Create in-wall storage by knocking out the drywall and exposing the studs.
ASK me for more ideas!
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Bathroom remodel ideas
It’s not always practical, or affordable, to spend a lot of money on a big bathroom remodel. With these DIY tips and simple remodeling ideas, you can save on costs to make the project much more affordable
Create in-wall storage by knocking out the drywall and exposing the studs.
ASK me for more ideas!
Create in-wall storage by knocking out the drywall and exposing the studs.
ASK me for more ideas!
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Real Estate questions? Call me
Lisa Bear
Direct: 262-893-5555
Broker/Owner
357 W Wisconsin Ave
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Office: 262-567-2455
Connect With Me
If you have Family, Friends or Neighbors that are considering buying a new home or selling their existing please have them contact me. I appreciate referrals!
Monday, April 27, 2015
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Monday, April 20, 2015
Saturday, April 18, 2015
8 Tips for Finding Your New Home
8 Tips for Finding Your New Home
A solid game plan can help you narrow your home buying search to find the best home for you.
House hunting is just like any other shopping expedition. If you identify exactly what you want and do some research, you’ll zoom in on the home you want at the best price. These eight tips will guide you through a smart home buying process.
1. Know thyself.
Understand the type of home that suits your personality. Do you prefer a new or existing home? A ranch or a multistory home? If you’re leaning toward a fixer-upper, are you truly handy, or will you need to budget for contractors?
2. Research before you look.
List the features you most want in a home and identify which are necessities and which are extras. Identify three to four neighborhoods you’d like to live in based on commute time, schools, recreation, crime, and price. Then hop onto REALTOR.com to get a feel for the homes available in your price range in your favorite neighborhoods. Use the results to prioritize your wants and needs so you can add in and weed out properties from the inventory you’d like to view.
3. Get your finances in order.
Generally, lenders say you can afford a home priced two to three times your gross income. Create a budget so you know how much you’re comfortable spending each month on housing. Don’t wait until you’ve found a home and made an offer to investigate financing.
Gather your financial records and meet with a lender to get a prequalification letter spelling out how much you’re eligible to borrow. The lender won’t necessarily consider the extra fees you’ll pay when you purchase or your plans to begin a family or purchase a new car, so shop in a price range you’re comfortable with. Also, presenting an offer contingent on financing will make your bid less attractive to sellers.
Gather your financial records and meet with a lender to get a prequalification letter spelling out how much you’re eligible to borrow. The lender won’t necessarily consider the extra fees you’ll pay when you purchase or your plans to begin a family or purchase a new car, so shop in a price range you’re comfortable with. Also, presenting an offer contingent on financing will make your bid less attractive to sellers.
4. Set a moving timeline.
Do you have blemishes on your credit that will take time to clear up? If you already own, have you sold your current home? If not, you’ll need to factor in the time needed to sell. If you rent, when is your lease up? Do you expect interest rates to jump anytime soon? All these factors will affect your buying, closing, and moving timelines.
5. Think long term.
Your future plans may dictate the type of home you’ll buy. Are you looking for a starter house with plans to move up in a few years, or do you hope to stay in the home for five to 10 years? With a starter, you may need to adjust your expectations. If you plan to nest, be sure your priority list helps you identify a home you’ll still love years from now.
6. Work with a REALTOR®.
Ask people you trust for referrals to a real estate professional they trust. Interview agents to determine which have expertise in the neighborhoods and type of homes you’re interested in. Because homebuying triggers many emotions, consider whether an agent’s style meshes with your personality.
Also ask if the agent specializes in buyer representation. Unlike listing agents, whose first duty is to the seller, buyers’ reps work only for you even though they’re typically paid by the seller. Finally, check whether agents are REALTORS®, which means they’re members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. NAR has been a champion of homeownership rights for more than a century.
Also ask if the agent specializes in buyer representation. Unlike listing agents, whose first duty is to the seller, buyers’ reps work only for you even though they’re typically paid by the seller. Finally, check whether agents are REALTORS®, which means they’re members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. NAR has been a champion of homeownership rights for more than a century.
7. Be realistic.
It’s OK to be picky about the home and neighborhood you want, but don’t be close-minded, unrealistic, or blinded by minor imperfections. If you insist on living in a cul-de-sac, you may miss out on great homes on streets that are just as quiet and secluded.
On the flip side, don’t be so swayed by a “wow” feature that you forget about other issues -- like noise levels -- that can have a big impact on your quality of life. Use your priority list to evaluate each property, remembering there’s no such thing as the perfect home.
On the flip side, don’t be so swayed by a “wow” feature that you forget about other issues -- like noise levels -- that can have a big impact on your quality of life. Use your priority list to evaluate each property, remembering there’s no such thing as the perfect home.
8. Limit the opinions you solicit.
It’s natural to seek reassurance when making a big financial decision. But you know that saying about too many cooks in the kitchen. If you need a second opinion, select one or two people. But remain true to your list of wants and needs so the final decision is based on criteria you’ve identified as important.
Friday, April 17, 2015
Baby boomers are upsizing, not downsizing, study shows
Posted: 09 Mar 2015 09:50 PM PDT
A recent study by Bank of America Merrill Lynch found that nearly one-third of Baby Boomers and seniors are choosing to buy larger homes in retirement instead of downsizing.
Photo Credit: dandooo via Compfight cc
The report seems to point to an interest in larger homes, specifically those that have extra bedrooms. One-third of retirees surveyed say a top reason they wanted to upsize was to have a home large enough for family members to visit. When adult children, grandchildren, and other family members are scattered around the country, the homes of retirees tend to function as a meeting place for extended families, particularly during holidays or summer vacations.
Some retirees may be looking for something more than just a guest bedroom, however. The multigenerational household trend is evident in the study, with one in six (16 percent) retirees saying they have a “boomerang” adult child who has moved back in.
Only 51 percent of those surveyed actually did downsize, citing greater financial freedom (64 percent) and lowered maintenance duties (44 percent) among their top reasons for doing so. The remaining 19 percent moved to a similarly-sized home.
The study also underscored the importance of keeping a close eye on this population segment, noting that while growth in the number of households across all other age groups will be less than 2 million, the number of age 65+ households in the U.S. will increase by nearly 11 million.
“How and where our nation’s aging population chooses to live will have widespread implications on the way homes are designed, the resources people will need, and how communities and businesses nationwide should prepare,” says Andy Sieg, head of Global Wealth and Retirement Solutions for Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
Photo Credit: dandooo via Compfight cc
The report seems to point to an interest in larger homes, specifically those that have extra bedrooms. One-third of retirees surveyed say a top reason they wanted to upsize was to have a home large enough for family members to visit. When adult children, grandchildren, and other family members are scattered around the country, the homes of retirees tend to function as a meeting place for extended families, particularly during holidays or summer vacations.
Some retirees may be looking for something more than just a guest bedroom, however. The multigenerational household trend is evident in the study, with one in six (16 percent) retirees saying they have a “boomerang” adult child who has moved back in.
Only 51 percent of those surveyed actually did downsize, citing greater financial freedom (64 percent) and lowered maintenance duties (44 percent) among their top reasons for doing so. The remaining 19 percent moved to a similarly-sized home.
The study also underscored the importance of keeping a close eye on this population segment, noting that while growth in the number of households across all other age groups will be less than 2 million, the number of age 65+ households in the U.S. will increase by nearly 11 million.
“How and where our nation’s aging population chooses to live will have widespread implications on the way homes are designed, the resources people will need, and how communities and businesses nationwide should prepare,” says Andy Sieg, head of Global Wealth and Retirement Solutions for Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Zero Down Mortgages Available to Veterans
Road Signs – Zero Down Mortgages Available to Veterans
By Michael Zuren, PhD.
If you are a veteran and do not own a house, now may be the best time to consider homeownership. Interest rates are extremely low, and home prices in most areas are below 2009 prices. A veteran can purchase a house with no money down and no monthly private mortgage insurance. Any veteran that has served in wartime service or during times of peace is eligible for a mortgage insured by the Veterans Administration (VA). The veteran must also have been honorably discharged, or if they are still active in the Armed Forces, they must meet certain service requirements. In addition to veterans, VA mortgages are available to spouses of veterans, if they meet certain criteria.
If you're eligible for VA financing, you will need to apply for your certificate of eligibility from the Veterans Administration. For this form, you will need a copy of your most recent discharge paper (DD214) and to complete VA form 26-1880. Once you have obtained your certificate of eligibility, you can than apply for a mortgage through any eligible lender. A lender, who has been approved by the Veterans Administration for automatic processing and the lenders appraisal processing program (LAPP), will be able to completely process your mortgage without waiting for VA's approval of your credit application and the appraisal.
The factors that a lender will look at when underwriting your loan file include the following:
- Employment - You will be required to show a minimum of your last two years employment history as well as stable income. Periods of unemployment or income fluctuation over the past two years may disqualify you for a loan.
- Satisfactory Credit History - Although, the Veterans Administration has not set a minimum credit score requirement for a VA loan, most lenders will require a middle credit score of at least 640. There are many exceptions to this rule. Compensating factors such as current housing expense, reserves, and down payment may all affect the final credit decision.
- Debt to Income Ratio - There is a single debt ratio for VA loan, which is 41% of your gross income. The debts used to calculate this ratio include: the mortgage payment, auto loans, installment loans, credit cards, student loans, and any other unsecured debt. Utility bills and cell phone bills are not included in this calculation.
- Residual Income Calculation - In addition to the debt to income ratio, VA loans are subject to a residual income factor. This is a calculation used to determine how much money the veteran will have left over after paying their mortgage and all other debts. These debts include state, federal, and Social Security taxes, as well as maintenance and utilities, child care expense, installment loans, revolving debts, and mortgage payment(s). Residual income is the money that you have left over each month after you pay your debts. Residual income would typically be used for personal items such as groceries, gas, movies, going out to dinner, etc. In the Midwest, residual income is based on family size and mortgaged amount. For example, a family size of two, who apply for a mortgage of 80,000 or above, will need to have residual income of at least $738 per month. To verify the residual income for your household, you can either contact the Veterans Administration or your mortgage lender.
- Satisfactory Appraisal - A VA appraisal will be required on the home that you intend to purchase. It will need to meet the health and safety standards set by the Veterans Administration, or repairs will need to be completed prior to closing on the house.
All VA loans must be owner-occupied residential properties. Considering, the current prices of houses in most parts of the country and that interest rates have fallen to their lowest level in years, now may be the perfect time to purchase a home.
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
How to challenge your property Assessment
Property Assessment Challenge Process
This is the time of the year when property assessments will begin to come out.
A property owner would have to contact the municipal assessor for the current assessment unless the assessment has changed from the prior year. Then a notice is to be mailed out indicating the amount of the changed assessment and the time, date, and place of the Board of Review (BOR) meeting (or meeting of the Board of Assessors (BOA) if one exists) meeting. The notice includes information on how to appeal the assessment. Current year assessments are typically available before the second Monday in May.
The Department of Revenue also has an online calendar that provides each municipality's Board of Review (BOR) and Open Book information. Go to http://www.revenue.wi.gov/
For additional information regarding property tax appeals, see the Property Assessment Appeal Guide for Wisconsin Real Property Owners at http://www.revenue.wi.gov/
Pay your taxes
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Posted: 09 Mar 2015 06:58 AM PDT
An article in RisMedia has looked at RealtyTrac’s Property Tax Rates Report for last year, the first the company has produced. This shows the effective property tax rates for single family homes and covers over 1,000 counties throughout the country.
The report shows the average property taxes paid last year and the effective property taxes. Effective property taxes are calculated by taking the average property taxes for single family homes last year and dividing this figure by the average estimated value of single family homes at the end of the year, and by the number of years owned and property value.  RealtyTrac found that owners of low end and high end homes tend to pay the highest property tax rates. Throughout the country the average effective property tax rate for single family homes last year was 1.29%. For homes valued at $50,000 or less this rate was 1.68% while for homes valued at between $50,000 and $100,000 the rate was 1.4%. For property valued at between $1 million and $2 million the rate was 1.56%, while homes valued at between $2 million and $5 million incurred a rate of 1.77%. Homeowners who have owned their property between five and 15 years were found to have the highest effective property tax rates while those who have owned their home for more than 20 years had the lowest effective property tax rates. Overall, the average effective property tax rate was 1.35% for homeowners who have had their property for between 10 and 15 years and this rate was 1.34% for homeowners who have owned the property between five and 10 years. Homeowners who have had their property for less than a year incurred a property tax rate of 1.18%, while the tax rate for homeowners who have had their property more than 20 years was 1.15%. Apparently certain states give property tax advantages to homeowners who have owned the property for a long time, but those who bought their property during the middle of the housing bubble or in the years leading up to the last housing bubble may still be paying taxes on an overinflated evaluation of their home. Experts feel it may be worth the time and effort appealing their property’s assessment, if this option is available to them. States with the highest effective property tax rates were New Jersey at 2.01%, Connecticut at 2.11%, Illinois at 2.15%, Texas at 2.18% and New York at 3.01%. |
Monday, April 13, 2015
Mike Szymczak - Your Midwest Mold Removal Expert
Last weeks April showers sure did make my lawn turn green and also gave all of the spring flowers a nice drink. These spring rains will also start to feeding any mold that also we may have in our basements, attics or other hidden areas until that home inspectors starts taking a closer look around the property.
If you need fast, affordable Mold remediation, testing or just have a question, I am ready when you need me so just call my cell 414 614-3000 and I will be happy to help.
And please visit my updated web site at: www.ABSMOLD.com
Cheers
If you need fast, affordable Mold remediation, testing or just have a question, I am ready when you need me so just call my cell 414 614-3000 and I will be happy to help.
And please visit my updated web site at: www.ABSMOLD.com
Cheers
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Dazzle me
Posted: 08 Mar 2015 08:58 PM PDT
Whether you are ready to put your home on the market or just want to enhance your home’s value and functionality, the kitchen is one of the best places to focus your attention.
But if a complete renovation does not quite fit your budget or you simply don’t want the disruption to your daily life, there is still good news. There are many things you can do to breathe new life into a tired kitchen without breaking the bank. Here are five ideas to consider when you want to increase the “wow” factor for that prime gathering spot in your home.
1. Shortcut a cabinet redo.
Image credit: ginsburgconstruction via pixabay.com
New kitchen cabinets can eat up over half of the total renovation budget. But there are several tricks you can do to give your old cabinet’s new life even without a complete remodel. Often, you can replace just the doors on your cabinets or reface the door surfaces. If you decide to paint your cabinets, be sure your choice of color can adequately cover the wood beneath. For an extra update, replace a couple of doors with cabinet doors of frosted glass or remove them completely for a European look. Even switching out your hardware can make an awe-inspiring difference.
2. Treat yourself to a new tile and fresh paint.
image credit: Woodstock Floors via Flickr.com
Replace your backsplash with new tiles to spruce up the entire room. Try a new glass or metallic tile for a trendy update, and run your backsplash a full 18 inches in depth for a more gourmet look. Top off your eye-catching tile work with a fresh coat of paint elsewhere in the room. Just like it does in other areas of your house, a fresh coat of paint in kitchen can renew tired decor and give the area a fresh look. For easier maintenance, choose eggshell rather than a flat paint finish, if possible, since the area is more prone to splashes from spills.
3. Go stainless.
image credit: Nancy Hugo CKD via Flickr.com
If you have been living with a mismatched or outdated range, dishwasher or refrigerator, treat yourself to a new set of stainless steel appliances. Consider professional-grade, if your budget allows it and you enjoy time in the kitchen. If a whole new set of appliances isn’t quite in your budget, opt for a new refrigerator only. Consider a stainless steel model with French doors for a truly updated look—and greater functionality.
4. Table your island needs.
image credit: Chalon Handmade via Flickr
If you have always wanted a kitchen island, but don’t want the expense of a custom-built one, consider purchasing a stainless steel table from a restaurant supply store. Choose one with shelving beneath. Adding a few wood cutting boards to the top will complete the look. Or, opt for a similar solution using a table with granite top.
5. Finish with faucets.
image credit: Phil Roeder via Flickr
For a finishing touch, consider switching out your faucets. While there may not be a variety of metals to choose from, there are plenty of styles. Begin by choosing a finish, then look for an updated faucet that. You will be surprised what a valuable style-setter a faucet can be in your kitchen.
About the author: Lori W. is an active Realtor in Central Kentucky and has 20 years of experience in marketing and communications for a variety of clients, including real estate brokers, mortgage lenders and property investors.
But if a complete renovation does not quite fit your budget or you simply don’t want the disruption to your daily life, there is still good news. There are many things you can do to breathe new life into a tired kitchen without breaking the bank. Here are five ideas to consider when you want to increase the “wow” factor for that prime gathering spot in your home.
1. Shortcut a cabinet redo.
Image credit: ginsburgconstruction via pixabay.com
New kitchen cabinets can eat up over half of the total renovation budget. But there are several tricks you can do to give your old cabinet’s new life even without a complete remodel. Often, you can replace just the doors on your cabinets or reface the door surfaces. If you decide to paint your cabinets, be sure your choice of color can adequately cover the wood beneath. For an extra update, replace a couple of doors with cabinet doors of frosted glass or remove them completely for a European look. Even switching out your hardware can make an awe-inspiring difference.
2. Treat yourself to a new tile and fresh paint.
image credit: Woodstock Floors via Flickr.com
Replace your backsplash with new tiles to spruce up the entire room. Try a new glass or metallic tile for a trendy update, and run your backsplash a full 18 inches in depth for a more gourmet look. Top off your eye-catching tile work with a fresh coat of paint elsewhere in the room. Just like it does in other areas of your house, a fresh coat of paint in kitchen can renew tired decor and give the area a fresh look. For easier maintenance, choose eggshell rather than a flat paint finish, if possible, since the area is more prone to splashes from spills.
3. Go stainless.
image credit: Nancy Hugo CKD via Flickr.com
If you have been living with a mismatched or outdated range, dishwasher or refrigerator, treat yourself to a new set of stainless steel appliances. Consider professional-grade, if your budget allows it and you enjoy time in the kitchen. If a whole new set of appliances isn’t quite in your budget, opt for a new refrigerator only. Consider a stainless steel model with French doors for a truly updated look—and greater functionality.
4. Table your island needs.
image credit: Chalon Handmade via Flickr
If you have always wanted a kitchen island, but don’t want the expense of a custom-built one, consider purchasing a stainless steel table from a restaurant supply store. Choose one with shelving beneath. Adding a few wood cutting boards to the top will complete the look. Or, opt for a similar solution using a table with granite top.
5. Finish with faucets.
image credit: Phil Roeder via Flickr
For a finishing touch, consider switching out your faucets. While there may not be a variety of metals to choose from, there are plenty of styles. Begin by choosing a finish, then look for an updated faucet that. You will be surprised what a valuable style-setter a faucet can be in your kitchen.
About the author: Lori W. is an active Realtor in Central Kentucky and has 20 years of experience in marketing and communications for a variety of clients, including real estate brokers, mortgage lenders and property investors.
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Real Estate Market Report for Wauwatosa January 1, 2015 - March 2015
Real Estate Market Report for Wauwatosa
January 1, 2015 - March 2015
What's Happening in Real Estate in Wauwatosa WI, Milwaukee County? Remax Realty Center, Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Wauwatosa, WI For the Last 90 Days: Real Estate In Wauwatosa
We are Remax Realty Center, of Wisconsin. Our market report gives you the real estate activity for Wauwatosa the last 90 days.
The following MLS information is for the last 90 days from 01/01/15 to 03/15. Remax Realty Center Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Wauwatosa, WI For the Last 90 Days: Real Estate In Milwaukee County, WI.
In the Wauwatosa,Wisconsin Real Estate market 111 properties sold; 21 were listed and sold by the same company, and 90 were sold by co-brokers.
In the Wauwatosa, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 261 new listings.
In the Wauwatosa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 115 pending listings.
In the Wauwatosa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 8 withdrawn listings.
In the Wauwatosa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 0 canceled listings.
In the Wauwatosa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 26 back on market listings.
In the Wauwatosa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there are 319 currently active listings.
The average price for a home SOLD was $203,991.
The average number of days on market was 97.98
Real Estate Market Report for Eagle January 1, 2015 - March 2015
Real Estate Market Report for Eagle
January 1, 2015 - March 2015
What's Happening in Real Estate in Eagle WI, Waukesha County? Lisa Bear, Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Eagle, WI For the Last 90 Days: Real Estate In Eagle
My name is Lisa Bear, of Remax. My market report gives you the real estate activity for
Eagle the last 90 days.
The following MLS information is for the last 90 days from 01/01/15 to 03/15. Lisa Bear Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Eagle, WI For the Last 90 Days: Real Estate In Waukesha County, WI.
In the Eagle,Wisconsin Real Estate market 10 properties sold; 0 were listed and sold by the same company, and 10 were sold by co-brokers.
In the Eagle, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 45 new listings.
In the Eagle,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 11 pending listings.
In the Eagle,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 3 withdrawn listings.
In the Eagle,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 0 canceled listings.
In the Eagle,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 12 back on market listings.
In the Eagle,Wisconsin Real Estate market there are 136 currently active listings.
The average price for a home SOLD was $233,180.
The average number of days on market was 97.23
Monday, April 6, 2015
Real Estate Market Report for Genesse/Ottowa January 1, 2015 - March 2015
Real Estate Market Report for Genesse/Ottowa
January 1, 2015 - March 2015
What's Happening in Real Estate in Genesse/Ottowa WI, Waukesha County? Lisa Bear, Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Genesse/Ottowa, WI For the Last 90 Days: Real Estate In Genesse/Ottowa
My name is Lisa Bear, of Remax. Our market report gives you the real estate activity for
Genesse/Ottowa the last 90 days.
The following MLS information is for the last 90 days from 01/01/15 to 03/15. Lisa Bear Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Genesse/Ottowa, WI For the Last 90 Days: Real Estate In Waukesha County, WI.
In the Genesse/Ottowa,Wisconsin Real Estate market 20 properties sold; 2 were listed and sold by the same company, and 18 were sold by co-brokers.
In the Genesse/Ottowa, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 53 new listings.
In the Genesse/Ottowa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 11 pending listings.
In the Genesse/Ottowa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 0 withdrawn listings.
In the Genesse/Ottowa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 0 canceled listings.
In the Genesse/Ottowa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 27 expired listings.
In the Genesse/Ottowa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 7 back on market listings.
In the Genesse/Ottowa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 51 extended listings.
In the Genesse/Ottowa,Wisconsin Real Estate market there are 164 currently active listings.The average price for a home SOLD was $326,156.
The average number of days on market was 93.84
Warmer weather also brings....
Posted: 05 Mar 2015 08:21 PM PST
Instead of simply relying on an outdated deadbolt to protect your valuables, there are a few other methods to enhancing the safety and protection of your home. By installing a few features and practicing simple techniques to trick burglars, you can make your home less of a target. You’ll not only deter possible intruders, but can have peace of mind knowing that your home is a burglar-proof fortress.
1. Install Smart Locks
Even burglars who are attempting their first break-in can easily access a home by getting past basic locks with the use of a credit card. Install a smart lock on the front and back door of your property, which will prevent someone on the outside from entering without a key and will often make it impossible to use if it’s fiddled with.
2. Use a Security System
The most effective way to prevent your home from becoming burglarized is to install a security system that will protect your property 24-hours a day. Companies will provide motion sensors, warning stickers or lawn signs, wireless keypads, and backup power supplies to safeguard your valuables with the most advanced security network.
3. Leave a Vehicle in the Driveway
Home intruders are known to scope out a property before they attempt to steal valuables that are left indoors. If you’re away from the home during the day or are on a vacation, it’s important to leave a vehicle in the driveway to make the property look occupied.
4. Use Sensor Lights
Burglars are often successful at break-ins by hiding in dark shadows on the property. Use automated lights at various points of entry on the first floor to startle intruders who may be lurking. The sensors will also cause the burglar to assume that someone is home.
5. Replace Your Doors
Hollow doors are easy for intruders to break through due to their low density, which are often easy to kick in. Install either solid wood or steel-wrapped wood-core doors on the ground floor of the home for a sturdy feature that will be more difficult to break down.
6. Add Timers on Lights
For intruders, it can be easy to spot a property where the homeowners are away based on lights that are turned off. For someone who may be targeting your home, it’s important to use automated timers to switch lights or a radio on at specific times. The noise or lights will cause the intruder to avoid the risk and move on to another property.
7. Install Screen Doors
Steel screen doors may not be impossible to break through, but it’ll work as another obstacle for the intruder when they’re attempting a break-in. Install a screen door at every point of entry on the first floor and buy a frame that has a lock. For the burglar that is attempting to enter the home quickly, it may cause them to simply move on instead of getting spotted by a neighbor.
Although break-ins continue to increase and are currently on the rise, you can protect your space by using the right tools and products. With a few steps made, you can enjoy having a peaceful home that is difficult to enter for those who are unwelcome.
1. Install Smart Locks
Even burglars who are attempting their first break-in can easily access a home by getting past basic locks with the use of a credit card. Install a smart lock on the front and back door of your property, which will prevent someone on the outside from entering without a key and will often make it impossible to use if it’s fiddled with.
2. Use a Security System
The most effective way to prevent your home from becoming burglarized is to install a security system that will protect your property 24-hours a day. Companies will provide motion sensors, warning stickers or lawn signs, wireless keypads, and backup power supplies to safeguard your valuables with the most advanced security network.
3. Leave a Vehicle in the Driveway
Home intruders are known to scope out a property before they attempt to steal valuables that are left indoors. If you’re away from the home during the day or are on a vacation, it’s important to leave a vehicle in the driveway to make the property look occupied.
4. Use Sensor Lights
Burglars are often successful at break-ins by hiding in dark shadows on the property. Use automated lights at various points of entry on the first floor to startle intruders who may be lurking. The sensors will also cause the burglar to assume that someone is home.
5. Replace Your Doors
Hollow doors are easy for intruders to break through due to their low density, which are often easy to kick in. Install either solid wood or steel-wrapped wood-core doors on the ground floor of the home for a sturdy feature that will be more difficult to break down.
6. Add Timers on Lights
For intruders, it can be easy to spot a property where the homeowners are away based on lights that are turned off. For someone who may be targeting your home, it’s important to use automated timers to switch lights or a radio on at specific times. The noise or lights will cause the intruder to avoid the risk and move on to another property.
7. Install Screen Doors
Steel screen doors may not be impossible to break through, but it’ll work as another obstacle for the intruder when they’re attempting a break-in. Install a screen door at every point of entry on the first floor and buy a frame that has a lock. For the burglar that is attempting to enter the home quickly, it may cause them to simply move on instead of getting spotted by a neighbor.
Although break-ins continue to increase and are currently on the rise, you can protect your space by using the right tools and products. With a few steps made, you can enjoy having a peaceful home that is difficult to enter for those who are unwelcome.
Saturday, April 4, 2015
Real Estate Advisor - April 2015 Staging Tips for Sellers
Staging Tips for Sellers
Spring has arrived, which means real estate season is upon us. When selling your home or property, attracting full price offers is always top priority, and a properly staged home can be your number one asset in drawing as many offers as possible. Here are staging tips to help you prepare your home for the market.
Enhance Your Entry
It's the first thing buyers see, and most likely serves as the first impression of your house. Utilize the entry by updating the front door color, change out the door hardware (or clean and polish the current hardware). Make potential buyers welcome with a nice mat and some potted plants or flowers.
Clean Out Clutter
The majority of us have too much stuff, and clutter is a huge killer for potential buyers. Be ruthless when it comes to clutter -- if you haven't used it in three months, box it up. If you haven't used it in a year, sell or donate it. Go one room at a time. It's ok to have empty space. If you can't part with something, get creative on how to store it. Rolling bins that fit under beds are perfect for hiding items and getting things out of the way. Too much furniture will also make a home look cluttered and smaller than it is. You want to create space – ask what you can live without. Every square foot is prime real estate.Move or Float Furniture
Once you've moved out the clutter, turn to the remaining furniture. Furniture doesn't need to be pushed up against walls. Moving and floating pieces can help rooms look and feel bigger. Try moving pieces around, even from other rooms, but remember to keep the perimeters clear with clear pathways.
Let the Light In
Natural light does wonders for a home and makes rooms more inviting. Take down heavy drapery and replace with gauzy and airy fabrics. If you have views, play them up! Look into roman shades, which help with privacy but also let light in. Simple curtain panels made from airy fabrics like cotton twill or translucent linen will let the light in during the day and still help with privacy at night.Re-purpose Rooms
Do you have a designated junk room? Re-purpose rooms that have lost their identity. Most designers look at junk rooms and envision fantasy spaces: an exercise room, meditation space, art studio, etc.. Re-purpose a clutter/junk room into something that will add value to the house. Also consider loft spaces, stairwell nooks and other areas not utilized or gathering dust as possible areas for increased space.
Light It Up
Many homes are poorly lit, making rooms too dim or harsh on the eyes which can deter buyers when they walk into your house. Try to aim for a total of 100 watts for every 50 square feet. Don't be afraid of dimmers, and replace light-switch covers that are old, dingy or broken. Uplights also help add depth to a room, especially when positioned behind a plant or piece of furniture.Add Some Color
Color on the walls or as an accent can really make a room pop. Painting is an inexpensive and easy way to give your house a new look. Neutral colors don't mean beige or off-white; warm tans, honey and soft blue-greens all attract the eye and help to make a room feel warmer without going overboard. Accent walls can also add a burst of color. If painting is too daunting, add richly colored accessories, pillows and throws for subtle bursts of color.
Add Art and Accessories
De-cluttering is important, but so is playing up what you have in your house. Adding art to a drab wall can also add character to a room. Try breaking up the art by patterning and grouping pictures or images together. Add a small touch by accessorizing your room -- layer accessories in threes, with varied heights and widths. The eye naturally reads a room from left to right, so adding a large or striking object in the far right corner will draw the eye to it and make the room seem bigger. Another accessory not to be overlooked: plants. A vase of fresh flowers, branches, twigs or greenery will add depth and character to a room.
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