tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26499141267996374032024-03-05T23:28:47.128-08:00Remodeling HellHow the unpredictable demons of remodeling houses taught expensive and hellish lessons to a trusting guy.Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.comBlogger168125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-46981522194531758022016-08-29T23:55:00.000-07:002016-08-29T23:55:02.220-07:00How Much Should You Tip Contractors, Landscapers, and Other Home Pros?<span class="by"></span><br /><div class="content-area single col-sm-12 col-md-8 col-lg-9" id="primary">
<article class="post-271254 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-advice category-home-improvement tag-tipping-cleaners tag-tipping-household-help tag-tipping-movers" id="post-271254"><section class="row"><div class="entry-meta col-sm-3">
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<span class="author vcard"><a class="url fn n" data-omtag="news:article:author:top" href="http://www.realtor.com/author/lisa-kaplan-gordon/">Lisa Kaplan Gordon</a></span></div>
</div>
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<figure class="no-caption"><img alt="tip-jar" class="attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image" height="225" src="http://rdcnewscdn.realtor.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/tip-jar.jpg" width="400" /><figcaption><div class="credit">
Catherine Lane/iStock</div>
</figcaption></figure>We
all know that tipping a waiter is proper (and expected!) dining-out
etiquette. But how much should you tip general contractors, landscapers,
painters, and other professionals who help keep your home in tiptop
shape. In fact, should you tip them <em>at a</em><em>ll</em>?<br />
<br />
The easiest way to clear up this question, of course, is to simply
ask the company or contractor you’re using what is the tipping policy
before you even agree to a deal. Yeah, it’s a bit awkward—but it’s
nothing compared with getting it completely wrong. And since
tipping customs can vary a lot by region—people in Bismarck, ND, may not
tip the same as those on New York’s Upper East Side—you could get some
community advice from people who live nearby.<br />
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Author and manners expert <strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Good-Manners-Nice-People-Sometimes/dp/1250030714" target="_blank">Amy Alkin</a> </strong>suggests
you play it straight and say: “I’m new in this neighborhood, and I want
to do the right thing, and I’m wondering, do you know what people
around here tip?”<br />
<br />
Still looking for guidelines? Here’s your crash course on whom to
tip, how much to give, and how to show your appreciation in other ways
as well. No gratuity necessary!<br />
<h2>
Handymen</h2>
In some places, a handyman earns more than $100 an hour and doesn’t
expect a tip. However, if you’ve found a go-to helper who frequently
does odd jobs around the house for, say, $20 an hour—change high
lightbulbs, move heavy objects, wax floors— then a holiday or
postproject gift equal to his daily fee is appreciated.<br />
<br />
An <a href="https://www.angieslist.com/articles/should-i-tip-my-remodeling-contractor.htm" target="_blank">Angie’s List</a>
survey of 5,000 home service professionals around the U.S. found that
only a small percentage of handymen, 7%, say they routinely receive
tips, although that number jumps to 28% when they’ve performed extra
services and kindnesses beyond the original scope of work.<br />
<h2>
Painters</h2>
Painters generally don’t expect tips, especially if you’ve hired a
small company where the boss and his brothers are painting your
house. Tipping is a must, however, if you ask a painter to touch up that
little scuff on the dining room wall, which wasn’t in the original
contract. Most painters will oblige, and you should reward their
generosity with a $15 to $20 tip if the extra work takes an hour or
less.<br />
<h2>
Contractors/remodelers</h2>
When it comes to general contractors, the question isn’t how much you
should tip but whether you should at all. And in general, the answer is
no.<br />
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Please, Mr. Postman</h4>
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Tipping
is not expected by general contractors and their crews who pop the top
of your home or remodel your kitchen. The Angie’s List survey says that
remodeling companies expect a tip only 6% of the time, though 18%
receive tips for top-notch service.<br />
<br />
However, you may choose to add a clause in your cost-plus remodeling
contract that pays a bonus if the contractor completes the project early
or under budget. This is more an incentive than a show of appreciation,
and can be a percentage of estimated money saved or a flat fee, perhaps
$500 to $1,000 for a major project like a large kitchen remodel.<br />
<br />
Other ways to show appreciation for a job well done is to write a
great review of the contractor on sites such as Yelp or its local
equivalent. Looking for a more personal touch? If you’ve gotten along
well with the general contractor who built your house, consider inviting
him to dinner so he can see how much you love the fruits of his labor.<br />
<h2>
Decorators</h2>
Decorators, who often charge hourly and a percentage of whatever they
purchase for you, also don’t usually expect tips. Referrals, yes.<br />
<br />
Actually, it’s common for a decorator to give the client a little
present after a particularly lucrative job—a gift bag or the perfect
bowl to set on the new dining room table.<br />
<h2>
Plumbers, electricians, the cable guy</h2>
Again, no tipping is necessary because these skilled tradesmen work
either for themselves—as a general rule, you don’t have to tip business
owners—or for large companies that may prohibit tipping.<br />
Even though tipping is inappropriate, it’s always nice to offer
people who work in your home a cold drink (um, not alcohol), and to
thank them specifically for their prompt and skilled work.<br />
<br />
Also, give great workers a heartfelt shoutout on review sites such
as Yelp or Angie’s List. It is, in fact, the gift that keeps giving.<br />
<h2>
Lawn care workers and landscapers<strong><br />
</strong></h2>
It’s impractical and unnecessary to tip the guys who mow your lawn
every week, though it’s nice to put a pitcher of cold water out for the
workers. If the same crew arrives every Thursday, at the end of the
season you can show your appreciation with $20 to $50 cash tip each.<br />
<br />
However, when you ask a landscaper to do something extra, like prune a
hanging branch, slip him something extra, from $10 to $20 depending on
how long the task takes.<br />
<br />
Alkin says we all have an “inner accountant” who notices when others are “taking us for a ride.”<br />
“If you’re generous, others won’t approach you in a nickel-and-dimey, suspicious way,” she says.<br />
<h2>
House cleaners<strong><br />
</strong></h2>
If the same cleaning lady makes your home sparkle each week, a big
tip is expected during the holidays, typically a week’s wages presented
in a card with a personal message of appreciation.<br />
If you hire a cleaning crew, tipping is not expected or required. At
the end of the year, or after a major project, however, you can give
each crew member a small gift, or divide the price of a cleaning session
among the crew.<strong></strong><br />
<strong><br />
</strong><br />
<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-47210015184931593662016-07-15T06:30:00.000-07:002016-08-24T23:50:44.620-07:00Boosting curb appeal<div class="trb_ar_hl">
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Top 5 tips to aid power of your home's 1st impression
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<span class="trb_ar_by_nm_pm"><span class="trb_ar_by_nm_au" data-byline-withoutby=""><span itemprop="author">Leslie Mann</span></span><span class="trb_ar_by_nm_pb">Chicago Tribune</span></span></div>
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<time class="trb_ar_dateline_time" data-dt="May 26, 2016, 12:03 PM" datetime="2016-05-26T12:03:02CDT" itemprop="datePublished"></time>
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Whether you plan to sell your house this year or after your
last child leaves the nest, being a homeowner includes keeping the house
in tip-top shape.<br />
<br />
Yes, you can boost your sale price by updating
your kitchens and bathrooms, but buyers will never even see your home's
interior if the exterior scares them off.<br />
<br />
Every house needs curb appeal. You want your house to say "welcome"
to prospective buyers, not, as Oz said in the "Wizard of Oz," "Go
away!"<br />
<br />
Following are some suggestions from experts in the field and homeowners who have upped the curb appeal of their homes.<br />
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From Tribune Publishing's Real Estate Network<br />
<br />
</div>
</aside><strong>Be objective </strong><br />
"Step back and look at
your house as though you've never seen it before," said Chip Wade, host
of HGTV's "Elbow Room" and a home-improvement consultant for Liberty
Mutual Insurance. "Even if you don't use it, there should be a clearly
defined path to your front door. After dark, the entry should have
sufficient lighting. The address numerals should be visible and easy to
read. If your front door needs to be replaced, now's the time."<br />
<br />
Buyers
will notice if your house needs a new roof or siding. These are costly,
but they can make or break the sale. Long-term warranties tell the
buyers they don't have to worry about re-doing these projects.<br />
<aside class="trb_embed" data-content-id="87338238" data-content-size="large" data-content-slug="ct-curb-appeal-1980s-jpg-20160526" data-content-subtype="photo" data-content-type="image" data-embed-id="87338238" data-role="socialshare_item imgsize_ratiosizecontainer lightbox_container " data-state=""> <div class="trb_embed_modalBox">
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<span class="trb_embed_media_info" data-role="embed_info lightbox_info"></span><figure class="trb_embed_imageContainer_figure" data-role="imgsize_item"><img alt="Elgin home in 1980s" class="trb_embed_imageContainer_img" data-baseurl="http://www.trbimg.com/img-57472cc6/turbine/ct-curb-appeal-1980s-jpg-20160526" data-c-nd="746x586" data-height="400" data-ratio="16x9" data-width="700" itemprop="image" src="http://www.trbimg.com/img-57472cc6/turbine/ct-curb-appeal-1980s-jpg-20160526/700/700x394" title="Elgin home in 1980s" /></figure> <span class="trb_embed_media_open" data-role="lightbox_open"></span><div class="trb_embed_related" data-role="lightbox_metadata">
<div class="trb_embed_related_credit_and_caption">
A
photo from the 1980s shows the 19th-century house that Chris and
Rebekah Berry later purchased. The couple have since restored the
exterior. (Chris Berry)</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</aside>One
of Wade's biggest bugaboos is the garage door, which can hog the screen
in your house photo. "It's a necessary evil," he said. "But a
substantial one will look better than a 'builder-grade' door. The new
wood-look doors look real but are not as heavy as real wood."<br />
<br />
Ideally,
your house has a front porch, said Wade. "Short of that, you can add a
portico that's big enough to keep your guests dry when it's raining," he
said.<br />
<br />
Before you add either to your house, read your city's
building rules and neighborhood covenants. They may say, for example,
that there must be at least 40 feet between your home and the curb or
you can't use certain materials that are not common in the neighborhood,
such as vinyl siding.<br />
<br />
If you have a front porch that's just
decorative and not deep enough for chairs, it detracts from your house's
curb appeal, said Wade. Hire a contractor to remove this 1980s amenity,
which only looked good on paper.<br />
<br />
Adding a portico costs $2,500 or more.<br />
<strong>Enlist the experts </strong><br />
"We
did a lot of the work ourselves," said Chris Berry of the 19th-century
house he and his wife, Rebekah, remodeled in Elgin. "But first, we got
professional advice."<br />
Before they bought paint, they hired a color
specialist who helped them choose a set of colors that would have been
used when the house was built. "And we hired a landscape designer to
draft a plan that took summer and winter light into consideration, then
planted the plants ourselves to save money," Berry said.<br />
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<span class="trb_embed_media_info" data-role="embed_info lightbox_info"></span><figure class="trb_embed_imageContainer_figure" data-role="imgsize_item"><img alt="Elgin house in 2012" class="trb_embed_imageContainer_img" data-baseurl="http://www.trbimg.com/img-57472cd7/turbine/ct-curb-appeal-2012-jpg-20160526" data-c-nd="2048x1530" data-height="400" data-ratio="16x9" data-width="700" itemprop="image" src="http://www.trbimg.com/img-57472cd7/turbine/ct-curb-appeal-2012-jpg-20160526/700/700x394" title="Elgin house in 2012" /></figure> <span class="trb_embed_media_open" data-role="lightbox_open"></span><div class="trb_embed_related" data-role="lightbox_metadata">
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A
photo shows the appareance of Chris and Rebekah Berry's Elgin house
when they bought it in 2012. The couple remodeled the home, doing much
of the work themselves. (Chris Berry)</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</aside>To
define the Berrys' corner lot, the landscape designer suggested they
install an aluminum fence with a wrought-iron look. The designer was
spot-on, Berry said. The fence frames the front-yard view of the house
and saves their plants from being trampled by kids who attend the grade
school across the street.<br />
If you can't afford the pros, take
advantage of apps and manufacturers' websites that let you post a photo
of your house, then "paint" it different colors or add amenities.<br />
For a landscape design, not including plants or installation, set aside at least $500.<br />
<strong>Respect the house's origins </strong><br />
As
you undo the remuddling your house suffered, "don't fight the house's
original style," said John Potter, architect with Morgante Wilson
Architects in Evanston. "A professional designer can help you work with
it."<br />
When Potter designed a remodel of Renee and Garrick Lau's
1896 Italianate house in Wilmette, he chose materials his predecessors
would have used in the late 1800s.<br />
"We used 3-inch-exposure cedar
siding, painted sage, with white trim," said Potter. "We gave the house a
wooden front door, beadboard porch ceiling and wooden front steps."<br />
Potter kept the home's original, wavy-glass windows. What they lack in energy efficiency, he said, they have in character.<br />
Sometimes the house's original exterior is there, but hidden.<br />
"Under
a layer of aluminum siding was the original siding and architectural
details including sunbursts and half-round windows," said Berry.<br />
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<span class="trb_embed_media_info" data-role="embed_info lightbox_info"></span><figure class="trb_embed_imageContainer_figure" data-role="imgsize_item"><img alt="Porch of Elgin home" class="trb_embed_imageContainer_img" data-baseurl="http://www.trbimg.com/img-57472cd8/turbine/ct-ct-ct-re-0529-curb-appeal2-jpg-20160526" data-c-nd="2048x1365" data-height="400" data-ratio="16x9" data-width="700" height="225" itemprop="image" src="http://www.trbimg.com/img-57472cd8/turbine/ct-ct-ct-re-0529-curb-appeal2-jpg-20160526/700/700x394" title="Porch of Elgin home" width="400" /></figure> <span class="trb_embed_media_open" data-role="lightbox_open"></span><div class="trb_embed_related" data-role="lightbox_metadata">
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Chris
Berry sits on his front steps May 23, 2016, in Elgin. When remodeling,
Berry and his wife, Rebekah, hired a color specialist who helped them
choose a set of colors that would have been used when the house was
built. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</aside>The
Berrys do their own home-improvement jobs to save money, but Berry
estimates it would cost about $25,000 to repair original clapboards,
replace rotted areas, recreate damaged ornamentation and paint the whole
exterior. This is for a 2,000-square-foot house.<br />
<strong>Weigh cost vs. value </strong><br />
Before
you embark on home improvements that will enhance your home's curb
appeal, consider how much money you'll recoup when you sell the place.<br />
Lucky for you, Remodeling magazine compiles an annual cost vs. value report.<br />
If
you replace your unsightly front door, for example, you can recoup 72
percent of your cost if you get a fiberglass one or 101.8 percent if you
buy one that's steel. You'll get 88.4 percent of your money back at
resale if you buy a new garage door.<br />
A new roof costs about
$19,528, said the report, but you'll get 71.6 percent ($13,975) of that
back at resale. Windows are costly, too, but yield a 72.9 percent
payback if they're vinyl and 78.8 percent if they're wood.<br />
If you
are not selling the house soon, add the value of having that amenity
while you live in the house. Many a homeowner says he wishes he had made
the upgrade years ago instead of making it prior to selling.<br />
A subscription to Remodeling will set you back $24.95.<br />
<strong>Greenbacks for greenery </strong><br />
There are two components to curb appeal — the house itself and the plants that give the property life.<br />
For the lush lawn that buyers want, consider a professional lawn service for fertilizing and weed control.<br />
If you have at least three months until you list your house, the service can seed and aerate it, too.<br />
If you're listing the house soon, splurge on sod for an instant upgrade.<br />
Trim or replace foundation plants that hide the view of your house from the street. Edge the lawn for a tidy look.<br />
Post
large planters on either side of the front door. If you don't have a
green thumb, fill the pots with faux boxwood, said the experts at The
Silk Thumb in Highwood. They cost more than the real McCoys, but are
maintenance-free and look real.<br />
Grass treatments cost $100 and up, depending on the size of your lawn.<br />
<br />
Today's buyers start their home shopping on their computers or smartphones.</div>
"The first picture they see is the front exterior, so if that's not
good, they won't go any further," said David Yocum, a real estate agent
with Redfin's Chicago office. "If there are no pictures online, the
buyer assumes there's something really wrong with the house and isn't
interested at all."<br />
If buyers like what they see online, they ask their agents to schedule tours.<br />
For a set of professional photos of the house, you'll spend $500 or
more. Many real estate agents cover this cost, though, for properties
they list.<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-91084647500981821492016-06-20T10:00:00.000-07:002016-08-24T23:46:32.004-07:00Tips to Stage Your Home to Sell<div class="copy-paste-block">
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<br />by <span class="vcard author" itemprop="name"><span class="fn"><a href="http://www.quickenloans.com/blog/author/john-allasio" itemprop="author" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person" rel="author" title="Posts by John Allasio">John Allasio</a></span></span></article><article class="single-blog-article clr" itemprop="blogPost" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/BlogPosting"><span class="vcard author" itemprop="name"><span class="fn"> </span></span><div class="entry clr" itemprop="text">
Put your best foot forward.<br />
<br />
Make a good first impression.<br />
<br />
First impressions are the most lasting.<br />
<br />
What I’m trying to say is, when it comes to houses, prospective
buyers are going to judge your house based on their first, two-second
impression of it, whether or not they should.<br />
<br />
When others make strong judgments based on first impressions, it’s
usually seen as a negative. Instead, look at your home’s first
impression as an opportunity for you to get a leg up on your competition
by wowing potential homebuyers.<br />
<br />
Home staging is setting your home up as a neutral space where buyers
can easily imagine the drama of their life unfolding. Home staging
doesn’t have to mean dropping 10 or 20 grand on remodeling. A lot of it
is doing <a href="http://www.quickenloans.com/blog/staging-home-budget" target="_blank">all the little things</a>
right – making your home appear as attractive as possible and then
getting out of your own way so buyers can see how they, not you, would
live in the home.<br />
<br />
I asked Joe Delia with Keller Williams Royal Oak Market Place for tips on how to best stage your home for a quick sell.<br />
<h2>
The Basics</h2>
<h3>
Listing Photos</h3>
Put some effort into the listing photos – maybe even hire a
professional photographer. Buyers sort through many, many listings
online. If your photos fail to grab their attention, they may not even
give your home a chance.<br />
<h3>
Clean Up</h3>
Clean and tidy goes a long way. “When it’s dirty, people focus on
that,” explains Delia. Clean isn’t enough – make your home spotless.<br />
<h3>
Declutter</h3>
The close cousin to clean and tidy is decluttering your home. People
have a hard time envisioning their belongings in a home when it’s packed
with someone else’s stuff.<br />
The seller should remove as much clutter as possible. Less furniture
makes the space look bigger. The furniture you do leave out should be up
for entertaining. Make traffic flow obvious to buyers.<br />
<h3>
Depersonalize the Space</h3>
Removing personal items like family photos is another important thing
to do. It’s hard for buyers to envision themselves in an empty home and
equally as hard to envision themselves in a home full of someone else’s
life and mementoes.<br />
<h3>
Make it Bright and Open</h3>
Lots of natural light and storage space are helpful too. Bright,
open, refreshing and relaxing are some of the feelings potential buyers
want to sense when walking through your home.<br />
<h2>
Decorating and Updating</h2>
<h3>
Be Consistent</h3>
A consistent décor theme is more important than having all the newest
updates/materials. A buyer should be able to come into your home and
immediately sense a flow, an order to the home and be able to picture
themselves in that flow, Delia states.<br />
If you have some brushed nickel and some brass hardware in your home,
for example, replace one or the other so that everything matches. Avoid
a combination of styles, like ultra-modern and antique, as much as
possible too. Decide on a look for your home and commit to it.<br />
Putting in new cupboard or drawer fronts and hardware and repainting
your home in neutral colors are some relatively cheap fixes that will
significantly revitalize your home. Setting out fresh fruit or flowers
greatly increases the appeal and hominess of your home, without making
it feel personal to you.<br />
<h3>
Remodeling vs. Updating</h3>
You can go for more extensive remodeling like a whole kitchen or
bathroom overhaul if you want, but just adding some nice furniture, art
pieces or stainless steel appliances (that stay with the home) will be
more cost effective in <a href="http://www.quickenloans.com/blog/preparing-to-sell-your-home" target="_blank">increasing your home’s appeal</a>.<br />
Make bedrooms as serene as possible; don’t make bedrooms gender
specific. Update bathrooms including tub, shower and vanities, clean
grimy walls, change fixtures, clean shower doors. Paint out dated tiles
on bathroom walls.<br />
<h2>
Outdoor Tactics</h2>
Remember that first impression? It started with the images the buyer
saw online and is largely cemented in their mind when they drive up to
your home, so make it look great!<br />
<ul>
<li>Power wash your driveway, deck, outside of home, etc.</li>
<li>Cut the grass regularly</li>
<li>Keep bushes and shrubs well-trimmed</li>
<li>Clear out weeds</li>
<li>Add flowers or other colorful accents to improve curb appeal</li>
<li>Get rid of any dead plants</li>
</ul>
The bottom line is that it’s absolutely worth spending some time,
effort and a little money to increase the appeal of your home. At the
same time, don’t think you need hardwood floors, granite countertops and
vaulted ceilings to get people to look at your home.<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-87541370601339865662016-06-15T00:12:00.000-07:002016-08-25T00:12:58.210-07:007 Remodeling Tips<div class="author-card__details">
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This is the busiest time of year for remodels. Most homeowners like
to start their remodel now so it is completed by the new school year and
the holiday season. Summer is a convenient time for a family to travel
while their home is being worked on.<br />
</div>
<div class="content-list-component mt-paragraph text">
The home
remodel experience should be fun and rewarding. You are essentially
getting a new home to meet your family’s lifestyle and needs without
moving. However, you may have heard stories from friends and family
whose remodel turned into a nightmare. For example, a job that was
supposed to take six months to complete went on for over a year. Not
only is your happiness about the remodel squashed, but you also have a
bitter taste in your mouth and won’t feel the same about it in the end.
The delays and the stress take the joy out of it. If your remodel needs
to go on hold in the middle of the job, then the original budget goes
out the window.<br />
</div>
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The keys to not
having this happen are to know what to look for, who to hire, and see
the warning signs. Here are 7 tips to help avoid a nightmare remodel.<br />
</div>
<div class="content-list-component mt-paragraph text">
<strong>1) Moving Out or Staying in Your Home:</strong> Are you
prepared to either move out or stay and camp out while your remodel is
being done? To move out means additional costs if you don’t have a
second home to go to. To stay in your home means living with a temporary
kitchen and in a more confined space with inevitable added stress.<br />
</div>
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<strong>2) Hiring the Essential Players:</strong>
The architect, designer, space planner, kitchen and bath designer, and
contractor are the four most essential players to the project. You
should also be aware that hiring a professional educated interior
designer who does space planning is much different than hiring a
decorator who does furniture and drapes. You need the appropriate person
to draw the plans because it is not only about the home’s design
architecturally, but also how the space is designed and functions along
with the overall style. Letting your contractor play designer doesn’t
work.</div>
<div class="content-list-component mt-paragraph text">
<strong>3) Creating Good Plans:</strong>
You need to have plans that work. This allows you to achieve a budget
and stick to it. Sometimes a homeowner will think they hired the right
person to draw them. However, the architect or designer who drew the
plans has to understand city rules, residential design, and construction
in general. They also need to understand space planning and kitchen
design or the plans just won’t work. Even if the plans are complete but
not everything is reviewed in advance, there will be surprises and added
costs.<br />
</div>
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<strong>4) Making Decisions and Selections:</strong>
For budget and timing reasons, all design decisions and material
selections should be made in advance of starting the project. A
well-known fact in all remodels is the “unknown” behind the walls. This
cannot be avoided. The other unknown to the professionals is how the
client will react and how many changes they will make “after” the jobs
starts. My best advice to a client is if they have a budget, they want
to stick to. Do not under any circumstances make changes or add to the
scope of work after the work starts. It’s a nightmare of additional
costs on top of delays.<br />
</div>
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<strong>5) Determining Your Style:</strong>
It’s best to work with a professional designer to help guide you
through this process. The professional design process is executed in a
way that is supposed to allow you to see all the options and, at same
time, fine-tune the options while establishing the style. In the end, it
has to not only have style, but it also must function so it will all
work for the homeowner. Getting there can be overwhelming and proper
guidance is the key.<br />
</div>
<div class="content-list-component mt-paragraph text">
<strong>6) Avoiding the Owner-Builder Route:</strong>
The biggest nightmare is when a homeowner starts their project without a
permit or a plan. They try to hire all of the sub-contractors
themselves as an owner-builder without hiring a contractor. They manage
the project with no experience and think the process is easy because
it’s their house. The risk to the homeowner is very high in this
situation. A homeowner will usually spend much more time and money in
the end if they choose to go the owner-builder route. Then it will be
too late when they realize that they need a professional to take over
and finish the job right.<br />
</div>
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<strong>7) Checking References:</strong>
It’s amazing how many contractors aren’t who they say they are. You
want to make sure that your contractor is legitimate: licensed, bonded,
and insured. Actually check his license and make sure it’s valid. Check
his references. Ask for proof of insurance. It’s illegal to work without
it. If they don’t have it, then you stop.<br />
<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-82267513178426040262016-05-12T08:30:00.000-07:002016-08-24T23:44:10.579-07:00 Experts offer tips for homeowners thinking about remodeling <div class="node-title">
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<br />Many
Central Ohio contractors say in the spring their business warms up. Now
experts are offering tips to homeowners thinking about taking on a home
remodeling project.<br />
<br />
"Being in German Village and looking around at different houses, we
felt this one had everything we were looking for,” said homeowner Angie
Steinhauser. “But every room needed a facelift.”<br />
Steinhauser and her partner Ziad Shaheen hired a contractor and went
room-by-room replacing light fixtures, updating walls and in some cases,
tearing out drywall.<br />
<br />
“We had to tear out something we called the ‘Medusa light’
immediately,” said Shaheen. He went on to say remodeling was not easy.
“Just living with contractors, in general. Not anything personal, just
the clutter and mess that comes with all of that."<br /><br /> That is why
the first piece of advice the couple offers to others is to be careful
in selecting the companies who will help you renovate.<br />
<br />
"We interviewed a lot of contractors,” said Steinhauser. “I think
finding the right contractor who you're going to work well with can make
a big difference."<br />
<br />
The tip is echoed by Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. Days ago he
filed a lawsuit against a home improvement contractor for failing to
deliver promised services. The lawsuit accuses Columbus-based 5 Star
Remodeling LLC and owner Robert Turnquest of violating Ohio’s Consumer
Sales Practices Act.<br />
<br />
In several consumer complaints, customers said they paid for home
improvement work they never received and that the company did not
provide refunds.<br />
<br />
“In this case, we found that consumers paid thousands of dollars for
work they never received,” Attorney General DeWine said. “We’re seeking
recovery for affected consumers and protection for other consumers so
they don’t experience the same problems.” <br />
<br />
Attorney General DeWine offered tips to avoid home improvement problems:<br />
<ul>
<li>Research contractors carefully. Ask neighbors, friends, or
family members for recommendations. Review complaints on file with the
Ohio Attorney General’s Office and the Better Business Bureau. Check
with the Ohio Secretary of State to confirm that the business is
properly registered.</li>
<li>Get written estimates from several contractors before making a final
decision. Be skeptical of an estimate that is much lower than others.
If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.</li>
<li>Read any documents a contractor gives you before signing them. Don’t rely on verbal claims. </li>
<li>Be wary if you have to pay a large down payment, such as half of the total cost.</li>
<li>Make sure the written contract includes the start and end dates and an itemized list of all material costs, labor, and services.</li>
</ul>
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-14359732026687692322016-04-28T07:00:00.000-07:002016-04-28T07:00:28.806-07:00<div class="article-title">
<h1 itemprop="headline">
Tips for building an outdoor kitchen for clients</h1>
</div>
<div class="article-byline">
By <strong>Steve Constable</strong>
</div>
<div class="vance-interactive flex space-between">
<a class="print-article" href="http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/best-practices-guide/components-hardware-assembly/tips-building-outdoor-kitchen-clients#"><span><br /></span></a>
</div>
<figure class="article-featured-image vance-module vance-marginalia pull-left" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject">
<div class="module-wrapper">
<img alt="" height="339" itemprop="image" src="http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/sites/woodworking/files/field/image/Richelieu%20End-Unit-White-1024x870.jpg" width="400" />
<div class="photo-credits" style="width: 300px;">
<div class="photo-credit" itemprop="author">
Photo by Richelieu</div>
</div>
</div>
</figure>
Outdoor kitchens have been
growing in popularity over the years. The benefit of learning how to
build an outdoor kitchen is that the profit margins are traditionally
higher than standard indoor kitchen remodels given that the select group
of contractors with the skill of installing them is small and their
services are in demand.<br />
<br />
The outdoor kitchen is comprised of four distinct zones: the hot
zone, which is where your grill, cook top and pizza oven goes; a wet
zone, which is where your sink goes; a cold zone where you keep your
cooler or refrigerator; and a dry zone, which is where you want to keep
cooking and storage items dry.<br />
<br />
Of all the zones within the outdoor kitchen the dry zone requires the
most specialized equipment. Special water-tight and water-resistant
cabinets will need to be put in to keep storage items dry. Among the
offerings are NatureKast high-density resin and Werever marine-grade
HDPE cabinetry that are so impervious you can clean them with a water
hose. Kalamazoo also makes beautiful stainless steel cabinets and
appliances for the outdoors.<br />
<div class="inline-image">
<img alt="" class="media-image" height="181" src="http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/sites/woodworking/files/Werever-easy-to-clean-outdoor-cabinets.jpg" width="400" /> </div>
<div class="inline-image">
Werever marine-grade cabinetry</div>
In regards to appliances for an outdoor kitchen, Kalamazoo makes the
nicest, most durable appliances you can buy. They make warming drawers
and side burners. They even make outdoor dishwashers, which is a real
luxury item if you think about it.<br />
<br />
Another aspect of building an outdoor kitchen is to select the right
grade of tile. Tiles that work best outside are high-grade porcelain
tiles, which are nearly impervious to moisture, and quarry tiles that
are highly durable in structure. Another building material you can
consider working with is stained concrete with a durable layer of
polymer coating. If you choose to stamp the concrete you want a very
low stamp level, which will make cracking less of likelihood. Also if
you want to put wood deck flooring in your outdoor kitchen, pick the
most water-impervious grade of wood you can. Epay wood is a highly
recommended outdoor wood flooring option. Remember sourcing the most
durable materials you can and paying more initially is better in the
long run as the life of the kitchen can be extended into many decades of
time.<br />
<br />
Although many keep the outdoor kitchen as closely adjacent to the
indoor one as possible, it should not be relegated to just the backyard.
You can put outdoor kitchens on the roof as well.<br />
Building an outdoor kitchen is not a necessity but it is a luxury
symbol. Many homeowners appreciate what an outdoor kitchen can provide
in terms of entertaining guests, and may be eager to have one custom
built.<br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Remodeling-Hell-Charles-G-Irion/dp/0984161880/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1355267718&sr=8-1&keywords=Remodeling+Hell">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-75600637582238928822016-04-22T07:00:00.000-07:002016-04-22T07:00:18.223-07:006 spring chores to do now to protect your home's value<section class="storytopbar-bucket story-byline-module story-story-byline-module" id="module-position-O94HlubviaA"><div class="asset-metabar">
<span class="asset-metabar-author asset-metabar-item"><a href="http://www.usatoday.com/staff/1861/lisa-kiplinger/" rel="author"> Lisa Kiplinger</a> </span><span class="asset-metabar-time asset-metabar-item nobyline"></span></div>
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As
of early Sunday morning on the East Coast, spring officially has
sprung. But before you break out in your happy dance, you've got some
work to do. To protect what's probably your biggest investment, it's
important to take care of a few spring chores. Nino Sitchinava
— principal economist at <a href="http://www.houzz.com/">Houzz.com</a>, a leading platform for home remodeling and design — offers her top tips for getting your property back in shape after winter:<br />
<div class="story-asset image-asset" id="module-position-O94Hlzv8mYE">
<aside class="single-photo float" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"><img alt="Nino Sitchinava is principal economist at Houzz.com." data-mycapture-sm-src="" data-mycapture-src="" height="240" itemprop="url" src="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/334596f1eb269093bc0c910c121d7fb3d65ed73d/c=87-0-644-742&r=183&c=0-0-180-240/local/-/media/2016/03/17/USATODAY/USATODAY/635938214641213249-Nino-Sitchinava.jpg" width="180" />Nino Sitchinava is principal economist at Houzz.com. <span class="credit">(Photo: Houzz.com)</span><br />
</aside></div>
<strong>1. Tackle any drainage issues.</strong> The <a href="http://info.houzz.com/rs/804-JLJ-529/images/2016HouzzLandscapingStudy.pdf">2016 Houzz Landscaping Trends</a>
study revealed that drainage issues are the top challenge homeowners
face when updating their yards. After winter, you likely know where
excess water pools around your home. Spring is the best time to fix this
to avoid erosion and mold issues.<br />
<br />
<strong>2. Fix a leaking roof.</strong> During
winter, it's common to patch or tarp a roof as a temporary fix for
leaks, but now is the time to resolve issues for good. According to the
2015 Houzz & Home study, which had more than 170,000 respondents in
the U.S., homeowners are nearly two times more likely to remodel their
kitchen (27%) than roofing (15%), an important update when needed.
"Fixing leaks and maintenance repairs should be prioritized ahead of
other remodeling," Sitchinava says. "Leaks can cause problems like pests
and mold. Often these repairs are also lower budget and require less
planning."<br />
<div class="story-asset image-asset" id="module-position-O94HlzxQL4Q">
<aside class="single-photo float" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"><img alt="Winter can be hard on a roof." data-mycapture-sm-src="" data-mycapture-src="" height="240" itemprop="url" src="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/660c8fe65113a98a25ac12859661aff056c1f678/c=0-139-1445-2065&r=183&c=0-0-180-240/local/-/media/2016/03/17/USATODAY/USATODAY/635938166180127961-ThinkstockPhotos-482517298.jpg" width="180" />Winter can be hard on a roof. <span class="credit">(Photo: Getty Images)</span><br />
</aside></div>
<strong>3. Refresh your entry or mudroom.</strong> During
winter, you're likely to track snow, road salt and mud into your entry
or mudroom. In spring, make sure to thoroughly clean your walls, floors
and doors to avoid any long-term damage.<br />
<br />
<strong>4. Clean and repair gutters.</strong> Winter
debris can build in gutters, and it's important to remove it before
spring rains. To avoid water running down the side of your home, check
for places where the gutters may have pulled away from the house. "Termites
and other pests, which become most active during this time of year, are
attracted to moisture," Sitchinava says. "Standing water can create
mold issues and cracks in driveways and paths create tripping hazards."<br />
<br />
<strong>5. Clean siding.</strong> Similar
to your entry or mudroom, salt and mud can build up on the exterior of
your home during the winter. Depending on the type of siding, you can
use a hose or pressure washer to clean your siding.<br />
<br />
<strong>6. Update paths and your driveway.</strong> Often
driveways and paths crack during the winter, especially in regions that
experience freezing conditions. During landscaping projects, more than
half of homeowners update their paths (51%) and 17% update their
driveways, according to the 2016 Houzz Landscaping Trends study.<br />
<br />
"Often,
it's not an option to resolve these issues during the winter because
it's too cold to have workers on site and there may still be snow on the
ground in colder climates. So, it's important to address them ASAP in
the spring."<br />
<br />
<div class="row">
<div class="columns small-12">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Remodeling-Hell-Charles-G-Irion/dp/0984161880/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1355267718&sr=8-1&keywords=Remodeling+Hell">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For more information about the Summit Murder Mystery series, <a href="http://www.summitmurders.com/">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-84458829800394850842016-04-19T09:00:00.000-07:002016-04-19T09:00:23.127-07:00Tips for building an outdoor kitchen for clients
<div class="article-byline">
By <strong>Steve Constable</strong>
</div>
<div class="vance-interactive flex space-between">
<a class="print-article" href="http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/best-practices-guide/components-hardware-assembly/tips-building-outdoor-kitchen-clients#"><span><br /></span></a>
</div>
<figure class="article-featured-image vance-module vance-marginalia pull-left" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject">
<div class="module-wrapper">
<img alt="" height="339" itemprop="image" src="http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/sites/woodworking/files/field/image/Richelieu%20End-Unit-White-1024x870.jpg" width="400" />
<div class="photo-credits" style="width: 300px;">
<div class="photo-credit" itemprop="author">
Photo by Richelieu</div>
</div>
</div>
</figure>
Outdoor kitchens have been
growing in popularity over the years. The benefit of learning how to
build an outdoor kitchen is that the profit margins are traditionally
higher than standard indoor kitchen remodels given that the select group
of contractors with the skill of installing them is small and their
services are in demand.<br />
<br />
The outdoor kitchen is comprised of four distinct zones: the hot
zone, which is where your grill, cook top and pizza oven goes; a wet
zone, which is where your sink goes; a cold zone where you keep your
cooler or refrigerator; and a dry zone, which is where you want to keep
cooking and storage items dry.<br />
<br />
Of all the zones within the outdoor kitchen the dry zone requires the
most specialized equipment. Special water-tight and water-resistant
cabinets will need to be put in to keep storage items dry. Among the
offerings are NatureKast high-density resin and Werever marine-grade
HDPE cabinetry that are so impervious you can clean them with a water
hose. Kalamazoo also makes beautiful stainless steel cabinets and
appliances for the outdoors.<br />
<div class="inline-image">
<img alt="" class="media-image" height="182" src="http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/sites/woodworking/files/Werever-easy-to-clean-outdoor-cabinets.jpg" width="400" /> </div>
<div class="inline-image">
Werever marine-grade cabinetry</div>
In regards to appliances for an outdoor kitchen, Kalamazoo makes the
nicest, most durable appliances you can buy. They make warming drawers
and side burners. They even make outdoor dishwashers, which is a real
luxury item if you think about it.<br />
<br />
Another aspect of building an outdoor kitchen is to select the right
grade of tile. Tiles that work best outside are high-grade porcelain
tiles, which are nearly impervious to moisture, and quarry tiles that
are highly durable in structure. Another building material you can
consider working with is stained concrete with a durable layer of
polymer coating. If you choose to stamp the concrete you want a very
low stamp level, which will make cracking less of likelihood. Also if
you want to put wood deck flooring in your outdoor kitchen, pick the
most water-impervious grade of wood you can. Epay wood is a highly
recommended outdoor wood flooring option. Remember sourcing the most
durable materials you can and paying more initially is better in the
long run as the life of the kitchen can be extended into many decades of
time.<br />
<br />
Although many keep the outdoor kitchen as closely adjacent to the
indoor one as possible, it should not be relegated to just the backyard.
You can put outdoor kitchens on the roof as well.<br />
Building an outdoor kitchen is not a necessity but it is a luxury
symbol. Many homeowners appreciate what an outdoor kitchen can provide
in terms of entertaining guests, and may be eager to have one custom
built.<br />
<br />
<div class="row">
<div class="columns small-12">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Remodeling-Hell-Charles-G-Irion/dp/0984161880/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1355267718&sr=8-1&keywords=Remodeling+Hell">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For more information about Remodeling Hell, <a href="http://www.remodelinghellthebook.com/">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For more information about the Summit Murder Mystery series, <a href="http://www.summitmurders.com/">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-39935599443654643012016-04-01T00:13:00.003-07:002016-04-01T00:13:48.171-07:006 spring chores to do now to protect your home's value<br /><div class="story-asset story-metadata-asset" id="module-position-O7Jj9ecZsXQ">
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As
of early Sunday morning on the East Coast, spring officially has
sprung. But before you break out in your happy dance, you've got some
work to do. To protect what's probably your biggest investment, it's
important to take care of a few spring chores. Nino Sitchinava
— principal economist at <a href="http://www.houzz.com/">Houzz.com</a>, a leading platform for home remodeling and design — offers her top tips for getting your property back in shape after winter:<br />
<div class="story-asset image-asset" id="module-position-O7Jj9ecouKA">
<aside class="single-photo float" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject">Nino Sitchinava is principal economist at Houzz.com. <span class="credit">(Photo: Houzz.com)</span></aside></div>
<strong>1. Tackle any drainage issues.</strong> The <a href="http://info.houzz.com/rs/804-JLJ-529/images/2016HouzzLandscapingStudy.pdf">2016 Houzz Landscaping Trends</a>
study revealed that drainage issues are the top challenge homeowners
face when updating their yards. After winter, you likely know where
excess water pools around your home. Spring is the best time to fix this
to avoid erosion and mold issues.<br />
<strong>2. Fix a leaking roof.</strong> During
winter, it's common to patch or tarp a roof as a temporary fix for
leaks, but now is the time to resolve issues for good. According to the
2015 Houzz & Home study, which had more than 170,000 respondents in
the U.S., homeowners are nearly two times more likely to remodel their
kitchen (27%) than roofing (15%), an important update when needed.
"Fixing leaks and maintenance repairs should be prioritized ahead of
other remodeling," Sitchinava says. "Leaks can cause problems like pests
and mold. Often these repairs are also lower budget and require less
planning."<br />
<div class="story-asset image-asset" id="module-position-O7Jj9edHTWA">
<aside class="single-photo float" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"><img alt="Winter can be hard on a roof." data-mycapture-sm-src="" data-mycapture-src="" height="240" itemprop="url" src="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/660c8fe65113a98a25ac12859661aff056c1f678/c=0-139-1445-2065&r=183&c=0-0-180-240/local/-/media/2016/03/17/USATODAY/USATODAY/635938166180127961-ThinkstockPhotos-482517298.jpg" width="180" />Winter can be hard on a roof. <span class="credit">(Photo: Getty Images)</span></aside></div>
<strong>3. Refresh your entry or mudroom.</strong> During
winter, you're likely to track snow, road salt and mud into your entry
or mudroom. In spring, make sure to thoroughly clean your walls, floors
and doors to avoid any long-term damage.<br />
<strong>4. Clean and repair gutters.</strong> Winter
debris can build in gutters, and it's important to remove it before
spring rains. To avoid water running down the side of your home, check
for places where the gutters may have pulled away from the house. "Termites
and other pests, which become most active during this time of year, are
attracted to moisture," Sitchinava says. "Standing water can create
mold issues and cracks in driveways and paths create tripping hazards."<br />
<strong>5. Clean siding.</strong> Similar
to your entry or mudroom, salt and mud can build up on the exterior of
your home during the winter. Depending on the type of siding, you can
use a hose or pressure washer to clean your siding.<br />
<strong>6. Update paths and your driveway.</strong> Often
driveways and paths crack during the winter, especially in regions that
experience freezing conditions. During landscaping projects, more than
half of homeowners update their paths (51%) and 17% update their
driveways, according to the 2016 Houzz Landscaping Trends study.<br />
"Often,
it's not an option to resolve these issues during the winter because
it's too cold to have workers on site and there may still be snow on the
ground in colder climates. So, it's important to address them ASAP in
the spring."<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-20193313251495648732016-03-10T09:30:00.000-08:002016-03-10T09:30:06.223-08:00Kitchen remodel: Tips to improve your ROI<div class="article-title">
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Kitchen remodel: Tips to improve your ROI</h1>
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By <strong>Steve Constable</strong> <time datetime="2016-02-18T20:13:00Z" itemprop="datePublished"></time></div>
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Looking to achieve a better return
on investment from your next home remodel? The design options can be
staggering and a remodel can quickly become overwhelming if you’re
inexperienced with what design options will attract future buyers.<br />
<br />
It’s important to focus on what needs improving, in the space people
use the most. In Chicago, that’s the kitchen. Real estate agents here
agree almost unanimously that the space you cook and entertain in yields
the best ROI at time of sale. This is where all the action is. So, to
make it the best it can possibly be you should focus on updating the
things people value most: the cabinets, counters and appliances.<br />
<br />
It should come as no surprise that these are typically the most
costly items in the kitchen. Luckily though, updating them can return
anywhere from 60 to 100 percent of your initial investment. Granted,
this is if you know what you’re doing, and have the right help.<br />
<br />
Rule number one: Know what the market sale of homes are in the area.
You don’t want to drop $50,000 dollars to improve the home only to find
out you’ve priced yourself right out of the market. In most
neighborhoods a kitchen remodel that falls between $25,000 and $35,000
has a better chance toward a greater ROI. So with a budget in place, you
need to know how to divvy it out for the big-ticket items in your
space.<br />
<br />
<strong>Appliances: </strong>Unfortunately, there’s really only one
aesthetic choice that people like right now: stainless steel. The pros:
it’s clean, sleek, and fits with nearly anything. The cons: it will
generally cost more. So, if your dishwasher, oven, and microwave are
relatively new and fully functioning, you might be better off looking
elsewhere for ROI.<br />
<br />
<strong>Cabinetry: </strong>It’s probable you look at it almost every
time you step into your kitchen. Are you satisfied with the appearance?
What would your dream cabinets look like? The image in your mind is
actually not that unrealistic, so long as the cabinet structure stays in
place. Everything else can be replaced.<br />
<br />
Doors, drawers, hardware—it can all go. This is nearly 75% of what
people see., and resurfacing costs nearly half that of a full gutting
and replacing. Save money and time by installing new door and drawer
fronts, new veneers, and new cabinet hardware.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve removed the above sections and the cabinet is down to its
skeleton, you’ll want to affix some flat panel doors. These offer a
sleek, simple, and most importantly, modern look. Glass panels are also
popular, though more depth usually comes with a little higher cost.
Still, if you want to show off what you’re storing, this is the option
for you.<br />
<br />
<strong>Countertops: </strong>After the cabinets are in prime shape,
you’ll want to turn your attention to the countertops. A good stone can
make or break your kitchen at the point of sale, so you want to get the
best material on the market. None is better than granite. Chicagoans are
enamored by granite at the moment, and why shouldn’t they be? Granite
is a powerhouse — resistant to stains, scrapes, scuffs, spills, and
nearly anything else you want to throw at it. You can beat it up all you
want, it will still outlive the house and you.<br />
<br />
Granite has it in the looks department as well: greens, reds, blues,
grays, and everything in between. Best of all, it works with any
aesthetic preference, whether you’re a traditionalist, modernist, or fan
of something else entirely.<br />
<br />
It’s not necessarily how much money you spend, but how you spend it
that matters. Don’t spend money for things that don’t need fixing, and
keep in mind that most homes will be on the market for three to five
months. We are confident you can cut this time in half, and recoup most —
if not all — of your money by updating the things people look at the
most, in the space people use the most.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>About the Author:</strong> Stephen Joseph Constable is in
the business of home remodeling and owns Chicago Kitchen Remodeling
Inc. He graduated from Indiana University Bloomington in 1999 and grew
up in Oak Park, Illinois. Contact him for more information at <a href="http://kitchenremodelingchicago.com/" target="_blank">kitchenremodelingchicago.com</a></em><br /><br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-24435616523207543222016-03-01T07:00:00.000-08:002016-03-08T23:25:36.555-08:00The Property Brothers' Top 15 Home Remodeling Tips<h1 class="c-page-title">
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<h2 class="c-entry-summary p-subtitle">
Find out what you missed from the Capital Remodel + Garden Show</h2>
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by
<span class="c-byline__item">
<a href="http://dc.curbed.com/authors/michelle-goldchain">Michelle Goldchain</a> </span><span class="c-byline__item"></span></div>
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<img height="300" src="https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KY-fLW3BU6dBAsxaPGmloOe-VuU=/0x0/filters:extract_focal%28%29/cdn3.vox-cdn.com/rhUMjrFVbiQxGjYEJ7TN00ejhgY=/0x0:1000x750/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48962401/shutterstock_207324355.0.0.jpg" width="400" />
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<cite> </cite></span></figure><figure class="e-image"><span class="e-image__meta"><cite>Photo via Shutterstock/Naphat_Jorjee</cite>
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This past Saturday, the <a href="http://www.capitalremodelandgarden.com/">Capital Remodel + Garden Show</a>
hosted over 375 companies, more than 4,000 square feet of "dream
gardens," and two frontrunners that stole the show, Jonathan and Drew
Scott. These real estate and home renovation celebrities, known for
their HGTV show, <em>Property Brothers</em>, spoke on everything from when to be bold to where to find home remodeling inspiration.<br />
For those who missed the show or wish to relive it, Curbed listed the top 15 tips and tricks these two brothers discussed below:<br />
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<ol>
<li>The home is the largest investment you'll ever make, so surround
yourself with people who will help you succeed. Get someone who
understands how you work as well.</li>
<li>Dream big. For one moment, forget everything about price. After
listing everything you truly desire for your abode, narrow it down to
the must-haves. These must-haves should be things that will make your
life easier and will up the property value.</li>
<li>Get a couple of contractors to come through and quote everything. Do
your research. Plan ahead. Take your time. Otherwise, you'll likely
blow your budget.</li>
<li>Do not be afraid to be bold, but you need to think of resale value.
Don't do any renovations that may be too specific to your needs or may
go out of style soon.</li>
<li>You don't need to get rid of everything during a renovation. Repurpose when you can. </li>
<li>Do not be in a rush to buy whatever is trendy at the moment. If you
want to buy something, know the pros and cons to that product. </li>
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<img alt="Property Brothers" class="c-dynamic-image lazy-image lazy-loaded" data-cdata="{"asset_id":6122465,"ratio":"*"}" data-cid="site/dynamic_size_image-1457481279_4675_1873" src="https://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CBdDKuP2spLfuDGsMQsGdEKcqtA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale%28%29/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6122465/_IP_6741.0.jpg" />
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<li>Breaking down a wall or two to make more space can be unnecessary. Sometimes, just changing furniture layout is enough.</li>
<li>Do not look at houses until you know what you can afford. </li>
<li>When you make your budget, do not base that budget off of your
current income situation. For example, are you planning a baby? Expect
some changes to that budget.</li>
<li>Once you make your budget, stick to it.</li>
<li>Do not do renovations on credit cards.</li>
<li>When selling your home, take the emotion out of it. Take a step back
and look at your home from the eyes of a homebuyer. You need to resolve
any issues as you only have one chance at a first impression.</li>
<li>Look for inspiration <a href="http://curbed.com/" target="_blank">online</a>.</li>
<li>Value your time. It can be worth paying someone to do a job if they will do it quicker than you and with less stress.</li>
<li>Be careful when you look to the <em>Property Brothers </em>for home remodeling advice. You will never be able to renovate at the same cost as them. Why? They don't charge for their time.</li>
</ol>
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-7349082017267048062016-02-26T09:00:00.000-08:002016-02-26T09:00:14.690-08:00Rehab projects not for everyone <div class="asset-masthead">
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Are you ready to tackle a fixer-upper?<br />
<br />
Buying
a house that needs some TLC can be rewarding, said Matthew Provenzano, a
Sewickley real estate investor who’s bought, rehabbed and sold many
older western Pennsylvania homes in the past 10 years.<br />
<br />
“You have
the ability to buy a house at less than market value and make it your
own,” he said. “Rehabbing a house can be fun, and it’s something you’ll
take pride in for many years.”<br />
However, it’s not for everyone. Here are a few basic questions to ask before you buy an older house that needs work.<br />
<br />
•
Can I see beyond cosmetics? A DIY home might be right for you,
Provenzano said, if you have a basic understanding of mechanicals
(heating, plumbing, electrical systems) and a bit of vision. “For
instance, a home might not be selling because it has a cramped galley
kitchen. If you can envision what it would look like with a wall knocked
out, you might get a great value.”<br />
<br />
• Did I get a home inspection?
An inspection is a good starting point, said Gina Mercurio, a real
estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway in Sewickley. But be aware that
even the most thorough inspection may not show all problems; issues with
the roof, gutters and chimney may develop with time, or it may be too
cold to inspect the air conditioning system. “Exterior conditions are
often overlooked, too,” Mercurio said. “Trees, for instance, can cause
mold and clog gutters, adding to basement moisture.”<br />
<br />
• What will
renovations cost? Most mortgages don’t allow for renovation expenses, so
a DIY-er needs a certain amount of cash in hand, Provenzano said. “I
use a spreadsheet and itemize every item. Before I hire any contractor, I
always get four or five quotes.”<br />
<br />
• Do I have the resources to
handle unexpected issues? It’s the rare rehab project that comes in
under -- or even close to -- budget. “After the demolition and
renovations begin, dreams tend to increase, and buyers want bigger,
better, and more,” Mercurio said. Unforeseen problems and delays -- the
warehouse sent the wrong size windows, for instance -- tend to crop up
once work is underway. A good rule of thumb? Budget 25 percent more than
the quote for each job, said Provenzano, and have patience with what
can seem like an endless process.<br />
<br />
• Do I have enough experience?
You need to know what you can handle, and what’s better left to the
pros. Mercurio said that buyers often make the mistake of thinking they
can complete a DIY project without addressing the underlying problems.
“Oftentimes, buyers talk about how they’ll knock down a wall to open up a
room without considering if the wall is load-bearing,” she said. “Or,
maybe they want to add a master suite on a third floor, with no
knowledge of how the plumbing will be run.”<br />
<br />
• What do similar
homes in the area sell for? You want to be able to get your money out of
the house, even if you’re not planning to sell right away. “People go
in and buy a house and throw an exorbitant amount of money at it because
their friends tell them it will sell for $500,000,” said Provenzano.
“You need to be smart about it and research the area; every dollar you
spend over market value, you won’t get back.”<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-42786298669789022762016-02-25T06:00:00.000-08:002016-02-25T23:17:47.384-08:00How to Tell if Your DIY Project Is a Disaster—and How to Dig Out
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When you first envisioned your
renovation project, it was the stuff of rainbow-colored daydreams. A few
weekends of manual labor, a forcibly fun painting party, and your house
would be totally transformed. A new you!<br />
<br />
Indeed, it was fun for a while. The first weekend you blasted out the walls, ripped up the floors and channeled your inner <strong>Bob Vila</strong>.<br />
<br />
That was 11 weekends ago.<br />
<br />
Since then you’ve taped some stuff off, laid down some plywood and
covered everything with plastic tarp so the settling dust wouldn’t get
into your morning coffee. Is it time to accept you are in over your
head? Maybe. Or maybe not. You might need a good contractor, but you
also might be able to rally and get this done yourself. Here’s how to
tell:<br />
<h2>
1. Are you on the highway to the danger zone?</h2>
Even small <a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/diy-projects-to-avoid/" target="_blank">DIY home projects are risky</a> (safety
first, kids!), but have you tackled something that really could land
you in an ER waiting room? Some projects are better left to the pros.<br />
<br />
“Anything that involves permitted trades like electric, plumbing, or HVAC repair,” says <strong>Sabine H. Schoenberg</strong>, founder of <a href="http://www.primesitesct.com/" target="_blank">PrimeSitesCT</a> and host of <a href="http://www.thisnewhouse.com/" target="_blank">ThisNewHouse</a>. “Trade licenses mean something, and you really do not want to learn on your own house.”<br />
<br />
Look at your project from a safety perspective. If you could do
serious damage to yourself—or your house—you might be better off
quitting while you’re ahead.<br />
<h2>
2. Going through ch-ch-changes?</h2>
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Sometimes, life throws you a curveball.
Sometimes, even a knuckleball! Maybe work has gotten busier. Maybe that
one-day-a-week volunteer project has taken way more effort than you
thought. Maybe your kid joined the varsity Serbo-Croatian debate team.
Sometimes, you find that you just don’t have the time or energy to
finish a DIY project. And when that happens, you may decide that it’s
easier to let it languish than deal with it.<br />
<br />
“It’s OK to admit it to yourself,” Schoenberg says.<br />
<br />
If you’ve been too busy lately to devote any time to your project,
ask yourself how long your preoccupation might last. If you can give
yourself a solid deadline to get back to the project, stick with it. If
you can’t, call for backup.<br />
<h2>
3. Missing a piece of the puzzle?</h2>
Money is often a big factor in why DIY projects go dormant. If you’ve
been waiting weeks (or months) to save up for an expensive piece of
your project, change your approach.<br />
<br />
Check secondhand construction stores such as Habitat for Humanity’s <a href="http://www.habitat.org/restores" target="_blank">ReStore</a>.
You can also hunt for missing pieces in antique stores, flea markets,
and on sites like Craigslist. Secondhand materials can save you a
bundle.<br />
<h2>
4. More gusto than knowledge?</h2>
At some point we’ve all gotten excited about a DIY project and dived
right in, only to realize later that we can’t do everything we thought
we could.<br />
<br />
If you’re stuck on a part of a project (<a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/seven-ways-your-diy-tiling-job-can-go-wrong/" target="_blank">how <em>do</em> you get those tiles to lie evenly,</a> anyway?), you might be able to teach yourself. Search for how-to videos online—including <a href="http://www.realtor.com/videos/the-do-s-and-don-ts-of-tearing-out-carpet/98996c77-3398-4054-914a-988e2d419507?playlist_id=3d3b5eb8-934f-4d0d-b9a8-4e29549b70b1" target="_blank">realtor.com’s library of free video guides</a>.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Know when to call for help—and how to get it</h2>
Of course, learn-at-home videos aren’t foolproof. If you’re still at a
loss simply watching the pros, it might be better to bring them in, in
person—even if it’s only for part of your project.<br />
<br />
“<a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/should-you-diy-or-hire-a-pro/" target="_blank">Finding pros</a> who want to step into a project started by a DIY person is not easy,” Schoenberg says.<br />
But it can be done. Just make sure you’re <a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/what-your-home-contractor-wishes-you-knew/" target="_blank">clear with the contractor</a>. Explain that you need help with this part, but ultimately want to finish the job yourself.<br />
<br />
You’ll save some cash overall, but don’t expect the pro to work for cheap.<br />
<br />
“They know they will likely have to rip out and redo a bunch of installations,” Schoenberg says. “To price that is difficult.”<br />
<br />
But <a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/10-red-flags-hiring-a-contractor/" target="_blank">be careful when you’re looking for a contractor</a>.<br />
<br />
“The only way to gauge things a bit is by multiple bids,” Schoenberg
says. “The right price is usually in the middle. Toss the highest and
the lowest numbers.”<br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Remodeling-Hell-Charles-G-Irion/dp/0984161880/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1355267718&sr=8-1&keywords=Remodeling+Hell">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-70272689871482055032016-02-15T22:32:00.000-08:002016-02-16T22:33:24.589-08:006 DIY Projects You Should Never Do Yourself
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<span class="by">By</span><br /><span class="author vcard"><a class="url fn n" data-omtag="news:article:author:top" href="http://www.realtor.com/author/rosie-amodio/">Rosie Amodio</a></span></div>
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Whether you’re addicted to watching HGTV or “This Old House,” home improvement shows always make everything look <em>so</em> <em>easy</em>.
But before you pick up the drill and sledgehammer, please pause for
this public service announcement. “Those TV shows don’t show about 90%
of what happens to complete a project,” says <strong>Arthur Sadura</strong>, owner of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/T-A-Carpentry-And-Home-Restoration-183025451791683/?fref=ts" target="_blank">T&A Carpentry and Home Renovations</a>.</div>
<div class="p1">
As contractors know all too well, home improvement shows
are more about people than projects; in their pursuit of drama and a
compelling narrative, they bypass a whole lot of details about how
repairs and renovations actually get done.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
So for inspiration, TV or YouTube is a fine start. But
beyond that, a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. Certain jobs
are too dangerous, others too complicated, and some too pricey as the
equipment will cost as much as hiring a contractor.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
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“If you don’t know/own 90% of the tools and accessories you need for a project, then pro it,” recommends <a href="http://myfixituplife.com/DIY/" target="_blank">MyFixItUPLife</a>‘s <strong>Mark Clement</strong>.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
To help you avoid a ton of headaches or worse, here are six DIY projects to avoid like a misfiring nail gun.</div>
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<h2 class="p1">
<span class="s1">Molding</span></h2>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">How many inspiring episodes have you seen
where a quick addition of crown molding classes up a room? But heed
a word of caution here: “No walls in a house are perfectly straight, not
even in new houses,” says Sadura.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> And no amount of caulk will smooth over these imperfections, either.</span></span><span class="s1"> In fact, Sadura says experts who do molding use various techniques such as <a href="http://www.familyhandyman.com/tools/how-to-scribe-for-a-perfect-fit/view-all" target="_blank">scribing</a>,
which is painstakingly shaping your material with tools so it fits
flush, to ensure your moldings are aligned and stay that way. All in
all, it’s not for the amateur DIYer. </span></div>
<h2 class="p1">
<span class="s1">Floor refinishing</span></h2>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Renting equipment to refinish your
hardwood floors sounds reasonable enough at first glance—after all,
you’re just sanding off the top layer of wood. How hard can it be? Yet </span>Sadura, a carpenter by trade, won’t even sand his <em>own</em> floors. Why? Because sanding machines require what he calls, “the right touch” by someone who does this day in and day out.</div>
<div class="p1">
“No matter how many times you watch the video, you won’t
get the feel for the machine unless you do it a bunch.” Sanding one spot
a few seconds too long could result in drum marks on the floor that
will be extremely difficult to cover up. And you thought you were saving
money…</div>
<h2 class="p1">
<span class="s1">Electrical work</span></h2>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">My spouse is actually quite handy. After
watching electricians install dimmer switches in our old apartment, he
was able to do it in subsequent homes—but it turns out he was lucky he
didn’t blow up the place or electrocute himself. </span><span class="s1">Sadura urges homeowners to</span><span class="s1"> steer clear of all electric except changing a light bulb.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">“You shouldn’t fool around with electric,” says Sadura. </span>If
you do want to DIY a dimmer switch, “YouTube is a good source of
electrical tutorials,” he admits. “But a good rule of thumb is if your
wires look different from what you are watching, abandon the project to
avoid having to guess.”</div>
<div class="p1">
With more than <a href="http://www.goudieelectric.com/blog/dangers-of-DIY-electrical-wiring.php" target="_blank">400 deaths per year</a> resulting from faulty electricity, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation, this isn’t worth the risk.</div>
<h2 class="p1">
<span class="s1">Tiling</span></h2>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">This one is <em>not</em> an absolute don’t, but a great-looking tile job </span><span class="s1">does require a lot more planning than just slapping squares on the floor or wall, then admiring your work. </span><span class="s1">Even if you</span> lay
out the tile, measure and measure again, you will need to cut edges and
around things such as faucets—and prepare to scale a steep learning
curve cutting tile. Glass mosaic tiles are among the toughest to cut.
You’re probably thinking, I’ll get big tiles so there are fewer to
install. Not so fast: Large format tiles are even harder to cut than
tiny glass mosaic ones, according to Sadura, and there’s lots of waste.
Which is why it pays to save yourself the trouble and hire a
professional already.</div>
<h2 class="p1">
<span class="s1">Roofing</span></h2>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Both Clement and Sadura agree: Steer clear of the roof. Did you get that?</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">“It’s not that roofing is too hard,” explains Clement. “Often it’s just a matter of scale.” And something else: <em>danger</em>.
In fact, Sadura goes further, recommending that regular folk avoid any
exterior projects that involve scaffolding “for obvious reasons.”</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">According to the National Safety Council, more than <a href="http://www.washingtonsblog.com/2013/06/youre-more-likely-to-be-killed-by-a-toddler-than-a-terrorist.html" target="_blank">6,000 Americans die each year from falls</a>, mostly from roofs or ladders while cleaning gutters or fixing roofing. </span></div>
<h2 class="p1">
<span class="s1">‘Permit needed’ work</span></h2>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">If you don’t really understand how to get the permit—or if or why you need one in the first place—avoid the project. <span style="color: #333333; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;">You
need to fully understand what’s entailed in a DIY that requires getting
a permit in the first place. Many DIYers skip permits altogether, but
they risk being shut down if spotted by an inspector or if a neighbor
seeking revenge narcs on them.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For more information about Remodeling Hell, <a href="http://www.remodelinghellthebook.com/">CLICK HERE</a></span></span></div>
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-42199774255202320182016-02-11T10:30:00.000-08:002016-02-16T22:28:35.832-08:003 DIY decor projects anyone can do on a budget<h1>
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<h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Being strapped for cash shouldn't put a stop to your dreams
of giving your home a more stylish look. We've rounded up 3 easy DIY
projects that are super chic, but won't cost a fortune to do. Why not
try one (or more of them) this weekend?</span></h2>
PROJECT 1: CREATE A POLKA-DOT FEATURE WALL<br />
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<img alt="HW2604DIY2.jpg" id="_ff373b7e-14c9-497a-8f43-84dd5ddd8eb6" src="http://www.timeslive.co.za/incoming/2015/04/23/hw2604diy2.jpg/BINARY/HW2604DIY2.jpg" width="300" /><br />
<br />
For
an easy and fun take on an accent wall, why not use cost-savvy vinyl
stickers? Beyond polka-dots you can source all sorts of wonderful
patterns from online shops including clouds, anchors and even reindeers.
<a href="http://www.timeslive.co.za/sundaytimes/decor/2015/04/26/chic-diy-polka-dot-feature-wall">Try this easy DIY project</a>.<br />
<br />
<strong>PROJECT 2: PAINT AN OLD BOOKSHELF NEW</strong><br />
<img alt="HW0706_DIY1.jpg" id="_1e7ae816-e347-4bd3-b125-1de764f93e2f" src="http://www.timeslive.co.za/incoming/2015/06/04/hw0706_diy1.jpg/BINARY/HW0706_DIY1.jpg" width="350" /><br />
<br />
Don't
settle for a drab-looking bookshelf. A geometric pattern and lick of
paint are all you need to give that tired piece of furniture a trendy
update. <a href="http://www.timeslive.co.za/sundaytimes/decor/2015/06/07/Chic-DIY-Paint-an-old-bookshelf-new">Try this easy DIY project</a>.<br />
<br />
<strong>PROJECT 3: ADD A DREAMY CANOPY TO YOUR BED</strong><br />
<img alt="HW1406_DIY2.jpg" id="_a64a2d79-225a-4481-89fe-1fcbdb7fb51d" src="http://www.timeslive.co.za/incoming/2015/06/11/hw1406_diy2.jpg/BINARY/HW1406_DIY2.jpg" width="299" /> <br />
There's
no need to invest in a four-poster; create a similarly romantic and
dreamy feel by adding a canopy to your existing bed. All you'll need is
some hooks, dowel sticks and a few metres of a breezy fabric. <a href="http://www.timeslive.co.za/sundaytimes/decor/2015/06/14/Chic-DIY-Add-a-dreamy-canopy-to-your-bed">Try this easy DIY project</a>.<br />
<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-45542931318044957902016-02-08T07:00:00.000-08:002016-02-16T22:25:16.122-08:00The positives of remodelling, renovating our homes<div class="article-header">
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<span class="author">Bob Weinstein | Living Better</span> <br /><span class="publication-timestamp"></span><div class="article-fivestar">
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Reflecting on my prior columns about remodelling and renovating
our homes, I tended to focus more on the negatives rather than the
positive side of a remodelling project. The reason for concentrating on
unforeseen problems, hidden costs and surprises was to open homeowners’
minds so that they approach remodelling projects prepared for all
eventualities, especially expensive surprises that could turn a
relatively simple project into an overwhelming and expensive nightmare.<br />
<br />
Over the past decade, the DIY market has catapulted into a
multi-billion dollar niche industry. What better evidence than the
proliferation of DIY magazines, newsletters, and especially DIY websites
and network and cable television shows? A wealth of information is
available on virtually any home project. For the most part, the
information is excellent and comprehensive, especially if it’s coming
from knowledgeable and articulate professionals. By the same token, some
of the information is too simplistic, because it stresses project
positives over negatives, when both ought to be given equal space and
importance. While I don’t always hit my mark, my goal is to give readers
the whole story — the truth — so they approach all projects, simple or
complex, with open minds prepared for all eventualities.<br />
<br />
Looking back, I failed to spotlight the positives, which are the
reasons why we undergo the expense and headache of a remodelling or
renovation project, and the accompanying upheaval, which turn our lives
topsy-turvy. Temporary chaos is disconcerting and stressful, and we
can’t wait till we return order and structure to our nests, and our
daily routines.<br />
<br />
That said, here are some positives to consider if contemplating a remodelling or renovation project:<br />
Increase value of home. Although disconcerting and disruptive, most
remodelling projects increase the value of our homes. Realtors
throughout North America say that updating and remodelling bathrooms and
kitchens can significantly increase the value of our homes, for
example.<br />
<br />
Maintain structural integrity. Our homes are no different than all
the inanimate objects in our lives, such as our cars, trucks and the
myriad electronics and technological gadgets, from cell phones and video
games to televisions and smart homes that make our lives easier and
more efficient. Over time, pipes break, wood rots, paint fades and
electrical wiring and plumbing deteriorate. Whether we do the work
ourselves or hire people to do it for us, there is no escaping
obligatory home-maintenance projects. Fail to maintain our homes, and
they will go to seed.<br />
<br />
Opportunity to clean house and eliminate clutter. Remodelling
projects are the ideal time to delcutter our homes. Many people, myself
included, have a hard time getting rid of stuff they no longer use.
During the upheaval of a remodelling project is when homeowners see the
futility of hanging onto things that serve no purpose. It’s an
opportunity to either give stuff away to people who could use it or
throw it away if it serves no purpose or is broken.<br />
<br />
Change improves our lives. Scholars and social scientists have
written countless books and articles about our ambivalence toward change
— why we fear it and why it’s so vital for improving our lives. People
fear change because they’ve become so comfortable in their routines,
they reason that they must be the best way to do things. But that’s only
an excuse, a flawed justification for maintaining the status quo. To
improve and better our lives, we must change the way we do things. To
achieve that end, we must embrace the unknown and take chances. This
applies not only to our homes, but to all aspects of our lives — our
feelings, attitudes, jobs and friends. Once we embrace change and see
the benefits, a door opens in our minds. We become more flexible and
open-minded, and welcome the excitement, fun and process of discovery,
all of which make change so vital for learning and growth.<br />
<br />
<strong class="character" name="bold">Bob
Weinstein is editor-in-chief of Edmonton-based the Global Times, a news
and commentary website, author of SO WHAT IF I’M 65 and an obsessive
do-it-yourselfer.</strong><br />
<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-81079237321837749572015-11-10T22:56:00.000-08:002016-01-18T22:59:37.656-08:00An Expert’s Advice on Remodeling<br />
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<a href="http://vegasseven.com/files/2015/10/jill_abelman_courtesy_inside_style_WEB.jpg"><img alt="Courteys of Inside Style" class=" wp-image-108894 " src="http://vegasseven.com/files/2015/10/jill_abelman_courtesy_inside_style_WEB.jpg" height="300" width="300" /></a><br />
<div class="wp-caption-text">
<i>Courteys of Inside Style</i></div>
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<b>Jill Abelman</b>, interior designer and owner of <a href="http://insidestylehome.com/">Inside Style Home</a>, shares tips on how to get a remodel started without breaking the bank and where to best invest hard-earned time and money.<br />
<h3>
<b>If your budget is limited, what are the smartest rooms to remodel first? </b></h3>
The powder room is a great place to start, as everyone who visits
your home will see it. Give it a facelift with updated lighting fixtures
and hardware, such as new door and drawer handles, towel racks and
faucets. In the living room, add new accent pillows, area rugs and a
fresh coat of paint.<br />
<h3>
<b>What are some projects that can be done without the assistance of a professional? </b></h3>
Painting is the least expensive way to make the biggest impact—not
only on the walls, but, perhaps, on a piece of furniture. I just painted
a favorite nightstand in my guest room bright orange and I love it.<br />
<h3>
<b>With a substantial budget, what should homeowners splurge on? </b></h3>
Flooring is always a game changer and an investment that makes a huge
difference. Our clients request we replace carpeting with wood or tile.<br />
<a href="http://vegasseven.com/files/2015/10/livingroom.jpeg"><img alt="livingroom" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-109057" src="http://vegasseven.com/files/2015/10/livingroom-300x211.jpeg" height="211" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
If
you want to concentrate on the kitchen, obviously new cabinets,
appliances and countertops will make the most impact. The kitchen is the
heart of the home and most often updated first. After all, this is the
space where we spend the most time. If this is too much for your budget,
simply change the stain color of the cabinets; add a backsplash
material and new handles. There are so many great backsplash options to
choose from that will completely change the look. This remedy should
only take a week or so in labor time once materials arrive.<br />
<h3>
<b>What would people be most surprised to hear about the ROI on some popular remodeling projects? </b></h3>
Wallpaper is an excellent way to change a space in a big way for a
minor investment. We often wallpaper just the bed wall in a bedroom and
use accent paint colors to pull it all together. We concentrate on
selecting interesting textures instead of prints so that the wallpaper
is classic and timeless. New lighting fixtures throughout the home can
make a big difference, and there are tons of high-impact, low-cost
options.<br />
</section><br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-91051710678722988502015-10-21T07:00:00.000-07:002016-01-18T21:18:06.389-08:00Renovation Solutions: 4 tips to successfully navigate the first phase of remodeling<div class="content-header">
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<div class="content-image" id="content_image" itemid="http://img.deseretnews.com/images/article/midres/1296163/1296163.jpg" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject" style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="http://img.deseretnews.com/images/article/midres/1296163/1296163.jpg"><img alt="" class="content-image" height="132" itemprop="url" src="http://img.deseretnews.com/images/article/contentimage/1296163/1296163.jpg" style="height: 308px; width: 464px;" width="200" /></a></div>
Before: When you are
planning a remodel, look at your house as if you were a prospective
buyer. Try to see the pros and cons of your house as if you were going
to buy your house again today. Trina Knudsen<div class="info" style="margin-left: 484px; text-align: left;">
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<div class="author">
<a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/author/21638/Ann-Robinson--Annie-V-Schwemmer.html">Ann Robinson & Annie V. Schwemmer</a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="content-sidebar">
<div class="text-label">
Summary
</div>
<div class="text-summary">
Determining what actually needs to be done takes some effort and
analysis. You need to determine what is working about your house and
what isn’t, as well as what you like and what you don’t — remodeling
should impact your life for the be<br />
<br />
</div>
</div>
Most people spend years dreaming before they actually
make a move to start the process of remodeling their home. However, all
that wishing and hoping will actually help in the first phase of
remodeling, which is called programming. This is where you determine
what needs to be done to give you the house of your dreams — or at least
a home that functions well for your situation and adds a little peace
and happiness to your life every day.<br />
<br />
In this phase, we can begin with the dream but need
to move beyond that to create goals based in reality. Reality consists
of the constraints of an actual budget, your current and future family
circumstances, and any immediate needs that may be pertinent.<br />
<br />
Determining what actually needs to be done takes some
effort and analysis. You need to determine what is working about your
house and what isn’t, as well as what you like and what you don’t.<br />
Remember, remodeling should impact your <span class="italic-text">life</span>
for the better, not just your house. If you spend $100,000 on a new
addition and you still hate the rest of your house, then what was the
point? You may have been able to better use that money to remodel a
different area in a different way to make your whole house more useable
and more functional on a daily basis.<br />
<br />
Here are three tips to successfully execute the programming phase.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">See your house with different eyes</span><br />
<br />
Really looking at your house objectively and
analyzing how it functions for your family is one of the hardest parts
of programming. Usually one of two things happens. Sometimes a homeowner
misses the problems in the house because they are so used to living
with them. They don’t see how bad it is because, frankly, they simply
don’t notice the issues anymore. They don’t see the problems that an
outsider would identify.<br />
<br />
The other option is when the homeowner is so sick of
the house that they can no longer see the good qualities and potential
the home possesses. They are fed up with everything! They just want to
tear the whole thing down and start over when that may not be necessary.
It is important to see your house for what it is and how it truly works
for you.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">Be honest</span><br />
<br />
It is important to be honest. We often make excuses
for the shortcomings of our houses. We factor in vague future plans and
good intentions so we excuse them. However, to accurately determine what
needs to be done, you need to be honest with yourself about your house.<br />
<br />
Try this experiment. Imagine you are a visitor
pulling up to your house. What do you see? What do you notice? Don’t let
yourself make excuses for yourself. Just see it. Notice what needs to
be fixed or changed. Notice what is outdated or lacking. Give yourself a
tour of the house. Honestly walk through as if you were a prospective
buyer. Would it fit your family’s needs? What is it lacking? What are
the deal breakers that would stop you from making an offer on your own
house if you could buy it again today? Looking at your house in this way
will help you know what you need and what needs to be done in a
remodel.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">Dream a little</span><br />
<br />
In the programming phase you can let yourself dream a
little. Determine what needs to be done, but also consider what you
want. Now is the time to put down your wishes for your house. If
something doesn’t get out on the table, it will never make it into the
plan at all.<br />
<br />
When it comes to the design, an architect should
present several alternative plans for you to choose from in the
beginning. There is nothing wrong with making one of those plans be the
dream of all dream plans. While the reality of a budget usually stifles
the dream to some extent, a good architect has a way of adapting the
dream to a reality with an affordable price tag.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">Crunch some numbers</span><br />
<br />
First, determine the current value of your home. If
you were to put it on the market today as is, what could you expect it
to sell for? A conversation with a realtor familiar with your area will
at least give you a price range to plug into your financial equation.<br />
<br />
Second, determine what amount of money you are
willing to invest in your home. This may not be the same number as the
equity you are estimating from your real estate research. You may want
to hold on to some of that for other financial goals (college funds,
travel, etc.), or you may decide to spend more if that meets your
personal and family needs. Figure out what you want to spend on your
remodeling project.<br />
<br />
Third, if you are going to finance all or part of the
project, find out what your borrowing power is. Talk to a banker or
mortgage company to see what you can realistically count on for your
remodeling project.<br />
<br />
Dreaming alone will not get anything done, but bring
your dreams along with an honest assessment of your home and financial
information pertinent to your circumstances to a residential architect
and this may be the year you change your home and your life.<br />
<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-53696352685594014822015-09-23T21:04:00.000-07:002016-01-18T21:05:27.708-08:00Savvy Home Seller Tips <br /><div class="article-body">
<div class="article-body-item">
<i>Most sellers instinctively believe the fixing up a
home before is always the way to go, but experts say it all depends on
the home, the seller and the preferred time of sale. Motivated sellers
may want to shell out big bucks even if the expense isn’t returned in an
effort to save on taxes and mortgage payments. On the other hand, if
there’s no rush a seller may want to take time to make DIY touchups at
low cost. In any event, pros note that large contract jobs rarely make
back what they cost at the time of sale. For more on this continue
reading the following article from <a href="http://www.thestreet.com/" target="_blank">TheStreet</a>. </i><br />
<br />
When lenders are stingy and buyers picky, a seller wants to make sure
the home is appealing. So obviously you want to fix all flaws before
going to market, right?<br />
<br />
Maybe, but not necessarily. The calculation is tricky. Not only does
it involve the repairs' actual cost, but the buyers' sometimes
incorrect perceptions about what those improvements are worth.<br />
Many <a href="http://www.bankingmyway.com/real-estate/remodel-home-shaky-market" target="_blank">studies show</a>
that home improvements by contractors typically don't add as much
resale value as they cost, supporting the case for tidying and painting
before a sale, but not remodeling the kitchen -- unless you have the
skill to do it cheaply yourself. But these findings don't necessarily
apply in an individual case. If you can get a particularly good deal on
an improvement, it may well pay to hire a pro to do it.<br />
<br />
A seller who must have a quick sale might be wise to lay out serious
money to put the home in tip-top condition. Even if the improvements
won't pay for themselves completely in a higher sales price, that gap
could be closed by saving months of payments on the mortgage, taxes,
insurance and maintenance.<br />
<br />
When time is not that critical, the seller should do a careful
cost/benefit analysis. Hire an appraiser to find out how much value the
improvements would add and get a second opinion from a real estate
agent who works full time, has been in the business a long time and
knows the neighborhood well.<br />
Keep in mind that agents, because they earn a percentage of the
sales price, may push for improvements that raise the price even if the
improvements' cost reduces the seller's profit. Also, agents generally
prefer quick sales, which allow them to move on to the next property.<br />
<br />
A fix-up also makes sense when there are large variations in the
cost of the job to be done and the buyer is likely to over-estimate the
cost, says Jack M. Guttentag, emeritus professor of finance at the
Wharton School.<br />
<br />
"In the case of a septic system, for example, the cost depends on
the condition of the soil, and if the seller knows that the condition
is favorable and the cost low, it makes sense to fix it before sale," he
says on his website, <i>The Mortgage Professor</i>.<br />
<br />
The fix-up is also advisable when buyers are unlikely to have the
cash to pay for the work after buying the home, he says. Many buyers are
in this situation today, because lenders are demanding <a href="http://www.bankingmyway.com/real-estate/mortgages/pros-and-cons-a-small-down-payment" target="_blank">large down payments</a>
and buyers are not getting top dollar when they sell their previous
homes. If the seller does the improvement and raises the price
accordingly, the buyer, in effect, will finance the improvement at
today's low mortgage rate rather than lay out a lot of cash after the
purchase, Guttentag says.<br />
<br />
"If a buyer with limited cash had to make the improvements after
purchase, the financing costs would be substantially higher," he adds.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, he says, it's advisable to leave the improvement undone
so the buyer can choose how to do it, as in a deck replacement. That
could even be true of a kitchen or bath remodeling.<br />
When flaws are an issue, hiring an appraiser can be money well
spent, Guttentag says. At a minimum, the appraiser's report will give
you ammunition to counter points made by the buyer's appraiser.<br />
<i>This article was republished with permission from </i><a href="http://www.thestreet.com/story/12037180/1/when-to-fix-up-your-home-before-a-sale.html" target="_blank"><i>TheStreet</i></a><i>.</i><br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-81297765841743661842015-08-18T21:00:00.000-07:002016-01-18T21:01:53.084-08:00Cool Spaces: 5 tips to weigh the best resale home improvements<h1>
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The cost of remodeling</h3>
Check out the Free Press’ graphic presentation online at <a alt="" href="http://on.freep.com/remodel" target="_blank" title="">on.freep.com/remodel</a>
showing the cost of various remodeling projects in metro Detroit and
the percentage payback owners can expect in added value to their homes.<br />
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Homeowners are opening their wallets. A rebound in the housing
market has made them more willing to invest in renovations that could
boost the value of their homes even more in a rising market.<br />
Spending
on home remodeling has picked up over the past 18 months and is
expected to rise nearly 20% to $151 billion by the fourth quarter,
according to a report by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard
University.<br />
Those looking to sell should know that not all home improvement projects will boost the value of a home.<br />
Here are five tips before investing in an improvement project: :<br />
<h3>
Don't overimprove</h3>
Some home improvements can help lift a home’s resale value,
especially updates to features like cabinets and appliances that are
dated. The key is to select finishes and appliances that a buyer might
find in similarly priced homes in the area.<br />
Consider a homeowner
in a neighborhood with modest homes who splurges on pricey countertop
finishes like quartz or marble. They’re not likely to recoup the cost
when appraisers look at recent sales of comparable homes.<br />
This applies to everything from lighting to flooring and bathroom fixtures.<br />
<h3>
Keep original footprint</h3>
A room addition that expands the size of a home beyond its original
floor plan is least likely to produce a return on investment, says
Richard Borges, president of the Appraisal Institute, a professional
association of real estate appraisers.<br />
Projects that require
tearing down an exterior wall often involve moving doors, windows and
other features, which can drive the costs higher.<br />
The more expensive the project, the harder it can be to recover one’s costs.<br />
Also,
making major changes to the original structure runs other risks. “When
you become the oddball, the only home in the neighborhood with four
bedrooms, probably the fourth bedroom is not going to be that
desirable,” says Borges.<br />
<h3>
Consider cost-to-value</h3>
Estimate how much of what you spend will be recovered at resale.<br />
For
example, if you spend a $1,000 on siding, and it only adds $500 to the
resale value of your home, that upgrade is giving you a 50% return on
your investment.<br />
■
<b>Graphic:</b>
<a alt="" href="http://www.freep.com/article/20130804/BUSINESS04/130803006/Graphic-Remodeling-what-s-worth-" target="_blank" title="">Remodeling, what's it worth?</a><br />
When
home prices are rising fast enough, like during the last housing boom,
it’s easier to recover costs spent on home improvements, regardless of
the upgrade. The alternative scenario also holds true.<br />
<h3>
Prioritize repairs and curb appeal</h3>
If you need to upgrade your roof or fix window seals, do so. Those
fixes may not be aesthetic upgrades, but often make a home easier to
sell.<br />
Replacing your front door might cost you $1,500, but it’s
the type of upgrade that can make a home attractive to buyers, says Sal
Alfano, editorial director of Remodeling magazine.<br />
The magazine
says replacing the front entry with a 20-gauge steel door is the upgrade
from which homeowners can expect to recoup the most money among
renovations that cost less than $5,000. The magazine estimates a
recovery of 85.6 percent of the cost.<br />
<h3>
Consult an expert</h3>
Consult with a real estate agent or an appraiser who knows your market.<br />
They
should be able to gauge how the upgrade could affect the sales price of
your home. That can help you determine how much of your investment
you’re likely to recoup.<br />
A consultation could cost between $500 and $1,000.<br />
Real estate agents might be willing to offer their assessment for free.<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-88745976383634824322015-07-01T10:30:00.000-07:002015-07-06T22:46:22.116-07:00Renovation Solutions: Common oversights when remodeling<div class="info">
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By Ann Robinson & Annie V. Schwemmer</div>
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After: Dedicating
part of the budget to landscaping will enhance the final project. That
may include both hardscape (like patios, walks, etc.) and softscape
(plants).
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We find it a healthy exercise to talk about mistakes as a way to
inform homeowners and to help them dodge a bullet or two. Here are a few
more potential areas for problems during a renovation project and some
advice on how to avoid them.<div class="text-summary">
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<span class="italic-text">Editor's note: This is the third in a series about avoiding common remodeling mistakes. The first is "Avoiding common home remodeling mistakes" and the second is "5 tips to avoiding costly remodeling mistakes." Both are on deseretnews.com in the Family section. Portions of this column were previously published.</span><br />
<br />
This month, we are discussing common home remodeling
mistakes. We find it a healthy exercise to talk about mistakes as a way
to inform homeowners and to help them dodge a bullet or two. Here are a
few more potential areas for problems during a renovation project and
some advice on how to avoid them.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">Consider the landscaping</span>.<br />
<br />
One of the most common oversights when remodeling is
not having a budget for repairing or replacing landscaping once the
project is complete.<br />
<br />
<br />
It is fairly obvious that projects involving
additions will impact your yard, but even interior-only projects can
affect the exterior of a home. The driveway and possibly part of the
yard will be used to stage supplies and equipment, and the main access
to the project will probably not be the front door, so workers and
equipment may traipse around the house and through the yard.<br />
<br />
Homeowners usually don’t think about replacing or
repairing the landscaping until they see how torn up the yard may be by
the end of the project.<br />
<br />
The second reason to focus on landscaping is that it
goes out of style just as other design elements do. You don’t do
yourself any favors by leaving the giant 30-year-old, spider-infested
pfitzers in front of your newly updated home, even if they do survive
the contractors.<br />
<br />
Landscaping always pulls the short stick because by
the time the homeowners have spent their last dime on remodeling the
home, they don’t have the capital to create a new and beautiful yard to
match the new and improved structure. They may not even have the funds
to get the yard back to where it was before the remodel. The best time
to refurbish the landscaping is right after a remodeling project, when
the yard is at least partially demolished. It is smart to put aside some
money for landscaping as part of the project, so you don’t have to pay
to tear up the yard again next year.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">Avoid inferior materials.</span><br />
<br />
Last week we mentioned that remodeling is something you usually do only once or twice in a lifetime.
This next piece of advice goes specifically to the brave do-it-yourself
remodeler, but it also applies to anyone trying to save money on their
remodel. We understand sticking to a budget.<br />
<br />
Honestly, we are all about
stretching the dollar and getting the most bang for your buck. However,
there comes a point when penny-pinching goes too far.<br />
<br />
Don’t sacrifice quality on basic, long-term materials
and fixtures. The bottom line is you get what you pay for. If you can’t
afford to do it right, you should probably wait until you can. A better
way to lower the cost of the whole project without sacrificing quality
is by shaving off square footage with smart design. Remember, a project
is priced out by a cost per square foot. With the right design, you can
actually save money on gross square footage, which can then be put
toward quality materials.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">Think about everyday design.</span><br />
<br />
Remodeling is not cheap, so it doesn’t make sense to
undertake a remodel that doesn’t benefit your everyday life. For
example: the bonus room.<br />
<br />
We feel bad when we see someone spend money on a
bonus room that simply adds square footage to the house. Most days, it
just sits there unused with no purpose other than being available if the
family should need it occasionally. When a client comes to us and says
they are thinking of adding a bonus room, we say, “Why do you want a
bonus room? What activities or function will it serve?” Often it is a
question that they cannot answer. Even with an extra room, families will
have the same problems with the rest of their house that they have
always had. This kind of remodel won’t solve anything.<br />
<br />
A good remodel that reconfigures a home’s existing
space or possibly adds a small addition can do wonders for a family’s
everyday life if it addresses a critical need or situation. When you are
thinking about a remodel or an addition, think about how the space you
are adding will impact your life every day. Realtors and bankers love
square footage above all else; architects don’t. If you don’t have a
good reason for creating additional space, it is our opinion that you
are wasting your money.<br />
<span class="bold-text">Choose to go green.</span><br />
<br />
When you are cutting into the walls, floors or roof
of your home, this is the time to beef up the insulation to make your
home as energy-efficient as possible. Not choosing to go with green
appliances, windows, equipment and materials is a mistake on several
different levels. You will have to consider pay-back schedules and
returns on investment as you make vital decisions. This is the same idea
as not updating the electrical or plumbing when the wires or pipes are
exposed.<br />
<br />
If you open up the wall and see a problem, fix it. Sustainable designs and green options are a new classic
worth investing in. Consider tankless water heaters and ductless HVAC
systems.<br />
<br />
The more-efficient systems will cost more money up front, but
it will be worth it in the long run. It is smart to invest in the
efficiency of your home.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">Have a contingency fund</span>.<br />
<br />
You will have issues with your project if you design
to use every last penny of your budget. It is not really that difficult
to understand that every remodeling project has its own surprises.
Because this is residential construction, the issues are not usually
huge, but they almost always require extra money to solve. While a few
hundred or even thousand dollars is not a lot in the big picture of
things, it can seem insurmountable when thrown at you during the stress
of a remodeling project. On the other hand, if you know you have that
contingency fund, the mountain becomes a much more manageable molehill.
We recommend that you set aside 5 to 10 percent of the total budget for
your contingency fund.<br />
<br />
We hope this discussion is helpful and not
discouraging. Overall, we can’t stress enough the importance of planning
ahead! Plan, plan, plan. The more details you figure out before
construction begins, the better off you will be and the fewer mistakes
you will make.<br />
<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-84845306959478023812015-06-22T12:00:00.000-07:002015-07-06T22:40:04.351-07:003 proven tips to stage your home to sell<h1 class="detail__headline">
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Staging a home for sale can pay off big for Realtors and homeowners.</div>
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On average, redecorating and remodeling a home can bring three times the return on investment at closing, according to Greg Williams, a new owner of Showhomes Houston.</div>
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“(Staging) helps homes sell faster and for more money,” Williams said.</div>
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Williams and his partner Steven Cook
are the new owners of the local franchise of Showhomes, a Nashville,
Tennessee-based company that provides home staging and managing services
to help sell residential real estate.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
Williams, an interior designer, and Cook, a
senior vice president with Space City Credit Union, have more than five
years of experience with Showhomes, managing and staging luxury homes
for high-end Realtors and clients.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
Staging is a science more than an art, and has become an integral part of selling homes, Williams said. Unlike interior design, staging is done not to suit the current homeowners’ tastes, but to make the home appealing to a wide range of prospective buyers.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
“Our goal is to bring out the positive
features of the property and improve its show quality,” Williams said.
“We want to show the buyer the potential that the home has for them.
Everything we do is geared toward getting more money at closing.”</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="truncated-content fade in">
<div class="content__segment">
<strong>Here are five tips to stage a home to sell</strong>, according to Williams.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
<strong>1. Update carpets, wall paint and countertops.</strong></div>
<div class="content__segment">
Remodeling is costly, but replacing the
carpets, putting a fresh coat of paint and upgrading the countertops can
really make a difference in selling a home.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
Williams recommends carpets that are
low-profile, sleek and don’t take over the space; light, neutral paint
colors; and light-colored quartzite or Carerra marble countertops that
are more durable and dense than dark granite countertops.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
“Buyers have certain expectations,” Williams said. “They don’t want fixer-uppers anymore. They want immediate gratification.”</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
<strong>2. Declutter. Less is more.</strong></div>
<div class="content__segment">
Williams recommends using a few focal point
pieces — larger-scale art and furniture — to bring buyers’ eyes to the
space, but not detract from it.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
In particular, buyers pay close attention to the kitchen and master suite, which are often cluttered with knick knacks.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
Williams recommends decluttering the kitchen
and creating a spa-like atmosphere in the master bedroom and bathroom.
That means: removing unused appliances from kitchen countertops, getting
rid of decorative pillows from the bed and putting clean white towels
in the bathroom, he said.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
<strong>3. Homes need a lived-in look.</strong></div>
<div class="content__segment">
Vacant homes often take longer to sell because buyers think the homeowner is desperate to sell.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
Getting a so-called “home manager” to live
on the property to give it a lived-in look can help reduce the chance of
getting low-ball offers, Williams said. Even when staging homes, the
changes should feel organic, he added.</div>
<div class="content__segment">
<br /></div>
<div class="content__segment">
“Homes shouldn’t have that staged look,” Williams said. “They should look like someone lives there.”</div>
</div>
<div class="content__segment">
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-23347339731842352042015-06-15T13:00:00.000-07:002015-07-06T22:28:07.779-07:00Renovation Solutions: 5 tips to avoiding costly remodeling mistakes<div class="content-header">
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By Ann Robinson & Annie V. Schwemmer</div>
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<br />
Some common remodeling mistakes are easy to avoid or fix and others
seriously impact a project’s budget and how much a home remodel
actually costs. This week we will discuss the more costly mistakes to
avoid.<br />
<br />
</div>
</div>
<span class="italic-text">Editor's note: This is the second in a series about avoiding common remodeling mistakes. The first is "Avoiding common home remodeling mistakes" and is on deseretnews.com in the Family section. Also, portions of this column were previously published deseretnews.com.</span><br />
<br />
Last week, we
started a discussion on common remodeling mistakes. This week we will
continue by highlighting some additional common remodeling mistakes that
impact a project’s budget and how much a home remodel actually costs.<br />
<br />
Remodeling represents a substantial investment of
time and energy, so no one wants it to cost more than it has to. Most
people experience a major remodel only once or twice in their lifetime,
so there isn’t much room for trial and error. Here are some of the more
common costly mistakes to try to avoid.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">1. Doing projects out of sequence</span><br />
There is nothing more costly for a remodeling project
than doing the same project twice due to poor planning and improper
project sequencing. Don’t redo the landscaping and add a deck when you
are planning an addition next year. Usually people do projects as they
can afford them — maybe windows this year and new deck next year. There
is nothing wrong with this idea as long as you have a master plan you
are following.<br />
<br />
It is frustrating when clients come to us wanting a
home remodel only to find out they just replaced all their windows.
Windows have a huge impact on the architectural design of a house.
Working around the new windows is going to limit the design potential of
the home. Often clients end up having to pay to remove and re-install
or re-order some of the windows, and some end up having to buy all new
windows again to match the style of their dream home.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">2. Blowing the budget</span><br />
The client who stays within a budget is the client
who plans ahead. The more detailed the project plans are, the more
accurate the bids and the more realistic the budget. Making all the
selections of finishes and equipment prior to commencing construction
will allow you to get the big picture and consider the complete cost of
the project. In addition, we recommend reserving 5 to 10 percent of the
proposed budget as a contingency for the unexpected challenges of a
remodeling project. Architects and engineers do the best they can to
anticipate potential issues, but it is only when you cut into the walls,
floors and ceiling that you know the whole story.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">3. Gutting too soon</span><br />
We cringe when we see someone decide they want to
remodel and start tearing down walls without a plan. First, the planning
stage takes months. It will likely be three to six months from initial
project inception before permits are secured and construction can begin.
If you are overly excited about beginning the project, you may end up
living in a construction zone far longer than you need to or be faced
with rebuilding walls you could have saved when you took a sledgehammer
to your house without a plan.<br />
<br />
<span class="bold-text">4. Overbuilding for the neighborhood</span><br />
Overbuilding occurs when homeowners sink too much
money into a house when either the market or the location (or both)
cannot support the extent of the remodeling project. In an attempt to
recapture their remodeling costs when selling, homeowners then price
themselves out of their market.<br />
<br />
While fewer people these days are remodeling for a
quick resale, you still need to think about how your remodeling choices
will affect the future resale potential of your property.<br />
<br />
It is best to consult a real estate agent in the planning stage of your remodel to ask three questions:<br />
• What realistic value would the Realtor place on your house "as is"?<br />
• What is the price range of homes that are selling in your area?<br />
• In the Realtor's opinion, what home improvements will most improve your home's resale value?<br />
<span class="bold-text">5. Not staying involved in the process</span><br />
<br />
The homeowner is the most integral part of a
remodeling team. It is important to stay involved throughout the
project. If you aren’t living in the house during construction, we
recommend visiting your project almost every day. Contractors’ questions
need to be answered as quickly as possible, and errors can be nipped in
the bud if you are paying attention. Sometimes, interesting design
opportunities are revealed, especially during the framing phase. If you
don’t feel comfortable managing this aspect of the project, keep your
architect involved during the construction phase.<br />
<br />
Good luck and remember, the more you plan and prepare
for your remodel, the more likely you will be to avoid these costly
mistakes.<br />
<br />
<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-30214319713685468552015-05-20T06:00:00.000-07:002015-06-11T00:00:09.199-07:00Tips on what to expect during kitchen remodeling<h1 class="headline entry-title">
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Planning
to remodel your kitchen? Those of us who have been there are happy to
share advice. Most of these tips would apply to any remodeling project.<br />
<br />
Take your time picking a builder, contractor or design-build firm.
Interview more than one, ask many questions (and pay attention to not
just the answers, but to how the answers are given), check references,
listen to your gut. And then when you have a contract, read it line by
line, word by word, and get all of your questions satisfactorily
answered before you sign.<br />
<br />
Expect upcharges, and build them into your budget. Some change orders
will be beyond your or your builder's control (surprises discovered
during demolition, requirements imposed by your municipality's
architectural review board), and others you will initiate as new ideas
come forth or you change your mind. (You will change your mind, most
certainly more than once.)<br />
<br />
Beware: These projects have a way of leading one to the next. As long
as they were having their kitchen remodeled, Carol Moresco-Goniu and
her husband, Richard Goniu, figured they might as well re-do the powder
room, too. And then, the master bathroom suddenly looked ripe for a
redo. Lisa Ziolkowski also replaced the front door and gave the front
hallway, powder room and sun porch a facelift and had the living room
and dining room repainted.<br />
<br />
Try to stay ahead of the game. If you're told you won't have to empty your cabinets for another month, do it in two weeks.<br />
<br />
Plan to spend lots of time online, where choices in everything from
lighting fixtures to furniture and kitchen accessories are endless.<br />
<br />
Pick what you love. Know what the trends are, but don't let them influence you unduly. <br />
"It's important to have an idea of what you're after," said Moresco-Goniu, "but be open to suggestions."<br />
<br />
"You've got to do a little bit of homework," advised Goniu.<br />
<br />
Anticipate problems. You can't get discouraged. Referencing the
problems they had with their cabinets, Goniu said, "Most people would
get angry. I was disappointed, but we made the decision not to push (the
builder) to get it done. We said, 'take your time and do it right.' If
you get upset and angry, you'll have nothing but disappointment."<br />
<br />
"Stay calm," advised Ziolkowski. "Your life is in disarray, but when it's done, it's so worth all the time and headaches."<br />
<h3>
10 decisions to consider before a kitchen remodel</h3>
Choices, choices. For some people, it's a fun opportunity; for
others, a stressful chore. Given the cost of remodeling, whatever you
choose — whether it's appliances, cabinet color, floor style or
countertop — you'll have to live with it for a long time.<br />
<br />
So it's best to have a pretty good idea of what you want (or at least, think you want) before you begin.<br />
Here are 10 core decisions you should think through in advance when planning to remodel your kitchen:<br />
<br />
<b>1. Footprint.</b> Will you work within your kitchen's current
dimensions, or do you want the room to be bigger? In which direction
would you expand, and what are the ramifications for the rest of the
house?<br />
<br />
<b>2. Cabinets (looks).</b> Custom or prefab? Wood species, stain and glaze color, door style — all these decisions and more will need to be made.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Cabinets (configuration).</b> For lower cabinets, you could do
doors and shelves (pullout or stationary), or you could go with deep
drawers. You probably want some of each, but how many and where? Will
you have any pantries? How many and what size? Any pullout cutting
boards? And how do you want to handle those pesky corners?<br />
<br />
<b>4. Countertops.</b> Granite, quartz, laminate, concrete, wood or a
combination. They all have their pros and cons. If going with granite,
you'll need to pick a pattern, then your specific slab(s), as well as
weigh in as to how the slab will be cut for the various portions of
countertop in the room. All of this takes time. Take as much as you
need.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Floor.</b> Hardwood is still popular, but durable luxury vinyl tile, ceramic tile and bamboo are other choices to consider.<br />
<br />
<b>6. Appliances (if buying new).</b> Will you replace all of them,
or only one or two? Will you match the color of existing appliances or
go with what you eventually want them all to be? Do you want one oven or
two? There are too many choices to list here, but keep in mind some of
the newer options like a small beverage fridge and a
microwave-convection oven combination.<br />
<br />
<b>7. Placement of appliances.</b> It can be hard to picture yourself
in a whole new space cooking dinner, but it's worth making the effort.
Moving the stove or fridge over a few inches could make all the
difference.<br />
<br />
<b>8. Lighting.</b> Pay close attention to where the can lights are
placed in the ceiling. We ended up adding one directly above the sink
that wasn't in the original plan and are so glad we did. Also think
through where you want light switches (every doorway is a good start).
Do you want dimmers? What kind of under-cabinet lighting?<br />
<br />
<b>9. Colors.</b> The good news is, wall colors can easily be swapped
out. Not so with tile backsplashes, lighting fixtures or other colorful
features you choose.<br />
<br />
<b>10. Miscellaneous:</b> How hard could it be to pick out cabinet
hardware? They're just knobs and handles, after all. Answer: harder than
you think. Other decisions you'll need to be ready to make include the
type of sink (material, one basin or two, built-in soap dispenser or
not, etc.), type of faucet and color of outlets and switchplates.<br />
<br />
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Charles G. Irionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04713582473631535037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2649914126799637403.post-12257965018417403942015-05-11T06:00:00.000-07:002015-05-13T22:26:06.698-07:006 Eco-Friendly Tips For The Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<center style="margin: 0px auto; width: 493px;">
<br />
<em>Carlisle Wide Plank Floors</em></center>
<em>By: Anne Reagan, Editor-In-Chief of Porch.com</em><br />
Earth
Day celebrates its 45th anniversary this year, and looking back over
the past 45 years and what we know now about climate change,
sustainability, energy efficiency and how our actions impact our planet
is alarming but also empowering. We now understand that what we choose
to purchase or produce, or what we choose to use or waste, can have a
direct impact to the health of our planet as well as the health of our
bodies and surrounding environment.<br />
<br />
Nowhere is this extraordinary
potential seen more than in the decisions we make with our homes, and
particularly with home improvement. Even a small DIY project like
painting a wall gives us the opportunity to choose a product that
doesn't negatively impact our health or our environment. And when it
comes to major home remodeling or improvement projects, homeowners have a
wide array of choices that can ultimately make a positive, rather than a
negative, impact on the environment. As we celebrate Earth Day, let's
take a look at some of the best ways to approach your next home
improvement project that not only makes your home look beautiful, but
adds value to your property, your health and the planet.<br />
<br />
<strong>1. Get educated about sustainability</strong><br />
Before starting any remodeling or home improvement project, become
educated about which materials and supplies are "green" and which ones
you might want to do without. Reclaimed wood or cork seem like obvious
flooring materials for your next green project, but did you know that
linoleum has one of the lowest manufacturing emissions of any flooring
product?<br />
<br />
You may know that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are
bad for your health, but did you know that VOCs are emitted by thousands
of products you might already have in your home like paints, cleaning
supplies, building materials, craft materials, and furnishings? Smart
homeowners looking for earth-friendly home products will also want to
consider which products might be negatively contributing to the overall
health of their home, and also look at how products are manufactured and
their overall impact to our environment. It may be an overwhelming
process to become educated on this topic, but understanding your options
will make you feel like you are truly adding value to your home, as
well as your environment.<br />
<br />
<strong>2. Tour green homes</strong><br />
Touring a green building or home is a fantastic way to see first-hand
how other families have incorporated green building practices within a
budget. Very often the builders are on-site to answer questions you
might have about costs, practicality or longevity. Another great example
of green building and how it works in real life is the <a href="http://porch.com/advice/bullitt-center-living-building-challenge/" target="_hplink">Bullitt Center</a>,
a commercial structure recently built in Seattle, Washington. Not only
did they incorporate the usual eco-conscious materials like solar
panels, composting and energy efficient fixtures, they required that no
materials used in building the structure (including paints, sealants,
fasteners, and insulation) contain any "red list" hazardous materials
like PVC, lead, mercury or hormone-mimicking substances, all of which
are commonly found in building components. In a sense, they have built a
building that is healthier for the environment, healthier for the
builders who worked on the project and healthier for the employees who
work there every day.<br />
<br />
<strong>3. Work with eco-friendly brands</strong><br />
Some manufacturers and brands pride themselves not only on the quality
of their materials, but on their commitment to sustainable business
practices. Carlisle Wide Plank Floors, based in New Hampshire, sells
reclaimed and antique wood flooring. After 45 years of working in the
wood plank flooring business, Carlisle is the most-requested supplier of
reclaimed wide plank flooring in North America. In fact, in 2014 their
mill recycled 4.4 million pounds of sawdust, which was turned into wood
pellets (called BioBricks), which can be effectively used for heating
and is a clean burning choice for fireplaces and wood stoves. Their
finishes have no measurable volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and there
is no off-gassing on site. Their sourcing is also conscientious: their
made-in-the-USA products use mostly local wood and will not deal with
any suppliers who engage in clear-cutting. Taking the time to research
your suppliers can be an excellent way to become educated about the
products available to you, as well as make you feel better about where
you are spending your money.<br />
<br />
<strong>4. Shop at green stores</strong><br />
Shopping for green building supplies is easier than ever, even for the
average homeowner on a tight budget. Suppliers and stores are getting
better at labeling the "ingredients" of typical materials and some
stores are implementing policies with regards to the types of materials
they will stock. Much like a health food store, these green building
supply companies want their customers to feel educated and empowered
when it comes to comparing products. Stores like Treehouse, Green Depot,
and Green Building Supply encourage homeowners to think carefully
before buying home building supplies. Many of these stores supply a wide
variety of typical project materials like paint, insulation, drywall,
cabinets and countertops as well as tools and other housewares. Some
stores even offer in-store classes or consultations to make your
learning curve go faster.<br />
<br />
<strong>5. Hire green contractors and builders</strong><br />
If your project requires a contractor or builder, you can narrow down
your search by hiring a pro that is trained in green building practices.
Organizations like the <a href="https://porch.com/organization/BPI" target="_hplink">Building Performance Institute </a>certify
professionals, like contractors, in the field of energy efficiency for
the home. This means that they lend expert advice and solutions for
homeowners wanting to ensure important home safety functions like mold
prevention, carbon monoxide, solar solutions, geothermal or other types
of energy upgrades.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.homeinnovation.com/green" target="_hplink">National Green Building Standard</a>
(NGBS) is another organization that helps homeowners understand the
value of using green methods when remodeling or building a new home. An
NGBS certified home goes beyond energy efficiency. It measures
remodeling or new building construction in site design, resource
efficiency, water efficiency, energy efficiency, indoor environmental
quality and building operation and maintenance. It's a holistic approach
to home remodeling or new home construction and helps homeowners
understand the cost benefit analysis of choosing green construction over
standard practices. You can read more about the NGBS certification
process <a href="http://porch.com/advice/look-ngbs-green-certified-mark/" target="_hplink">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<strong>6. Recycle, Reuse, Repurpose</strong><br />
The three original "R's" of Earth Day still ring true today. One of the
simplest ways to reduce your waste is to recycle what you already have,
reuse it in another way or repurpose it. Many local organizations accept
donations of unwanted building materials like cabinetry, countertops,
stone or other materials. Better yet, many of these places sell those
pieces at a discount, perfect for homeowners looking for a creative DIY
project or a vintage piece that lends character to their home. When
removing or tearing down an existing structure or room, work with your
contractor to save or recycle what you can. Even if you can't reuse
these materials, chances are another organization or homeowner can. If
you choose to purchase older materials for your home, make sure that
they are free from lead, asbestos or other known hazardous materials.<br />
<br />
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