Highlights from the High Point Spring Furniture Market

Last week was the High Point Spring Furniture Market. How do you describe 12 million square feet of furniture, accessories, textiles, and gifts? The first thing that I do is look for trends. Last market, in October, showed a lot of black and white, tons of green (both environmentally and the color-wise), and metallic accents everywhere! This market was not much different. The use of acid yellow has become popular. There were still metallic accents with the predominant choice being polished chrome or nickle. Mirrored case goods are still strong as is white lacquer finishes. My favorite venue this market was Global Views ( www.globalviews.com). The lighting and creative displays took my breath as did the large selection of accessories offered. Another favorite stop is Guildmaster (www.decorize.com). This collection of weathered and aged furniture and accessories always offers a feast for the senses. Christy Proctor, a former designer on the TV show Trading Spaces, was there introducing her new line of lamps. Christy was very personable and we enjoyed both her and her new product line.

Speaking of celebrities, Candice Olsen, of HGTV's Devine Design, was there introducing her line of case goods at Revco International (www.revcointernational.com). She is just as cute in person as she is on TV and my mom, who accompanied me, was tickled to speak to her. Her line of furniture is smart, transitional and like you would expect it to be if you watch her show.

As always, my favorite upholstery line, Pearson Company (www.pearsonco.com) had a beautiful showroom and we accomplished a lot there. Design Masters, known for their beautiful dining chairs, continues to increase the number of dining tables offered. They have some really lovely tables. And finally, my favorite new discovery is Pablo Mekis Artisan Pillows. These pillows are hand embroidered pillows from Chile. They are offered in linen, wool, silk, and cotton. These pillows are one of a kind art pieces and are just fabulous! Go see them at www.pablomkis.com.

Home Staging in a Tough Real Estate Market

Later today I will be staging a home that is getting ready to be put on the market in Rock Hill, SC. I am finding that my staging business has increased since the slow down began in Real Estate sales. In my business, the realtor hires and pays for my fee as listing incentive. These savvy realtors realize that they need an edge to make their listings stand out among the very crowded field. National statistics show that a staged home will sell quicker and for an average of 6% more money than a non staged home.

My goal when I stage a home is three fold. First, we work on making the space look as large as possible. That means getting rid of unnecessary furniture and items that take up floor space. Storage units are often used as most people house more furniture and junk than their homes can really accomodate. The second goal is to de-personalize the home. Buyers cannot image how they would live in a home if the lifestyle of the current owner is in the way. When I stage a home we reduce the amount of family photo's, religous art and artifacts, alchohol and bar equipment and the like. Finally, we look for ways to add charm. Fresh flowers, clear kitchen counters, pretty towels in the bathrooms, well made beds are all ways to give the buyer something to remember. Of the last three homes that I have staged, two have sold within a month, the third has had an offer that was refused.