Righting a Remodel

Homeowners Kyle and Shaw Stafford are tired of the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. They are moving to Austin, Texas –– a much smaller city with a slower pace of life and where the cost of housing is a lot less. With all the profit they make from selling their California three-bedroom, one-and-half-bath ranch, the couple will be able to buy themselves a much bigger house in which to raise their family.

To make sure these homeowners get top dollar for their home, real estate expert Shannon Freeman stops by to provide her honest assessment. She loves the home’s charming exterior and nice landscaping. In the living room, she notes that the homeowners broke the cardinal rule of real estate –– they are hiding the assets instead of highlighting them. The gorgeous stone fireplace, for example, is blocked by furniture. Freeman doesn’t have any kind words to say about the kitchen. It is so monochromatic, it makes her feel like she’s in an old, 1950s black-and-white TV show. In the bathroom, Freeman thinks there are too many conflicting design elements, and the tub is full of crud and soap scum.

Designer Lisa LaPorta agrees with Freeman’s statements and has a $2,000 plan that will get these homeowners the profit they seek.

Step 1: Rearrange the living room to highlight the fireplace.

Step 2: Add some cohesive color to the kitchen, and revamp the cabinets.

Step 3: Overhaul the bathroom and get rid of the inconsistent design elements.

Talented carpenters Deus Scott and Steve Hanneman are ready, willing and able to get the job done.