Terrylynn - Realtor who believes in Staging

It's True! All Stagers & Designers Welcome! $1,000 in Raffle Prizes!

2008-09-05T16:18:34Z

$1000 in raffle prizes, a ticket for your registration and one for each person you recommend to sign up!!!
Newtork with people who share your challenges and get to know in person your AR friends. See testimonials below. AND Mastercraft is giving tours of their furniture manufacturing plant! Meet Shell in person at the RESA booth, too.

Presented by:

StagersLIST.com and MasterCraft Furniture PRESENT the
First Annual Northwest Home Staging Expo
September 13, 2008

Who is invited? EVERY stager, redesigner, decorator, regardless of training or designation.

Join other industry professionals for the opportunity to hear Christine Rae, Staging Expert/Trainer and Author of Home Staging For Dummies present
Trends in Your Marketplace

In addition, Kym Hough, Experienced Staging Professional, will present
Marketing Your Business Daily

Terrylynn Fisher, 31 Year Realtor Professional will present
How to Become a Collaborator With Your Realtor

Mary DeBella, Home Staging Professional, will present
Inventory and Warehouse Management

Furniture Factory Tour

AND MUCH MORE!

WHERE: MasterCraft Furniture
10075 SW Commerce Circle, Wilsonville, OR 97070
(10 minutes south of Portland)
1-800-677-SOFA

WHEN: Saturday, September 13, 2008 from 2pm-6pm
Industry Suppliers will have booths available for great Resourcing of product

Once you register you will be entered into the Expo Raffle, a $1,000 Value!
For more information, call Local Event Coordinator Mary DeBella of
Northwest Staging & ReDesign at (503) 657-3295
or email Events@StagersLIST.com

Some reviews of our presentation:

The "trends" of the business... Love hearing about what a difference staging makes in "all " markets, (good economy or bad). The topics you spoke to were great. Keep the same format. Great door prizes (even if I didn't win one)!!! - Cynthia

Thank you so much for inviting me. The Expo was a success. You should be proud. As a former Fashion Merchandise Director for several renowned Retail Department Stores, and now launching a new Staging business, I was especially impressed by the Trend Reports as this was an important part of my job as Fashion Director. Most business owners do not understand that in order to be successful, and remain on top of the food chain, keeping abreast of current trends is a must and in all areas, not just Home. Trends crossover from many different areas: Lifestyle, Fashion, Politics, Auto Industry, Colors, Fabrics etc. We must keep in mind that our clients, (Homeowners, Realtors, Developers, Vendors as well as Buyers), are all influenced by what's going on the the world. Stay Tuned In People... It was a great event, can't wait until the next one!!! - Felicia

Sponsors Include:
RESA
True Decor
Staged By Design
People's Furniture Rental
Mead Smith Attorneys at Law
Devine Paint
Next Stage Furniture
Blessima Decor
Real Deals AND WE ARE STILL ADDING THEM DAILY!!!

Fun Events this weekened, Posted 9/4/08

2008-09-04T16:04:00Z

I have 4 of my 5 grandkids overnight on Friday night this weekend and have to find a way to entertain them. My daughter, Chris, reminded me about Movie Under The Stars in Walnut Creek. This is at Ballfield #1, Heather Farms, and begins at dusk. This week's movie is Ferris Bueller's Day Off, the 80's classic. I'm sure the kids will love it, think I'll pack a picnic and check it out! I know my grandsons will at the very least enjoy watching Jennifer Grey kick the principal in the face when he invades the Bueller home.

Also this weekend is the 24th Annual Pittsburg Seafood Festival. Chris was laughing about this one, but people come from all over the county to attend this festival. We have a property that we manage in the area, and each year the residents of the complex are given parking passes to park in their own neighborhood. All cars w/o a padd get towed (so be careful where you park if you go to the festival).

The festival is at the end of Railroad, New Mecca Cafe area and features an Air Show, Boat Races, Art Shows, Arts & Crafts, WIne Pavilion, food from over 40 restaurants, a kid zone, petting zoo, and lots more. The price is $7, kids under 6 are free with a paying adult.

Hours:
Saturday, September 6, 2008 from 10am-7pm
Sunday, September 7, 2008 from 10am-6pm

I don't think I'll be braving the crowds to attend this one, but have been in the past. It is a fun event.

Happy Client!

2008-08-29T13:15:06Z

Connie is a young single woman in our area who went to high school with one of my daughters. She graduated from college and has been working and saving money for 15 years toward buying her first home.

This is Connie’s testimonial and I show it because it makes me feel good that I was able to assist her in realizing her dream but also to illustrate that whether you think you can or not, you are right.

“Thank you TERRYLYNN! Because of you I am getting the nice, fixed up duet home with garage rather than the fixer or a condo!!! You encouraged me to go for what I wanted, your negotiation skills, hard work and patience were invaluable during this process. And my Welcome Home website was just wonderful for all my friends and family to see my new home.”

Buyers - the message is that it has not been easier in years, yes many years, to buy a home. The interest rates and prices here in Contra Costa County, California are at 1970’s prices~!!! This means with 2008 income you can buy 1970 prices and the interest rates are better than they were then as well. Your payments are lower because the prices are lower and the interest rates are lower which gives you another reduction in payment.

Every $100,000 in mortgage is $649 at a 6 ¾ interest rate before taxes and insurance.

Recently a buyer wanted to buy a home $250,000 or less. That was a condo only two years ago. Today there are 53 properties to choose from!!! At the risk of sounding cliché’ These prices will not last, this combination of circumstances will not last, if you can buy for about what you pay in rent, why wouldn’t you? Real estate continues to be a great investment for your retirement hedge, and wealth building.

To find out more about our market here in contra Costa County, California, give me a call. Terrylynn-n-Team, 31 years experience in local real estate. Enough experience to serve you well, anticipate the pitfalls, and years of negotiation experience to get you the best “deal” possible.

Faux Food Fanciers Find Finer Faux OR Contest Winner Announcement

2008-08-25T17:36:43Z

Say that 10 times real fast!!!

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

GOOGLE ALERT! Have you put yourself on Alert?

2008-08-23T01:25:50Z

GUESS WHO? Terrylynn Fisher and Fernando Rosado, AR's very own. We want to thank Google for the mention...seriously folks, have you checked in with Google lately, never know what brilliant thing you wrote that has been noticed and mentioned. Of course our articles are brilliant, right Fernando? But it IS worth putting yourself on and checking now and then to see what pops up. You never know where and when you might be mentioned.

So friends, just read these blog posts and then go to http://www.google.com/alerts and sign up. Google sends you regular updates on things written with your search words. It's that easy. Here is what popped up on us today, two posts we had written this week of connection to real estate staging association. SO, there you go.

Google Blogs Alert for: real estate staging association,

The Times They Are A Changin'
By Terrylynn Fisher StagersLIST.com Buy Stage...(Terrylynn Fisher StagersLIST.com Buy Stage...)
Another step forward for the home staging industry has been the creation of a member run trade association RESA (Real Estate Staging Association), which is non-denominational and addresses industry issues and challenges. ...
Terrylynn - Realtor who believes... - http://activerain.com/blogs/terrylynn

Home Stager in West Palm Beach Fernando from Eclectic Home Staging ...
By Fernando Rosado ASP, president IAHSP PBC...(Fernando Rosado ASP, president IAHSP PBC...)
HOME STAGING IN PALM BEACH COUNTY. Fernando Rosado,Accredited Staging Professional. President International Association of Home Staging Professionals, Palm Beach County Chapter. CEO & Founder of ECLECTIC HOME STAGING OF THE PALM BEACHES ...
- http://activerain.com/blogs/fernandor561

TERRYLYNN FISHER, DIABLO REALTY, WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA - REAL ESTATE BROKER AND STAGING CONSULTANT, REALTOR WHO BELIEVES IN STAGING ALL HER LISTINGS WITH PROFESSIONAL HOME STAGERS. 925 876-0966 AND Terrylynn@StagersLIST.com

The Times They Are A Changin'

2008-08-19T19:07:56Z

What has caused the change, well really more of a healthy evolution, of the staging industry? Eight years ago there were two main training offerings giving staging training and redesign, today there are about 25. They are springing up all over North America with many trainers stagers/redesigners we all know and respect. The training companies each offer a different take on the industry and fill in gaps in training. It is a given that you must be creative. Many people attracted to staging are creative and have not fully developed their business training. There are those that got their training through their business backgrounds, have creative talent and just jumped right in.

In reality, many stagers take more than one training program in order to fill in the gaps in training or take advanced training and propel their business to another level of success. Some of them keep that a secret, others embrace it as Realtors do. Realtors have known for years that they must continue to get education to fill in their gaps and advance themselves in training and expertise in order to keep up with changes in their marketplace and maintain a cutting edge real estate practice. It is a good thing that the staging industry is realizing that they are not hobbyists, but need to have a high level of business proficiency to have a viable and profitable business. Along with that realization that you must become a business owner is the realization that education, specialties and the support of trade organizations and affiliations in industry related groups makes sense.

Another step forward for the home staging industry has been the creation of a member run trade association RESA (Real Estate Staging Association), which is non-denominational and addresses industry issues and challenges. RESA is designed to be a self-governing body that sets industry standards and subscribes to a code of ethics, much like the real estate model. The stagers/redesigners themselves determine their direction and values of the association and how that will be put out to the public for their judgment of the industry. The issues of the future are being discussed now and will be developed into the long term planning for issues that impact the industry as well as products and services. The grassroots efforts of the staging professionals of today are setting those new standards.

And don't forget those Staging Expos coming soon to a City near you. http://activerain.com/blogsview/649490/EXPO-First-Annual-NorthWest

Congratulations to RESA for being chosen to spearhead the upcoming Stage it Forward Round Table discussions. Last year was a success, and this year should be even better!

What an exciting time to be in this industry. I am proud to be among you. A raving fan and SOLD on Staging Realtor.

EXPO - First Annual NorthWest Expo 9-13-08 Your friends in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Alaska want to network with YOU

2008-08-19T16:31:01Z

Don't miss it!!! It's True - All Stagers Welcome!! Annual Pacific Northwest Staging Expo!

Presented by:

StagersLIST.com and MasterCraft Furniture PRESENT the
First Annual Northwest Home Staging Expo
September 13, 2008

Who is invited? EVERY stager, redesigner, decorator, regardless of training or designation.

Join other industry professionals for the opportunity to hear Christine Rae, Staging Expert/Trainer and Author of Home Staging For Dummies present
Trends in Your Marketplace

In addition, Kym Hough, Experienced Staging Professional, will present
Marketing Your Business Daily

Terrylynn Fisher, 31 Year Realtor Professional will present
How to Become a Collaborator With Your Realtor

Mary DeBella, Home Staging Professional, will present
Inventory and Warehouse Management

Furniture Factory Tour

AND MUCH MORE!

WHERE: MasterCraft Furniture
10075 SW Commerce Circle, Wilsonville, OR 97070
(10 minutes south of Portland)
1-800-677-SOFA

WHEN: Saturday, September 13, 2008 from 2pm-6pm
Industry Suppliers will have booths available for great Resourcing of product

Once you register you will be entered into the Expo Raffle, a $1,000 Value!
For more information, call Local Event Coordinator Mary DeBella of
Northwest Staging & ReDesign at (503) 657-3295
or email Events@StagersLIST.com

Some reviews of our presentation:

Stick with the "trends" of the business. Love hearing about what a difference staging makes in "all " markets, (good economy or bad). The topics you spoke to were great. Keep the same format. Great door prizes (even if I didn't win one)!!! - Cynthia

Sponsors Include:
RESA
True Decor
Staged By Design
People's Furniture Rental
Mead Smith Attorneys at Law
Devine Paint
Next Stage Furniture
Blessima Decor
Real Deals

Staging is like a dance in many ways. Just don’t step on anyone’s toes.

2008-08-16T13:32:48Z

Cha Cha - the rhythm is just right and you glide back and forth with your recommendations, they "get it" and you move right into the turn together. AHHH success.

Hip Hop - they are all over the place but they get it and want to HELP you make it happen... as long as they focus and listen to your recommendations you've got it made as they'll be helpful and quick.

Waltz - Slow to understand and slow to react, but when they get it, they'll glide through the process with you and appreciate the work you did with them to get them there. You may need to keep reminding them why they are doing this again. In the end, they'll be elated that you got them half packed up and ready to go.

Polka - OK a lot of hip hop qualities and a bit of the Waltz too... so once you convince them to come along, they'll jump right in and get to work.

Credit to Maureen Bray for these two - "Terrylynn ~ Cute post. As long as we don't include the Hustle (undercutting pricing) or the Limbo (how LOW can you go?) we'll be happy. "

Credit to Ronelle Schroeder Hill for the do-si-do when the Realtor and partner with the client. GOOD one.

A mismatch or misstep on any of these and you'll be moving on to the next client. Just like in life, we hit it off right away or we don't. Sometimes I think we try to Waltz with a Hip Hop and Cha Cha with a Polka. No wonder it doesn't work. The thing is you just need to know the dance the clients are doing and dance with them, it makes the work so much easier.

Listed, Staged, Sold in 2 Days!

2008-07-14T18:17:09Z

Staging works again!

Teamed up with Kym Hough of Staged to Sell on this listing. Had a fun Thursday staging, transforming grandma's house. (We had already upgraded the countertops, new paint, appliances). Added to the local MLS on Saturday, received an offer by Monday. Two days on the market! Priced right, staged, you can sell your home in this market.

This is a beautiful home on a large lot, quiet location. It's so productive, and fun, to work as a team with a professional home stager. The results are always worth it.

As you can see, plenty of gorgeous outdoor spaces as well. Thanks Kym for a great time and helping prepare for a quick sale!

Terrylynn Fisher, CSP Realtor
StagersLIST.com Buy Stage Sell

Why trade my dirty carpet for your dirty carpet? A little bit of history.

2008-07-12T21:15:29Z

It started with the Realtors. Years ago it was unheard of to speak to a seller about the "odor" in their home or their favorite wallpaper, the stains on the carpet and other "challenges" within their home. The Realtor just took the listing and hoped for the best.

What was the best? Was the he hope that the Realtor would find a buyer with a small dog who also peed on the carpet and therefore they were used to the odor? Was the hope that the Realtor would find someone who liked the smell of dirty socks or had the same cooking preferences as the current owner? Did the seller hope to engage the buyer in a refrigerator magnet contest to see who had the most diverse collection? What was that hope? What shifted for Realtors was the realization that selling a house was merchandizing rather than just putting a home on the market "as is".

(NOTE-this is Chris' dog Sugar, put the curser over the photo...that's Sugar. Always sorry to get caught.)

Most change happens when the public reacts to something and forces that company or industry to change to meet their needs. The public spoke and stopped buying the dumpy, or perceived less than perfect homes. The public said, in effect "Why trade my dirty carpet for their dirty carpet." There had to be more reason to move than to just trade challenges, right? We became a society of buyers that didn't have time for "fixing"; perhaps too tired to muster up the energy for the daunting task that awaited them in their "dream home".

Real Estate marketing became an even more important part of how property sold in the 1980's. Realtors came to the realization they couldn't just stick the sign in the yard and put an ad in the paper anymore and have the property sell. In November of 1978 interest rates went from single to double digit interest rates and it just kept going up until October of 1981 when rates reached 18.45%. If a Realtor had a client who could qualify and buy a home then, the clients did a refinance within 2 years when rates went under 14%!!! That was considered a great interest rate in 1983.

The times created a need for more merchandizing of listed homes to get them noticed by the buyers. Realtors began to realize they had to spend some marketing $$$ on their listings to get them noticed because buyers were not too interested at that point. Most buyers couldn't afford the payments at the high interest rates of that day, and those that could were not so inclined to rush out and buy if what they saw was cluttered, dirty or needed work. They had to be tempted. Home staging was created out of a need.

Realtors have always been smart enough to adapt to changing times. If the Realtor was going to spend money to get their listed properties noticed then they didn't want to lose the buyer when they finally got a prospect to come to the property and go inside. The real estate industry evolved from "selling homes" to "marketing and selling homes". Marketing techniques were created to fill a need and make the properties more competitive and marketable.

Fast forward to 2008 - Staging is now an accepted, no longer optional, marketing tool in the savvy Realtor's marketing plan. Realtors must be marketing experts along with all of the other skills needed to be a successful practitioner. So how does home staging fit into a Realtor's marketing plan? Very well thank you. It's the perfect compliment. It is completely client focused and one investment that has a high return for the client and the Realtor. Think about your local newspaper ads, can they do as much dollar for dollar?

AR has a huge group of home staging professionals online. The beauty of this forum is that you can read their published work and see their photos and determine the most professional "staged" stager for your client demographic. It's like having online shopping for resumes. I encourage you to take advantage of these professionals in your marketplace. You already know they are on trend as they are here. Any serious business owner will make time for a company internet presence. Isn't that who you want on your team, someone who supports your professional image?

Terrylynn Fisher, Realtor for decades in Walnut Creek, California, co-owner of StagersLIST.com and serious believer in Home Staging for REAL ESTATE.

First annual Bay Area Stagers Expo!

2008-07-11T00:30:04Z

You are invited to attend the

StagersLIST.com and Welcome Home Furniture PRESENT the
First Annual Bay Area Home Staging Expo
July 17, 2008

Join other industry professionals for the opportunity to hear Christine Rae, Staging Expert/Trainer and Auther of Home Staging For Dummies present
Trends in Your Marketplace

In addition, Kym Hough, Experienced Staging Professional, will present
Marketing Your Business Daily

Terrylynn Fisher, 31 Year Realtor Professional will present
What YOU Need to Know about Real Estate Today!

AND MUCH MORE!

WHERE: Welcome Home Furniture Rental Warehouse
6838 Sierra Court in Dublin, California, 94568

WHEN: Thursday, July 17, 2008 from 2pm-6pm
Industry Suppliers will have booths available for great Resourcing of product

Once you register you will be entered into the Expo Raffle, a $1,000 Value!
For more information, call 925.828.3463 or email Events@StagersLIST.com

Not a two-faced Realtor, here's why...

2008-07-06T00:39:04Z

So here goes. I just read a post on the Realtor Blog about being two faced if you tell your buyers and sellers that "its a great time to buy or a great time to sell" in this market. Both buyer and seller in the same market and their reasons for buying or selling could make a difference in how you answer. Does that make you two faced? Don't we all analyze our client's needs based on their circumstances and answer them accordingly? I would say most Realtors do.

And, I am thinking that the public, stagers and others need to understand some of these concepts before accepting such a statement as black and white, without knowing the circumstances and details of the conversation. There are always two ways to look at things, including a down market. The old saying when life sends you lemons make lemonade.

For some these are the opportunities for lemonade.

It IS a great time to buy because interest rates and prices being low at the same time gives them a lower payment and just like the stock market ... when stocks are down is when you should buy. It is also true that people tolerate ups and downs in their stock portfolios and just ride them out or sell, depending on when that is the right decision for them based on their circumstances.

Correct me if I'm wrong, for the same reasons the below is true for a move up seller, and it is true for a buyer. However, there are circumstances that could change your answer to either or both if you look further. Simplistically, I have no problem saying the same thing to sellers or buyers in this scenario. What about you?

If a seller wants to know if it's a good time to sell, depending on what they are doing, the answer would be something like this. If your home was worth $300,000 3 years ago and you buy up to $500,000 that's a $200,000 difference. The down payment at 20% of the $500,000 purchase price is $100,000 and your payments are based on $400,000 loan amount.

If your property has dropped 20%, then your home now is worth $240,000 and you sell and the property you are buying is $400,000 because it dropped 20% too, then the difference is $160,000 and the 20% down payment on $400,000 is $80,000 and the payments are based on a $320,000 loan. Isn't that a good time to sell for the move up seller? You bet it is, YES they take less but buy for less and their property taxes are less, payments are less for 30 years, etc.

I don't see a conflict and NO I am not a two faced agent. I am helping them analyze the market to assist them in THEIR decision making in terms of what they can do with their investment and their purchase or sale. That's my job, the decision is up to them.

Terrylynn Fisher, Expert Negotiator, Realtor, CRS, SRES, GRI, CSP Staging Consultant, Diablo Realty, Walnut Creek, California loving selling real estate since 1977 in Contra Costa County, California... Also Co-Owner of StagersLIST.com THE Resource for Stagers, Realtors and Homeowners in North America, CSP Realtor Elite and the first CP designee and LGLS Realtor Trainer for Live Green, Live Smart, realtor designation green build science training, with programs for corporations, non-profits and everyone.

www.StagersLIST.com Terrylynn@StagersLIST.com

www.Terrylynn-n-Team.com homes4u@e-realestate4u.com

3769 Northridge Drive in Concord, CA

2008-06-30T18:16:29Z



www.NorthridgeDrive.com Welcome home to this wonderful 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home on .3 acre wooded lot in St. Francis Park. Frustrated by homes that are too close to the neighbors? No room to garden or play volleyball? This home has extra wide lot with RV Parking.


Formal dining room with room for hutch and buffet Spacious living room with cathedral ceilings Family room with brick hearth and built-ins, lots of windows and access to large yard New carpet Spacious kitchen with two breakfast bars, granite counters and more Inside laundry room with storage Newer dual pane windows Master bedroom with private bath and two closets with slider to outdoor patio Double attached garage


.3 acre wooded lot. Redwoods, dry creek bed with bridge, benches, fruit trees, established plants and several separate sitting areas. Schools: El Monte Elementary, El Dorado Middle and Concord High.

Dark Brown Leather Tufted Bench - almost $300 dollars off regular price!

2008-06-23T14:53:41Z

This is normally priced at $467.50 and for a limited time is on sale for $174.95! I think that's a good enough deal to share. Click the photo above if you want to take a closer look.

Here's the Overstock.com description:

Create a sophisticated atmosphere in your living room, den, or office with this ideal update for your home decor
Constructed of a sturdy hardwood frame
Highlighted by high quality leather upholstery in dark brown
Stylish piped edging
Tufted and panel stitched for added durability
Four dark brown wooden feet
Measures 18 inches high x 48 inches wide x 22 inches deep

I have a similar bench that I use when staging my listings.

We are constantly looking for great bargains for StagersLIST.com and are happy to share when we find things of value that stagers use. At StagersLIST.com we are adding product to our StagersLIST Shopping Mall that is priced lower than our suppliers' normal prices. We only add it if it's high quality and a good bargain! When we run across deals we think are worth sharing, but that don't fit in with our shopping mall, we'll share them here! Happy Staging!

Find your target market!

2008-06-13T14:41:27Z

This may be too basic and maybe not. Some things bear repeating. I have a question for you.

Do you wait for people to come to you or do you go after people who would be a good fit for your business? Say you are selling cars, you try to find people who want to buy cars. Well, yes, but if you are selling luxury cars, then don’t you want to take it a step further and find those people who might buy luxury cars? What are their characteristics?

Income level to be able to afford the luxury cars
Already own a luxury car
Live in areas where people own luxury cars
Have a car that is older than a few years and may need a new car

How many ways can you dig deeper into the “target” market that might want a luxury car? The further you go, the more focused your audience and more likely they would be to purchase a luxury car. Do you see how this is different than just sending out a big marketing piece to everyone?

Target marketing in real estate and staging is much the same thing. Realtors don’t just look for someone who just wants to buy a home. If they have a $1,000,000 home, they try to find the people who can afford the $1,000,000 home and if it’s a condo they try to find people who are looking for a condo. The places they want to “target” to advertise or focus their marketing efforts will be much different. The deeper they dig, the more focused the audience, the more likely they are to find someone who might want to buy what they have listed.

How does that relate to staging? If your target market is Realtors, then how can you target the right realtors for your business? Remember the deeper you dig, the more focused the audience, the more likely you'll find a “good fit”. You can use ANY criteria…

Realtors in your board of Realtors area
Realtors in your city or cities you want to work in
Realtors in neighborhoods where you feel comfortable
Realtors with a certain price point of business
Realtors whose listings fit the style and architecture of the furniture and accessories you are most confident with (Does this mean you don’t go out of your comfort zone? No, but it means you have a segment of business that is easy and comfortable for you to master.)
Realtors not currently with a staging partner
Realtors who are not the TOP, TOP producers (Top producers can be more demanding and want you to be available for them and not others, sometimes that can be a conflict unless you are looking to work mainly for one Realtor. Putting your eggs all in one basket can be risky if something happens, all your business is gone.)
Realtors with whom you share similar interests and work habits
Realtors that belong to the same groups and/or clubs as you

Does that mean you shouldn’t work with other Realtors or homeowners? NO… It means that a few target marketed Realtors who feel you are invaluable, who truly fit your business and you fit theirs, will be the foundation of your income and business when times are tough and when times are good. Stagers who are making it through the tough times have worked on their business in this fashion. Their business has been deliberate and they have utilized target marketing to their advantage. The foundation of their business is a core group of people that they have sought out and connected with. Then you have time and ability to stretch and grow, you deliberately find another “target” market or it finds you, and you continue to build on your business with the various “target” markets until you have all the business you can handle.

Contra Costa County Certified Farmer's Markets

2008-06-13T13:48:01Z

Saturday

Market	Location	Times	Months Open
Danville	Railroad and Prospect	9am-1pm	Year Round
El Cerrito	El Cerrito Plaza	9am-1pm	Year Round
Orinda	Avenida de Orinda and Orinda Way	9am-1pm	May-November
Pinole	Civic Center Parking Lot/Plum and Prune	9am-1pm	Year Round
Pittsburg	Railroad and 6th	9am-1pm	Year Round
Pleasant Hill	100 Gregory Lane	10am-2pm	May-November
Brentwood	2nd and Maple	8am-12pm	May-October
Clayton	Diablo between Main and Center	9am-1pm	May-October
San Ramon	19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd.	9am-1pm	May-November
Sunday
Kensington	Arlington and Amherst	10am-2pm	Year Round
Martinez	600 Block Main St.	10am-2pm	May-October
Moraga	Moraga Road and Moraga Way	9am-1pm	Year Round
Walnut Creek	Broadway and Lincoln	8am-1pm	Year Round

Frank Lloyd Wright, Ann Baxter's daughter's FREE book, Habitat, Edith Head and Atlanta!

2008-06-07T02:11:35Z

Melissa Galt

Sale of designer décor through StagersLIST.com to benefit Habitat for HumanityInterior Designer Melissa Galt offers beautiful items and opportunity to support Habitat for Humanity

Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Interior Designer Melissa Galt, great-granddaughter of architect and icon Frank Lloyd Wright, is offering many of her treasured home furnishings for sale on StagersLIST.com -- and donating 10 percent of the proceeds on items purchased by June 16 to Habitat for Humanity. Melissa's family history is connected to beauty in the home environment, and beauty of spirit.

"I chose www.StagersLIST.com because they too are in the home beautification business and wanted to join me in giving back. And Habitat for Humanity makes lives beautiful by building homes for families who otherwise could not afford them. I want my good fortune to support the good fortune of others," Galt says.

Items for sale (some never used) include top-quality furnishings, original art pieces from $100 to $500, hand-crafted rugs, designer upholstery, case goods and much more at incredible prices of less than half their original value. Ten percent of every Melissa Galt item sold on www.StagersLIST.com by June 16 goes to Habitat for Humanity to help build a home for a worthy family.. Shipping is available on most purchases, so take a look at the treasures at bargain pricing.

Galt is the daughter of Academy award-winning actress Anne Baxter and god-daughter of famed Hollywood costume designer Edith Head. Inspired by her illustrious heritage and desire to encourage everyone to live life to the fullest, Galt has written Celebrate Your Life! The Art of Celebrating Every Day and will include a copy of her book with each purchase. To view Galt's furnishings for sale including this delicious bedroom set valued at $7000, go to stagersLIST.com, Stores - Melissa Galt. Homeowners or stagers in the Atlanta area may request a private viewing by contacting Melissa Galt directly at 404-788-6528. Galt's items may help others to stage their homes for successful sale with the addition of her unique and beautiful furnishings, creating a desired buyer's lifestyle.

StagersLIST.com has become a key resource for homeowners and professional stagers to purchase new and used furnishings for staging their homes and businesses. Launched in May by Professional Stager Kym Hough and Realtor and Staging Consultant Terrylynn Fisher, the auction-based site provides an ideal vehicle to sell and buy new and used home furnishings BUT that's not the best part. The Site is launching this summer an ASK the EXPERT feature for homeowners and realtors to ask Expert Stagers (our Charter Partners) from their cities staging questions at no COST. For more information on StagersLIST.com or information on becoming the Charter Partner in your area, contact Kym Hough, 925-212-1833 or Kym@StagersLIST.com or Terrylynn Fisher, 925 876-0966 or Terrylynn@StagersLIST.com .

Tea and Cookies anyone?

2008-05-31T02:02:08Z

TEA AND COOKIES ANYONE?

I am of the school that believes that the buyers do want to imagine themselves having tea on the porch or getting ready for a birthday party...it's the next step in the buying process to imagine yourself there and doing the things you'll be doing and/or aspiring to do. And, not just the everyday things but the memory moment things too... playing games in the family room for instance, birthdays, parties, barbeques and popcorn in front of the fireplace.

Buyers spend a lot of money to purchase a home, give up things in order to afford the "American dream", pay way more than rent on a new mortgage payment, and want to know if they'll be eating peanut butter for a couple of months or years, they'll have some luxury or fun thing they can do right at home in the meantime, and there is your digital tv prop, birthday cake, or tea and cookies reminding them the ways they'll be able to enjoy their new home, not just making the payments and being a slave to yard work and upkeep, but really live in it and enjoy the moments that bring satisfaction about their decision.

After the uproar about faux food of late, I wondered where were all the people who have been using faux food in their staged properties. And, I have it on pretty good authority that it is a practice being used pretty widely- Michelle Minch, Kathy Dyer, Kate Hart, Cindy Lin, Melissa Marro, Sheron Cardin to name 6. They all have blogs with gorgeous examples and interesting things about using (and not overusing) faux food in home staging. To complete your knowledge of the subject you may want to read all six blogs as they touch on different aspects and ways of looking at faux food in their staging work.

http://activerain.com/blogsview/505661/Staging-Tips-Using-Fake Michelle Minch

http://activerain.com/blogsview/115351/Staging-flair-with-table Kathy Dyer

http://activerain.com/blogsview/115351/Staging-flair-with-table Kate Hart

http://activerain.com/blogsview/232283/-What-makes-a Cindy Lin

http://activerain.com/blogsview/58462/Faux-iced-tea-coffee Melissa Marro

http://activerain.com/blogsview/108159/Ellen-DeGeneres-Got-StagedOn Sheron Cardin

AND, if you are looking for what we believe are the absolute best buys on faux food www.stagersLIST.com has the best faux food vendor out there. We have purchased the food ourselves and it is amazing in look and quality. No, we don't have any peanut butter sandwiches, yet.

TERRYLYNN FISHER, Diablo Realty, Realtor, Staging Specialist - CSP/Realtor (Certified Staging Professional), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist). Terrylynn is in her 31st+ year in real estate, works in ALL kinds of markets and has a referral directory of Realtors who use similar marketing in your hometown too. She can be reached at 925 876-0966 for referrals or questions. Terrylynn is also the co-founder of StagersLIST.com... The Resource for Stagers, Realtors and Homeowners in North America.

Fallen picture, broken glass and dented wood floor—oh my…

2008-05-27T15:56:13Z

Remember me telling you all about the (http://activerain.com/blogsview/286712/This-is-How-a) time I went to my open house and a picture had fallen on the wood floor (dented it too) and glass was all over the place!!! Oh My! My stager had gone by to check the house, called me and said, "Here's what happened but not to worry, I'm getting my vacuum and it'll be all cleaned up before you get there" (This is one way a stager earns my business for life).

WELL, since that time, I had constantly struggled with the issue of art and how to get it up there with minimal impact on the wall but so it will hold whatever weight I need. Voila - TV had the answer... heavy duty wall hangers, Hercules rings, DRYWALLHOOKS.

The people who invented them (the original was invented in 1992 by an uncle of the young men who now run the family owned company) had an informercial. So I gave them a try.

They hold up to 150 pounds... positively, well I've tried not quite that much, because I didn't want to push my luck, but heavy large mirrors, etc... and they are amazing. I know Joanne O'Donnell of Chic Home Interiors in Oakland uses them in her staging too. They are mighty. A small tool that makes a HUGE difference in speed, and best of all no additional tools needed and easy to patch the tiny (really tiny) hole when you remove them. I LOVE these hooks. And, I might add, have never had a picture fall off the wall since that incident.

Testimonials include;

"I am a former gallery owner and so sorry I did not know about this wonderful product while I owned the gallery.The time I would have saved would have been priceless.The ease and strength are beyond compare."
-Paul Posillico

"I love these hooks! I am a home stager and use them on almost every house I do. They really save me time."
-Mary Bowles, Colorado

I wouldn't recommend them to you if I didn't use them. To find THE original Heavy Duty Drywall hooks go to www.stagersLIST.com under props. We've negotiated a deal that you won't find anywhere 20 hooks for $7.91 but only for 60 days, so stock up. These young men have been fantastic to work with and feel obligated to carry on their uncle's work. They are an honest, family run business with quality product.

What do you need to know to stage for the Luxury Home Market?

2008-05-17T01:06:51Z

Depending on your area, luxury homes can be defined as the top 10% of the price range says the Institute of Luxury Home Marketing. What makes a luxury home staging different?

Well for sellers who understand merchandising and embrace the value that staging has to merchandise their residential real estate investment, the payoffs are maximizing sale price and minimizing time on the market. The higher the education and buying power, the more experience the luxury home client has in working with these concepts.

The luxury home market is generally less affected by downturns in the market as far as pricing, but time on the market is generally longer as there are fewer buyers who can afford the luxury home. As a luxury home comes on the market, the importance of home staging is increased due to the fact that you may have fewer, but more focused showings and need to make the most of each showing to result in a sale. Actually this is true for any priced property, however, the luxury home seller can more easily make the transition from home to commodity that is merchandized and sold for a profit.

A striking difference between luxury homes and lower priced homes would be open houses. Generally in lower price ranges open houses are common and will result in many of the neighbors coming to your home, as well as buyers and then those who just happened to drive by. Luxury home sellers don't often have open houses. They have privacy issues related to their personal belongings, family intrusion and public profile. A luxury home open house is more like an event planned with specific date, time and focus and results in exposure of the home to the target market for that price range and home, if held at all. It is likely to be lavish with refreshments and entertainment, and only happen once.

Showings would be by appointment only and discretion is key. So how do you determine if your home staging professional is right for your luxury home staging?

Understand that home staging started out as a hobby to many. There is nothing wrong with that if they are good at it, however, a professional home stager for luxury homes would have a business plan that included luxury home demographic. Their inventory and portfolio would be varied furniture and accessory types better suited for the style of the home and the demographic of the prospective buyer. The home stager where every home is a variation on the same style and furniture is NOT what a luxury home seller is looking for. They want the staging to match their home's style, architecture and demographic. This is very important for the home staging professional to understand if they are to be chosen by the luxury home owner.

Curb appeal is so important and takes place on the internet these days. When the buyer finally gets to the home, the stylizing of the interior had better match the home style and architecture on the outside. These are sophisticated buyers and potentially chose your home because they like a certain style or architecture, thus that should be consistent throughout the home. The professional luxury home stager knows the difference. They know just how to merge the styles to give the seller the look their demographic is likely to be looking for, along with the perfect "match" to the home architecture and style.

There are many techniques that a professional luxury home stager uses to enhance and showcase your luxury home. For the professional home stager looking to serve the luxury home market, there are classes targeting just that. Or you can find a mentor willing to teach you the ropes. Specialties will be the next big trend in the home staging industry. Find a specialty and add it to your business model and increase your bottom line next year.

Just think how valuable that will be to your Realtor clients!!! It will enhance what they can offer their clients and increase business for both of you while satisfying a niche market client who knows the difference between average and luxury home staging and will value your expertise. WHAT WOULD YOU ADD TO A LUXURY HOME STAGING?

TERRYLYNN FISHER, Diablo Realty, Realtor, Staging Specialist - CSP/Realtor (Certified Staging Professional), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist). Terrylynn is in her 30th+ year in real estate, works in ALL kinds of markets and has a referral directory of Realtors who use similar marketing in your hometown too. She can be reached at 925 876-0966 for referrals or questions. Terrylynn is also the co-founder of StagersLIST.com... The Resource for Stagers, Realtors and Homeowners in North America.

Concord, California - It's going to get easier to recycle!!!!

2008-04-19T15:43:15Z

Concord Disposal is Expanding our Service!

Starting in May and lasting most of the summer, we will receive our new garbage cans. We will have a set of three:

Blue - All recycling (Put it all Together). Include aluminum cans, tin cans, glass bottles and jars, plastic milk/water jugs (HDPE #2), loose newspaper, white paper, colored paper, computer paper, magazines, telephone books, junk mail, plastic soft drink bottles, plastic shampoo, bleach, detergent containers, cardboard (needs to be cut so it will fall out easily), construction paper, chipboard such as cereal and cracker boxes, milk cartons, juice containers. PLEASE CLEAN AND RINSE CANS AND BOTTLES FIRST.

Please DO NOT INCLUDE Pizza Boxes or any recyclable items with food residue.

Brown - Garbage Only! Include all garbage items that are not recyclable. Do not include any househould hazardous items or recyclables.

Green - Yard Waste Only - Include grass clippings, leaves, twigs, old plants or clippings, small tree branches, bush clippings. Do not include plastic bags or plant containers. Place yard clippings directly into the toter without using plastic bags please.

Hazardous Household Waste
Too Toxic to Throw Away!
(All the following items can be taken to 4797 Imhoff Place in Martinez, Tues. - Sat. from 9am - 4pm. Disposal is free of charge for Concord Residents.

Polishers and cleaners
Oven cleaners
Drain openers
Lighter fluid
Paint
Paint thinner and strippers
Fluorescent bulbs
Glues and cement
Gasoline and fuel additives
Pool chemicals
Wood preservatives
Photo chemicals
Grease and rust solvents
Wood and metal cleaners
Used oil and oil filters
Batteries
Insecticides
Cosmetics
Fungicides
Antifreeze
Transmission fluids
Carburetor cleaner

So recycling just got a little easier for us! Woohoo Concord! - Terrylynn

TERRYLYNN FISHER, Diablo Realty, Realtor, Staging Specialist - CSP/Realtor (Certified Staging Professional), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist). Terrylynn is in her 30th+ year in real estate, works in ALL kinds of markets and has a referral directory of Realtors who use similar marketing in your hometown too. She can be reached at 925 876-0966 for referrals or questions.

Todos Santos Plaza Calendar of Events, Concord, CA

2008-04-19T15:22:16Z

Todos Santos Plaza Calendar
Willow Pass Road and Grant Street

Concord Farmer's Market
Tuesdays: Year-round, rain or shine
10am - 2pm
During Acoustic Tuesdays series (July 1-29), 10am - 8pm
Thursdays: May - October
4pm - 8pm

Music & Market Series
May 8 - September 18
Thursdays, 6:30pm - 8pm

MOM Day in the Plaza: Mother's Day
Sunday, May 11 from 2pm - 4pm
Celebrate the day by dining at Todos Santos restaurants and enjoy a special concert in the Plaza.

Bay Area KidFest
Memorial Day Weekend, May 24-26, 11am - 6pm
Three days of fun for the entire family! KidFest Hotline: 925-671-3287

DAD Day in the Plaza: Father's Day
Sunday, June 15, 2pm - 4pm
This event salutes fatehrs with a special free concert in the Plaza and NASCAR surprises.

Music at Noon
Tuesdays, 12:00 noon, May 6 - June 24

July 4th Parade and Festival
Friday, 8am - 2pm; parade at noon
Old fashioned festival with pancake breakfast, crafts, entertainment and parade!

Acoustic Tuesdays
Tuesday evenings, July 1 - 29, 6:30pm - 8pm

TERRYLYNN FISHER, Diablo Realty, Realtor, Staging Specialist - CSP/Realtor (Certified Staging Professional), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist). Terrylynn is in her 30th+ year in real estate, works in ALL kinds of markets and has a referral directory of Realtors who use similar marketing in your hometown too. She can be reached at 925 876-0966 for referrals or questions.

Thank you Elaine Manes! What are you REALLY asking when you ask for a Referral?

2008-04-12T15:05:58Z

Elaine Manes wrote a blog about how to give Realtor referrals to sellers when she works with many realtors. How do you choose whom to give the referral? Thanks Elaine for spurring on the thought.

My comments on her blog were as follows: "Sitting both sides of this fence. Here is what I would say as a Realtor. I would prefer you hand pick the Realtor for the client and if the client trusts you enough to ask, that is what they would like. The seller is really saying - We are asking you to pick someone you think can get the job done for us, pick someone you would trust with our personal LIFE ALTERING decisions, etc. Having said that...THAT is how I choose the Stager for the client. My stagers pretty much can work with anyone but sometimes there is an obvious FIT difference. My being a Staging oriented realtor who CAN stage makes it easier to bridge that gap sometimes, but it's easier just to make a more obvious choice by matching personalities. Thinking about what's best for the client first makes it an easier decision for the client, The stager or realtor may not always understand that but...the referral asked for by the seller is not about what the stager or Realtor want, right? It is for the client.

First and foremost who is the Realtor whose listings always sell? The client is actually asking you for a referral for someone to SELL the property, not just list the property, right? That is now your question. Which of my Realtor clients would best fit with this client, lifestyle, price range and other factors and you choose accordingly? Which Realtor can handle the personality type of this client? It is about the "FIT" of client and Realtor that makes the relationship work with them and with you. The Realtor choice is probably obvious to you as you are a terrific and attentive professional stager and you KNOW the client by the time you are at this stage. So, let your gut be your guide and the touchy part is the script you must prepare for all your realtors. Be honest.

"I take a referral very seriously, the client has told me particulars about their situation and special needs and asked me to find them someone to help. I only wish I had a referral in your area, Susan...and I am working on increasing my business so I will have referrals for you OR all my Realtors next year." or something like that, I am sure one of you ould say better, but you get the gist.

A couple of the comments on Elaine's blog were about NOT giving a referral. There is a person in my real estate office that feels that way. They feel that they might give a referral and if it turns out badly the client will blame them. That is always a possibility of course. Do YOU ask for referrals? Most of us do. Why is that? Let's think about it.

When you ask for a referral of a plumber - you want someone trustworthy, honest and with fair pricing, right? After all, they are in your home and you want to be able to trust them with your privacy, possessions and family before you let them into your home.

When you ask for a referral of an attorney - you want someone trustworthy, who will tell you the truth no matter what; honest and with fair pricing and you want them to be an advocate for you, right? You are trusting them with your life and assets.

When you as for a referral of a CPA - you want someone who has a similar approach to money as you do, (i.e. conservative, a little bit of a risk taker, etc.), honest, trustworthy, tell you the truth and work as an advocate on your behalf. You are trusting them with your finances.

Seeing the theme here? When you ask for a referral you are really saying that you don't know anyone in the field you are asking about that you know well enough to trust and handle your needs the way you need them to. You are thinking the person you have developed the rapport with that you are asking for the referral now knows enough about you to help you with that. You are asking them for someone they know, trust, is honest and an advocate and would work for them the way they would work for you.

THAT is a really big deal. And not one I would take lightly. It tells you THEY TRUST AND VALUE YOUR OPINION. If you do not have anyone you would refer after all that, they wonder if it that you don't trust them with your referred people or you don't trust the people you use for those services. Be careful, it is often the unspoken that makes people's impression of you. You may not mean to be giving an impression about the people you work with, but if you are unwilling to refer them you might be. So, it's ok not to refer, but if you know professionals that would be great matches for that client, why wouldn't you?

TERRYLYNN FISHER, Diablo Realty, Realtor, Staging Specialist - CSP/Realtor (Certified Staging Professional), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist). Terrylynn is in her 30th+ year in real estate, works in ALL kinds of markets and has a referral directory of Realtors who use similar marketing in your hometown too. She can be reached at 925 876-0966 for referrals or questions.

Concord, CA - Diablo Creek (Schenone Court) Active Listings (4/1/08)

2008-04-01T16:04:11Z


1531	2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 1,093 sq. ft.	$299,950
1535	2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 1,093 sq. ft.	$229,900
1584	2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, 1,093 sq. ft.	$320,000

TERRYLYNN FISHER, Diablo Realty, Realtor, Staging Specialist - CSP/Realtor (Certified Staging Professional), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist). Terrylynn is in her 30th+ year in real estate, works in ALL kinds of markets and has a referral directory of Realtors who use similar marketing in your hometown too. She can be reached at 925 876-0966 for referrals or questions.

Concord, CA - Kirkwood Neighborhood Active listings (4/1/08)

2008-04-01T15:58:59Z

Condos

5425 Concord Blvd.	1 bedroom, 1 bath, 762 sq. ft.	$255,000
5460 Concord Blvd.	2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 902 sq. ft.	$189,950
5450 Concord Blvd.	2 bedrooms, 1 bath,902 sq. ft.	$250,000
Single Family
Sepulveda Court	4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2,041 sq. ft.	$477,900
Packard Court	3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2,049 sq. ft.	$525,000
Preston Court	4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2,603 sq. ft.	$674,900
Gonzalez Court	3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,657 sq. ft.	$340,000
Alicante Court	4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2,041 sq. ft.	$499,000

TERRYLYNN FISHER, Diablo Realty, Realtor, Staging Specialist - CSP/Realtor (Certified Staging Professional), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist). Terrylynn is in her 30th+ year in real estate, works in ALL kinds of markets and has a referral directory of Realtors who use similar marketing in your hometown too. She can be reached at 925 876-0966 for referrals or questions.