Interior Redesign - Is a Career in this Alternative Decorating Field for You?

Have you been considering a career in the exciting alternative decorating field of Interior Redesign? If so, there are several important questions to ask your potential trainer.

First and foremost...
Does the training provide a certificate or certification?
The difference being, many instructors will hand out a "certificate" after the student has been involved with several other people in rearranging a handful of rooms. It doesn't really mean much and is hardly worth the paper it is written on. A "certification" usually requires the student pass some sort of testing procedure to indicate they are knowledgeable in the said field. This means much more.
Will there be actual client contact?
This is very important for the interior redesign student. To observe the instructor interacting with a client is a great learning experience and vital to everyone starting in the business. Not only does the student obtain valuable insight to the process of interior redesign but they get caught up in the excitement of the project reveal!
How many redesign projects will be completed during training?
I learned that the IRIS standard of professionalism in FIVE! This hardly seems like enough but it seemingly is the standard to become a professional. Be wary of instructors that offer less than this as it may be difficult for to join future affiliations to add to your credibility.
What is included in the training and what additional purchases will be needed?
Most instructors include a manual and offer ongoing support. If they offer monthly or quarterly meetings, this is hardly useful if you live out of the instructor's home state. Some do offer teleconferences and web meetings that can be accessed from anywhere. Ask if the course includes any tools...especially business forms and information about starting your own business. Factor into your cost of tuition these additional purchases.
I would like to mention the tuition factor. After researching this alternative decorating field of interior redesign, I discovered that there are no checks and balances. Most training centers are in it only for the money and do not even require testing of their students. Moving around furniture for a few days does not a professional make.
Buyers beware when choosing an instructor in this field.
Author Julie Rieman
Instructor ~The All About Redesign Center
www.allaboutredesign.com

Prepare Your Home For Open House by Appealing to the Five Senses

1. Out of sight, out of mind! Hide away anything you would not see in a “model”home. This is especially true regarding trash! Remember to empty all trash bins and remove them from sight. Keep in mind that potential buyers look at everything! A clean property equates a well maintained property that will get offers!
2. Never underestimate the sense of smell. It is important that your property passes the “smell test”. This may be accomplished by using many of the various room fresheners available today. I recommend a long lasting product and prefer the plug-in style. Consider placing one in each room. Place in an inconspicuous area that is not easily noticed by potential buyers.
3. Do you hear what I hear? This is especially important in creating an atmosphere of peacefulness. You do not want potential buyers to hear the furnace turn on or listen to outdoor traffic. Consider playing music that will not offend most people. Rock and Roll is dead as far as your open house goes! We suggest playing soft background music that contains no lyrics.
4. Potential buyers will be touching surfaces in your property. Not intentionally, but because they have to! Be certain that all banisters, handrails, doorknobs and faucets sparkle! You do not want people to “feel” that your home is anything but squeaky clean!
5. I like to suggest leaving a decorative treat filled dish out for potential buyers. You can fill it with various individually wrapped candies. I know it sounds corny but EVERYONE loves chocolate and it will make potential buyers remember and feelgood about your property!
Having appealed to the five senses some other important tips...
CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN! This cannot be stressed enough and I mean EVERYTHING! Buyers will look inside your oven, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and everywhere else I might have forgotten to mention. Consider your open house a home inspection performed by an Army drill sergeant! Nothing will be overlooked!
Now if I have not completely terrified you, here is some more advice...
Check for cobwebs that seemingly come from nowhere.Wash all light fixtures so they sparkle like new.Clear any signs of clutter and hide away all personal items.Consider shampooing the carpets for a fresh smelling clean look.Organize and clear clutter from every closet and cabinet... Buyers ALWAYS look inside to determine storage space.Wash windows inside and out. (Pay close attention to window sills and frames.) Buyers will typically inspect every window. Ouch!Place fresh flowers close to the entrance door for a warm welcome.Finally, go out for a nice meal and try to relax during your open house. You have earned it by following these suggestions!
Good Luck! Hope you sell your home quickly!
Author Julie Rieman
Instructor ~The All About Redesign Center
www.allaboutredesign.com