Elevate Your Home for Summer: DIY Projects and Decor Tips
Top 5 Home Renovations with the Best Return on Investment
Well-planned home renovations can really enhance your home’s appeal and amp up its price when it’s time to sell. But not all improvements bring a hefty return on investment (ROI). Knowing the most promising updates can help strategize your revamping efforts for an attractive sale. Read on for a rundown of the top five home improvements likely to supercharge your property’s resale value.
Kitchen Upgrades
A modern, functional kitchen can impress prospective buyers and significantly boost your resale value. But a complete remodel isn’t always necessary when you’re looking for a sizable ROI. If your kitchen already has a good layout, work with what you have and make strategic changes. Key renovations to consider include new countertops, an updated backsplash, a fresh coat of paint, and high-end appliances. Need some swoon-worthy inspiration to get you in the mood? These kitchen updates will make you want to start taking notes and making plans.
Bathroom Remodels
Bathroom updates are next on the list of top ROI home renovations. Your efforts here can range from replacing dated fixtures to a more comprehensive refresh, including a new soaking tub or a sleek walk-in shower. But before you pencil in a new skylight and heated floor tiles, consider every tweak’s necessity and potential upside, as bathroom work – like kitchen updates – can quickly become expensive. But if you can invest more in this space, you’ll likely see significant returns.
Hardwood Flooring
There’s no question about it – adding or refinishing lackluster hardwood flooring can significantly enhance the value of your home. This type of flooring offers a timeless look that harmoniously blends with various design styles, from boho chic to classic elegance. Besides their aesthetic charm, hardwood floors are sturdy, easy to clean and healthier due to the absence of trapped allergens often found in carpets. Buyers are consistently willing to pay more for a house with hardwood, making this upgrade a wise choice if you can swing it. How much will wood floors cost you? It all depends on the size of your rooms, the style you choose and the tree species.
Eco-Friendly Improvements
Energy-conscious renovations have been in vogue for a while now. An energy-efficient home attracts a broad range of buyers and contributes to a greener, healthier environment for everyone. Energy-saving windows, LED lighting, Energy Star-certified appliances, higher-rated insulation, an updated HVAC system and solar panels can offer a higher selling price point and significant cost savings for the homeowner.
Adding an extra room or an outdoor living space
Expanding your total livable space can add considerable worth to your home, whether it’s a finished basement, attic or flex space. An additional bedroom or an office are always in demand, especially in this work-from-home era. If expanding indoors isn’t feasible, transform your outdoor area into a relaxing second living room. A deck or patio can be an enticing bonus for buyers looking for more usable square footage at the property. Swanky garage conversions can also provide extra room year-round with unique appeal.
The right home upgrades can substantially increase your property’s value. However, balancing your renovation budget with the prospective benefits is crucial. In addition to this list, research your market and pay attention to what features the top-selling homes in your area offer. Consulting a real estate professional can also help you make informed decisions and optimize your home renovations for the best ROI.
Source: Top 5 Home Renovations with the Best Return on Investment by Michelle Abendschan
Elevate Your Home’s First Impression
When making a lasting impact, your home’s curb appeal is the first thing that catches the eye. Whether you’re looking to sell or want to enjoy a welcoming entrance this spring, these tips will help you spruce up the exterior charm of your home.
A Splash of Color Matters
A simple touch can make a huge impact. One of the quickest ways to freshen up a space is to introduce a bold or complementary color for the exterior palette. You could be trendy and add a splash of Upward, Sherwin Williams 2024, color of the year to your front door or include accents to infuse pops of pizazz.
Lush Greenery for the Win
Don’t underestimate the power of greenery and well-maintained landscaping. Plant colorful flowers, trim overgrown bushes and add potted plants to create a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. Additionally, placing hanging window box planters is a great way to create a visual separation for more intimate outdoor areas.
Lighting Sets the Mood
Illuminate your entryway with stylish outdoor lighting fixtures to add sophistication and create a warm nighttime ambiance. From the garden and pathways to water features and strategically placed motion wall lights, there are so many ways you could spark a mesmerizing allure after the sun goes down.
Upgrade Your Mailbox Game
Your mailbox can express your home’s personality, and replacing it with a stylish one that complements your home’s architecture can make a big difference. From revamping the materials of the post to granite, brick masonry or tree-branch wood to surrounding it with planters or lighting, the mailbox opportunities are endless.
Statement House Numbers
Prominent, easy-to-read house numbers in a style that aligns with your home’s aesthetic can add a touch of personality. Consider different materials, placements and surrounding finishes when deciding what will work with your home’s unique architectural style.
Clean and Tidy Walkways
Pressure-wash your entry paths, repair cracks or add decorative stones for an extra expression of inviting elegance. It may seem daunting, so prioritize must-fix and mostly seen spaces. Also, you should consider walking through your property to make a list of the areas that need a little TLC.
Charming Furniture and Décor
Create a cozy outdoor space with a bench or welcoming lounge chair to make your home stand out. Whether it is on your porch or backyard patio, you’ll want to consider its durability against weather and comfort. You can extend your living space to a beautiful nature-centered oasis.
Front Porch Appeal
A great way to weave in a creative flair that sets the tone for the interior is to extend décor to the front porch. Add cushions, throws, a decorative wreath or monograms to establish an inviting ambiance.
The little details make the difference – let your home’s outdoor space shine.
Source: Elevate Your Home’s First Impression by Kimberly Quevedo
Eight Steps for Buying Your First Home
Welcome to one of life’s great adventures: buying your first home! This journey is not just about brick and mortar – it’s about creating a sanctuary for new memories, a haven of comfort and the key to your future. These eight steps will help set you on a path for success.
1. Do Your Research
Diving deep into housing market research is a step you simply can’t skip. This preparatory phase involves taking a close look at current market trends, assessing home values in your desired neighborhoods and gauging local supply and demand. Understanding interest rate trends and the economic health of your target area is also important. Remember that knowledge is power – it’s essential to making informed decisions with confidence and clarity.
2. Set Your Budget
When buying your first home, getting a handle on your finances is crucial. It helps you manage your expectations, ease any stress you may be feeling and narrow down your home search. A great starting point is to get a mortgage preapproval – it’s like having a golden ticket to the home buying theater. It tells sellers you mean business and, more importantly, tells you how much you can actually afford.
3. Craft Your Wish List
You’ve probably been dreaming of your first home for a while, and now is the time to map out your “must-haves” versus your “nice-to-haves.” You can start by asking the right questions: How many bedrooms do I really need? Is a home office necessary? Do I want a big yard or is a cozy balcony enough outdoor space? Knowing your non-negotiables will help you steer clear of beautiful distractions that might not fit your lifestyle or budget.
4. Choose Your Location
As the saying goes, it’s all about location. But what does that even mean? It’s more than just a spot on the map. It’s about the community, local schools, commute times and even the home’s future value. To get into a new home that you’ll love, focus down to three neighborhoods while considering their projected market trends in case you ever want to sell.
5. Work With a Real Estate Agent
From local market expertise and financing to legal requirements and negotiation, a good real estate agent can guide you through every step of the home buying process. A specialist in your chosen areas can alert you to available properties as soon as they hit the market, giving you a jump-start on the competition. Many federal and state assistance programs are also available to first-time buyers, essential information your agent can provide for you.
6. Start Viewing Homes
With your wish list in one hand and your preapproval letter in the other, it’s time to check out your options in person. You should attend plenty of open houses and ask your agent to pull back the curtain on any home that sparks your interest. Once you find that perfect property, your real estate agent is your #1 ally, helping you craft an offer that’s enticing to the seller yet protects your interests – especially in competitive markets.
7. Schedule the Home Inspection
This is another important step that your agent can help facilitate. After your offer has been accepted, a thorough property inspection will give you a clear understanding of the home’s condition. If any hidden issues are revealed, your agent can negotiate repairs or adjust the offer before you make your final decision.
8. Close the Deal
As you come down the final stretch, your real estate agent will help you navigate all the paperwork and legal considerations. Make sure you understand your obligations and ask questions if you need clarification. Once you’ve signed on the dotted line, swapped out that preapproval for a mortgage and handed over the down payment, congratulations – you’re a home owner!
Your first home is more than just a piece of real estate; it’s the cozy embrace at the end of a long day, the gathering spot for friends and family and the foundation upon which you’ll build your dreams. Unwrap the joy, embrace the journey and open the door to an exciting future.
Source: Eight Steps for Buying Your First Home by Carma Stahnke
Make Your Move Before School Starts
Are you thinking of getting a fresh start in a new home before the back-to-school rush? You’re not alone – and it’s totally doable! With help from a savvy real estate agent, you can navigate the selling and buying process, secure favorable terms and snag the front door keys just in time for the start of the school year. Here’s how to make it happen.
Real Estate Market Considerations
Spring and summer tend to steal the spotlight for buying and selling, and with good reason. Starting your search now offers a broader selection of properties, a big pool of potential buyers and it perfectly aligns with finalizing your move during the summer break. Your real estate agent will be able to break down all the crucial local info for you – available listings, price comparisons, median home costs and how long most properties are on the market.
Evaluate Your Finances
A clear understanding of your financial situation is vital when doing anything in the real estate market. It influences the type and location of your next home and whether you should sell your current home before purchasing another. Another first step is working with a trusted lender to explore your loan options and solidify your budget. Plus, a realistic and accurate assessment of your finances can lower some of that moving stress and help guide your decision-making process.
Start to Organize
Moving can seem daunting, but it can be a relatively smooth process with the right approach. Start by decluttering your current space – sell, donate or dispose of items you no longer need. This will reduce the things you need to pack up while also prepping your home to be listed. As the move gets closer, invest in quality moving supplies like sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap and permanent markers for labeling. And if you like making checklists and crossing off to-do’s, this is your time to shine!
List Your Home For Sale
When you’re ready to put your current home up for sale, give it a walk-through and identify any necessary repairs or enhancements needed. With some assistance from your agent, you can access a network of reliable service providers and professionals who can assist with any fixes or improvements outside the scope of a DIY weekend. You should also prepare your home to appeal to a broad range of buyers through updated staging and professional photography to maximize its visibility and attractiveness.
Find Your New Home
Begin your home search by creating a wish list and ranking the key features that you consider must-haves. Check out the listings on coldwellbankerpreferredrealestate.ca and other online sources, and then visit potential homes in person. As you explore different spaces, ask yourself if you can picture your family living there. Does the kitchen have all the counter space you’re looking for? Is there a big backyard for a garden and a play area? Maybe you want a low-maintenance yard and space for hobbies and storing sports equipment. But remember, things can move quickly in the spring and summer, so when you find the one, be prepared to make an offer.
Yes, you can make your move before school starts! It takes some planning and determination, but it’s well worth the effort. Establish your timeline, partner with a local real estate agent, put together a plan and unpack in your new home before the kids start next fall.
Source: Make Your Move Before School Starts by Michelle Abendschan
Stay Cool and Save: Energy-Saving Tips for a Sustainable Summer
Summer Home Prep Made Easy
Summertime is just around the corner! Whether you’re planning backyard barbecues, lounging in the sun or staying cool indoors, a little proactive summer home preparation can go a long way in ensuring your abode is ready for the season.
Rejuvenate Your Home Exterior
Tackle your outdoor space by giving your patio or deck a good scrub or sweep, clearing any weather debris. Then, look at your furniture and freshen it up by incorporating patio umbrellas to add a touch of shade for when the sun’s heat is too much. Also, don’t forget to give your grill some attention – from checking the ignition, propane tank, charcoal basin or your stock supply, you’ll want to make sure everything is up and running for food, fun and fresh air. Lastly, set the ambiance and add strategically placed lights for evening get-togethers.
Beat the Summer Heat Indoors
As temperatures rise, keeping your home regulated is a top priority. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-placed ceiling fan – consider installing one in your main living space to circulate air and create a breeze. Additionally, a programmable thermostat can help regulate the temperature indoors. You could also install ceramic or reflective window films, allowing you to enjoy the natural light while reducing heat and harmful UV rays coming into your home. And now is the perfect time to check your air conditioning unit before it gets too hot. Replace filters and thoroughly clean and test the unit to ensure it is in proper working order when you need it most.
Create a Summer-Esque Ambiance
Embrace the season and nature by adding plants or flowers to your living spaces. From lush greenery to vibrant blooms, summer foliage can add a pop of color and life to your décor. Better yet, the flora can set the tone for a relaxed, chill vibe. While you’re at it, consider adding yellow, blue and green summer hues to your interior design through seasonal pillows, rugs or artwork to uplift the mood of any room.
Repel Seasonal Bugs
Summer pests can quickly become unwelcome guests inside your home. These sneaky critters have a knack for finding their way in, but you can keep them out by sealing any cracks or gaps around doors and windows by caulking or weatherstripping openings. Also, you could invest in some window screens to allow the summer breeze to flow indoors while keeping the bugs out. And for your summer outdoor relaxation or gatherings, citronella candles or torches can help repel mosquitoes and other insects while adding a cozy ambiance.
With some elbow grease and a splash of creativity, you’ll have your home primed for the summer season so you can kick back, invite friends over, crank up the grill and let the good times roll.
Why Spring Is the Best Time to Buy a Home
Spring is widely recognized as the best time to buy a home, and it’s not hard to see why. The season is all about fresh starts and new beginnings, which feels just right when you’re about to make a big decision like purchasing a new home. Learn why now could be the right time to find the perfect place to call your own.
Market Reset and Increased Inventory in Spring
Spring marks the beginning of what is traditionally the busiest period in the real estate market. And after a few years of unpredictable market conditions, Money Magazine anticipates that 2024 could bring a much-needed real estate reset. With economies stabilizing and people adjusting well to post-pandemic lifestyles, the housing market is expected to reflect a more typical bustling season. This influx of listings increases your choices, giving you a better chance of finding a home that fits your exact needs and wants.
The Advantage of Clear Property Evaluations
Winter weather can hide many imperfections, from roofing issues to landscaping woes. As that weather recedes, getting a clear, unobstructed view of each property is easier. The return of milder temps also allows for a thorough inspection of the home’s exterior, including the condition of the paint, gutters, roofing and siding. As we move into the warmer months, you’ll also get a good peek at the property’s yard and landscaping – a big deal for many buyers. Seeing the full outdoor potential can really paint a picture of what’s to come, helping you dream up all the fantastic possibilities for your future garden or outdoor oasis.
Optimal Timing for Families
Buying a home in the spring is strategically sound for families with children. It aligns with the academic calendar, allowing families to relocate and settle in before the start of the new school year. This timing eases transitions for children and adults alike, providing the summer months to adjust to a new neighborhood, get all those new home tasks complete, make new friends and prepare for any school or work changes that come with moving.
Negotiation Opportunities
With the spring market’s rush of activity, there’s a unique push and pull that benefits savvy negotiators. Sellers looking to bounce back from the slower winter months are generally more open to discussions, and buyers are eager to purchase and settle in by summer. This mutual motivation can smooth the path to negotiations, potentially tipping the scales in favor of buyers looking for a good deal.
Spring Shows a Neighborhood’s Character
Milder weather not only revives trees and gardens but also community life. This uptick in activity can give potential buyers a true feel for the neighborhood’s character and lifestyle. Are the streets filled with playing children or is it a quiet, more reserved community? Is the neighborhood buzzing with local events and gatherings? Viewing a neighborhood in the spring can provide a clearer picture of daily life there. So when you visit an open house, be sure get a feel for the whole area.
While the best time to buy a home is when you’re financially and emotionally ready, March, April and May offer some unique advantages that can enhance the home-buying experience. Increased inventory, the ability to conduct thorough property evaluations, timing that suits family needs, favorable mortgage rates and negotiation potential all make spring an ideal time to take the plunge, whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced buyer looking to find the perfect setting for your next chapter.
Source: Why Spring Is the Best Time to Buy a Home by Michelle Abendschan
Simple Steps for a Greener Home Lifestyle
Ready to channel your inner eco-warrior? Give your home lifestyle a green makeover with a few simple tweaks and turn your humble abode into a sustainability superstar.
Set the Tone With Lighting
To begin transforming your home to a green lifestyle, start by examining the way your home is lit. Embrace natural light whenever possible by adding curtains that let you control the brightness. And when it comes to light bulbs, switch to energy-efficient LEDs. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in reducing your carbon footprint.
Use Eco-Friendly Alternatives
There are many opportunities where you can swap out environment-harming products for planet-friendly options. Begin by replacing cleaning materials with ones made with plant-based ingredients. Then, seek ways to reduce waste by opting for reusable items and say goodbye to single-use plastics by replacing them with stainless-steel alternatives. Additionally, when upgrading furniture or appliances, consider energy-efficiency and recycled or reclaimed options to add style and sustainability to your space.
Incorporate Sustainable Practices
Create a home environment in harmony with nature by implementing environmentally friendly practices. Establish conservation policies to reduce waste and water usage – and make composting a part of your daily routine. Also, don’t forget about your outdoor space – plant native species in your garden to support local ecosystems and reduce your carbon footprint.
Maximize Energy Efficiency in Your Home
Take your commitment to sustainability further by investing in programmable thermostats to regulate heating and cooling, sealing gaps and cracks to prevent energy loss and installing solar panels to harness renewable energy. By reducing your energy consumption, you’re saving money and helping to protect the planet.
Every day offers a moment to be an eco-champion. With these minor changes in your home and daily lifestyle habits, you’re well on your way to a greener future!
Source: Simple Steps for a Greener Home Lifestyle by Kimberly Quevedo
Buyer Timeline: Navigating the Journey to Your New Home
Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting adventure, but one that often comes with a myriad of questions. Among the most common inquiries is the timeline for buying a home. How long does it really take to transition from the initial contemplation to the proud moment of unlocking your new front door? In this blog post, we will decode the buyer timeline, offering insights into the various stages of the home-buying process.
Stage 1: Preliminary Preparation
1.1 Researching Your Options (1-3 Months):
- Before diving into the market, take time to research neighbourhoods, property types, and your budget. This phase typically lasts between one to three months, depending on your familiarity with the market.
1.2 Financial Preparation (1-2 Months):
- Assessing your financial readiness is crucial. This stage involves reviewing your credit, saving for a down payment, and getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Allocate one to two months for this preparatory phase.
Stage 2: Home Search
2.1 Engaging a Realtor (1-2 Weeks):
- Selecting a knowledgeable realtor is a vital step. Once chosen, this professional will help streamline your search, saving you valuable time.
2.2 Property Tours and Decision-making (2-3 Months):
- The duration of your home search depends on factors like market conditions and your specific requirements. On average, allocate two to three months for property tours and finalizing your choice.
Stage 3: Offer and Negotiation
3.1 Making an Offer (1-2 Weeks):
- After finding your dream home, the process of making an offer typically takes one to two weeks. This includes negotiating terms and reaching an agreement with the seller.
Stage 4: Closing
4.1 Loan Processing and Underwriting (3-5 Weeks):
- Once your offer is accepted, the mortgage process begins. This phase, which involves loan processing and underwriting, can take three to five weeks.
4.2 Home Inspection and Appraisal (2-4 Weeks):
- Scheduling a home inspection and obtaining an appraisal are crucial steps in the closing process. Allocate two to four weeks for these assessments.
4.3 Closing (1-2 Days):
- The actual closing typically takes a day or two. During this time, you’ll sign the necessary paperwork, transfer funds, and officially become a homeowner.
Understanding the buyer timeline is essential for managing expectations and planning accordingly. While the above breakdown provides a general overview, it’s crucial to note that individual circumstances, market conditions, and unforeseen events can influence the timeline. Partnering with a knowledgeable realtor can significantly streamline the process, ensuring a smoother and more efficient journey to homeownership.