Starr C. Osborne, owner and founder of Tailored Transitions, a Philadelphia-based home staging, moving-management, and design company, has put together these 10 tips to help sellers prepare their home for the market. Her new book, Home Staging That Works: Sell Your Home in Less Time for More Money (AMACOM, 2010) offers step-by-step and room-by-room instruction for professional-quality makeovers that will wow potential buyers.
1. In this market, it is wise to get a pre-inspection. Based on the results of your pre-inspection, schedule appointments with reputable vendors to get professional estimates on what repairing any major problems would cost. You, and your buyer, don’t want any surprises.
2. Identify the demographic of your most likely buyer. Keep them firmly in mind as you prepare to put your home up for sale. Is it for young couples starting a family? Is it for baby boomers downgrading after their kids have moved out?
3. Buy new house or apartment numbers to replace your existing ones if they’re dated or damaged. This is the first thing that buyers look for (to make sure they’re at the right place), so of course it’s the first thing they notice. You don’t want to start off with a bad impression. Continue reading »
Adapted from The Image of Success: Make a Great Impression and Land the Job You Want (AMACOM, 2010; $16.95 paperback) by New York executive recruiter Lizandra Vega. In her new book, Vega spells out the ABCs — Appearance, Behavior, and Communication — for getting a job. She touches of everything from lunch interview etiquette and personal space, to polite negotiation and resumé presentation.
1. The time-warp. You often hear interviewers criticize young applicants for their unprofessional look, but did you know that an old suit also sends a message? If you’re dusting off an interview suit for the first time in years, you’ll look out of touch with the current needs and situation of your potential employer (hint: it may be the shoulder pads). New entries: dress up. Experienced candidates: update.
2. Too much flair. Yes, you want to get your unique personality and assets across, but you don’t need 10 pieces of jewelry to do it. Should the interviewer be watching your face or looking at your wrist every time that clunky watch shakes? Choose one signature piece that will inspire confidence and set you apart. Continue reading »
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