The "Decorating For Dollars" article, written Elizabeth Razzi (a real estate columnist for the Washington Post) caught my eye this Sunday morning.  It was in our local paper, Connecticut Post, in the real estate section.  I'm a little peeved that our paper ran the article like a news story, when it's really an opinion.  Here's the link:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/26/AR2008072600013.html

As a real estate expert, she doesn't know what professional Staging is really all about.  This is what she wrote:

"I'm still not convinced most buyers need to spend their money on a stager's advice."  (Huh?  Isn't the seller/Realtor spending the money?  She continues...)

"Cash is short, and it could be better spent on the tasks all sellers need to tackle, such as removing or replacing old carpet; repainting in fresh, neutral colors; cleaning and repairing windows; and prettying up the yard."  A professional Stager will advise sellers to tackle all those things before they stage!  As I like to say, I won't put lipstick on a pig!

She does give a pitch for "Home Staging for Dummies" (after all, it's only $20), and says "Still, I hesitate to dismiss the idea, especially for some sellers.  If a couple  of hundred dollars spent on a consultation with a stager can help you gain an edge over competing sellers, go for it." 

Then she decries the "anonymous tastefullness" provided by "these tasteful ladies".  It's not about the decorating - it's about showing off the features of the  house!

Realtors and sellers:  If you have any questions about the value of Staging, contact a couple of your local Stagers.  Most provide consulting and hands-on services at various price levels to get your house sold quickly and profitably.

Julia Maher of Nestings provides high-quality, value-added staging for occupied, vacant and model homes in Fairfield County and Connecticut.