Hollywood and Homeowners: Less Really is More
Pat Haddad offers some wonderful advice for people who suffer from the need "over-decorate". If you're planning on selling your home, it's in your best interest to keep it simple! Enjoy this great blog post ....
Watching the 62d Annual Emmy Awards Sunday night, I was reminded of an adage that's served me well over the years: Less is More. I don't mean less as in yards of fabric covering your assets, don't get me wrong. I mean fewer ruffles and frills, fewer accessories, fewer hits from the hairspray bottle. In my opinion, the actresses who shone on the red carpet were the ones who toned it down just a bit and let their ensembles enhance, not overpower, their natural beauty. While one young actress was stunning in a simple, gold beaded sheath, another was distractingly weird in a space-age blue frock with hoops and scary spiraled bra cups. She's gorgeous, but even my husband predicted her place atop the Worst Dressed List. When my husband is pointing out Fashion Don'ts, you know you're in trouble!
This rule doesn't just apply to celebrities. When it comes to home decorating, I know many a homeowner who could benefit from a Less is More attitude. If you really want to highlight your house, think like a home stager and be selective about what you bring into it!
As a former I Like It So I Must Need It sort of gal, I've developed a few guidelines that help me resist the urge to over-decorate.
If you don't have a place for it, don't buy it. Chances are if you don't have a spot in mind for whatever you're purchasing, it will end up awkwardly situated somewhere or taking up space in the garage; neither of which is a good choice. Make a list of the things you really need (or really want, since "need" is usually subjective!) and stick to it. That way you won't be sidetracked by all the other interesting and enticing things you come across.
If you don't love it, don't buy it. Unless it's an emergency (as in your husband blew all the wiring in your house and you need a new lamp TODAY) hold out for what you really want. Otherwise, you'll probably just end up replacing it sooner than later.
A blank wall is not a wasted wall. Oh how I wish my parents would buy into this one! Their unique and valuable collections of Native American art cover just about every surface in their sizable house. Unfortunately, it's all so overwhelming that you can scarcely notice the beauty of the individual pieces, much less the interesting architecture of their home.Save something for later. All your treasures don't have to be displayed at once. (Another rule my parents should heed!)If family photographs are taking over rooms, consider switching them out a few times a year. The photographs that you've put away will seem new when you get them out again, and you'll enjoy the memories they recall! And remember, a few really great items artfully displayed make a much bigger impact than a crowded conglomeration!
Considering putting your home on the market? Need home staging tips? I can help! Contact your Indianapolis real estate agent today!
Pat Haddad, ABR, CDPE, CRS, e-Pro, GRI
Haddad Team, Keller Williams Realty
317-840-7555
Indianapolis, IN Real Estate and the surrounding areas of Carmel, Fishers, Geist, Morse, Noblesville, Westfield and Zionsville and everywhere in between. Whether you are buying or selling an Indianapolis home, I'll be with you every step of the way.
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