Staging Properties - News from the Legal Side of C.A.R.

As Realtors, we have access to and are often reminded by our legal team of potential pitfalls. At issue of late is staging and how to do it without misconception for the buyer or putting the seller at risk. We know that staging is important to show a home in it's best light and we always recommend it if the property would benefit. Knowing the limits and specifics of staging is where you make it work to your benefit. Read on!

Staging Properties

Whether it’s in the interest of getting listings or just providing good customer service, staging properties has become increasingly commonplace. Staging can be done in different ways, but generally refers to preparing the home to look its best for photographs, videos and showings. When staging is to be done, there are certain issues that brokers should be aware of when they offer staging services to their clients:
Purchase Agreement and Escrow Considerations Paragraph 9B(2) of the California Residential Purchase Agreement and Joint Escrow Instructions (C.A.R. Form RPA) lists certain items as automatically included with the sale of the property. Some of those, specifically window coverings, “which includes blinds, curtains, drapery, shutters or any other materials that cover any portion of the window,” could be a part of staging materials. Ceiling fans and water features/fountains are also automatically included, as are air conditioners, awnings, pool nets and pool cover or fireplace inserts, gas logs and grates. A buyer viewing staged property may not know whether items, such as those listed above that exist at time of showing, are owned by seller or placed by others as part of staging the home. The buyer could contractually expect them to be part of the sale.

To help address this issue, the final sentence of Paragraph 9B(2) reminds Sellers (and their agents) of the
importance of excluding any items referenced in the contract that are not actually owned by seller:
Note: If Seller does not intend to include any item specified as being included above because it is not owned by Seller, whether placed on the Property by Agent, stager or other third party, the item should be listed as being excluded in paragraph 3P or excluded by Seller in a counteroffer.

Virtual Staging and Risk of False Advertising

In recent years, a new type of staging has started taking place. Often referred to as “virtual staging,” this is the practice of digitally inserting, or deleting, furniture and other items into photographs or videos of the property  for marketing purposes to help a buyer envision what the property could look like. The advantage of virtual staging is that you can avoid all the issues addressed above – the items are not actually in the property, so you don’t have to worry about them being moved in or out of the property, or buyers wanting them included with the sale. But other issues may apply.

Realtors need to use caution and not engage in false or misleading advertising when using virtual staging in their marketing. Digitally changing furniture or fixtures is one thing, but the property itself, inside or outside, or the view, should not be digitally altered in any way that could mislead a potential buyer – without a clear, explicit, warning or notice about the alteration. For example, “Here is what the yard could look like with all brush and debris removed.” Remember, Article 12 of the NAR Code of Ethics states that “REALTORS® shall be honest and truthful in their real estate communications and shall present a true picture in their advertising, marketing, and other representations.”

Charging Clients for Staging Services

Some brokers include staging services as part of their listing package, while other brokers may charge extra for it as an optional, add-on service. Either way, the services to be rendered and the amount to be paid (if any) should be agreed upon in writing. Any special considerations – such as what happens if the listing expires or is canceled without the property ever being sold – should be addressed in the agreement as well.

Copyright© 2022 CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.). All rights reserved. August 25, 2022.
 

5 Inspiring Home Design and Remodeling Trends for 2021

 

5 Inspiring Home Design and Remodeling Trends for 2021

 

We’ve all spent a lot more time at home over the past year. And for many of us, our homes have become our office, our classroom, our gym—and most importantly, our safe haven during times of uncertainty. So it’s no surprise to see that design trends for 2021 revolve around soothing color palettes, cozy character, and quiet retreats.

 

Even if you don’t have immediate plans to buy or sell your home, I advise my clients to be mindful of modern design preferences when planning a remodel or even redecorating. Over-personalized or unpopular renovations could lower your property’s value. And selecting out-of-style fixtures and finishes could cause your home to feel dated quickly.

 

To help inspire your design projects this year, I've rounded up five of the hottest trends.  Keep in mind, not all of these will work well in every house. If you plan to buy, list, or renovate your property, give me a call. I can help you realize your vision and maximize the impact of your investment.

1. Uplifting Colors

 

Colors are gravitating toward warm and happy shades that convey a sense of coziness, comfort, and well being. This year’s palettes draw from earthy hues, warm neutrals, and soothing blues and greens.

 

While white and gray are still safe options, expect to see alternative neutrals become increasingly popular choices for walls, cabinets, and furnishings in 2021. For a fresh and sophisticated look, try one of these 2021 paint colors of the year:

 

●      Aegean Teal (coastal blue) by Benjamin Moore

●      Urbane Bronze (brownish-gray) by Sherwin-Williams

●      Soft Candlelight (muted yellow) by Valspar

 

On the opposite end of the spectrum, indigo, ruby, sapphire and plum are showing up on everything from fireplace mantels and floating shelves to fabrics and home accessories. These classic, rich hues can help bring warmth, depth, and a touch of luxury to your living space.

 

To incorporate these colors, designers recommend using the “60-30-10 Rule.” Basically, choose a dominant color to cover 60% of your room. For example, your walls, rugs, and sofa might all be varying shades of beige or gray. Then layer in a secondary color for 30% of the room. This might include draperies and accent furniture. Finally, select an accent color for 10% of your room, which can be showcased through artwork and accessories.

 

2. Curated Collections

 

After a decade of minimalism, there’s been a shift towards highly-decorative and personalized interiors that incorporate more color, texture, and character. Clearly-defined styles (e.g., mid-century modern, industrial, modern farmhouse) are being replaced by a curated look, with furnishings, fixtures, and accessories that appear to have been collected over time.

 

This trend has extended to the kitchen, where atmosphere has become as important as functionality. The ubiquitous all-white kitchen is fading in popularity as homeowners opt for unique touches that help individualize their space. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, consider mixing in other neutrals—like gray, black, and light wood—for a more custom, pieced-together look. And instead of a subway tile backsplash, check out zellige tile (i.e., handmade, square Moroccan tiles) for a modern alternative with old-world flair.

 

3. Re-imagined Living Spaces

 

The pandemic forced many of us to rethink our home design. From multipurpose rooms to converted closets to backyard cottages, we’ve had to find creative ways to manage virtual meetings and school. And designers expect these changes to impact the way we live and work for years to come.

 

For example, some home builders are predicting the end of open-concept floor plans as we know them. Instead, buyers are searching for cozier spaces with more separation and privacy. Cue the addition of alcoves, pocket doors, and sliding partitions that enable homeowners to section off rooms as needed.

 

The necessity of a home office space is also here to stay. But what if you don’t have a dedicated room? Alternative work spaces have become increasingly popular. In fact, one of the biggest trends on Pinterest this year is the “cloffice”— essentially a spare closet turned home office. Searches for “home library design” and “bookshelf room divider” are on the rise, as well.

 

4. Staycation-Worthy Retreats

 

With travel options limited right now, more homeowners are turning their vacation budgets into staycation budgets. Essentially, recreate the resort experience at home—and enjoy it 365 days a year!

 

Bedrooms should provide a soothing sanctuary for rest and relaxation. But this year, minimalist decor and muted colors are giving way to bolder statement pieces. To create a “boutique hotel” look in your own bedroom, start with a large, upholstered headboard in a rich color or pattern. Layer on organic linen bedding and a chunky wool throw, then complete the look with a pair of matching bedside wall lights.

 

Carry those vacation-vibes into your bathroom with some of the top luxury upgrades for 2021. Curbless showers and freestanding tubs continue to be popular choices that offer a modern and spacious feel, and large-format shower tiles with minimal grout lines make clean up a breeze. Add a floating vanity and aromatherapy shower head for the ultimate spa-like experience.

 

5. Outdoor Upgrades

 

From exercise to gardening to safer options for entertaining, the pandemic has led homeowners to utilize their outdoor spaces more than ever. In fact, backyard swimming pool sales skyrocketed in 2020, with many installers reporting unprecedented demand. But a new pool isn’t the only way homeowners can elevate their outdoor areas this year.

 

The home design website Houzz recently named 2021 “the year of the pergola.” They’re a relatively quick and affordable option to add shade and ambiance to your backyard. Another hot trend? Decked-out, custom playgrounds for exercising (and occupying) the youngest family members who may be missing out on school and extracurricular activities.

 

But don’t limit your budget to the backyard. Landscapers are reporting an increase in front yard enhancements, including porch additions and expanded seating options. These “social front yards” enable neighbors to stay connected while observing social-distancing guidelines.

 

            DESIGNED TO SELL

 

Are you contemplating a remodel? Want to find out how upgrades could impact the value of your home? Buyer preferences vary greatly by neighborhood and price range. I can share my insights and offer tips on how to maximize the return on your investment. And if you’re in the market to sell, I can run a Comparative Market Analysis on your home to find out how it compares to others in the area. Contact me to schedule a free consultation!