxes. Newspaper articles, paparazzi flashes, and the coveted HGTV spot are within reach...

Fresh and shiny from their training course, they head out to their first Realtor's office with their ink-jet brochures and presentation binder in hand just knowing they will score big! --- They don't. (Insert your own tire screech here.) The glamorous lifestyle that seemed within reach is now miles away.

The truth is... starting a home staging business is a lot harder than most anticipate which explains why many drop the dream before it has a chance to mature. With wide eyes most jump on the Home Staging Tilt-a-Whirl and are thrown off before they get a chance to fasten their seatbelts. Blood, sweat, and tears combined with time, money, and effort will test the sanity of all staging entreprenuers.

What separates success stories from failures?

DESIRE. DRIVE. DETERMINATION.

Those who are steadfast in the home staging business are committed to succeed through the good times and the bad. (Trust me, there will be bad times.) Stagers who weather the storms come out ahead by learning from their mistakes. (Trust me, there will be mistakes.)

Home staging in the real world is NOT a glamorous life style! By the end of the day, real stagers are exhausted from driving across town to appointments; packing, unpacking, and repacking inventory; moving furniture, art work, and accessories up and down the stairs. Our feet hurt, our backs hurt, our necks hurt, and our hurts hurt.

This post is not a rant. It is not a complaint. It is not whining. It is an accurate description of an overly glamorized profession. Just as real doctors experiences are exaggerated by Grey's Anatomy, television has educated the public with a cloudy perception of the staging industry.

Those who dive into the staging pool do so because they like it. The ones who dare to swim into the deep end do so because they love it! Yes, we are tired. Yes, sometimes we're broke. Yes, we can get discouraged. But we love the job! It is demanding. It is consuming. It is unpredictable. But we love the job!

Being a stager is not just what we do... it is who we are!

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
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1531 Oak Ridge Lane, Houton, Wisconsin - Midwest Paradise!

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 22:09:56 -0600

1531 Oak Ridge Lane, Houlton, WI 54082 MLS Number: 3611388 $939,900

Located in the St. Croix river valley, this two-story home is nestled on a wooded, three-acre private lot. This house is full of custom craftsmanship, top quality features, and luxury amenities!

Features:

Five spacious bedrooms; master suite with dual walk-in closets, others with custom built-ins
Four bathrooms with upgraded fixtures and built-in storage areas
5,000 square feet with re-claimed pine and poured concrete floors
Two laundry areas (upper and main level)
Double oven with commercial range
Megonite counter tops in kitchen and all bathrooms
SO MUCH MORE!!!

For additional information on this listing or to view more photos, click here --> WISCONSIN REAL ESTATE

REALTOR CONTACT INFORMATION: Mike Vizenor, Re/Max Resources 651-206-8460

2008 Counselor Realty Winner!

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 17:00:38 -0600

The 2008 Counselor Realty Expo in Minneapolis, MN was a HUGE success!

Congratulations to Chris Lutter of the Maple Grove Counselor Realty Office, the winner of a 17-piece dining set courtesy of KFM Staging & Design!

Chris heads up The Lutter Group, which serves all real estate needs of the Twin Cities and surrounding counties. He and his wife, Nicole, are full time Realtors who are dedicated to helping homeowners find their dream home. Chris is known by his past clients for his honest, integrity, and hard work! Contact Chris Lutter for your real estate questions or a free home evaluation at clutter@counselor-realty.com.

KFM Staging & Design is a Minnesota home staging company that creates "First Impressions that Sell" in the Twin Cites and Western Wisconsin. KFM specializes in vacant staging and staging consultations. Visit our website for staging tips or to schedule your in-home or online consultation.

KFM Staging & Design
"Creating First Impressions That Sell!"
Visit MyBlogLog and get a signature like this!

SOLD!!! 4906 Xerxes Avenue North, Minneapolis Real Estate

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:07:39 -0500

4906 Xerxes Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55430

**UPDATE** SOLD IN ONE WEEK!!!

This completely updated single family home is located just minutes away from the Twin Cities! Built in the 1950's, this house features charming characteristics of the past with modern conveniences and upgrades!

Features:

Three bedrooms, including oversized master suite
Two bathrooms, full on main level, half on upper level
Large, eat-in kitchen with new SS appliances, maple cabinetry, and new countertops
Hardwood floor throughout main level
Completely remodeled bathrooms with new tile and fixtures
Finished basement and lots of storage space
Detached 3-car garage

For more information on this listing, click here --> Successful Home Sales

REALTOR CONTACT INFORMATION: Pam Kowalski, Counselor Realty - pam@pamkhomes.com

"Your kids aren't THAT cute..." and Other Things Realtors Won't Tell You

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 18:11:59 -0500

In the real estate world, a seller has control over two things: the price of their property and condition of their home. While Realtors help sellers determine a price, many agents count on home stagers to deliver the "bad news" to their clients about the appearance of their house.

TOP TEN THINGS (some) REALTORS WON'T TELL YOU

"Your kids aren't that cute... pack the photos."
"Multi-colored carpet does not include stains."
"Hummel collections are not considered focal points."
"Toilet seat covers do not qualify as 'spa-like' accessories."
"Mint green is not a neutral color."
"Your dining table should never be used as long-term storage space."
"Most buyers are not looking for Jeff Gordon themed houses."
"No amount of scented candles are going to remove that odor."
"Lack of lighting does not 'set the mood.'"
"Crotch-sniffing dogs rarely make good hosts."

There is a lot of work that goes into properly preparing a house for the real estate market. This task is made easier by getting a professional evaluation from a trained home stager. Stagers will identify the "red flags" that could hinder a sale as well as develop a plan that will make your listing stand out from the competition.

The photos below show a "before and after" example of a KFM Staging consultation.

Home staging has been a secret weapon in the real estate wars, and it continues to win victories in the current makret. Even though some Realtors may not want to deliver the bad news to their clients; they can rely on professional stagers who will respectfully help sellers through the staging process.

655 Landau Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:58:20 -0500

655 Landau Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125 MSL# 3607592

This spacious two-story home has a beautiful layout with a pond view!

This amazing two-story features:

Four bedrooms - three upper, one lower
Spacious master suit with jet tub and separate water closet
Loft that looks over living room
Open floor plan with two-story entry
Hardwood floors on main level
Large eat-in kitchen with countertop seating and walk-out to deck
Finished lower level with patio walk-out and view to pond

For more information on this listing or to view additonal photos, click here --> Woodbury Real Estate

REALTOR CONTACT INFO: Barker & Hedges, Re/Max Results

This house was staged by KFM Staging & Design, a Minnesota home staging company that created "First Impressions that Sell" in St. Paul, Minneapolis, and western Wisconsin. For home staging tips or to schedule your in-home or online consultation, visit our website at Minneapolis Home Staging.

SOLD!!! 4565 Victor Path, Hugo, MN 55038

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 15:59:02 -0500

4565 Victor Path, Hugo, MN 55038 MLS# 3608919

This beautiful two-story townhouse is located in the fast growing suburb of Hugo. As an end-unit, this home has an open floor plan and stunning appeal!

This home features:

Two spacious bedrooms, three bathrooms
Two-story ceilings in living room with gas fireplace
Maple cabinetry in kitchen with eat-in island
Large master suite with plenty of closet space
Stylish color palette compatible with variety of decor
and MORE!!!

For more information on this listing or to view additional photos, click here --> Hugo Real Estate

Realtor Contact Information: Barker & Hedges, Re/Max Results.

8095 59th Street North, Lake Elmo, Minnesota

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:34:05 -0500

8095 50th Street North, Lake Elmo, MN 55042 MLS: 3601376 $299,900

This house represents everything Minnesota: The beauty of nature and the comforts of home!

This home features:

Two upper level bedrooms; private deck attached to master bedroom
Two full bathrooms with tile and upgraded light fixtures
Main-level family room with vaulted ceilings and double-sided fireplace
large kitchen with SS appliances, beautiful cabinetry and attached dining room
Finished lower level with walk-out to garage
Large deck surrounded by mature trees

For more information on this listing, click here --> Private Acreage in Lake Elmo

Realtor Contact Information: Steve Mollner, Keller Williams Premier Realty

This house has been staged by KFM Staging & Design, a Minnesota home staging company that has been creating "First Impressions That Sell" for homeowners and Realtors across the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin. Visit our website for more information on home staging or free home staging tips!

2320 Golf Drive, Woodbury, MN

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 19:19:24 -0500

2320 Golf Drive, Woodbury, MN 55129 MLS: 3601393 $415,900

In like-new condition, this stunning two-story's spacious layout boasts plenty of room for a growing family!

This lovely home features:

Three bathrooms, three bedrooms, and main-level office
Formal living room, sunroom, and family room
Open kitchen with center island
Vaulted ceilings and hardwood floors
Much, much more!

For more information and photos on this listing, click here --> Woodbury Real Estate

Realtor Contact Info: Barker & Hedges Re/Max Results --> St. Paul Realtors

Home Staging Tips for Autumn

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:13:28 -0500

As summer fades into fall, sellers should re-evaluate the showing condition of their home. To retain maximum interest, listed properties should keep up with the seasonal changes and make the transition as well.

Home Staging Tips for Autumn:

Curb Appeal (lawn): Don't let the cooling weather deter you from maintaining your yard. Keep the grass trimmed and well watered into late fall to retain a healthy-looking lawn. Remember to gather fallen leaves and move them to a compositing center.
Curb Appeal (garden): After your flowers and vegetable gardens have been spent, trim the plants down to minimize the withered appearance. If there are voids in your once-thriving landscaped areas, try adding fall perenials such as mums. These additions will bring a touch of color while ushering buyers into your home.
Holiday Decor: Keep your Halloween and Thanksgiving decor to a tasteful minimum. Neutral decorations such as pumpkins gourds, indian corn, and wicker baskets will allow you to add a festive atmosphere to your home without distracting buyers.
Seasonal Scents: Do not use overpowering sprays or room fragrances when selling your home; these types of artificial odors can be irritating to buyers. However, natural scents such as freshly baked spice cookies and simmering apple cider are very pleasing and can conjure up fond memories of family and home.
Exterior Photos: After the fall flowers have been planted and your trees have turned a crimson red, be sure to update the exterior photo for your home. Contact your listing agent or send an email to keep your online listing looking fresh.

While selling your home, it is important to remain proactive and keep your home in top showing condition. Although relatively minor, these changes can make a big impact on how your house appears to buyers!

KFM Staging & Design is a Minnesota home staging company that has been creating "First Impressions That Sell" for homeowners and Realtors across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and western Wisconsin. KFM Specializes in staging consultations and vacant stagings. For more home staging tips or to schedule a personalized consultation for your home, visit our website: www.kfmstaging.com

10541 Jay Street NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 21:46:09 -0500

MLS #: 3592137 Price: $162,900 10541 Jay Street NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55443

This 1990's twin home is nestled on a cozy lot with mature trees and ample space for children and pets! Close to Minneapolis and St. Paul, this home has the friendly neighborhood of suburb living with all the conveniences of city life!

This home features:

Three bedrooms / two bathrooms
Newly finished lower level with wood flooring
Bright kitchen with generous dining area
Fenced-in yard with mature trees

To view the MLS listing click here --> ANOKA COUNTY LISTING

REALTOR CONTACT INFORMATION: Jessica Saba-Johnson, Re/Max Real Estate Properties 651-248-6168

This house has been staged by KFM Staging & Design, a Minnesota home staging company that has been creating "First Impressions That Sell" for homeowners and Realtors across the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin. KFM Specializes in staging consultations and vacant stagings. For more information on home staging, visit our website: www.kfmstaging.com

SOLD!!! 8194 Custers Trail, Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 21:09:22 -0500

MLS #: 3585507 Price: $219,900 Street

8194 Custers Trl City Inver Grove Heights Zip 55076

This tri-level home is has a spacious atmosphere with an open floor plan that looks over the dining room and kitchen.

This home features:

Three bedrooms / two bathrooms
Vaulted ceilings
Wood floor
Finished lower level with walk-out
Large deck with private, fenced-in yard
Beautiful gas fireplace

For more information on this listing, click here --> Inver Grove Real Estate

REALTOR CONTACT INFORMATION: Barker & Hedges ReMax Results, (651) 256-7380

This house has been staged by KFM Staging & Design, a Minnesota home staging company that has been creating "First Impressions That Sell" for homeowners and Realtors across the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin. KFM Specializes in staging consultations and vacant stagings. For more information on home staging, visit our website: www.kfmstaging.com