Friday, January 29, 2010

Are You Ready For The Change Of Seasons?

Are we ever satisfied with the season we are currently in?

For me the answer is no and it seems that I can't wait for the season to change. I love the fact that we enjoy the 4 seasons here but I personally love Spring and Fall. The summer months in the Atlanta area are too long and hot for my taste and the gray days of winter with the icy winds keep me inside too many days. But I'm still glad to see the changes and start anticipating the next season halfway through the current one -- we need the renewal and are in awe of God's blessings of the beauty we see.

Spring brings that feeling that we need to clean out our closets, garages and basements. Even as early as January we are starting the process by purchasing containers to hold our treasures and organize our busy lives.

If you are looking for help and inspiration in purging and organizing give It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc. a call.

It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
http://www.itsahootie.com/
hootie@itsahootie.com
678-953-1678

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Are You Tired Of Constantly Keeping Your Property Show Ready?

Keeping your property show ready is tiring -- don't give up, your buyer may show up or drive by today!



We know that constant picking up, cleaning up, wiping up, putting things where they belong is a very daunting task, but it is so important to not let your guard down. If you don't stay with it your realtor will make that call saying I have a buyer that wants to see your house in an hour. Does this throw you in a PANIC? Don't let this add to the stress that you will automatically feel during the selling of your property.



Realtors work very hard in the marketing of your home and trying to match a buyer to your property. If you want to make a quicker sell you must continue to keep it show ready.



Call It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc. if you need a consultation regarding your homes show appeal. We're here to help make the property show at it's very best to make the sell go faster.



It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.

http://www.itsahootie.com/

hootie@itsahootie.com

678-953-1678



Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Should A Realtor Do The Staging Of Your Home?

Realtors should not stage your home when selling it.

Here's why....

I know that there are a lot of very talented Realtors that can stage your home, but that shouldn't be their priority. There are professional stagers that are full time in this business and they do it every day. A realtor should know the importance of staging but their professional time should be in marketing the listing which is a full time job.

Stagers are available to help and assist the real estate agent by freeing up time that he or she needs to do what they do best...selling your home! The agent is so busy with their listings and showings and closings and marketing...WOW how do they keep up?

At It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc. we are the Realtors best friend and asset to help sell the home. Call today for more information or a consultation.

It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
http://www.itsahootie.com/
hootie@itsahootie.com
678-953-1678

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.ampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

What Does A Redesigner Do?

Redesigners typically come into your home and redecorate the room or rooms that you have chosen using what you currently have.

The first thing a redesigner looks at is the current layout, furnishings and accessories. Next they evaluate the space and redo the layout and accessories to achieve better flow and visual interest. They also will use items you may be using in another part of your home. The main purpose is using what you already have.

For many redesigners this is as far as they take it. At It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc. we can offer much more. Here are some things we also include:

painting interior walls, trim and cabinets
cabinet glazing
faux painting techniques
removing and laying tile
countertop and backsplash
wallpaper hanging and removal
custom wall murals
upholstery for existing furniture
creative repurpose for older furniture
creative design and build of furniture
framing bathroom mirrors
closet organization and design
storage organization
color consultation
detailed storyboard and sample consultations for DIY
faucet installations
light fixture installations
window treatments
personal shopper

Call today for a consultation and get a new and updated look for your home.

Janann "Hootie" Duncan

It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
www.itsahootie.com
hootie@itsahootie.com
678-953-1678

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Thursday, January 21, 2010

When Is The Best Time To Sell Your Home?

Typically the best time to sell your home is in the springtime.

After a long cold and dreary winter people naturally are wanting to get out and about. They have this need for a renewal of their spirit and what better way than to see God's beautiful world. Change in our view and change in our lifestyle can play a part in looking for a new address to call home during this new season. We see it as a new beginning.

With the big tax credit that is now available home buyers and home sellers should take advantage of this great opportunity. Get a jump on the spring season before this tax credit runs out in April. Make sure if you are selling your home that you make it more competitive among the many selections that buyers are offered by having it professionally staged.

Call today for a consultation on how to make your home show the best that it can in this tough and highly competitive market. Don't waste precious time.

It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
http://www.itsahootie.com/
hootie@itsahootie.com
678-953-1678

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Friday, January 15, 2010

Making Your Redesign Client Happy

What is the key to making your redesign client happy?

Ask them questions. OK, but what type of questions?

If you want to give your client their money's worth and make them a returning client you must meet their needs and desires. So many times a designer walks into the home and immediately starts telling the client what's wrong and they will actually end up insulting them. The best approach is to find out what they are really looking for. We are such a visual society and it is hard for the lay person to vocalize what they like in a way that someone else will understand. By asking leading questions you are able to draw out the ideas so you can get to the same page with them.

Here are some typical questions:

1. What are your hobbies or activities as a family?
2. How would you like to use this space?
3. Where do you like to vacation?
4. How do you spend your weekends and free time?
5. What colors do you like and don't like?
6. Do you entertain?
7. Do you like modern, traditional, country or antique furniture?
8. What magazines do you enjoy?
9. What is your budget?
10. What is your reasonable desired timeline for this project?

After getting the responses, the designer has a much better chance of meeting their expectations and needs. This will definitely lead to future projects together.

Call today to discuss your dreams and ideas...

It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
www.itsahootie.com
hootie@itsahootie.com
678-953-1678

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Why Should Realtors Use A Home Stager?

All realtors should use a home stager to sell their clients property.

As a realtor the agent has a fiduciary obligation to the seller. They work for the seller first and then the buyer. By using a home stager the agent and the home owner increase the opportunity for a quicker sell with less price reductions.

How does staging a home make a difference?

1. 80+% of the potential buyers start their search on the Internet - RESULT) By having the home staged you start with more appealing pictures of the property. Buyer's interest is peaked and your home is added to their list of possibilities.
2. Enhances the showing of the home by showcasing the features - RESULT) Gives the potential buyer a better chance of visually seeing themselves living there. The staging removes the distractions of the sellers personal choices and any obstacles such as clutter.
3. When staging the property you take care of any repairs or updates that may be needed - RESULT) The potential buyer has fewer reasons to make an offer with drastic price reductions. They want a home that is move in ready...move on Saturday, church and family on Sunday, back to work and school on Monday.
4. Home Staging is marketing and advertising your property - RESULT) It provides that emotional marketing and advertising at first glance and reduces the time on the market...more money in your pocket faster.

Home staging cost will vary from one home to another, but on average you can expect $150 to $2000. Consultations provide a list of things to do for those do-it-yourself people. Stagers try to use as much of the sellers furnishings and accessories first. In some cases there may be a need to rent or purchase some key pieces of furniture - stagers are smart savvy shoppers and can be a great resource with this option.

Call today for more information about home staging, we always work within your budget with great results.

It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
www.itsahootie.com
hootie@itsahootie.com
678-953-1678

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

What Are Home Buyers Looking For?

Home buyers are looking for a home that they immediately see themselves living in.

If you are selling your home you must ask yourself some really serious questions and be prepared to answer truthfully and honestly. This is a difficult task for many home sellers because we see nothing wrong with our homes and lifestyles. The important thing to remember here is that as a home seller you have added the task of marketing and advertising to your resume.

Here's what most buyers want:

1. Move in ready - they feel this when walking in the first time
2. No repairs staring them in the face - wallpaper removal, paint color change
3. Updated and modern - no lace curtains
4. Room to raise a family and to entertain - open spaces
5. Conveniences and location - community amenities


It is true that you can't please every potential buyer but at least make the obstacles less troubling. Most people can't paint and are intimidated by too many bold colors and wallpaper. Why not let a professional stager either give you the advice or staging that you need to sell your home quickly.

Call today for an appointment....
It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
http://www.itsahootie.com/
hootie@itsahootie.com
678-953-1678

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Southern Living Idea House 2010 In Senoia

Can you believe that our small town Senoia will host one of the Southern Living Idea Houses for 2010?

This is such an honor and so exciting. The community of Senoia will see a great economic impact from the thousands of visitors to the Idea House.

The house itself is in the current building stages with 3 to 4 other homes going up around it. The location is on the previous McKnight Gin Property which is located directly behind the post office in Senoia. The home will be the first "brownstone" that Southern Living has introduced since doing the Idea Homes over the past several years. The design concept is from a local Peachtree City architectural firm - Historical Concepts. Urban in-town living will be offered through this unique design and layout.

The home is scheduled to be open for visitors in early June 2010 and the proceeds will benefit The American Cancer Society Cattle Baron's Ball 2010. One of Coweta County's interior designers, Jamie Elliott McPherson of Hearth and Home Interiors has been chosen to decorate the home. Jamie, who resides in Roscoe just outside of Newnan, is known locally and nationally as a kitchen designer. The builder is John Bynum Custom Homes, Inc.

The massive home is 3.5 stories high and spreads over 3700 square feet. Some of the features include a roof top terrace, courtyard and grilling pavillion. It is expected to draw up to 40 thousand visitor.

For more information on the Gin Property you can contact Harry Norman Realtors in Senoia.

If you are looking for redesign or staging help please contact:

Janann "Hootie" Duncan
It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
678-953-1678
www.itsahootie.com
hootie@itsahootie.com

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Are Air Fresheners A Good Idea When Selling Your Home?

If the air freshener has a fragrance...it may not be a good idea.



I know, you enjoy the smell of lavender, melon or whatever. Did you know that several people are allergic to fragrances or perfumes? Not all smellers like the same aroma.



You may feel that you need "fresher" air in your home but you are better off using the neutralizer sprays that do not emit any fragrance. Better yet, when the weather is more agreeable you should open your windows to allow the stale and musty air out.



I read that you can wave a rag around in a room that has distilled vinegar on it and cigarette smoke smells should disappear...not sure...but may be worth a try.



Bottom line - ask someone you know that will tell you the truth to come "sniff" to see if you have an odor problem. You can then plan your course of action.



Call us today for an appointment, we are here to help.



It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.

http://www.itsahootie.com/

hootie@itsahootie.com

678-953-1678



Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto.

What Does Your Front Door Say

Did you know that front doors have a lot to say?

I know that sounds impossible but believe me they do talk. If you are selling your home your front door gets to make the second statement about your home - the landscaping and yard make the first.

Here is what your door typically says:

"Welcome, my owners are really caring" or
"I feel old and tired, can you see my wrinkles"

Make sure that if you are selling your home, listen to what your door is saying. Is the paint faded or peeling, caulking hanging out from the glass panes, door knobs tarnished or discolored? Don't give that potential buyer an opportunity to form the opinion that there may be other more costly repairs waiting inside. You need to make the correct impression to sell your property.

Call for a consultation today for professional advice. We see things that stand out - things that you can't see as a potential red flag.

It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
www.itsahootie.com
hootie@itsahootie.com
678-953-1678

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin, Tyrone, Stockbridge, Sharpsburg, McDonough, Turin, Luthersville, Lone Oak, Hampton, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Greenville, Lagrange, Grantville, Hogansville, Moreland, Fairburn, Palmetto

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Pet Lovers and Selling Your Property

Can owning an inside pet cause problems in selling your home?

I too love and own pets, but when your home is on the market you must work extra hard to address the pet situation on a daily basis. Many people either don't like a pet inside a home or they suffer from allegeries.

So what is the solution?

First you must seriously consider if there is an alternate location to place your pet while your home is available for sale. Is there a family member or friend that can keep "Fido" or "Kitty" for a few weeks? If you can't exercise this option or you can't part with your pet then you must be deligent on a daily basis to remove the signs that a pet resides in your home.

Make sure that you remove all pet hair (yes even short hair pets shed) every day. You must vacuum and pay special attention to their favorite spots. If you have a cat then you must also make sure the cat liter pan is removed from the home when your home is being shown. When you have a cat your smeller gets immune to the odor but be assured that a non-cat person will pick up on the smell immediately...don't take the chance!

If you know that your home will be shown in advance you will need to leave and take your pet with you. Who knows, the pet may enjoy an outing. Also - DON'T FORGET THEIR FOOD AND WATER BOWLS and spray an AIR NEUTRALIZER.

If you need other staging do's and don'ts call today for a consultation.
It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc.
678-953-1678
www.itsahootie.com
hootie@itsahootie.com

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Newnan, Sharpsburg, Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone, Griffin, McDonough, Stockbridge and other locations.

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Country vs. City Living


Do you favor living in the country or city?

During our lifetime we experience so many changes and some of us act out on bringing change to our address. The reasons we choose to change our address are many. Is our current space too small for our family, are we looking for a new style home, is our current neighborhood looking tired and worn down...these are just a few to consider.

What are the advantages of country living versus city living? Many say the county life will give our children the opportunity to experience the beauty that God has graciously provided. Even if you never had children or maybe they have grown up, there is a lot to be said for the open spaces that country living offers. We all experience so much stress in today's economy and environment that I believe a visit to the country can help bring calm back into our life.

City living on the other hand can bring the excitement and conveinence that life has to offer. We like the time saving features of jumping into the car and being at our favorite store or restaurant. We thrive on being around people and experiencing that interaction. There are so many venues to choose from.

Whether you choose the country or city, you can bring a taste of each style into your home no matter where you reside. For example, if you live in the city your home decor can be country and if you live in the country your decor can be modern. But how do you get this look without breaking the bank? It is really easier than you think.

Consider using a professional home redesigner that can decorate your home by making it easy to experience the style that you dream of.

Call It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc. today for your consultation and start living your dream. 678-953-1678.

http://www.itsahootie.com/
hootie@itsahootie.com

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin and other locations.

Monday, January 4, 2010

When Is It Time To Call A Home Stager?

NOW IS THE TIME TO CALL A HOME STAGER.

Using a home stager before putting your home on the market puts you ahead of the game and reduces the time it is listed. If you have already listed you should still have your home professionally staged.

At It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc. we come into your home and set it up so that it will appeal to potential buyers. We know how to arrange your furniture and accessories to take full advantage of your homes features. Making your home say "I want to live here" is our speciality. Even if your realtor has taken pictures and listed your property we take "after" pictures that show your property to its greatest potential - then your realtor can update the listing.

Let us stage your home today....call Hootie for an appointment 678-953-1678.

www.itsahootie.com
hootie@itsahootie.com

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Griffin, Peachtree City and other locations.

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Time For Organizing Your Home

Is it time to organize your home?

It's the new year and time to start fresh and re-new our energy. You see organizing boxes everywhere you shop during January so why not take the time to do some de-cluttering and organizing. If you are in the market to sell your home you should definitely give organizing a top priority.

Here are some simple tools to start your process:

1. Purchase plastic storage boxes that fit your area and items
2. Look into buying a label maker - really cool tool
3. Check out the garage storage items like racks, hangers or shelving
4. Tape measure, screwdrivers, screws, etc.
5. And the most important- AN ORGANIZATION PLAN - keeps you on track

Take the time to do this right and you will accomplish a lot more. The best advice is to start with one room or area and complete it before moving on. This will help to eliminate that feeling of being overwhelmed.

Any well organized area is a plus for selling your home. Use it as a marketing tool to help get your home sold - storage is a big selling feature. Another benefit - it makes you feel good.

If you need help or ideas in organizing, staging or redesigning your home give It's A Hootie Staging & Redesign, Inc. a call today. We're here to help. 678-953-1678.

http://www.itsahootie.com/
hootie@itsahootie.com

Serving the south metro Atlanta area including Senoia, Fayetteville, Newnan, Peachtree City, Griffin and other surrounding locations