Welcome to the official Blog of BuyOwner.com

BuyOwner.com buy sell trade rent

  • Home
  • About BuyOwner.com
  • Popular Posts

Posts tagged adding value to your home

Adding Value by Installing a Fireplace

Dec14
2009
Leave a Comment Written by Carrie

 Fireplaces

Sometimes, a little extra goes a long way. Especially in real estate—upgrades and additions like enclosing a patio, finishing a basement or expanding a walk-in closet can add a lot of value to a home.

And in certain cases, climate may play a role in choosing which luxuries to add. Swimming pools, for example, are great for properties located in warm regions, and fireplaces add warmth to homes in colder areas.

In December, many snow-bound homeowners opt for more traditional methods of heating, such as wood-burning stoves and gas-log fireplaces. If you are such a homeowner, consider these tips before you make the addition!

  • Hire a professional. You could be working with gas lines, and you are also dealing with fire management. Find someone who will safely (and properly) install the fireplace and obtain the necessary work permits for the job. You’ll also want to make sure that your insurance company is notified that you are getting a fireplace and that it has been professionally installed.
  • Consider the maintenance involved. Gas fireplaces need a gas line and a venting space. Wood-burning fireplaces require a chimney and a firebox. Which one is right for you? And will you clean the space yourself or will you hire cleaners?
  • Carefully decide where you want it. Once it’s there, it is not moving. If you want it to be the focal point of the room, the fireplace should be placed in the center of a wall. Watch out for windows and doors, and keep in mind that corner units may be smaller and take up less space than traditional wall fireplaces. There are also regulations for the sizes of the hearth, the surround, the mantels and the vents; however, your contractor should know this.

Adding a fireplace as a luxury feature could add a few thousand dollars value to your property. And if you go the green route, this addition looks even more appealing to a buyer. Just be sure to take the necessary precautions before you buy anything or begin work.

Posted in Selling Tips, Tips and Ideas - Tagged contractor, gas fireplace, hiring a professional, installing a fireplace, wood-burning fireplace
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

Feng Shui Decorating

Sep11
2008
2 Comments Written by Alicia

We spend a third of our lives in the bedroom. This is considered our most personal space where we rest and rejuvenate in the evening for a refreshed feeling in the morning. But those following the principles of feng shui may be waking up more refreshed than others.

Feng shui (pronounced fung shway) dictates that our surroundings affect our health, wealth and happiness. Feng shui literally translates to “wind and water” in Chinese. It is considered the art of placement. It states that if you place your furniture and belongings in a particular setup, especially in the bedroom, positive and balanced energy can offer you the most peaceful state of mind to wake up to.

Even if you don’t believe in this, the rules still make for smart design sense.

You could opt to keep your feng shui bedroom design as simple as this:

1. The tiger crouches at your side for protection. Place a nightstand lower than the bed to the right side.
2. The dragon flies high in the sky. Place a tall shelving unit or dresser to the left side of the bed.
3. The phoenix needs room to fly far out and ahead. Make the area by the foot of your bed clear of clutter.
4. The tortoise brings up the rear. Place the head of the bed against a wall or, more importantly, acquire a bed with a solid headboard.
5. The snake resides in the center. Center the bed so that you could exit from either side.

If you want to become more involved with feng shui, much more advice is available. Pick and choose what you’d like to include in your bedroom, or go all out and follow every rule for the highest possible impact. Here are some highlights:

The windows and doors control the flow of energy. The most important rule states that your bed should rest in the middle of the bedroom and the bedroom door should be visible from the bed but not directly across from it or next to it. This allows you the feeling of safety but doesn’t allow the energy flow to be disrupted. The best setup would place your bed diagonally across from the door. You must never allow the bed to directly face the door. This is referred to as the “coffin” position and drains you while you sleep.

Do not place your bed directly next to a window. This will stifle the energy flow. Mirrors create negative energy. Your best bet is to cover windows and mirrors in your bedroom with a scarf or curtains while you sleep. This will forbid the possibility of energy bouncing off mirrors, therefore allowing the energy to flow naturally.

Try not to sleep under ceiling beams or a ceiling fan that will force energy to push down forcefully on your body.

Use soft, natural, earthly colors in the bedroom, such as cream, copper, tan, cocoa, peach and light shades of blues and greens. Shades of pink and red make excellent accent colors if you are looking to increase romance in your life.

Your bedroom should always include furniture for two. With your bed in the middle of the room, place a nightstand on each side of the bed. Choose artwork that has two people or objects displayed. This will create a room with unity and balance, which will in turn balance your daily life.

When choosing new furniture, such as the nightstands next to the bed, apt for rounded corners that cannot cut off energy. Only place peaceful items next to the bed and throughout the room. On your nightstand, rest a vase of flowers, scented oils or your favorite photograph next to the bed. Get rid of any item that carries negative energy, such as a mattress you bought with a friend you no longer communicate with.

Allow the clutter in your room to disappear once and for all! This includes storage under the bed and in the closet. Every area of the room should possess an airy space to allow energy to freely flow through. Shut away all electronics when it’s time for bed. Keep your television in a cabinet with doors, place your alarm clock as far away from your bed as possible and shut your phone off. Keep financial paperwork and exercise gear in another room. You should only fill your personal space with peaceful, tranquil items.

Close all the doors to your room, including the bathroom door. This will allow the healthy energy to flow only to you and not “down the drain”. During the day, open up the windows or doors whenever possible to allow the air in your room to constantly remain fresh.

If you only have a ceiling light fixture, purchase a lamp or dimmers. This allows you to balance high impact and low impact lighting for a balanced energy, and to alter the atmosphere of your room to suit your mood. Surround yourself with sensuous tastes, sounds and smells to keep your frame of mind free of stress and full of harmony.

Posted in Home Improvement, Tips and Ideas - Tagged decorating, feng shui, home decor, improving your home, interior design
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

Storm-Proofing Your Home

Sep07
2008
Leave a Comment Written by Carrie

Whether you live on the Gulf Coast or in the Midwest, and whether your house is old or new, you must be aware of the damages that natural disasters can do to homes all across the country. Strong winds can cause weak spots to cave in. Flying debris can crash through windows. Roofs can be ripped off the tops of homes.

Today, many durable, storm-resistant homes have been built with insulated wall panels that are reinforced with concrete forms. This makes them resistant to blustering winds and raging waters. But if you have a solid base, what else should you to keep your home resistant against threatening storms? Here’s a list!

1. Secure your garage
Secure your garage door! Many garage doors are made of lightweight materials, saving consumers a ton of money. However, this makes them highly vulnerable to strong winds. If you see a sticker on the inside of your garage door that gives you a pressure rating, you will not have to replace your door. This sticker should indicate a wind rating and a debris rating. If you don’t see a sticker, chances are you will need to reinforce the door.

Garage doors can be secured by installing horizontal bracing behind each panel. Bracing kits can be purchased from the garage door manufacturers. However, some products may not be up to code and they can be quite expensive. You really need to do your homework. If you do not want to install bracing kits yourself, and you do not mind paying a bit extra for protection, you could even have a contractor replace the entire system with impact-resistant doors.

2. Reinforce windows and doors
If you live in a hurricane- or storm-prone area, you may want to think about installing impact-resistant windows. These windows are designed to withstand debris, and they also reduce noise and protect against harmful UV rays. Although these windows may cost more, keep in mind that they are useful for more than just storm-proofing. If you live in an area that suffers from the occasional strong thunderstorm, you may want to invest in storm shutters. There are many styles ranging from plywood to aluminum. Remember, permanent shutters must meet the building code approval for your area.
Most exterior doors do not have enough bolts or pins to stand strong against high winds and debris. Installing additional bolts only costs between $10 and $40. Again, if you would rather hire a contractor and get a little more protection, you could replace your weak door with a storm door.

3. Glue your roof down
High winds can rip the roof shingles right off the top of your home! By gluing your roof down, you will be able to increase your roof’s resistance to wind. All you have to do is go to your local home improvement store and purchase a premium floor adhesive. This glue should have strong rating, as shown on the label. Using a caulking gun, squeeze a small drop of glue under the shingle where it meets the support beam.

4. Check your trees
How many times have you watched the news and seen a fallen tree protruding into someone’s kitchen or laying down on top of a crushed vehicle? Fallen trees and broken branches account for millions of dollars in damage to homes. So how can you fix it?

First, check out the health of your trees. Are there any significant cracks near the trunk? Are mushrooms growing from the bark? Signs of decay and fungus are usually an indication that your tree is dying and you should remove it immediately. If your house has ever had termites or other bug infestations, you may also want to look for those in your trees. If bugs are eating away at the bark, the tree could fall on your house without the aid of high winds. Second, if the branches are growing out over your home or close to windows, trim them! You don’t want a broken branch soaring through your bedroom window!

5. Secure your stuff
It can difficult to store a boat or an R.V. out of harm’s way. However, if you have patio furniture or decorative lawn accessories adorning your property, bring them inside when strong weather occurs. Also, don’t forget to store trash cans, portable grills and potted plants. Depending on your storage limitations, the best place to keep these objects would be inside a garage or a basement.

If you are unsure as to whether or not your home is fully protected from tornados or hurricanes, you can always hire a contractor to inspect it. Just remember that the key areas include the garage, the roof, the doors and the windows. You can take care of your own personal belongings that are scattered around your property. Remember, preparation now can mean protection later!

Posted in Home Improvement, Tips and Ideas - Tagged house protection, hurricane shutters, preparing your home, storm windows, storm-proofing, weather, weather protection
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

Do You Know about the Untapped Potential in Your Home?

Aug29
2008
Leave a Comment Written by Allegra

attic

The Essentials
Did you know that your attic offers you the opportunity to add livable space to your home without going through all the hassle (and expenses) of an addition? It’s true! With a little hard work and elbow grease, you can turn your currently unused attic into a new master suite, a game room, a rec room, a home office or anything you wish!

You will need a permit for this project. You’ll also need a zoning check and a site plan. You may also want to hire a building inspector or a structural engineer to check things out and make sure your attic can actually be converted.

The Plan
Some adjustments will need to be in order for the attic transformation to take place.

First, does your attic have a floor? The framework will most likely need to be reinforced to make sure it can hold up against walking and everyday furniture. You may also need to reinforce the roof to make sure it can hold up insulation. Speaking of which, you’ll need to insulate and ventilate this space. A separate system can be installed in the attic for heating and air-conditioning if your current one won’t work.

Building codes require the room to be seven-and-a-half feet over 50 percent of the living area. Cramped does not mean cozy, and if you have to crouch in your new living space, you probably won’t be using it much. Make sure the ceiling height is tall enough. This can be altered. You can switch out a hipped roof with a gabled roof (like the roof of a shed) or dormers. Not only do these alternations add height, but usually windows as well.

You will need to make sure your attic gets enough light so it doesn’t feel dark and tiny. Dormers allow you to add windows. You can also install skylights and/or artificial lighting.

If you are going to be using the attic, you’re, of course, going to want to have it easily accessible. For this, you can use an existing staircase or install a new one. If there’s already a staircase leading to the attic, make sure it’s structurally sound. If not, you can install a traditional staircase. You can also install a spiral staircase. Whichever you choose, there are certain requirements you’ll need to meet to make the staircase up to code.

The Work

All of this work can be done yourself, or you can hire a contractor to do the heavy lifting. It all depends on your budget and how much you have to spend. Don’t forget to figure out a budget before you start this project, and try your best to stick to it! Also, make a plan before you start anything so you can figure out if what you want is feasible.

As long as it’s possible to convert your attic, then there’s no reason to ignore the potential living space up there, just collecting dust. Turn it into something great and enjoy!

If you enjoyed this post, consider subscribing to the Buy Owner Blog!

Posted in Tips and Ideas - Tagged add-ons to home, adding space, additions, expanding living areas, expansions, home, home remodeling, home renovations, how to improve your home, real estate, untapped potential
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

The Perks of Outdoor Paradise

Aug19
2008
1 Comment Written by Alicia

Backyard

No matter what size yard you own, a casual sitting area can help make the most out of the space you were given. Whether it’s a massive backyard sanctuary or a mini cement patio, this area can accommodate an abundant number of extra activities with perks that go along with each one.

Here are 10 benefits to owning a terrace in your backyard:

  1. More usable space. Most people own a backyard, but some people never step foot in the yard unless it’s to mow the lawn. However, if you add a solid sitting area to this space, you’ll be more apt to use it. A solid surface offers a place to sit or stand comfortably without bugs crawling around you, grass tickling your ankles and allergies acting up. You have this solid area for the sole purpose of using it, so you most likely will. A side perk is that you’ll have less grass to mow with a patio or deck taking up space!
  2. Room to relax. After a long day of work or stress, sometimes you just need to unwind. Relaxing outdoors won’t cause you to feel as lazy as if you chose to take a nap on the couch with the blinds shut. Sunbathe on a lounge chair while the sunshine soaks you with vitamin D, or sit under a roof or in a screened-in lanai so you don’t have to bother with poor weather, annoying bugs, other neighbors and strong winds. Either way, you’ll receive fresh air and you’ll still sleep soundly at night.
  3. A social spot! Inside parties can get crammed and stuffy, but inviting guests to a backyard barbeque is appealing and efficient. You’ll save energy by not using the oven, your kitchen won’t become hot and smoky, you can feel good about spending time outdoors, and you get to enjoy delicious food aromas and tastes. Barbeques are also a great way to spruce up your eating patterns.
  4. Perfect for a pool. If you still want to incorporate social activities into your backyard time but you don’t want to grill, think about adding a pool. Usually with a pool, a patio or a deck is included in the plan. You’re halfway there already! A pool adds tons of extra amenities. Swimming, exercising, soothing sounds, relaxation and social activities are suddenly available to you everyday without driving anywhere! You can now define your backyard as a true party place. Would you rather relax your tense muscles? Have a whirlpool or Jacuzzi put in for a serene escape in the outdoors.
  5. Showcase style. Even if you don’t partake in many activities, a backyard sitting area can flourish with design and style. Patios come in all shapes and sizes. Lanais add a sense of luxury. Wooden decks provide class. Whether your backyard incorporates brick paver, ceramic tile, stucco, cement or wood, it’ll look unique from all other backyards. Add some gardens and landscaping around this area, perhaps even a fountain for soothing water sounds, and you’ve created your very own backyard paradise that others will admire.
  6. Great for other add-ons. Add little items to this area, and you can change the whole atmosphere. If you’d like to gather a group of guests to one area, add a table umbrella. It allows a colorful, inviting item to inform guests where to reside. A fire pit allows an entire new social activity. Now you can make s’mores, tell ghost stories or lead a group sing-along. A fire pit creates a happy, peaceful atmosphere. Instead of tables and chairs, perhaps buy a swing to add to your personalized backyard. A swing could offer a romantic sitting area or just be a great place to curl up and read a book. Still looking to take that afternoon nap? Set up a hammock. So many items can be added at any time to make life more comfortable for you.
  7. Plenty of options. If you deal with the changes in seasons and inclement weather, perhaps you don’t feel like a backyard escape is worth your time and money. Roofs and screens can help with that, but you can also purchase a heater to warm up the area. Don’t let excuses ruin your chance of enjoying your own backyard.
  8. Streaming sunlight inside. If you do have a patio or deck outside, you need an entrance. Many houses provide multiple doors that lead to the outside area. Sliding doors or French doors allow natural light to stream into the home, making it brighter and homier.
  9. Distraction from electricity. With the more time you spend outdoors, the less time you’ll watch TV, play video games, browse the Internet and use kitchen appliances. Not only are you helping the environment by using up less energy, but you are saving yourself a hefty electric bill!
  10. Good for your health. Spending time outdoors is healthy. The sun provides vitamin D, the air is fresh, the sounds are peaceful and the experience is overall relaxing.

If you enjoyed this post, consider subscribing to the Buy Owner Blog!

Posted in Home Improvement, Tips and Ideas - Tagged add-ons, backyard, backyard space, creating a backyard oasis, exterior appeal, how to improve your home's yard, outdoor living
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

Get a Great Garage!

Jul03
2008
Leave a Comment Written by Alexis

GarageThe garage may be the most overused and underutilized room in the entire house.

Too often viewed as a catchall, most garages are bursting with lawn equipment, seasonal decorations and other unnecessary items that homeowners can’t bare to part with.

While homeowners will spend endless amounts of money renovating and redecorating their homes, the garage usually remains untouched. Your overworked and underappreciated garage deserves a makeover.

Here are some upgrade options to turn your garage from shabby to chic:

Organize! Overhead storage systems are a great alternative for homeowners with an abundance of clutter. They maximize ceiling space and give you back parking and floor space.

Consider upgrading your current flooring. There are many different types of garage floors, but they can be broken down into two categories. Epoxy floor coverings are painted on. This sealant resists stains, seals the floor and gives the floors an attractive appearance. Synthetic rubber and plastic mats will hide any flooring damage. They come in rolled sheets with channels that allow water and other liquids to drain and prevent pooling in your garage.

In new house construction, garage walls are often left unfinished or only partially finished by the builder, and many homeowners never get around to doing anything about it. An inexpensive, long-lasting solution is to use exterior-grade luan plywood. This smooth surface looks good when painted, resists rotting and mildew, and is tougher than sheetrock if it is bumped.

Garage doors are a big investment in the style and comfort of your home. Your garage doors can account for up to 30 percent of the exterior portion of a home that is visible from the street. The style, color and condition of the door have a great influence on the overall appearance and curb appeal of the home. Garage door options include steel, high-density polyethylene and traditional wood styles.

Garage screen doors are the perfect way to turn your garage into a screened-in porch for the summer. These screens usually attach to your garage door by means of Velcro and can be removed for storage when not in use. Aside from keeping out bugs and other pests, many of these screens provide privacy from the outside as well as protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Add energy-efficiency and hands-free convenience to your garage lighting with occupancy sensors. When placed where they can “see” both the car entrance doors and other doors, these sensors will turn on the lights automatically, keep them on while you are moving around the garage and turn the lights off after you leave.

Garage roofs are the overall protector of your garage and everything inside it. Proper garage roof drainage should be installed at all the corners of the garage roof so that rainwater can easily flow down the side drain of your garage roof or the rain gutter of your garage roof without running the risk of collapsing your garage roof.

Posted in Home Improvement, Tips and Ideas - Tagged garage remodel, home improvements, remodeling your home, selling by owner
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

COLOR: How to Choose?

Jul02
2008
2 Comments Written by Allegra

Paint colorsWhether you’ve just purchased a new home or you’re looking to spruce up a home you’ve been in for a while, paint is a simple and cheap way to add personal flair and style.

That being said, choosing paint colors can be tricky. There’s a lot to consider before you take the color plunge. You don’t want something to end up with a room that slightly resembles a medieval dungeon or the inside of a Pepto-Bismol bottle.

Here are some things to consider before you head out and pick up paint samples:

What feeling does the room give off?

For example, a bedroom may feel tranquil or serene where a living room may feel comfortable and welcoming. A game room might feel active and energetic. You want the paint to complement the room’s feel or the color will seem wrong. Brighter, livelier colors make more sense in the more vivacious rooms while softer, less in-your-face colors work in the quieter spaces.

How big is the space?

If you’ve got a small area to work with, you’ll want to make it feel bigger, which can be done with lighter colors. Also, cooler colors like blues, greens and violets tend to make walls recede while warm colors like red, yellows and oranges bring them forward. So if you want a space to feel smaller and more intimate, go with the warmer, darker shades.

Where is the space?

Location of the room can play into color choices as well. For example, you wouldn’t want a wildly painted formal dining room. Here you’d want something elegant and tasteful. In a play room, you’ll most likely want something light and fun. A full bathroom should be relaxed, while you may want to make the laundry room simple and clean. Bottom line is that you want the color choices to complement the space. If they don’t, it might seem awkward and put you off the room.

Do you have a color scheme?

Unfortunately throwing a random of assortment of colors together will only make the room seem haphazard and awkward, not a space you want to spend time in. To start, find a color inspiration. Perhaps it’s a certain curtain fabric or a great throw pillow. Maybe it’s the new rug you picked up for the room. Once you have your inspiration, choose colors that go together. Colors in different shades from the same family work together. So do complementary colors–colors opposite each other on the color wheel like blue and yellow.

Remember to look at the undertones too. Some have a pink undertone, some yellow, some black. These undertones subtly come through and vary the shades of different colors.

Do your walls have trim?

Maybe you’ve got chair rail or crown molding. If the walls have any sort of trim, you can paint these an accent color to increase visual interest. For example, if you choose to paint the walls a light color, painting the trim dark will make it pop. If trim runs halfway up the wall you can use the trim divider to use two different walls colors, adding even more interest to the space. For instance, paint the chair rail a neutral color, then paint the bottom half a darker shade and the top half a lighter shade of the same color. If not but you still want something that pops, make a focal wall with an accent color.

As with anything in your home, the paint colors you decide on should reflect your personal taste. Whether you are quiet and reserved or funky and outgoing, the paint on your walls should reflect you. Now that you’ve gotten these tips, go out and have some fun with color!

Posted in Home Improvement, Tips and Ideas - Tagged color, home decor, home decorating, home renovations, improving your home, interior design, paint
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

Choosing New Appliances

Jun18
2008
3 Comments Written by Carrie

Black StoveWhether you are buying a bike, a car or a house, never assume that the more expensive the product, the better the buy. Just because something costs more doesn’t mean it is the absolute best product out there!

The same goes for appliances. Many people believe that the more expensive brands look the best in their kitchen and work most effectively. However, every appliance boasts different needs and requirements, and not all of the expensive brands may suit your lifestyle.

Are you considering new kitchen appliances? After taking a look at this recent Buy Owner article, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Aside from affordability, what else do you need to consider?

  • Space: If your kitchen is fairly small in size, you may need to purchase smaller appliances. If the laundry room boasts mostly cabinet space, you may need to look for a stackable washer and dryer. Always measure the rooms before you even start your search!
  • Style: White appliances are a basic standard. However, stainless steel is a decorating a favorite. Some refrigerators even come with chalkboard doors or wood paneling that will complement cabinetry or flooring.
  • Design: For example, in regards to refrigerators, you could get a side-by-side, a freezer-on-top or a freezer-on-bottom. Each major brand features a specific look, as well. Once you know the size you need and the style that would best suit your decorating taste, it’s time to pick a design. It should not only be aesthetically pleasing to your eye, but it should suit your lifestyle. If you do not eat frozen food that often, the freezer-on-bottom refrigerator may be for you! If you tend to cook with both frozen food and fresh fruits/vegetables, then the side-by-side fridge may be your best bet.
  • Usage: Some high-end appliances showcase new digital features that might not be that easy to operate. Some of the luxury washers and dryers boast LCD touch screens that may seem confusing, even after you have read the manual. If you are not all too up-to-date on your technology, a simple, basic appliance is the one for you.
  • Maintenance: Appliances that rely heavily on electronic components will most likely have a higher repair cost than more simple models.

Amana, Kenmore, Kitchen Aid, Whirlpool, General Electric… the list goes on and on! Forget the brand names! Just follow this list of helpful tips, and you will find the most efficient and stylish appliances that suit your every want and need.

Posted in Home Improvement, Tips and Ideas - Tagged adding value, appliances, Home Improvement, home improvements, home renovations, kitchen, making your home better, new appliances, remodeling the kitchen
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

Sprucing up for Summer: Driveways

Jun16
2008
1 Comment Written by Allegra

DrivewaysNow that the weather is warming up and being outside is more pleasurable than painful, why not tackle those outdoor home tasks?

Example: Is your driveway looking a little dull and dingy? Have years of car traction taken their toll? Sounds like it’s time to renovate the driveway, and here’s how to get started.

First, you must choose what type of driveway you want. There are two: solid surface and aggregate surface. Solid surfaces are driveways made of materials like concrete or asphalt while aggregate surfaces are, for example, brick pavers or crushed rock.

When considering your options, remember to think about these things:

What’s the cost? Call local companies who install driveways for estimates.

How does the driveway react to the weather? Depending on where you live you should think about snow, rain, earthquakes, etc.

How long will the type of driveway last? You’ll want something, of course, that has a decent lifespan, but also think about how much maintenance will be required to keep it in shape and make it last as long as it possibly can.

These pros and cons may help make the decision process a tad easier.

Concrete

Pros: Durable, long-lasting, smooth surface looks clean and neat, can be decorative with different color pigments to complement the house

Cons: Takes five to seven days to cure before it can be driven on, cracking will occur over time, light colors show stains, cannot be relayered

Asphalt

Pros: Crack resistant, long-lasting, less expensive than concrete, dark driveway shows fewer stains, can be stamped for decorative purposes

Cons: Needs resealing so it doesn’t deteriorate, can’t be sealed for six-nine months after installation or it will remain soft, sealer needs two-three days of drying time before it can be driven on

Brick Pavers

Pros: Create different designs and patterns, offers a variety of shades of colors and styles, strong material

Cons: Can be prone to damage, weeds can pop up in between the cracks.

(Tip: Consider interlocking pavers to avoid a weed problem.)

Crushed Stone

Pros: Economical, no base required- just pour and spread out

Cons: Stones and gravel can scatter, ruts can develop, difficult to plow or shovel snow off of, redressing is necessary (adding more stones)

As with all home projects, the first thing to do is make a plan! Figure out a time frame and a budget. Also, research the rules for driveway renovations. Check your city regulations and be aware of the fact that some homeowners’ associations also have driveway regulations. Doing your research before beginning is a necessity. Hire a quality installer to get the best possible results. Soon you’ll be enjoying all the perks of a brand-new driveway!

Posted in Home Improvement, Tips and Ideas - Tagged curb appeal, driveways, exterior appeal, home improvements, improving your driveway, making your home nicer
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail

Should You Finish Your Basement?

Apr18
2008
2 Comments Written by Shanna

Basement RemodelAre you looking to add extra space to your home?

Are potential buyers turned off by the small size of your home’s interior? Would a finished basement help capture their attention?

There are pluses and minuses with either finished or unfinished spaces, so you’ll want to do your homework before jumping into a lengthy project. However, it makes sense that by transforming unused spaces into functional living areas, you could give your home a leg up against the competition.

Should you finish your basement? You decide.

Tip #1: Do some comparison shopping

It’s Basic Selling 101 to know your competition. Learning what your neighbors offer will give you a good idea of how your home stacks up. What asking price are similar homes in the area, with and without finished basements, going for? If the difference in price is very small, remodeling your basement may not be a worthwhile project. However, if it looks like you can reasonably expect a large return for your work, it’s worth the investment.

Of course, if you’re considering the remodel for more immediate needs-your own increased living space, for example-that should take priority over whatever statistics you find.

Tip #2: Talk with professionals

Talk with a few contractors and get quotes to find the best deal for your project. Especially if you’ll be adding a bathroom or completing other major renovations, you’ll want to find experts who can help.

Your contractor will be able to help you get a clear plan in place, take care of plumbing and electric needs and ensure the work is done to industry standards. 

Also, be aware that when you undertake a basement remodeling project, your city may require certain permits, so you’ll want to check with your local governmental authorities before beginning work.

Tip #3: Make design choices that blend with the rest of the home

If you do decide to remodel, by all means do it right. This means choosing good-quality materials that will match the rest of the home in style and design.

If the basement looks better than the other levels, buyers will wish the whole home had been redone.

If it looks worse than the other levels, having been completed with shoddy materials, buyers will know. Instead of adding value, the project will only reveal the work buyers would have to invest.

However, if the basement has been finished with the same trim, moldings, walls and doors as the rest of the interior, the basement will seem to maximize the total living space. This adds value in the mind of the buyer.

So the choice is yours:

Leave your basement unfinished, and you give buyers current storage areas, with the potential to create finished spaces in the future.

Undergo a remodeling project, and you increase your home’s living spaces for yourself and for future buyers.

Posted in Tips and Ideas - Tagged basement, construction projects, finished basement, home improvements, home remodeling, remodeling
SHARE THIS Twitter Facebook Delicious StumbleUpon E-mail
« Older Entries

About the BuyOwner.com Blog

Welcome to the BuyOwner.com Blog, your source for regularly updated market information!

Founded in 1984, BuyOwner.com® is the leading provider of real estate marketing services. We pioneered the "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) market, which today represents over 20 percent of all residential real estate transactions.

You can read more about BuyOwner.com here.

Article Archives

Buy Owner Links

  • BuyOwner.com on Facebook
  • BuyOwner.com Testimonials
  • BuyOwner.com Website
  • Twitter: Buy Owner

Blog Roll

Real Estate Top Blogs Real Estate Blogs - BlogCatalog Blog Directory Add to Technorati Favorites Find the best blogs at Blogs.com. Blog Directory Home Improvement Blog Directory

Subscribe

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Tags

31 reasons to sell with buy owner adding value to your home buying a home buying a house buy owner Buy Owner experience curb appeal decorating eco-friendly eco-friendly tips environment florida fsbo Green Living holiday home decorating Home Improvement home improvements home ownership home selling how to sell your home interior decorating interior design kitchen Market News moving real estate real estate market real estate selling real estate tips Regional Info selling selling a home selling a house selling Buy Owner selling by owner selling for sale by owner selling fsbo Selling Tips selling with buy owner selling your home spring staging using buy owner winter

EvoLve theme by Blogatize  •  Powered by WordPress BuyOwner.com Blog
Tips and info for people selling & buying their homes "Buy Owner"