BEWARE OF SCAMS TARGETING THE ELDERLY

Key Associates

By: Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

 

 

Although we are fortunate that the majority of people are kind and caring, there are always going to be those on the prowl, looking for a victim to scam out of money.  Unfortunately, that's just the world that we live in - one with those that would rather spend their efforts making a quick buck at someone else's misfortune, as opposed to earning an honest living.  Older adults are especially susceptible.  My grandmother is constantly complaining about the amount of mail that she must read through, and many of the envelopes are filled with requests for money.  I've tried to persuade her to immediately recycle any mail from unknown sources, but she feels as if she must read through each individual request.  I know that she gives to several charitable organizations, but I do not know what she might give to organizations that are less-than-honorable.  Here's a great article from NPR (National Public Radio) titled "Why it's Easier to Scam the Elderly".  Please take the time to read through it, and to refresh the older adults in your life on how to be more vigilant against scams.

 

 

HELPING SENIORS MOVE

Key Associates

By: Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

 

 

We've previously touched on the subject of Senior Move Management - the process of a professional service provider that helps seniors move from one residence to another.  Senior Move Management is one of the services that Key Associates is highly experienced in.  Key Associates is a member of the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) and also has a senior Certified Relocation & Transition Specialist (CRTS) on staff.  Here's a great video that gives move details on what Senior Move Management entails.  At Key Associates, we pride ourselves on helping seniors make a home transition with compassion and dignity, and are extremely efficient, organized, and detailed throughout the process.

 

   

DIY HOLIDAY CONTAINER

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

 

Over the long Thanksgiving weekend, I took some time to work in my flower beds.  Most everything has withered for the season, and it was time to dump some of the containers and prune dead leaves and stems.  My family also picked out a lovely live Christmas tree, which involved pruning the lower branches in order for it to fit in the stand.  So, I had sad, empty planters hanging around outside, and these perfect green Fraser Fir branches that I had just trimmed off of the tree.  What to do?  How fitting that I came across this very easy "how to" article on sprucing up an outdoor container!  What a perfect way to prolong the aesthetic appeal of an outdoor planter. 

Deck Your Containers With Holiday Cheer in Half an Hour

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GIFTS FOR OLDER ADULTS

Key Associates

By:  Jennifer DiLemme

www.keyassociates.biz

 

With "Black Friday" upon us, and the search for perfect holiday gifts, here are some ideas for the older adults in your life.

10 Great Gift-giving Ideas for Older Adults:

1.  Personal/Medical alert system (such as Lifeline, MedicAlert, or Lifefone).  Such systems give both you and your loved one peace of mind.

2.  Gift certificates for pedicures.  It often becomes difficult for seniors to cut their own toenails and maintain healthy feet.  An experienced spa can assist your loved one and also offer a relaxing experience.  An added benefit:  blood circulation is increased with massage. 

3.  A cell phone with large and easy to read buttons, such as a Jitterbug cell phone.

4.  Gift certificate for snow & ice removal.  Contact a neighbor, or local business, that offers such services and make sure your loved one has a safe entrance, free of snow and ice all winter long.

5.  As the weather becomes cold and icy, a great gift might be dog walking services, if your senior has a dog. 

6.  Warm scarves, hats, and gloves are always appreciated.

7.  For the senior with arthritis or vision issues, large print keyboards, large button TV remotes, large display clocks, and large button home telephones are great options.

8.  Anything made by hand is a thoughtful gift.  Specially painted coffee mugs, knitted items, homemade soaps, etc., are all great gifts.

  

9.  Gift certificates to their favorite movie location, coffee shop, or restaurant will surely be enjoyed.  Offer to be the chauffer for the occasion.

10.  Often in the winter it is more difficult for older adults to get out as much due to the weather.  A gift certificate for a "Winter Fun Day at Home with You" will mean the world to your loved one.  Take a special lunch, have fun times remembering stories, work a puzzle, play a game, or just sit and relax with each other.  

As always, it is the thought that counts when giving the special people in your life a gift.  Hopefully our list has gotten the ideas flowing and will help you as you head out on your shopping adventure.  

THANKSGIVING

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

As we are busy preparing for Thanksgiving next week, all of us at Key Associates would like to express how thankful we are for our clients and business partners.  Over the past year, we've been fortunate to work with some wonderful people.  Thank you to all who have trusted us with their loved ones and their material posessions - and to those who have referred folks to us.  Our success is because of you, and we are so appreciative.  

As you prepare for Thanksgiving, we'd like to share an article from Houzz.com with some wonderful decorating tips.  I especially enjoy the use of natural items as decor.  Whether entertaining at home, or in the home of friends or family, we hope that you all enjoy the day!

Your Easiest Fall Decorating Ever

Houzz- Kitchen Remodel, Bathroom Remodel and More »

 

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HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

Although we already entered a blog post today, we couldn't help but share some photos of fall and Halloween decor that we really enjoyed seeing on another Houzz.com article.  Fall is quickly slipping by, and winter is fast approaching.  I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the leaves change and fall in our beautiful mountains here in Western North Carolina.  We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful place!  I'm not ready for winter to visit yet, and if you're feeling the same, then hopefully you'll enjoy these decorating ideas for the Fall season. 

Traditional Landscape design by Chicago Design-build Smalls Landscaping

Traditional Porch design by Boston Photographer Mary Prince

Here's a link to the full article with more fun pictures of Halloween and Fall decorating ideas:

Bewitching Halloween Entryways by Houzzers

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Houzz.com Article:  Clipped Gable Roofs

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

The Executive Director and Lead Designer of Key Associates, Lue Kirchner, is a self-proclaimed architecture buff.  While perusing Houzz.com, she came across this article on Clipped Gable Roofs that she wanted to share.  What a great example of function and beauty combined!   

Clipped Gable Roofs Extend Traditional Exterior Style

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HOME STAGING FOR REALTORS

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor and Lauren Wiles

www.keyassociates.biz

A few weeks ago we mentioned the new presentation that we've been working on specifically for Realtors on Home Staging.  At Key Associates, we have repeatedly witnessed the benefits that Realtors and their clients experience when investing in Home Staging prior to listing.  As Staging Professionals, our goal is to maximize buying potential while minimizing market time, and we have a proven track record in doing so.  We know that time is of the essence, and our goal is to establish long-term partnerships with Realtors to increase efficiency, save valuable time, and consistently provide desirable results.  It is common knowledge that a buyer's mind is generally made up in the first few minutes of viewing a property, and it is our job to make those minutes and that first impression count.  Our Home Staging professionals will work to appeal to the highest number of buyers through maximizing the positives, minimizing the negatives, neutralizing spaces, showing function, and much more. 

Our successful staging results in increased buying potential, decreased market times, and greater profits.  Along with decreased market time as noted by ASP (Association of Staging Professionals) statistics, the average professionally staged home sells in 29 days whereas a home that has not been staged averages 149 days on the market.

 

Home Staging should not be used as an afterthought, at the seller's suggestion, or as a last resort - it should be proactive to take advantage of the momentum that it creates.  Key Associates utilizes market-specific staging; we take into account whether a listing is in a family neighborhood, is a downtown loft, or otherwise would benefit from a unique approach.  For vacant homes, Key Associates maintains a warehouse and stages in one of two ways.  Our most common method is through the monthly rental of furnishings.  However, we will also stage on a budget for those who prefer to own the furnishings.  Except for model homes, we do not believe in filling a vacant home.  We are mindful or our client's budget and only fully stage areas of importance.  Knowing what is needed and what is not is the "Key" (pun intended) to our success. 

For occupied homes, we offer two types of evaluations:  an economical Walk-Through Consultation or a Written Staging Evaluation.  We provide hands-on staging and de-cluttering either by the hour or through specials such as our One Day Intensive Staging Special.  If desired, we can even arrange to divest our clients' unwanted items.  

As a partner of Key Associates, Realtors are able to offer their clients an additional service that delivers faster and more profitable results.  Collaborations increase professionalism and staging allows Realtors to maximize listing prices - an added benefit to both the Realtor and their client.  Rick Yelverton, a Realtor in the Kenmure community in Flat Rock, North Carolina, saw results when we furnished a vacant home that had been on the market for approximately 15 months.  Our truck delivered furnishings on September 8th and we picked up the furnishings on October 9th - just before the home closed on October 12th.  Now, that's NOT just under contract, that's sold and CLOSED in 5 weeks.   

Current research (according to the National Association of Realtors - NAR) suggests Realtors are in a transition, one that is pushing the field in a new direction. The NAR suggest a collaborative approach that supports specialist roles; enhancing the collective knowledge and skill set of the individual.  Lue Kirchner, our executive director and lead designer is a former Realtor who has successfully bought, renovated, & sold properties for profit since the 1980’s.  The above, combined with our staff’s professional training, certifications, and industry partnerships allow us to offer a standard of service that sets the bar in staging.  Partnering our skills as Professional Stagers with your real estate expertise is a clear approach to intertwine creativity and marketing strategy.

Key Associates is fully insured and all employees are bonded.  We also maintain several professional memberships and certifications.

We would love to answer any questions about how we can partner with our local Realtors to help meet the challenges of today's market by selling real estate more quickly and profitably.  Please contact us today for more information on how we can collaborate our resources.

SENIOR MOVE MANAGEMENT

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

 

 

The field of Senior Move Management has grown significantly in recent years to meet the needs of our country's increasing senior population.  Senior Move Managers have specialized training to assist in all aspects of the move process, and approach this process with extreme compassion towards the distress that moving inflicts on older adults and their families.  Here is a great article from the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) covering many of the Frequently Asked Questions as relate to Senior Move Management:

 

Senior Move Manager FAQs 

 

Key Associates is proud to maintain membership in the NASMM, and works diligently toward providing a calm and organized action plan to be executed throughout the move process.  

 

 

THE LITTLE TOUCHES, PART 2
Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

This week we continue to showcase our samples of "The Little Touches" that play such a large part of our design and staging projects.

A luxurious throw and a coordinating pillow....



 The fringes, cording, and contrasting colors of these sophisticated curtains.... 

The detail of the pleating and buttons combined with the dark and textured wood....

A carefully chosen patterned pillow to compliment a rich leather chair....

THE LITTLE TOUCHES
Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

Whether our design department is working on a staging project or an interior design project, it is often the little touches that make a difference.  Several weeks ago, we shared some "sneak peek" photos from the staging that we created for the "Gentlemen's Model".  Here are some additional pictures from that and another recently-completed model that highlight a few of our favorite accents.

A layering of rich textures creates a focal point on this end table.

Even in the bathroom, a basket of towels contributes to the welcoming feeling.

Carefully selected accessories compliment the furnishings.

   

KEY ASSOCIATES FOR REALTORS

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

In recent weeks, we at Key Associates have been busy working on a new presentation for Realtors on how we can be better partners in the selling of a home.  There are great opportunities for meaningful collaboration, and we can't wait to work more diligently to further open the lines of communication.  In the coming weeks, I will be checking in with local realtors in our North Carolina market and Lauren Wiles will be talking with Greenville area Realtors. We’ll be asking for a few moments to share our new presentation.  Here's a sneak peak at a slide on why partnering the expertise of Realtors with the professional staging provided by Key Associates creates a successful collaboration.  Please let us know if you'd like a presentation to come to you!

THE CONSUMER'S GUIDE TO REAL ESTATE STAGING

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

Last week we disccused saving on home staging; and this week we'll explore an extremely informative document called, A Consumer's Guide to Real Estate Staging.  There are many benefits to both buyers and sellers in staging a home, and this guide takes an in-depth look at those benefits.  Check out the second image of the Table of Contents for the guide - you'll see what a wealth of information is available! 

SAVING ON HOME STAGING

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

When trying to sell a home, money spent on home staging can be greatly beneficial and often nets much more in the sale of a home.  Statistics have proven that professional staging actually increases profits and decreases market time.  (See statistics from the Real Estate Staging Association, the National Association of Realtors and America Staging Professionals.)
Here is a great article on "9 Tips To Help You Save On Home Staging" from MSN Real Estate: 

9 tips to help you save on home staging - MSN Real Estate

Included in the article is this brief video clip with tips for sellers wanting to stage their own home rather than hiring a professional:

Keep in mind that in hiring a professional home staging company, such as Key Associates, there are the added benefits of an un-biased approach, professional experience, and home furniture and decor items available. 

THE GENTLEMAN'S MODEL

Key Associates

By:  Lauren Wiles

www.keyassociates.biz

One of our favorite places to work is The Woodlands at Furman, a beautiful retirement community on the outskirts of Greenville, SC.  We have helped many a client transition from their home into this lovely community.  Through our work with clients at The Woodlands, we have also been involved on several projects directly for The Woodlands.  This week we take a "sneak peek" into a model apartment we recently completed, which has been coined The Gentleman's Model.  It's filled with warm colors, rich leathers, and comfortable corners to read.  Keep watching for the professional photos coming in the next few weeks.

Welcome Orchids: Orchids are known to be soothing and symbolically mean luxury and strength. Though they are delicate by nature, they live a relatively long life and are naturally welcoming plants. In a tiny space just outside the door, the rich color in this arrangement is meant to leave a lasting first impression on guests and potential buyers. Nothing says "Welcome Home" like the beauty and gracefulness of a potted orchid.

Powder Room: This bath/powder room is just off the office in our recently completed Gentleman's model. With ample space, this powder room has clean lines with a twist of vibrant movement created by the Jacobean printed shower curtain. We added a multi-toned, ornate shaped wood basket with a towel display to move the colors around the room. The wall hangings also repeat warm hues of wheat-yellow, a soft palette of grays, and gentle browns ranging from sienna to chestnut. With the elegant touch these birds display, they are more than suitable to bring the outdoors in.

What is a Gentleman's Model without man's best friend? This metal-worked accent piece, that I lovingly named "Rudy", adds various textured elements and dimension along with its whimsical and playful form.  "Rudy" also doubles as a planter allowing us to add a warming coral flower arrangement. It was the perfect piece of flare to complete this covered gentleman's terrace. And we simply couldn't resist!

HOME STAGING FOR BUILDERS

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

Home staging is often lumped into the same category as interior design; however, there are very distinct differences to each approach.  Home staging has a primary goal of preparing a home for sale - either an existing home or a newly built or model home.  In staging a home for sale, the goal of the staging must be to appeal to the highest possible number of buyers, while, in interior design, the goal is to appeal to one specific client/family.  An interior designer may not be trained in home staging, and vice versa. 

Builders are one of the groups that can benefit from enlisting the assistance of a professional home stager.  Here is an excellent article from the California Building Industry Association that shares the perspective of how home staging can help builders sell their homes.  The full article can be accessed through this link, and here's a sample paragraph:

 "More and more new home builders are staging their standing inventory production homes in addition to their model homes, due to the high carrying costs of standing inventory. Model home staging is one of the valuable services that a new homebuilder can benefit from, and when done right, it enhances the beauty and grandeur the homebuilder built into the home and adds just enough life so that a homebuyer can feel and emotionally connect -- "fall in love" with it -- on a deeper level."[1]

 

---

[1] Beth L. Bliffen, “Perspectives:  Home Staging Can Help Builders With Sales”, California Building Industry Association, 2009, http://www.cbia.org/go/cbia/california-builder-magazine/current-issue/home-staging-can-help-builders-with-sales/

WHO WE ARE:  THE KEY ASSOCIATES TEAM

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

We recently had our quarterly meeting at Key Associates, and wanted to share a little information about who we are and how we feel about what Key Associates can offer.  We were each asked to answer several questions - here are a couple of the questions, as well as the answers that we submitted.

Question:  What one word best describes Key Associates? 

Answers:  Professional, Service, Helpful, and Efficient 

Question:  In one word, what is the most important thing we can give our clients?

Answers:  Respect, Service, Relationship, Organization, Confidence, Care

As a team, and individually, this provides a true picture of what we believe in when it comes to serving each and every one of our clients.

Being a small business, we all wear many hats within Key Associates.  Our titles and/or areas of primary function are listed below, although, cross-training is practiced and we all pitch in wherever help is needed.  From left to right:

Lauren Wiles - Marketing and Interior Design

Sarah Madore - Office Manager, Administration

Stephanie Bradshaw - Warehouse Manager, Move Management

Jennifer DiLemme - Marketing Director, Move Management, Home Staging

Allison Taylor - Blogger, Move Management

Behind the camera:  Lue Kirchner - Executive Director, Lead Designer

*This is our core group at Key Associates, however, we have several other wonderful staff who were not present for this meeting and picture. 

   

INTERIOR DESIGN: THE PORCH

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

For this project, Interior Design actually became more of an Exterior Design on this very narrow porch in a client's new condo.  We were tasked with utilizing existing furnishings and creating a functional yet comfortable outdoor escape.  The wicker furniture was dark green in its previous home, and our design professionals chose a lighter neutral color that not only coordinates with the exterior trim and door colors, but is also an extension of the interior colors.  With a fresh coat of paint, re-upholstered cushions, and an efficient arrangement, the porch has become a welcoming retreat at our client's new home.  

HOUZZ ARTICLE:  Mood Makers:  Small Rooms, Spacious Feel

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

It is not uncommon for an Interior Design project to include the task of making a small space feel larger.  Below is a wonderful photo gallery from a great article addressing this subject.  Please click here for the full article.   In addition to the tips recommended in this article, our experienced designers at Key Associates also suggest these hints:

• Declutter the space
• Accessorize with a few larger pieces, and use groupings or vignettes instead of scattering small accessories all around
• Keep the lines clean and the spaces flowing

Mood Makers: Small Rooms, Spacious Feel

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INTERIOR DESIGN: KITCHEN

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

 

No project is too large or too small for Key Associates' design team.  For this job, the client asked Key Associates for help in the kitchen.  There were already striking granite countertops in place, along with crisp and classic cabinetry.  However, the wall did not have quite the right character to fit the surroundings.  Key Associates worked with the clients to add the new tile backsplash, with wonderful detail, to tie in the granite countertops.  The new look provides a simple and elegant focal point to this lovely kitchen.

 

 

REALTOR Magazine Article:  Dignified Relocations

Key Associates

By:  Allison Taylor

www.keyassociates.biz

 

Addressing the relocation needs of an older adult can present many challenges for family members.  I currently have a 91 year old grandmother who is refusing to leave her very large condo.  I see all of the items that she has accumulated throughout her life, and that she would not easily part with.  I also see the challenges of conflicting ideas on approaching the situation, from various well-meaning family members.  I can most certainly see the benefits of hiring a neutral professional to assist through any necessary living transitions.  Below is a great article from REALTOR Magazine that explores some of the common questions asked by those considering a downsizing move for any older adult. 

Please click here for the original website article.

 

        

INTERIOR DESIGN: LIVING ROOM
Key Associates

By:  Lue Kirchner

www.keyassociates.biz

This week we are spotlighting the living room of a project we did for clients in the Greenville area.  The overall goal was to create a home that was clean-lined and serene, and would stand the test of time.  To accomplish this, standard builder-grade carpeting in this newly constructed home was replaced with hardwood floors, and all interior walls and ceilings were painted.   Here, the soft, almost neutral green of the walls lends a tranquil backdrop to the complimentary colors of the Turkish area rug.  In this room, we were tasked with finding and incorporating new furnishings with treasured furnishings and accessories collected from throughout Asia during the years our clients’ lived there.  Custom window treatments were added to soften the space and visually “even out” uneven window heights.  Working with Steve Huter from Giving Tree Cabinets, we designed built-in cabinetry that not only affords the owners the ability to further showcase their beautiful collection, but also provides ever-needed additional storage space.  In the end - - clean-lined and serene, but far from boring!