How Do I...?

Q. My real estate agent wants me to call in a decorator to "stage" my home. My home looks fine, so why should I spend money when I'm selling the place anyway?

A. Don't be offended. You and your real estate agent have a delicate relationship, based on mutual trust. If the real estate agent were to take it upon him/herself to critique your home, it might create awkward feelings between you. But obviously, as an expert in the field of real estate, they know what sells more quickly, and for more money, and today, that is the model home look. Few of us live like that, but we sure like it when we see it.

Any money you spend staging your home will more than likely result in a higher price and/or a much quicker sale. Often, the decorator will work with what you already have. Depending on what you would like to accomplish, and what is recommended, it may also mean a coat or two of paint in some areas of your home. The process of staging shouldn't make you uncomfortable in your own home, and you