Staging a relatively newer home can be trickier than staging a "lived-in" home because they often haven't seen a lick of paint since the builder applied that lovely shade of off-white.

The builder's grade paint is not washable and shows every speck or dirt and hand print. Leaving the walls looking dull and dirty. The problem is amplified by every room looking this way. Try telling the homeowner that they need to paint the house top to bottom and then pull it all together with staging. Most homeowners will become weak in the knees and turn progressive shades of white.

This is where you need to keep it simple. Minimize painting costs by using one main colour to cover the bulk of the home. At a minimum, focus on the master bedroom and dining room, choosing a different colour for each. If you can also include one child's room.

This dining room was painted a neutral colour and a simple table runner and candles added some personality. Cost $40 for paint and $20 for the accessories.

The master bedroom was anything but! The walls were painted a warm coffee colour, side-table accents and fluffy pillows completed the look for $100.

What kids would want to move into this room? A coat of paint cleaned up this room tied in with character bedding and a simple framed poster, revved up this room for $80.

When the entire home needs your home staging attention keep a simple approach with the homeowner. Break the project down into "stages" with fees assigned to each. Give the homeowner the option to just start with the painting and work from there. By giving them the reigns, they be less overwhelmed and more likely to hire you for the whole project!