Margaret Oscilia-Home Stager, Salem Oregon

You won’t believe what home was under contract in less than 30 days with a great offer and no contingencies!

Of course – it looked like this when it went on the market and caused a buzz from day one about how great it looked!

While discussing the real estate market with a realtor from another state last week, he said “What’s selling? Price and Pristine. Buyer’s are choosy these days – but those two elements still are bringing in offers.”

With so many homes to choose from - this home could have easily been passed by when buyers were selecting homes to view. Home staging prepared this home to compete before it went on the market and the savy realtor priced and marketed the home strategically -- Sold in 26 days!

Well priced and in pristine condition -- we think he’s right!

Creative Concepts and Contracting provides quality home staging services. Helping home owners through affordable consultations, great ideas and stunning transformations – contact us at 503-881-0886 for more information on how staging can set your home on the path to sold!

Economic stimulus – popular buzzwords these days, but how does it apply to me or my business? How has the new Stimulus bill affected the tax credits for energy efficient home improvements? Are there funds available and how do I find out if I qualify? Is there a tax credit for new homes?

These are questions we all are asking as we hear of billions of dollars being earmarked for stimulus packages. The New York Times put together a helpful summary highlighting the funds available for individuals here. Tax cuts and credits for business are detailed here.

One area we have been especially interested in are the credits, rebates and stimulus offered for energy or “going green” projects. The significant changes to the energy efficiency tax credits. are:

• The tax credits that were previously effective for 2009, have been extended to 2010 as well.
• The tax credit has been raised from 10% to 30%.
• The tax credits that were for a specific dollar amount have been converted to 30% of the cost.
• The maximum credit has been raised from $500 to $1500 for the two years (2009-2010). However, some improvements such as geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, and solar panels are not subject to the $1,500 maximum.
• The $200 cap on windows has been removed, but the requirements for windows have been increased significantly. Not all ENERGY STAR qualified windows will qualify.

Details for stimulus funds available for energy related projects can be found here and includes information on funds such as:

• Grants to cities, counties and states to increase energy efficiency - $6.3 billion
• Increase financing for home weatherization program - $5.0 billion
• Increase energy efficiency in federal buildings - $4.5 billion
• Repair and modernize public housing units - $4.0 billion
• Increase tax credits for residential energy efficiency improvements - $2.0 billion
• Incentive for alternative vehicle - $2.0 billion;
• Expand tax incentives for residential renewable energy - $268 million

Additional specific information can be found on the US Department of Energy’s website - whose tag line I love -- The quality of our environment is everyone's responsibility!

Creative Concepts and Contracting provides quality repairs, remodeling and updating, professional home staging and redesign. Licensed, bonded and insured CCB#180695.

That may be how long it takes us from over-reacting and preparing to think before we speak, but –

it’s also how many seconds you have to make a great first impression on that potential home buyer!

Within seconds, buyers have formed a strong first impression – one that’s hard to change! With buyers choosier than ever, if your curb appeal isn’t fantastic, they may not even set foot in your home. Not willing to take a chance on making a best first impression? Follow these tips to increase your curb appeal!

• Make sure the street, sidewalk, walkway and porch are free from garbage, leaves and moss. Pressure wash if needed.
• Remove oil drips from the driveway and repair cracks in the walkway
• Is the exterior paint in top condition? If not repaint a neutral color. Paint shutters and door.
• Paint/stain fences – replace broken boards and be sure gates work easily
• Apply new door hardware and a shine up that brass kick plate
• Buy a new welcome mat and replace the house numbers – make sure they are very visible from the street.
• Put a planter that does not obstruct traffic flow with seasonal flowers in the porch area
• Check porch and entry area weekly for cobwebs, dirt and keep spotless.
• Install a new front porch light fixture – use maximum wattage bulbs
• Clean windows inside and out - replace any cracked or fogged glass and damaged screens
• Roof must be in great condition, no missing shingles and moss free
• Make sure the gutters and downspouts are in good working order. Pressure wash or paint if needed
• Lawn must be edged, mowed, weed free and kept green and in good condition.
• Invest in great landscaping – bark mulch, nice plants – attractive and low maintenance

Create an inviting and cheerful entrance and set the tone for a successful showing!

For more home staging and preparing to sell tips, contact Creative Concepts and Contracting – specializing in home staging, repairs and updating. Licensed, bonded and insured.

Thinking about putting your home on the market? Don't worry . . .

People will understand you are getting ready to move and see past your "stuff".

We all live busy lives and after all -- you've got to live there while it's still for sale right?

Serious buyers will still be able to see the room sizes, features and the beautiful ammenities you home has to offer -- like this master bedroom fireplace!

Or this fabulous master bath that is so spacious! So don't waste your time and money on home staging -- and everything will be just fine -- less stress for you the homeseller!

APRIL FOOLS!!!!

With more homes on the market buyers can be choosy and most look first on the internet -- your home won't even get a viewing appointment if it doesn't look great in photos!

Not only can buyers not look past your "stuff", but they will remember it -- and not your home!

Home staging highlights the ammenities and shows your home in a beautiful way!

What's the easiest and least stressful way to sell your home? Statistics prove staged homes sell quicker and for more money. A home stager will provide you professional advice, furniture and decor rental and less stress in the process. After all -- getting an offer on your home is nothing to "fool" with -- get a pros advice and on the path to success!

Home staging consultations, color consultations, model homes and occupied staging -- what is it that will help your home compete in a buyers market? Contact Creative Concepts and Contracting to prepare to sell professionally and successfully!

Everything when it comes to competing for buyers!

You only have ten seconds to make an impression when buyers come to see your home. With that type of pressure, how can you prepare for success?

Creative Concepts and Contracting offers professional home staging, licensed repairs and maintenance -- giving home sellers the competitive advantage in any market is our specialty! Contact us for ideas on preparing your home for sale.