Owner: Twin Cities Staging - KFM Staging & Design URL:http://activerain.com/blogs/kfmstaging Join Date: Sun, 09 Dec 2007 16:20:32 -0600 Rating:0 Site Description: Accredited Staging Professional, ASP, home stager, real estate consultant, Professional Stager, Top Staging Company in Twin Cities, St. Paul Staging Company, Minneapolis Staging Company, redesign consultation, color consultation, vacant staging, furniture Site statistics:Click here
Home Stagers: Question, then Decide 2007-12-10 15:57:40 It is no surprise that home staging is a powerful tool in preparing homes for sale. Finding a qualified stager could prove to be a valuable asset for marketing your homes. Below is a list of questions to help you find just the right stager for you and your homeowners: What kind of staging training have you received?How long have you been staging?Do you have references that I may check out?Do you have a website or photo gallery of project that you have personally worked on?What agents have you worked with?What services do you offer?How will I or my homeowner benefit from staging?Can I see the terms of your Staging Agreement?It is important to thoroughly check out your potential stagers - they will be representing you while in your clients' homes. Interview the stagers face to face to see if their personality and policies will reflect your business in a positive manner. For more information regarding home staging, check out my other blogs.Click HOME STAGING Read more:Question
Forest Lake Luxury Townhouse SOLD!!! 2007-12-09 15:52:35 A testimony of how staging made the difference in a sale...Three vacant, luxury townhouses in a building were on the market the same time. All had the same beautiful views of a nearby lake, all were priced similarly. David Setness, from Counselor Realty in White Bear Lake put Staging & Design in touch with the homeowners to stage their townhouse. Within 40 days an offer was given, accepted, and the papers were signed! The buyers saw all three units and said that "Staging made the difference in their decision!" The other two units remained vacant and are still on the market.This testimony is not uncommon among agents who have their vacant listing staged. For more information on staging or to see additional gallery photos, visit: KFM Staging & Design! Read more:Forest
, Luxury
Example of a Christmas Staging Don't 2007-12-08 11:11:38 While on my daily errands, I came across this massive Christmas
display and thought this would be a perfect example of a Christmas staging don't. Although fun and festive for the kiddies, a yard with 13 Santas doesn't attract too many buyers. (The house has been cropped out to protect the innocent.)sUnbelievable, but this is not the only over the top yard display in the St. Paul area. This leads me to ask, where do these people store all this stuff when winter is over? Merry Christmas, stagers! Read more:Example
, Staging
Staging Class - Twin Cities Area 2007-12-06 09:56:39 Attention MN Realtors,I will be giving a staging presentation at John Glenn Elementary School in Maplewood, MN on February 25, 2008.This Power Point presentation will include:The benefits of stagingStaging
tips and techniquesBefore and after photosPhoto consultationThis informative meeting is open to Realtors and homeowners. Homeowners are encouraged to bring photos of problem rooms for commenting.This class is being offered by ISD 622 and has a fee payable to them. Cost is to be determined, but should be around $12 per person.KFM Staging & Design offers free office presentations for Realtors and mortgage officers. **FREE OFFICE PRESENTATIONS INCLUDE**-20 minute PPT presentation--Question and answer session_-Drawing for a free consultation--Free staging information for your listing presentation--Free links to our staging website and online staging articles-For more information on the class or to set up a free presentation for your office, contact me at 651-815-2949 or Read more:Cities
Just Shut Up!! 2007-12-05 09:01:40 Today's blog is inspired by Beate Brady's blog regarding consultation fees. After reading Beate's blog, I was reminded of an important lesson that I learned the hard way...As I have stated many times, I love this job! Once I get into a client's home and start talking staging, it is hard to get me to stop. When I first started consulting, this got me into trouble when I went on "free estimate" visits. On one occasion, the homeowners asked me a simple question, and off I went. I walked out of their door thinking, "They are not going to call me, I just gave it away for free."So lesson learned. Now when I give free estimates and I feel like I am about to spew staging secrets... I tell myself to "JUST SHUT UP!!! Quit giving this information away for free!"The best advice I was given was: KNOW YOUR WORTH! The staging consultations we give are valuable information that can save the homeowners hundreds
Stager vs. Homeowner 2007-12-04 16:58:08 I was contacted to stage a home in the St. Paul area. The only prior information I received was that is had been staged by the homeowner. After I hung up I was curious to what I was going to walk in to.After the initial consultation, I told the homeowner that the house looked nice, but staging could take it to the next level! Staged by the homeownerNot bad, but had a "grandmother" style. Fireplace after staging by KFM: Simple changes, yet effective. Greenery was added to the mantle and the hearth for much needed color. The rug was changed from a light circle to a rectangular red. With the removal of the rocking chair, the old fashion look has been transformed to old world charm that completely correlated to the style of the home. Staged by the homeowner: Again, nothing terribly offensive about this room.&nb
Wallpaper - Out with the Old... 2007-12-03 14:55:49 This is a redesign of a guest bedroom. Just another example of why people MUST remove wallpaper to update a room. BEFORE: AFTER: You can't tell from the photo, but the walls are a soft cream, the window treatments are a deep chocolate, and worn blue carpet was replaced with a soft neutral.This room is a guest room in my client's home. They were so happy with the results that they want their master bedroom redone as well!The only thing that I would change would be to move the curtain rods away from the window frame about 3 inches, so the panels hangs straight down. The homeowner installed the rods before I had a chance to say anything. They are thrilled, nonetheless.
A Smelly House 2007-12-02 19:01:58 Hello again stagers, it is time for my daily blog...Today's issue is regarding houses that SMELL FUNNY. A real estate agent recently sent me to a client's home that was on the market for a while to preform a staging consultation. She wanted me to comment about all the "normal" staging issues, but mainly I was to address the "smell" of the home. The homeowners were heavy smokers with pets - not an ideal house to list.Before the consultation, I did my research regarding air fresheners, carpet cleaning, etc., so when the consultation came all the information was laid out for the homeowners.Long story short, the homeowners complied with the recommendations and the house sold - YEAH!Staging Question: WHAT IS YOUR RECOMMENDATION TO HOMEOWNERS WHOSE HOUSES STINK? Read more:Smelly
, House
Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow... 2007-12-01 21:41:12 It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas! ...at least here in MN. Today we got about 8 inches of snow, and it is still falling! My favorite time in the winter is when it is snowing at night. The whole sky is lit up with light reflecting off every flake, and there is a quiet peacefulness in the air. It is like your sitting in the middle of a snow globe. But I digress, this new white addition always adds a challenge when staging or de-staging properties (I have two alone this month). Between the snow in the winter and the rain and heat in the summer (yes, it does get hot in MN), staging and de-staging properties are always an adventure! The life of a stager isn't all glamorous with me stomping around in my Sorels sporting some fine Minnesotan hat hair! Please, someone from Florida send a picture of a palm tree! Read more:Neither
Here's a Bright Idea 2007-11-27 09:13:46 How many times have you entered a vacant home and there was no overhead lighting in the main living space?On a recent vacant stage I came across this exact problem. BUT a couple steps into the room, the light in the adjacent dining room popped on! I went over to investigate and discovered that the homeowners installed an automatic light switch (one that turns on when movement is detected).WHAT A BRIGHT IDEA! (Sorry for the pun, but it fits so perfectly!) This may be a recommendation to future clients if lighting is an issue in their home. Read more:Bright
, Bright Idea
Staging Do's and Don'ts 2007-11-26 22:00:49 For homeowners who are looking for free home staging tips, below is a list of staging do's and staging don'ts. For AR stagers, take a minute to reminicse about your past consulting experiences. HOME STAGING DO'S AND DON'TS Do: display place settings at the dining room table.Don't: use the dining table as a storage shelf. Do: move your purse to a secure area.Don't: use your purse collection as wall art. (yes, I have actually seen it!) Do: add a lovely scent to freshen your home.Don't: use cumin or garlic as your "lovely" scent. Do: update your walls with a new coat of paint.Don't: experiment with faux finishes. Do: move your pet area to a less traveled area of the house. Don't: use your comforter in the master suite as the new dog bed. Do: place greenery as a decorative element on top the kitchen cabinetry.Don't: start growing a gard Read more:Staging
Staging Lingo 2007-11-24 10:29:11 There has been talk about a staging dictionary which is a fabulous idea. Until it becomes a reality, here is my version of a staging translating guide. You have ugly wallpaper.-translation-Let's update these walls. Your faux finishing is a faux pas.-translation-Faux finishing is a personal preference. Your knick knack collection is way out of hand.-translation-Let's start packing these things for your new house. What is that smell?-translation-Here are some home freshening ideas. The computer does not belong in the master suite.-translation-Let's make your room feel romantic. Your bathroom is disgusting.-translation-Thorough cleaning is recommended in all areas. Your dog has to go.-translation-Fido would love to spend some time at Grandma's house. It's all in the wording. Happy staging! Read more:Staging
, Lingo
Should I Reveal My Secret? 2007-11-23 13:31:57 As with many other stagers, I have my favorite shopping hot spots - places I go to get fabulous decor at incredible deals. I relish knowing that my stylized decor was purchased at a fraction of the cost. During consultations, homeowners have been inquiring about finding home accents for their new house. Should I reveal my secret shopping places? Or, should I keep that secret limited to the industry? Read more:Reveal
Staging OCD 2007-11-21 13:12:54 Is it me, or do other people suffer from Staging
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? I haven't been "professionally" diagnosed, but I find myself thinking about staging, furniture inventory, my client base, advertising.... ALL THE TIME!!!Is there such a thing as AR OCD? I am new to the site, but I think I'm starting to develop some symptoms.Kristina, KFM Staging & Design
Holiday Eating Strategy 2007-11-20 14:29:36 My daughters and I were talking about the big day on Thursday. We always get together with my in-laws (since the rest of my family has moved south), and there is always too much food! Here is the dilemma: How do you eat all the wonderful dishes without putting yourself in a self-induced food coma?This is what I tried last year and it works great... I take the smallest portion (about 3 bites worth) of every dish, that way, by the time dessert comes around, I am ready for more! Another tip: I bring the reusable food containers to bring home some left overs. I know it isn't an original idea, but it works. HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!Kristina, KFM Staging & Design Read more:Holiday
, Strategy
How to Choose a Stager 2007-11-19 15:15:01 Staging is fast becoming the tool of choice to help prepare your clients' homes for sale. The stager you choose will be a reflection of you. These guidelines should help you make the right decision. 1) Choose a stager who is professionally trained. Anyone can call themselves a "stager," but that doesn't mean that they know how to stage. With the popularity of today's HGTV shows, many people think they know what to do when staging a house just by watching tv. There is much more that goes into staging a home that what you see on the small screen. Stagers who have taken the time to be properly trained are more likely to give you positive results. 2) Find someone who has experience. Credentials are not enough. Does the stager have a website with photos of projects that they have personally worked on? Do they have references and referals? Newly hatched stagers may not have a lot of expe
Staging Over the Holidays 2007-11-17 23:06:59 If you are selling your house over the holidays, follow these staging guidelines: 1) Do not over decorate. -Keep holiday decor to a minimum -Use lights, artificial pine garland, and an accent color (ie. red berries, gold pine cones) -Place a centerpiece on the table and mantle (candles, surrounded by artificial pine garland) -Place a few decor pieces around the exterior door way (wreath, lighted pine trees in urns) -Avoid large yard displays 2) Do not use overt religious symbols -Your religion is not in your stuff, it is in you. -Pack the manger, David stars, and Kwanza items to use in your next house -Remember, your house needs to appeal to Read more:Staging
, Holidays
Sure Fit Slip Covers ON SALE!!! 2007-12-21 11:36:24 I just returned from our local mall to finish up the last of my Christmas shopping. I threw my bags down and logged on to AR to share the good news. I could not believe my eyes when I saw the sign:Sure Fit slip covers are on sale, buy one get one for $1.00 (through tomorrow)Don't walk, RUN to your nearest JC Penney and stock up!This Minnesota stager is going to stock up! So how many different colors are you getting: brown, tan, sage green, red... Read more:Covers
Kirklands Sale - Merry Chrismas to Me! 2007-12-18 20:32:51 Attention Shoppers:For those of you who are lucky enough to have a Kirklands
in your neighborhood, beginning today Kirklands' Christmas decor is 40% off! The sale runs through this Friday, so hurry on in before all the good stuff is gone! In addition, there is a $5 off coupon for a purchase of $20 redeemable now until Friday.Kirklands CouponI am heading on out tomorrow to find a new centerpiece for the dining table for our Christmas party. Don't you love a bargain? For those who have a Kirklands credit card, all purchases are 10% off on the last Tuesday of the month. Happy Shopping (since when is shopping NOT happy?) Read more:Merry
Virtual Staging Consultations 2007-12-18 16:04:57 KFM Staging
& Design now offers virtual staging consultations for homeowners who live outside Minnesota's Twin Cities Metro area. We listened to the concerns of agents from the extended suburbs and responded with easy to follow instructions for online staging consultations. Now distance doesn't have to be a barrier for a great looking house! Visit our website for complete instructions: www.kfmstaging.com It is no secret that a well prepared home is the best marketing strategy when listing a house. Take every opportunity to get the advantage over the competition - STAGE IT! KFM Staging & Design is fully accredited through Staged Homes.
What's Your New Year's Resolution? 2007-12-16 19:51:57 I just arrived home from my daughters Christmas program. I guess tonight marks when the race begins: finish the shopping, attend the parties, plan the menus... think of 2008 resolutions.My New Year's Resolution
: Besides the normal business pursuits, I want to learn how to snowboard this winter and ride motorcycle in the summer. Before you ask, the answer is no, I am not going through a mid-life crisis. Living in MN, you either need to stay indoors for six months or learn to love outdoor winter activity - I have chosen the latter of the two. The motorcycle thing is a fashion decision. My husband bought me an adorable riding jacket, and it is too cute to leave in the back of the closet!WHAT IS YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION?
Camera Quiery 2007-12-15 09:11:53 Stagers & Realtors:I am in the market for a new camera, and would like to purchase a new one after the holidays. I have heard good things about the Kodak v750 (dual lens camera) from previous postings. But being the Type A personality that I am, I want to check out all my options before I hand over my credit card.My new camera requirements:I would like to keep it under $500 wide angle lens (or comparable) to photograph roomsvideo functionbuilt in lens coverWhat camera do you use, and are you pleased with the results? Read more:Camera
I'm Peeved - (no name calling allowed!) 2007-12-14 10:03:25 ~Before you call me a Scrooge or Grinch, this blog is simply a lighthearted reflection of this past year~ I'm not sure what an actual PEEVE is, but the following is a list of items that immediately stuns my staging radar when I see it. I quietly ask myself, "Why?"... TOP TEN STAGING PET PEEVES(examples taken from actual staging clients)Over friendly and curious dogsUnresponsive homeowners - those who stare at you blankly as you explain the consultationUn-flushed toiletsA member of the home owner's family who is sleeping in their bed while I evaluate their room.Nude art - and I'm not talking Van Gogh!Unidentified odorsUnidentified stains on the carpet (may be the cause of the unidentified odors) Floors that display more clothes than the closet Floating art work (too small for space or hung waaayyy too high on the walls)Year 'round Christmas trees (Come on people, when the holidays are done take them down!) The answer to the "Why" quest
What's Your Theme Song? 2007-12-13 08:51:12 From the Sony Walkman to the iPod Nano, music-on-the-go is now requirement for most of us. With wires hanging from everyone's ears I wonder what song describes them the most.Even though it is thoroughly embarrassing for my daughters, I have adopted "Wherever We Go (that's where the party's at)" by the Newsboys as my personal theme song. I relate to it by finding joy in all that I do, not that everything I do is enjoyable - but it's a choice. It also gives credit to Whom credit is due. And I have no reservations to loudly singing along in the car - again, mortally embarrassing of my children! So, what is your personal theme song? and why? Read more:Theme
Golden Valley Rambler $274,900 2007-12-12 13:05:55 ---MINUTES AWAY FROM MINNEAPOLIS ---This GoldenValley
rambler is an excellent home for the newlyweds just starting out in life or for the empty nester's anticipating grandchildren visits! THIS HOME FEATURES:Three bedrooms (two main level, one lower level)Two bathrooms (newer fixtures, upgrades)Updated kitchenLarge laundry roomTwo fire placesHardwood floors throughoutFinished lower levelFenced-in back yard with mature treesFor more information or to schedule a showing visit contact:Matt Barker and Brandon Hedges at www.barkerhedges.com KFM Staging & Design - Creating first impressions that sell! Read more:Rambler
I've Been Widgetized! 2007-12-12 09:21:09 After a lot of help from fellow AR-ers, I am now an official Widget-teer! Take a look: MY BLOGIf you are new to AR or working on your profile and widgets, check out Brad's Blog for complete details. It is self explanatory and so easy that even I could follow it! There is a few things that I am still working on, but all the basics are there. The down side of working on my widgets and settings for a solid day: The following night was dream-filled with bizarre widget creations!For the widget masters who are out there: Please share links to other widgets!!! I promise I won't go crazy with them!
Gifts for Realtors, any ideas? 2007-12-11 10:23:35 I am always looking for ways to say "Thank You" to my business relationships especially during the Christmas season. The holiday cards/gifts for my agents are being mailed out today. Without spoiling the surprise, let's just say lunch is on me. So this gets me wondering...What gifts do you give to your agents? How much do you usually spend per agent? Do you give a gifts to the homeowners you currently working with? Or is that going too far?Decisions, decisions... It's great to have AR as a source to turn to with issues like this!Happy Holidays! Read more:Gifts
, ideas
, Realtors
Manicure and other Essential Staging Fees 2008-03-04 13:22:01 For blog readers where aren't stagers, you may not appreciate the physical side of staging: moving furniture, hanging window treatments, wiring artwork, cleaning, ironing, packing, unpacking ... all of which takes a toll on our hands! Driving home from my latest vacant stage, I was looking at my hands on the steering wheel pondering, "Maybe I should charge a manicure fee with my vacant stages." But then why stop there? Pedicure Fee, Massage Fee, Wine Fee (for those difficult clients), Whine Fee (again, for those difficult clients)...Hands up for all the hard working stagers and their messed up manicures! Read more:Essential
, Staging
What the Heck is That - REVEALED! 2008-03-03 21:24:05 Kathy (and a few others) have got it right! It is an old fashion fire extinguisher.Take a closer look at the label: Take a look at the illustrations: The instructions are to break the bottle next to the fire or to sprinkle it over the fire. It really only holds about a liter of water - maybe it's enough to put out a candle!THANKS FOR GUESSING!
What the Heck is That?! 2008-03-02 20:38:06 On a recent appointment, I came across a peculiar item hanging on the wall. I have never seen anything like this before, so naturally I asked the homeowner about it. I was quite surprised when she told me what it was. Can you guess what this item hanging on the wall is? Let me know what you think it is, and I will reveal the answer on a later date.
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