Dozens of designers,
landscape architects and contractors transformed the 11,000-square-foot Tudor
home's rooms into showpieces, all at little cost to the seller. The 1980s
kitchen—likely to turn off potential buyers—was gutted and rebuilt with the
sleek cabinets, intricate tiling and Sub-Zero refrigerator that shoppers
were likely to look for. A modern limestone soaking tub replaced a dated,
wood-paneled Jacuzzi tub, and tired landscaping was refreshed, said Ms.
Pomphrey, an agent with Coldwell Banker Previews International in Rumson, N.J.
"Now, you could just move right in," she said.
Decorator show
homes are a beloved tradition in many U.S. cities. The show-home season
typically kicks off when the warm weather sets in, and the homes stay open to
the public for three or four weeks. Visitors pay an admission fee of between
$25 and $60 to tour the homes; the money is usually earmarked for a charity.
After paying for things like insurance and electricity, most show homes raise
between $100,000 and $200,000, organizers say.
But charities aren't the only beneficiaries. Show homes
thrive on sponsors and donations: Few involved are paid for their work, though
almost everyone aims to benefit. Designers put their best work forward to
attract new clients. Furniture and equipment suppliers receive free publicity.
And the homeowner is often looking for help improving—and ultimately selling—the
home.
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