LeAnn Hill, the Owner and Founder of Imperial Staging and Photography based in Katy, TX believes you only have one chance to make a great first impression. Beginning her real estate career as a photographer, LeAnn now works with homeowners to provide consultation and staging for occupied and vacant homes, in addition to her real estate photography services.
I loved creating backdrops/sets and other Houston area photographers rented our portrait studio to use what I had created. I had a natural ‘eye’ for design. I enjoyed photographing homes but, wanted more. I found myself spending more and more time in the homes I was hired to photograph. I ‘fluffed’ things. I noticed details. I knew enough about composition in photography to create good photos.
LeAnn understands that a staged home creates a feeling and pulls a buyer into a home, moving them from one room to the next. As a professional photographer, LeAnn knows that photographs can tell a story in a home. The buyer wants to know more. She uses proven staging techniques and professional photographs to sell homes quickly and for maximum return on your investment.
I began collecting plants, white towels, pretty soaps, etc. and the Realtors for whom I worked paid a bit extra and knew that I might spend a day in a home photographing it. I took staging courses and earned accreditations. At this point, I rarely provide “whole house” photography. But, I do love creating vignettes and photographing things which help to tell the story of a home.
Learn more about LeAnn:
We asked LeAnn some questions to help you get to know a little more about her.
Photos provided by Imperial Staging and Photography
Where do you draw inspiration from for your staging?
I draw inspiration from other stagers. I am constantly amazed at the work of others. I read “home” books. I watch HGTV. Honestly, I think HGTV introduced staging to many real estate agents and homeowners. I also draw inspiration from nature.
When you are in a rut creatively where do you go or what do you do to get out of it?
I’m very blessed. My assistant is a creative soul.
Photos provided by Imperial Staging and Photography
What do you enjoy to do outside of work?
I love traveling. We owned a vintage Airstream travel trailer for a few years and had a blast simply “unplugging” from our everyday lives. I hope to purchase another camper in the near future. I enjoy hanging out with family… doesn’t really matter what we are doing. Between us, we have 6 kiddos, 1 grand baby and another to arrive any day. We have 2 Australian Labradoodles that we spoil. I love all things Texas Aggie and follow Astros baseball.
Right now I am obsessed with…
I find myself attracted to blues, greens, golds and other colors which I can “pull” thru windows. I love textures.
Photos provided by Imperial Staging and Photography
What is the next step in your staging career?
I’m hoping that my next step in staging is actually making a consistent profit. I made so many mistakes when I began staging. As many others new to the business do, I wanted jobs so badly that I worked myself to death and actually lost money. I feel like I’ve finally reached a place where I’m content quoting what my services are worth.
What project are you really excited about right now and why?
We just began working with a custom home builder with 8 new homes on the horizon. That’s FUN!
Are you managing a team? If so what do you do to keep your employees motivated.
I don’t have a “team”. But, I have an assistant who works her butt off for me. She is incredibly valuable. She believes in me. She believes in us. I always try to give her credit when speaking with agents and homeowners. I couldn’t do this job without her.
Photos provided by Imperial Staging and Photography
What part of owning your own business is the least enjoyable for you and why?
The “unknown” is stressful. I may have a few weeks without a job and then have two weeks with more opportunities than I can handle. Staging is hard work… physically, financially, and mentally. It’s not just decorating and making things pretty.
Why do you choose to be a part of RESA?
I choose to be a part of RESA because I recognize the knowledge and achievements of its members. As a member who is fairly new to the industry, RESA offer a wealth of information.
You can find out more about Imperial Staging and Photography by visiting https://www.imperialstagingandphotos.com/
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