Your probably thinking this is another blog with charts and grids of past years vs. current sales, or of capturing the trends in today’s’ market. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. This blog is about Stairs (and I don’t mean the kind you get when your zipper is undone, or when you have toilet paper stuck on your shoes). I’m talking about the houses you show, perhaps 10 in a row, or the Open House you attend, going up and down more times than you can recall. This is how to handle multi-floor homes and the variety of stairs you encounter.
First, wear the proper shoes (athletic trainer shoes should help).
Get a regular physical to make sure you are fit, (who knew Real Estate was physically demanding).
While climbing stairs, you can burn approximately 430 calories per hour, so go for the snacks that may be offered at that Open House, you’ve earned it.
When exploring homes with multiple stairs (a back staircase or servants stairs), take a map or floor plan to discover where you are when descending into unknown territory.
If you are presented with a Palace-like foyer with a double staircase, go up on the right, and down on the left to avoid crashes in traffic. Although, some couples refer to these as his and hers and may suggest you follow their protocol.
Watch out for stairs covered in sheets that are lightly taped down. Many old people use this tactic to cover over warn out stair carpets, as if this looks better.
And if you’re feeling a little tipsy (PMS, Menopause, or a few beers at lunch) try to remember not all stairs go straight up and down (like the kind you drew when you were 5) . They can be curved, spiral, flared, and ones with a landing between smaller groups of stairs (some may call these “relief”).
Remember, as appealing as 9ft and 10ft. ceilings, the higher the first floor ceilings, the more the stairs you will encounter.
Seriously though, Stairs have evolved to be a major selling feature in a house. Most upscale listings feature photo’s showcasing the stairs. They may be regarded as a piece of fine furniture, and adorned as such; some dressed with runners, some with wrought iron rails, some in the finest woods or even in marble with brass rails.
And if you’re a homeowner and you’ve had it with the stairs, you don’t HAVE to move to a ranch style home, (even though it’s a lovely option). You can get a Stair Lift (a seat that carries you up) Although I’d prefer a Stair lifter (a strong hunk that carries you up and down), or an in-home elevator (if money and space permits). If none of these options suit you, call a Realtor they can help, and don’t worry, if you say your having trouble walking, they won’t be giving you any STARES/STAIRS!
Double stair photo, Light Locations,wardour castle entryway Stair Rods restorationonline.com.au
Straight staircase photo, Spenard Builders Supply
Curved and platform photo, Caruso Construction
Comments(49)