Jim Buchta Reassigned?

More Turmoil at Star Tribune

The stager I work with most often, Lori Matzke, mentioned in passing that her regular Saturday column in the Star Tribune is ending. The column was a highlight for many readers, and juxtaposed "before" and "after" staging shots with Lori's (always insightful) commentary.

That's one less reason for people to read (or buy) the paper, which is not a good omen for a publication already in bankruptcy protection, and suffering a precipitous decline in advertising and subscription revenue.

Lori also mentioned that the "dean" of the Strib's real estate reporters, Jim Buchta, had been reassigned to the Travel section. Not sure what the motive was -- and I haven't independently confirmed it.

However, Jim's byline has been conspicuously absent from the real estate section lately.

If true, that would be a real loss: Jim's regular articles (many with me as a source!) were always well-reported and well-documented, and gave readers real insight into the Twin Cities housing market.

P.S.: I wish this was only an April Fool's joke . .

Staging How-to

Star Trib features (my) Lake Calhoun Listing

Want to see a nice piece of staging? Check out the Star Tribune's online housing section (the print version appeared yesterday):

http://www.startribune.com/homes/sell/37008899.html?elr=KArksLckDiUvckDiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiU

The "before" and "after" shots are of an upstairs bedroom -- one of three, and four total - that was initially an afterthought. Post-staging, it's both inviting and a home highlight. My stager, Lori Matzke, worked with the homeowner for several weeks to arrange furniture, recommend paint colors, add accessories and generally show off the home's charm and curb appeal.

Click here to see the rest of the home, 3929 Washburn -- just two blocks south of Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis:

http://matrix.northstarmls.com/de.asp?k=411903X1JL0&p=DE-39096412-320

For more info, please call (612-925-7701) or email me -- I'd be happy to show it to you!