Are You Guilty Of A Cultural Faux Pas?

Today our world is getting smaller. As the US population becomes more diverse communication with people from other cultures become more important.  I understand that sudden immersion in a different culture can trigger a whole series of complex emotional reactions known as “culture shock”.

Culture is a strong part of peoples’ lives. It influences their views, values, hopes and dreams. Having respect for culture differences and learning basic differences and characteristics of other cultures can help avoid miscommunication.

I strive, when working with internationals, to understand their culture and avoid faux pas that could be offensive.

Avoid Language Barriers by…

Talking Slowly

Avoid Slang

Minimize Hand Gestures

Know the Cultural Rule for Eye Contact…

Many cultures avoid direct eye contact as a means of showing respect to the other person.

Know the Cultural Rule For The Smile…

Around the world, a smile can communicate many things. In some cultures, a smile, will communicate the emotions of sad, happy, angry, or confused.  In other cultures a smile shows disagreement, anger, confusion, and frustration.

“No”, Does Not Always Mean No…

Many cultures have difficulty saying, “No” to a request, and some internationals may say, ”yes” when the answer is really “no”.

Call Them By Their Real Name…

We us first names, but many other cultures do it differently. Do not assign them a nickname, learn to pronounce their name correctly.

Time…

I always take the time to explain my expectations in regard to time and punctuality.

Lastly, it is my job to help these visitors to relax, to understand, and to have the easiest buying experience possible. There is an added benefit for me; I learn new things, new ways of thinking, and move a little more out of my box. Do you have any other suggestions or observations to share about your experiences?

5 Tips for Stunning Curb Appeal In Jacksonville,Florida

   The Front Door-yes it is the most important aspect of the entrance. Paint it, clean it, and declutter anything that may distract from the entrance.  Freshen up the mulch, place a plant or two near the door, or a welcoming wreath. Don't clutter the doorway with too many things.  Please no gnomes, garden fairies, or ornate statues.

                                                  My Front Door
                                                                 
     Shrubs and Bushes-They do matter. Over grown shrubs makes a home look tired and old. Trim them to the bottom of the window. It is a good idea to place taller bushes or shrub at the corners of the house to frame it in and in doing so, it takes the sharpness off the corners of the home.  Avoid cacti and other sharp pointed plants, because  they create bad energy for the home. 

     I love landscaping with small trees. I live in Florida, and my home receives the hot afternoon sun so I used crepe myrtles to block the sun's rays and they also provide color for the summer months.

Yes, I should have sweep the walkway...

1.        

    Landscape Design- Design for the four seasons.  Attempt to have something blooming year round.  Do you have a lot of little circle islands around your trees?  Are your trees wearing collars? Too many of these circles are distracting and tend to clutter the yard. Trees are beautiful; allow some of  them to stand alone. 

     It is more desirable to line your walkway with more than  one type of flower or the flower will appear to be little “marching soldiers”.  Mix at least two varieties for more interest. Also, use more than one variety of shrubs around the foundation or layer the shrubs for more dimension and  color variation.
                                                               
                     Colored Mulch-it is popular, but somewhat artificial looking.  Natural bark usually appeals to more buyers.

           De clutter- Hide the trash can and recycle bin. Remove any sick plants. Pull any weeds in beds and grass,and re-sod any bare spots. You want your yard to look as if it is easy to maintain, and not a lot of work for the new buyer.  Dress your yard like a fine lady, give her changes for each season, keep her clean and fresh. 

 

Feng Shui Staging Made Easy

As a realtor and stager, I am often asked "What is the difference between traditional staging and feng shui staging?”  Traditional staging usually involves, cleaning, decluttering, neutralizing and positioning the furniture in such a way as to make the home appear more spacious and appealing to a larger audience. Strong wall colors are usually toned down, personal items such as pictures and religious symbols are removed, and collectibles are usually gathered and stored. Often times, stagers and designers will bring in a new element of design or new furniture.

A good feng shui master will customize a home to the needs of the individual but I am attempting to generalize some of the concepts that can be effective in helping a seller market their home. Feng shui staging is more about using what you have and stimulating each of the five senses in a more positive direction.