You are ready to start a business or expand your existing business by turning what you love into a profitable venture. You are also wise enough to realize that it takes more than talent to grow a successful business. Are you confused by all the options available and don’t know how to make a final decision? Take a look at the questions DSA has heard time and time again, they just might answer some of yours.
1. Why should I select a The Decorating and Staging Academy (DSA) training?
- Longest continuous running truly hands-on training in the country
- Training from respected industry gurus
- Only training not just self-certified but approved by multiple industry giants
- CHF Drapery and Design Academy, Charlotte, NC
- RESA Real Estate Staging Association
- WFCP program, division Grace McNamara INC, industry leader since 1974
- RESA-Real Estate Staging Association
- IRIS
BACK TO THE TOP
2. How much is the course and what do I receive for my tuition?
Each class is a different fee. Please refer to the class you have chosen to review the individual tuition and benefits. Travel expenses are not included for on location classes.
On site classes are built around an 8-10 hour workday. Standard DSA inclusions are as follows:
- Transportation to and from client's home
- Comprehensive manuals and workbooks
- Lunch and snacks during day
- Hands on training in real homes for on-location classes
- Access to Special Forms developed by DSA
- Courtesy Audit-repeat your class at no charge to reinforce your learning
- Special website pricing and packages
- One on one coaching with your trainer for first 30 days
- Membership in O.D.D.A.A, our alumni site, at no charge for first year.
- Pre-written Press Release to announce your business
- Listing of your graduate status in our amazing monthly magazine, The DECOpolitan
- One year’s Membership to RESA (Staging class only)
BACK TO THE TOP
3. What is the difference between the Hands-on and Learn at Home Classes?
Hands On: On location classes include a combination of classroom and hands on in real homes perfecting your skills. DSA believes hands on will provide you with the most confidence and creative options, but understand that life doesn’t always allow this.
Learn at Home: The exact course information taught in the hands on classes accompanied by instructor led webinars delivered in both real time or on demand. Complete with assignments and tests to receive certification specific to your training
BACK TO THE TOP
4. Do I have to have previous decorating experience?
No Experience Necessary, just a love for the decorating process.
BACK TO THE TOP
5. Do I need a business background?
No, you do not need a business background. DSA will guide you in the necessary steps in implementing a new business:
- Licensing
- Insurance
- Setting up an office
- Finding a business name
- Establishing pricing
- Developing a marketing strategy and more
BACK TO THE TOP
6. Is this a franchise or does it charge ongoing fees?
Once you have paid for your initial training there are no other fees required of you. You are an independent entrepreneur and the decisions you make to grow your business will be made entirely by you. You may decide to join suggested industry associations but membership is not necessary unless you see the merit of joining.
BACK TO THE TOP
7. What if I already have an established decorating or staging business?
If you have already taken the leap into the world of business, then this workshop will simply complement the business you already have. DSA Training will help you to treat your business like a business and not a hobby.
BACK TO THE TOP
8. Will I learn how to start a business and market it successfully?
DSA spends a significant portion of the training concentrating on marketing, advertising, and self promotion, including support when you return home.
BACK TO THE TOP
9. How much money can I make?
How much you make really depends on your work ethic and your ability to sell your services. It takes more than talent to grow a business and DSA does all it can to help make you profitable. ODD also teaches alternative ways to make money in conjunction with your talent by adding new revenue streams to your business.
BACK TO THE TOP
10. With today’s tough economy, can you really make money with decorating and/or staging?
The Decorating and Staging Academy, interior redesign, color consultations are all cost effective ways of transforming a space. Staging makes sense in today’s difficult buyers market, selling is much more competitive and today’s buyer is more demanding. So use your skills and talent to make money.
BACK TO THE TOP
11. Can I do this alone?
Most alumni work alone however; if help is needed DSA will coach you how to work around the more difficult jobs and how to connect with your peers for a joint approach to getting the job done, without making the financial and emotional commitment to a partner.
BACK TO THE TOP
12. Do I need to work full time?
Remember you own this business so you can establish your own schedule. In fact, the most successful DSA alumni are those who pre-determine how many hours they will dedicate to their business.
BACK TO THE TOP
13. What happens when class ends?
DSA and your trainer are still there for you! You are an automatic member of our alumni site, O.D.D.A.A. It was created to provide support and motivation to ODD alumni while providing an opportunity to network with fellow entrepreneurs. Ongoing coaching and mentoring is also available in a variety of formats.
BACK TO THE TOP
14. I have questions not yet answered, what can I do?
Pick up the phone and call JoAnne at 866-796-6597 or 814-440-3044 (cell) or call Carol 888-800-7507 at or email at joanne@onedaydecorating.com or carol@onedaydecorating.com
BACK TO THE TOP
15. Can I take the DSA training in a distance learning format?
Yes, DSA along with our sister site, The Decorating Academy, (http://www.thedecoratingacademy.com) have introduced a variety of ways to gain education and credibility.
BACK TO THE TOP
16. How many students are in a class?
Each class is limited to 6 students expect for color class which will allow 10. These numbers allow The Decorating and Staging Academy to maximize your learning experience.
BACK TO THE TOP
17. Will I receive any certifications from attending a The Decorating and Staging Academy Class?
Absolutely, yes. Each class has been certified and endorsed by a variety of industry associations. These association include but are not limited to, CHF Academy, RESA, WfCP and others. Your certifications may vary depending on your instructor. |
