Home Staging

I am in a writing course and have been using bits of a novel I wrote but still in it’s early stages during the course as a guide. Now we have to write an introduction and synopsis. I am afraid that if I reveal the story somebody will pinch my idea. But it will help me with the novel. Any suggestions?

Copyright your work… that way, no one can steal it.

Then you can discuss it without worrying

I am tasked with selling my mother’s house now that she has gone into a nursing home. The realtor is insisting that I complete a long shopping/decorating list to "stage" the house for sale. I had assumed it would be sold empty, after a few necessary repairs and upgrades.

The idea of staging completely throws off my timeline in terms of having an estate sale to sell furniture, etc., having the house professionally cleaned by a service, having the hardwood floors refinished, etc., etc., etc. It makes a really complicated, stressful job a whole lot worse for me.

Is staging really necessary or can I just tell her I want to sell it empty? I’m not looking to soak every possible dollar out of the sale, I just want to get it done.

Thank you.

They are only suggesting what they think will sell the house more quickly. You are the seller and in control and remember they are working for you. So do what you want to do, if they insist, get another agent.
Good luck.

I’m just at the signing contract stage of buying a house, but the vendor has now – after 6 weeks, decided she wants to buy a house (she previously was planning on renting) & wants to tie it all in…meaning my move in date will be delayed. I’m living temporarily with a friend after giving up my rented accom & am trapped in a nightmare! Should I threaten to pull out? Though I don’t actually want to! Is there any way of hurrying her along? Would really appreciate some advice! Thanks

I am an agent and this does happen quite regularly. Legally there is nothing that you can do….The Vendor is reliant on your cash for her onward purchase tho, so technically you hold the cards. I would explain your position to the agent and make it clear that this was not the agreement and that you cannot wait a possible 2-3 months longer. You may have to threaten to pull out, but beware if the property is saleable and she knows this, she may call your bluff and try for a new flexible purchaser!

Are there necessary certifications and/or training? What else do I need to know about this business? Any books that can be recommended? Websites? Thank you!

You need to know how to explain to people that their kids’ art has to come off the fridge, and painting over the purple wall in the living room is well worth the money. Anyone can pack up people’s stuff and clean off shelves and garages. Psychology and tact are the skills that are the hardest to master, especially when it comes to religious and/or ethnic themes and items. Negotiation skills will serve you well, and an understanding of different personality types, biases, and traditions.

Connections with realtors will be almost mandatory. Work for free for 6-8 homes to get some experience and references if you do not already have a customer base that is easily reachable.

If you are referring to scaffolding to be able to work safely on heights then you can call your local rent-all centre…they will deliver for you.