SKOKIE, Ill. (March 19, 2011) – The greater real estate market is uncertain, but homeowners can use staging – the decorating equivalent to putting a best foot forward – to their advantage. The process of reorganizing and accessorizing a space for potential buyers, starts with a great paint makeover. Homeowners who seek objective advice, choose a neutral palette, and spend time looking at small details will have a competitive edge in the market.
“There are two pieces potential homeowners are looking at right now,” said Ian Robinson, real estate manager at Coldwell Banker in Northbrook, Ill. “First, a home has to be the right price. Second, there’s a beauty contest. It has to be a perfect storm of a combination of price and beauty for the home to sell.”
One of the fastest and easiest staging techniques is fresh paint.
“People underestimate the power of fresh paint,” said Liz McEnaney, owner of E. Claire Design in Northfield, Ill. With years of experience in staging homes, she warns homeowners to be cautious because an outdated or poor color choice can prevent the sale. People become immune and attached to their own space; McEnaney encourages hiring a professional to provide an objective eye to the rooms’ style and color palette.
Hester Painting & Decorating has been providing homeowners with expert painting advice for decades. Jeff Hester, vice president, said, “When selling a home, the wall color must be neutral enough for the buyer to see what life would be like in the home, but it also has to demonstrate potential for future decorating.” Hester suggests earth tones for a comfortable, eye-appealing space, McEnaney prefers to use a gray palate and Robinson suggests white or beige, but they all agree choosing a neutral hue is key to success.
Homeowners are encouraged to take action against scraped baseboards, peeling paint and outdated wall coverings. “Scuffs on the baseboards make the buyer wonder what else hasn’t been attended to. ‘Is this a well-cared-for home?’ they may ask,” Robinson said.
These steps accented by a freshly painted front door and entryway add to the appeal and charm of the home. A quality paint job plus well-arranged furniture and accessories says “welcome home” to prospective buyers.
Founded more than forty years ago, Hester Painting & Decorating provides homes and high-profile commercial establishments with high-end decorating services. Widely regarded as a leader in the fields of painting, faux finishing, and exterior and interior maintenance, Hester Painting & Decorating utilizes an enormous repertoire of finishes and wall covering techniques to create unique environments for its clients. More information about franchising opportunities and other services offered by Hester Painting & Decorating is available at (847) 677-5130.
