We know you can’t wait to dig into this article, but just before you start reading – take a moment to think about this quote.
“Obstacles do not block the path, they are the path.” – Zen proverb
Where do you stand – agree or disagree?
Do you see obstacles as stepping stones or are they just hurdles, blocking your path? We encourage you to take a moment now and think about your answer, but don’t tell us just as yet.
Done? Okay, let’s get to the nitty-gritty.
We have recently sat down for a chat with the internationally recognised professional Home Stager – Jennie Norris.
With over 18 years of experience and more than 5300 properties staged, Jennie is an absolute wealth of knowledge. If you missed this Foxy Property Chat podcast episode- you can listen to it for free on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Jennie’s story started in 2002, when she found herself in need of another source of income. With four children all under the age of 8, she knew it needed to be something profitable, yet flexible.
The inspiration struck when her Real Estate agent provided her with Home Staging services. After moving to Sacramento (California, US) Jennie decided to pursue her new-found passion and started THE VERY FIRST Home Staging Business in the city.
• Being the first one in the market…
… may sound good in theory, but the reality is a bit more difficult. Education seemed to have played a pivotal role during this stage and as Jennie mentions later on in the podcast – it STILL IS a vital part of the business.
In less than 5 years, Jennie’s business turned from ‘Can I make money doing this?’ to her primary source of income. With 7 stagers on the team, the business was in a prime position to command the market. Until obstacle number 2 popped up. You may have guessed it… the infamous GFC.
• Dealing with a sudden drop in the market…
… was not an easy task. People started losing their houses right, left and centre, which left Jennie and her husband with a difficult decision. Should they hold on to their rapidly depreciating assets or cut their losses and move on?
Jennie and her family ended up short-selling their family home and decided to move interstate for a fresh start.
• Starting from scratch in a brand new city…
… was something Jennie was already familiar with. Having had the industry knowledge and experience served as a strong foundation to lean on during that time.
Approximately one year later, Sensational Home Staging was up and running successfully.
Fast forward to 2020 – Jennie is a successful business owner, chairman of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP) and multiple awards winner. All this while she continues to coach other home-staging business owners in the industry.
Let’s reflect on the quote at the beginning – are you letting obstacles block your path or are you using them to create your path?
Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
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