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...

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A Simple Way to Make Any Room More Inviting

<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-P1050245_zps54ef5beb.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-P1050245_zps54ef5beb.jpg" width="402" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Are elephants warm and fuzzy? In a certain way, yes!</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: right;"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Friendly.<br /><br />Lovable.<br /><br />Approachable.<br /><br />These are qualities that attract us to other people. So, it’s no surprise that the same qualities make a house attractive to home buyers. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">One of the best ways I know to make a room friendlier is to add reminders of nature.<br /><br />Here are three ways to do just that:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/thrifty-decor-how-to-give-rooms-fresh.html" target="_blank">Plants</a>, real or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/seven-secrets-to-making-silk-plants-and.html" target="_blank">silk</a>.</li><li>A window with a garden view.</li><li>Natural <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/02/lighting-secrets-to-help-sell-your-home_4.html" target="_blank">lighting</a>. </li></ul></div><div class="MsoNormal">And there’s another way to use nature to breathe life into a room: Animals, but not your house pets!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Here are some prime examples of how animal décor can make your home more interesting and lovable.</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-foxpictureselledecor_zps2e86fbce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="544" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-foxpictureselledecor_zps2e86fbce.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This sparsely furnished bedroom is the perfect setting for <br />some framed prints of English hunting scenes. Via Elle Decor</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-horsepicmidwestliving_zpsa2bf2b01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="534" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-horsepicmidwestliving_zpsa2bf2b01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I'm partial to oil paintings of horses at rest. This traditionally designed living room<br />gets an extra shot of class from the painting. Midwest Magazine.</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-birdphoptotodhuntertraditionalhome_zpseebc8052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-birdphoptotodhuntertraditionalhome_zpseebc8052.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Audubon bird prints have their place, but a contemporary photo<br />of a bird makes for handsome framed art as well. Tod Hunter, Traditional Home</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-RabbitpictureBehr_zps7542421e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="466" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-RabbitpictureBehr_zps7542421e.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">DIY art using animal graphics is easy to do, and can fill <br />wall space in a budget-staged home. Behr paints.</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-elephantviaorangebeautiful_zps21e46984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-elephantviaorangebeautiful_zps21e46984.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">An elephant side table is timeless and crosses all decor styles. They come in all sizes <br />and designs. I especially like this glossy white one. Orange 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/1-foodogshadesoflight_zps2485bdfc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-foodogshadesoflight_zps2485bdfc.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Another classic is foo dog ceramic ware.  Feng Shui teaches that foo dogs offer<br />protection. This one stands guard  and lights the way. Shades of Light.</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-frogvase_zps6531a45f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-frogvase_zps6531a45f.jpg" width="389" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Who could resist smiling at these three hugging frogs? Accessories<br />like this can help stage <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/06/stage-your-home-with-books-heres-how.html" target="_blank">bookcases</a> and <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/10/ins-and-outs-of-staging-fireplace-mantel.html" target="_blank">mantels</a> with a sense of humor. </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-monkeybookendsapttherapy_zps0b2ac0a5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-monkeybookendsapttherapy_zps0b2ac0a5.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Jungle animals and animals that people feel a special kinship with are especially<br />good allies for staging your home. Example: Monkey bookends. Apartment Therapy.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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-Blog-animalprints_zpsa2735372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-Blog-animalprints_zpsa2735372.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Almost any style of animal imaging -- if it's original -- works for home staging. </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">Aren't t</span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">hese </span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">abstract cat pillows from Laurel Burch charming?    </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-AnimalprintLonnyMagazine_zps0a2ffc5c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-AnimalprintLonnyMagazine_zps0a2ffc5c.jpg" width="508" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Perhaps the most popular animal prints are the leopard (above) and the zebra stripe. <br />One animal print per room is the usual rule, but you can make your own rules! </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-birdcurtainspotterybarn_zps6aa90fbe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="359" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-birdcurtainspotterybarn_zps6aa90fbe.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">These Pottery Barn drapery panels feature gorgeous bird designs, <br />always an attractive motif for home decor.  </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-furchairnester_zps5cbb4bec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="444" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-furchairnester_zps5cbb4bec.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Nester blogged about how she made this <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2011/03/fur-chair-no-sew-reupholstery.html" target="_blank">no-sew, faux fur-covered chair.</a><br />I think it's fabulous. It's fake, but it looks like mink -- so Hollywood!</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-P1050214_zpsbeb18cfd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050214_zpsbeb18cfd.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Don't forget your outdoor spaces. This fish fountain sits on my back porch. </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">It was easy to </span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">make, and adds a soothing sound to the backyard. .  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">While researching images for this post, I stumbled on some unwise choices, like glowing turtle lamps, owl placemats, and neon flamingos. So, beware the kitchy, overused, animal accents, and instead look for either lovable or exotic motifs. Stay away from less likable animals like snakes.<br /><br />No unicorns, please. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Pigs and chickens are iffy. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Out of doors, be on guard against <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/07/make-your-home-gnome-free-zone.html" target="_blank">“slob art.”</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">One more caveat: don’t use real fur. If it’s fabric you’re after, velvet animal prints and faux furs are what you want. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Sometimes staged rooms become too sterile. Using wildlife images and imitations can give rooms some animal magnetism and whimsy if you do it with <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/five-simple-ways-to-add-style-to-your.html" target="_blank">style</a>.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you need more inspiration and advice on staging your home so you can sell it, 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 and for Top Dollar</i>. Let me be your guide while you get your home ready for market.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/photowtextanimals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/photowtextanimals.jpg" width="402" /></a></div><br /></div>

A Simple Way to Make Any Room More Inviting

Are elephants warm and fuzzy? In a certain way, yes! Friendly. Lovable. Approachable. These are qualities that attract us to other people. S...

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Lighting Secrets to Help Sell Your Home

<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFnRP1xiAG1G_00rwUh0BwuZdmdnOIM9ikXgmAq9zoexhkOjaN9YOAQpZWTs4inkqrywGktzbqDtBbfQWwTXyT1JaOUmK0IZieI48nuoNFjvW2MJr3S4eYTWcs0qDPLZcOzmk-Rm7BVc/s640/cococozy+guest+bedroom+napa+showhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFnRP1xiAG1G_00rwUh0BwuZdmdnOIM9ikXgmAq9zoexhkOjaN9YOAQpZWTs4inkqrywGktzbqDtBbfQWwTXyT1JaOUmK0IZieI48nuoNFjvW2MJr3S4eYTWcs0qDPLZcOzmk-Rm7BVc/s640/cococozy+guest+bedroom+napa+showhouse.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Wide, white lampshade, check!<br /> Pale walls, check!  Big lamp, check!  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="Style-1CxSpFirst">When your home is for sale, the more light your rooms get, the bigger and cleaner it feels to people touring it. <span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpLast">Here are some tips to use indoor lighting and natural that gets those results.  <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Up the Wattage</b></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText">Kinda obvious, but often overlooked: Make sure all your fixtures and lamps have all bulbs in the correct wattage. </div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText">The emphasis is on “all bulbs.” How many of us have replaced a bulb in a multi-bulb fixture with whatever we had on hand. Or neglected to notice that, in fact, one bulb was burned out. Double check all your lights. <br /><br />Replace those boob, ceiling light fixtures with something big and bold and reflective. Don't be shy about installing a chandelier style. </div><div class="Style-1CxSpFirst"><br />When it comes to task lighting, you may personally like the moody look of subdued illumination, and cozy pools of light spaced around a room. But this is the kind of lighting that makes a room look small and cramped. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">Whether you or your realtor shows your property, it’s sometimes awkward to circle the room and turn on all the task and accent lights. That’s why it’s important that general, overhead lighting be sufficient.  <o:p></o:p><br /><br />Other tricks for boosting the brightness: double up on lamps. Yes, I mean pairs of lamps in close proximity. Or, place a large mirror on the wall behind a table or desk that sports a lamp.<br /><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Best Table Lamps</b></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">If you are absent  before a showing, you can’t count on your realtor to arrive at your house before her clients do, and turn on all lamps.<span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">In one property I had on the market, I put timers on a couple of table lamps, just to make sure that darker room were always well-lighted when I was away.<br /><br />To me, the cost of electricity was worth it.No one said it wouldn’t cost any money to sell a house.    <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText">Most home stagers prefer white lampshades, and for good reason.Darker lampshades will absorb light so that you’re not getting all the wattage you want. </div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br />Also, ditch the ditzy table lamps. They take up too much tabletop real estate for the little bit of charm they bring to a space. </div><div class="Style-1CxSpFirst"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpFirst"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Best Floor Lamps</span></b></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>When choosing a floor lamp, look for lamps that provide ample light and take up little floor space.A floor lamp that bounces light off the ceiling will go a long way towards increasing the size of the room. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">An extension cord snaking across the floor to a lamp is a red flag to home buyers. It gives the impression that there’s a problem with the home’s wiring, even if there isn’t. Try to arrange lamps so the cord isn’t visible.  <o:p></o:p></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">Uplights, Downlights</span></b><br /><br />One clever way to add some drama to a room is with hidden lights that wash a wall with light. Make sure your walls are blemish-free and expertly painted when you aim a light at them at a sharp angle.</div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText">Darks corners in a room are no friend to the spacious look you want. Solve the problem with low wattage uplights that can be left on. Or place in the corner a table with a large table lamp. Wall sconces are another possibility. Some are battery operated so there's no cord dangling below if they aren't hard-wired.   </div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText">An unseen light behind a sofa or under kitchen cabinets give a room a certain glow. Lighting like this can often create a focal point or emphasize one such as a fireplace or some built-in cabinetry.<br /></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Proving the Rule</span></b><br /><div class="MsoBodyText">Every rule has an exception.  If your home is large, make one of your rooms stand out as a dimly lighted retreat. It could be a romantic bedroom, a media room, a man cave, or a library. It shouldn’t be a kitchen, bath, closet, hallway, or children’s room. </div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText">This approach could solve the problem of a room that is already dark because it’s on the north side of the home, has poor natural lighting, or is so small that you’re not going to fool anyone into thinking it’s large.<br /></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Daylight Rocks</span></b><br /><div class="MsoBodyText"><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://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/2007/04/550_100024384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/2007/04/550_100024384.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">What a cool way to hide a less-than-perfect view, but still <br />let in the light.  And there's always room for a creative lighting solution <br />like this sunny pendant fixture. Photo: Meredith </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Are your rooms getting enough sunlight? Even if your windows are small – especially if your windows are small – there are ways to increase the amount of perceived light entering the room. </div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText">Keep window treatments away from the actual framed window opening. My <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/01/no-sew-window-treatments-why-stitch.html" target="_blank">window treatments ebook </a>shows you how to make 15 different styles of no-sew curtains and draperies especially designed for home staging.     </div><div class="MsoBodyText"><br /></div><div class="MsoBodyText">Also, remove or prune outdoor shrubbery that blocks light entering through windows. Watch the way sunlight moves across a room over the course of a day, and observe what’s shading the room. It could be the lower branches of a tree that’s overgrown or too close to the house. People like open views.  </div><div class="Style-1CxSpFirst"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpFirst">Work with your realtor to encourage her to show your home when it looks best. Perhaps the morning sun floods your kitchen, but leaves bedrooms dim. Since many people don’t care about bright morning sun in bedrooms, mornings would be the best time to show the property. Dark and rainy days are not ideal for showings. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">Of course, it’s not always possible to control the schedule, but it’s worth mentioning to your realtor.  <o:p></o:p></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Brighten Ceiling and Walls</span></b></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><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://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/08/17/e08b9573c960.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/08/17/e08b9573c960.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">You can't beat a white ceiling for bringing a room to life. Don't listen to people <br />telling you that the wall color on the ceiling will heighten a room. <br />Light reflection matters more.  Designer: Nate Berkus for Katie Lee.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>I’ve given many ceilings a coat of fresh paint, and the client is always amazed at the difference one coat of bright white paint makes. Over time a ceiling can take on a dull grey or brown tone from dust, pollen, aging paint, nicotine or cooking oils in the air. <span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">Paint sold as “ceiling white paint” is especially designed to be reflective because it’s a pure, bright white. It doesn’t have the durability or washablilty of wall and trim paints, so it’s usually less expensive.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">If you think your ceiling can benefit from some brightening (most can) it’s not that difficult to paint a ceiling if you do half a room at a time. Remove the small furniture to another room. Scoot all the big stuff to one side of the room, and cover the floor. Then, working on a step ladder, use a brush to cut in around the edge of the ceiling, and roll the reminder from the floor, using a roller screwed onto a long handle (like a mop handle).<o:p></o:p></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">Make your walls feel clean and bright with wall colors that reflect rather than soak up light. Muddy colors with dark undertones will close in the walls of a room more than clear, pale colors. Use a flat finish rather than a finish with sheen. Flat finish tends to blur the boundaries of the room, making it feel larger.   <span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">    <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><h3><b><span style="font-size: large;">Light Your Way to a Purchase Offer</span></b></h3></div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle">“Plenty of light” is high on the wish list of most buyers. Even if you don’t have an abundance of natural light, you can still go a long way towards pleasing buyers by putting to work my tricks to create the sense of light-filled spaces in your home.</div><div class="Style-1CxSpMiddle"><br /></div><div class="Style-1CxSpLast">Want more tips and encouragement to help you sell your home? That’s what you get when you have my handy <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’s just $5 and is an instantly downloadable pdf. You can start today to make your home the one that real estate buyers want.  <o:p></o:p></div><div class="Style-1CxSpLast"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div><div class="Style-1CxSpLast"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Top photo: Room design by Melanie Coddington, via Cococozy.</i></span></div>

Lighting Secrets to Help Sell Your Home

Wide, white lampshade, check!  Pale walls, check!  Big lamp, check!   When your home is for sale, the more light your rooms get, the bigger ...

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Home Improvements That Deliver The Most Bang for Your Buck

<a href="http://img4-2.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2011/07/white-cottage-kitchen/white-neutral-cottage-kitchen-l.jpg?400:400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4-2.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2011/07/white-cottage-kitchen/white-neutral-cottage-kitchen-l.jpg?400:400" width="400" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #414141;">Fixing up your home can make your property more appealing to buyers. It can also reduce the time your home stays on the market. And fix-ups can get you a better selling price. </span><br /><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #414141;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #414141;">But, there’s another side to home improvement projects. </span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #414141;">Some fixes actually waste the money you've spent on them when it’s time to sell. Some so-called upgrades may even make it more difficult for you to find a buyer.  <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #414141;">Let’s distinguish the loser projects from the winning projects. Since my blog is about home staging, this is not the time and place to recommend major kitchen and bath remodels. I think we all know that kitchen and bath upgrades, done right, have the sweetest return on investment. </span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #414141;">Let's focus on the more frugal, simple makeovers that add value to your property at selling time. It makes more sense to redecorate, update, and stage, than it does to remodel. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Kitchens</span></b></span></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://img4-3.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2009/03/idea-house-kitchens/kousa-creek-l.jpg?400:400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4-3.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2009/03/idea-house-kitchens/kousa-creek-l.jpg?400:400" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Glass doors and crown molding give<br /> these cabinets their custom look. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>A kitchen dates a home faster than any other room, because kitchens follow decor and color trends. Yet, buyers have strong priorities when it comes to kitchens.<br /><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;">A major kitchen remodel (think big bucks) returns about 85 to 90% of your investment. <br /><br />If you’re selling your home soon, any of these quicker alternatives to the complete <span style="background-color: white;">makeover are more likely to pay for themselves.</span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><ul><li><span style="background-color: white;">Repainted white cabinets and new hardware, because white and grey are in style.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;">Ceramic tile backsplash, for an oh-so-current look.</span><span style="background-color: white;">S</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;">Solid surface countertop with that undermounted sink everyone loves.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;">New </span><a href="http://www.efaucets.com/?siteID=4Mqa.w8eC4k-IfdIMB_hn5ih9GNXUYOrsg" target="_blank">faucet </a><span style="background-color: white;">that calls attention to itself.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;">Under-cabinet lighting that comes at all price points.</span><span style="background-color: white;">Updated appliances (psst…they don’t have to be top of the line to still earn you additional points on an appraiser’s form, and to impress buyers).</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;">Space-saving organizers like pull-out shelving.</span></li></ul></div><span style="background-color: white;">Remember that even a state-of-the-art, glamorous kitchen loses impact if your gutters are leaking, your heating system is antiquated, your roof is missing shingles, your updated wiring consists of yet another extension cord, and your toilets rock (not in a good way).</span><br /><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Bathrooms</b></span></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://img4-2.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2011/08/powder-rooms/powder-room-mirrored-vanity-l.jpg?400:400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4-2.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2011/08/powder-rooms/powder-room-mirrored-vanity-l.jpg?400:400" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Light and bright goes a long way. Mirrors, <br />lamps and pale colors work wonders. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="gsubhead" style="background: white; line-height: 12.75pt; margin: 0in;">You can get all crazy, bust through some walls, re-plumb the room, yank the standard tub and replace it with a steam shower or spa tub, install heated ceramic flooring, and upgrade the vanity to the latest style topped with granite, but unless your home is high end to begin with, these upgrades may not pay for themselves at the closing table. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="gsubhead" style="background: white; line-height: 12.75pt; margin: 0in;"><br />Instead, give your bathroom added value by making it look new without changing the floorplan. Toilets, sinks, faucets, vanities, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/01/no-sew-window-treatments-why-stitch.html" target="_blank">window treatments</a>, paint, and mirrors are not that expensive.</div><div class="gsubhead" style="background: white; line-height: 12.75pt; margin: 0in;"><br />Study the look of luxury baths and imitate them with your accessories and color schemes.<br /><br />Scrub your tub until it shines, no matter what color it is. Clear off the surfaces. Introduce a light scent. Paint with a space-expanding hue. Invest in beautiful towels. Update the hardware.  <o:p></o:p></div><div class="gsubhead" style="background: white; line-height: 12.75pt; margin: 0in;"></div><div class="gsubhead" style="background: white; line-height: 12.75pt; margin: 0in;">The cost of a totally remodelled bath can return itself about 93%. But cosmetic changes can have a big impact on perceived value, so go for a refreshed look on a shoestring!<o:p></o:p></div><div style="background: white; line-height: 12.1pt; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Outside Upgrades</b></span></span><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://img4-1.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2004/09/freshen-front-door/main-m.jpg?300:300" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4-1.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2004/09/freshen-front-door/main-m.jpg?300:300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Front <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/girls-guide-to-painting-your-front-door.html" target="_blank">entrance makeovers</a> don't have to bust the budget. <br />Sometimes, paint and <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/04/how-container-plantings-can-help-you.html" target="_blank">plants </a>are all it takes.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;">How your home’s exterior looks will affect its fair market value. Make your home look inviting with an appealing exterior.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Maybe the budget won’t allow new cement board siding or a total repaint (although painting an exterior can increase a home’s value by more than what it costs), but you can hose it down or pressure-wash it.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are some other thrifty alternatives that will help make your house show well.<span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br /><ul><li><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Replace or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/girls-guide-to-painting-your-front-door.html" target="_blank">paint the front door </a>so it looks new. Make the door match and enhance the style of your home.</span></span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Paint just the trim of your home – what’s around the windows and doors, the corner boards, the fascia and soffit under the eves. New paint in these places brings a home to life.</span></span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Clean up the landscape. Drive the best neighborhoods in your area, and study what the professional landscapers have done there. Copy the look with the funds you have available. If nothing else, declutter and mulch, especially in the area in front of your home.</span></span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal;">Money spent on a new deck, patio, or porch, will give a good return. Exterior remodeling projects like this are better candidates for homeowner projects than interior remodeling projects. Can you do it yourself? Exterior add-ons of outdoor living spaces, carefully done, have the illusion and even the function of added square footage.</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Make sure exterior hardware looks cared for. Are exterior lights operating? Do they need replacing or painting? How’s the doorknob, hinges and other hardware around the front door? Check handrails and even the mailbox to see if they want fresh paint. </span></span></li></ul><br /><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: large;">Spending Is Easy, Recouping Isn’t</span></b><br /><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><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://img4-3.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2011/04/outdoor-rooms/arbor-patio-floor-l.jpg?400:400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4-3.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2011/04/outdoor-rooms/arbor-patio-floor-l.jpg?400:400" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Some lumber and some brick are all it took<br />to increase the living space of this home.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #333333;">The hard facts are that with most home remodels, you never get your money back instantly. It’s only when you plan to stay in your home awhile, and you get to enjoy the improvements, that you reap rewards. And these rewards may not be financial, but the satisfaction of living in a home you love. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="color: #333333;">Factor into your decisions about how to spend fix-up costs, the statistic that most Americans stay in their homes an average of only seven years, and that even though you plan to stay longer, you might not. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="color: #333333;">One statistic stands out: that cleaning, decluttering and home staging give you unbelievable returns! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="color: #333333;">A survey of 600 national real estate professionals shows that cleaning and decluttering can yield returns worth over 500% actual cost. I’m guessing the figure is that high because elbow grease is free. And because these actions have a huge visual impact.  <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="color: #333333;">These same realtors rated professional home staging returning almost 300% of the cost. In this case, I am guessing that home staging you do yourself will return even better numbers. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="color: #333333;">The other investments realtors rate as valuable are lightening and brightening, which returns over 300%, and landscaping, which returns over 250%, and electric and plumbing  repairs, which return about 180%.    <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;"><span style="color: #414141;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">If you are a homeowner</span></b>, chances are you’ll sell your home someday. Meanwhile, spending money to improve your home can be tricky. </span>If you are going to go crazy with spending, the place to do it is with the basic systems (plumbing, electrical, structural, roofing, painting, HVAC), and with cleaning, decluttering, and thrifty home staging. </div><div style="background: white; margin: 0.25in 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.45pt;">In 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>, I describe how to give buyers the features they want, even if you don't have the latest, greatest version of these features. Downloading your copy is quick and easy, and you'll get over 150 illustrated pages of how-tos, techniques, projects, advice and encouragement.<br /><br /><i>All Photos: Southern Living </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #1a4570; font-family: Georgia;"> </span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1a4570; font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span style="color: #1a4570; font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span></div>

Home Improvements That Deliver The Most Bang for Your Buck

Fixing up your home can make your property more appealing to buyers. It can also reduce the time your home stays on the market. And fix-ups ...

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The Trends That Can Update Your Home

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></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://img4.myhomeideas.com/i/2009/10/57925-great-graphics-r-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4.myhomeideas.com/i/2009/10/57925-great-graphics-r-l.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>A shapely lamp is trendy. Coastal Living.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Unless you are a builder, chances are your home for sale is not a new home.<br /><br />But it will be a "new home" to whoever buys it. So, the more successful you are at creating the illusion of newness, the more attractive it looks and feels to house hunters. <br /><br />Even an historic home, or a home furnished mostly with antiques benefits from a touch of something that is The Latest.<br /><br />Your show of trendiness could be simply your wall color, a hall runner, a floral arrangement, or just the kitchen utensils on display.<br /><br />Here are some of the trends that can bring your home up to date.  <br /><ul><li>Colors lilac, sage, pewter, taupe</li><li>The white kitchen</li><li>Painted furniture</li><li>Mix of different styles  </li><li>Floral arrangements of just one kind of flower</li><li>Curvaceous, shiny, table lamps, and drum lampshades  </li></ul><br /><table 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://img4.myhomeideas.com/i/2009/12/61350-sweet-suite-r-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://img4.myhomeideas.com/i/2009/12/61350-sweet-suite-r-l.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Taupe and sage and greige are the new beige. Tria Giovan.</i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><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://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2009/09/28/2514eee22a87.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2009/09/28/2514eee22a87.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Lilac walls -- they not just for old ladies anymore. Cismiccowgirl. </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://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/07/28/55bcc3413420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/07/28/55bcc3413420.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Look for novel ways to incorporate greys into your decor. Benjamin Moore. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Buyers are looking for a place to start fresh, whether it's a conscious decision or not. Make your home look new by adding some elements that are very up to date. Add a trendy thing or two, or three or four ...   <br /><br />Pick up more advice to help sell your home by ordering 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 promise it will help you sell your home, or I will give you your money back.<br /><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://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/ms_living/2003Q3//ml_0803_hydrangeas_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/ms_living/2003Q3//ml_0803_hydrangeas_xl.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Don't think you need fancy floral combinations. A single choice is classy.  Martha Stewart</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://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/09/11/a6c09aa1ddba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/09/11/a6c09aa1ddba.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Updating a kitchen with white paint is one way to look current.Tobi Fairly via DecorPad. </i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></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://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/09/20/t_ede0eea49b1f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/09/20/t_ede0eea49b1f.jpg" width="381" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The drum lampshade has been gone long enough for a comeback. Nina Jizhar</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://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/08/17/a3ceac8425d8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/08/17/a3ceac8425d8.png" width="424" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Chairs, tables, bookcases, mirrors, almost everything can be painted. Nate Berkus. </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://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/08/17/a90b306ca454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2011/08/17/a90b306ca454.jpg" width="468" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Mix ornate with contemporary with global. It's all good. Benjamin Moore.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Do you have touches of current trends in your home? Look for some small (or large!) ways to add that look of newness, so buyers will get the message that your home on the market is not stuck in musty, dusty time warp. Instead, it's current, fresh, and loved. That's the message that trends convey.   

The Trends That Can Update Your Home

A shapely lamp is trendy. Coastal Living. Unless you are a builder, chances are your home for sale is not a new home. But it will be a ...

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Salvation Army Chic: My Two "New" Table Lamps

<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/IMG_9351.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/IMG_9351.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>These lamps are now handsome staging props. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>As soon as I saw them I wanted them. They were on a top shelf, too high for a 5'3" person to notice their marble bases. But even without going on tip-toes, I could read their fluorescent price stickers: $2.89 each. Then, when I hefted one, I was sold.<br /><br />I mean, two matching lamps, with classic profiles, no missing parts, that weighed in at about five pounds apiece? I'd be crazy to not give them a home.<br /><br />Today they are even more beautiful. Don't you love a Cinderella story?<br /><br />Here's my step-by-step.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Clean it.</b></span> I usually disinfect anything I buy second hand.<br /><br />I have a friend who loves to buy vintage clothing, and she zip-bags and freezes for a week whatever she brings home.<br /><br />I do a bleach wipe-down or dip, but since these lamps are getting spray-painted, I just cleaned them with my favorite Mrs. Meyers countertop spray -- lemon verbena --to get any residual dirt off. If you suspect grease or wax, clean with a degreaser or other solvent.<br /><br />Now is the time to do any repairs to your project. I made sure the lamp parts were attached tightly by taking a screwdriver to the screw at the base.  <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Sand it.</b></span> Going over any surface with sand paper before painting is a good habit to cultivate, whether it's painted drywall, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/02/how-to-faux-finish-plastic-flower-pot.html">plastic flower pots</a>, old dressers, or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/girls-guide-to-painting-your-front-door.html">metal doors</a>. My preference is a <a href="http://www.sherwin-williams.com/do_it_yourself/products/3m_sanding_sponges_12_pk/?referringCategory=tools_supplies/sand_paper_abrasives/sanding_sponges/">sanding sponge</a> that fits into my hand, and easily gets into curves and crannies.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Dust it.</b></span> After sanding, you'll want to get rid of all the loose stuff that's left behind. Otherwise, it ends up in your pretty painted surface. The best tool is a <a href="http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-tack-cloth.htm">tack cloth</a>, but a microfiber cloth works well, too. Notice that I suggest you dust an item <i>before</i> you place it on your actual work surface.<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/Before-1.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/Before-1.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>What they looked like when I brought them home.</i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Prep the area.</b></span> You want a dust-free drop cloth or some other clean, level surface where you can safely place your item.<br /><br />Consider your surroundings. If you are outside and it's windy, you might want to wait for another day. Not only will a breeze blow away more paint, it could send junk into your wet paint.<br /><br />If it's too hot, like above 90 degrees, choose another time. Your paint begins drying even before it lands, and you end up with a powdery surface and poor adhesion. You want a dry day, not a humid one which interferes with drying time and can give you a mottled, cloudy finish. Ideal conditions are between 50 and 80 degrees and less than 50% humidity.<br /><br />It's best to check your label to be sure, and if your garden wind sock is horizontal and your curly hair is all kinked up, don't spray.<br /><br />If you put down paper or a drop cloth, weight the corners so they won't blow up and ruin your work.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tape Off.</b></span> Use masking tape to snugly wrap the areas you don't want painted. I removed finials to paint them separately, so I covered the screws that will hold them in place. I also removed the knobs to turn the lamps on and off, and taped up the screws that will hold those knobs. I taped over the marble bases, and stuffed plastic into the bulb socket.<br /><br />Prepping for painting is the time-consuming part of any paint project. But this tedious stuff is what makes a difference in the quality of your finished project.     <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Prep yourself.</b></span> Wear old clothes, especially the shoes if you are painting on a low surface like the floor or ground. Wear a respirator if you are indoors. Wear a respirator if you are pregnant. I'm not talking about a paper face mask for particulates in the air. You need a <a href="http://www.google.com/products/catalog?q=respirator+for+painting&hl=en&client=gmail&rls=gm&prmd=ivns&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&biw=1015&bih=579&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=4564401858801387834&sa=X&ei=UHEsTvrbMNHOgAeLv8SVCw&ved=0CJgBEPMCMAM">face respirator</a> if you can't work in a well ventilated area .<br /><br />I also like to wear gloves because spray paint doesn't easily come out from under my trigger fingernail.<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/IMG_9276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9276.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>A toothbrush cleans in the grooves.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Spray away! </b></span>Shake very well. Use slowly sweeping motions, not a rapid back and forth. Two or three light coats are better than one heavy coat. Avoid getting too close and creating drips and runs in the paint.<br /><br />Although this should be listed as step one, use <a href="http://www.krylon.com/products/">good spray paints</a>. Shun the cheap brands, which contain less paint per can, and spray unevenly. The tip on a good spray paint can will spray without splattering and not clog as easily.<br /><br />You can also tell a good spray tip from a poor one by the shape of the spray pattern it throws out. Cheap tips spray a circle of paint, which doesn't help put down an even pattern of paint. Better tips spray in a fan shape, giving you better control of the paint, and minimizing goofs, thin spots, and runs.     <br /><br />Double check your item from all vantage points before you finish spraying. Turn the can upside down for the final pass, to clear the tip.<br /><br />If your project piece has areas that are difficult to reach, such as inside the legs of a chair or the edges of a frame, or what sculptors call "undercuts," start your spraying by doing these areas first. Usually, I turn these kinds of things upside down to begin the spray job. Then, I flip the piece over to finish spraying. Placing pushpins or other elevating devices on the bottoms of legs keeps them from sticking to your drop cloth.<br /><br />When you are finished, store your spray paints where they won't freeze.<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/sprayatest1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/sprayatest1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The fan-shape spray pattern (yellow) gives better results than the circular pattern (purple). </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table 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/IMG_9280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9280.jpg" width="197" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Paint sticks better to a sanded surface.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table 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/IMG_9289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9289.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>It's best to  cover electric connections before you paint. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><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/IMG_9291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9291.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I like to wrap the electric cords in plastic bags rather than cover them with tape. </i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><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/IMG_9292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="336" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9292.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I put the finials on skewers to elevate them while spraying. </i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><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/IMG_9334-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="359" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9334-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The lamps after painting. I sanded the high spots on the left one, and the right one is next. </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/IMG_9340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9340.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>To further "antique" the lamp, </i></span><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I brushed on a thin wash of brown craft paint. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i></i></span></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/IMG_9346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9346.jpg" width="358" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Before the brown wash dried, I rubbed most of it off. </i></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Then I removed the tape, and gave them light bulbs and new shades. </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/IMG_9378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_9378.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I love the look of my new vintage-style table lamps.</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/pricesticker.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pricesticker.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I am going to pretend that my upcycled lamps </i></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i>are worth $289 now, instead of the $2.89 I paid. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>If you are staging your home, I can help you make smart decisions, so you get more people looking at your home, a faster sale, and a better selling price. If your home is on the market, it is staged already. Do it right! My <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">home staging ebook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar, </i>tells you how.<i> </i><br /><i>  </i><br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.handymancraftywoman.com/"><img border="0" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/lars72/733blog%20design%20images/WAW_BUTTON.png" /></a></center><a href="http://southernhospitalityblog.com/"><img alt="southern hospitality" height="125" src="http://southernhospitalityblog.com/wp-content/themes/thesis_17/custom/images/shbutton.png" width="125" /></a> <br /><center><a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=4Mqa*w8eC4k&offerid=242243.9&type=4&subid=0"><img alt="Ceiling Light Banner" border="0" src="http://www.bowerylights.com/linkshare/bannerad1.png" /></a><img alt="banner" border="0" height="1" src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=4Mqa*w8eC4k&bids=242243.9&type=4&subid=0" width="1" /></center>

Salvation Army Chic: My Two "New" Table Lamps

These lamps are now handsome staging props. As soon as I saw them I wanted them. They were on a top shelf, too high for a 5'3" pers...

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