I met Nicole, the owner of Simple Elements Home Staging several weeks ago and she showed me first hand how she can transfer a space. She is definitely not afraid of colour and uses carefully thought out details to bring a space to life. Her passion for what she does shines through when she talks about her work. If you've ever wondered about the benefits of home staging, here's your chance to learn about them through Nicole's story.
Business name: Simple Elements Home Staging Number of years in business: 1.5 years Location: Ottawa
www.facebook.com/simpleelementshomestaging/ 1. Describe what you do.
I’m a home stager, interior redesigner and colour consultant. I help people prepare their home for sale so they can maximize their profits on what is their typically their largest investment. For those that prefer to DIY, I do consultations and for those that prefer, we can showcase their home for them. I also offer redesign consultations and provide new solutions for clients wanting to breathe new life and love into their home again. And whether they are moving or not, I make colour recommendations for their space. Colour often trips people up and they’re afraid to venture beyond builder’s beige. I take the fear out of colour.
2. What is it about your work that motivates you?
They say to “do what you love” Well, I love what I do. It has always my passion. Because I love it, I’m always learning, and will continue to do so. The more I know, the more I can help my clients. Knowing that my clients were able sell their home quickly and for more money, or that they’re happy with the space we’ve recreated either through décor or fresh new colour-- for me is the biggest reward.
3. What is the biggest challenge you face when it comes to your work and how do you deal with that challenge?
Home staging is a relatively new concept, and it’s really only been in the last 10 years that it has become more recognized. Because it’s still new, home staging is still met with resistance. Many are not seeing the necessity of preparing their home for sale and staging it. It is the one product we try to sell ‘as is’ and expect the highest return. This is why education is so important to understand why staging is necessary, and but also benefits to the seller for making sure their home is showing its best. Not staging your home is the equivalent to leaving money on the table.
4. What do you want people to know about you and your work?
I think the number one thing that I want people to know is that staging is more than a matter of decluttering and putting flowers on the table. It’s showcasing the home, and about highlighting your home’s best features and minimizing the less desirable ones. We are able to envision as space as it should be and can recommend the best furniture arrangements, appropriate colours, and how to appeal to the buyers on an emotional level so they fall in love with your home. A staged home spends less time on the market, boasts higher returns, and costs less than your first price reduction.
