Five Mistakes to Avoid When Doing Your Home or Business Construction Project

Having a project done at your home or office can be a disruptive event costing more than just the construction costs--not to mention time lost if it is your business, or just the stress of having construction workers in your home for days or weeks. Here are some things to pay attention to:

1. Get a detailed estimate with price breakdown. Ask for this if you don't get it. Become your own advocate. 2. Do advanced research regarding the costs. Pricing will vary depending on the type of products and the details and extent of the work. Square footage prices usually don't apply. You don't want your contractor gauging you, but you don't want them to go out of business during the project either! 3. Get your contractor's credentials. Ask for proof of insurance and license number. Go to: http://www.cslb.ca.gov/.

4. Make sure you are given a detailed schedule. Good communication starts with a clear understanding of how long things will take. Know from the beginning when delays could take place. Ask questions if something is taking too long. There should be a logical explanation. Delays with product orders,etc. 5. Communication during the project is important. The lay person doesn't always understand the construction process. There are many things that can happen that can take you by surprise--for instance, electrical wiring may be in a different spot than what was expected or you could find leaking pipes or mold when you open up a wall. These things could cause a change to your plans and costs. Make sure you talk in the beginning about how you want to be contacted regarding the unexpected or to update progress. The goal is to avoid surprises as much as possible although it is almost impossible to avoid them entirely. But if you do these five things you will be on your way to a smooth running project.

Kitchen Remodel - Part 2: Finished at Last

 

If I were designing this remodel for anybody else, it would take about three weeks.  Maybe a month. Homeowner do-it-yourself projects always take longer. Projects that architects do for themselves run on geological time.  When I mentioned to a colleague that we had been eight months without a stove, he said his own kitchen remodel had taken four years. I probably should have asked why it took so long but I was struck dumb by the idea of four years without a kitchen.

The highlights of the kitchen remodel were when we hired professionals to install the floor and counters. The rest of the time progress inched along as we grabbed an hour before or after work. Weekends we spent wearing our oldest clothes and covered in construction dust. The biggest job was prep for painting as we mudded, filled, caulked, and sanded the walls and trim. Now we know why the professionals just tear everything out and put up new.

I’ll let the photographs tell the story. On the left is the kitchen the way it was the day we bought the house. On the right is the remodeled kitchen. Same cabinets with new paint, reconfigured to accommodate new refrigerator and added dishwasher. The cabinet color was inspired by the color of the paper towel holder in the old kitchen. We call it 1950’s Cadillac blue, complete with chrome fittings and white upholstery – I mean counters. The Marmoleum floor tiles give a nod to the 50's black and white tile kitchen floors.

It is difficult to say what made the biggest difference. I think it was repairing and taking the board off the window and letting in the sunlight.

We are still getting used to where we’ve put things in the new kitchen. And loving the new dishwasher!

New member update: Carol Graves

Women On Fire is pleased to introduce our newest member - Carol Graves!

Carol has over twenty-three years of general contracting experience of light commercial and residential projects. Before starting Abbott Lain Construction her past significant positions were Vice President, of ACG Construction, Inc., a commercial construction company and President of Bayhill Builders, Inc. a residential home building business. She is a 27 year resident of the San Francisco Bay Area and California native.

Carol enjoys the challenges of the construction business. If it is transforming a neglected property to something beautiful, or building out an empty shell to house your new business she knows how important time, attention to detail, and cost is to clients.

Abbott Lain is a woman owned company and holds a certification from The Women’s Business Enterprise Council. Carol is also certified by the EPA for Lead Renovation.

Please be sure to visit the company website www.abbottlain.com or follow Abbott Lain Construction on facebook.

Stay tuned for future blog posts from Carol Graves.

put together with a pop of red...

what better way to look "holiday"ish...than with a nice pop of red...absolutely loved these shots from the lucky magazine december issue last year...try adding a red clutch or red gloves...red shoes maybe? ok...i'll stop...i can go on and on and on about a pop of color...especially when we are talking red...

will you be sporting red this holiday season?

scanned by moi


scanned by moi

New member update: Sara Haller

Women on Fire is happy to introduce our newest member: Sara Haller



As an experienced entrepreneur, Sara is excited and grateful to partner with two billionaires from Malaysia who are bringing a new business concept to our community marketplaces! Sara's passion for improving people's personal health and helping them build residual passive income is fulfilled with the eCosway business model. She focuses on working with people who want to spend less and make more money. Sara's ultimate goal is to show you how to use your shopping money effectively on cutting edge high science products from around the world - at low price points - products you use in your everyday life.

You can find Sara on twitter: successwithsara or visit her website www.ecosway.com/ushome/US130735A

Stay tuned for future blog posts from Sara Haller!

5 Ways to Make Your Wedding Unique

Photographing weddings is an amazing job because I get to see all the planning, thoughts, and dreams come to life for one couple on a very special day. It’s also amazing to see how people make their wedding unique and personal to them. Here are 5 was to make your wedding unique to you.

1. Desert Table

A past bride who loves white chocolate incorporated it into her wedding with a magnificent white chocolate fountain. With fruit, marshmallows, and an array of other snacks to dunk into the fountain it was a crowd pleaser!


2. Centerpieces and Flowers

Designing centerpieces from her Mother’s garden not only allowed them to be unique but also gave a personal touch to a past bride’s wedding. In addition, the bridal bouquets were created from the same garden.


3. Destination with Meaning

Hawaii held a special place for one of my bridal couples so much so they decided to get married there. The ceremony was held on a boat and a close group of friends and family attended the wedding.



4. Wagon Baby Flower Girl

One bride wanted her niece to be included in the wedding as a flower girl, however she wasn’t quite ready to walk yet. Therefore, they put had her in a vintage wagon that was pulled by one of the groomsmen and a safety harness kept her safe and upright in the wagon.



5. Personalize Your Wedding Cake

In a very classic, elegant wedding one wedding couple decided to personalize their cake with their first and last name. It also announced to all of their guests, in a unique way, that the bride was taking her husband’s last name.


Rhonda Giedt Photography
www.PhotosByRhonda.com

versatility...

...the ability to take a garment in your wardrobe...mix and match with a variety of wardrobe fundamentals...this then equals...value...and by mixing and matching a variety of wardrobe fundamentals...it doesn't mean you can use it to dry the dog and polish the silverware...but you may be able to wear a piece to the office and then on to a blind date that nite with just a change of jewelry and/or shoes...

always look for colors that fit into the basic palette of your wardrobe...look for classic design and style that is consistent with your own...look for fabrics that are seasonless...tropical wools and medium weight cottons...for example...seasonal fabrics...like linen or velvet...may be well worth the investment...but they won't necessarily be appropriate year round...

it almost becomes like a game...how many outfits can you prepare out of one piece of garment...try for a casual...then a work appropriate...and then an evening look...the more you do it...the easier it becomes...and then you really start maximizing your purchases...

and if this seems like too much of a challenge...i can help!

elena daciuk
fabulous finds
wardrobe stylist
415.577.6133
fabulous.finds@yahoo.com

photo source

New member update: Shelley Bond

Women on Fire is happy to introduce our newest member: Shelley Bond

Shelley Bond is the owner of BEADJOUX...slightly eccentric handmade jewelry, which she began in 1994. She has never been a person who fits cleanly into categories and her varied jewelry designs demonstrate that. Shelley makes one-of-a-kind beaded jewelry and sculptures. She sells her jewelry at customer-hosted parties, various art and networking events, at Silicon Valley Open Studios, at an open studio each December in Belmont CA, and is available to design and make custom jewelry. Her materials are gold and sterling wire, seed beads, contemporary and vintage beads, found and recycled objects, shells and semi-precious stones. Both her large and small jewelry pieces have a definite point of view. You can see her work on www.shelleybond.com or follow her on facebook.

Stay tuned for future blog posts from Shelley Bond!

Do You Own a Small Business?



Photo from Istockphoto.com

Business Insurance 101

You’ve achieved your dream of owning a business. But as you know, the boundless opportunities of business ownership come with plenty of risk. When you’re confident that your organization’s people, property and revenue are safeguarded from the unexpected, you can focus on what’s most important—running your business.

Your Business Insurance Options Explained

Your day-to-day operations are complex; understanding business insurance doesn’t have to be. There are coverage options available to protect just about every aspect of your business from employee injury to natural disasters. Some insurance is required by law and others by business associates, such as lenders and landlords. Obtaining the right type and amount of insurance for your business will help you avoid gaps in coverage where you need it most.



Photo from Istockphoto.com

At a minimum, your business should have:
•Business Property Insurance that can protect your business by funding repair or replacement of damaged physical assets when disasters such as fire, windstorms, hail or vandalism strike.

•Business Liability Insurance that can protect your business against financial losses resulting from claims of injury or property damage caused by you or your employees and your products or services.

•Workers' Compensation Insurance that can satisfy your employees’ medical needs in the event of an accident or disease and make a quick return to work possible, while removing lawsuit potential by current or former employees.

•Business Auto Insurance that can get you on the road again quickly after an accident and ensure your business is protected against losses from injuries to other drivers, passengers and pedestrians for which you and your employees are liable.



Photo from Istockphoto.com

•Business Crime Insurance that can provide your business with protection from fraud, theft, forgery or robbery.
Additional insurance options your business may need include:

•Employment Practices Liability Insurance that can cover your business if discrimination, sexual harassment or wrongful termination claims are made by present, former or future employees.

•Life Insurance for Business Owners that can help you plan for business succession, survive the loss of a key employee or partner and retain/reward your top people.

•Retirement and Benefits for Business Owners that can secure your financial future and that of your employees.

•Umbrella Coverage that can make sure your business is shielded from the effects of potentially ruinous lawsuits with additional liability coverage.

•Bailee Coverage to protect you and your business if damage is done to customer’s goods, including jewelry and clothing.

•Transportation and cargo Coverage to cover your company if goods are damaged or lost when being transported by one of your vehicles or common and contract carriers.

•Spoilage Coverage in the event that perishable goods are spoiled due to a mechanical breakdown or power outage.

•Non-Owned Auto Coverage if an employee is involved in an auto accident while driving a personal automobile on company business.

Before You Purchase

There is no such thing as one-size-fits-all business insurance coverage. Your business is as unique as you are. After carefully reviewing your assets and potential risks, your Farmers agent will work closely with you to build a tailored insurance solution that meets the specific needs of your business. What’s more, your agent will take time to help you understand every aspect of the policy.

If You're Already Covered

You’ve made a sound choice to protect your organization and employees with business insurance. However, your business has specific needs which may change over time. Reviewing your policy annually makes certain your coverage options continue to fully protect your assets. When in doubt, contact a Farmers agent for help. Farmers also offers lines of insurance for many aspects of your life, both professional and personal. Ask your agent about personal coverage options that can complement your business insurance policy.


Posted by Virginia Trowbridge
Farmers -Trowbridge Insurace Agency
http://www.trowbridgeins.com/

The Anatomy of a Home Stage

I was recently called to a home in the Sharon Heights area of Menlo Park. The sellers were downsizing and needed help preparing their home to place on the market. I was hired to stage the interior and help with the exterior and landscaping.

As you can see from the before pictures the interior was painted white. The furniture was contemporary and the owners had quite a bit of art. I decided to paint the interior a warmer neutral color and to accent the fireplace wall with a darker color to accentuate the stone fireplace surround. The fireplace is the focal point of the room and the stone surround had beautiful colors in it.

I kept the furnishings neutral with a monochromatic look. When using a monochromatic look it is important to bring in differing textures, such as a shag rug, chrome accents and velvet upholstery.  I utilized some organic elements such as the seashell collection on the coffee table, which I mixed with large reflective globes, which are actually large Christmas balls turned so that you cannot see the attached hanger.

In the master bedroom I again painted a warm neutral and accented the wall that the bed is on to pop off the bedding. The lamps are jewel encrusted which again brought in some texture and shine. The result is dramatic and is optimum for the virtual tour marketing pieces.

This home sold with multiple offers and $150K over listing price within days. I credit the owners with allowing me to design what I felt was best for the home.

Hooked on Modern

My introduction to architectural design idea websites was through Houzz and Remodelista who both had booths at the Dwell Conference in Los Angeles this year. I have to say they have completely changed my life! I’m not ready to ditch the bookcases full of design books, but I could definitely lose the magazines.

What is the best part about design websites? The search function! The possibilities are endless. No more leafing through back issues of magazine to find that special image you saw when you first read the magazine.   

Design Idea Websites

www.houzz.com is a great image resource of over 200,000 architectural images that you can sort by type, style, and location. Exclusively showcasing residential architecture.

www.remodelista.com is good for finding contemporary design products.

www.dornob.com has architecture and home products, including a category for prefab houses (which counts as both architecture AND product)

http://inhabitat.com is a blog devoted to the future of design, tracking the innovations in technology, practices and materials that are pushing architecture and home design towards a smarter and more sustainable future.

www.dwell.com is an offshoot of Dwell Magazine, an established resource for contemporary architecture and products.

www.wallpaper.com is the online presence of Wallpaper Magazine for design, interiors, fashion, art, lifestyle

www.padstyle.com is a décor blog with posts on stylish contemporary furnishings for your home. Check out their posting “top 25 interior design & furniture blogs” for even more idea sites!

Modern Design Shopping

When you get tired of West Elm and Design Within Reach check out a few of these websites:

www.2modern.com features modern furniture and lighting

www.ducducnyc.com sells modern furniture for babies and children

www.switchmodern.com has contemporary and classic modern design products, with a category for pet furniture and accessories!

www.re-modern.com features sustainable modern design, and gives 1% of their profits to environmental causes

http://grassrootsmodern.com promotes contemporary design at affordable prices

How inspiring to see all these new products and ideas!

Driving While Distracted

Here are the top 10 excuses the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia compiled of local drivers who were caught using handheld phone devices while driving:



Photo from Istockphoto.com



1. This is a bogus law.

2. It was my boss on the phone – I had to answer it.

3. I wasn’t using it – I just like to hold it.
4. Sorry officer, I didn’t see you trying to pull me over because I was on my phone.
5. But it was an emergency call to my wedding planner.
6. My Bluetooth died.
7. Driver: I’m using my speakerphone. Police officer: No, you’re holding your phone in one hand and         steering with the other.
8. I’m not driving; I was stopped at a red light.
9. I wasn’t talking, I was checking my messages.
10. I was just checking the time.

Family Portraits: Maria

Family portraits are always fun. I get to see how brothers and sisters joke around with each other and the bonds that they have. It also has the ability the turn into a very fun giggle session. Below is some of the family portraits from a session Maria (the Mom) wanted before they all grow up.




Thanks for a really fun session and for all the giggles…I can’t wait to show the individual photos we took too (hint it’s a a post coming up later in the month).

Rhonda Giedt Photography
www.PhotosByRhonda.com

Kitchen Remodel - Part 1: Best Intentions

It’s somewhat misleading to call this Part 1, since we’re well into our third year of fixing up our house. I’ll confess right up front that we bought this house because we didn’t want to tear out perfectly good materials to make it what we wanted. This house really needed some fixing. Think boarded up windows, bathroom floor falling into the crawl space, and retaining walls like a Civil War battlefield. After taking care of the really urgent stuff like heat, light, hot water, and a fully functioning bathroom, we’re finally getting to second-tier projects like the kitchen.

It started with the rusty white metal cabinets – classic for our 1950’s subdivision. We decided to send the cabinet doors out to be powder coated, intending to paint the boxes ourselves. With a little re-arranging of the existing cabinets we could even add a dishwasher. Original concept: a super-minimal face-lift remodel until we decided what we really wanted to do with the kitchen. Budget price: about $1,300 including the new dishwasher, if we did most of the work ourselves.

Well, the cabinet doors came back from the powder coater looking so fabulous that we just had to send the boxes out as well. Caught up in a wave of enthusiasm, that decision led to a surprising cascade of things that we really should do at the same time. I mentioned that if the cabinets were being removed we would probably want new counters. New counters and cabinets would make the old floor look shabby, so we would need to replace that as well. The kitchen floor extends into the pantry, hall and half-bath. Ken decided that while the cabinets were off the walls we should also take the drywall off and insulate the two exterior walls. Once the drywall came off I noticed the knob-and-tube wiring which had to be removed before we could insulate. Revised budget: slightly less than $10,000.

installing insulation

Here’s a photo after the demolition as we’re installing insulation. We’re down to the bare studs and sub-floor. The refrigerator is on the back porch, plugged in through the kitchen window (you can see the cord) along with the stove and the newly painted cabinets. We’ve got the dining room set up as a combination kitchen/eating area with microwave, toaster oven, and rice cooker, to supplement the barbeque outside. A dish-washing station is set up at the laundry sink in the garage. This is actually luxury compared to the first two months we lived in this house without refrigerator, stove, or central heating. And the next six months after we got the refrigerator and before we got a stove.

This time we’re much better prepared. We know more people in the neighborhood and we’re not shy about fishing for dinner invitations. One neighbor is going away next week and has even offered to let us use her house to make food that we can freeze and eat later.  

Next week:  Part 2: Execution

let us neutralize...

happy first day of fall...hard to believe with all the lovely weather we are experiencing here in the san francisco bay area...but although the weather is screaming summer...i have been devouring fall fashion for a few months now...and one of the big trends for fall...the different neutrals...so...let's see if we could get some "new" neutrals in our wardrobe...

many people need to let go of the head-to-toe-black mentality...one piece of black is stellar...four pieces of black is...well stale...the number one thing i do with every client is get them out of black and introduce them to the alternatives of other neutrals...such as charcoal grey and chocolate brown...

i think that black is a fantastic neutralizer...but from head to toe...it just...well...makes me think of a mourning period..especially if you're on your way past forty...buy shades of cream...sand...and stone and mix them in with your grey and slate...when you pepper black in as statement pieces...well...you look pretty well put together...if you love jewel tones...they will fuse smartly with these two color palettes...

what other combinations are out there? try a creamy sand and stone palette...while on the other end of the color wheel...there is the beautiful silvery slate greys...i find that drained color...a softer version of a vibrant hue...stays fresh looking...if you wear the drained sister palette of your favorite bright color...you will not tire of it as quickly and it will last longer in your wardrobe...

so come on...let's neutralize...

Avoiding Contractor Problems

Getting ready to remodel? Anticipating the common contractor problems and heading them off before they happen is the best approach. Here are the most common complaints:

1. Contractor doesn’t return your phone calls asking them to give you a cost proposal for the work. This usually means they are too busy, or they don't really want the job. Don't even start working with this one.

2. Contractor gives a flaky and incomplete estimate for the work to be done, making you uncertain what is and isn't covered in the price. Make sure you are comfortable that you know what is going to be done and what you are paying for, before hiring your contractor.

3. Contractor doesn’t show up on the day they say they're coming, and then they show up on a day when you aren't expecting them. If this is a problem for you, make sure you are clear up front that not showing up and not calling is grounds for dismissal.

4. Contractor doesn’t organize their material ordering, so that critical components don’t show up when needed. This can delay construction and last-minute substitutions aren’t ever as good as what you really wanted. One way to avoid this is to order all the exotic granite slabs, light fixtures, appliances, and plumbing fixtures yourself in advance.

5. Contractor doesn’t look at the drawings or doesn’t understand the drawings, so they just do what they want rather than asking what you had in mind. Drawings are part of the construction contract. If the contractor builds or installs something that is not consistent with drawings you can insist that he re-do the work.

6. Contractor doesn’t let you know before they do the work what that little change you requested is going to cost. Extra costs should always be discussed and agreed to before the work is done. Well-organized contractors will have you sign change orders before starting the work. This eliminates nasty surprises on your final bill.

7. Contractor loses interest near the end of the job (or they've already started the next job), so it's difficult to get them to address the little details that need adjusting or touching up. Never pay the contractor in full before his work is done. You want to hold back a large enough sum of money so that he has incentive to finish up and get paid. For small jobs this might be 50% of the total cost, or several thousand dollars at a minimum.

On larger projects your architect will help you anticipate problems, periodically check the construction to make sure it conforms to the drawings, and help keep the job running smoothly.

my closet the crayola crayon box...

remember getting that brand new box of crayola crayons? i'm sure that is where my love of color started...and truth be told...what i love about my closet...is that when i open it up...it reminds me of a box of crayons...with all the beautiful colors...

so...i want you to think of your closet as your box of crayons...when you look into your closet...notice what items are sitting right next to each other...

there might be a multi-colored striped shirt nudging a chocolate brown chiffon skirt...and they are both screaming..."wear me, wear me! wear us together!" ok...maybe not...but let's pretend...ok?

i cannot tell you how often i grab pieces from my client's closets and create an outfit they never knew they had...it was right under their nose the whole time...

so...let your creative juices flow...and pair together two or three pieces you would have never thought of...

and if this is something that you don't have time for...because there are just other things you would rather be doing...or you just don't understand the art of putting together pieces...consider hiring a wardrobe consultant...it may be...the best money you've spent in a while...

there is nothing more "freeing" then being able to go to your closet...and in 5 minutes...know what you are going to wear...each and every day...usually...the pieces are already in your closet...you just need a little help in putting them together...

i can help...give me a call...

elena daciuk
wardrobe consultant/stylist

fabulous.finds@yahoo.com
415.577.6133

My Utility Bills Are Too High!

Q: My utility bills are simply too high. Do you have any suggestions?

A: According to the U. S. Energy Information Administration, the average person spends 44% of his or her annual energy bill on heating and cooling, 25% on appliances, 14% on hot water, 10% on refrigeration and 7% on lighting.

Ovens, dishwashers and clothes dryers make your air conditioner work harder. If you are not in the house during the day, adjust your thermostat to allow higher daytime temperatures. According to the Energy Star program, that may cut your electric bill by up to $20 a month. Another suggestion is to replace an older refrigerator with a more energy-efficient one. To learn how much energy your refrigerator is using, go to www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=refrig.calculator.

Watch for computers, DVD and DVR players, microwave ovens, video games, cell phone chargers and other appliances and devices that have transformers or a "standby" mode. The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory reports that 5–10% of your electricity may be wasted this way. Connect these appliances to power strips and turn them off. Don't charge your cell phones, electric shavers or other chargeable devices longer than necessary.

Save money by getting out of the house to catch a breeze while picnicking under a tree at your local park. Hang out at the air-conditioned ice cream parlor. Lower your bills while you enjoy your days.

Sick of Renting? Take this pill...

2011 is a great year to buy a home!

Home Buying Class

Saturday August 27, 2011

Burlingame, Ca

RSVP and More Details Here

Class Topics:

• Advantages of buying a home in 2011
• How the Stimulus Plan benefits first time homebuyers
• Tax Credits available for home ownership
• Owning vs renting comparison
• State of the San Mateo County real estate market
• Current mortgage interest rates and programs available
• Steps for a successful home or condo purchase
• Differences between owning a condo, townhome or single family home
• Steps to finance your home purchase
• Advantages of owning a home on the San Francisco Peninsula
• Survey of advice from other First Time Homebuyers
• How to select a good Realtor
• Real Estate Negotiations

Hosted by

Eileen Horan

Mortgage Broker

Mortgage California

Aimee Snodgrass Klarich

Realtor

Alain Pinel Realtors- Burlingame

www.AimeeKlarich.com

DRE 01765417

What to Look for When Hiring a Home Stager

It's always a little challenging deciding who to hire when you need professional help. Most often you ask your friends and relatives for a referral. But what if they can't help you? How can you be sure that the person you are hiring is the right person for the job?

When it comes to hiring a home stager there are several factors that should be considered. Although price is most people's primary consideration it can be misleading for the consumer when comparing bids. Here is a list of questions you should ask when interviewing a home stager and why their answers could impact your choice.

1. Are you full time home stager and how long have you been in business? Full time stagers offer more flexible schedules, resources, furnishings and experience. They are not "hobbyists" who dabble in the business. It is important to select someone who has been in the business at least 2 years and can show a track record with references.
2. Do you own your own inventory of furniture and accessories? Stagers who own their own furnishings can bid the jobs more competitively because they don't have hard rental costs to add onto the bid. Although they will charge you a rental fee, it will be less than the rental from a commercial furniture vendor. Also these stagers have a larger inventory of accessories and art than the smaller staging companies that do not own furniture and can more readily meet your style needs.
3. If they do own their own furnishings, do they rent from an outside vendor as well? This is important because you want the stager to place the furnishings that are most appropriate for your home rather than what is in their current inventory. Inventory fluctuates with market demand and it is very possible that your needs would be better served if the stager designs around the needs of your home rather than the current furnishings in her inventory.
4. Who will be delivering the furnishings and working in my home? It is important that anyone working within your home is properly insured and the stager carries workers compensation insurance on them, to limit your liability exposure. You do not need someone getting injured and a claim being filed against you or your homeowners insurance. Ask about the delivery personnel and whether they carry liability insurance.
5. Does the home stager have a website and a portfolio to show you? If the stager you are about to hire does not have a website I would advise you to keep looking. A website reflects the quality and professionalism of a home stager. If it looks skimpy or "homemade" than it can be assumed that their inventory is like-wise. A professional, polished website which shows an extensive portfolio will best reflect their work and professionalism. You can also view the quality and style of their furnishing inventory in their vacant home portfolio.
6. Is the home stager installing the design herself ? Having the owner of the business on the job site is always a good idea. Owners take more care and customer satisfaction is essential to their business. It is also easier to bring up any concerns or questions to the owner directly.
7. Compare apples to apples when looking at bids. This is where it gets tricky and requires some detective work. Pricing alone is not a good comparison. A lower bid may reflect a thinner amount of furnishings and accessories.  By obtaining a list of furnishings per room from the stager it will be easier to compare the quality and fullness of a staging. Then you can view their portfolio to see a sample of the quality and style of their inventory. Often you get what you pay for.
8. What time period does the initial price cover? Home stagers can offer various time periods for the initial fee. Usually these time periods can not be pro-rated  should your home sell quickly. For example: if the $2500.00 initial fee covers 60 days and your home sells in 25  days you can not recap any of the initial fee. If, however, you had selected an initial time period of 30 days for a price of $1800.00 then you would have saved the difference. All stagers charge an initial fee and than a subsequent monthly fee. This subsequent monthly fee should be able to be pro-rated.
9. Does the home stager offer a deferred payment plan or payment through escrow? Not all stagers offer either. If this is a consideration ask around and find reputable stager that offers such services. Be prepared to pay a little extra for this service. The stagers is assuming some risk and a small mark-up is customary. Ask this question before the bid is made.
10. Can I select the furnishings or make final design choices? Talk with the home stager about their policies. It is important that everyone have realistic expectations about their experience. Most stagers I know have these policies written in their contract. View a contract before placing a deposit down.

Add Up Your Liablity Risks

A visitor trips on the stairs at your home and hurts himself...
A neighbor's son is injured on your backyard swing...
You're involved in a car crash that injures the other driver...

If any of these accidents result in a high medical costs and injury to the other party, you could be sued.
You could even by sued for non-injury reasons, such as humiliation, libel, slander, defamation of character or invasion of privacy.  What would happen if you were found legally liable?

Your auto or homeowners insurance may give you some liability coverage, but it's usually capped at certain levels.    

Try this worksheet:

• Start with the value of your home and add the value of all other assets, such as jewelry, cars, recreational vehicles, vacation or rental property and savings accounts.
• Does their value exceed the limits of your liability coverage on your insurance policies?
• If you're held liable for a high damage award, it's possible you could lose all those assets, including your home, savings or even future income.

For about $20 a month, many people can get $1 million in additional liability coverage with an umbrella policy.  Umbrella coverage kicks in after your auto or homeowners insurance reaches its policy liability limit.  For example, if your homeowners liability limit is $300,000 and a jury awards $900,000 in damages, your umbrella policy generally would cover the additional $600,000 as well as your legal exxpenses.

For more information on an umbrella policy or any insurance questions please contact:

Virginia Trowbridge at virginia.ctrowbridge@farmersagency.com

*image from istockphotos.com

San Mateo County Quarterly Real Estate Market Report

Market Statistics - San Mateo County

PROVIDED BY AIMEE KLARICH- Alain Pinel Realtors, Burlingame
Second Quarter 2010 vs. Second Quarter 2011

Single Family Residences (excludes Condominiums)

San Mateo County	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales*	1,265	1,289	2%
Average Price ($000)*	$950	$1,024	8%
Average DOM*	54	64	19%
Months of Inventory*	3.2	2.8	-13%

---

Atherton	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	20	19	-5%
Average Price ($000)	$3,671	$4,092	11%
Average DOM	65	53	-18%
Months of Inventory	5.6	3.8	-32%

---

Belmont	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	73	47	-36%
Average Price ($000)	$914	$943	3%
Average DOM	46	36	-22%
Months of Inventory	2.0	2.8	40%

---

Burlingame	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	56	72	29%
Average Price ($000)	$1,291	$1,308	1%
Average DOM	57	30	-47%
Months of Inventory	4.2	1.4	-67%

---

El Granada	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	17	11	-35%
Average Price ($000)	$727	$694	-5%
Average DOM	76	40	-47%
Months of Inventory	3.4	6.5	91%

---

Foster City	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	31	30	-3%
Average Price ($000)	$1,040	$980	-6%
Average DOM	33	39	18%
Months of Inventory	1.5	2.5	67%

---

Half Moon Bay	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	33	33	0%
Average Price ($000)	740	$770	4%
Average DOM	57.0	156	174%
Months of Inventory	4.7	7.4	57%

---

Hillsborough	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	29	46	59%
Average Price ($000)	$2,942	$2,730	-7%
Average DOM	49	66	35%
Months of Inventory	11.5	4.1	-64%

---

Menlo Park	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	106	128	21%
Average Price ($000)	$1,352	$1,363	1%
Average DOM	46	65	41%
Months of Inventory	2.1	1.2	-43%

---

Millbrae	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	34	44	29%
Average Price ($000)	$895	$918	3%
Average DOM	62	40	-35%
Months of Inventory	3.3	1.6	-52%

---

Montara, Moss Beach	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	6	17	183%
Average Price ($000)	$777	$733	-6%
Average DOM	110	169	54%
Months of Inventory	13.7	5.0	-64%

---

Pacifica	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	58	59	2%
Average Price ($000)	$649	$524	-19%
Average DOM	47	51	9%
Months of Inventory	4.8	4.6	-4%

---

Portola Valley	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	19	27	42%
Average Price ($000)	$2,014	$2,622	30%
Average DOM	48	120	150%
Months of Inventory	3.9	3.5	-10%

---

Redwood City	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	165	153	-7%
Average Price ($000)	$798	$793	-1%
Average DOM	50	70	40%
Months of Inventory	2.7	2.7	0%

---

Redwood Shores	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	23	16	-30%
Average Price ($000)	$1,065	$948	-11%
Average DOM	23	29	26%
Months of Inventory	2.6	1.0	-62%

---

San Bruno	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	58	50	-14%
Average Price ($000)	$563	$556	-1%
Average DOM	84	63	-25%
Months of Inventory	3.7	3.3	-11%

---

San Carlos	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	77	87	13%
Average Price ($000)	$995	$958	-4%
Average DOM	52	40	-23%
Months of Inventory	1.9	1.7	-11%

---

San Mateo	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	168	153	-9%
Average Price ($000)	$903	$856	-5%
Average DOM	54	47	-13%
Months of Inventory	2.5	2.4	-4%

---

South San Francisco	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	83	84	1%
Average Price ($000)	$542	$508	-6%
Average DOM	51	80	57%
Months of Inventory	2.6	2.9	12%

---

Woodside	Q2 2010	Q2 2011	% Change
Number of Sales	19	31	63%
Average Price ($000)	$1,752	$2,960	69%
Average DOM	77	114	48%
Months of Inventory	10.3	6.8	-34%

* Number of Sales is for the stated quarter and Average Price is an average for the stated quarter.
** Average DOM and Months of Inventory based on statistics for the last month of the stated quarter.

For details about your specific neighborhood...
Contact:
Aimee Klarich
Alain Pinel Realtors- Burlingame
DRE 01765417
aklarich@apr.com
650.483.3795

when it's time to weed...

...your closet...that is...

photo source

there you stand...in front of your jam packed closet...you've tried to get rid of those items (you know the ones)...really you have...you've torn your closet apart...hardening that heart of yours as you toss everything that doesn't fit...doesn't flatter...or isn't in style anymore to the side...maybe...you've even gone as far as having bundled all your rejects and looked up the goodwill phone number...

the problem?

those little voices...crying out to you from the garbage bag..."you can't throw me out! you paid $250 for me and you wore me only once" or "how could you get rid of me? your mother gave me to you for christmas!"

believe me...i've been there...getting rid of clothes...even those you're sure you'll never wear again...can be a difficult task...why is it so hard to part with what are...pieces of clothing just taking up space in our closet?

it truly is a struggle to weed out your own closet...mostly...because there is so much emotion attached to our clothes...you basically remember what you paid for each item...where you wore it...who gave it to you...

the flip side...getting rid of things that we are not...and won't be utilizing...can be very liberating...but you need someone to tell you how to do it...or you need someone to help you...who will be objective and not emotionally tied to the garments...

for those that truly want to leave the task to a professional...to weed out and reorganize the closet...but have that little bit of fear...maybe from watching too many episodes of "what not to wear"...where they feel they will have nothing left to wear...i will share with you how i...as a wardrobe consultant work...

so...what do i do? you may be wondering...

photo source

and why would you hire me? whatever your reasons are for not being able to tackle that closet...what stops you from doing so...this could be too overwhelming a task for one to handle...whether it be because you are tied emotionally to your clothes...or maybe because you just aren't quite sure on what to keep and what to get rid of...or perhaps...you just have better things to do...

i've spoken to many who became clients...but it was only after they became clients...they told me that they hesistated in calling me...simply for the fact that they weren't quite sure what it was...i would do...

i joke alot about the whole "what not to wear" idea...where a stylist comes in and gets rid of every shred of clothing...and basically starts anew with a whole new wardrobe...not only is this really far from reality...it is also a big bite on ones wallet...

so i thought i would share a little of how i personally work...

before the closet doors are even opened...i like to first sit down and talk with my client...this is the time where i find out what your life activities are...what you like & don't like...what you need...where you want to go with your style...and in this...we work on a style recipe specifically for you...it then gives us a point to work towards...to get a handle on your ideal theoretical wardrobe before tackling your actual one...

next we tackle the closet...the right way...is to go through each item...one by one...making decisions of what's in...what's out...what might be possible...

are there pieces that aren't being worn? can we make some outfits out of them...

if needed...we work on ways of creating space in the closet that is needed...or finding creative ways to store your precious items...

a list is made of needed items...and the hunt begins for those...

and therein begins the start of a beautiful relationship...

so for those in the san francisco bay area...if you are ready to begin...let me know...i look forward to working with you...or if you have questions...feel free to contact me...

elena daciuk
fabulous finds
wardrobe consultant/stylist
415.577.6133