Real-Estate Readjustment

Elisabeth and Josh McMillon are selling their troubled condo. They need to swiftly sell so they can move out of state, and Josh can begin his new career in chiropractic medicine. They look to the Designed to Sell team to help them turn their problems into profits come open house day.

Real estate expert Shannon Freeman agrees to provide an assessment of the home's problem areas. She points out that the living/dining room has too many personal touches--rooms need to be kept as neutral as possible when a house is on the market. She also notes that the kitchen and master bedroom need decluttering, and the den is poorly defined.

Designer Lisa LaPorta is the next to visit the home. She agrees with Freeman's comments and lays out a plan to shape up the living/dining room, kitchen and den. Here's what she wants to do:

Step 1: Neutralize it. Remove personal items that make buyers feel like intruders.

Step 2: Give it a boost. Maximize the home's limited square footage.

Step 3: Elevate with elegance. Decorate each room to its ultimate potential.

Helping LaPorta seek out the value are carpenters Steve Hanneman and Brooks Utley.