ANNAPOLIS STAGING AND DESIGN : AN AFFORDABLE SOLUTION TO AN EXPENSIVE PROBLEM Laura and Carolyn founded their business on the idea that people shouldn ’ t have to rely on expensive heirloom decorating to maximize the appeal of their home or to get their property sold . “ As artists and professional decorators , Laura and I have a great appreciation for higher-end interior design . But not everyone needs or can afford that . Our clients appreciate our equally talented but more casual , priceconscious approach to design and staging ,” Carolyn said . “ For many households , heirloom quality art , antiques and furniture may be out of reach . This issue of affordability doesn ’ t mean our clients ’ home needs to suffer from a lack of taste , style and design or that decorating can ’ t be quick and great fun ! We offer our design skills and a genuine desire to be of service in the real estate selling process at a reasonable price .”
HOW IT WORKS FOR YOU The staging process is relatively painless . The goal of staging is not to decorate the home as you might like were you to live in it , but rather to make it universally appealing . It is to create an ambiance that conveys to the potential buyer that this home would make their life better , or that it would be ideally suited to their goals .
With this goal in mind , the Stager assesses particular rooms — usually the common rooms and perhaps the master bedroom — that might be a concern . There is usually a consultation fee for this service . The stager then employs interior design skills and keen eyes for organization to clean , declutter , and revitalize spaces that potential buyers might otherwise view critically . Freshening up might mean painting , hanging artwork , moving furniture around , taking away unappealing pieces . Empty homes might necessitate additional work and rented furniture as the Stager creates a scenario that will show potential buyers what a room might look like with their own home goods in it .
Experienced stagers like Laura and Carolyn offer an inventory of their own décor that clients can rent while their home is on the market . Oftentimes , the cost of these items is far less than the price of renting or buying the goods on your own . Additionally , you aren ’ t stuck with décor that might not work in your next home . The stager will source any items they don ’ t have , and will deliver and assemble furniture as part of their service .
Staging does require no small amount of tact , as your Stager might advise removing a piece you particularly love . “ When I know a home needs some adjustments , I rely on stagers who can be mindful of homeowners sentimentality about their furniture ,” Marilyn Hendley says . “ I remind my client that we are transforming the space for the good of the sale , and usually that motivates the seller to be more accommodating to the changes the stager might recommend .” Laura and Carolyn have been known to remove valuable antiques or highend furniture if there is a risk of damage from house-hunting guests who may not be on their best behavior or if they are outdated and unattractive . “ Sometimes our heirlooms are unique and not necessarily appealing to buyers , and its important to have a discerning tactful voice that is willing and able to get us past the changes that must be made if we want a quick sale and to move on to the next adventure ”, Carolyn says .”
GREENBOOK | SUMMER 2017 27