(NAPSA)—What does your home say about you? According to a recent survey, your living space’s appearance has a dramatic effect on how others view you. Asa result, tackling spring cleaning may be more important than you think. Opinion Research Corporation’s CARAVAN conducted the survey, which asked: Whatis it about the appearance of someone’s home that could change your opinion of them? Of the six choices, the highest percentage named lack of organization/clutter (69 percent) as the most determining opinionchangingfactor. But while many homeowners lament that they don’t have the time for spring cleaning or a home makeover, Marshalls’ homestyle expert Jenn DeBarge-Goonan explains that “With the right tools andattitude, anythingis possible. It’s surprising that so many homeowners don’t realize that finding solutions is easy.” Here are a few quick-fix tips for home personality disorders indicated as important by respondents of the survey: * Lack of Organization/ Clutter (69 percent): Manufacturers have come a long way in termsof great design for organizational products. Start small: Something as simple as a box for mail can make a huge difference. When browsing, be creative about how items might be used to clear up clutter. Let the fresh air in and let the cleaning begin. Unpleasant Pictures/Artwork (35 percent): Decorating Many of a home’s “personality disorders” can be fixed easily and inexpensively. becomes an extension of you for others to experience. Household items stir up memories and help rewind the movie that is your life. For warmer months, find inspiration from beach or country vacations. An Out-of-Touch Color Scheme (32 percent): Look to fashion trends for ideas. This season’s hot spring colors, prints and textures can translate into home textiles or accessories. * Outdated/Old-Fashioned Dcor (27 percent): Reflect on your space with some thoughtful consideration. Ask for criticism from friends whose style you admire; now is the perfect opportunity to show off the new you. Inadequate Lighting (26 percent): Lighting has incredible mood-altering power. The difference that tinkering with bulbs, lampshades and placement of light sources makes is between night and day—literally. Natural light in winter and spring varies a great deal, and should be taken into consideration.
