Staging Quiz - Thoughts and Comments

Here is a reader's response to the staging quiz. Do you agree? What are your thoughts?


The quiz came up on my computer with no problems and did calculate my score. I was SO SURE that I had "Aced" this test but only got 8 out of 10 -- "quick learner but needs improvement".

These were my two problems -- and part of it had to do with the way the question was written (in MY opinion):

Question #2 - packing for the move
My answer was AFTER THE CLOSING because you don't want to pack after listing/while showing, you don't want to clutter up the garage and/or closets, or taking it for granted that an accepted offer on the house will go through without a hitch (and usually the house is STILL being shown for backup offers. AND I THOUGHT that "getting rid of clutter & storing it outside the house" was already addressed in another question (which I answered correctly). The correct answer for #2 was PACK BEFORE THE MOVE -- but I interpreted that option as starting to pack and having some boxes in a corner or in the garage, etc. --which you DON'T want. So I picked the "after the closing" even though that is a nightmare because I have gone through that myself -- having to be out in an agreed upon short time. (I do realize that closing usually means the new owner has immediate possession of the house in most cases.

So perhaps the "before the move" option should also say "and stored off the premises"

Question #4 - rule of three
I answered "NO MORE THAN THREE COLORS IN THE ROOM" based on HGTV'S 25 DON'Ts IN DECORATING. They meant base/dominate colors, of course, but it also included not using pillows and other accessories in every color of the rainbow with your three basic colors. Too busy instead of calming, and the buyers will miss other key elements in the room. The show did address heights but it had to do with groupings like a bookcase, chair, table & lamp, etc. You want mixed heights. They said some people will arrange furniture up against a wall in a stair-step fashion - tall piece, medium piece, and short piece (which of course breaks another rule about your furniture looking like it is in a "police lineup"!)

Arranging accessories in the three mixed heights IS a very good idea, but it is more of an OPTION, not a "must" or "staging rule". Having too many colors (as with having too many frames, collectibles, etc.) is a definite no-no.


However, it was an interesting and eye-opening test and something anyone concerned with decor SHOULD take -- either to stage a house for sale -- or re-stage/decorate to make it welcome for guests and more enjoyable to live in.

Thanks!

Carol
Corpus Christi, TX

I think Carol has some good points. When I took the staging quiz I got 10 out of 10. I had better since that is what I do for a living (ha ha). How about you? Any question that got you stumped?

Julie

Take a fun STAGING quiz

Here is a link to a great little home staging quiz.

HOME STAGING QUIZ

Give it a try but do come back and tell me what you thought. How did you do?

Painting a paneled room

I get lots of questions about painting of paneling. Yes, it can be done and yes, it turns out well if properly prepped. Ideally paneling should be removed and the wall patched and painted - but heck who has time for that?!

Here was a project done this summer:

Before: Dark and Dated:

After:

Bright and up-to-date:

Be sure to prime the walls and have the patience to do multiple coats.

Julie

Bathroom Makeover on a budget

This bathroom makeover was a fabulous transformation in a short time. It was the one and only bathroom in this 1900's house. The makeover had to be quick and it had to be great. Enter The Home Stylist:

Before:

After:

What do you think? Pretty neat, uh?!

The cost: Less than $250.

Changes include: new toliet seat, new mirror and lights

How can I help you make a great transformation? Give me a call (716) 912-1581

Julie

Buffalo Spree's HOME magazine

I received a new magazine in yesterday's mail called HOME by Buffalo Spree.

I have heard rumblings that this new bi-annual magazine was going to be good. It exceeded my expectations. It is GREAT!

The "What is IN and What is OUT" was dead on:

Read more of what is IN at Buffalo Spree's HOME magazine

What do you think? Did you like the new magazine?

Julie

Decorators' Show house - homeless!

Every other year the Junior League of Buffalo and The Buffalo News present a spectacular Decorators' Show House. This year they just can't find a house.
Do you own a house? know of someone? anyone?....The Junior League is just about to start begging and knocking on YOUR door. Here is what they need:

WE NEED A HOME!
The Junior League of Buffalo is in search of the15th Decorators’ Show House 2009.This renowned community fundraiser is held every two years and is co-sponsored by our partner, The Buffalo News. A house with historical and architectural interest is chosen traditionally within the city of Buffalo and is transformed by selected decorators and designers into a stunning Show House. The house is typically 7-8,000 square feet, must have a front and back staircase for proper visitor flow, a carriage house or garage for a boutique and the potential to be restored to its grandeur. Tickets will be sold to the public and the house will be open for viewing
April 27th – May 17th 2009.

If you are even maybe thinking about your house...give them a call and check out their website: www.jlbuffalo.org

A new favorite blog

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love my crockpot. I thought I was the only one who was obsessed with this marvelous appliance...that is until I saw this blog called A Year of CrockPotting.

The author, Stephanie, has pledged to use her crockpot everyday this year. Yes, 365 times straight. She has excellent recipes and great honest feedback (ie tells you when the meal bombs).

In my busy life - mother of two active boys and running my own business (www.thehomestylist.com) - I need and treasure easy meals. Crockpots rule!!!

Check that blog out for great recipes to ease your day.