Beautiful Modern Contemporary House Elevation: Color

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Front Door Re-Paint: Six Steps to Choose a Color

<br /> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/front-doorgreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/front-doorgreen.jpg" width="397" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Thinking of changing your front door color? Confused about the choices? There’s only a bazillion possibilities! Let’s take it one step at a time.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Look at Your Siding Color</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Typically, your house siding is the resting spot for eyes, whether it is wood, vinyl, brick, stucco, cement board, stone, or some combination. Your front door should punctuate that space and be the focal point of your home, inviting people to approach. For a cohesive look that still attracts attention, choose a door color that has the same undertones as your siding. The undertones can be muddy, or clear or tints of yellow, grey, blue, red, or green. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you're having trouble coordinating colors, talk to an experienced salesperson at a paint store (not a big box store). He can help harmonize colors for you based on what is recommended by the color experts at the company's corporate headquarters. A trained sales clerk can tell you the undertones because stores have the pigment formulas. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Match the Style of Your Home</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">If your home is a charming cottage, go with a cheerful color like pale yellow or a mid-tone blue. If you own a brick home, stay with colors that don’t emphasize the orange tones, such as muted a green like the one shown above, or a warm grey. If you have a classically restored<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ranch, a Victorian, a Williamsburg-style, or a Craftsman home, stay true to the palettes that are historically correct. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/front-doorauberginewbrick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/front-doorauberginewbrick.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Pick up one of brick's cool tones for a door. This Old House photo.</i></span> </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Go Bold, Not Crazy</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Picture a realtor bringing her clients to your front door. There are those few seconds as the door is being unlocked. Expectations are high. This is your chance to set the tone. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The most popular colors for doors are dark greens and olive greens, classic black, burgundy reds, all shades of grey, navy blues or aubergine, along with  yellows and creamy whites. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">When you move to your next home, you can go nuts with that taxi cab yellow or neon pink, but I advise sticking to front door colors anyone could love, just the way you do with interior colors when you are staging. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Check Your Entryway</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">When guests (and prospective home buyers) enter your home through the front door, the first room they see is the entry. Whether it’s a tiny foyer, a grand staircase, or your whole studio apartment, the interior color should talk to the exterior color. They shouldn’t match, but they shouldn’t clash. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Your home will seem bigger and more intentionally put together when there is a sense of flow. Big is good in the eyes of buyers. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/FrontDoors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/FrontDoors.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>This blue is in the same family as the siding. This Old House Photo.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Study Your Neighborhood</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">I always suggest that people follow local traditions when staging their homes. It’s an opportunity to cash in on the appeal of local flavor, which is especially attractive to people house hunting because they are relocating from another area of the country. Why try to look like a Nantucket cottage if you live in the desert, or imitate an Iowa farmhouse if you live in New Orleans? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Ideally, you’ll strike a happy balance between fitting in and standing out. Pick a color that is not identical to the homes immediately surrounding yours. If your home is not in sight of neighboring houses, you have more leeway. Remember that people are more comfortable buying a home from people they feel simpatico with, people they want to be like. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">So, don’t be the crazy lady with the multicolored front door. Sure, show some style, but don’t narrow your market. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Stick to a Simple Palette</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-choose-paint-color-easy-way.html" target="_blank">Choose a color</a> that is not the same as the siding, trim, shutters, foundation, roof, steps, lattice, or window boxes. Consider your siding as color number one – the largest block of color. Color number two will be your roof, which should harmonize with your siding. Color three is your trim. Color four is your door. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you have shutters or other details, they should relate to one of these colors, a lighter or darker shade of the door, the trim, the roof, or the siding. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/RedFrontDoor-MariaKillam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/RedFrontDoor-MariaKillam.jpg" width="323" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Is a red door for you? See what <a href="http://www.mariakillam.com/ten-best-front-door-colours-for-your-house/" target="_blank">Maria Killam </a>says.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Let Me Just Add...</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Did you know that some new (and even some not-so-new) homes still have just primer on the doors? Builders can, either through frugality or negligence, leave side doors and back doors without anything more than a factory prime. Often these doors are grey, but they can be white. Do any of your doors look like they received only a quick spray at the factory? Are they showing wear around the edges and knob? It’s time for a coat of paint. Side doors and back doors can match siding or trim. They should not be the same color as the front door. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you have a storm or screen door, painting it to match the front door is one possibility that has worked for some. Others remove the storm or screen door while the home is on the market, for a cleaner look. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />If you live where your neighborhood association or HOA dictates or limits your color selection, make the best of it by keeping your door in excellent repair and clean. That includes the area around your doorway. Cobwebs and debris seem to find a way to accumulate there overnight. Make sure you have <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/04/need-some-curb-appeal-dress-up-your.html" target="_blank">something seasonal </a>to dress up the area and to make the entrance feel fresh and friendly. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Don’t plant flowers or shrubs that will fight for attention with your front door. Keep it simple and make the door the magnet that draws buyers. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/greydoor-capecodecollegiate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/greydoor-capecodecollegiate.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Don't ignore brown, white or grey as possible colors. House and Home Photo.</i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">If you own a home with vinyl siding and you and everyone else hates the color,<a href="http://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/paint-colors-by-collection/vinylsafe-colors-for-vinyl-siding/" target="_blank"> it can be painted.</a> There are paints formulated just for vinyl. I once knew a spec home that was sided with sky blue vinyl. It sat on the market for two years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally the desperate builder had the siding repainted a warm, light yellow. The house sold in a matter of weeks. Along the same lines, I once owned a home with aluminum siding that had dulled over time. I was able to brush on a new coat of paint in a fresh color that brought it back to life. Although most people consider vinyl and aluminum siding a plus because it is low maintenance and painting it will require a repaint in years ahead, you might decide painting is necessary to attract a buyer. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Avoid high gloss paint finishes. A low-luster stain or semi-gloss will wear well and hide any imperfections. If you are sold on a glossy door, your door should be in prime condition. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you want an inclusive, fun post about <a href="http://jpdschoolofdesign.blogspot.com/2013/07/exterior-house-colors.html" target="_blank">paint colors in American history</a>, I recommend reading what <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Joe Davis writes.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Your front door is the centerpiece of that all-important view from the street. <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/girls-guide-to-painting-your-front-door.html" target="_blank">Painting it</a> yourself is an economical and simple improvement. These guidelines should help you decide on the perfect color. For more tips on boosting your home's value for the real estate market, read <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">my $5 eBooks</a>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />Top photo: National Builders Supply.</div>

Front Door Re-Paint: Six Steps to Choose a Color

Thinking of changing your front door color? Confused about the choices? There’s only a bazillion possibilities! Let’s take it one step at a...

2:00 AM

Staging Your Home for the Summer Months

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/vintageposterCA-CustomVintageSigns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/vintageposterCA-CustomVintageSigns.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>When people purchase a home they buy a vision of their future. And most people's vision of summer is a happy one. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Now  that summertime is here, it's the time to double-check your  homestaging. Does it capitalize on the happy vibes of the season?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I've  collected a series of photos that I think captures the spirit of  summer, one of the busiest home-buying times of the year.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I hope you'll  take inspiration and ideas from these images, and make the most of summer  staging so you'll land a purchase offer you love!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Summertime staging can incorporate a little whimsy without looking goofy. Try some humorous or nostalgic touches in small spaces or outdoors. How about some silly sayings on your guest bath towels? Or vintage beach scenes framed in the hallway? Maybe some  whirligigs outside a colorful garden shed? <br /><br />A <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/04/need-some-curb-appeal-dress-up-your.html#.U54ND9gU-M8" target="_blank">summer wreath of fabric,</a> shells, or bright summer flowers on the front door welcomes people touring your home. Pots of blooming plants near your entrance are a must if you're working on boosting your curb appeal. You can <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/05/sell-your-home-and-then-move-your.html" target="_blank">take potted plants with you when you move</a>, so splurge on pretty containers and interesting plants.  <br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Look for props that spell summer fun, especially if you live near a summer destination like a pool, lake or beach. Incorporate fun things like picnic baskets, sand pails and flip flops, seaside relics like coral, rope and shells, or souvenirs like framed art from a vacation destination.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/outdoorseatsfinegardening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/outdoorseatsfinegardening.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Every outdoor space needs seating, and it doesn't have to be pricey or trendy. Find a shady corner to stage   a relaxing setting. Photo: Fine Gardening.  </span></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/backyard-dining-Sunsetmag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/backyard-dining-Sunsetmag.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Turning a <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/05/best-tips-for-staging-your-porch.html" target="_blank">porch</a> into an outdoor eating and entertaining area is like adding a room. Photo: Sunset.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>  <br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/firepitHGTV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/firepitHGTV.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>A backyard fire pit is a plus, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBzHX5Sf1fk" target="_blank">a simple fire ring</a> is a do-able DIY project. Photo: HGTV.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>  </i></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><i>  </i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><img height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiJmPrXGgCOwP6YUgHxe-9pKhWBmifDyjTpf0jNMbb5GqOOdrRUgTLv6BepOwNQaqG9OJB-Kh152PIggGtBumeZYCk8A9cHphZ8PNBAhyQEsSQTicPa2PFFRqz1V28ixU7JxYzMd2PfF5GxhDMY9AVap6WXbVG-TDO25FYsZcpV1avNfcId6LPmX9KBCsM=" style="left: 184px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 2568px;" width="72" /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1090730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="443" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1090730.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Summer months are gardening time, and everyone wants homegrown tomatoes. Add some pots to the yard, balcony, deck or patio that remind buyers of summer meals. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/collectionofprintsHGTV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/collectionofprintsHGTV.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Indoors, collections can remind buyers of the local sights and pleasures. Photo: HGTV</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/rockfireplaceBHG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/rockfireplaceBHG.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Seasonal color schemes focus on cool pastels or crisp blues and white. Photo: BHG</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/slipcoversloftandcottageblogspot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/slipcoversloftandcottageblogspot.jpg" width="556" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>White slipcovers and summer are a tight twosome. Easy-care furnishings will give your home a casual. lived-in feeling that is attractive to all home buyers.</i> <i><a href="http://loftandcottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Loft and Cottage BlogSpot.</a></i></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/driftwoodmirrorcompletelycoastal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/driftwoodmirrorcompletelycoastal.jpg" width="504" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Even if your home is nowhere near the coast, driftwood and other natural elements add that touch of nature that is part of summer's lifestyle. Photo via <a href="http://www.completely-coastal.com/" target="_blank">Completely Coastal</a>.</i></span><br /><div align="left">   </div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/ShippaintingsHouseBeautiful-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/ShippaintingsHouseBeautiful-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Nautical, beachy or tropical artwork</span></i> <i><span style="font-size: small;">is perfect for summer staging. Photo: House Beautiful. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/keywestarttropicalcoastalliving-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/keywestarttropicalcoastalliving-1.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A master bedroom can suggest an exotic retreat or vacation spot. Photo:</span></i> <span style="font-size: small;"><i>Coastal Living</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/vanessafrancisdesigndiningrm-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/vanessafrancisdesigndiningrm-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Even formal settings benefit in summer from some laid back furnishings like sisal rugs and painted furniture.</span></i> <i><span style="font-size: small;">Photo: Vanessa Francis Design, K West Images</span></i> </td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/mantelcentsgirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="527" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/mantelcentsgirl.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A fireplace mantel can reflect the mood of summer even though the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/07/how-to-stage-fireplace-when-its.html#.U54I7dgU-M8" target="_blank">fireplace is "closed for the season."</a> Photo: Centsational  Girl.</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;"></span></i><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-size: small;">I hope you'll find small and not-so-small ways to showcase the joys of summer for househunters. No matter where you live or what size, style or age your home is, there's always opportunities to "summarize" it. Doing so will help buyers imagine their summer cookouts, staycations, and celebrations at your house once they've bought it!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">If you are staging your own home (or someone elses!) my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">$5 homestaging eBooks</a> make it easy. I've been there, and I share all my tips for making a house the one buyers want.    </span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Top Photo: <a href="http://www.custom-vintage-signs.com/" target="_blank">Custom Vintage Signs</a></div><br />

Staging Your Home for the Summer Months

When people purchase a home they buy a vision of their future. And most people's vision of summer is a happy one. Now that summertime...

2:30 AM

Questions about Faucet Choices, Paint Colors, and Wicker Furniture

<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1090097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1090097.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> We’re getting ready to sell our home. The faucets in both bathroom sinks match the faucets in the tub and shower stalls.<br /><br />They all work and are in good condition, but they are shiny chrome, and dated. Should I invest in new ones that look more in step with the times? – Sarah H.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A:</span></b> Spend your money somewhere else. There’s no sense removing and replacing this kind of hardware that is functioning just fine.<br /><br />The fact that they are all the same style makes them appear new-ish, more like what you might find in a new house rather than an older one that’s had repairs over the years when things broke. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I would give the same advice to people with “dated” hinges and doorknobs, and even window locks. Working, and matching, keep them! When it comes to hardware like this, unless you want to purchase pricey top of the line stuff, most of what you buy today doesn't compare to the quality commonly available even a few decades ago.   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> I am planning to stage the condo we just moved out of. It’s vacant except for a dining set, some end tables, and lamps. I’d like to add some wicker furniture because that’s easy to find at reasonable prices here in <st1:state w:st="on">Florida</st1:state>. What do you think of wicker?  -- Erica S. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>As long as it is in good condition and comfortable, I would use wicker. Make sure any cushions look new and that the colors or patterns are not too bright or distracting. You’ll probably need a few pieces of contemporary or vintage upscale furniture (or what looks upscale) as well, so the condo doesn’t look too budget-conscious. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I don't recommend using outdoor wicker indoors. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/liz-williams-interiors-amelia-island1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/liz-williams-interiors-amelia-island1.png" width="492" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Wicker doesn't have to be white. But in a staged room it probably <br />shouldn't be neon pink and lime green either. These simple wicker headboards <br />got a style boost from black paint. Photo: Liz Williams Interiors</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> All the rooms in my house are now different colors – mint green in the living room, a burnt orange in the family room, peach in one bedroom and blue in another. I want to paint all the rooms myself, and paint them all the same color. Doing one at a time, I know I can do it. My question is how do I figure out what color that will work with all the rooms?   -- Justine P.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>Good for you for tackling the staging job yourself! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">You need to determine what elements in all your rooms will remain in the house and then find a color that works with these “fixed fixtures.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">These fixtures could be the vinyl or tile in the bath, for example, or the carpet in the bedrooms. I would bring home from the paint store all the brochures that feature shades of neutrals and white, and find one color that has the undertones that harmonize with all your fixed fixtures. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I've blogged about the details of <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-choose-paint-color-easy-way.html" target="_blank">how to choose a paint color</a>. And, yes, white walls are fine for staging!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/a2c633f4db1a009a2fd9024e17686bef1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/a2c633f4db1a009a2fd9024e17686bef1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">White walls make it easy for you to use the furnishings you already own,<br />and white walls make it easy for the new owner to postpone painting.<br />There's a reason museums and art galleries use white walls.<br />It  makes a great background color.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q: </span></b>Our home is for sale, and we have moved to a nearby town. The house is clean and empty. What can I do to make it sell fast?  Don’t say add furniture because there is no way I can afford that.  -- Keesha M.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>I understand. Although I always recommend <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/02/strategies-for-staging-vacant-house.html" target="_blank">staging an empty home</a>, my experience is that if a house is clean, in good repair, and priced right, you will find a buyer. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Make sure there is no deferred maintenance (a home inspection would help). The walls and possibly the trim should be freshly painted or at least look like they have been recently painted. And if there is carpet, it should be new or appear new. These are investments that pay off with a faster sale. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Good appliances, updated light fixtures, and extra-special curb appeal will sweeten the deal. Here are some other <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/08/staged-and-vacant.html" target="_blank">tips for selling an unoccupied home</a>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> We are listing our home with a realtor. He took a photo of the house just after it snowed. It looks pretty but I don’t want people to think about problems like snow when they see the photo, which will be the featured photo in our MLS listing. The exterior won’t look great until spring. What can I do meanwhile? -- Rachael and Alex B.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>There isn’t much you can do unless you have another <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/how-not-to-photograph-your-home.html" target="_blank">photo of your house in</a> another season. Most people don’t, so there is a lesson here for all home owners: Even if you are not thinking of selling your home immediately, having good pictures of your home in different seasons can come in handy in the future. <br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-bigstock-Middle-Class-House-547336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-bigstock-Middle-Class-House-547336.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A photo of a snow covered property can be charming, but the profile photo <br />of your home on a listing should be current with the season so the home doesn't <br />appear to have been on the market for a long time.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">When your exterior gets some springtime color, you can substitute another photo. Meanwhile, just be glad your realtor didn’t photograph your house when the snow turned mushy, icy and dirty.   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Don't forget that you can get answers to the most common home staging questions, plus much, much more, in my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">$5 home staging eBook</a>, <i>DIY</i> <i>Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar. </i></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>

Questions about Faucet Choices, Paint Colors, and Wicker Furniture

Q: We’re getting ready to sell our home. The faucets in both bathroom sinks match the faucets in the tub and shower stalls. They all work a...

2:00 AM

Year in Review: Helping You Look Ahead

Now that all the ho-ho-hoing is behind us, it's time to jump into 2014 with fresh goals and sweet expectations. A popular inspirational quote on Pinterest now advises: "Don't follow your dreams, chase them!"  Maybe you have dreams of selling your home. <br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-1-P1040264_zpsdc1f0bf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-1-P1040264_zpsdc1f0bf2.jpg" width="347" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">My blog is supposed to help you stage your home.<br />It's 2014. How am I doing?  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>With that possibility in mind, I've gathered the posts from this blog that more people read in 2013, the posts they liked and shared on Facebook, commented on, and pinned on Pinterest.<br /><br />To this list, I've added the posts I personally think will help you the most when you are staging a home for sale. <br /><br />To kick things off, in January I blogged about assessing your own staging efforts. Most people have difficulty judging their own work. I devised a simple test to see if your <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/can-your-home-pass-this-staging-quiz.html" target="_blank">home staging tricks</a> are all that they can be. Just answer the questions and you'll know if what you've done to get your home sold is on track.<br /><br />Some readers and Facebook friends told me I was giving away too many secrets when I wrote about the pros and cons of tackling DIY staging, but I like readers to make their own choices. Here's what to read if you are wondering if you should <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/03/should-you-stage-your-own-home-or-hire.html" target="_blank">stage your own home or hire a stager</a>.<br /><br />In May I waxed all nostalgic about my love affair with porches. Porches add value to a home, but even if your house doesn't have a real porch, decks and patios can be just as charming to buyers. Learn how to stage a front porch and your curb appeal can skyrocket. <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/05/best-tips-for-staging-your-porch.html" target="_blank">Stage any porch</a> and you've added usable square footage to your home.   <br /><br />I recently viewed a home and was asked what to change about the decor. The single mistake that stood out was a lack of pattern. All walls, all draperies, all upholstery and all flooring were solid colors. If you are afraid of adding pattern, you need to get over it! Please read this post to learn <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/08/how-to-make-patterns-work-for-your-home.html" target="_blank">how to mix patterns.</a><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/decorpadtwinbeds_zps2aee0b27.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/decorpadtwinbeds_zps2aee0b27.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Bedroom and living room furniture define the lifestyle a home portrays. Find out why<br />mid century modern furniture is ideal for staging. Photo: Bryght Modern Furniture.    </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Since I think <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/03/what-you-should-know-about-mid-century.html" target="_blank">mid century modern furniture</a> is beautiful, I'm glad many readers agreed. You don't need to live in a 1950's ranch house to make the most of this style's clean lines and classic textiles. Discover all the reasons why MCM designs are safe choices for effective home staging. <br /><br />Who doesn't love a makeover? I kept the chair my friend Rhys wanted to throw out because I knew I wanted to experiment with painting fabric. It was one DIY project that received a good number of Pins, and a makeover I really had some fun with. Go visit my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/how-to-beautify-ugly-microfiber-chair.html" target="_blank">microfiber chair repaint</a>.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1040958_zps586f18af.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1040958_zps586f18af.jpg" width="324" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">My husband is a rock star to my mind. <br />He taught me all his professional <br />painting secrets. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>But this tutorial on <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/diy-project-overhead-garage-door-re.html" target="_blank">painting an overhead garage door</a> received even more views and Pins. If you are not a blogger yourself, you may not realize all the planning and details that go into making a good tutorial. When someone else is doing the work -- my own Mr. Lucky in this case -- and I am the photographer and note-taker, a tutorial is a whole lot easier to put together.<br /><br />I wrote a few posts about <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/09/five-rules-for-staging-mantel.html" target="_blank">how to stage a mantel</a>, but this one seems to have the best advice, all in a nutshell. Learning how to put together a pretty mantel is an excellent exercise to hone your skills for tablescaping and accessorizing any room. The same rules apply. Check 'em out.<br /><br />People who know me know I am happiest when I'm fooling around with plants. Whether you are a gardener or not, your home will benefit from a few strategically placed potted plants. Here's the skinny on <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/06/quick-and-dirty-tips-for-plant.html" target="_blank">how to choose containers for container plants. </a><br /><br />It's common knowledge that <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/08/dont-be-tv-diva-when-you-paint-walls.html" target="_blank">painting a room</a> is one of the best ways to spend time and money when you're selling a house. As a professional housepainter, it drives me a little batsy to see people do it wrong, wasting energy or getting poor results. Please don't let that be you. Do yourself a favor and follow my simple room-painting pointers.<br /><br />Those are my Top Ten. If putting your home on the market is part of the plans you have for 2014, I sincerely hope that these posts and my blog and <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>s help you reach your goals.<br /><br />I am looking forward to an exciting year ahead as my blog continues to grow, thanks to readers like you. I value each one of you, and hope you'll continue following my home staging adventures in the coming months. I have so many ideas and projects to share with you!<br /><br /><br />

Year in Review: Helping You Look Ahead

Now that all the ho-ho-hoing is behind us, it's time to jump into 2014 with fresh goals and sweet expectations. A popular inspirational ...

2:00 AM

Why Hasn't My Home Sold?

<div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/gingerbread-house-detail-3_zps82e8aa47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/gingerbread-house-detail-3_zps82e8aa47.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Delicious house, but no one's biting? </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Are you getting antsy to move? Has your home been on the market and not getting the showings or offers you expected?<br /><br />If so, here are some questions you can ask yourself to test possible reasons. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Money, Honey</span></b></o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">"Is my price fair?" </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Unrealistic expectations or an over-zealous listing agent can cause poor pricing. Work with your realtor to list your home’s assets and liabilities, then do the comps to see if your price is on target. An inflated price is usually the cause of a home that sits too long.    </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Your Point Person</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">"Do I have the wrong listing agent?" </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Re-examine your realtor. If FSBO, consider calling a real estate company and discussing the commission and other conditions.<br /><br />Look closely at the way your home is being marketed. The online listing should be tempting and accurate. The <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/how-not-to-photograph-your-home.html" target="_blank">MLS photos</a> should be clear and complete without being repetitive. Today’s homes need to be marketed in a variety of ways – the front yard sign, yes, but also flyers, Internet sites, open house showings, email blitzes, communications with other realtors.<br /><br /><span id="goog_412716634"></span><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/08/how-not-to-hire-realtor.html" target="_blank">Choosing a realtor</a><span id="goog_412716635"></span> is an important decision. Choose one with whom you have good rapport. Your listing agent has to be well-connected with other agents, not a loner or someone unpopular in the industry. If you have qualms about your agent, talk to the firm’s broker or owner. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Problem Attitude</span></b></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">"Am I being cooperative enough? "</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Make sure your home is easy to show. There should be a lock box on your property to make showing easy for all area agents. If your realtor has to give unrealistic advance notice to show your property, because you have pets or medical problems, or the house isn’t always tidy enough, then find a way around the problem.<br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/purpledoor_zps16f5b51c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/purpledoor_zps16f5b51c.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A lock box won't ruin your curb appeal when your entrance is this pretty.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Have a frank talk with your realtor and ask for feedback. You could also solicit advice from a friend with good decorating sense or a home stager. Double check <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/are-you-reason-your-home-isnt-selling.html" target="_blank">your motivation and reasons for selling</a>. Are you a foot-dragging, reluctant seller? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Quirkiness</span></b></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">"Is there something off-putting about my home?" </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Does it have too much personality, or problems that are a turn-off? Does it smell of untended litter boxes? I’ve seen homes with <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-choose-paint-color-easy-way.html" target="_blank">paint colors</a> only an aging hippie could love and a back yard that only a pack of dogs could love. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">When people see a group of homes, yours may be remembered as the one with poor lighting or the pool with stagnant green water or low ceilings or 1970’s shag carpeting. Find solutions to these problems or expect low ball offers or no offers. People want homes ready to move into. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you decide to make major changes to your property, remove it from the market, do the repairs, cleaning and staging, and then relist. New listings get attention.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;">No Temptations</span></b></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">"Have I done what I can to make the house desirable?"</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Buyers should feel like they are entering a boutique hotel suite when they enter your home. If you haven’t been able to deep clean the house, consider hiring a cleaning service. A house can’t be too clean! Make sure all small and distracting décor items have been replaced with open space or attractive accessories.<br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/100556269jpgrenditionlargest1_zps4f63798b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/100556269jpgrenditionlargest1_zps4f63798b.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Clean, functional and luxurious -- that's what buyers want in a bath. Photo: BHG</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If necessary, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/10/the-trends-that-can-update-your-home.html" target="_blank">update</a>some of the fixtures like lights, faucets, shower heads, window treatments. Study <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/barbarapilcher/" target="_blank">my Pinterest boards </a>to see what décor trends make sense for home staging.</div><div class="MsoNormal">                                                                                       </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">The Economy</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">"Is my market too sluggish?" </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Major metropolitan areas are bouncing back from the recession. Other areas, not so much. If your area has way too many homes for sale and not enough buyers, your response might be patience. wait for a better season ahead. You can always <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/07/the-pros-and-cons-of-renting-your-home.html" target="_blank">rent your home</a> until the market improves. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you just want to move on, lower your price to counteract the cold market. Calculate the costs of staying put -- your taxes, mortgage interest, maintenance, and utilities, then factor them into your price considerations. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Buyers often won’t mention price as an obstacle to making an offer because they don’t want to appear cheap, rude or unappreciative. Instead they will say, “The bedrooms are too small,” or “I didn’t like the neighborhood,” something that can’t be changed. A low price compensates for all kinds of things, including obstacles like dated appliances, ugly flooring, poor curb appeal, or a bad view. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Meanwhile, make your home irresistible. You can encourage buyers to make an offer by helping with closing costs, owner financing part of the price, or letting things like window treatments, big televisions, outdoor furniture, and laundry appliances convey with the sale.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/content_writing_up_an_offer1_zps0dacdf4e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/content_writing_up_an_offer1_zps0dacdf4e.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Motivated buyers will find a way to justify your asking price. Photo: reddoor-re.com</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Looking Ahead</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">It’s an introspective time of year, a time when most of us review the hits and misses of the past 365 days and sets some goals for the year ahead. So, it’s a natural time to examine why your house hasn’t sold. Here’s to a prosperous 2014, when your home will sell and you’ll find another home that your love.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Be sure to download my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar. </i>I've helped hundreds of people stage their own homes to make them sell faster. My book tells you how<i> </i>to ready your home for a quick and profitable sale, no matter where you live or what kind of home you have.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>Top Photo: <a href="http://www.theredheadbaker.com/">http://www.theredheadbaker.com</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>

Why Hasn't My Home Sold?

Delicious house, but no one's biting? Are you getting antsy to move? Has your home been on the market and not getting the showings or o...

2:00 AM

Polka Dot Pumpkins and Getting Thrifty

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070049_zpsecd8ad6d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070049_zpsecd8ad6d.jpg" width="392" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Do you want to sell your home? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Is it staged to tell home buyers that you care about your home?<br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It doesn’t take much to put out a happy, positive message to buyers, starting with the outside entry.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Sweep the area near the door. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Knock down the cobwebs. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Put out a new <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/08/curb-appeal-hows-that-welcome-mat.html" target="_blank">welcome mat</a>. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Maybe<a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/girls-guide-to-painting-your-front-door.html" target="_blank"> paint the front door. </a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Now’s the time to add some seasonal décor, too. You have most of October and November to show your colors – the colors of autumn. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Keep It Simple</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I concentrated on green this fall. And it worked fine indoors. But green just doesn’t have the punch for a festive front entry.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">So, I chose black, white and orange as a theme. I recycled a grapevine wreath I made a couple years ago by striping it, spraying it white, and gluing on some bows and balls. I made three fabric pumpkins. And I bought some mums. Done.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">With those elements, I was able to dress up this home’s front step.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070069_zps76107d42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070069_zps76107d42.jpg" width="509" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I hung the wreath on the storm door so it could be seen from the road.<br />I prefer a grapevine wreath to one of foam or straw because it's <br />lightweight and stands up to all kinds of weather.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070073_zps9fb51623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="433" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070073_zps9fb51623.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Polka dots are one of my favorite patterns, and I think most people are charmed by<br />them, so I made three polka dot bows. I like to use odd numbers  when constructing<br />a wreath. A 40% off coupon saved me when I bought these plastic (unbreakable!) <br />bulbs that came as a package from Michaels. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070066_zps0f8df692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070066_zps0f8df692.jpg" width="601" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A strip of ribbon glued to a plain plastic flower pot dresses it up.<br />It was the scrap I had left from a roll of ribbon.  The mums tie the colors<br />of the front door to the colors in the wreath. </span></i><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></i></div><i><span style="font-size: small;"></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></o:p></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070062_zpsd730151e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070062_zpsd730151e.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Fabric pumpkins are surprisingly easy to make. These three took me about an hour, <br />from ironing the fabric to gluing on the driftwood stems. Start with a long rectangle,<br />stitch or glue the short ends together, then gather the long ends and stuff.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070060_zps0d7a9051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070060_zps0d7a9051.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Drapery weight fabric works best for pumpkins. These sit under a porch roof, so <br />they are protected from wet weather. I stuffed them with filling from an old pillow.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070059_zps6bae00bc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070059_zps6bae00bc.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Don't ask me why I had bright orange polka dot fabric in the back of <br />my fabric closet, but it came in handy to repeat the wreath's polka dot motif. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070058_zps4836be57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1070058_zps4836be57.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The fabric for this pumpkin is a old linen tablecloth. The silk </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">leaves and embroidery thread wrap-arounds are optional. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Whether your home is for sale, or you just want a welcoming entryway, now’s the time of year to celebrate fall and boost your curb appeal at the same time. It's easy and economical if you do it yourself, keep it simple, and recycle. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you are selling your home and you want encouragement and a whole host of tips for staging it yourself, download my popular <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">$5 eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar. </i></div>

Polka Dot Pumpkins and Getting Thrifty

Do you want to sell your home? Is it staged to tell home buyers that you care about your home? It doesn’t take much to put out a happy, pos...

5:00 AM

How to Use Today's Trendy Grey and Yellow Palette

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/bedbhg_zpsc68c355c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/bedbhg_zpsc68c355c.jpg" width="480" /></a>Looking for a crowd-pleasing color combo that looks clean and contemporary to make your home attractive to buyers? I vote for grey and yellow.<br /><br />I'll admit that when -- just a couple years ago -- I started seeing greys in photo spreads and hearing greys talked about as the new neutral, I was all, no way! <br /><br />Now, I see what a workhorse greys can be. I thought greys would be depressing, dark and dinghy. Not so. They are chic and soothing. They have many variations, from cool and clear, to muddy and warm, and everything in between. They're easy to combine with all kinds of other colors, but do well on their own.<br /><br />Grey is the up-to-the-moment decorating darling color now, and bound to hold that position for a years to come. Yellow is the current companion that makes it look new. Yellow is always in <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/five-simple-ways-to-add-style-to-your.html" target="_blank">style</a>.<br /><br />In other words, you can't go wrong with this twosome as long as --<br /><ul><li>You keep the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/03/pastel-colors-good-or-bad-for-staging.html" target="_blank">colors on the lighter side</a>. </li><li>The colors in one room flow with the colors in adjoining rooms.</li><li>There are no jarring accent colors.</li><li>The greys you choose are all in the same <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-choose-paint-color-easy-way.html" target="_blank">color family</a>. The same for the yellows. </li></ul><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">The Trick to Choosing a Great Grey: Undertones</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/chairwtwopatterns_zps8e7fbbc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/chairwtwopatterns_zps8e7fbbc1.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Shopping for fabrics, drapes, linens, upholstered <br />pieces, lamps, or pillows? You'll have plenty of <br />grey and yellow options this season. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>One advantage to painting with greys is that they cover well. That's why many primers are tinted grey.<br /><br />Whereas some colors, particularly yellows and reds, often require two coats to completely mask a previous paint color, greys absorb light and so they mask well.<br /><br />Whether you're <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/painting-furniture-dont-make-these.html" target="_blank">painting furniture</a> or walls, you can save time and money by going with grey. But how do you determine the right grey when you're starting from scratch?  </div><div><br /></div><div>To help you decide, look at the darkest version of any grey on the color strip at the paint store. It will help you see what the undertones are.<br /><br />For example, Sherwin Williams "Wallflower" is almost lilac, but you might not notice that unless you look at the other end of the same strip and see the saturated maroon chip. Their "Silver Strand" has olive brown undertones, which is apparent when you look at the dark end of the color strip. If you're looking for a bluish grey, you'll find it at on the strip that has navy colors on the dark side, and greys named "Icy," and "Solitude" on the same strip. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once you have a color grey you want to use, whether you are painting with it or just using it to match something like fabric, previously <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/10/painted-furniture-home-stagings-friend.html" target="_blank">painted furniture</a>, carpeting or tile, carry the paint chip with you as a sample when you are making your home staging decorating decisions. The other greys in the room needn't match, but they should share the same undertone.  </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/hgtvbath_zps3f006d65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="466" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/hgtvbath_zps3f006d65.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">If you have some existing fixtures that are grey, whether it's tiles, carpeting, appliances,<br />or upholstered pieces, finding the right shade of yellow will update them. Photo: hgtv.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livrmluckypinkelephants_zps0b29e323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livrmluckypinkelephants_zps0b29e323.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A soft grey like this is an ideal color choice for home staging.</span></i> <i><span style="font-size: small;">The </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">yellow accents here add texture and warmth. Photo: Luckypinkelephants.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/mcmlivrmplummersfurniture_zpse3df7d9a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/mcmlivrmplummersfurniture_zpse3df7d9a.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">If you don't have new grey and yellow upholstered pieces like these, you do know that<br />you can slipcover or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/how-to-beautify-ugly-microfiber-chair.html" target="_blank">paint upholstered pieces</a>, right? Photo: Plummers Furniture. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/Blog-GreyandyellowBHGbdrm_zps923ac255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/Blog-GreyandyellowBHGbdrm_zps923ac255.jpg" width="444" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Black and white are perfect foils for a grey and yellow room. They add<br />a certain crispness to the space. This photo and top two photos: bhg. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livrmhomesdirect_zps415f58a9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livrmhomesdirect_zps415f58a9.jpg" width="474" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">If you don't want to commit to an all-over gray and yellow color palette, <br />you can limit your yellow to frugal or dispensable accessories. The grey<br />furnishings will be your neutral pieces in the future. Photo: DirectHomes.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>The colors you choose for decorating your home can make or break your home staging  Greys mixed with yellows give you a safe route that's on trend and versatile. <br /><br />For much more advice on colors, accessories, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/08/how-to-arrange-furniture-most-common.html" target="_blank">furniture arrangement</a>, cleaning, decluttering, landscaping, and other projects for staging your own home, download my $5 <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast for  Top Dollar. </i>It comes with my money back guarantee. </div>

How to Use Today's Trendy Grey and Yellow Palette

Looking for a crowd-pleasing color combo that looks clean and contemporary to make your home attractive to buyers? I vote for grey and yello...

2:00 AM

How to Make Patterns Work for Your Home Staging

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1060363_zps322fb8da.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1060363_zps322fb8da.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Pattern mixing 101: Keep it simple.<br />This place setting is just squiggles and stripes, <br />done in members of the blue family </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Every staged home runs the risk of looking plain vanilla ho hum ordinary.<br /><br />But with the clever injection of some texture and pattern, your DIY staging will hit the mark and win the hearts of buyers.<br /><br />Texture mixing is pretty simple. Just incorporate a variety of surface treatments and material -- shiny metals, rusted metals, nubby fabrics, silky fabrics, furry fabrics, smooth woods, distressed woods...You really can't overload textural interest unless you're overloading colors as well.<br /><br />But <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/decorating-with-patterns-101.html" target="_blank">pattern mixing</a> is a little trickier. You <i><b>can </b></i>overload patterns.<br /><br />Also, when you combine patterns for home staging, it's not the same as mixing patterns for personal decorating. <br /><br />I'm here to help. Here are a few simple guidelines specifically geared to home staging.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Color Counts </span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Keep the color palette of your textile prints simple. Limit yourself to two or three colors per room. The trend now is towards more colorful rooms, more saturated colors, more unusual colors. Don't go there. Play it safe with colors that any home buyer could relate to. <br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1060357_zps934fb109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1060357_zps934fb109.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A bed-in-a-bag and a beagle. She loves to<br />make a nest in my co-ordinated <br />Waverly fabrics purchased 10 years ago.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Choose neutrals and pastels that are not distractions on a home tour. Your pattern colors should pick up some of the neutral colors in the room. Choose either clear hues or muddy hues. Choose either intense colors or muted <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/03/pastel-colors-good-or-bad-for-staging.html" target="_blank">pastels</a>, not both.<br /><br />Determine the undertones in whatever colors you use. Do they tend toward yellows or pinks or greens or greys? When in doubt, match your colors to a paint chip and ask at the paint store what the undertones are. They have the formula and know the pigments that make up the color, so they can identify the undertones for you. They'll do this even if you are not buying paint.<br /><br />One goof-proof way to mix patterns is to buy fabrics bundled by a professional decorator. Bed-in-a-bag is an example. Retail outlets and manufacturers deliberately coordinate things like table linens, bath towels, and kitchen textiles to make it easy for you and to sell you more of their stuff. Buy their sets or just imitate the catalog and store displays.<br /><br />Another way to be sure your patterns talk to each other and don't take over the room is to base your patterns on a single color. For example, I'm picturing a room with creamy draperies edged in pale yellow, yellow floral and chevron stripped pillows, and a yellow gingham upholstered chair.   <br /><br />One of my Pinterest Boards shows <a href="http://pinterest.com/barbarapilcher/colors-for-a-staged-home/" target="_blank">color schemes appropriate for a staged home</a>. Visit there for inspiration and ideas when you're choosing colors.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/hgtvbedrm_zps18b29c25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/hgtvbedrm_zps18b29c25.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Repetition holds this assortment of fabric patterns together. We see a rich red and <br />a faded red. The chain motif trimming the pillows repeats the curves of the <br />paisley pillows. The polka dot pillow imitates the tufted chenille bedspread.<br />And the gold in the pillows repeats the gold of the brass bed.  Photo: BHG.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pillows_zps15bffb91.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pillows_zps15bffb91.jpg" width="556" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A charming, contemporary toile in teal and a mandala-like design <br />in orange compliment each other beautifully. These draperies don't strike me <br />as too matchy at all!  Photo: Woman's Day.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livingrm_zpsb82999f5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livingrm_zpsb82999f5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">You can't go wrong with the classic combo of floral (carpeting), plaid or check (chairs) <br />and a stripe (draperies). Photo: Myhomeideas.com, by Erica Georges Dines.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Scale is All About Size, Style, and Placement</span></b><br /><br />Mix large patterns with small patterns and something in between. This kind of mixing creates a finished, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/five-simple-ways-to-add-style-to-your.html" target="_blank">stylish</a>, interesting look. Mix angular geometrics with curvy florals. Mix ombre, ikat, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/ten-ways-to-rock-global-look.html" target="_blank">ethnic,</a> and batik prints and with crisp modern designs. These kinds of juxtapositions delight the eye and bring a room to life. <br /><br />Spread your patterned pieces around the room, as well. If all your patterns are on <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/easy-way-to-make-your-own-decorator.html" target="_blank">pillows</a> clustered on one couch and the rest of the room is showing solid colors, there's an imbalance. Pattern placement keeps the eye moving, and that's what you want. <br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/blogMixingprints_zps522efcd7.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/blogMixingprints_zps522efcd7.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A lovely collection of subdued blues. The bedspread is <br /> a <a href="http://apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-make-a-b-138526" target="_blank">block print using a rubber welcome mat</a>.  Photo: Leah Moss</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Carry swatches of fabric and paint chips with you when you are staging your home. The mind does not remember colors the way it does numbers and facts. Fabrics really need to be seen in 3-D next to each other for you to judge their likeability.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Restraint Rules the Day</span></b><br /><br />Limit your pattern selections and color choices to three. Sounds boring? Sure. Looks boring? Not necessarily! An uncluttered home looks <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/02/how-to-make-your-home-look-new.html" target="_blank">new</a> and clean.<br /><br />Remember that you can repeat the patterns in more than one place. A striped panel in the draperies can be repeated on a tablerunner. That's not matchy-matchy. That's just cross pollination.<br /><br />One strategy to make a room look more intentionally designed than thrown together is to use similar or identical trims on upholstered pieces, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/listen-up-its-easy-to-make-no-sew.html" target="_blank">window treatments</a>, lamp shades, pillows, and other accessories. Your trim could be something like white cording, a fuzzy fringe, colorful rick rack, gold braiding or patterned ribbon.   <br /><br />Tone down the size of bold contrast patterns. This one trick will help keep your rooms looking comfortable and tasteful. If you're staging a really large room, you'll need some large textile designs, but they can be composed of subtle color variations.<br /><br />So, don't be afraid of printed textiles. They can help you sell your house! There's plenty of solid color in most rooms to balance a selection of prints and patterns. Just jump in, and follow my guidelines for mixing and matching prints for home staging.<br /><br />If you want more tips to stage your own home, be sure to order my $5 <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook,</a> <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar.</i> It will teach you to stage like a pro!<br /><br />

How to Make Patterns Work for Your Home Staging

Pattern mixing 101: Keep it simple. This place setting is just squiggles and stripes, done in members of the blue family Every staged home ...

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