Beyond the Starter Home

Real estate expert Donna Freeman pays the Jacksons' home a visit to assess problem areas. She notices that the lawn looks great, but the plastic containers and toys strewn about detract from it, and this planter is useless without fresh flowers in it.

This dilapidated red fencing doesn't help either. Replacing the rundown fence is a must.

Inside, she notices more clutter, particularly in front of the living-room fireplace. Instead of adding warmth and character to the living room, the fireplace is serving as a catchall. Fireplaces are seen as a major plus by potential buyers and should be shown off.

Each of the bedrooms need some tidying up, but the office needs more attention. It looks likes a cross between a child's room and an office, and the carpet is filthy. Rooms should have a clear definition so buyers don't have to do any guesswork.

The living and dining rooms have a confusing aesthetic aspect. There isn't really any one focal point, and the furniture arrangements could use some sprucing up. The living room is a bit drab and uninviting but nothing some fresh paint and furniture rearranging can't fix.

The dining room is stacked high with boxes and other clutter, leaving little room for actually dining.

Designer Lisa LaPorta lays out her three-step plan to make the changes necessary to get this house ready to sell:

Step 1: Simplify to sell. Make sure buyers are getting the square footage advertised by packing away the clutter.

Step 2: Liven it up. Remove all signs of anything dead or dirty so the home feels fresh and new. Colorful plants and a new fence outside are a must.

Step 3: Stop kidding around. One child's room is fine, but the rest of the home needs to appeal to a more grownup clientele.

With just seven days to get ready for the open house, contractor Jim Collins and carpenters Brad Haviland and Nick Ralbovsky tackle the large job of adding space to these cramped quarters.