ADDRESS
Welcome
...to the inaugural edition of ADDRESS, the magazine that brings you expert insights, inspiration, and practical advice for achieving success in property sales. Named after our unique ADDRESS approach, our publication is your ultimate resource for learning how to sell your home faster and for the best possible price.
At the helm of ADDRESS is Elaine Penhaul, founder of the multi-award-winning home staging company, Lemon and Lime Interiors. Elaine’s remarkable journey from renovating country homes and managing rental properties to leading the UK’s foremost staging firm in the country market has revolutionised how homes are sold. From redecorating and decluttering cherished lived-in homes to furnishing multi-million-pound new builds, her team consistently transforms properties into buyer magnets.
Elaine’s passion for property staging as a powerful marketing tool has not only shaped her business but has also inspired countless homeowners and industry professionals. Her books, Sell High, Sell Fast and How to Sell Your House, both achieved Amazon #1 best-seller status, empowering readers to unlock the potential in their homes.
Office: 30A Market Place, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8DS
Email: hello@lemonandlimeinteriors.co.uk
Telephone: 01332 987740
Central to Elaine’s success is the ADDRESS approach:
• Assess your property with fresh eyes.
• Declutter to create inviting, open spaces.
• Decorate for broad appeal.
• Re-imagine rooms for their best use.
• Emphasise your property’s unique features.
• Stage it for success.
• Sell with confidence.
Through this proven method, ADDRESS will provide you with actionable strategies, inspiring transformations, and industry insights to help you achieve the best possible outcome when selling your property.
We’re excited to share this journey with you—welcome to the beginning of your staging and selling success!
Front cover image: Whitfield House, Cotswolds.
Stuck in Limbo
What is the Difference between
Home Staging
& Interior Design?
Are you considering a home transformation? While both home staging and interior design involve revamping your living space, their goals and approaches are vastly different. Understanding these distinctions is key to achieving the outcome you desire, whether you’re prepping to sell or creating your dream home.
The Purpose
Home Staging: Sell, sell, sell! Home staging prioritises showcasing a property’s potential for potential buyers. It creates a neutral, inviting atmosphere that allows them to envision themselves living there.
Interior Design: You are the star! Interior design focuses on crafting functional and beautiful spaces that reflect the homeowner’s specific needs and preferences. Comfort, long-term livability, and personal style reign supreme.
Target Audience
Home Staging: Potential buyers are the focus. Staging aims to depersonalise the space, allowing for easy visualisation as their future home.
Interior Design: The homeowner takes centre stage. Interior design caters to the tastes, lifestyle, and requirements of those living in the space, reflecting their unique personality.
Design Approach
Home Staging: Think neutral colour palettes, depersonalised décor, and strategic furniture placement. Home staging creates a universally appealing environment.
Interior Design: Embrace the rainbow! A wide spectrum of styles, colours, and furnishings are used to reflect the homeowner’s individuality. Custom pieces and unique accents often come into play.
Timeline
Home Staging: Speed is key! Staging professionals work efficiently to get a property sale-ready, aiming for a quick turnaround.
Interior Design: Patience is a virtue. A more extended timeline is typical. Designers collaborate closely with homeowners to understand their preferences and create a personalised plan, which can take weeks or months.
Cost Considerations
Home Staging: A cost-effective investment. Staging focuses on minimal décor changes to maximise appeal without breaking the bank.
Interior Design: The price tag can vary greatly. Project complexity, material choices, and renovation scale all influence the final cost.
In essence, home staging is about presenting a property in its best light for a swift sale, while interior design is a deeply personalised process aimed at creating a home that aligns with the occupants’ lifestyle and taste. Both paths contribute significantly to the world of home transformation, each with its unique value and purpose. Whether you’re preparing to sell or planning to enhance your living space, understanding these differences ensures that you make informed decisions, leading to a home that truly resonates with its purpose and inhabitants.
“While both home staging and interior design involve revamping your living space, their goals and approaches are vastly different.”
Lemon and Lime Property Staging
Before & After at Pavello
Time on the market before staging 0 days | Time to first acceptable offer, post-staging 46 days | Cost of staging 0.65% of guide price | Offer accepted Asking price |
This stunning 5,500 sq ft single-storey home, featured on Grand Designs in 2015, initially felt cold and uninviting despite its architectural brilliance. Lemon and Lime Interiors transformed its navy and grey interiors by redecorating with soft greens and neutrals, reflecting the woodland setting visible through expansive windows. External repairs complemented the internal refresh, while vibrant furniture added warmth and comfort. A sale was secured at the asking price within 46 days, with the buyer purchasing 80% of the staged furnishings. Staging cost: 0.65% of the guide price.
The Lemon and Lime Staging Process
At Lemon and Lime, we understand the art of staging isn’t just about making a property look beautiful—it’s about creating a space that buyers can see themselves living in. Our step-by-step staging process is designed to ensure every home is showcased at its very best, leading to faster sales and higher offers.
Here’s how we do it:
Step 1: The First Call
The process begins with a conversation. When you reach out to us or we hear from your agent, we’ll discuss your property, your selling goals, and how our staging services can help. Whether it’s a vacant home needing a complete transformation or an occupied property requiring a refresh, this call allows us to understand your unique needs and determine the best way to move forward.
Step 2: Onsite Consultation
Next, we arrange a visit to the property. During this onsite consultation, our staging experts will walk through the home, assessing its strengths and identifying areas where staging can have the most impact. This is where we start to envision how we’ll enhance the property to attract potential buyers.
We’ll discuss:
• Any furniture or decor currently in the space
• The target market for your property
• Your timeline
Step 3: Photos and Notes
While onsite, we take detailed photographs and notes. This helps us document the layout of the home, measure spaces, and identify key focal points that need attention. These visuals and details ensure our staging plan is perfectly tailored to your property.
Step 4: The Staging Proposal
After our consultation, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive staging quote. This includes:
• A summary of our recommendations
• A clear breakdown of the costs
• A timeline for when the staging will be completed
Our proposals are transparent and tailored, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.
Step 5: Planning and Logistics
Once you approve the quote, our team gets to work behind the scenes. We select furniture, artwork, and accessories from our curated collection, ensuring each piece complements the home’s style and enhances its appeal. If the property is vacant, we’ll plan a full installation; for occupied homes, we’ll carefully integrate your existing items with our enhancements.
Step 6: The Staging Day
This is where the magic happens! On staging day, our experienced team arrives to transform the space. Whether it’s arranging furniture, hanging artwork, or styling accessories, every detail is thoughtfully executed to ensure the property looks its best. We work quickly and efficiently to minimise disruption.
Step 7: Showcasing Your Home
Once staging is complete, your property is ready to impress! Whether for marketing photos, open houses, or private viewings, the staged home will now highlight its full potential, helping buyers fall in love at first sight.
Step 8: Ongoing Support and Removal
When the sale is finalised or the staging period ends, we’ll coordinate a convenient time to remove our furniture and accessories. Our goal is to make the process seamless from start to finish, leaving you stress-free and celebrating a successful sale.
Why Choose Lemon and Lime Interiors?
At Lemon and Lime Interiors, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail, personalised service, and proven results. Our process is designed to make staging straightforward and effective, giving your property the competitive edge it needs in today’s market.
If you’re ready to transform your property and maximise its value, get in touch today! We’d love to guide you through our staging process and help you achieve outstanding results.
Moving House: Top 10 Packing Tips
Moving house is an exciting chapter, brimming with the promise of new beginnings. However, the process of packing and relocating can quickly turn overwhelming without proper planning. To help you tackle the task with confidence and ease, we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 packing tips. These practical pointers will keep you organised, reduce stress, and ensure that everything arrives at your new home safely and ready for the next stage of your adventure. Let’s dive in!
1. Make a list
Although the reasons for moving house are often positive, the move itself can be quite a challenge both physically and mentally, that’s why planning ahead with a packing checklist is the key to a successful start. A list will help you follow the packing steps and stay organised throughout the process. Make sure your lists have a clear structure and are written using bullet points - this way you can tick the items off your list when they are completed.
Tip: To stay organised, start your packing at the top of the house and work your way downstairs.
2. Clear out!
You are starting a new chapter in your life and you don’t want to take the clutter with you to your new home! Did you know that 80% of what we keep we never use?! Thus, make sure you go through all your things before packing them away into boxes - this is the perfect time to sort out and throw out!
Tip: Getting rid of clutter actually eliminates 40% of housework in the average home. So, if you’re not a fan of weekly chores then de-cluttering beforehand will give you a helpful start.
3. Give yourself plenty of time
Start your planning early to avoid unnecessary stress - easier said than done! Trust me, packing always takes longer than you anticipate. Once you start going through your wardrobe, you will find things you never even knew you had! Let the fashion show commence! Leaving yourself fair amount of time will help to smooth out the process.
Tip: On average 80 % of the clothes we wear amounts to only 20 % of our wardrobe. So if you haven’t worn something for more than 6 months, there is a good chance you will not wear it again.
4. Prepare boxes in advance
Calculate how many boxes you will need and get them in advance. This may seem obvious but it’s crucial to mention. Getting a variety of boxes in different sizes will also give you more options when packing so it’s essential you start collecting them early. You can obtain boxes from a variety of places such as supermarkets, discount shops, coffee shops, book shops, recycling centres, fast food chains etc.
Tip: Use old newspapers to wrap around fragile items and remember get plenty of packing tape to secure the boxesit’s better to be safe than sorry!
5. Segregate your things and label the boxes
Making sure your things are organised into themes is essential when unpacking at your new home. You don’t want to open every single box when looking for something after you move in. Sectioning your things into specific places and properly labelling everything may take some extra time while packing but it will be a life saver during the first few weeks in your new home.
Tip: Used toilet roll tubes are handy holders for cables and can be easily written on to identify them. It is also good to pack up all the wires separately for easy access.
6. Don’t overfill the large boxes
They will simply be too heavy to move so make sure you fill with only as much as you can lift to avoid any injures. Don’t put big and heavy items into the large boxes, use small ones instead, that will help to keep your boxes at a reasonable weight.
Tip: Label which boxes are heavy or light to make the loading process even smoother.
7. Pack an ‘essential box’
Prepare one box with all the things you will definitely need during your first day and night at your new home. By doing so, you won’t need to open every single box to reach one item.
Tip: Using a clear plastic box for your essentials will make it easier to locate it among other boxes and it will also be handy when opening and closing multiple times.
8. Pack a separate box with all your documents
Loosing a lamp seems less of a tragedy opposed to misplacing your passport or birth certificate, so remember to pack all of your important documents together and keep them with you the whole time.
Tip: Pack your documents last and make sure they are accessible at all times.
9. Roll your clothes
Rolling clothes is not only more practical when it comes to packing a suitcase and maximising the space, it also reduces the wrinkles in your clothes. So forget about ironing, roll your clothes and when you’re unpacking you can put your clothes straight into your new wardrobe.
Tip: You can use small items of rolled clothing to fill the gaps in other boxes for effective packing. They can also be used as a protection around the fragile items.
10. Protect your things
Last but not least, make sure your expensive things are insured and protected. Even if you already have insurance, it’s important to check if it covers breakages and damage during the move.
Tip: When looking for a removal company, check first that they are fully insured. Give yourself piece of mind knowing your things are safe during transit.
Packing for a house move doesn’t have to be a source of stress. By following these 10 tips, you can streamline the process, stay organised, and even enjoy the journey to your new home. Remember, the key to a successful move is preparation, decluttering, and careful labelling. With these steps in place, you’ll be unpacking and settling into your new space before you know it.
Happy moving, and here’s to making your new house a home!
What is home staging?
Home staging is a property marketing tool which ensures that the presentation attracts multiple potential buyers as quickly as possible in order to create a buzz about the property. It significantly differs from interior design as it is deliberately attracts the likely buyer for a property opposed to designing the interiors to a clients taste.
What are the benefits of using home staging?
Home staging showcases the lifestyle of a property to a potential buyer. In an occupied property it will involve using the home seller’s furniture and the addition of accessories and artwork will complete the look. Some properties require decorating, repair work and gardening, all of which are advised to make sure everything in the house looks as good as it possibly can be to attract a buyer.
In an empty property, it is very difficult for a viewer to imagine themselves living in the space if there is no furniture. In particular, bedrooms look smaller without a bed in and viewers will imagine they can’t fit a king size bed in when in fact they can. Furnishing an vacant property solves this problem.
How much does it cost?
The cost varies depending on what needs doing ahead of the property launching to market. Decorating is quoted on a bespoke basis as it is not always required. When decluttering is necessary at an occupied property, we would suggest a budget of up to 0.5% of the list price. To fully furnish a property ahead of sale, a budget of around 1 – 1.5% of the list price would be reasonable.
What return can I expect from the investment in staging?
In many cases we see properties that we have staged achieving 10-15% over their list price. We operate in the premium end of the property market so that can translate into £100k or 200K over list price meaning that often our clients are getting a 5-10,000% return on their investment in staging.
Clients are extremely happy that they decided to go with a stager and often tell us that it not only alleviates the stress of moving house but is also the best return on investment they have ever made.”
Can staging really increase the number of views I get for my property, or the amount it sells or rents for?
Yes! This is the reason for enlisting the help of a professional stager, to achieve more viewings and ultimately the amount it sells or rents for. We have had great success in achieving sales and rentals for clients in just a few days and in many cases far above the asking price. Clients are extremely happy that they decided to go with a stager and often tell us that it not only alleviates the stress of moving house but is also the best return on investment they have ever made.
Can a staging company take into account the sort of buyers I want to attract?
Yes. The very first stage of the process is for the stager to work with the seller or landlord and their agent to work out who the target buyer/tenant is for the property. This will depend on many factors, the size and location of the property, the price bracket and the existing condition. A stager will deliberately design the staging to attract the target buyer/tenant.
How does the process work?
Either a home seller will contact us directly, or an estate agent will call us on behalf of their clients. We will then speak to the home seller and understand what their goals are for the sale and also the timeline. If the property is empty, then we can quote from floorplans. If not, then we will do an initial consultation free of charge. From there we will make recommendations about the presentation of the property ahead of photos and viewings. From the acceptance of quote it will take a maximum of 2 weeks before the property is ready to be launched to market.
Lemon and Lime Property Staging
Before & After at The Old Barn
Time on the market before staging 0 days | Time to first acceptable offer, post-staging 4 days |
Cost of staging 0.57% of guide price | Offer accepted 11.4% over asking price |
This charming family home in a sought-after village required reimagining after a flood left an extension unused. Lemon and Lime Interiors transformed the space into a luxurious sitting room with velvet sofas, while musical instruments and gym equipment were relocated to bettersuited areas. Decluttering and carefully added accessories elevated the home’s appeal. The result? A sale agreed within four days at 11% above the guide price. Staging cost: 0.57% of the guide price, delivering exceptional returns.
Choosing the Right Home Stager
Home staging is continuing to increase in the UK market with more and more homeowners realising the value in using a stager to get the best results for their property. It is important that you find the right stager for you and your property. Stagers provide services right from the lower to upper end of the market, some specialise in occupied properties, others in show homes. Every property is different and requires different help. Remember, this will be the team you trust to prepare your home to look its absolute best for marketing. Does the quality of their work reflect the look you want?
We’ve put together some tips on things to look out for when choosing your home stager below.
How many years’ experience do they have in the industry?
In home staging, experience means much more than certification. It’s important that your stager can identify the areas of the property which need focus. You should expect them to have some background in property, remember staging is a property marketing tool not a branch of interior design.
How do they charge?
This may be by the hour, per project or linked to property value. They may charge up front or on completion of the sale. This should be very clear and if they work on an hourly rate you will want an estimate of the time involved.
What’s the average value of the properties they stage?
If you are selling a multi-million pound property you need to trust someone to handle a project in a property of this value. If the work they are showing from their portfolio appears to be at the lower end of the market they are probably not for you. The furniture and the rest of the solution needs to match the property value.
Can they offer the services you need?
Every property is different and particularly with larger properties there is a need for additional services when selling. Finding a stager who can provide trustworthy tradespeople will save you time in trying to source these. Some stagers offer additional services such as decluttering, removals, cleaning, decorating, moving-in service and much more.
Have you seen their past work and case studies?
The best way to judge someone’s work is through their past experience. Ask for before and after images so you can see the transformation. Make sure that the portfolio you are being shown is the stager’s own work and not taken from elsewhere. If you are being shown stock images then they likely haven’t done any jobs worth photographing. Do they have data to support their claims of the return on investment of staging.
Have you read their testimonials?
A reputable home stager will have a number of client testimonials. These would usually be displayed on their website but if in doubt you can look for reviews on Google. That way you can make sure the company has a history of happy and satisfied customers.
Which estate agents do they work with?
Not all stagers work through estate agents but if they come recommended by more than one agent that is a good start
What is the typical lead time for a project?
We would expect a maximum of two weeks from confirmation of quote unless there is major decorating to be done. Neither vendor nor agent will want to wait for a stager to source the perfect sofa!
Can they explain their process for preparing a property for sale?
The process needs to be clear and focused on maximising the sale price. A good stager should be able to source decorators, general maintenance contractors, gardeners etc very quickly so that nothing delays getting the property onto the market. You don’t need a stager who waffles about how lovely they will make your home look, you need someone who is focuses on achieving the best sale possible for you through the work they do.
What is your initial feeling?
Is the stager well turned out and do they appear organised? You are about to sell your biggest asset, it is important that your stager is professional and committed to your project. You need to know that they are going to stick to timescales too to ensure you are not waiting to get onto the property market.
Stuck in Limbo
What Are The 5 Possible Reasons Your Home Isn’t Selling?
Putting a house on the market is often accompanied by a mixture of anticipation and excitement. However, when weeks turn into months without a promising offer in sight, that initial enthusiasm can morph into frustration. If your home isn’t selling as quickly as you hoped, it’s essential to explore potential reasons for this delay. In this blog, we’ll delve into five possible culprits that might be preventing your home from finding its new owner.
Incorrect Pricing: The Goldilocks Principle
Pricing is arguably the most critical factor influencing a property’s sale. If your home is priced too high, potential buyers may overlook it in favour of more competitively priced options. Conversely, pricing it too low might raise suspicions about hidden issues. The key is finding the “just right” price, one that aligns with your home’s market value and comparable properties in your area. Enlisting an Estate Agent can help you strike this balance.
Kerb Appeal Quandary
The first impression your home makes is often the most lasting. If your home’s exterior is unkempt or unattractive, potential buyers might not be enticed to step inside. Poor landscaping, peeling paint, or a neglected entrance can all contribute to a lack of interest. Ensuring your home’s kerb appeal is inviting and well-maintained can significantly impact buyers’ initial perception.
Clutter and Personalisation Overload
When potential buyers walk into your home, they want to envision themselves living there. Personal belongings and clutter can hinder this process, as they make it challenging for buyers to visualise their lives in the space. By decluttering and depersonalising your home you are creating a blank canvas for them to imagine their own furnishings and lifestyle in the space. Further, you are telling them you care about them and will be interested enough to push the sale through quickly and efficiently.
Neglected Repairs and Maintenance
Unaddressed repairs and maintenance issues can be red flags for potential buyers. They will imagine the cost of repair is greater than it is and be put off. It can also make them wary of hidden expenses. Before listing your home, take care of any necessary repairs and conduct maintenance to ensure your property is move-in ready.
Ensuring your home’s kerb appeal is inviting and well-maintained can significantly impact buyers’ initial perception.”
Inadequate Marketing Efforts
In today’s digital age, effective marketing is crucial for attracting potential buyers. If your home isn’t being marketed strategically, it might not be reaching its target audience. High-quality photographs, well-written descriptions, and engaging online listings can significantly boost your property’s visibility. Consider working with an Estate Agent who can leverage their expertise to market your home effectively. However, remember, they can only work with what they are given and don’t have a magic wand.
When your home doesn’t sell as quickly as you anticipated, it’s natural to feel frustrated. However, identifying the potential reasons for the delay can empower you to take corrective action. Whether it’s adjusting the price, enhancing kerb appeal, decluttering, addressing repairs, or refining your marketing strategy, there are steps you can take to give your home the best chance of attracting a buyer. Remember that the property market is dynamic, and a proactive approach to addressing these challenges can make all the difference in finding the right buyer for your home.
Take the first step towards successfully selling your home! Call Lemon & Lime Interiors today on 01332987740 to discover how our expertise in home staging can transform your property and attract potential buyers.
Smells Don’t Sell
When it comes to selling a house, homeowners often focus on enhancing its visual appeal, ensuring every nook and cranny is spotless. However, one crucial aspect frequently overlooked is the sense of smell. The adage “smells don’t sell” couldn’t be truer when it comes to enticing potential buyers. After years of living in a space, homeowners become accustomed to its unique aroma, whether pleasant or not. It takes an unbiased perspective to identify and eliminate any lingering odours that might be deterring prospective buyers.
Identifying the Culprits
Bad smells can be a major turn-off for those looking to purchase a property. Whether it’s the scent of pets, cigarette smoke, dampness, or other less-than-pleasant odours, these can create a negative first impression. Rather than attempting to mask these smells with heavy sprays, it’s essential to address the source directly.
Top Tips for Eliminating Bad Smells
Cigarette Smoke: For smokers, placing bowls of vinegar around the house for three days can help neutralize the odour. Removing furniture with embedded smoke smells is also advisable.
Pet Odour: Employing a local carpet and upholstery cleaning service can effectively eliminate pet odours from carpets and furniture.
Damp: Combat damp smells by placing a bowl of clean cat litter close to the source. Cat litter’s absorbent properties can help alleviate the issue after a few days.
Deceased Estate Odour: Homes being sold as part of a deceased estate can carry a distinct smell. Changing the carpets throughout the house is often the most effective solution.
Cooking Smells: If your house has absorbed spicy or fried cooking smells, wash cabinets with warm water and soap to eliminate lingering odours.
Creating Inviting Aromas
On the flip side, pleasant smells can make a home feel welcoming and memorable to potential buyers. Consider incorporating the following tips:
Bake Fresh Goods: The aroma of freshly baked bread and cakes can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Brew Fresh Coffee: The scent of freshly brewed coffee is universally appealing and can add a comforting touch during viewings.
Use Diffusers: Employing diffusers with a consistent fragrance throughout the house can leave a lasting impression on visitors, making your home stand out in their memory.
Addressing the smells in your home is an essential step in preparing it for sale. By eliminating unpleasant odours and incorporating inviting scents, you significantly enhance the overall appeal of your property. If you’re uncertain about how your home might be perceived, seeking a professional and honest opinion before listing it on the market can be a wise decision.
Contact us today on 01332 987740 or hello@lemonandlimeinteriors.co.uk for a thorough assessment of your property’s market readiness.
Remember, when it comes to selling your home, smells truly don’t sell!
We are delighted to share the exciting news that Elaine Penhaul, the visionary entrepreneur behind Lemon and Lime Interiors, has been recognised with not one, but two prestigious business awards. These accolades highlight her outstanding contributions to growing a national home staging business and empowering women in the industry.
Elaine’s leadership and dedication to excellence continue to inspire, solidifying her place as a trailblazer in the world of entrepreneurship and creative industries.
MP HERoes Businesswoman Award
Elaine was recently awarded the MP HERoes Businesswoman award for the South Derbyshire constituency by Samantha Niblett MP. This recognition is part of a cross-party initiative from Savvitas in partnership with NatWest, celebrating women who are driving change and making significant contributions to their communities and industries.
Elaine’s award acknowledges her commitment to:
• Expanding opportunities for women in the home staging and property industry.
• Creating a thriving national business that leads the way in home staging innovation.
• Being a role model for female entrepreneurs across Derbyshire and beyond.
The MP HERoes award shines a spotlight on women who are making a difference locally and nationally, and Elaine’s achievements exemplify these values.
Great British Entrepreneur Award
Elaine also took home the Creative Entrepreneur of the Year award at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, often referred to as the “Grammys of entrepreneurship.” These awards celebrate the ingenuity, hard work, and inspiring stories of entrepreneurs across the UK.
Elaine was recognised for her innovation and leadership in transforming Lemon and Lime Interiors into a national success. Competing against a shortlist of remarkable talent from the Midlands, Elaine’s win is a testament to her dedication to creative excellence and her ability to inspire others in the property industry.
The Negotiator Award
In addition to Elaine’s recent award wins, Lemon and Lime Interiors is thrilled to announce its recognition at The Negotiator Awards—the UK’s leading and most prestigious independent awards programme for the estate and letting agency industry. Lemon and Lime Interiors was highly commended in the Supplier of the Year – Products and Services (Marketing) category, an accolade that underscores our dedication to delivering exceptional services to the residential property sector.
These awards are celebrated for their commitment to fairness and transparency, making them the most valued and respected honours in the industry. They shine a light on excellence within estate and letting agencies, while also recognising the vital contributions of suppliers like Lemon and Lime Interiors.
Being highly commended in this category is a testament to our innovative approach to home staging and marketing within the property industry. It reflects the hard work and creativity of our team, who strive to provide transformative services that help properties stand out in a competitive market.
This recognition at The Negotiator Awards further highlights the positive impact Lemon and Lime Interiors is making, not only for property sellers but also for the broader residential property sector. It is an honour to be acknowledged alongside so many outstanding professionals and businesses who share our passion for excellence.
Empowering Women and Leading by Example
Elaine’s journey as the founder of Lemon and Lime Interiors is one of resilience, creativity, and a drive to support others. Through her work, she has not only revolutionized the way properties are prepared for sale but has also fostered opportunities for women to thrive in the industry.
By offering training and mentorship, Elaine continues to pave the way for the next generation of female entrepreneurs, showing that success is built on collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering belief in one’s vision.
These awards mark a significant milestone for Elaine and the team at Lemon and Lime Interiors. As the business continues to grow, so does Elaine’s commitment to excellence and her mission to make home staging an essential part of the property selling process across the UK.
The Impact of Professional Presentation
Selling your home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make. At Lemon and Lime, we understand that first impressions, standout marketing, and tailored presentation strategies can make all the difference. By investing in professional property presentation, you can achieve faster sales, higher offers, and a seamless selling experience—all while gaining confidence in your property’s value.
Let’s explore how enhancing your home’s presentation can benefit you, the seller.
1. First Impressions Matter
When buyers first step into your home, the impression they form in those critical moments can make or break their interest. A well-staged, clean, and thoughtfully arranged property doesn’t just look beautiful—it feels inviting. Professional presentation highlights your home’s best features and ensures that potential buyers see its full potential.
Imagine walking into a clutter-free, polished living space that feels like it could be your dream home. That’s the power of presentation.
2. Standout Marketing Materials
A beautifully presented property doesn’t just shine during viewings—it also transforms your online and offline marketing. High-quality photos and videos of a professionally staged home attract more attention on property portals, social media, and brochures.
When buyers see visually stunning listings, they’re more likely to schedule viewings, leading to more competition for your property. This ensures you’re not only selling quickly but at the best possible price.
3. Stay Ahead of the Competition
The property market can be crowded, with buyers often overwhelmed by choices. Professional presentation gives your home a competitive edge, helping it stand out. Staging services, garden maintenance, and decluttering can turn your property into a showstopper.
This added value makes your home more appealing to buyers, ensuring it doesn’t just blend in with the rest.
4. Maximise Your Sale Price
Well-presented homes often achieve higher sale prices. Buyers form an emotional connection with a space that feels ready to live in, making them more willing to meet or exceed asking prices.
At Lemon and Lime, we have helped countless sellers achieve impressive offers through thoughtful, impactful staging.
5. Build Confidence and Trust with Buyers
When buyers view a property that’s impeccably presented, it sends a clear message: the home has been cared for and is worth the investment. This sense of trust can be the deciding factor in their purchasing decision.
Our tailored approach ensures your home reflects professionalism and attention to detail—qualities that buyers value and trust.
6. Personalised Solutions for Your Home
No two homes are the same, and neither are their buyers. That’s why we create bespoke strategies that highlight your property’s unique features. Whether it’s turning a spare room into a cosy study or transforming an underused space into a chic gym, we ensure every corner of your home adds value.
7. Proven Results: Case Study – Bower Hill
Take, for example, the transformation of a period home at Bower Hill. With 13 bedrooms and a busy household, the property needed help showcasing its true potential. Our team worked with the sellers to:
• Reimagine bedrooms into luxurious spaces, including studies and dressing rooms.
• Declutter and reorganise family areas to create inviting spaces.
• Add furniture and accessories to present alternative uses for unused rooms, such as a cinema, gym, and boot room.
The result? An offer of 8.5% over the guide price within just two weeks of listing. The seller’s investment in staging and decluttering was minimal—just 0.15% of the property’s value.
At Lemon and Lime, we are always looking for ways to elevate our services and provide unparalleled value to our clients. Historically, we have managed logistics in-house, overseeing every aspect of furniture storage, delivery, and removal for our projects. While this approach has served us well, we believe in constantly refining and improving our processes. That’s why we are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Abels, a highly reputable logistics and removals company with a track record of excellence.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in ensuring that every project we undertake is executed with precision and care, reinforcing our commitment to client satisfaction.
Why Abels Removals?
Choosing the right partner is essential for maintaining the high standards we set for ourselves. Abels has earned its reputation as a leader in the industry, known for its exceptional service, meticulous attention to detail, and dedication to delivering seamless logistics solutions. Abels Moving Services were granted a Royal Warrant for Removals and Storage Services by appointment to Her Late Majesty The Queen in 1988. Any firm with a Royal Warrant has to continuously provide exemplary service to its customers.
Here are a few reasons why Abels stood out to us:
1. Industry Expertise
With decades of experience in the removals and logistics sector, Abels has honed its ability to handle even the most complex projects. Their expertise ensures that our furniture is stored, transported, and delivered with the utmost care.
2. State-of-the-Art Storage Facilities
All of our furniture is now stored at Abels' secure and modern warehouse facilities. These facilities are equipped to protect our inventory, ensuring it remains in pristine condition until it's ready to be delivered to a client’s property.
3. Tailored Support for Every Project
Every property we furnish is unique, and Abels is equipped to adapt to our specific requirements. From careful handling of delicate items to efficient removals when needed, their team aligns perfectly with our high standards.
4. Commitment to Client Satisfaction
Like us, Abels prioritises customer happiness above all else. This shared value forms the foundation of our partnership, allowing us to work together seamlessly to deliver an exceptional client experience.
What This Means for Our Clients
By entrusting Abels Removals with our logistics needs, we can focus even more on what we do best: creating beautiful, functional spaces tailored to our clients’ needs.
This partnership ensures that:
• On-Time Deliveries: Furniture is delivered exactly when it’s needed, helping projects stay on schedule.
• Careful Handling: Every item is treated with care, minimising the risk of damage.
• Streamlined Processes: Whether it’s delivery, installation, or removal, the process is smooth and efficient.
• Peace of Mind: Clients can rest easy knowing their property and belongings are in safe hands.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward with this partnership, we’re excited about the possibilities it brings. Collaborating with Abels allows us to scale our operations, handle more complex logistics, and ultimately deliver an even higher quality of service to our clients.
We believe that partnerships like these are the key to growth and excellence. We’re confident that this collaboration will help us continue to set new benchmarks in the industry.
We look forward to sharing the benefits of this partnership with our clients and showcasing the difference it makes in our projects. Stay tuned for updates and success stories as we embark on this exciting new chapter with Abels Removals.
Operating now for over 60 years, Abels has always remained fully committed to ensure each and every client receives only the very best in service excellence. Collaborative partnerships have been key to much of our success, particularly in recent years as we have continued to enhance our concierge offering.
Our partnership with Lemon & Lime not only allows us to showcase our logistical and warehousing capabilities, but also adds another crucial offering for our own clients wishing to maximise their property’s potential through the expert vision of the multi award-winning Lemon & Lime team. I was immediately struck by the dedication, professionalism, and numerous success stories that Lemon & Lime proudly boasts. I could not think of a more fitting partnership for Abels as we embark on this exciting, journey together.”
Kavan McCullagh Director of Sales, Abels moving Services Ltd.
We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Lumon, a trusted currency exchange provider known for their expertise in navigating international money transfers. At Lemon and Lime, we’re always looking for ways to offer our clients value-added services, and this collaboration ensures that you’ll have access to reliable, efficient, and expert currency solutions when selling or buying property abroad.
Who Are Lumon?
Lumon is more than just a currency exchange service—they’re a team of dedicated professionals who make cross-border payments simple and stress-free. Whether you’re purchasing your dream home overseas, managing living expenses abroad, or paying for international goods and services, Lumon’s specialist market knowledge ensures a smooth transaction every time.
Their dedicated account managers work closely with clients to:
• Navigate local regulations and processes: Leave the complexities of international transfers to the experts.
• Deliver market insights: Make informed decisions with up-to-date information about currency trends.
• Save you time and hassle: Lumon’s streamlined process ensures transactions are completed quickly and securely.
What Does This Mean for Lemon and Lime Clients?
For our clients, this partnership brings an additional layer of support during one of the most significant transactions of your life—selling or buying property.
Here’s how Lumon can help:
1. Effortless Money Transfers
Moving large sums of money across borders can be daunting. Lumon simplifies the process, ensuring your funds arrive safely and efficiently, no matter the destination.
2. Expert Advice on Currency Markets
Currency fluctuations can impact the value of your transaction. Lumon’s market specialists offer tailored advice to help you transfer funds at the right time, potentially saving you money.
3. Peace of Mind
With dedicated account managers guiding you through the process, you’ll have a trusted partner handling the details, so you can focus on what matters most.
Why We Chose Lumon
At Lemon and Lime, we pride ourselves on offering bespoke solutions that simplify the property journey for our clients. Lumon’s commitment to personalised service and their track record of excellence aligns perfectly with our values. We’ve been friends with the team at Lumon for a number of years now and we’re confident that our clients will have access to a reliable and efficient service that complements our home staging expertise.
Selling your home is about more than just listing it—it’s about creating a premium marketing strategy that captures buyers’ attention and inspires confidence. To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to understand what today’s buyers are looking for and how to meet their expectations. Is Your Property Marketing Strategy
At Lemon and Lime, we work with homeowners to ensure their properties stand out in the market. Let’s explore the three essential elements of a successful property marketing strategy—Price, Presentation, and Promotion—and how getting them right can transform your selling experience.
1. Pricing It Right
You may have already received valuations from multiple agents, each suggesting a different price for your property. It’s tempting to gravitate toward the highest valuation and lowest fee, but choosing the right agent isn’t just about numbers—it’s about strategy.
A premium agent will take the time to:
• Explain pricing models and why their valuation reflects the true market value.
• Share a clear plan for finding the best buyer, not just the first offer.
• Highlight how investing in expert marketing can achieve a higher final price.
Understanding this approach can help you make an informed decision about your sale, ensuring you avoid overpricing or underestimating your home’s worth.
2. Presentation That Wows
Buyers form opinions about a property in seconds, making presentation one of the most powerful tools in your selling strategy. A premium agent knows this and will ensure your property is market-ready, with every detail polished to perfection.
What does great presentation include?
• Professional Photos and Floorplans: High-quality visuals make your listing irresistible.
• Personalised Descriptions: A compelling property description speaks directly to buyers’ desires.
• Home Staging: Thoughtful staging transforms your space, showcasing its potential and helping buyers imagine themselves living there.
Sellers who prioritise presentation typically see faster sales and higher offers. If your agent isn’t discussing staging as part of their strategy, it might be time to ask why.
3. Smart, Targeted Promotion
A property listing is only as good as its visibility. While many agents rely solely on property portals, a premium agent will go the extra mile, leveraging innovative promotional strategies to reach the right audience.
Key promotional tactics include:
• Social Media Campaigns: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer cost-effective ways to showcase your home to thousands of potential buyers.
• Consistent Branding: A polished, professional look builds trust and sets your property apart.
• Creative Marketing Materials: Eye-catching brochures, videos, and targeted ads draw attention and create buzz.
When your home is promoted effectively, it attracts serious buyers who are willing to pay a premium for a property that feels special.
The Secret to a Seamless Sale:
Balancing All Three
Neglecting just one of these elements—Price, Presentation, or Promotion—can leave your home lingering on the market longer than necessary. Getting all three right from the start ensures your property appeals to the right buyers and achieves the best possible results.
Before & After at Lower Roxhill Farmhouse
Time on the market before staging 0 days | Time to first acceptable offer, post-staging 1 week | Cost of staging 1.25% of guide price | Offer accepted 2% over guide price |
This Grade II Listed 16th-century farmhouse was empty and spotless but needed warmth and modern appeal. Lemon and Lime Interiors staged each room with a clear purpose, adding a breakfast room and a luxurious dressing room to maximise family-friendly functionality. One outbuilding became a home gym, completing the transformation. The thoughtful staging balanced contemporary elegance with period charm, achieving a sale 2% over the guide price within a week. Staging cost: 1.25% of the guide price, highlighting the value of presentation.
