Posts in category Tips and Ideas

Baby Boomer? Yes You Can Stay in Your Home!

Oct18
2018 Written by mary.w

So, you bought your home in 1980 for $50,000 and now it’s worth a whopping $400,000! Woo Hoo you’re living on easy street, right? Possibly not so much. Just because your home’s value has increased doesn’t mean that your costs of staying there and maintaining that home haven’t done the same. If you’re over 65 and living on a fixed income you may be actually struggling to make ends meet.

It’s actually true that for many Baby Boomers, their home’s equity is their only and most valuable asset. But what if you don’t want to move? What if you want to stay in the home where you raised your family and now enjoy watching your grandkids grow when they come to visit Grandma and Grandpa? There are a few options for you to explore, the best one for you being determined by your needs, wants and qualifications. Here are some options for you to investigate:

  • Home Equity Credit Lines
  • Refinancing Your Current Mortgage to Provide Yourself a Cushion Fund
  • Reverse Mortgages (currently new types and more flexible options than the original format you see on a lot of commercials)

Using one of these options means that once funded, you can use the money as you deem necessary: to pay for in home care, get that necessary new furnace or roof, home maintenance or lawn care (if you no longer can do these yourself), or to even just be able to do things for and with your grandkids.  For help deciding which might be best for you, talk with your financial advisor if you have one or contact the Federal Trade Commission either by phone or online and request information regarding the different options. Do your due diligence and then live in your home, your way so you can relax and enjoy your senior years!

Posted in General Information, Uncategorized

The Season Has Changed So Update Your Strategy!

Sep23
2018 Written by mary.w

Today is the week of Autumn. If your home has been on the market through the summer, here are some simple steps you can take to bring your marketing campaign into the new season.

  • Pull up the remainder of your dying summer flowers and replace with autumn specific plants or plantings such as mums, sunflowers, autumn crocus, goldenrod and others (do an online search for autumn blooms for your specific area). Mums are an inexpensive option in small, medium and large containers for quick landscaping changes at a minimal cost.
  • If you home is wrapped in fall colors and landscapes, update your photos highlight the season.
  • Use pumpkins or squash varieties to create autumn displays near your entryway. BUT Don’t go over board and create such a massive display that it’s all your buyers can see.Image result for Fall Decorating Ideas
  • On a tight budget? The Dollar Tree or other such stores have a wide variety of items you can use to create season specific decor without breaking your bank.
  • Change the wreath on your front door to more fall specific color tones than what you may have had on there for summer (or spring if you never changed it in June…wink wink).
  • Put pumpkin scented waxes or candles around your home to update your aroma to a scent that reminds everyone of the fall and thanksgiving.
  • Having an open house? Instead of putting out chocolate chip cookies, replace them with pumpkin spice yummies instead.
  • Aromas have a very strong effect on people so put a pot of simmering hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks on the stove. Feels like coming home!

Key: Try to avoid being holiday specific such as halloween or thanksgiving decorations. Promote the season not the holiday.  Keep your advertising Image result for Fall Decorating Ideascurrent but NOT overwhelming to reap maximum results.

Posted in General Information, Selling Tips, Uncategorized

Creating the Feeling of Space in your Too Small Kitchen

Aug23
2018 Written by mary.w

Always want the feel and storage of a larger kitchen? There are a few things you can do to maximize small alcoves or inset nooks. Perhaps you have one of those built in desks that have been nothing more than a catchall that then makes your room appear even smaller due to the paper clutter.  Some tips below can take your small out of date and claustrophobic kitchen from your least favorite place to your favorite family hangout!

Remove the built in desk and add a free standing cabinet that fills tImage result for images of cabinets with glass front topshe whole space but feels open due to at least the top having glass fronts. This allows you to showcase your glassware or lovely teapots, dishes, cookbooks or other special items that have been crammed in a box somewhere. By keeping solid bottom doors you have a place to store dishes, pans and other items you want handy but aren’t pretty enough to showcase.

Do you have a small alcove in your kitchen that is not deep enough for extra cabinets or Bakers Racklarge enough to accommodate even a small table? Always wanted a china cabinet to display your loveliest dishes?  Try a bakers rack (like this one from the Container Store).  Showcase your dishes, platters, pitchers, cookie jars….all the pieces of your set and then, if you choose, use the hooks to add the shimmer of your stainless or copper pans as a highlight. You can sometimes find items like this that will fit perfectly within the area you’re trying to fill and create a beautiful display to be both admired and functional while keeping your cost to a minimum.

Don’t have spaces to add a baker’s rack or cabinet? No problem. See the source imageChange out the top doors of some of your cabinets to glass fronts. This allows you to display your glassware and dishes while expanding the visual imprint of the space itself. You can keep this affordable by replacing only a couple but the results will be immediate. Also, painting dark cabinets white can create instant visual space at a minimal cost. BUT if you decide to paint your cabinets make sure and do your research and do it well!

Posted in Decorating on a Budget, General Information, Home Improvement, Uncategorized

WHAT YOUR HOME MAY BE SAYING THAT’S COSTING YOU $$!

Aug15
2018 Written by mary.w

CLUTTER SAYS:  There’s not a lot of room in this home and very little storage. Keep in mind that what you see as “collectible” others see as clutter. Purge BEFORE you put your home on the market so you don’t lose valuable time fixing this issue too late. Fill and store Clutter-is-OUTbins with the off season clothing, boots, big blankets…whatever you can remove that will make your closets look roomier and storage appear ample.

FULL MIRROR WALL/WASHED OAK CABINETS/BRIGHT BRASS FIXTURES/PSYCHEDELIC WALLPAPER/POPCORN CEILINGS, etc SAY: This home hasn’t been updated for a very long time and so you should get a great deal on the price. These items can actually be updated at reasonable costs so consider doing so BEFORE you hit the market. Disclaimer: If your decor deliberately displays Retro decor, embrace it fully and sell as such which will bring you a great price with the Retro seeking buyer…and they are out there!

DIRTY BASEBOARDS/TRIM/WINDOWSILLS/MESSY ROOMS SAY: If you think this is dirty, wait until you pull out the refrigerator and stove! Even if you are comfortable living in a less than pristine environment, it’s important to market your home to the masses who most often are seeking to not find hidden schmutz after they move in. You can typically hire a cleaning crew to do a “Spring Cleaning” for $250-300. This will be money highly multiplied in its return when you sell.

Keep in mind that you are marketing your home to your buyers not to yourself. If necessary, have a good friend that you trust to be honest help you evaluate what you should consider doing before selling and then do what you can afford prioritizing the items by what will maximize your profit. Then fix and sell!!

Posted in General Information, Home Improvement, Selling Tips, Uncategorized

Increase Your Kitchen’s Value Without Decreasing your Bank Account!

Jul05
2018 Written by mary.w

The following affordable Kitchen upgrades can increase your value while being mindful of your pocketbook.

1.Update your cabinets by painting them and installing new hardware. Of course this is less costly if you do the work yourself BUT if you’re not great at diy projects, you might KITCHENwant to either hire someone to do the work OR reach out to a friend or family member who has proven themselves to be very handy and a good diy-er. If your cabinets end up looking repainted instead of looking like new, you can actually decrease instead of increasing the value of the ‘upgrade’. Changing out the hardware will be easier if you choose new hardware that uses the same number of holes as the old. Then you can simply unscrew the old and install the new. Maybe your cabinets don’t need painting but look like builder grade. Adding crown molding will immediately upgrade the look of your upper cabinets. Simple and effective upgrade!!

2. Change your sink and faucet. Stainless always a good choice but certainly if your home’s design warrants, farm sinks are very popular and stand the test of time because they are considered as trendy as they are retro.  Faucets should also reflect the style of your home. Big box stores along with home bargain outlets have great options at surprisingly minimal costs.  If you don’t know how to install a sink or faucet, again, don’t be afraid to ask for help or shop around for a local handyman who comes with great references for quality of work and cost to value!

3. Update or add a backsplash that blends with your countertops (if you have granite, try to match the tones with glass tiles so it looks like it was all done at that same time!) There are so many great and affordable backsplash options right now that for the minimal work involved, the value can be strong.

4. If you have old, dingy, linoleum or vinyl floors, replacing them with newer flooring or upgraded options like ceramic tile (which can be very very affordable and one of the less difficult diy projects). There are even fabulous new ceramic tiles that when installed, look like hardwood floors! Refinish hardwood floors instead of replacing but if they are too far gone, you might even consider scraping and painting them. There are sooo many great flooring ideas online. Take time to look at several and choose the one you believe you can do yourself or with a friend that will enhance your room and your pocketbook!

NEW Kitchen Appliances5. Get rid of the countertop microwave and old fashioned over range vent and replace it with a built in microwave. This can be done for under $400 and will immediately update the look of your kitchen. OR if you already have a built in microwave but an old fashioned hood, install a ductless range hood (will keep your costs down by not requiring you to add new venting). This will definitely create the look and feel of a gourmet kitchen. Anytime you’re adding or changing a hood, make sure that the height from your range to vent will fit before you do all the work and then discover you won’t pass inspection. Simply read the box before you buy and adjust accordingly.

6. If you’ve already made lots of updates and are wanting to take it to the next level of upgrade, replace your ceiling light with recessed lighting. This can certainly be more costly if you don’t know someone who can do the work, but if you do, this can certainly improve the wow factor. If you can’t afford to install recessed lighting and you have outdated or a blah overhead fixture, replace that fixture with a more current and upgraded look. Again, big box stores and outlet stores have great options at surprisingly affordable prices.  If you have a high ceiling, consider installing a fanlight!

7. Last but certainly not least, upgrade your countertops. This is a definite shop around for your best options and deals.  Granite tiles are cheaper than a slab of granite so if you want See the source imagegranite, this might be an option you’ll consider. Cement is certainly popular right now and not surprisingly butcher block is back in style. Again, shop online and then in person. Take your time!

 

The key to all of this is to set a budget and work to stay within that because it’s very easy to get wooed by the more expensive options. Doing so can possibly eliminate any value that you might have derived from all your hard work. And again, don’t hesitate to draw on friends and family that you know have the expertise to help you. They most likely will be happy to do so and possibly offended if you didn’t even give them the opportunity to assist you with your projects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Decorating on a Budget, General Information, Home Improvement, Selling Tips, Uncategorized

Closing is a Process

May31
2018 Written by mary.w
What to Expect from the Closing ProcessYou searched, found and made an offer on your dream home that the seller accepted. Inspections have taken place and ff you were a prepared buyer, you were pre-approved and so now got the final approval for your mortgage loan. Next step is closing….right? Well, yes and no. Closing is a process and some things will take place prior to you sitting down and signing the mortgage paperwork and other necessary documents and then…yay….leave with the keys to your new home!  The following details will help you be totally prepared for the closing process and put the key into your new front door with a joyful (and stressless) heart!

Review Your Closing Disclosure

Prior to your actual closing (must be given to you 3 days prior to your closing date), you’ll receive a Closing Disclosure which will detail the final costs of your loan. As soon as you receive this document, acknowledge receipt so that your closing does not get delayed due to a time error. Your Closing Disclosure might not be exactly the same as the Loan Estimate that you received previously but should be within 10% of the original figures.

Perform a Final Walk ThroughThis is an important step and usually takes place up to one day prior to closing to ensure that everything is exactly as stated it would be in your purchase agreement.  A checklist should include:

  •   Take the time to check that all the lights (inside and out) , faucets, showers,   outlets, furnace, air conditioner,etc. are in working order.
  •   Make sure the remote(s) for the garage door work.
  •   Based on the agreement and inspections, were all the repairs agreed to completed?
  •   Again based on your purchase agreement are all the items that were supposed to be left there and in working order or the condition promised…appliances, window treatments and any items that are not permanent fixtures but were part of the agreement.
  • If the seller has already moved out, check for any damages that may have been caused in the process.

If there are any issues that need resolution, you can contact the listing agent and if necessary negotiate a remedy or you can ask to delay the closing until the problems have been resolved.

Bring With You to Closing

The closing agent should let you know what they will need from you at closing but below are some items that are typically required:

  • Photo ID: Driver’s license or another valid government issued ID.
  • Your down payment and closing costs: Cashier’s check, Bank Check or proof of wire transfer.
  • Your Closing Disclosure: This will allow you to compare with the final document.
  • The closing agent should let you know what they will need from you at closing but below are some items that are typically required:

Who Will Be at the Closing

Typically all buyers who will be on the mortgage will need to sign documents at the closing. If you cannot attend the physical closing and have an attorney, you can give them power of attorney to sign the documents for you. This can vary state to state so make sure you ASK rather than assume. Sometimes, both seller and buyer will be there but, again, this can vary by state.

A closing agent will facilitate the closing. They’re typcially a neutral third party who will assist you and the seller through the process. If you have an attorney and your buyer does not, your closing might be scheduled at your attorney’s office in lieu of the title company. If you have one, your real estate agent can attend and in fact in some states, they are required to be there. They will know if that’s the case.

It’s always best, just so you feel relaxed and prepared, to find out, in your state, who must be at the closing and who can be at the closing.

This is an exciting event. After all the documents are signed and monies paid, you will receive the keys to your dream home and begin your wonderful new adventure! Congratulations!!

Posted in General Information, Uncategorized

Are Solar Panels Really Worth the Money & Effort?

Apr28
2018 Written by mary.w

You’ve heard the pitch, “Save thousands of dollars by going solar!”. But is that true for you and how can you get through the hype and determine the truth.

Below are a couple of things to consider when considering going solar:

What are you currently paying for your electricity?

This is probably going to be the most important factor that you will be considering since your goal from installing solar is to lower the cost of powering your home. If you look at your current electric bill, you’ll see that your bill is based on the number of kilowatt-hour (kWh) you use. Costs per kWh can vary greatly based on where you live. Make sure when determining your savings you are using your actual cost per kWh and not calculating your savings based on a generalized article or ‘worksheet’ you’ve found online. Obviously those homeowners with the highest electricity rates will most likely save the most by switching to solar power.

What will a switch to a Solar Panel System Cost to Install?

When considering the solar company you will use for this major investment, going with the lowest bid just because it’s the least out of pocket, may cost you far more in the long run. You must consider both your short term and long term gains when choosing equipment and the company that will design and install your system. Take your time. Meet with multiple companies and don’t be afraid to ask very specific questions about them, their installation team, their warranties, etc.  With all the research and details available online, prepare for your meetings with the companies by creating a list of specific questions you need answers to in order to choose. Take notes. Get all your questions answered. If they are trying to rush through your appointment, rush them out your door!

Don’t be afraid to ask about any incentives or discounts they may currently be offering BUT don’t get pushed into making an immediate decision “or else lose today’s special price”. That’s probably the first company you should cross off your list.  note: Odds are pretty high that if you called them the next week and told them you would like to hire them but at the discounted price, they will say yes.

Speaking of incentives….check in your city, county and state to see if there are any energy incentives and rebates available. These can sometimes reduce your net cost by 50% or more. The federal government offers a 30% solar tax credit (search online for details and ask your tax professional for how you personally could benefit). Hard to believe but true…some utility companies even offer rebates to their customers to encourage their switch to solar power. Check your utility company’s website for details.

Only you can determine if the switch to solar offers you enough benefit to outweigh the initial costs. As in any big decision, due diligence is the key!
 

 

Posted in General Information, Green Living, Home Improvement, Uncategorized

FLING INTO SPRING!

Feb16
2018 Written by mary.w

Spring is just around the corner…no really! Spring officially kicks off in around HomeGarden30 days! So what are you doing to get your home ready?

Spring is typically considered the best time to market your home. Flowers start to bloom, trees turn green, curb appeal is greatly improved and the kids will shortly be out of school for summer break. BUT with the melting snow comes the realization that all that snow shoveling had scraped away what was your freshly painted or stained deck and the plow did a number on your driveway and mailbox. So now what?

Get a jump on the end of winter and move confidently into spring by taking advantage of periodic warm-up days and sunshine to take inventory of damage that will need repairs. Make a list, get the supplies you need and be ready as the weather improves to fix the most obvious eye sores first and then continue through the hidden but necessary repairs.

Consider putting your home on the market before the “Spring Rush” so you can capture the attention of active buyers now before your competition increases.  It’s true that there are more buyers in the spring BUT there are also a lot more sellers. Be diligent with getting your repairs and refreshments completed and be one of the first homes to hit the pre-Spring market!

Posted in General Information, Selling Tips, Uncategorized

Maximize your Upgrades while Minimizing Your Costs!

Jan25
2018 Written by mary.w

Want to upgrade your home to receive maximum $$ you’ve seen other homes in your area receiving but don’t have a bundle of cash to do all you desire? Here are a few ways to maximize your offering while minimizing your cost!

Granite Countertops:  Eliminate the middle man (Home Depot, Kitchen Design Shop, Granite Specialty Stores) when shopping for new counters.

Search for wholesale granite companies that supply the middle men mentioned HOME INTERIOR 006 - Copyabove. You can cut your cost by 30-50%, have a better selection of granite choices and reduce your installation costs. Consider using granite tiles as part of your design in lieu of full  slabs. This can also reduce your overall costs. One other way to reduce your cost is to stick with a bullnose edge instead of getting lured into something fancier. It still looks great but is the least expensive option. Ex: The granite you see in the photo is the same granite sold by Home Depot for $78+/sf.  The cost at the wholesale company that actually supplies the local Home Depot was under $50/sf installed allowing the entire kitchen to be done in slab granite for under $2500 installed! Take the time to shop wholesale!

Porcelain or Italian Tile, Marble & Other Stone Wall & Floor Options

  • Again search for bargain outlet stores (ie: HOBOs – Homeowners Bargain Outlet) At stores like this you can find tile and marble at a fraction of the cost of buying it at big box stores. The key is that these types of stores get in inventory randomly so make sure you purchase more than what you think you’ll need (because you 16always need more) because if you go back it may no longer be available. Ex: The marble in the photo was used for the Master Bath floor and spa shower walls at a cost of $3/sf versus the $14/sf it was marked up to at Home Depot (the exact same tiles).

 

These are just two examples of how you can upgrade your Kitchen and Baths which always bring the best increased value to your home by taking the time to shop wholesale stores and suppliers, eliminating the middle man of the typical big box or retails specialty stores. It might take a little extra work but your savings will be vast and your reward plentiful!

 

 

Posted in Decorating on a Budget, General Information, Home Improvement, Uncategorized

A QUICK FIX FOR PENNIES

Oct28
2017 Written by mary.w

Sometimes we can see cosmetic issues in our home that, if addressed, will present a more finished look for ourselves living there or if we’re selling, for buyers considering purchasing. BUT it’s not so easy when we can also see that our bank account will not allow us to replace all the items that need a fresh look. Here are a couple simple ideas that will refresh your home without breaking the bank!

  • If you live in an area with high humidity and consistent use of central air, you may find your metal vents showing bits (or lots) of rust and loss of color. Now, buying one or two vent covers might be no big deal but when you need to replace several or the whole home, it adds up. So instead of replacing them, scrape, sand and then give them a fresh look with a paint like Rustoleum that you can easily spray on, let dry and have a great new look in a very short time for under $5!

                          IMG_0151IMG_0155IMG_0176

  • Other items that you can use the same process on to give a fresh look and spend pennies:  Old ceiling fan: take apart, spray the body and the paddles updating an 80’s-90’s brass look to an updated oiled bronze, black or other trending color.  Old drawer pulls and door knobs? An hour of your time and they can look all brand new.

Walk through your home with a friend you trust to be honest and take notes on what you can update and refresh while at the same time, keeping your costs to a minimum!

Posted in Decorating on a Budget, General Information, Home Improvement, Uncategorized
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