When I talk to people about what I do for a living, I realize they don't really know as much as they let on. We're a mysterious bunch, we home stagers, but I'm going to let you in on a few things that I've kept secret--until now, that is.
1. There is no "us"
When I write or say "us" or "we", it really means "me". I fly solo, I'm a one-woman band, and I go it alone. Once in a while I ask a family member to help carry a few things, but 99% of the time it's just me coming up with the plan, schlepping stuff around, and implementing my ideas. I guess some home stagers have a "team", but my business, Seneca Home Staging, is just me, myself, and I.
2. What's mine is yours
I often use my own belongings when I stage homes, especially the vacant ones. I knew my painting would be perfect in this living room of an occupied home I staged, so I willingly lent it. There is nothing but an empty hook where it usually hangs in my home.
3. I steal from myself
When I purchase new inventory, I sometimes re-purpose it in my own home after the home sells and I de-stage. It doesn't count as a splurge if I used it for a job I did first!
4. I don't live in a staged home
My own home is neat, clean, and mostly clutter-free, but it isn't for sale, so it doesn't have to be in show condition all the time like the homes I stage. I try to practice what I preach, but it is nearly impossible to live in a staged home on a daily basis.
5. I don't tell all
I can tell when someone just wants to pick my brain, so I don't give out my hard-earned knowledge and expertise. The free advice I give is very general and vague. I will try to convert tire-kickers into paying customers, but I don't give any specific ideas, and I don't give something for nothing.
I realize I don't speak for everyone, but these are my secrets as a home stager. And now you know.
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