The Calgary Home + Interior Design Show was amazing as usual! This year I went to the show on Sunday morning with a good friend. The crowds were light until around noon and we got to chat with some flooring, lighting, closet organization, painters and furniture suppliers. I also purchased a steamer for getting all of those wrinkles out of bedding, shower curtains, towels, etc. Ty was also giving autographs to his dedicated fans – we were a bit late to join the line up. Did you go to the show? What are your thoughts on it?

In 2005 Statistics Canada did a report on smokers in Canada. According to their results, 20% of our population over 15 smokes, this means 80% of of your prospective buyers do not smoke. Smoking can kill a sale (not to mention you). Don’t risk losing your home’s sale by removing ashtrays, cigarette butts as well as any evidence of smoking. Refrain from smoking inside and around your property. Although the weather is getting cooler with the fall, try taking a walk for your cigarette break.

Ionizers and baking soda are great tools to help clean out the odors smoke leaves behind.

References:
Statistics Canada – Canadian Tobacco Use Monitoring Survey (Sept 22, 2010)
Images: iStock Photo (Sept 22, 2010)

86% of buyers rank storage space as an important feature in a home (2005-2006 Maritz Research). So what are some ways to incorporate storage in your home? Check out Better Homes & Gardens post House Tours: A Stylish Home with Practical Storage to get some inspiration.

It still isn’t too late to give your curb appeal a makeover. Beginning next week (according to the Weather Network) it’s supposed to get warmer and sunnier. For a dramatic change, paint your front door. What are the hot colours stagers use for doors? Dark red, grey/brown and black.

(Due to variations in monitors and printers, contact your local paint store for accurate samples).

References: CSP Staging Safe Colors.