By Kleopatra Phili, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

“To quote Miles van der Rohe, ‘Less is more’ when it comes to design. Make it simple with heart, to give the magic.  You always want that little X factor, even if it costs a lot.” – Roy D., Interior Architect

Unless you are a licensed architect or interior designer, seek the advice of the experts when preparing to renovate your home —particularly if you plan on selling it. Whether it’s an apartment or a townhouse, know your audience before you renovate, which can be difficult to ascertain if you are not a professional in the real estate industry. 

Across New York City and beyond, I have represented buyers and sellers for properties of all types—from historic townhouses to glimmering new developments.  Sometimes I see decisions by sellers that not only affect whether the property sells, but whether the seller makes or loses millions of dollars.

I connect my clients with experts in interior design and architecture, blending the experts’ talents with my knowledge of what appeals to buyers. One of those experts is Roy D., an interior architect who is a treasured asset for one of my long-term clients. Roy and I discussed what sellers should consider when undertaking renovations:
 
Kleo:  What’s the #1 mistake people make when renovating their townhouse, apartment or building their house?
Roy:  They put too much in. They copy so many things and get a pastiche, losing the simple core of a functional floor plan. 
 
Kleo:  What advice would you give to someone renovating an investment property or building their home, if they do not wish to hire an expert interior architect?  
Roy:  To quote Miles van der Rohe, “Less is more” when it comes to design. Make it simple with heart, to give the magic.  You always want that little X factor, even if it costs a lot.  
 
Kleo:  What’s the most unique item you have ever been asked to create for a client’s home?
Roy:  My design of a main dressing room, with a bridal dress display.  

Kleo:  What do you charge for your design services?
Roy:  It varies on the scope of work. I review an architect’s drawings in PDF form, and I get an impression in my hand and transfer it onto the paper.  Sometimes the scope of work is small -- I can make revisions to the architect’s drawings in a day.

If you are considering renovating your property to achieve maximum ROI, contact Kleopatra Phili for a complimentary market evaluation and a copy of “Kleo’s Renovation Contacts and Checklist.”