464 Dewey Blvd, San Francisco

Exterior (after): Without even painting the exterior, we dramatically improved curb appeal and revived the handsome architectural appeal of this marina style 5-barrel window home. Landscaping, edging and painting the walkway made maximum difference at minimal cost and time investment.

Living room (before): Sections of walls were torn off, revealing old leaks. Hardwood floors were in ruins. A pest inspection confirmed our fears, extensive dry rot behind the exterior stucco which we’d have to disclose. Even more important to upgrade the appeal within our limited budget.

Living room (after): Our designer offset the warm orange of the wood floors with cool colors. The two-tone paint scheme highlighted the original design intent of this home, while allowing a contemporary look. Staging perfectly complemented paint colors and drew the eyes to the focal point, the fireplace.

Kitchen (before): Appliances didn’t work, we had no budget to replace them. Some cabinet doors were missing. The kick plate below the refrigerator was broken. Hardware was missing at the sink. Two competing wallpaper patterns, neither matched the tiled counter tops.

Kitchen (after): Our designer gets credit for this bold, deep blue, inspired by a hue in the countertop. She finished the cabinetry with new brushed nickel handles. With the open kitchen visible from the dining area, rear deck and other areas this refresh carried throughout for dramatic effect.

Bedroom #1 (before): Massive amounts of wallpaper—in the bedroom, as well as the kitchen, halls and beyond. No good could come of it.

Bedroom #1 (after): With wallpaper and window coverings removed, we found a lovely room underneath. We carried the same pleasant color theme into the hallway and other bedrooms for a consistent, breezy feel which buyers really responded to.

Bedroom #2 (before): Dull and drab, this room had been used as a library or sitting area. It required more than a clean-up to shine like the rest of the house.

Bedroom #2 (after): We converted this room back to its original use as a bedroom. The third bedroom was essential to attracting higher-paying buyers.

Back yard (before): Choked with foliage, this space was completely unusable. We didn’t know what we’d find after the plants were cut back.

Back yard (after): We were concerned about finding an expensive liability like a falling retaining wall when the space was cleared. But the retaining walls were sound and the space was wonderful. We replaced deck planks and supports, painted and projected a lovely lifestyle.

Front door (before): If there was ever a front entrance that said you’re not welcome, this was it.

Front door (after): Hello, this is the place you want to be.

Lower level (before): The rooms were packed with belongings the trustees had argued about for years.

Lower level (after): After weeks, nearly all the items were donated or disposed of. Neither trustee actually wanted the contents.