Home Sellers: Five Tips to Make Your Bathroom Stand Out
Every homebuyer has a vision of their perfect house and the rooms that are most important to them. Because of their relatively small size in comparison to the rest of a home, bathrooms are often overlooked in the staging process, but for many, it could be the most important room in a buying decision.
A bathroom is more than just a place for grooming; it’s a sanctuary. It’s a place one can relax in a hot bath and escape the stresses of daily life for a few moments at a time.
Updating a tired-looking bathroom is one of the best things you can do to increase a home’s resale value and the fixes are not too costly or labor intensive.
Easy fixes include adding new, luxurious-looking towels, replacing the shower curtain and adding candles around a bathtub. However, with a little more money and effort, your bathroom can become a talking point of the house.
Here is a look at five great ways to upgrade a bathroom.
1. Beautify: By adding decorative glass, stone tile or accents to the bathroom, it will stand out among the other houses in the neighborhood that are for sale. Extra-wide wall tiles are popular these days and wood cabinets can be beautifully embellished with intricately carved wooden inlays.
2. Lighting: Add more lighting options around the room, especially around the vanity to reduce shadows and glaring. This is something that isn’t too expensive and can really highlight the positive features of a bathroom. Mood lighting around the tub area is also increasing in popularity.
3. Bath/Shower: It’s not too often you hear someone complaining about a bathtub being too large, and that’s because there’s nothing better than coming home from a hard day’s work and relaxing in a big soothing tub. By putting in a new tub and creating more of a spa-like atmosphere, you will have buyers imagining themselves washing their cares away. Adding a massage element to the showerhead or one that replicates rain showers is also something that will appeal to buyers.
4. Update Fixtures: Not as costly as some of the other tips, changing out the fixtures in a bathroom can add a great deal. From cabinet handles to faucets, the addition of brushed nickel or other metals that are polished and elegant are always a huge hit. And if space permits, add a second sink.
5. Think Green: The bathroom is a prime place to start putting those environmentally friendly devices to work. Installing fixtures that save water, such as a low-flow showerhead, a low-flow faucet aerator, and a dual-flush toilet, can save thousands of gallons of water each year. Adding energy-efficient windows is another easy option, since the size of bathroom windows are relatively small. Another fix that is both decorative and energy efficient is the addition of natural stone flooring, which helps the bathroom stay cool during the summer, and warmer during the winter.
When buyers walk into a renovated bathroom that exudes quality and offers an intimate, contemporary feel, it’s one of the top things that people will remember about a home.
Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated member of The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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Showing posts with label Remodeling your home. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Remodeling your home. Show all posts
Monday, October 24, 2011
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
The 203K Mortgage
The 203k Mortgage
Real estate consumers today can find ample value in distressed homes – properties that are under a foreclosure order or up for short sale. In many cases, however, “distressed” speaks more for the condition of the homes than their recent financial histories, as they’ve sat empty for extended periods and have been subject to vandalism and theft.
Those considering homes in need of repair and renovation should consider a 203k mortgage, which enables homebuyers to finance both the acquisition and rehabilitation of the property with just one loan.
“FHA 203k purchase loans are the perfect financing vehicle for homeowners seeking the value proposition offered by REO homes,” said David Wind, president and board chairman of White Plains, N.Y.-based Guaranteed Home Mortgage Company, in a company statement this June. “Home buyers’ ‘perfect’ home can be purchased in less than perfect condition with a single-close loan product that allows repairs and remodeling.”
There are two types of 203k loans: the 203k streamline and the full 203k. The 203k streamline is the most popular among homebuyers and lenders.
“The maximum allowable in repairs is $35,000 under the 203k streamline and it does not allow any structural repairs to be done to the home, unless [the repairs are] a result of an unforeseen circumstance,” explained David Krushinsky, a certified mortgage planning specialist for Mesa, Ariz.-based AmeriFirst Financial Inc. “The full 203k allows structural repairs and will allow the buyer to exceed the $35,000 in home repairs. Both loans allow up to $1,500 in swimming pool repairs.”
Contractors chosen to perform repairs must be licensed, bonded and insured, and they usually must provide the lender with a resume and two client-reference letters.
“After the close of escrow is when all the rehabilitation work begins,” said Krushinsky. “Funds usually aren’t released immediately so it’s important for your contractor to start work in a timely manner. Typically, if they’ve been in business, they have existing relationships with vendors so they can order materials and begin work. If not, the project may take longer than anticipated.”
Since the 203k mortgage is based on the home’s potential value after repairs -- not its existing value -- you can be approved for a higher loan amount. The mortgages also carry long-term-fixed rates, are insured as soon as they fund, and include escrow accounts for the scheduled repairs.
Loan amounts are capped according to local FHA limits. Only owner-occupied properties of one to four units qualify for 203k mortage financing; homes also must be at least one year old.
Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Real estate consumers today can find ample value in distressed homes – properties that are under a foreclosure order or up for short sale. In many cases, however, “distressed” speaks more for the condition of the homes than their recent financial histories, as they’ve sat empty for extended periods and have been subject to vandalism and theft.
Those considering homes in need of repair and renovation should consider a 203k mortgage, which enables homebuyers to finance both the acquisition and rehabilitation of the property with just one loan.
“FHA 203k purchase loans are the perfect financing vehicle for homeowners seeking the value proposition offered by REO homes,” said David Wind, president and board chairman of White Plains, N.Y.-based Guaranteed Home Mortgage Company, in a company statement this June. “Home buyers’ ‘perfect’ home can be purchased in less than perfect condition with a single-close loan product that allows repairs and remodeling.”
There are two types of 203k loans: the 203k streamline and the full 203k. The 203k streamline is the most popular among homebuyers and lenders.
“The maximum allowable in repairs is $35,000 under the 203k streamline and it does not allow any structural repairs to be done to the home, unless [the repairs are] a result of an unforeseen circumstance,” explained David Krushinsky, a certified mortgage planning specialist for Mesa, Ariz.-based AmeriFirst Financial Inc. “The full 203k allows structural repairs and will allow the buyer to exceed the $35,000 in home repairs. Both loans allow up to $1,500 in swimming pool repairs.”
Contractors chosen to perform repairs must be licensed, bonded and insured, and they usually must provide the lender with a resume and two client-reference letters.
“After the close of escrow is when all the rehabilitation work begins,” said Krushinsky. “Funds usually aren’t released immediately so it’s important for your contractor to start work in a timely manner. Typically, if they’ve been in business, they have existing relationships with vendors so they can order materials and begin work. If not, the project may take longer than anticipated.”
Since the 203k mortgage is based on the home’s potential value after repairs -- not its existing value -- you can be approved for a higher loan amount. The mortgages also carry long-term-fixed rates, are insured as soon as they fund, and include escrow accounts for the scheduled repairs.
Loan amounts are capped according to local FHA limits. Only owner-occupied properties of one to four units qualify for 203k mortage financing; homes also must be at least one year old.
Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Lawn Care
Great article on Lawn Care.....
Spring is in the air and that means that homebuyers are going to be paying just as much attention to the exterior of a home than the interior. Those shopping for a home want to envision their kids playing in the yard, their friends coming over for barbeques and the lazy Sunday afternoon laying on the lawn.
While people are inclined to bring in flowers, paint the deck and work on the curb appeal, often the lawn itself is neglected. The positives of a well-maintained grass yard are many and it’s important to get your grass in tip-top shape before showing your home.
When it comes to growing grass, consistent care is key and failure to invest in long-term turf care can open the window to any number of problems in your lawn.
It’s also important to give your grass the fertilizing lawn care and control treatments it needs based on the season. Lawn care for growing grass as we enter May has different needs than what is expected in late summer and fall.
The way you mow your lawn can either make growing grass easier or harder. In the spring, you need to keep the grass high. You never want to remove more than one third of the total blade height when mowing, or you could chop off the food-producing parts of the grass blade and end up with a brown lawn instead of a green one.
You should also leave grass clippings on the lawn to help recycle important lawn fertilizing nutrients.
Lawn care experts share that growing green plants is the best thing you can do to clean the air and grass is considered to be better than most other plants or trees at removing carbon and other impurities from the atmosphere. Through the process of photosynthesis, grass takes carbon from the air and stores it in the ground.
“A grass lawn enriches the soil by providing a home for beneficial micro-organisms and insects that eat nature’s leftovers—decomposing grass clippings, plant leaves and other vegetation—and recycle nutrients back into the soil,” said Michael McDermott, a lawn care expert in Larchmont, N.Y. “It also pollinates plants and serves as food for other animals, making grass an important part of nature’s cycle.”
An important component of growing grass is to properly water it, and it is better to water deeply (down to a depth of 6 inches) and less frequently, than lightly and more often. If your lawn dulls in color or begins to wilt, then your lawn needs water. Make sure to sweep any fertilizer that lands on driveways and sidewalks back on to the lawn.
Grass also acts like a natural air conditioner that cools the air as it releases water vapor through its blades. The water evaporates and draws heat, cooling the air in the process. As a result, lawns are a safer surface for children to play on and provide the cool comfort we desire on hot days. Those are selling points that can help any home sale.
Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Spring is in the air and that means that homebuyers are going to be paying just as much attention to the exterior of a home than the interior. Those shopping for a home want to envision their kids playing in the yard, their friends coming over for barbeques and the lazy Sunday afternoon laying on the lawn.
While people are inclined to bring in flowers, paint the deck and work on the curb appeal, often the lawn itself is neglected. The positives of a well-maintained grass yard are many and it’s important to get your grass in tip-top shape before showing your home.
When it comes to growing grass, consistent care is key and failure to invest in long-term turf care can open the window to any number of problems in your lawn.
It’s also important to give your grass the fertilizing lawn care and control treatments it needs based on the season. Lawn care for growing grass as we enter May has different needs than what is expected in late summer and fall.
The way you mow your lawn can either make growing grass easier or harder. In the spring, you need to keep the grass high. You never want to remove more than one third of the total blade height when mowing, or you could chop off the food-producing parts of the grass blade and end up with a brown lawn instead of a green one.
You should also leave grass clippings on the lawn to help recycle important lawn fertilizing nutrients.
Lawn care experts share that growing green plants is the best thing you can do to clean the air and grass is considered to be better than most other plants or trees at removing carbon and other impurities from the atmosphere. Through the process of photosynthesis, grass takes carbon from the air and stores it in the ground.
“A grass lawn enriches the soil by providing a home for beneficial micro-organisms and insects that eat nature’s leftovers—decomposing grass clippings, plant leaves and other vegetation—and recycle nutrients back into the soil,” said Michael McDermott, a lawn care expert in Larchmont, N.Y. “It also pollinates plants and serves as food for other animals, making grass an important part of nature’s cycle.”
An important component of growing grass is to properly water it, and it is better to water deeply (down to a depth of 6 inches) and less frequently, than lightly and more often. If your lawn dulls in color or begins to wilt, then your lawn needs water. Make sure to sweep any fertilizer that lands on driveways and sidewalks back on to the lawn.
Grass also acts like a natural air conditioner that cools the air as it releases water vapor through its blades. The water evaporates and draws heat, cooling the air in the process. As a result, lawns are a safer surface for children to play on and provide the cool comfort we desire on hot days. Those are selling points that can help any home sale.
Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Home Sellers: Five Tips to Make Your Bathroom Stand Out
Home Sellers: Five Tips to Make Your Bathroom Stand Out
Every homebuyer has a vision of their perfect house and the rooms that are most important to them. Because of their relatively small size in comparison to the rest of a home, bathrooms are often overlooked in the staging process, but for many, it could be the most important room in a buying decision. A bathroom is more than just a place for grooming; it’s a sanctuary. It’s a place one can relax in a hot bath and escape the stresses of daily life for a few moments at a time. Updating a tired-looking bathroom is one of the best things you can do to increase a home’s resale value and the fixes are not too costly or labor intensive. Easy fixes include adding new, luxurious-looking towels, replacing the shower curtain and adding candles around a bathtub. However, with a little more money and effort, your bathroom can become a talking point of the house. Here is a look at five great ways to upgrade a bathroom.
Every homebuyer has a vision of their perfect house and the rooms that are most important to them. Because of their relatively small size in comparison to the rest of a home, bathrooms are often overlooked in the staging process, but for many, it could be the most important room in a buying decision. A bathroom is more than just a place for grooming; it’s a sanctuary. It’s a place one can relax in a hot bath and escape the stresses of daily life for a few moments at a time. Updating a tired-looking bathroom is one of the best things you can do to increase a home’s resale value and the fixes are not too costly or labor intensive. Easy fixes include adding new, luxurious-looking towels, replacing the shower curtain and adding candles around a bathtub. However, with a little more money and effort, your bathroom can become a talking point of the house. Here is a look at five great ways to upgrade a bathroom.
1. Beautify:
By adding decorative glass, stone tile or accents to the bathroom, it will stand out among the other houses in the neighborhood that are for sale. Extra-wide wall tiles are popular these days and wood cabinets can be beautifully embellished with intricately carved wooden inlays.
2. Lighting:
Add more lighting options around the room, especially around the vanity to reduce shadows and glaring. This is something that isn’t too expensive and can really highlight the positive features of a bathroom. Mood lighting around the tub area is also increasing in popularity.
3. Bath/Shower:
It’s not too often you hear someone complaining about a bathtub being too large, and that’s because there’s nothing better than coming home from a hard day’s work and relaxing in a big soothing tub. By putting in a new tub and creating more of a spa-like atmosphere, you will have buyers imagining themselves washing their cares away. Adding a massage element to the showerhead or one that replicates rain showers is also something that will appeal to buyers.
4. Update Fixtures:
Not as costly as some of the other tips, changing out the fixtures in a bathroom can add a great deal. From cabinet handles to faucets, the addition of brushed nickel or other metals that are polished and elegant are always a huge hit. And if space permits, add a second sink.
5. Think Green:
The bathroom is a prime place to start putting those environmentally friendly devices to work. Installing fixtures that save water, such as a low-flow showerhead, a low-flow faucet aerator, and a dual-flush toilet, can save thousands of gallons of water each year. Adding energy-efficient windows is another easy option, since the size of bathroom windows are relatively small. Another fix that is both decorative and energy efficient is the addition of natural stone flooring, which helps keep cool in during the summer, and heats the bathroom longer during the winter. When buyers walk into a renovated bathroom that exudes quality and offers an intimate, contemporary feel, it’s one of the top things that people will remember about a home.
Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Friday, September 3, 2010
Tips for Hiring a Home Remodeling Contractor
10 Tips for Hiring a Home Remodeling Contractor
With the U.S. economy facing the lowest home sale statistics in fifteen years and home values continuing to slide in many regions, it's not surprising to hear that housing trends point towards a large percentage of American homeowners looking to improve and maximize their existing property investment versus buying a new home. When deciding to undertake a remodeling project however, there are several invaluable tips to keep in mind as you discuss your home make-over with potential contractors.Through advice and stories shared by both contractors and consumers, StageofLife.com, a blogging resource for homeowners, discovered 10 important tips on how to find a trustworthy home remodeling contractor to help ensure the right person or company is hired for your next home improvement project.
Tip #1: Does Your Contractor Have Proof of Insurance?Ask the contractor to have his insurance company mail or fax a copy of his current contractor insurance card to you. If the contractor can't do this - stay away. Why? If there is an accident at your home, you are then liable. This also applies to any sub-contractor or employee that the contractor may use - those individuals should have active insurance cards faxed or mailed to you as well.
Tip #2: Did You Check References and See Photos?Ask for at least three references - with two of them being for the same type of project you are planning - and then call the references. Additionally, ask the contractor to provide photos of previous work, especially for the same type of project. If he produces lawn and garden photos and you're planning a bathroom remodel, you may want to check out another contractor.
Tip #3: Does Your Contractor Take Debit or Credit Cards?Besides your ability to earn a few points, bonus miles, or cash back on your project, a good sign that a contractor is financially savvy and has a bank behind his business is his ability to take debit and credit cards. This doesn't just apply to big contracting companies. Many small, one-man shops will take cards if they have a good relationship with their business bank or credit union.
Tip #4: Manners and Appearance?If the contractor drove his vehicle to your home to give you an estimate, take a look at the way he keeps the equipment and vehicle. Are things clean? Neatly arranged? If not - that's a big warning. The way a contractor treats his tools is a direct connection to how he'll treat your home. During the initial meeting, does the contractor present himself in a professional way? Do you feel comfortable around him or his employees? They will be working in your home after all.
Tip #5: Clean Up Policy?Ask about the clean-up policy. For example, if your home improvement is a multi-day project, will the contractor be cleaning up at the end of every day or will he leave the dust, wood chips, and other mess laying there for day #2? The more mess in your home - the more it gets tracked around. Many homeowners find themselves with mouths gaping wide after the contractor has left for the day and their floors and home are dirty and messy around the project area.
Tip #6: Will the Contractor Put It In Writing?Is your contractor willing to put both his bid and the scope of work in writing? If not - walk away immediately. You'll be surprised how many homeowners have been duped by contractors who verbally tell you what's included in their scope of work, but will then, in the middle of everything, require extra money to finish the remodel, thus holding you hostage with an uncompleted home project.
Tip #7: Availability?Can the contractor get the job done in your timeline rather than his timeline? There's nothing more frustrating than if a contractor tells you that a job will be done by a certain date and then it isn't . On the flip side, if you can't find a good contractor that's willing to commit to your timeline, your expectations may be too high and you may need to adjust your timeline.
Tip #8: Does Your Contractor Use "Subs?"Does your contractor plan on doing everything himself? Or will he "sub out" work to the "trades?" For example, if you are remodeling a bathroom, you may need a plumber, electrician, and carpenter. It's okay if the contractor subs work out to these specific trades - it shows he wants the work done right.Also, it's fair to say that you can expect your contractor to make money off the trades, or other sub-contractors, by marking up those quotes for the project. That is a standard practice to help the general contractor recover costs in the time it takes to manage the schedule. If you don't want to spend the extra money on your contractor marking up the trade quotes, then you should prepare to project manage the remodel yourself, but know this may limit your options on contractors willing to work with you.
Tip #9: Quoting & Billing Procedure?Ask the contractor about his quoting procedure. Will it contain general information, or will it be specific? For example - most contractors will charge you for a fuel surcharge, material up-charges, waste removal, labor, etc. Some will show you these exact costs in a line item invoice, but others roll it up into one big bill. How much detail do you want? You should clarify that with your contractor upfront.Also - what is the payment or billing policy? Is money required upfront? If so, go back to #1 and #2 above to make sure you have the contractor's references checked and have a copy of his contractor's insurance.
Tip #10: Did Your Contractor Get the Permits?Ask your contractor to take care of the permits. Although permits cost you money, the inspection process is meant to protect you from poor workmanship and to make sure that everything is being built to code.By following these 10 tips for hiring a home contractor, you'll feel more confident.
RIS Media
With the U.S. economy facing the lowest home sale statistics in fifteen years and home values continuing to slide in many regions, it's not surprising to hear that housing trends point towards a large percentage of American homeowners looking to improve and maximize their existing property investment versus buying a new home. When deciding to undertake a remodeling project however, there are several invaluable tips to keep in mind as you discuss your home make-over with potential contractors.Through advice and stories shared by both contractors and consumers, StageofLife.com, a blogging resource for homeowners, discovered 10 important tips on how to find a trustworthy home remodeling contractor to help ensure the right person or company is hired for your next home improvement project.
Tip #1: Does Your Contractor Have Proof of Insurance?Ask the contractor to have his insurance company mail or fax a copy of his current contractor insurance card to you. If the contractor can't do this - stay away. Why? If there is an accident at your home, you are then liable. This also applies to any sub-contractor or employee that the contractor may use - those individuals should have active insurance cards faxed or mailed to you as well.
Tip #2: Did You Check References and See Photos?Ask for at least three references - with two of them being for the same type of project you are planning - and then call the references. Additionally, ask the contractor to provide photos of previous work, especially for the same type of project. If he produces lawn and garden photos and you're planning a bathroom remodel, you may want to check out another contractor.
Tip #3: Does Your Contractor Take Debit or Credit Cards?Besides your ability to earn a few points, bonus miles, or cash back on your project, a good sign that a contractor is financially savvy and has a bank behind his business is his ability to take debit and credit cards. This doesn't just apply to big contracting companies. Many small, one-man shops will take cards if they have a good relationship with their business bank or credit union.
Tip #4: Manners and Appearance?If the contractor drove his vehicle to your home to give you an estimate, take a look at the way he keeps the equipment and vehicle. Are things clean? Neatly arranged? If not - that's a big warning. The way a contractor treats his tools is a direct connection to how he'll treat your home. During the initial meeting, does the contractor present himself in a professional way? Do you feel comfortable around him or his employees? They will be working in your home after all.
Tip #5: Clean Up Policy?Ask about the clean-up policy. For example, if your home improvement is a multi-day project, will the contractor be cleaning up at the end of every day or will he leave the dust, wood chips, and other mess laying there for day #2? The more mess in your home - the more it gets tracked around. Many homeowners find themselves with mouths gaping wide after the contractor has left for the day and their floors and home are dirty and messy around the project area.
Tip #6: Will the Contractor Put It In Writing?Is your contractor willing to put both his bid and the scope of work in writing? If not - walk away immediately. You'll be surprised how many homeowners have been duped by contractors who verbally tell you what's included in their scope of work, but will then, in the middle of everything, require extra money to finish the remodel, thus holding you hostage with an uncompleted home project.
Tip #7: Availability?Can the contractor get the job done in your timeline rather than his timeline? There's nothing more frustrating than if a contractor tells you that a job will be done by a certain date and then it isn't . On the flip side, if you can't find a good contractor that's willing to commit to your timeline, your expectations may be too high and you may need to adjust your timeline.
Tip #8: Does Your Contractor Use "Subs?"Does your contractor plan on doing everything himself? Or will he "sub out" work to the "trades?" For example, if you are remodeling a bathroom, you may need a plumber, electrician, and carpenter. It's okay if the contractor subs work out to these specific trades - it shows he wants the work done right.Also, it's fair to say that you can expect your contractor to make money off the trades, or other sub-contractors, by marking up those quotes for the project. That is a standard practice to help the general contractor recover costs in the time it takes to manage the schedule. If you don't want to spend the extra money on your contractor marking up the trade quotes, then you should prepare to project manage the remodel yourself, but know this may limit your options on contractors willing to work with you.
Tip #9: Quoting & Billing Procedure?Ask the contractor about his quoting procedure. Will it contain general information, or will it be specific? For example - most contractors will charge you for a fuel surcharge, material up-charges, waste removal, labor, etc. Some will show you these exact costs in a line item invoice, but others roll it up into one big bill. How much detail do you want? You should clarify that with your contractor upfront.Also - what is the payment or billing policy? Is money required upfront? If so, go back to #1 and #2 above to make sure you have the contractor's references checked and have a copy of his contractor's insurance.
Tip #10: Did Your Contractor Get the Permits?Ask your contractor to take care of the permits. Although permits cost you money, the inspection process is meant to protect you from poor workmanship and to make sure that everything is being built to code.By following these 10 tips for hiring a home contractor, you'll feel more confident.
RIS Media
Friday, April 16, 2010
TOP TEN TIPS FOR STAGING A HOME
Top 10 Tips for Staging a Home
April 15, 2010 -- Realty Times Feature Article by Broderick Perkins
Provided your home-for-sale has the curb appeal to get potential buyers inside, keeping them inside for a further look requires a staging strategy that sticks the deal.
HGTV's FrontDoor.com offers what it considers the Top 10 tips that can turn a languishing listing to a multiple offer attraction.
• Reclaim the yard. First impressions rule. Spruce up curb appeal by maintaining a clean yard, adding plants for a splash of color and applying a fresh coat of paint to the front door.
• Let the foyer flourish. The home portal sets the tone for the entire home. Make the space up-to-date, well-maintained and eye catching -- top to bottom.
• Back off beige. Don't let neutral colored walls dominate a room. Splashes of color liven up boring spaces. Throw pillows, artwork and fresh flowers add pops of color and personality.
• Cure kitchen craziness. Consistency pleases. All countertops and cabinets should match. New hardware, a new backsplash and a thorough cleaning can transform a bleak kitchen into one with smiles.
• Denude the dining room. De-cluttering and depersonalizing is the first rule of home staging. Homebuyers can have trouble envisioning themselves living in a home that's full of the seller's personal items.
• Avoid focal point faux-pas. Highlight the great features in a home by positioning furniture to highlight them. Windows, fireplaces and other architectural details will be noticed by a buyer if they are emphasized in the home correctly.
• Perk up the patio. The outdoor space is an extension of the home. Capture a higher selling price by cleaning and adding style to any outdoor space with furniture, lighting and accessories.
• Master the master suite. The best approach to staging is often working with existing accessories. Using what is already in the room and repositioning the furniture will highlight the room's best features.
• Cure bathroom blues. Older vanities and dreadful wallpaper will make any bathroom feel outdated. Apply a fresh coat of neutral-hued paint and new hardware to modernize and brighten.
• Repurpose extra rooms. The value of a space decreases when homebuyers see a room without direction (think part office, part playroom, part home gym). Though almost every homeowner is guilty of having a "junk room," take sure to stage each room with a clear purpose before putting the home on the market.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
April 15, 2010 -- Realty Times Feature Article by Broderick Perkins
Provided your home-for-sale has the curb appeal to get potential buyers inside, keeping them inside for a further look requires a staging strategy that sticks the deal.
HGTV's FrontDoor.com offers what it considers the Top 10 tips that can turn a languishing listing to a multiple offer attraction.
• Reclaim the yard. First impressions rule. Spruce up curb appeal by maintaining a clean yard, adding plants for a splash of color and applying a fresh coat of paint to the front door.
• Let the foyer flourish. The home portal sets the tone for the entire home. Make the space up-to-date, well-maintained and eye catching -- top to bottom.
• Back off beige. Don't let neutral colored walls dominate a room. Splashes of color liven up boring spaces. Throw pillows, artwork and fresh flowers add pops of color and personality.
• Cure kitchen craziness. Consistency pleases. All countertops and cabinets should match. New hardware, a new backsplash and a thorough cleaning can transform a bleak kitchen into one with smiles.
• Denude the dining room. De-cluttering and depersonalizing is the first rule of home staging. Homebuyers can have trouble envisioning themselves living in a home that's full of the seller's personal items.
• Avoid focal point faux-pas. Highlight the great features in a home by positioning furniture to highlight them. Windows, fireplaces and other architectural details will be noticed by a buyer if they are emphasized in the home correctly.
• Perk up the patio. The outdoor space is an extension of the home. Capture a higher selling price by cleaning and adding style to any outdoor space with furniture, lighting and accessories.
• Master the master suite. The best approach to staging is often working with existing accessories. Using what is already in the room and repositioning the furniture will highlight the room's best features.
• Cure bathroom blues. Older vanities and dreadful wallpaper will make any bathroom feel outdated. Apply a fresh coat of neutral-hued paint and new hardware to modernize and brighten.
• Repurpose extra rooms. The value of a space decreases when homebuyers see a room without direction (think part office, part playroom, part home gym). Though almost every homeowner is guilty of having a "junk room," take sure to stage each room with a clear purpose before putting the home on the market.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Musts for a Bathroom Renovation to go Easily and Smoothly
A bathroom renovation is not really something to be undertaken lightly. You cannot simply decide one day to start tearing out the toilet, sink and bathtub and start knocking down the walls. A must for any bathroom renovation to go smoothly is to plan things out carefully. If you do, you are more likely to be successful in getting your bathroom to come out exactly the way you want it to, or perhaps even better than you expected.
Another must before any bathroom renovation is to decide how long you are planning to remain in the house. If you are planning to move out in the short term, you may not be in the home long enough to recover all of the money you will invest in the renovation. The less time you are planning to stay in the home, the less money that should go into your renovation.
You must make a list of all the things you will want in your renovated bathroom. Really think about how you want your bathroom to look and where you want things to go, and then you are going to have to decide whether your budget will allow for everything that is on your list. This means that it is a must to set a budget for your bathroom renovation, and it must be reasonable. If you build a palace fit for a king, you will never recover your investment, and you may end up having to ask too much for your home.
If it is going to be a space that will be used by the whole family, then you are going to have to take their thoughts and ideas into consideration. You cannot renovate a room according to your likes and tastes without taking everyone else in the family into account. You might have very particular tastes and ideas which will not please the rest of the family. It is a must for you to sit down with your whole family and discuss the idea of renovating the bathroom.
It would be a good idea for you and your family to visit places where there are bathroom displays to see if there is something that the whole family can agree upon. You will not all agree on the same things, but there can be a general agreement, which is how family decisions should be made anyway. If there is general agreement, then everyone will be able to enjoy the renovated bathroom instead of trying to avoid it at all costs.
You have to stay focused and always keep in mind what you can actually afford, which will not include everything you want. There are so many things that you can put into a bathroom that it can really drive up the cost and your budget if you are not careful. In addition, if you hire someone to do the work, delays will definitely put your over budget because it will take longer to do the renovation. This is why it is a must to have a clear idea of what the renovation objective is and how to go about it. You will end up with a renovated bathroom that you can are really going to take care of and enjoy.
article alley
Another must before any bathroom renovation is to decide how long you are planning to remain in the house. If you are planning to move out in the short term, you may not be in the home long enough to recover all of the money you will invest in the renovation. The less time you are planning to stay in the home, the less money that should go into your renovation.
You must make a list of all the things you will want in your renovated bathroom. Really think about how you want your bathroom to look and where you want things to go, and then you are going to have to decide whether your budget will allow for everything that is on your list. This means that it is a must to set a budget for your bathroom renovation, and it must be reasonable. If you build a palace fit for a king, you will never recover your investment, and you may end up having to ask too much for your home.
If it is going to be a space that will be used by the whole family, then you are going to have to take their thoughts and ideas into consideration. You cannot renovate a room according to your likes and tastes without taking everyone else in the family into account. You might have very particular tastes and ideas which will not please the rest of the family. It is a must for you to sit down with your whole family and discuss the idea of renovating the bathroom.
It would be a good idea for you and your family to visit places where there are bathroom displays to see if there is something that the whole family can agree upon. You will not all agree on the same things, but there can be a general agreement, which is how family decisions should be made anyway. If there is general agreement, then everyone will be able to enjoy the renovated bathroom instead of trying to avoid it at all costs.
You have to stay focused and always keep in mind what you can actually afford, which will not include everything you want. There are so many things that you can put into a bathroom that it can really drive up the cost and your budget if you are not careful. In addition, if you hire someone to do the work, delays will definitely put your over budget because it will take longer to do the renovation. This is why it is a must to have a clear idea of what the renovation objective is and how to go about it. You will end up with a renovated bathroom that you can are really going to take care of and enjoy.
article alley
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Remodel Your Kitchen and Bath without Breaking the Bank
It’s not surprising that two of the most popular rooms for home makeovers are the kitchen and bathroom. When potential homebuyers are searching for homes, they generally are more attracted to homes with updated kitchens and baths. These same rooms rank high in return on remodeling investment at resale, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost-vs-Value 2008-09 Study.
However, both can be pricey ventures. According to the same study, the national average for minor kitchen remodel was $21,246. A sample remodel at this cost includes replacing cabinet fronts, flooring, laminate countertops and oven and cooktop; installing mid-priced sink and faucet, adding wall cover and repainting trim.
The national average for a mid-range bathroom remodel was $15,899, which included replacing fixtures, installing a porcelain-on-steel tub, new shower and ceramic tile flooring.
If you’re like many consumers today, you are more budget conscious and may not be able to afford thousands of dollars on a remodeling project. Here are some alternatives that will give your kitchen and bathroom a fresh, modern look without breaking your piggy bank.
Kitchen Cabinets—Give your cabinets a fresh look by either refinishing or refacing the fronts at a more economical cost than buying new ones. You can even take the center face out and install a glass front.
Hardware—Replacing your cabinet knobs and drawer pulls, can give your kitchen an entirely new look.
Paint—A fresh coat of paint is always a sure bet. And it is one of the least expensive ways to give a room a makeover. To further transform the room, choose more modern hues, such as a warm yellow or deep red.
Countertops—The price of natural quartz or stone countertops can quickly eat away your kitchen remodeling budget. Less expensive, yet still attractive alternatives are solid surface materials such as Silestone® or granite and ceramic tiles. An even more affordable choice is laminate, which is easy to install yourself and comes in a variety of colors and styles.
Faucets and Sinks—Add a fresh new look by replacing your sink and faucet with a high-arched spout in an updated finish, such as brushed nickel, brushed chrome or stainless steel.
Backsplash—Another option to modernize your kitchen’s look is adding a backsplash. But rather than having ceramic tiles, consider creating a mosaic with ceramic or glass or install a faux backsplash panel.
Window treatments—Switch out older valances with options that let the natural light in.
Lighting—By adding under cabinet lights or even track lighting, you can create a dramatic look to your kitchen.
Bathroom Paint—As with the kitchen, a new coat of paint is a low-cost way to renew a room’s look. Choose a warm color to give the room an intimate feel.
Showerheads—Change out old showerheads with a new rain showerhead.
Shower Doors – If you still use shower curtains for your bathtub, you can update the look by installing glass doors. Frameless doors are preferable. However, if the walls aren’t flush to the tub area, framed doors will still give you the modernized look you’re seeking.
Hardware—Just as with the kitchen, replacing the knobs and handles can give your vanity a fresh new appearance.
Lighting and Mirrors—In addition to the vanity, the lighting and mirrors above that area can combine to make the perfect focal piece for your bathroom. If changing the vanity is not in your budget, consider swapping out your unframed glass for a more decorative mirror and add a new lighting fixture.
You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to add pizzazz to your kitchen or bath. Just changing one or two elements can make a huge difference in its appeal to you and a potential buyer down the road.
However, both can be pricey ventures. According to the same study, the national average for minor kitchen remodel was $21,246. A sample remodel at this cost includes replacing cabinet fronts, flooring, laminate countertops and oven and cooktop; installing mid-priced sink and faucet, adding wall cover and repainting trim.
The national average for a mid-range bathroom remodel was $15,899, which included replacing fixtures, installing a porcelain-on-steel tub, new shower and ceramic tile flooring.
If you’re like many consumers today, you are more budget conscious and may not be able to afford thousands of dollars on a remodeling project. Here are some alternatives that will give your kitchen and bathroom a fresh, modern look without breaking your piggy bank.
Kitchen Cabinets—Give your cabinets a fresh look by either refinishing or refacing the fronts at a more economical cost than buying new ones. You can even take the center face out and install a glass front.
Hardware—Replacing your cabinet knobs and drawer pulls, can give your kitchen an entirely new look.
Paint—A fresh coat of paint is always a sure bet. And it is one of the least expensive ways to give a room a makeover. To further transform the room, choose more modern hues, such as a warm yellow or deep red.
Countertops—The price of natural quartz or stone countertops can quickly eat away your kitchen remodeling budget. Less expensive, yet still attractive alternatives are solid surface materials such as Silestone® or granite and ceramic tiles. An even more affordable choice is laminate, which is easy to install yourself and comes in a variety of colors and styles.
Faucets and Sinks—Add a fresh new look by replacing your sink and faucet with a high-arched spout in an updated finish, such as brushed nickel, brushed chrome or stainless steel.
Backsplash—Another option to modernize your kitchen’s look is adding a backsplash. But rather than having ceramic tiles, consider creating a mosaic with ceramic or glass or install a faux backsplash panel.
Window treatments—Switch out older valances with options that let the natural light in.
Lighting—By adding under cabinet lights or even track lighting, you can create a dramatic look to your kitchen.
Bathroom Paint—As with the kitchen, a new coat of paint is a low-cost way to renew a room’s look. Choose a warm color to give the room an intimate feel.
Showerheads—Change out old showerheads with a new rain showerhead.
Shower Doors – If you still use shower curtains for your bathtub, you can update the look by installing glass doors. Frameless doors are preferable. However, if the walls aren’t flush to the tub area, framed doors will still give you the modernized look you’re seeking.
Hardware—Just as with the kitchen, replacing the knobs and handles can give your vanity a fresh new appearance.
Lighting and Mirrors—In addition to the vanity, the lighting and mirrors above that area can combine to make the perfect focal piece for your bathroom. If changing the vanity is not in your budget, consider swapping out your unframed glass for a more decorative mirror and add a new lighting fixture.
You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to add pizzazz to your kitchen or bath. Just changing one or two elements can make a huge difference in its appeal to you and a potential buyer down the road.
Joanne Genesio can be reached at (215) 260-6011.
Prudential is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Remodel with Practicality
As many homes on the market today are sitting longer, and selling less frequently, many are looking for new methods of attracting buyers. Homeowners are hoping to create a more appealing curb appearance, and home design. To do this, many are looking at remodeling as the solution. The goal is to remodel the home without depleting savings, and budgets to accomplish it. Thus, most remodeling minded homeowners are turning the practical remodeling choices.
In many surveys done over the last couple of years, almost half of all homeowners would opt to replace their windows over their carpet or kitchen, if the opportunity presented itself. The thinking displayed in several of these surveys indicates that the homeowners would be selecting green products. This would allow them to save money in the future, add value to the home, and improve the durability, safety and soundproofing as added bonuses. Practical results: increase home value; keep money in bank.
Another practical choice of homeowners has been the siding on their homes. If the remodeling bug met a remodeling budget, putting insulated, energy efficient and disaster resistant siding on their homes would nearly top the list. The industry is paying attention to the home remodeling drive, and developing and improving on current forms of eco-friendly siding. Practical results: improve home safety and efficiency; keep costs down.
As a homeowner seeking to remodel you should keep in mind that your options are not limited, unless you limit them. It is possible to remodel with energy efficient and environmentally friendly products, while keeping your bank account happy. It is possible to improve your home value, and comfort for far less than traditional expectations.
~Joanne
In many surveys done over the last couple of years, almost half of all homeowners would opt to replace their windows over their carpet or kitchen, if the opportunity presented itself. The thinking displayed in several of these surveys indicates that the homeowners would be selecting green products. This would allow them to save money in the future, add value to the home, and improve the durability, safety and soundproofing as added bonuses. Practical results: increase home value; keep money in bank.
Another practical choice of homeowners has been the siding on their homes. If the remodeling bug met a remodeling budget, putting insulated, energy efficient and disaster resistant siding on their homes would nearly top the list. The industry is paying attention to the home remodeling drive, and developing and improving on current forms of eco-friendly siding. Practical results: improve home safety and efficiency; keep costs down.
As a homeowner seeking to remodel you should keep in mind that your options are not limited, unless you limit them. It is possible to remodel with energy efficient and environmentally friendly products, while keeping your bank account happy. It is possible to improve your home value, and comfort for far less than traditional expectations.
~Joanne
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