Staging Your Home

Homeowners don't have to spend a fortune on decorating to impress potential buyers. Los Angeles decorator Jonathan Fong says there are many easy and affordable ways to transform a home from dull to dashing. For those on a tight budget, he offers these four decorating ideas that are sure to boost the "wow" factor of any home:

• Eliminate those white walls. The bolder, the better. And don't forget to paint the ceiling. Carrying the color scheme throughout the house makes the rooms look bigger.

• Place a new area rug over an existing carpet or floor. Remnant pieces from carpet or home work just fine.

• Light up the room. Make sure it shines day and night with lamps, wall lights, hanging fixtures or a combination. A ceiling fan with a light kit will be selling point for some buyers.

• Don't underestimate the power of accessories. Votive candles, plants and even colorful switch plates for lights can add a flourish to a plain room.

Source: Associated Press