is so important, clean/power wash/paint where necessary – it’s the first impression buyers will get and sets the scene for what is inside. Pay attention to around windows/gutters and doorway. Replace old worn/broken hardware and lamps. Replace door mats if old or outdated use only plain/ solid colors. Add seasonal planter for interest and color (can be faux)
WINDOW TREATMENTS
Remove any broken/old/outdated or ill-fitting window treatments. Make sure rods are positioned 10” from the top of the window trim and at least 13” extended either side. Drapes should skim the floor.
RUGS
Replace old/worn rugs where possible, steam clean if in good shape and not outdated. Rugs should be in proportion to the room, at the very least under the front legs of any furniture/bed. Dining room rugs should be big enough so when chairs are pulled out, all 4 legs are still on the rug. Help define large rooms with two rugs to create separate spaces and increase function.
LIGHTEN A ROOM
To lighten any room, use plenty of white/ivory to reflect light (accent pillows, rugs, throws etc.)
ART
Art should be hung at eye level and 57-60” from the floor and 10” above any furniture. Make sure it is centered on the wall.
MASTER BEDROOM
If you only do one thing (apart from declutter) add new bedding in white. Think hotel/spa. Trying to create luxury feel. Home Sense and other discounted furnishing stores have Queen Comforter sets for under $70.
ORNAMENTS & DECORATIVE ITEMS
If you have a lot, de-clutter and only keep a few (if they are decent) to be placed strategically around the living areas. Display any decorative ornaments in groups of three of varying heights. One group per space/surface, create height on the other side with a floral arrangement.
CREATING VIGNETTES
To inspire use of small spaces. A reading nook, somewhere to sit and enjoy a coffee or to brighten a corner and display some art. Use a comfy chair/side table and lamp or a small table with decorative bowl/vase/plant and artwork/mirror above.
ARRANGING FURNITURE
Choose a focal point in the room (window, fireplace, piece of artwork over a console) and group furniture around that. With larger rooms pull furniture away from the wall and create conversation areas. Think about balance/symmetry (size of the pieces should be similar). Also consider the flow of traffic in the space, this will determine placement.
LIGHTING
Many older homes lack high hats or task lighting. Use floor lamps behind a chair or at the end of a sofa, add table lamps to brighten a room and add ambience and warmth. Make sure lamps are not outdated. Shades are inexpensive and easy to change out. Keep colors neutral (ivory/white is best)
I recently went to contract on my listing at 30 Leland St in E Northport. Samantha’s consult helped the homeowners to make inexpensive alternations that significantly changed the home’s appearance. We found a buyer in 3 weeks. Very quick for a house that has a railroad running behind their backyard.
~P. Keisel Coldwell Banker, Huntington NY
I implemented everything Samantha suggested and the living room looks incredible, she accomplished everything I was looking for and more and continued to follow up with me until all the details were complete. Also, she has contractors she works with so when I needed my blinds installed – she found someone incredibly reasonably priced and very professional. My husband is a perfectionist and was over the moon happy with the work. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
~M. Banks Nothport NY
Amazing to work with! Listens to your needs. Worked with Samantha on my home office and I am so pleased with the outcome!
~B. Cuevas, E. Northport NY