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sell home

we-answer-wednesday-quick-bathroo

“I am in need of a makeover for my bathroom.  I don’t have a big budget so I cannot renovate but I need some quick and easy ideas to freshen up my bathroom.”

 

The bathroom is one of the smallest but also one of the most used rooms in the home.  A renovated bathroom can be costly and time consuming but you definitely have some easy updates that are quick and affordable that can really make a splash!

 

Try working with the colour scheme in the bathroom instead of against it.

  So if you have coloured tile – add some complimentary colour in there.  If you fight with the colour or ignore it – you won’t get the end result you want!

 

Change up the textiles

– easy and affordable! So add a new shower curtain and liner, add some new towels too and maybe even a bathmat! Stay from toilet covers…

 

Add some fresh bling

– so switch out your old cabinetry hardware and add some new knobs or handles! This is a quick change but it really makes a difference (this is also a great update for a kitchen). If you are handy, you could even update your towel bar an toilet paper holder.

Switch up your mirror

– adding a new mirror with a decorative frame will instantly freshen up your space and give it a custom look and feel without the custom price tag! If your lighting is looking a bit dated (and you are handy) consider updating the lighting as well.

Add some accessories

– a plant, some art, candles, new soap dispensers – easy updates that make the space feel and look new again!

If you are looking to take it to the next level, consider paint!

It’s a small space so it would be a quick weekend job but be sure to get the right paint so let the salesperson know that you are painting a bathroom.

Sprucing up your bathroom is also a great idea if you are considering selling your home.  When we stage bathrooms we like to keep them clean and clutter free but also styled in neutral tones and add some accessories to set the scene.

The bathroom might be small but don’t forget to make it beautiful too,

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we-answer-wednesday-colour-in-my-a

“We live in a new home and we were able to pick all of our interior finishes.  We both love a white bathroom – it is so clean but our master bathroom is completely white and although we love the white it’s just too white! What can we do to add some colour to the bathroom without an expensive renovation?”

 

White is a great ‘colour’ for a bathroom – it’s clean, it’s fresh and it’s timeless! But you are right too much of anything isn’t good.  Any room in one tone starts to look and feel a little one dimensional over time but have no fear, we are here to help!

 

Even though the bathroom is a small space, you do have a lot of opportunity to add colour, texture and personality to your bathroom.

 

1 – Shower Curtain

– pattern, colour and maybe even texture.  To keep it simple, use the shower curtain as your inspiration or jumping off point for the other elements like the linens, paint etc…Be sure to have a liner so your shower curtain is protected from the water in the shower

2 – Lovely linens

– towels and a bath mat can add colour, pattern and texture. The texture of the linens adds some softness to the bathroom (which is already full of hard and smooth textures) and try mixing some colour and pattern with your towels.

 

3 – Framed art

– look for some wall space to hang some colourful or calming art.  Photography is also a great way to add some personality to the bathroom. Find art that adds to the mood you want in the space.  there is no wrong answer and no price tag…go with what works!

 

4 – Unique lighting

– lighting is a great way to add some personality.  Overhead, vanity, sconces – bathroom lighting doesn’t have to be boring.  It can add drama, glamour, elegance or even a funky vibe to your bathroom.  There are so many options for lighting and it can really enhance the look of your space – not matter what room it is!

 

5 – “Custom” mirror

– replace your builder grade basic with something framed – there are many options – this automatically and (easily) adds a custom look and feel to the bathroom.  Double sink, add 2 matching mirrors and matching vanity lighting – a very upscale look (this is also a great upgrade if you are considering selling your home).  We love this image because it mixes the framed ‘custom’ mirror with bold wallpaper and these sconces.  Such an elevated and upscale powder room

 

6 – Display space

– small floating shelves over the toilet or maybe a small corner on the counter top or maybe even around your tub (it depends on the layout of your bathroom and the amount of space you have).  Try adding some plant or flowers, candles and vases are also a nice touch.  We love using a small tray to group your display items together.

 

7 – Touches of wood

– a few wood accents can really break up the wood and add an organic spa feel to the space. Think small accessories, wood frames mirrors, bathroom stool even wicker baskets for toiletries

 

8 – Paint!  

adding paint colour (or wallpaper) to the walls will definitely change up the look of the bathroom and give it instant personality. Be sure to think about how you want the bathroom to feel and let that steer you towards the paint.  Something calm should have a soft and soothing tone but it you want drama opt for depth.  Because the base is white you have so many possibilities

 

9 – Get Creative

– try using an unexpected piece in the bathroom like a stool or side table, these are great by the bathtub and it really adds some personality, too

The great news about having an all white bathroom is that you truly have a blank canvas and you can add any accent you like.  Wood and other organic textures with calm tones can give your bathroom a beach-y or spa feel; black and a metallic accent like gold can give the room a luxe or glam feel; adding aqua or even a soft pink gives the bathroom a retro look….the possibilities are endless!

An all white bathroom is clean and fresh but add a few accents to make the space more pleasing…

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we-answer-wednesday-closet-space

“When you are selling your home do you need to stage closets and other storage spaces like the unfinished basement and garage?”

One of the first things buyers look for in a home is space, especially more storage space. 

Buyers will be opening up and peeking in storage spaces like kitchen cabinets, pantries, closets, vanities and other storage areas in the home.

 

It’s ideal to go through all your closets, kitchen cabinets or any cabinets that are provided in built-ins and included in the sale of the home. Buyers are nosy and they want to know what they’re buying so focus on organizing and packing up items you won’t need while on the market.

You really want to show off all of the features of the home and storage is a big must for buyers.

Remove as much clutter as you can and start pre-packing.  You will be taking it with you anyway, so pack what you don’t need (while living in the home during the selling period) and look into storing it off site maybe with a family member or a good friend.

For ‘staging’  your storage, follow these tips:

– In bathrooms:

use small baskets or trays to keep everyday hygiene items looking neat and tidy.

– In the kitchen:

be sure that cabinets are neat and tidy (no tupperware overflowing), pantry is organized, and be sure not to store items (decorative or functional) above the cabinetry or fridge it looks messy and it screams that there is a lack of storage

– In all closets:

be sure to hang clothing, be sure that the closets aren’t over stuffed, remove items from the floor (unless they belong there) and fold items that don’t need to be hung.

– In unfinished storage areas like the basement and garage:

they are used for storage so ‘stuff’ is expected but keep it organized and tidy in boxes and bins – people will want to see where they can store seasonal decor items and sports equipment like skis.

 

Remember the person buying your home is buying their new home…

so make every aspect of the home exciting from the kitchens and bathrooms to storage spaces.

When it comes to staging your home for sale – it’s always a good idea to remove that clutter (don’t waste time, money and energy packing and moving things you don’t need).

Present an organized home – it looks and feels great plus it sends the message to buyers that there’s lots of storage here and that’s something all buyers are looking for!

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we-answer-wednesday-curb-appea

“My husband and I will be putting our home on the market but not for a few months.  By the time, it is listed for sale we will be in Sunny Florida. The interior of the home will be clean and tidy, plus it will be furnished but do we need to get regular outdoor maintenance taken care of?”

 

It’s so great that you are planning ahead for the sale of your home.  The interior of the home being clean, tidy and staged is great but don’t forget about the exterior!  Yes, everyone loves to see a beautifully manicured lawn, lush and colourful gardens and green trees in the summer months but that doesn’t mean that curb appeal doesn’t play a role in the other months, too.

 

Curb appeal isn’t just a summer thing, it’s important year round! The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers will see and if it is not well maintained that could be a bit of a red flag to buyers.  You also you want to make a good first impression and a welcoming one, too.  And in the winter months, not maintaining your exterior can also be a safety issue – those are equally important factors when it comes to selling your home.

 

The summer months are definitely the prettiest months for curb appeal but a well maintained exterior is noticeable all year long. So much of the monthly maintenance is dependent on your climate but here are some helpful tips.

 

In the fall months –

*sweep the porch and walkway, and driveway
*make sure all light bulbs are in working order (the days are getting shorter so lights will be very important)
*the grass is still growing so be sure to have it cut
*for some extra curb appeal some fall planters or a wreath maybe even some pumpkins to celebrate the fall season.

 

In the winter months-

*be sure to shovel the porch,driveway and walkways,
*salt or sand those areas too
*again be sure that the light bulbs are fully functional and set to turn on at dusk, this is great for showings but also anyone driving by
*to add some extra curb appeal you can add a winter wreath!

 

In the spring months-

*the grass isn’t quite green yet but the flowers are starting to bloom (depending on the climate) so give your lawn a bit of a rake to remove any winter debris
*clear off the porch, walkways and driveways (debris, salt/sand and any garbage)
*for some extra impact bring out some colourful outdoor pillows to any bench or seating, add a spring floral wreath
*later in the spring add some planters with spring flowers to add some colour

 

Before you put your home on the market be sure to check that your exterior has the following:

– a clear address plate (you want buyers and agents to find your property)
– the paint on the front door isn’t chipped or peeling
– the front steps are in good condition
– the mail box, grip set and door bell are in good working condition
– windows close and open easily
– the exterior materials (brick, siding etc…) are in good condition

Any buyer that comes to your home should be ‘WOW’ed by it and it shouldn’t matter if it is May or January.  Make that impression every time!

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home-staging-bathroom

 The bathroom is a key room that buyers focus on. Home Staging is an important step when selling your home.  You really need to set yourself apart from the pack and you want to do that by putting your best foot forward! The bathroom is one of the most used rooms in a home and it is a hot spot for buyers.  Buyers want to see an amazing bathroom – updates, clean and perfect! Home Staging can really set the scene for those buyers and create that picture perfect bathroom. 

Here are some simple ways to Stage your bathroom :

 

Paint those walls in a neutral tone.

A fresh coat of paint goes a long way and always make a space look and feel clean.  Plus a bathroom is a small space so if you are doing the painting yourself, it isn’t a huge project.  But be sure to tell your paint supplier that you are painting a bathroom that way you will get the right blend of paint.  Opt for a neutral tone.  It is more universal and is appealing for most buyers. 

I recommend choosing a neutral tone that works with the current tones in the house.  So if you have beige walls opt for a tone with a warm undertone a cream or even a very warm grey would work.  Don’t start a whole new look, colour palette and style in the bathroom – it will chop up the house.

 

Lighting, you want to make sure you have enough!

Task lighting over the vanity and recessed lighting are key! Make sure your bulbs are as bright as possible and in working condition (that goes for the whole house).

Accessories really make a difference and are an affordable way to really set the scene.

Small fake plants are a nice touch. There are many plants that are artificial but you can even tell! Choose a plant to place on your counter top or on another surface you have such as a shelf, toilet, edge of a bathtub.

 

 
I love candles in a bathroom.
I think it gives the space a serene feel and they smell great! Beautiful candle holders, or just candles on their own are another great layer to add to the bathroom accessory list. You can have one large or a grouping of smaller ones. Choose something you love. 
 
 
 
 

Art is a nice touch as well.

Somewhere in the bathroom you will likely have a bit of wall space for a small piece or two. Add something that goes nicely with your previously selected colour palette. It doesn’t have to all be the same as what you have but something with a hint of consistency will blend beautifully into the space. 

 

 
 
Small trays for jewelry and personal items are a functional and pretty option to keep on the counter top. Choose something shiny!  Maybe something that matches the handles in your bathroom such as gold, chrome or brass. The continuation of similar metals makes your space look well thought out, and very harmonious.  
But don’t leave too much jewelry on display or anything really expensive!
 
 

The key is to repeat a colour.

 
Having 7 different colours, patterns and textures may seem like a good idea, but it will likely just have an eclectic feel. Try to use some consistency and repeat an accent colour you have already started with.
 
 
And of course, the easiest thing to do – is give that bathroom a really good clean!
For anyone looking to sell their home, staging your bathroom it really sets the scene for buyers.
The bathroom is a hot spot that buyers look for so show it off with simple accessories, light and neutral colour palette.
Create that ‘dream’ bathroom for those buyers!


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we-answer-wednesday-family-photos

“I always hear on real estate TV shows when the agents are giving home staging advice that the home sellers need to remove their personal and family photos.  Why is that?”

 

Yes, you definitely hear that one those shows! That is good advice and we completely agree with it.  We tell our sellers that they need to remove personal photos along with other personalized items like religious decor and collectibles. The reason for this is that you are trying to present this home as the buyers ‘new’ home, so your memories shouldn’t be ‘hanging’ around in the form of framed photos and gallery walls. You don’t want potential buyers to feel like they are just visiting when they attend a private viewing or an open house.  They need to see themselves living in the home and your photos all over the home can really create a mental block for buyers.

 

When it comes to family photos, don’t get us wrong – we do love a gallery wall, it is great way to display and cherish your memories -but when it comes to home staging, those are your memories and you need to pack up with you, so that the home is a blank canvas for new memories.

 

If your photos are in frames and not wall mounted but displayed on surfaces like side tables, coffee tables and bookcases – those photos are not only personalizing the space but they are also adding clutter.  It’s really important when you are staging your home for sale that the clutter is removed.

 

It can be tough for sellers to pack up those family photos but since you plan on bringing them to your next home, think of this as a pre-pack of your most precious pieces.

 

Same goes for religious art/items – you don’t know who will be buying your home so keep the look and feel neutral.

You don’t need to remove all art from your walls just the personal pieces.

Instead of displaying your photos, try these ideas instead.

If you have a gallery wall already in place and feel that removing all of the photos will make a mess of your walls.  Try replacing the photos with some temporary placeholders like neutral photos, maps, small art, letters etc…

The gallery wall is a current look and a lot of people like it.  It will take some time to remove the photos and replace them with a more neutral item but you won’t have to patch a bunch of nail holes.

 

Another alternative is over sized art

– it adds some visual interest, fills up the walls space and a splash of colour keeping the home warm and welcoming.  Over sized art also has an upscale look and feel.  Stick with landscapes and/or abstract- they are neutral options and work in every space from bedrooms to dining room and with works with every style.

 

Remember when it comes to staging your home for sale, you want to attract as many potential buyers as possible.  De-personalizing your space is one important element in the home staging process.

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we-answer-wednesday-kitchen-backsplas

“I moved into my townhouse a year ago.  I love my kitchen!  it’s white with light grey counter top and grey tile floor.  This summer I want to add a back splash but I’m not sure what to choose.  Any advice?”

A white kitchen is classic and a great choice for a smaller space.  It’s light and bright and in terms of resale, it has mass appeal. Adding a backsplash is a simple update that isn’t disruptive to your life at home. A backsplash in a kitchen is like adding jewelry to an outfit – it really pulls it all together.  This year in tile it was all about shape, the colours were all neutral but the shapes were the focus.

For a back splash, you have lots of options.

Subway tile –

this is a classic and you cannot go wrong with this option.  Seen here in a brick or staggered formation it mimics the look of brick.  A typical subway tile is 3″ x 6″ but there are variations in size.  In terms of colour – a soft grey is a good neutral option as is white but you could also go with a charcoal for a more dramatic look.  If you are thinking you might sell in about 3-5 years choose something with some longevity like a neutral tone.

Stainless Steel Tile –

this has a bit more of an industrial edge.  This material works well in a kitchen as it’s easy to clean and maintain.  You will also have a lot of shapes and sizes to choose from.  This also looks great in a kitchen that has stainless steel appliances.

Glass mosaic tile –

this option was super popular a few years ago.  This is still seen today but more tone on tone like the image here.  Various shades of grey and a mix of clear and frosted glass.  Again, a soft look with a bit of texture and shine – ideal for a smaller kitchen.

Marble tile –

Marble is so classic and elegant but we have been seeing it in more modern and contemporary spaces, too.  It is a material that requires a lot of maintenance when installed as a counter top but as a back splash not to so much.  The natural variation and veins make it visually interesting and it look amazing when paired with grey and white.

 

Hexagon tile –

a popular shape in 2015 for backsplashes and floors.  Try this in a neutral tone and it will give even the most ‘tired’ kitchen a fresh look.  The shape is interesting  but not over the top.  Hexagon tiles also look incredible in bathrooms too, in a shower as an accent or on the shower floor.

 

Herringbone formation –

still looking for something a bit different but not totally off the wall? Try a herringbone formation.  Using a subway tile, instead of staggering the tile you lay it in a ‘zig zag’ format.  Herringbone is a pattern we often see in menswear but we are seeing it in tiles.  Stick with a neutral colour palette and a grout that is a few shades lighter (or darker) than the tile so that the pattern shows.  This also looks great on a floor with a 12 x 24 tile.

Arabesque tile –

this is a shape that’s recently popular.  It adds an elegant touch to a kitchen.  Again, use a grout with some pigmentation so that the shape is evident.  It’s lovely in white and soft grey.

Kitchen back splash tiles are that final touch that really pull it all together!

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what-to-do-with-that-awkward-space

In some kitchens you will notice that there is an awkward open space between the ceiling and the top of the kitchen cabinets. Other than building in a bulkhead to meet the top of the cabinets – what can you do?

 

Depending on your style or your situation this can be usable space.  It can be used for storage or decor, ideally both.

 

If you are selling, we strongly suggest not displaying it as cluttered storage packed with various things like large Tupperware, platters and small appliances -as that sends out a message to buyers – this kitchen doesn’t have enough storage (which is a negative)!!

 

If you are selling and staging, try painting that open space.  We recommend the same tone as the cabinets (or at least something light that works with the palette or the same wall colour as you have in the kitchen already)  That will keep an open feel in the kitchen- a bright or dark paint tone will draw attention to the awkward space and give an odd striped effect

 

Ideas if you are staging:

 

This kitchen shows a lighter tone that works with the colour palette

 

This image shows a kitchen where the gap is painted in the same tone as the cabinets you can see how the awkward gap just disappears.

 

Clean and uniform storage….wicker baskets are a great way to add some natural material to your space – this looks great in a rustic or country style kitchen plus these baskets hide items that maybe are not suitable for display like cooking magazines. This would work for staging as it is clean looking and practical not cluttered and junky.

 

Decor for your everyday living there are some easy and interesting display ideas….

 

Try adding some cute and fun messages like Eat, Laugh, Family…..

 

 

Layer some decorative pieces but keep to a tight colour palette  – seen here there is a mix or shiny metallic and white – that gives a streamlined look

 

Photo from House Beautiful

 

What about wall paper? This works is you have some wall space covered in the same wall paper…

 

 

Take advantage of high ceilings by using the space to display bold pieces of art

 

 

Love that cafe look and feel? Bring it home with chalkboard paint and some fun messages, inspiring quotes, recipes and more….

 

 

Are you a collector or cookbooks? This could work for some great book storage but make sure to style the space so it doesn’t look cluttered

 

 

Get a little retro with some wire baskets that can hold practical items that will also add some pops of colour

 

 

Be unique – display a cool collection that symbolizes your passions – love to travel? Try this interesting yet simple display….

 

But no matter what you have up there be sure to dust it regularly as it can collect a lot of dust over time.

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7-easy-tips-to-make-small-rooms-feel-big

Just because the rooms in your house are small, doesn’t mean they can’t look big. You can make any space look bigger by using these simple tricks. Transform your small rooms into an inviting, seemingly spacious home. These tips are perfect for anyone looking to sell their home

1. Lighting.

It all starts with light. Lightness evokes space, while darkness constraints and hides it. So first, use all the natural light you can. Don’t block off  windows with heavy or dark curtains or furniture. Instead, frame your furniture around the windows and other appropriate lighting fixtures. A bright room always feels more airy than a dark one. Let the natural light in – open up those blinds and drapes (this is also important for photos) For your photos – have window dressing pulled back and have all the lights on!

2. Color.

With that same idea, use light colors in your home. Your walls, floors, and  ceilings are most important because they take up a lot of space. For maximum impact, your walls and ceiling should be a neutral, light shade that radiates light and your floors will be on the lighter side as well. A paint job on the  walls will make a world of difference and if the floors are a dark color this makes the room feel heavy, try using a large, light-colored area rug. You can use dark colors in your furnishings, but keep them minimal.

3. Clutter.

Get rid of it! For most people, this means packing up about half of the miscellaneous objects scattered around the house. It will probably look a little empty to you, but it will only look like more space. This is this process as a pre-pack and the bonus is you get a great head start and you won’t be lugging all sort of extra unnecessary ‘stuff’ with you to the next space.

4. Mirrors.

It’s a classic trick, but it’s still around because it works. First, make sure there is a large mirror in the bathroom, which is likely the smallest room  in the house. Another one in the bedroom, above the dresser, is preferable.  Then, in the living room or dining room, if a mirror might work  with the space, add it. You could place one over a side table or find an artistic mirror to hang near photos. Because mirrors reflect light and images,  they create the illusion of a bigger space. Mirrors are also great in an entry. But don’t put one in every room, the buyers will catch on

5. Furniture.

First, reduce the amount of furniture in rooms that look cluttered. Less furniture means more space. Then, look at your floor plan. You want open arrangements that don’t block off space. Boxy areas reduce traffic flow and  impede movement. By increasing flow, you can make your house look bigger. Don’t get stuck on how you live in the space – think mass appeal how would this lay out work for most people and in spaces like a family room and living room think about TV placement (this is a top question that buyers ask themselves – where would I put my TV?)

6. Cleanliness.

An airy, clean room will always feel bigger than dusty, stale one. So with  that in mind, do a thorough cleaning job, getting into all those overlooked  areas like corners, fans and lights, behind furniture, and the tops of shelves.  Any little carpet stains, nicks in the walls, or bits of dirt and dust will draw your eye away from the open space and into the dirty details. And open those windows and let some fresh air in, that can do wonders too

7. Books.

On bookshelves, place bigger and darker books on bottom and smaller, lighter  books on top. Its a simple trick that transfers weight to the bottom, leaving  the top more open and light. And don’t over crowd them – it looks messy and it sends the message to buyers that this home is lacking in storage.

I hope these tips help your rooms feel and look bigger,

SHOP NEUTRAL HOME DECOR…

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we-answer-wednesday-bathroom-accessories
“I’m always struggling to find accessories for my bathroom. I have no idea what a good bathroom accessory is. Any suggestions?”
 
 
Great question! Often a room that is overlooked, bathrooms should be beautiful too! Bathroom accessories are what personalize a space and are a great place to add fun colour you may not have anywhere else in your home.
 
Try adding colored or patterned towels to your space. There are so many great colours and options, you can choose anything! If you’re stuck, try choosing a colour out of your shower curtain and adding that. No shower curtain? Neutral with a pattern with add that visual interest you’re looking for. Of course, if your bathroom is
already bright and colourful.. a clean, crisp neutral with a subtle pattern will add that extra pop!
 

Small faux plants are a nice touch. There are many plants that are artificial but you can even tell! Choose a plant to place on your countertop or on another surface you have such as a shelf, toilet, edge of a bathtub. 

I love candles in a bathroom. I think it gives the space a serene feel and they smell great! Beautiful candle holders, or just candles on their own are another great layer to add to the bathroom accessory list. You can have one large or a grouping of smaller ones. Choose something you love. 

Art is a nice touch as well. Somewhere in the bathroom you will likely have a bit of wall space for a small piece or two. Add something that goes nicely with your previously selected colour palette. It doesn’t have to all be the same as what you have but something with a hint of consistency will blend beautifully into the space. 

Small trays for jewelry and personal items are a functional and pretty option to keep on the countertop. Choose something shiny!  Maybe something that matches the handles in your bathroom such as gold, chrome or brass. The continuation of similar metals makes your space look well thought out, and very harmonious.   But don’t leave too much jewelry on display or anything really expensive!

 
The key is to repeat a colour. Having 7 different colours, patterns and textures may seem like a good idea, but it will likely just have an eclectic feel. Try to use some consistency and repeat an accent colour you have already started
with. 
And for anyone looking to sell their home, don’t forget about staging your bathroom it really sets the scene for buyers.  The bathroom is a hot spot that buyers look for so show it off with simple accessories. Create that ‘dream’ bathroom for those buyers!
 
 Goodluck!

 

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