Five Things That Increase the Value of Your Home

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scottsdale house photoAre you thinking about buying or selling a home in the Scottsdale area? Either way, you may be interested in finding out what can increase the value of the property. There are quite a few different things that can make a difference in the value of your home, but below, we’ve listed our top five choices that can help you either sell your home for a good price or buy the perfect home at a great value.

Location, Location, Location:  If you’re selling your home, you can’t do much about the location. However, you can be sure you talk to your realtor about mentioning convenient local attractions in the listing. If you’re looking to buy, pick something that’s not just convenient to your work or to good area schools, but also to popular attractions. For example, if you want a great home for the money, look for homes near Camelback or Papago Park for some great natural scenery and a lot of location-based value, too. Quick walking or biking to local attractions makes for a lot of resell value, too!

Update Appliances and Bathrooms:  If you’re trying to sell, replace old appliances and bathroom fixtures with new ones. Brand-new appliances will increase the value of your home significantly. If you’re buying a home, choose one with newer appliances so you know you’re getting the best value for your money.

Keep it Clean:  It may go without saying, but keeping your home clean can make a big difference in terms of its value. This will reduce the number of stains and other problem areas in and around your home. Keep the outside of the home clean, too!

Add Storage Space:  Buyers are always interested in storage space, so if you’re looking to upgrade a home you’re thinking about selling, add more storage space to make the house much more appealing. On the other hand, if you’re looking to buy a home, be sure you keep your eyes peeled for those that have plenty of storage in the first place. Later on, when you’re ready to sell, you won’t have to add as much to make it worthwhile to the next buyer.

Energy Efficiency:  Being green or at least eco-friendly is very popular in homes today, so the more upgrades you can make to improve the energy efficiency of your home, the more value it will have. Adding energy efficient windows is a great place to get started. Depending on your budget, you can take this all the way up to solar panels or just stick to improving your interior with efficient appliances and a hidden composting trash can in the kitchen.

Popular Trends in Kitchen Designs

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remodeled kitchen photoWhether you’re looking for a new home, considering selling yours, or just wanting to make an upgrade to your living space, the kitchen is a great focal point to pay close attention to. Picking kitchen design trends that are up-and-coming or have just become popular in the past couple of years is an excellent way to ensure that your kitchen is going to stay modern for as long as possible. It can be difficult to keep up with ever-changing styles and ideas, though, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any new trends that might be on the rise.

Easy-Open Cabinet:  In a modern kitchen, you can’t go wrong with automated sinks and easy-open cabinets. The more hands-free your kitchen space is, the more desirable it will be. Easy-open cabinets are mounted on hydraulics that can be opened with the push of a finger—or with your knee, hip, elbow, or whatever you’ve got free while you’re working on putting together dinner in your upscale new kitchen.

Gray Cabinets:  While starkly contrasting black and white kitchens are still popular—and probably won’t be going anywhere any time soon—gray cabinets and fully gray kitchens are starting to gain a lot of traction, too. Painting your cabinets gray and changing the color of your countertops to match can make for a beautiful uniform look throughout your kitchen. If you already have silver fixtures in place, that’s even better! Stainless steel appliances can complete this look for a truly stunning kitchen that’s sure to remain stylish for years to come.

Better Storage:  Whether you’re talking about a house, an apartment, a condo, or a townhouse, storage is key in any kitchen. No matter how small or large the kitchen space may be, the more drawers and cabinets present, the better off the whole room will become. Stacking drawers have become very popular in recent years, as have hidden cabinets and even those that may be uniquely-shaped but offer a little extra storage even so.

Wood Countertops:  Granite isn’t the only way to go anymore! For a warm and inviting texture that’s much different from the norm, wood countertops can be a beautiful addition to any kitchen. Combine them with other textures throughout the room for a contrasting design experience that’s sure to look amazing. They can look especially nice in a country style kitchen!

Farmhouse Sinks:  Last but not least, we’ve seen a recent trend toward big cast iron farmhouse sinks. They’re available in a lot of different colors to fit into just about any kitchen remodel, and they offer a lot of great benefits for any home. These sinks tend to stay in style no matter what types of trends the rest of the kitchen may follow, so if you’re looking for something timeless, you can’t go wrong with a farmhouse sink.

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Tips for Your First Year of Homeownership

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neighborhood path photoAre you a first-time homebuyer feeling more than a little confused about what you need to focus on during the first year of your home owning experience? Have you just bought a home for the first time in a long time and need a refresher on what this first year might bring? Either way, you’re in the right place! Buying a home is an exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) experience, but in the calm following the process, you may find yourself at a loss for what to do next. Should you dive right into remodeling? Should you save money? Below, we’ve listed our top 5 tips for the first year of homeownership, whether this is your first experience or you’re a pro.

Don’t Jump Right into DIY Projects
Maybe you bought your home with fun DIY projects in mind, and maybe you already know exactly what you want to get started on. Even if this is true, and even if you have plenty of money to set aside for these projects, don’t jump into them right away. Wait at least a few months before you get started on the kinds of home improvement that will take up most of your time, effort, energy, and funds. It’s best to wait at least six months, but three should do the trick as long as you’re sure you’ve got a solid budget in place.

Wait a While on Remodeling
Some professionals recommend waiting at least the first year before you worry about any remodeling in your home. Depending on your situation, this may not be practical or necessary, but you should wait at least six months until you’re settled in your new home and have decided for sure what you want to focus on with your remodeling budget. Your tastes and popular trends in home design may change quickly, so it’s best to “sleep on it” for a little while before making such big changes.

Fix Little Problems
While big projects can wait, if you notice small issues around your home, take care of them before they get out of hand. For example, if you notice your dishwasher makes a strange noise during one of its cycles or that your garbage disposal has quit working, take care of these problems as soon as possible. You never know when they could lead to something more significant that’s going to take a lot more money and time to fix.

Make a Budget
This is great advice for anyone in any situation and any walk of life, but it’s especially true for new homeowners. Make a budget and try your best to stick to it. This way, you’ll be able to put aside plenty of funds for savings that can be used at a later date to get started on those DIY projects and remodeling changes, too. And this will also mean you’ve got some extra padding in your budget for those inevitable times when a major appliance gives up without warning or a storm knocks down your fence.

Are you considering selling your home?  Get started with this free home value estimate.

Why You Should Incorporate Indoor Plants Into Your Decor

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The benefits of indoor plants are numerous.  They purify our indoor air, thanks to the process of photosynthesis, whereby they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.  As part of this photosynthesis process, plants also release moisture vapor, thereby increasing the humidity of a room.  This increased humidity is a boon for those with respiratory issues such as allergies, sore throats and dry coughs.  Plants also remove air-borne toxins from the air, including up to 87% of volatile organic compounds (VOCS) every 24 hours, according to research by NASA.  For these air purification results, consider using up to 15-18 plants in 6 to 8-inch diameter pots for a house of average size (1,800 square feet).  The goal is one larger-size plant every 100-square feet or two smaller plants (in 4 to 5 inch pots).

Now, which plants should you incorporate into your home décor?  Given that many people claim to not have a green thumb, here are some plants that are considered to be pretty indestructible, as they don’t require a lot of care and maintenance.  The Corn Plant is a beautiful specimen that thrives in low-light areas, and are perfect for the corners of a room.  They can grow up to six feet tall, so they are perfect for adding height and dimension to any room.

Another easy-care plant is the Pothos.  This plant works best sitting on a taller ledge or shelf as they feature trailing vines.  When the vines get too long for your liking, just trim them and put the clippings in a glass of water to root for future repotting.  The Maranta (or Prayer Plant) is a beautiful plant with bold patterns interspersed with red leaves.  This plant does best in a pot on a lower table.

The Jade plant is a succulent that is right on trend this year, with succulent plants being all of the rage in design quarters.  This plant is very fast-growing and hardy.  The Snake Plant is one of the easiest, low-maintenance plants as it doesn’t require replanting from its original pot.  Just place in a decorative basket or pot (after lining it to capture water), and you’re ready to enjoy this plant that will add drama to any room.

Chris & Cheryl Park, REALTORS® – Scottsdale and surrounding areas experts.

The Importance of Landscape Design

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Your home’s curb appeal is the initial advertisement of the home for potential buyers.  After viewing your home on the Internet, potential buyers will then drive by your home.  Implementing a landscape design that will work with the style of your home, the climate and your existing lawn maintenance system is critical to your home-selling success.

curb appeal photoTaking a few simple steps to update and maintain your home’s exterior will invite potential home buyers to come closer to check out all that your home has to offer.  First, take a closer look at your front yard’s landscaping.  Nothing says deferred maintenance like a desert landscape riddled with weeds and overgrown trees.  Pruning and trimming all trees and shrubs will allow potential buyers to actually see your home, and will also demonstrate that the current homeowners care about their property, which is a good sign.   Placing fresh flowers or desert plants in pots near your walkway or front door is also another quick and inexpensive step to freshen up your home’s exterior and landscape.

If you live in a neighborhood where the HOA dictates your landscaping, be sure to take a look at those requirements before listing your home for sale.  For example, DC Ranch requires a certain number and types of plants, trees and bushes.  If any of those die and aren’t replaced, the sale of your home will be held up until they are replanted.  If you don’t have an HOA that requires this to be done, then be sure the plants, trees and bushes are all in good health and are connected to a working drip system or sprinkler system.  These systems will be examined during any home inspection so it’s important that they are in good working order before you list your home for sale.

As your realtors, we can give you more specific advice unique to your home and situation to help you maximize your home’s potential in these areas.  Contact Us!

Save Money With These Home Energy Conservation Tips

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Whether you are listing your home for sale, or seeking to update your current home, environmentally friendly features are updates that will only increase the value of your home.  One simple step to go green is to replace your older appliances with energy-efficient versions.  Appliances with the Energy Star certification are 10-50% more efficient, on average, than traditional appliances.  Energy Star refrigerators, for example, use 40% less energy than refrigerators produced in 2001, for example. And, while you are updating these appliances, make sure they are stainless steel (silver, black or slate are all on trend and will stay on trend for years to come).  Motion sensor light switches in all bathrooms and closets are another easy way to update your home while increasing both the value and the efficient use of energy.

Another quick way to go green is to install a digital thermostat.  These new thermostats are programmable, have no moving parts (thus need no repair), and they increase the efficiency of the energy used to heat and cool your home, which is better for the environment, and your wallet. Water is another area in which conservation is key.  Low-flow showerheads, faucets and toilets are all easy ways to reduce the amount of water used in everyday life.  Drinking water is another area where a small investment can pay big dividends for the environment.   Water filtration systems such as reverse-osmosis will eliminate reliance on wasteful plastic bottles and containers, and will reduce one’s carbon footprint.  These systems will also be touted as an upgrade if you do decide to put your home on the market.

Finally, whether you are painting your home to prep it for sale, or freshening up the paint in your current residence, low or no VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint is an easy way to reduce the toxicity of your environment.  The EPA has determined that inside air is 3-5 times more toxic than outdoor air, thanks to the toxic compounds in paint and finishes in your home.  Low or no VOC paint is also beneficial for health reasons, and people with allergies or sensitivities to chemicals will also appreciate these paints.

The real estate market is hot this spring!  Are you considering selling your home? Get started with this free HOME VALUE ESTIMATE.

Trends in Tile Flooring in 2017

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Whether you are thinking about selling your home, or just want to update your current home, taking a look at current trends in tile flooring is a great way to make sure your home is updated and on par with today’s trends and styles. Tile is a perennially popular option for flooring thanks to it being so low maintenance. From pet owners to parents to allergy sufferers, everyone loves tile floors for bathrooms and kitchens, and often throughout the home.

wood tile photoOne major design trend in tile flooring is the wood-look plank style flooring that can be seen all over design blogs, in home improvement stores and on HGTV home design shows. These tile planks come in a wide range of colors, textures and sizes. While most of these tiles do mimic the look of wood floors very well, be careful if you venture into lower price ranges as some of these tiles tend to look too busy and “plastic”. Also, try to avoid larger or wider grout lines, as these detract from the wood look you will desire. The way these tiles are laid is also important, as the way they are set can convey a variety of styles from rustic to modern.

Another tile trend is the use of more modern larger format tiles, such as 24 x 24 inches. No longer do homeowners want or desire smaller 12 x 12 tiles, as the larger the better. These larger tiles tend to make rooms look larger and more open. Other larger tile sizes are 12 x 24 tiles. These can be laid in a brick pattern or laid straight, either of which will modernize a room. Some homeowners are mixing sizes of tiles, but be careful here as a busy pattern on the tile mixed with a varied size of tile may not result in the look you desire.

Finally, consider the color of tile when you are narrowing down the tile options. Beiges and browns are still on trend, and are staying the course with classic, traditional looks as well as more modern looks as they are a perfect neutral. But gray tiles in both warm and cool tones are absolutely on trend as well. Gray is currently the “it” color in the design world, and paired with a more traditional tile style, should stay the course of design trends should you desire to sell your home down the road. I’d be happy to share my opinions in this regard.

Are you considering selling your home?  Get started with a free home value estimate.

How To Quickly Update Tuscan Style Homes

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Tuscan home photoIn the early 2000s, home decorators heavily installed and implemented uber-popular Tuscan décor in their clients’ homes.  This style is represented by dark wood furniture, rich fabrics, gold and darker brown color schemes, and intricate ironwork.  While this style is still arguably beautiful, and works in some homes, in many homes, Tuscan style appears outdated.  Simply put, most buyers today aren’t drawn toward the more formal, darker and heavier style that goes hand in hand with Tuscan décor.

So, if you’re currently living in a Tuscan-style home, but want to broaden the appeal of your home to prospective buyers, you may want to consider some of these tips to tone down the Tuscan décor.  First, consider repainting your walls and trim, especially if they are in a gold tone with dark trim.  Simply applying fresh paint in a lighter taupe or gray-beige, and bright white or even creamy ivory on the trim, will go a long way toward brightening and updating your home.   Carrying this light and bright paint color through to your kitchen cabinets (if they’re a dark wood) will also help to update your home’s style.

Another simple way to convert your Tuscan-style décor to a more modern look that appeals to the majority of home buyers is to swap out your décor, such as bedding, curtains and throw pillows.  Replacing any tapestry or dark-colored fabrics with simple, light colored fabrics with minimal design will help update your home’s look instantly.  Lampshades are another inexpensive way to update your home’s look; simply replacing a more ornate lampshade with an unadorned drum shade, even if the base is in a heavier Tuscan style will do wonders.

Finally, with regard to your Tuscan-style home’s fixtures, consider swapping out any heavier iron or bronze lighting fixtures and faucets with lighter brushed nickel or even brushed gold fixtures to update your home’s look.  I’d be happy to walk through your home to give you guidance on how to accomplish this transition from Tuscan to updated.

Are you considering selling your home?  Get started with a free Home Value Estimate.

Epoxy Flooring – Is it Worth it?

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One of the many upgrades or updates that is important when you list your home for sale is whether the garage has epoxy flooring.  Many buyers find this feature to be a definite plus when they are looking for homes.  This is due to its durability, its ease of maintenance and for its good looks.  But, as a homeowner, should you bother to have it installed if it’s good for resale?

Sibbach Scottsdale home photoThere is no right answer to this question.  If you are planning on staying in your home for a while, and you think it will improve the quality of your day-to-day life, by all means, pull the trigger.  If you want to boost the value of your home, be sure to consult with me or another agent to make sure it makes financial sense to your bottom line.

Epoxy floors have come a long way, just in the past few years.  There are even more color options, as well as different types of special effects such as metallic and 3-D effects.  Epoxy flooring isn’t limited to garages, as even screened porches, laundry rooms or hallways can be quickly updated with a coating of epoxy.  Epoxy is installed over concrete, and results in a protective surface that is impervious to stains and moisture.

If your home is being built, definitely ask your new home builder to install it before you move in.  Otherwise, there are dozens of after-market installers in the Valley of the Sun.  If you consider yourself to be the handy type, consider installing it yourself to save money.  Whichever way you go if it’s not a new build, doing the prep work yourself will save costs.  The concrete slab needs to be prepared before the epoxy is applied: grinding or acid-washing the slab are two common ways of insuring the concrete is clean and free of contaminants.  Making sure the concrete is bone-dry is the very last step before install.

Are you considering selling your home?  Get started with a getting a free no-obligation home value estimate.  

Citrus Trees in the Desert

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Most citrus trees do very well in the desert landscape and environment here in metropolitan Phoenix, and will often yield sufficient fruit for you, as well as all of your neighbors.  However, some varieties of citrus grow better than others given the hot summers here in the Valley of the Sun.

lemon tree photoDifferent types of citrus trees grow at different rates, and sweeter fruit grow slower than less sweet fruit.  Which is why you’ll often see an overabundance of lemons.   Valencia oranges and Arizona Sweets are more hardy than navel or blood orange trees.  Most citrus trees need to be five to six years old before they start producing a generous crop of fruit.

The care and maintenance of citrus trees isn’t complicated, but is very important.  First, citrus trees really aren’t trees, but are bushes that are trimmed to look like trees.  If they are left to their own devices, they grow big and bushy, and will produce more and better quality fruit.  But for aesthetic reasons, citrus trees are pruned to look like trees.  Another interesting fact about citrus trees in Arizona is that because they are pruned and their trunks are exposed, they are at risk for sunburn.  Therefore, the trunks of citrus trees in Arizona are often painted white for protection against sun damage (which cuts off the flow of nutrients and water to the tree).  There’s a fact with which you can impress out-of-state visitors!

The feeding and watering of citrus trees is critical to producing a higher yield of fruit.  A high-nitrogen fertilizer three times a year plus generous watering throughout the year are requirements or citrus trees.  Citrus trees require several hundred gallons of water about twice a week in the summer months.  If you are interested in conserving water, a dwarf citrus tree or a smaller container citrus tree will be perfect for your needs.

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