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...

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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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How Not to Photograph Your Home

<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-bloghouseinsnow_zps42193d86.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/1-bloghouseinsnow_zps42193d86.jpg" width="394" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">It's spring.  Does your home's profile photo <br />still show bare trees and snow on the roof?  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When people shop for a home, they usually begin their search online, either on their own or with a realtor. If your web photos don’t do your home justice, you could be out of the running before buyers even check out your <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/10/guest-post-going-beyond-curb-appeal-to.html" target="_blank">curb appeal </a>with a drive-by. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have you looked at your web listing? <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You’ve worked hard to get your home in good shape, organized, cleaned, and staged. Do the photos capture all the major selling points of your home, or do they skip some of its best features? Do they show your home in the best way, or are there some slip-ups? <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here’s a checklist of what can go wrong when your home is photographed.</span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Out-of-season picture.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> Although you may prefer the colors in your autumn profile photo, it’s springtime now. The message an off-season shot gives buyers is that the home has been on the market a long time. Buyers assume there must be something wrong with it. If your realtor won't take a new photo, perhaps you have or can take an image of your own that is current or season-less. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Duplicate shots.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> This is a common mistake and I don’t know why. A listing will include three photos of the kitchen, or four photos of the backyard. Hello? Buyers don’t have to see a room from multiple angles. Choose the photo that flatters the room the most. Your photos should be complete, yet tease buyers to come and see more. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></strong></div><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://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/05/101483563.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/05/101483563.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Notice how the photographer shot this kitchen from the <br />height of the counters. This means you can see both<br />the floor and the ceiling. Photo: BHG</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Missing rooms.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> Buyers want an overview. Give them a room-by-room sampling as best you can. Omitted rooms are a red flag to buyers. Some realtors have to pay extra for extra photos, so if you are forced to choose, choose the important rooms: kitchen, living room, dining room, baths and master bedroom.  Always include an exterior picture.</span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Flash.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>If a professional photographer takes your photos, he’ll have the camera to do the job with natural light, in-home lighting, or lights he brings to the job. If you or your realtor take photos, turn the flash off. A flash illuminates only a few feet in front of the camera, and it leaves harsh shadows. The flash is not your friend. If you are working with a point-and-shoot camera, you might need to do some simple photo editing to help the pictures along after uploading them. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wrong angle.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> Good lighting and the proper angle are the two most significant ways to make your home photos look better. Inside, the most common mistake amateurs make is to shoot from too high a level. Crouch down to get a more interesting view. Outside, move around your home’s front and shoot multiple times. Shoot high and shoot low. Shoot from the left side of the house and from the right, even at different times of the day, and then choose the picture that makes your home look the best.<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><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/1-P1020691_zpsbdfdc49e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020691_zpsbdfdc49e.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This split level home looks okay in the photo, but a little too boxy, small, and dull.  </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/1-1-P1020694_zps3c3a7f8a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-1-P1020694_zps3c3a7f8a.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">But when I moved to one side to take another picture, the building looks more interesting.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">People or pets in room.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>The message buyers get when they see people relaxing in the home is that you were in such a rush to get your house photographed that there was no time to ask people to step aside. It’s an affront to the buyer. Home buyers do not want to see people in these rooms. Pets in photos are a distraction as well. This apartment listing on Craigslist went viral because the owner's <a href="http://laughingsquid.com/dog-photobombs-every-picture-in-craigslist-apartment-listing/" target="_blank">dog photobombed</a> every shot, but I can't recommend that approach to get people noticing your listing!   <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Empty room.</span> <span style="font-weight: normal;">Of course, this blog is about home staging, so I never recommend a home be shown with empty rooms. A photo of an empty room is sad. Usually, it’s all flooring and blank walls and widows, giving no indication of size or the possibilities. DIY home staging is not rocket science and does not need to cost you big bucks! Stage your rooms. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></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://badrephotos.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/mirror.jpg?w=500&h=375" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://badrephotos.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/mirror.jpg?w=500&h=375" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">What's wrong with this picture? For starters, the photographer is reflected in <br />the mirror. Also, she's using a flash. The picture is crooked. It's not cropped. <br />The room's not staged, and the lid is up!</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Signs of ordinary life.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> It’s appalling how many MLS photos show laundry, toiletries, stacks of paperwork, garbage cans, and cars parked in the driveway. Tweak your home for its photo op. It takes only a moment to stash the pool toys, hide the cosmetics, and put the lid down on the toilet! <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unprepared. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">There is a <a href="http://hookedonhouses.net/category/bad-mls-photos/" target="_blank">website that features bad MLS photos</a>. It’s a primer for what not to do. I won’t insult your intelligence by telling you the basics of good home staging. Just be ready when your photo shooting takes place by reviewing the crimes I’ve listed here.<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">How to Fix</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Does a review of your online listing tell you that the photos fall short of what they could be? If so, you have a few options. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Talk to your realtor about improving the images. If you are selling your own home FSBO, replace the offending photos with better ones. Whatever cost and effort it takes is worthwhile. Your photos are your front line salespeople. They can be deal breakers or what gets people excited to see your home.  <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Replacing poor photos could mean that you need to spring for the cost of a professional photographer. What that will cost depends on where you live, the experience of the photographer, and how many photos you need.<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Or, you might have a friend who has the camera, the eye and the experience to do the job gratis. If you take the photos yourself, edit them. I use Picasa for all my photos and the simplest techniques always improve them. So straighten, crop, brighten the colors, and increase the contrast as necessary. It’s easy. Get help if this editing task is overwhelming.<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Maybe your listing has enough photos of your home to whet the appetite of home buyers, and you still have the opportunity for additional photos. Great! Don’t be shy about adding photos from other online sources. If you can grab a photo of your charming downtown, or the community pool, the local golf course, an annual festival, or whatever makes your town or neighborhood special, go ahead. Stay within bounds, however, because too many generic shots will make it appear that your home itself has little to offer. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Photos speak louder than words. Make sure your photos tell buyers how desirable your home is. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For more tips on making your home attractive to buyers, 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> It’s one sure way to be successful at staging your own home. </span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>

How Not to Photograph Your Home

It's spring.  Does your home's profile photo still show bare trees and snow on the roof?   When people shop for a home, they usually...

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