The best solutions don’t just look good, they solved underlying problems, which aren’t always consciously understood by the person, or apparent in the Before photos. The process of going from oh no to wow is may not be extraordinary, but it’s deeply personal, then celebratory when done well. Here are some stories behind the pictures.
A recent article from the National Association of Realtors noted updates and renovations were becoming necessary for a luxury resale property to compete with new construction. Apparently ahead of the curve (!!) here’s a TRH project that was completed, and … Continued
Too many agents and buyers shy away from Staging, thinking it’s always about bringing in furniture. Hesitant, sometimes embarrassed, perhaps anticipating delay or large cost, they pass, doing themselves a great diservice. Staging bathrooms in empty houses has several distinct … Continued
YORKTOWN FUNERAL HOME
A modern, nicely done but unpopular diner closed. The new owner had a very different purpose, and needed to reinvent the image as well as the physical building.
RAISING THE BAR IN THIS CORTLANDT CONTEMPORARY Background The investor was an accomplished flipper. House was neglected, needed lots of work. As GC, he always made his own decisions, but wanted to take this project higher via the details and … Continued
INFAMOUS CLUB TO NOTED RESTAURANT Background This former…ahem…gentleman’s club was a colorful part of local history, and a rite of passage for several generations of area males, but had been abandoned years ago. The new owner was an experienced and … Continued
OVERLY PERSONALIZED WHITE PLAINS CONDO
The condo market was saturated, he was already in contract to buy another property, and he did not believe his décor could be so distracting to buyers.
Background: Although painting is the quickest, most effective and least expensive ways to change or update a room, it’s the recommendation that usually garners the most resistance. Anticipated cost is usually part of it, as is the hassle; but fear … Continued
ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST CHURCH
A busy 1890s church in downtown White Plains had frayed carpet and a badly failing 1960’s vinyl tile floor. Challenges included aesthetics, future maintenance, budget and logistics.
THEY DIDN’T WANT TO PAINT, EITHER Background This was a great house in a desirable Sound Shore neighborhood. Good light, everything in good repair, and updates had been done well. Like any other seller, they wanted to sell quickly, and … Continued
HASTINGS FRONT TO BACK SPLIT
It was the dreaded ‘off-season’…but sellers had already found the new house of their dreams. To sell this one quickly and well, we needed an infusion of charm and character in this 1960s front to back split.
