Trading Trendy for Size

Meredith and Kyle are ready to sell their condo in Chicago's trendy Lincoln Park neighborhood and find a larger place. But first they some upgrading to do. That's where the Designed to Sell team comes into the picture.

Real estate expert Bethany Souza starts her assessment with the exterior, noting that it looks like new construction with a traditional feel and has excellent curb appeal--flowerpots on a porch are always inviting. Once inside, she is disappointed with the oversize furniture and arrangement in the main room as well as the cat lounge and accessories dotted about. The spare room needs to be established as such, and the view to the balcony should be played up as much as possible, she adds.

Designer Monica Pedersen chimes in next. She agrees with Souza's constructive criticism and lays out a plan to increase this home's bottom line before the open house. Her focus will be on the living room, den and master bedroom.

Step 1: Amplify the amenities. Make the homes' selling features loud and clear to buyers.

Step 2: Hit the hay. Create soothing bedrooms that buyers won't lose sleep over.

Step 3: Color it gone. Use neutral tones to take it from bold to sold.

Carpenters Robert North and Chad Lopez sign on to help.