COLUMN: Gail Mayhugh

DEAR GAIL: We are selling our home, and our Realtor has scheduled an open house. Naturally, we want to make a good impression. Can you provide us with some quick and easy decorating tips? -- Sally R.

DEAR SALLY: Holding an open house is a wonderful opportunity to reach the greatest number of prospective buyers in one day. What you need to do is some interior merchandising, just like you see in model homes.

First, think of what you see -- and don't see -- in model homes. Remove all personal items, especially those in the bedrooms and baths. Also put away everyday items, such as newspapers, magazines, remote controls, mail, keys and kitchen counter appliances. Next, look around the house for other items that are not normally seen in a model, then put those items away for the day.

Now, let's get down to decorating the home. In the dining room, set the table with china, linens and crystal -- you want to make the table sparkle.

In the kitchen, take a large vase and fill it with lemons and limes or red and green apples. Next, fill it with water and add sunflowers. This is a unique way to bring a sense of taste and smell into the kitchen that visitors will remember.

In the master bath, add fresh flowers and also put out either new or guest towels. And just like we do in the models, tie the towels with raffia, ribbon or tassels. In the other baths, place a tray of candles and a potted plant for color on the counter. Also, pick up the bath mats and always keep the toilet lid down.

The family room is where you want potential buyers to sit and linger, as it is where we all spend the most time. So, set the room to be comfortable and place a throw and an open book on an ottoman and put a board game on the coffee table. Set it up as if a game is being played and add two nice coffee cups and napkins on a tray.

Give special attention to the entry and front room as they are first-impression areas. Stand at the front door and shine up the door hardware and lighting, as well as the door. Add potted plants, a chair, and a welcome mat that does not have your name on it. Remember, you want potential buyers to see themselves in the house, and not be reminded that it is yours.

When you enter the home, what do you see first? Place your best and most impressive accessory items there.

Also, don't forget the back yard and what is seen through the windows. If you have a patio table, set it with dishes and linens. Also arrange the furniture in groupings, so visitors will have multiple areas to sit and relax.

You might also consider playing some easy listening music, as it helps put people at ease and feel they can talk without being heard.

Finally, be careful of the type of potpourri or candles you put out because many people have allergies and are sensitive to smell. Stay away from anything strong or floral. Vanilla is normally the safest scent.

Gail Mayhugh, owner of GMJ Interiors, is a professional interior designer and author of a book on the subject. Questions may be sent by e-mail to: gail@gmjinteriors.com. Or, mail to: 8170 S. Eastern Ave, Box 4-275, Las Vegas, NV 89123. Her Web address is: www.GMJinteriors.com.

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