Solid Rock Realty Blog 

March 21, 2018

6 Spring Cleaning Tricks

Spring is quite possibly one of Colorado Springs' most exciting seasons. It is a time of new life, vibrant colors, and welcomed days of sunshine. Get into the spring spirit by bringing some new life into your home. There's no better way than with some good ol' fashioned spring cleaning! Maximize your home's potential by showcasing its perks. Dig deep into the depths of your closets and crawl spaces. Look all the way back into your pantry. Dust even the highest shelf that no one can reach. We think there is something therapeutic that comes along with the annual spring cleaning. Whether you agree or disagree, these cleaning tricks can help make your purge a little easier. 

1. Microfiber Towels

Microfiber is a game changer, especially when it comes to cleaning blinds. Use a dry microfiber towel to easily remove dust from your blinds. The dust clings to the cloth rather than flying out into the air. Try these magic little towels out on the walls too. It doesn't end there! They're great for wet or dry mopping. Have a spill? Save your paper towels, and grab a microfiber cloth! These bad boys will have it cleaned up in no time. Keep microfiber towels on hand for when you need them. Like we said, game changer.

2. Newspaper

Use dry newspaper and an alcohol-based solution to clean glass surfaces. The combo will cut grease and eliminate streaks. According to this article, newspaper is made of up rigid fibers, making it the perfect glass-cleaning utensil. Try it on your windows and mirrors if you have extra newspaper laying around.

3. Kool-Aid

Sprinkle a packet of lemonade flavored Kool-Aid into your toilet and take a scrub brush to it. The acid in the Kool-Aid will loosen any buildup and get rid of that toilet ring we all loathe. The same trick can be used on your dishwasher. Add the Kool-Aid to the washer and run an empty cycle. Clean with Kool-Aid and, just like that, mildew is gone!

4. Homemade Carpet Powder

Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil or a tablespoon of cinnamon powder to about a cup of baking soda. Sprinkle this mixture on your carpet and let it sit up to an hour. When you vacuum your carpet, the baking soda will help clean and the oil or cinnamon will leave behind a nice aroma.

5. Dryer Sheets

If you have a dryer sheet handy, there is almost nothing you can't do! Use them to scrub grime off of faucets, mirrors, shower doors, toilets, or even pots and pans. If your dish has a particularly tough stain, soak a dryer sheet in it overnight. It will be much easier to scrub the next day. Remove pet hair from furniture by wiping it down with a dryer sheet or dust your tv and computer screens with it. The possibilities are nearly endless!

 

6. Windows

Quite possibly the best thing you can do to amp up your spring-cleaning game is open your windows! Let in all the fresh air you can. There is nothing quite like a home filled with fresh spring air!

When it comes to spring cleaning, you really cannot go wrong. When in doubt, throw it out! Or, at least, find a better place for it while you decide if you want to keep it. There's no feeling like ridding your home of clutter and unused trinkets. Get organized and make better use of your home's space. You may not enjoy the process, but you wont regret getting your home into shape!

 

March 7, 2018

7 Things Every Homeowner Should Know

As a homeowner, you are likely to find yourself taking on tasks you never imagined doing. Owning a home can feel like a lot of work and, at times, may seem a little daunting. There may be days when it is best to call in a professional, but there are a lot of things we are confident you can tackle yourself. If you arm yourself with the proper skill set and aren't afraid to learn as you go, you may surprise yourself! Keep reading to find out what every homeowner should know how to do!

1. Replace Furnace Filters

Filters keep dust, hair, and other particles out of the air you breathe. Eventually, these filters become too clogged to properly do their job. Replacing them every 1-2 months is a good way to ensure the air being pumped into your home is clean. Proper and timely replacement of furnace filters will also increase the life of your furnace. A healthy furnace runs efficiently and saves money on your energy bill. 

2. Shutoff Main Water Valve

Water damage is a home's worst enemy. It is important to know where your water shutoff valve is located so that, in an emergency, you can cut the water supply to your home. It is typically located in the basement or in a utility area. Knowing where this is and acting quickly can save you thousands of dollars in water damage. It is a good practice to shut off the main water valve if you're going on vacation for a few days. It's better to take precautions than come home to a flooded basement.

Bonus tip: If you come home to flooding in your home, be sure you shut off the water supply before calling a plumber. Remove the water however you can, and get the area dry as quickly as possible to avoid mold and water damage.

3. Utilize Breaker Box

Familiarize yourself with your home's electrical box before you need to restore power to a tripped circuit. If you are doing electrical work and need to cut power to an area, be absolutely certain you have flipped the proper switch. Don't trust old labels or marks from previous owners. 

 4. Clean Refrigerator Coils

Coils help cool the air your fridge uses. Over time, these coils gather dust and become less effective, meaning your fridge is working harder than it has to. Cleaning your fridge's coils is the absolute best way to increase the efficiency and life of the appliance. This can be done with a vacuum hose or a bristled brush.

5. Clean Gutters

Debris buildup in gutters will eventually stop water flow, causing the water to pool. Ridding gutters of such debris is a fantastic way to avoid a leaky roof, interior flooding, and massive icicles. The ladder you use will vary depending on the height of your gutters. Gloves are good idea, and it helps to have a scoop to loosen debris.

Bonus tip: Once clean, run water through the gutters with a hose. This will clear out any remaining junk and is a great way to spot leaks.

6. Unclog A Drain

There are numerous ways to unclog a drain: baking soda and vinegar, snakes, toilet plungers, chemicals -- the list goes on. However you choose to unclog your drain, don't wait until you're showering in three inches of water or your kitchen sink wont drain. Take care of the clog when you first notice the issue. This can help you avoid a headache in the future.

7. Weatherstrip

Doors and windows are the perfect place for drafts. Attack this problem with weatherstripping! Weatherstripping can help seal problem areas, letting less outside air in. This will result in a more comfortable home as well as a lower energy bill.

 

Being a homeowner can feel overwhelming at times, but we are confident that you will learn as you go and be a master in no time! Set yourself up for success by learning what you can and knowing when to call a professional. If you are considering purchasing a home, give us a call! We are always more than happy to answer questions, recommend contractors, and guide you to your goals.

 

Feb. 19, 2018

7 Affordable Ways to Update Your Kitchen

For so many of us, the kitchen plays a crucial role in our daily lives. It may be safe to say that the kitchen gets more traffic than any other room in the house. It's a busy place, and it isn't just for cooking. A huge amount of life happens in the kitchen, and this is why we think it should be a place you love. You don't have to entirely overhaul your kitchen to transform it. Small changes here and there can go a long way, and they don't have to empty your savings. Check out some of our favorite ways to update your kitchen on a budget.

 

1. Deep Clean

Get out the gloves, sponges, buckets, and mops! Cleaning your kitchen is one of the best ways to give it a fresh look. Wipe down everything: the ceiling, counters, walls, and floors. Cleaning appliances will not only make the kitchen shine, but it will also increase their longevity. Be sure to take safety precautions and check appliance manuals before cleaning.

Once the kitchen is clean, try mixing things up! Rearranging a room is a fast and fun way to bring in new life. Move the dining table, shift the microwave, or clear the counter tops. Try out more than one thing. Once you find the right setup, you will know.

 2. Paint

Paint the walls. Paint the cabinets. Paint something! Painting is an absolutely fantastic way to transform any space. The necessary supplies shouldn't be too costly, and it can be done in a day. Find a color scheme you like and go for it! Pro tip: For a consistent color, box the paint before getting started.

Another fun option for walls is beadboard paneling. It is generally affordable and instantly adds charm to the room. Get the best of both worlds (paint and beadboard paneling) by creating a beadboard wainscot! Install the paneling on the bottom half of the wall and paint the top half.

 3. Add Open-Face Shelving

Turning a cabinet into open-face shelving can be a fun weekend project that will bring a modern look to your kitchen. Choose a cupboard in a place that would make sense to have shelving -- somewhere you may want to display fine china, ceramic pieces, cookbooks, or potted plants. For added flair, paint the back wall of the cabinet an accent color or cover it in fun wallpaper.

4. Replace Faucet

Installing a new faucet can be done in less than an hour, and it can go a long way to improve the look of your entire kitchen. While you're at it, take an SOS Pad to your sink. You will want the sink to shine just like your fancy new faucet!

 

 

5. Update Hardware

Switch out old cabinet knobs for new ones. Before heading to the store and purchasing the ones you like, take a look at the holes already in your cabinets to ensure you buy something that will fit. You may be surprised by how much this can update the feel of the entire kitchen. Replacing outlet covers and light fixtures can have the same refreshing affect.

6. Install New Backsplash

The purpose of your backsplash is to protect the wall from water. Because it typically covers a large area of space, updating your backsplash can have a huge impact on the look of your entire kitchen. With the right tools and a little work, your kitchen can be absolutely transformed!

7. Upgrade Countertops

Purchasing new counters for your kitchen will enhance the room immensely. That being said, it does not always feel like the most affordable option. The less costly materials such as laminate may not seem favorable, but you should do your research before ruling them out. Just like other materials, they have their pros. We think this guide offers a great breakdown of each option as well as average pricing for each. Upgrading your countertops doesn't have to empty your wallet. There are more economical options that you may just fall in love with!

 

Try one of these tips or try them all! Updating your kitchen can be done a little at a time, and we think each step will make you just as happy as the last. Remember that small changes can have a large impact on your entire kitchen. Mix it up, try new things, and figure out what works best for your space. If you are looking for contractors or designers, don't hesitate to give us a call. We are always more than happy to answer questions, provide recommendations, and help in any way we can!

 

 

Feb. 16, 2018

5 Ways to Make Moving in the Winter a Breeze

In real estate, there is a certain stigma attached to buying, selling, and moving in the winter. However, moving in the heart of winter, while it may not sound appealing, is not all bad! It is actually quite doable and, just like summer, has its perks. Truck and trailer rentals tend to be less costly and more available in the winter months. Moving companies and contractors are also a bit easier to schedule when temperatures are low and business is slow. While it can be daunting, relocating in the winter is nothing to lose sleep over. Read on for some pro tips and tricks to make your winter move a breeze!

 

1. Set up Utilities

Put transferring utility services into your name at the top of your to-do list. You don't want to get to your new house with all your helpers and open the door to a dark, frigid home. Even worse, you don't want to spend the first night of your home without heat or power. Most companies will let you schedule service start dates. Plan ahead as much as possible to make moving day easier.

 

2. Prep Both Homes

If snow and ice are an issue, get out there and shovel before you start moving. Clear walkways to both the old home and the new home. Floor protection tape can be purchased online and at most hardware stores. It is an awesome tool for protecting your floor from water and debris. Create a pathway to each room with it. Do not leave one single thing to pack on moving day. Have everything 100% ready to go. To make things even easier, have everything in the old home ready to go by the door so you can just grab and load!

Bonus Tip: If snow or rain is expected and time allows, consider fashioning a shelter over the path inside. Tarps and moisture-proof canopies are perfect for keeping your movers and their path dry(ish).

3. Have Towels Handy

If it begins storming mid-move, make use of old towels or sheets. If you're carrying in an antique dresser (or anything, really!) you can toss a towel or sheet over it to protect it from moister. You may also want to dry your hands or shoes periodically. Tarps can be useful too, if you have an open-bed truck. It may not be glamorous or even ideal, but it really can prevent moisture damage.

4. Protect Electronics and Glass

Exposing electronics and fragile items to extreme colds or temperature changes is not good for their health. Protect fragile items from the cold. Consider packing these things extra carefully and transporting them in a car rather than truck bed or trailer. In addition, be sure to move these breakable items inside first.

5. Show Your Helpers Love

Wow! Friends who are willing to help you move in the cold of winter are extra special. Show them how grateful! Have gloves, hats, and hand warmers ready for them. It's also not a bad idea to keep some hot chocolate or coffee inside for when they need a break. If you have hired professional movers, you might tip them a little extra to show your appreciation. 

If circumstances call for a winter move, don't panic. As long as you are flexible, prepared, and a little open-minded, you will be more than okay! Stay organized and stay prepared. Most importantly, keep smiling. If you are considering buying, selling, or renting a home in the winter, don't hesitate to give us a call. Our team is always happy to hear from you!

 

Feb. 15, 2018

Tax Deductions For Landlords

 

 

Love the idea of having rental properties but still unsure of how it will affect your taxes? There is good news! There are many tax advantages out there for investors to benefit from. Here are a few of the advantages available to you. Of course, we strongly suggest you always consult a tax professional if you want to seek advice on taking advantage of these benefits.

Depreciation: The IRS allows you to deduct the actual cost basis of the property, the structure (not the land) spread out into equal portions over several years.

Loan Interest/PointsIf you finance the property, mortgage interest to the lender is deductible.

Insurance PremiumsInsurance premiums are deductible.This includes Landlord Liability Insurance,Theft Insurance, and others including Fire/Theft/Flood Insurance.

Property TaxesThe yearly property taxes that you pay are all deductible.

Legal Fees: If you need to hire legal counsel, whether a CPA, Lawyer or Legal Professional, these expenses are all tax-deductible.

Commissions: If you provide a commission as incentive in finding an approved tenant, you can deduct these commissions.

Repairs and Improvements: Repairs are fully deductible while Improvements will likely need to depreciate.

Travel: Whether your rental property is nearby or far away, all mileage expenses are deductible. If it is far away, airfare, hotels, car rentals, and meals can be deducted.

Utilities: If you pay for any of the utilities, these expenses  are deductible. However, if your tenant pays these, you cannot deduct them. 

Advertising: Any paid advertising for finding tenants or placing ads is deductible.

 Property Management/Employees/ContractorsProfessional services like a property manager can be deducted and is highly recommended.

 

  Casualty and Theft Losses: At least a part of any losses due to damage or destruction from natural disasters can be deducted.

 

At Solid Rock Realty, we offer the professional services of Property Management to make owing a rental home as passive as possible and with you taking advantage of these exciting tax deductions, you’ll find more time and money to grow your rental portfolio! Contact us today for more information on how we can help you with financial freedom!

Feb. 15, 2018

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Property Manager

 

Knowing in detail, what you’re signing up for when hiring a Property Manager is essential. Make sure you do your due diligence, ask questions and if something seems too good to be true, as the old adage goes, it probably is. Management Companies come in all sizes and all offer different experience levels, services, and pricing. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions that we’ve received, here at Solid Rock Realty.

 

What is the scope of services you offer to your clients?

Look for a property management company that keeps your interests in mind and one that will be there for you, to free up your time. They should be able to do it all for you including marketing, leasing, management, and even the ability to sell your property is important. Make sure that they can provide appropriate maintenance, conduct random property inspections, and administer in-depth background checks for tenant screening.

What are the management fees and/or pricing options when the property is being rented?

Some companies offer a flat fee for management and others charge a percent of the rent total. Others charge only a percent of actual rent collected which is beneficial to you since you only pay if they are getting paid. This popular fee structure helps motivate property managers to fill vacancies quickly and to reach for higher rents.

Are fees assessed when the property has no tenants?

This is a very important question to ask for multiple reasons. Many companies will offer flat rate pricing which sounds great… until your property is vacant and they still charge you a monthly fee for managing a vacant property. How motivated would they be to fill the vacancy if they are getting paid while the property is empty?

 

What miscellaneous or “hidden” fees could I be charged for the management of my property?

A low monthly management rate is not your only concern. Some companies have many extra fees that you don’t expect when signing up. If they offer low monthly fees, chances are they are making money elsewhere off of you or your tenants with miscellaneous fees.

Can I cancel my management contract? There’s nothing worse than getting caught in a contract that you can’t get out of. Find a property management company that will allow you out of a contract if you are unhappy

How is rent collected and disbursed to owner?

The days of paper checks are in the past. Transparency is the word of the day. Your management company should be able to offer direct deposit and accept online rent payments. Direct deposit and online portals offers an immediate access to your account which can save you time and money.

Do you conduct property inspections and, if you do, what charge is associated with them?

Regular inspections are a must. Your property is at risk if you don’t. Most will charge an extra fee for inspections and some are done by request only. Some companies include a certain number of yearly inspections as a part of your contract so your best bet is to find a manager that feels as strongly about keeping your investment in good condition as you and take advantage of those inspections.

Do you mark-up maintenance and repairs?

Another way some property management companies add to their profits are to mark-up repairs. Paying a mark-up on maintenance could greatly diminish your profits so make sure that a potential property management company doesn’t charge more than necessary for repairs.  

How often will I get updates on my portfolio?

You should always be able to get updates, as often as you need them. Your portfolio is your business. Communication and transparency are key to the success of the relationship between Owner and Manager. Ideally, look for a company that offers full access to your portfolio, anytime, online through an Owner portal. A manager that doesn’t quickly return calls or emails and leaves an owner in the dark is a definite no, no…

 

At Solid Rock Realty, we are excited to speak to you and answer all your questions about Property Management! We look forward to hearing from you so contact us today!

Feb. 14, 2018

5 Fun Valentine’s Day Events near Colorado Springs

Visit these great locations for amazing Events and Specials that are sure to make your Valentine’s Day memorable with great ideas for couples, families, and solo options!

 

     1.    Valentine’s Flame-working Glass Classes- Colorado Springs, Co

     The perfect gift for that hard to shop for loved one. Fun and creative for Valentine’s Day! Something for all experience levels and beginners are welcome. 


     2.    Valentine’s Murder Mystery Event at Maggiano’s- Englewood, CoRomance, dinner, and murder all in one! Family style dining and you’ll want to bring your thinking cap.

 
3.    Manifest Your Soulmate- Colorado Springs, Co LIVE virtual class on Valentine’s day to learn the simple 4 step process that will attract the love of your life!


4.    Run 4 Love (5k & 10K)- Denver, Colorado Run on your own or with friends and loved ones! This virtual race can be completed from any location you choose. Participation includes two medals that spell LOVE when put together! 


5.    Cripple Creek Ice Festival- Cripple Creek, CoSpend a romantic weekend in at this year’s Ice Festival – featuring your favorite cartoon characters brought to life in ice! The festival will run from Friday, February 14th to Sunday, February 16th and during the following weekend.     

 

 

Feb. 12, 2018

5 Fast Ways to Remove Snow

At last, Colorado Springs has seen its first substantial snowfall. Some of us were more excited than others, but I think we can all agree that it has been an unusually dry winter. Perhaps a quick refresher on snow removal is in store.

A number of Home Owner Associations and landlords require snow removal and, as far as safety goes, ridding your driveway of ice and snow is generally a good practice. Whether you're a snow lover or a snow hater, check out these snow removal tips and tricks!

 

1. The Shovel

Shoveling: the classic method. A lot of good can come from getting out there and shoveling snow! It's great exercise, builds character, and gets the job done! That being said, take a few precautions before jumping into action:

Warm Up - Don't just go for it. Take a couple of minutes to get your heart pumping and warm up your likely frigid muscles. Do some jumping jacks or some lunges. This will help ensure you don't pull or strain a muscle. Plus, you will look really cool.

Bundle Up - We recommend warming up before bundling up. You can only move so much in 3 coats, a scarf, a beanie, 4 pairs of socks, and boots.

Know Your Limits - Don't fill the shovel entirely and then try to fling it out of the driveway. Snow gets heavy quickly. Try filling the shovel only halfway or buying a lightweight shovel. Ideally, you will push the snow with the shovel rather than lift it.

Don't Procrastinate - The longer you put off shoveling, the more packed, weighted, and difficult it will become. If possible, get out there while it's fresh and fluffy.

2. Salt Alternatives

Spreading salt is a fantastic way to melt snow and prevent slipping. Salt truly works, but what if the store runs out before the big storm or you forgot to pick some up and it's too late? Search your house for the following salt alternatives:

Sand - Inexpensive and effective.

Kitty Litter - Not likely to encourage melting, but will provide traction.

Beet Juice - Sounds weird, but totally organic, effective, and will not stain. Mix it with salt for the ultimate deicer.

Coffee Grounds - Will offer traction as well as a bit of a mess.

 3. Heated Mats

Heated mats and heated stair pads can be purchased at most hardware stores and online. They prove to be an easy and effective way to keep snow and ice buildup off steps and walkways. These mats are a bit pricier than a snow shovel, but are less time consuming and easier on the back.

4. Snow Scoop

Much like the shovel, you can't go wrong with a snow scoop. They're easy to use and work wonders in deep snow. Essentially, you just put it on the ground, walk, dump the snow, and repeat. Easy enough!

5. Snowblower

If you have access to a snowblower, you should first make sure you understand how to safely operate it. Your next step is to decided where you want to blow the snow before you get started. Ideally, you will blow it all away from the house and driveway. To better clear the area and avoid clogging, take it slowly. Patience is key!

 

However you choose to remove snow, you will find the most success if you get out there sooner rather than later. Fresh snow is a lot easier to move than packed, frozen snow. Always take the proper safety precautions and remember to have fun! If you need contractor or landscaping recommendations, give us a call! We are always happy to hear from you.

Feb. 9, 2018

Wear and Tear vs Tenant Damage, How to Tell the Difference

 

One of the more difficult to define tenant laws is “normal wear and tear.” In Colorado, normal wear and tear means deterioration that occurs, based upon the use for which the rental unit is intended, without negligence, carelessness, accident, or abuse of the premises or equipment or chattels by the tenant or members of her household, or their invitees or guests. Security Deposits withheld for normal wear and tear is a violation of Colorado law so it is imperative that the difference between the two is well understood to avoid being taken to court by your tenant.

 

Damage that occurs due to negligence, carelessness, accident or abuse is most likely not normal wear and tear. Usually a sudden event will happen with damage and normal wear and tear tends to happen over a period of time. This is not cut and dry though. A neglected wood floor could be considered damage due to lack of proper care by the tenant. The general rule is to only withhold deposit money for actual damages.

 

Here are 10 examples of normal wear and tear:

1. Scuff marks or worn patches on flooring

2. Wear patterns on carpet

3. Carpet seams unglued or unravel

4. Warping of doors and windows

5. Wall dents from door handles

6. Broken strings on blinds or curtains

7. Cracked light switch plates
8. Cracks in walls or ceiling from settling

9. Sun-faded/heat blistered blinds or doors

10. Wobbly toilet

 

Here are 10 examples of damage:

1. Holes or tears in flooring

2. Burns or oil stains on carpet

3. Pet urine stains on walls and carpet

4. Holes in walls not from doorknobs

5. Torn or missing curtains

6. Broken window or missing screens

7. Pest extermination if pets lived on the premises

8. Cuts/burns/cracks on countertops

9. Unauthorized painting

10. Appliances broken due to negligence

 

Completing an in depth move in checklist with incoming tenants is a first step in this process. Not only should the landlord detail the condition of the home, tenants as well should keep detailed records for their files. Disputes over deductions are common so properly completed condition forms, photos and even a video record of the move in condition will go a long way when it’s time to decide the disposition of the security deposit. If excessive damage is found after the deposit is returned, the tenant can still be invoiced but the chances of receiving payment are slim. We suggest always making sure an itemized receipt of any deductions is provided before returning any money.

 

Here at Solid Rock Realty, our professional Property Management team is here to help make sense of confusing tenant laws so contact us today for your free consultation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Feb. 8, 2018

Home Staging: Bedrooms

This is the final blog in our series on home staging. If you saw any of our previous blogs, you may already know that home staging is a way to make your home more attractive to buyers. Buyers may have a difficult time looking beyond moving boxes and vacant spaces. Staging your home is a fantastic way to help buyers imagine themselves living in your home. Statistics show that staged homes are not only more appealing to buyers, but they typically spend less time on the market. Check out some tips on how to get the bedrooms in your home ready for the market!

1. Clean-up

The first step to staging any room is cleaning up. Dust, vacuum, and vacuum some more! As much as you can, clear the bedroom of all personal items. Take down posters, tapestry, decals, and family photos. Remove hampers, knickknacks, and anything else making it look cluttered. Try to reduce the room to a few simple pieces of furniture. A great starting point is a bed, nightstand, and a dresser or writing desk. This task can be difficult if your living in the home while it's on the market. Do your best to simplify the room, enhance the look of space, and keep it clean.

2. Bed & Bedding

The bed will be the focal point of the room. Whether you're staging with an air mattress or the real deal, you should dress the bed just the same. The bedding should consist of fitted sheets, a comforter, and pillows -- a lot of pillows. Drape a throw blanket over the end of the bed for some bonus points. If you can get your hands on a headboard, it can easily be tucked behind the bed up against the wall. It will complete the look and provide a place for leaning pillows. When it comes to bedding, we recommend sticking to neutral colors that will complement the bedroom rather than distract from it.

3. Bedside Table

Place small end tables or nightstands on either side of the headboard. If you only have on table, not a problem! However, if you are using two tables, try to pick accessories that match one another and create a symmetrical look. Place a lamp on the table, a small plant, and maybe decorative vase or ceramic piece. Another option is to put a small tray on the table and fill it with decorative items or a decanter and two glasses.

4. Sitting Area / Extra Space

If your bedroom features a sitting area or offers extra space, you can make use of a dresser or a writing desk. You don't want to fill this extra space entirely. Rather, you want to attract the eye to it. Whether you are using a dresser, creating a work area with a desk, or using two chairs to make a seating area, keep it simple and subtle.

 

5. Art

Note that, prior to hanging art, the walls should be cleared of all tacks and nails and wiped down. A second thing to note is that art should not leave behind lasting damage. Command products are awesome for staging, as they do not damage walls. Don't over do it with art. You can't go wrong with a large canvas piece over the headboard. As for the rest of the walls, avoid wild colors that will distract from the rest of the room. Stick to neutral colors and try to choose pieces that complement one another. 

6. Windows

When in doubt, ditch the blinds and curtains! If blinds or curtains are available, keep them up but keep them open. Nothing beats natural lighting. Avoid dark, heavy curtains. Do your best to enhance the room with natural light.

 

Home staging is a great way to get buyers talking about your home and, even better, walking through it! If you are considering listing your home, don't hesitate to give us a call! We are always more than happy to provide tips, suggestions, contractor recommendations, and more! We want you feeling confident and finding success on the market.