Another day, another bargain! We all love a good bargain. And most of us can appreciate good design. Is it possible to have both? Absolutely! Especially today. Many retailers are slashing prices to move inventory. And great finds of previously-owned furniture are plentiful. Personally, I like to mix well-made new pieces with interesting flea market finds. Too many new items and you lack interest. Too many old items and you become the flea market.
I will, however, let you in on a little secret: Over my many years in design, I have learned that you can find high end, new furniture pieces at resale shops such as Goodwill and the Salvation Army stores. Of course, this can be hit or miss and you never know what you might find. For example, while looking for an interesting lamp, I stumbled upon a brand new Taylor King sofa in a Habitat for Humanity Store. I saw the heavily patterned sofa, surrounded by what appeared to be a heavenly glow, sitting in the corner. After lifting the seat cushions (This is where you find the brand label and check for debris) I recognized that this was a good as new, American built, high-end custom sofa with expensive fabric, down seat cushions and exactly the right colors. This sofa may have retailed for over $3,000, but I paid $275, supported a great cause and rec'd a small tax deduction. Of all the pieces in my home today, this sofa is my favorite.
Sometimes great finds are not especially valuable. But they can be a lot of fun! My husband is still not a fan of a pair of chairs that I found at a consignment shop several years ago. I love them. They are a pair of very ornate French Empire reproductions from the 1920's. Black frame, original fabric and heavily gilded swans on each side. They are "King Tut meets Donald Trump." Did I mention that I love them? They are the perfect foil for the otherwise traditional living room. Every room needs a little drama, and these chairs are just that.
Sometimes you just need a little vision. An old walnut bow-front vanity, in much need of repair, will eventually become a hot pink lacquered dressing table for my teenage daughter. Paired with a new Lucite chair and a wall hung mirror she will have the perfect teen version of classic cool. I haven't started the painting yet, but when I do, I'll give you a play by play and you can let me know what you think!
Does having a professional license really matter? That all depends on who you ask. Of course, it matters to those who have the license. We know what it took to earn the license, certification and designation... the hours of study, the money invested, and the knowledge gained. But does it matter to consumers? I don't think so. Realtor or real estate agent, Interior Designer or decorator, Contractor or handyman..it all boils down who costs less. And that is usually the unlicensed, uninsured, unqualified non-professional. I have heard so many professionals in various trades share the same complaint. Non-professionals advertise and bid for the same work, typically charging much less. Whether legally, or illegally, they are able to undercut licensed professionals. Usually they are able to charge less because they do not provide the same protection, through insurance, workers compensation, association memberships, etc. as "true" professionals.
I overheard this conversation standing in line at an Atlanta supermarket:
"I'm thinking about selling my house, but the market is so bad right now. First I have to fix a leak int the basement - and that'll cost me!"
"My wife's cousin's neighbor can fix it for you cheap! He's not really a plumber, but he can get you good deal. And I know a guy who will sell your home for just 2% - think how much you'll save on the commission!"
We hear comments like this all the time. And we are offended when it applies to our own industry. But are we just as guilty when we talk about someone else?
Does it matter? Yes, it matters. Regulations, Licenses and Certifications were created to ensure that rules and guidelines are followed. They are in place to ensure that members and designees follow a code of ethics, professionalism and accountability. In addition to the peace of mind, you have recourse in the event that something goes wrong.
It is imperative that those of us who took the time and invest(ed) the dollars to EARN the certifications, licenses and designations that set us apart support each other. Require your electrical, plumbing, remodeling and building contractors to be licensed and insured, require your Stagers to be accredited and require your agents to be Realtors. Support those who share your commitment to excellence and professionalism.
In our local, state and federal government's push to go green, many are suggesting and even implementing green retrofit requirements. These incentives will require sellers to retrofit things like low flow toilets, low-e windows, upgraded insulation, etc, etc. Many Realtors and sellers are crying foul as they struggle to survive in this crazy economy. Here's the flip side: Most of this legislation has not passed and is still in the discussion phase. Economists are predicting an end to the recession. And if we can recall how big of a role the media played in creating this mess, I have no doubt that they can convince us all that it is once again, okay to spend. We need to create jobs. Many displaced construction workers are finding employment in "green" jobs.
I wonder how many balked at the idea of indoor plumbing, electricity or telephones? I recall the indignation of the construction industry when building codes requiring better windows and greater energy efficiency went into place. Oddly, while it did slightly inflate the cost of new homes, people still bought them. In fact, it is often now a consider that buyers make when selecting a home. The same will hold true for green homes. As energy costs continue to rise - and they will - renewable energy (wind and solar) is expected reach cost parity by 2012. Thanks, in part, to the Stimulus Bill and local incentives, homeowners and sellers can recoup much of the investment.
Studies have found time and time again that people will pay more for green products. We take the time to recycle, look for cars with lower gas mileage and even (when we remember to take them out of the car) use canvas bags instead of plastic. Sellers who take advantage of this move toward greater energy efficiency will see a greater return.
Do you need a professional, experienced interior designer, decorator and home stager on your concierge list? Having moved to Canton this past year, I am building my referral list and I would like the opportunity to include you. Please check out my Active Rain site to see if you and/or your clients would benefit from my services.
Have a great day!
Tracy Coles - Churchill's Interiors
Are you a full-service agent? What does "Full Service" mean to you? Please let me know how you define "Full Service" and if I may quote you in an article.
15 years of experience in model home merchandising, design & real estate staging.
Save Your Clients Money As You Build Great Relationships!
Helping your clients with their flooring needs is certain to secure their trust and loyalty. This value-added service ensures a long term relationship for you. It's that extra edge that pays great dividends over time.
Since flooring is the NUMBER ONE replacement item when a home is bought or sold, ProSource Marietta makes it easy to be an integral part of every flooring decision. You can direct clients to an excellent flooring resource which is sure to have what they want...AND you'll be offering them significant savings on their selections as well.
The next time they or thier friends are in the market to buy or sell again, they'll be sure to remember you!
ProSource Marietta is a Members-Only flooring resource with over 20,000 choices of name-brand carpet, vinyl, laminate, hardwood, ceramic tile, natural stone, porcelain, cushion and more in our well-designed showroom located in Marietta, GA.
Because of our tremendous buying power, we are able to pas significant savings along to you and your clients. We do not sell direct to the public, and our selections and pricing structure are available to the trade only.
Many Real Estate Agents enjoy the privileges and benefits of ProSource membership which include:
Offering your clients 30% - 50% off suggested market prices
Selecting from over 20,000 products
Fostering an excellent relationship with your clients
Offering a value-added service to your clients.
Tremendous Selection, All the Latest Styles & Colors
Sometimes, when you think of wholesale, you think "discontinued, last year's looks." Not so with ProSource! We stock the very latest, up-to-the-minute flooring for every room in the house by famous name brands like Shaw, Mohawk, Anderson, Masland, Tuftex, and lots more...in a wide range of prices and grades.
It's Easy!
Just call me at 770-612-9996 to schedule an appointment for a quick tour.
You'll be impressed with the benefits of membership and our tremendous selection of flooring. While you're here, pick up your membership kit and client referral cards. Membership is only $25 per year. This small fee covers many exclusive benefits and savings that only ProSource offers their members.
We Handle Shipping, Credit Programs, Etc.
After the selections have been made, leave the rest to me. ProSource will handle all of the shipping requirements and ensure quick, on-time delivery.
In addition, ProSource has a business credit program for you as a Member and a client credit program which allows your clients to pay direct.
If your clients need an installer, we also have a list of professional installers for every type of flooring. Just ask us about it.
Please accept my invitation to come by our Showroom and experience ProSource Marietta for yourself.
For more information, call Tracy at 770-612-9996.
We look forward to have you as a ProSource Real Estate Member!
Dominic D'Ambra - Real Estate Investor
I own several short and long term corporate rental properties that needed updating. Tracy worked wonders within my tight budget and timeline. My properties need to look great online and they need to be comfortable for relocating and visiting execs. I was amazed with the results. Tracy is now my design go to girl. January 19, 2009
Janet & Frank Morris
"We were so overwhelmed with the remodeling of our home. Tracy helped us design a beautiful, but practical, kitchen and family room. She worked with us to select paint colors, cabinet stains, granite, faucets and even the appliances. Our family visited for Thanksgiving and were incredibly impressed. We love our home!" November 29, 2008
Stephanie Marshall - Pharmaceuticals Marketing Manager
"I recently moved to Atlanta and, with a full-time career, I did not have the time to create the space that I wanted. I knew as soon as we met that Tracy was the one. She instantly "got" what I wanted for my home. We worked out an investment range, color scheme, and space plan. Tracy did all of the legwork and design prep. The color board she presented was amazing and I accepted every recommendation. Within a few weeks, everything was delivered and installed. And it is even better than I could have imagined. September 16, 2008
Dan Jasmer - Licensed Real Estate Consultant at RE/MAX Excellence
"My business partner and I hired Tracy to stage a high-end home and we were amazed with her ability to stay on schedule and within budget. Not only did she do a fabulous job staging the home, she was able to create a "buzz" about the property by staging the exterior of the home with a high end vehicle and a red carpet entrance for a highly publicized tour of homes. This created a point of reference for prospective buyers and made our home stand out. I can't say enough about her willingness to work with us as well as our sometimes difficult seller!" July 11, 2008
Top qualities: Great Results, Good Value, Creative
Owner at Ideal Spaces by Leah
Tracy is a gifted design professional whose integrity is the cornerstone of her character and dedication to her craft is evident in her work. Tracy is amazing at what she does, balancing the elegance and style of her business with a kind and considerate attitude towards those she's working with." July 12, 2008
P. Christe - CEO and golf junkie
My wife and I bought a 2nd home as a weekend getaway. We had a budget and a dream. Our Realtor suggested that we meet with Tracy to furnish our home as we were out of state. Tracy met with us for a few hours and we were so at ease that we gave her the budget and the go ahead to furnish our unit. Based on a palette of four colors, Tracy choose every piece of furniture and all of the accessories. When we arrived for our first trip we were amazed at the work she had done. The space fit our needs to a tee! We are able to enjoy the unit with our four children or with a group on a golf weekend. Have no fear - Tracy is here! You will not be disappointed!
Rhonda Masotta - Michael Saunders and Co.
I have worked with Tracy as a home owner and as a Realtor. I initially worked with her in the Design Studio. Her professionalism and knowledge made the potentially overwhelming decision making process a piece of cake. She is incredibly adept at working with couples and knows how to get to the crux of the matter. She was able to help us realize our dream. I knew when I saw everthing come together that she had a gift for design and a talent for understanding client needs. As a Realtor, I knew that I could confidently refer her to clients. And when I did, the response was always the same, "Thank you for introducing us to Tracy!"
Lisa Foster - Benchmark Dental
I hired Tracy to assist me with the interior design of my new home. I do not like shopping for furniture, I never know where to put stuff, but I wanted my home to be nice. Tracy came to our home and after meeting our family understood exactly what I was looking for. She was able to work within our budget and create the look that we wanted. She is awesome!
Angela Valdez - Valdez Family Circus
We travel between February and October. As we are only "home" three months of the year, I wanted it to be something very special. We hired Tracy to redecorate our Living Room. It was a really awkward space that we could not figure out what to do with. Tracy put together a space plan and took us shopping. She understood our budget and gave us the most bang for our buck. Our living room is now our favorite place in the house! We couldn't have done it without her.
N. Mascarro
My wife and I hired Tracy to stage our semi-vacant home in Florida. We loved the house, but having several homes across the country, decided to sell one. We had a few new pieces in the home, but Tracy brought in complimentary pieces and accessories to showcase the space. She did such an amazing job, that we decided to keep the house, buy the pieces that she added and sell another home. I was amazed at how effortlessly she was able to tranform the home. And we love it.
ActiveRain Corp. is not responsible for the accuracy of the site's content (which is written by members of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network) and does not endorse the views of the real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and others listed here.
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