Monthly Archives: May 2015

7 Repairs That Add Value to Your Home

“Whether you are preparing to sell your home,  or just doing regular maintenance, these repairs will not only increase the value of your home, but help it retain it’s value over time.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – Dc Metro Realty Team

While purchasing a house may mostly be about having a place to call “home,” it can also be seen as a lifetime investment. Making a few repairs—and even some cost-effective renovations—can not only skyrocket your home’s value, but can make it a more enjoyable place to live. We tapped into our network of Pros to uncover seven of the most valuable repairs you can make for the long term, whether or not you plan to sell in the future.

1. Fix Up the Exterior

As the saying goes, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression, whether it’s with your new neighbor or a future buyer. Repairing any broken doors, damaged screens, or cracks in your front walk can really make a difference. You might want to consider having your siding pressure-washed, your trim repainted, or your landscaping spruced up.

(Credit: EpicStockMedia/Shutterstock)

(Credit: EpicStockMedia/Shutterstock)

2. Repair the Roof

Having a roof over your head is a moot point if that roof is in need of repair. A roofing contractor can make quick work of damaged or missing shingles, clogged gutters and detached flashing. While you’re at it, schedule a chimney cleaning—when’s the last time you had your flue inspected and swept? (Hint: You ought to have this done once a year.)

(Credit: Ruta Saulyte-Laurinaviciene/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Ruta Saulyte-Laurinaviciene/Shutterstock)

3. Address Plumbing Issues

If the roof doesn’t leak, neither should the plumbing. Hire a plumber to fix those slow drains, dripping faucets and poorly functioning water heater. Keep in mind that you may benefit most from installing a completely new water heater, especially if yours is 10 to 15 years old or more.

(Credit: Chalermchai Chamnanyon/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Chalermchai Chamnanyon/Shutterstock)

4. Improve Interior Walls

If you’re looking to sell your home, you want a potential buyer to be able to visualize living in your home. And while you might love your unique color scheme (we don’t judge), you may want to consider painting your walls a more neutral palette. Ask your painter to patch any holes and sand down the walls while they’re at it to get the best effect.

(Credit: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock)

5. Replace the Flooring

Do you have scratched or buckling hardwood floors, outdated vinyl tiles from the 1970s, or carpet so dirty you can’t remember the original color? One of the fastest and easiest ways to reinvigorate your home is to replace the flooring. With so many options today—stain-resistant carpet, wood-look vinyl flooring,  eco-friendly bamboo or cork—you’re sure to find a floor that you and future owners will love.

(Credit: photobank.ch/Shutterstock)

(Credit: photobank.ch/Shutterstock)

6. Renovate the Kitchen

You’ve probably heard it before: The kitchen sells the home. This adage is absolutely true, so if you’re looking for a larger renovation, start with the kitchen. New appliances, refaced cabinetry and stone countertops are a few of the most popular kitchen modifications that will help increase the value of your home.

(Credit: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock)

7. Update the Bathrooms

If your bathrooms look like they belong in the 1980s, it’s time for an update. You can go as low- or high-budget as you like, so talk to your contractor about where to spend your renovation budget to get the biggest impact. New fixtures and updated tile could be all it takes to bring your bathroom into the 21st century.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

 

Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services — especially research on contractor fees and qualifications.

8 Cheap & Easy Ways to Update Your Bathroom

“When we list a home, we usually do at least some of these.  Buyers are always impressed with updated, clean, fresh bathrooms.  However, DON’T do #7!  It looks great at first, but just doesn’t hold up.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – Dc Metro Realty Team

Of all the rooms in your home, the bathroom may be the most frequently visited. With all that use, it’s easy for your bathroom to become a victim of wear and tear, but keeping it up to date can be done quickly and affordably. Here are nine easy ways.

1. Paint Your Walls

A fresh coat of paint in a modern color can liven up any room, especially your bathroom, and is an easy DIY. You can make a bold statement with a vivid and rich color or keep with a crisp pastel or neutral color for a clean, bright feel.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

2. Replace the Mirror

This may be the easiest fix for your bathroom. With an abundance of mirrors on the market, have fun choosing one that reflects not just you but your personality. Place multiple small mirrors together in a collage or use an oversize ornate one. The best part is that you can switch the mirror as often as you like.

(Credit: Ioana Davies (Drutu)/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Ioana Davies (Drutu)/Shutterstock)

3. Replace Your Grout

Grout grows dull so slowly that it can be hard to notice it change. But over time it dirties and loses its appeal. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, replacing your grout can give your counter, bath or shower a new lease on life without completely redoing the room.

(Credit: CSImagemakers/Shutterstock)

(Credit: CSImagemakers/Shutterstock)

4. Switch the Lights

If you look around your bathroom and think to yourself that it needs to be brighter, or that the light fixtures don’t quite fit in, you can change them out as quick as anything. Brass wall sconces are a fun and modern take on vanity lights, and a dainty chandelier will upgrade any bathroom lighting fixture.

[ Click to find the right contractor for your lighting project now.]

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

5. Install a Vanity

Stores like Home Depot have wonderful prefabricated vanities that you can install yourself. Not only do they add sophistication and completely change the look of a bathroom, but they also add storage.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

6. Refinish Your Tub

Refinishing your bathtub is much easier and cheaper than replacing it altogether. You can buy all the tools separately or in a convenient kit if you want to do it yourself, but since this takes a little bit of skill to get an absolutely smooth finish, we’d recommend bringing in a professional.

[ Time to update your bathroom? Click to find the right contractor for the project now.]

(Credit: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock)

7. Replace the Toilet Seat

Skip the terry cloth or faux fur covers your great-aunt used to spruce up the porcelain throne. Instead, replace the seat all together. If you have a screwdriver, you can easily replace the lid and seat to make it look like new.

(Credit: Thanaphat Somwangsakul/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Thanaphat Somwangsakul/Shutterstock)

8. New Plumbing Fixtures

While this upgrade can fall into the more expensive range, an elegant, quality plumbing fixture will enliven your bathroom for years. Show off your personal style with brushed nickel, a farmhouse-style faucet or vintage-inspired fixtures that will last.

(Credit: Gyorgy Barna/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Gyorgy Barna/Shutterstock)

9. Add Texture to Walls

If your walls look flat and boring, consider adding paneling like wainscot or beadboard. You can apply it to all of your walls or just one as an accent point. Paneling a wall adds dimension to your bathroom.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

 

Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services — especially research on contractor fees and qualifications.

5 Things to Consider about Wood Floors

Hardwood Example

“Often our Buyers and Sellers will ask us what type of hardwoods are best to install.  The answer like most things is ‘It depends’.  Different rooms have different uses and can require different woods.  Floors can also set the tone for the room, so you need to give it some thought.  Read these tips for some things to think about before making the final decision.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Homeowners evaluating new flooring owe it to themselves to consider the benefits and beauty of wood. Wood floors are comfortable, durable and surprisingly affordable, and nothing quite compares to the character and warmth they bring to every room in the house. While there are a myriad of choices available, not every type of wood flooring is suitable for every application. If you are shopping for a wood floor, here are five things to keep in mind.

Type of Wood Flooring
There are primarily two types of wood flooring products—solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. Solid wood flooring is milled from solid wood logs, and is joined with a traditional tongue and groove along both the long and short edges. Solid wood is available prefinished or unfinished, in strips and planks ranging in thickness from 5/16″ to 3/4″. Strips are 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″ wide and planks are 3″ to 8″ wide.

Engineered wood flooring is comprised of multiple layers of plywood and composite material, and topped with a layer of solid hardwood. Engineered wood flooring comes in thicknesses ranging from 3/8″ to 3/4″ and from 3″ up to 10″ wide; the hardwood layer on top ranges in thickness from .6 millimeters to 4 millimeters.

While both types offer the same beauty of real hardwood, the primary difference between solid hardwood and engineered flooring is in the floor’s composition. “Since solid wood flooring is subject to expand and contract relative to a home’s humidity it needs to be installed on the ground floor or above grade,” explains Bill Schlegel, Chief Merchandising Officer for Lumber Liquidators. “Engineered flooring, which is more stable due to its multi-ply construction, can be installed on all levels of the home,” adds Schlegel, “making it perfect for basements and bathrooms where dampness and moisture can be issues.”

Select Red Oak Solid Wood Flooring

8-x-3-Select-Red-Oak-Flooring-Odd-Lothusro3s38v-od_sw

Choice of Wood Species
There are many different woods used in flooring, but some are harder and therefore more durable than others. “Day to day wear and tear is what concerns most people when shopping for a wood floor,” says Schlegel, “and the benchmark for hardness in the U.S. is Red Oak.” While Red and White Oak are the most common domestic wood floors, Hickory and Maple (harder than oak) and Walnut (softer) are also popular choices. Top selling exotic woods such as Brazilian Cherry, Brazilian Koa and Cumaru are among the hardest species available. “Naturally, the harder the wood, the better it will be for wear and installation in high-traffic areas of the home,” Schlegel notes.

Grain, Color and Appearance
Because wood flooring comes in so many different species, styles and finishes, it is fairly easy to select a floor to match any room décor. If you have a country-style interior, wide plank floors with highly defined wood grains and a distressed appearance will be a good fit.  For Colonial homes, consider wide, random plank width flooring in Oak and Maple.  For traditional interiors, hardwood flooring in widths of 2-1/4″ to 3-1/4″ in Oak, Maple or Walnut, or parquet flooring, will be smart choices. Virtually any type of wood can be used in a contemporary setting, depending on what stain or finish is used—for example pewter, dark charcoal or whitewash finishes can transform any wood species into a modern masterpiece.

Casa de Colour Select Pewter Maple Hardwood Flooring

Casa de Colour Select Pewter Maple 10032461-crop

Type of Finish
The finish is the real determining factor in the overall appearance of a wood floor. The same wood species will look completely different finished in a clear gloss, versus a distressed, hand-scraped or wire-brush finish. “There are different gloss levels and finishing techniques that change the overall look of the wood floor,” Schlegel notes. “Our Bellawood solid and engineered wood flooring in a mid to high gloss looks completely different in a low gloss matte finish,” explains Schlegel; the latter imitating the look of an oil-rubbed European finish, but without the constant care and maintenance.  Distressed, hand-scraped or wire-brush finishes will also be something to consider when shopping for a wood floor.

Flooring is sold either “unfinished” or “pre-finished.” Unfinished floors are sanded and finished on-site, which provides for a consistent seal and prevents dirt and moisture from penetrating the seams between boards (floors typically receive one to three coats of sealant). Pre-finished flooring is factory-applied in a controlled setting, and typically receives seven to eight coats of sealant. “I definitely recommend pre-finished flooring, because it ensures a superior and consistent finish, and comes with a warranty,” Schlegel asserts. “All Bellawood pre-finished flooring comes with a 100-year, transferable warranty, which can be a selling point to future buyers—since the warranty transfers to the new owner.”

Cost and Installation
The cost of wood flooring depends on the type, the wood species and the finish. Typically, solid prefinished wood flooring runs from $2.49 to $12.69 per square foot. Prices on engineered prefinished wood flooring range from $1.69 to $8.79. The average cost of installation usually runs about half as much as the flooring but depends on the type of flooring and installation for your home.

Both solid wood and engineered wood flooring are installed by nailing, stapling or gluing planks to a subfloor. There are, however, a variety of new “click” engineered products available that can be installed easily and “floated” above the subfloor.

“Installation can definitely be an expensive proposition, especially with unfinished flooring,” says Schlegel, “but competent DIYers can save money by doing the job themselves and purchasing prefinished flooring.” Lumber Liquidators offers all of the tools and materials that a homeowner would need to install a wood floor.  He adds, “I recommend saving money on installation and buying a better floor.” This article is sponsored on behalf of Lumber Liquidators.  Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.

7 Ideas to Help You Use Your Outdoor Space

outdoor-living-ideas-string-lights

“When done right, you can expand your current living area.  You’ve probably got a backyard, or a deck, and you’re just not sure what to do with it.  Take a look and get some ideas that can work for you!”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

 

When your mom told you to turn off the TV and play outdoors already, she knew what she was talking about. Hanging outside is good for our mental and physical well-being.

As adults, having an outdoor retreat adds an economic component: Upwards of 80% of homebuyers said patios and front porches are “essential” or “desirable,” according to the “What Buyers Really Want” survey from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

So how come when we move into our dream home, we hardly ever use our decks, porches, and patios?

An anthropological UCLA study, described in the book “Life at Home in the Twenty-First Century,” blames our fascination with digital devices — tablets, computers, televisions, games — for keeping us cooped up. The UCLA research participants spent less than half an hour each week in their outdoor space. And these were Californians.

So this summer let’s make a pledge to pay more than lip service to outdoor living so we can be happier, create lasting memories, and generally take advantage of what home has to offer.

1.  Go Overboard on Comfy

Comfy outdoor seating on a home patio
Image: Liz Foreman for HouseLogic

When you step into your outdoor space, your first sensation should be ‘ahhhh’. If you’re not feeling it, then your space is likely lacking the comfy factor. Comfy is easy to achieve and can be as low cost as you want. Start simple with a cushion or two or even a throw. Some other simple strategies:

  • Make sure your outdoor seating is as cushy as your indoor furniture. Today’s outdoor cushions aren’t the plastic-y, sweat-inducing pillows of the past. Plus, they can handle a downpour and spring back once they dry.
  • Lay down outdoor rugs so you’re just as comfortable barefoot as you are inside.
  • Give yourself some privacy. Create natural screens with shrubs, bushes, or even bamboo reeds. Or install prefab screens from your local home improvement store.

2.  Create a Broadband Paradise

Our devices and electronics have conspired to keep us on lock down. Since we’re not about to chuck our digital toys, boot up your outdoor space so you can keep texting, posting to Instagram, and watching cat videos.

  • Wireless outdoor Wi-Fi antennas provide an extra boost so you can stay connected.
  • A solar USB charging station keeps your gizmos powered.
  • Wireless speakers make it easy to bring your music outdoors, and mask a noisy neighborhood.
  • An all-weather outdoor TV lets you stay outside for the big game.

3.  Blur the Line Between Indoors and Out

Creating a seamless transition between your home’s interior and exterior isn’t as simple or low cost as adding comfort, but it’s the most dramatic and effective way to enhance your enjoyment of the space. Plus, it can increase your home’s value.

  • The most straightforward, cost-effective solution: Replace a standard door opening with sliding or glass French doors.
  • Use the same weatherproof flooring, such as stone tile or scored concrete, outside as well as in the room leading to your backyard oasis.

4.  Light the Way

Solar pathway lights Image: Liz Foreman for HouseLogic

When the sun goes down, don’t be left groping for your wine glass. Outdoor lighting dresses up your home’s marketability and appeal (exterior lighting is buyers’ most wanted outdoor feature, according to the NAHB study), makes it safer, and lets you spend more time outside.

  • Use uplighting to highlight trees, architectural details, or other focal points.
  • Add sconces or pendant lights to make evening entertaining, grilling, and reading easier.
  • Illuminate walkways, rails, and steps with landscape solar lights.
  • Hang fairy or string lights to set an enchanting tone.

5.  Make Your Mark

Pavers in a home's yard Image: Liz Foreman for HouseLogic

Let your style dominate your backyard space.

  • Create a path made with colored glass, brick, or other interesting found materials.
  • Craft a one-of-kind outdoor chandelier.
  • Build a pizza oven, custom seating, or other feature you crave.
  • Add personal décor that makes you happy.

In fact, make your outdoor retreat an ongoing project where you can hone your DIY skills.

6.  Don’t Give Anyone an Excuse to Stay Inside

Outdoor space with kid-friendly playhouse and DIY chalkboardImage: Tasya Demers from My House and Home

Your outdoor space will magnetically draw family and friends if it has features they find appealing.

  • A fire pit is a proven winner. Food and fire have brought humans together since the dawn of time.
  • Give wee ones the gift of magical thinking with an outdoor playhouse.
  • Add whimsy with a chalkboard fence that both kids and fun-loving adults will enjoy.
  • Add a doggie window in your fence to entertain Spot. Installing a dog run may even boost your home’s value. FYI: It’s been said that pets are one of the top reasons why people buy houses.

Related: Outdoor Projects You Can Do with the Kids

7.  Rebuff the Elements

Canopy over a home deck
Image: LizMarieBlog.com

Hot sun, rain, wind gusts, and bugs are the archenemy of good times. Here are tips and strategies to help you throw shade on Mother Nature:

  • Install an awning, canopy, or pergola. It’ll make it easier to read your Kindle or iPad and keep you dry during a summer shower. Look for products with polycarbonate panels, which block UV rays, too.
  • Rig glass fence windscreens to the keep your BBQ fires burning.
  • Screen in your porch or deck against bugs. But screening will be for naught if you forget the slats between wood planks. Cover the floor with outdoor carpet or staple screening to the underside of floorboards.

By Deirdre Sullivan, Originally appearing on HouseLogic

9 Creative Ideas for a Small Front Yard

Small Front Yard

“So much of the time, ideas for lawns are really designed for larger yards.  Here are some special ideas for smaller yards!”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

 

(Credit: jessicakirch/Shutterstock)

Just like the first impression you make when you meet someone new, your front yard introduces you and your home to first-time visitors. You want the landscape to look appealing and express your style even if the area in front of your home is small.

Whether your house is located close to the street or it’s in a subdivision with a small rectangular plot in front, you have a myriad of ways to create the impact you desire.

1. Nix the Lawn

Instead of mowing a small parcel every week in the summer, substitute with lush, tall ornamental grasses alternating with perennial flowers and small trees just inside your fence line. Try feather reed grass, fountain grass, switchgrass, purple millet or fiber optic grass, all of which require little maintenance.

(Credit: JPL Designs/Shutterstock)

(Credit: JPL Designs/Shutterstock)

2. Install a Path

Create a walkway with sliced wood, pavers or stepping stones. Surround the short trail with brightly colored perennials and place a birdbath, chairs, small bench or other focal point at the end of the path. You can also design the same type of walkway, only let it lead to your front door.

(Credit: goldenjack/Shutterstock)

(Credit: goldenjack/Shutterstock)

3. Plant Vegetables

To have a bounty of food throughout the year, make the entire yard into a vegetable and herb garden. Or, use a combination of pots and hanging planters for your bounty and a fenced-off area surrounded by a white or other colored low picket fence.

(Credit: vilax/Shutterstock)

(Credit: vilax/Shutterstock)

4. Create a Desert ‘Scape

You can make a small patch of yard look bigger by including a few well-chosen attractive elements. Add cacti of varying heights amid light or dark gravel. When the cacti bloom you’ll want the colors to contrast with the gravel. Other low-growing succulents easily accessorize small front yards, and work especially well in arid regions.

(Credit: karamysh/Shutterstock)

(Credit: karamysh/Shutterstock)

5. Fill in With Ornaments

Instead of buying plants that require lots of attention and may be hard to grow, fill in the landscaping with garden ornaments. Yard art comes in every size and shape imaginable from gnomes to fake decorative rocks where you can hide an extra house key. Find what appeals to you and reveals your personality.

(Credit: apple2499/Shutterstock)

(Credit: apple2499/Shutterstock)

6. Fashion an Alcove

Showcase a small area of the yard with a pergola, water fountain, koi pond or bench where you can read in the shade. This gives a perception of depth and makes the location both charming and functional.

(Credit: Natalia Bratslavsky/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Natalia Bratslavsky/Shutterstock)

7. Landscape With Planters and Baskets

Add depth and an illusion of more space by choosing planters of different heights, and by also using platforms under the pots. Line a sidewalk or walkway with different types of containers like wrought iron, ceramic and baskets. Place some color-producing plants and some greenery in the pots for a no-hassle way to make your front yard your own.

(Credit: 1000 Words/Shutterstock)

(Credit: 1000 Words/Shutterstock)

8. Give Your Garden a Zen Spin

An Zen-inspired yard equates with minimalist and clean lines. With fewer plantings required, mid-sized evergreens work well in the back and dwarf varieties of trees in the front. Potted bonsai trees and landscaping rocks disbursed throughout the dwarfs increase the Zen look. Add mulch, which keeps down the unwanted weeds, saves water and decreases the need for upkeep.

(Credit: Delpixel/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Delpixel/Shutterstock)

9. Edge with Ornamental Fencing

Keep your design simple by erecting a low fence around a tiny yard. That way your home appears farther from the street than it really is. Then, plant colorful perennials and annuals that bloom at different times of the year so you almost always have bursts of color welcoming visitors to your home.

(Credit: romakoma/Shutterstock)

(Credit: romakoma/Shutterstock)

Originally by Pro.com

Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services — especially research on contractor fees and qualifications.

9 Ways to Spice up Your Kitchen!

Gray Kitchen
“Tired of your current kitchen?  These ideas are different from what most of us think of.  Everything from accent colors to mixing cabinet styles.  Take a look and get inspired!”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
Freestanding cupboards, mix-and-match colors, contrasting textures, individual drawer pulls — kitchens can be as creative as their owners. If sleek, clean-cut units don’t get you excited, take inspiration from these nine ways to get a more varied look in the kitchen.
1. Mix cabinet styles. This kitchen’s cabinets are all the same trendy gray, but they sidestep predictable symmetry because two pieces are different styles. They work together, but their drawers have different depths and storage options. A rail for pots and pans creates more variety.
Transitional Kitchen by Glenvale Kitchens
Glenvale Kitchens
2. Feature a key piece. To keep things interesting in a kitchen with matching cabinets, add a standout storage unit. It could be a plate rack or a bright or weathered dresser. It will break up the rigidity of a single-finish kitchen and let your personality shine through.
Victorian Kitchen by Redesign London Limited
Redesign London Limited
3. Work in an island. For impact in a large kitchen, an island needs to be a “hero” piece that can carry the space. This weathered central island doesn’t conform to any norms. Along with the industrial storage on wheels, it adds just the right amount of character.
Victorian Kitchen by Compass and Rose
Compass and Rose
4. Try an urban loft style. A strong dose of industrial style livens up this slim kitchen. Wood, metal, gray paint and ceramic surfaces mix easily, thanks to similar tones. Then there are the contrasts: Bare bricks are mirrored by glossy metro tiles, waist-level units by a taller cabinet. Matching kitchen pieces in this space could have looked too uniform; these look freed up and innovative.
Traditional Kitchen by The Freestanding kitchen company
The Freestanding kitchen company
5. Go two-tone. A blend of two shades — palest green and natural bare timber — brings a breath of fresh air to this kitchen. Tongue and groove cabinets and two types of handles are extra custom twists.
Farmhouse Kitchen by Hill Farm Furniture Ltd
Hill Farm Furniture Ltd
6. Compare and contrast. A creative kitchen doesn’t have to be off-the-charts unusual. Simply combining two tones, two surfaces and two heights does the job. Carefully crafted finishes give the space a quality feel.
Scandinavian Kitchen by Blakes London
Blakes London
7. Cast it in monochromes. The dark-on-light color scheme here adds visual interest, and the contrast of raw, waxy timber and smooth marble creates a look that’s unique.
Eclectic Kitchen by Mad About Your House
Mad About Your House
8. Add your own handles. This kitchen works its magic with off-the-shelf Ikea units with tactile leather handles. They handles are eye catching and pleasant to hold — significant, when you consider how often they’ll be used. Open shelving on top combines with a stainless steel countertop that wouldn’t be out of place in a chef’s kitchen.
Industrial Kitchen by Aura Construction
Aura Construction
9. Pare it back. This converted industrial warehouse is a dramatic space, so the designer wisely didn’t try to make the kitchen steal the show. Zinc-colored doors inside pale frames, metallic tones and a pared-back 1960s vibe for the furnishings help this kitchen work in its setting — proof that statements don’t always have to be shouts.
By Jo Leveers, Houzz contributor

The Perils of Retirement at 65

65 Candles

“When to retire?  It’s a question we ask ourselves, and have probably come up with several different answers over the years.   Here are some things to think about when making that decision.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Age 65 is the year we traditionally associate with retirement, but this age is declining in significance. Only one major retirement benefit still kicks in at this age, and plenty of people aspire to retire at both earlier and younger ages. Here’s a look at why age 65 no longer resonates as a target retirement age:

[See: 10 Numbers Everyone Should Know About Social Security.]

You won’t qualify for full Social Security benefits. While you can begin Social Security payments as early as age 62, you won’t get the full amount you have earned unless you sign up at your full retirement age. The full retirement age used to be 65 for people born in 1937 or earlier, but has since been increased to 66 for most baby boomers and 67 for everyone born in 1960 or later. If you claim your Social Security benefit at age 65 you will get a reduced monthly payment compared to waiting until your full retirement age. For example, a worker born in 1965 will get 13.3 percent smaller monthly payments if he signs up at age 65 instead of waiting until his full retirement age of 67. Spousal benefits are also reduced if you claim them at age 65. While spouses are entitled to 50 percent of the higher earner’s benefit payment if it’s more than they can get based on their own work record, if you begin receiving spousal payments at age 65 you will get only 41.7 percent of the higher earner’s payments.

You have a small window in which to sign up for Medicare. Perhaps the most compelling reason to retire at age 65 is Medicare eligibility. Once you turn 65 you no longer need to hold on to a job for the health insurance coverage. You can sign up for Medicare beginning three months before your 65th birthday and start coverage the month you turn 65. It’s important to sign up during the seven-month window around your 65th birthday, because your Medicare Part B and D premiums can be increased if you enroll later. Beginning the month you turn 65 there is also a six-month Medigap enrollment period during which you can buy any Medigap policy sold in your state. If you don’t sign up then you could potentially be charged significantly higher premiums or even denied coverage. If you are still working at age 65 and have a group health plan through your or a spouse’s job, you should sign up for Medicare within eight months of leaving the position or health plan to avoid the higher premiums.

[See: 10 Ways to Make the Most of Medicare.]

You can start retirement account withdrawals, but aren’t forced too. At age 65 you are old enough to avoid the early withdrawal penalty on 401(k) and IRA distributions. The 10 percent penalty is typically no longer applied to retirement account withdrawals once you turn age 59 1/2. However, you will have to pay income tax on your withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s and IRAs. But 65-year-olds are not yet required to withdraw money from their traditional retirement accounts. They can continue to defer income tax on their savings and let the money grow for another five years. Distributions from traditional IRAs and 401(k)s become required after age 70 1/2, and a 50 percent penalty is applied to missed distributions.

The length of retirement. If you retire at age 65 and live until 90, you will be retired for 25 years. It can be incredibly difficult to save up enough to pay for over two decades of leisure time. You will also need to manage your money so that it will last throughout that entire period of time, which could include inflation, stock market volatility and health problems or other emergencies that require you to dip into the principal. Working even a year or two past age 65 gives you more time to save, your investments more time to grow, increases your monthly Social Security benefits due to delayed claiming and shortens the period of retirement you need to pay for.

[See: 9 Important Ages for Retirement Planning.]

If you’re working primarily for the health insurance you get through your job, retiring at age 65 when Medicare eligibility kicks in can make sense. But if you’re interested in timing your retirement closer to the year you max out your Social Security benefit or are required to take retirement account withdrawals, you’ll probably need to pick an alternative retirement age.

By Emily Brandon, originally appearing in US News and World Report

10 Ways to Check Your Homes Curb Appeal

house_driveway

“We always love articles on Curb Appeal because they help everyone.  Even if you’re not preparing to sell your home, here are several simple ways to see if you have an opportunity to improve your homes First Impression.”

 

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – Dc Metro Realty Team

Getting your property ready for sale can be a complicated affair. Simply cleaning your home isn’t enough—you may also need to make a few improvements to the exterior. To pique the interest of prospective buyers, it’s important to make your home look impressive from the street; in order words, you should improve its “curb appeal.” Here are ten questions to help determine if your home has curb appeal before you put it on the market.

1. Can the House Be Seen From the Street?

Prospective buyers who see and admire your home are more likely to go inside, and those who go inside are more likely to make offers. For said buyers to come in the door, they first have to see where they’re going. Take a look at your property from the street—can you clearly see the architectural details? If not, you may need to prune trees, shrubs, and other impediments so buyers can get a better look.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

2. Do Your Neighbors Help or Hurt You?

Since the curb in front of your home extends around your whole block, you could say that your neighborhood plays a role in your property’s curb appeal. Even if you make your home’s exterior as elegant as possible, prospective buyers may be turned off by the other homes on the block. If the other properties in your neighborhood are looking a little shabby, consider making friends with the homeowners and asking them nicely to dress up the neighborhood a bit. You might also offer to assist with small improvements or enlist the help of a local home improvement professional.

(Credit: rSnapshotPhotos/Shutterstock)

(Credit: rSnapshotPhotos/Shutterstock)

3. Does Your House Feel Private?

Even if you live in a fabulous neighborhood, you probably want a little privacy every now and again. Privacy is especially important for neighborhood newcomers, who will need some time adjusting to their neighbors. To make your home more appealing to prospective buyers, consider adding new fences, a row of arborvitae, or other privacy measures. A home with ample privacy will help buyers feel safer and more secure.

(Credit: romakoma/Shutterstock)

(Credit: romakoma/Shutterstock)

4. Would Someone Want to Come Inside?

When prospective buyers are thinking about touring the inside of your home, you can bet that they’re looking at the front door. A good-looking front door should beckon buyers to come inside and make them think about what their future houseguests will see. If your front door is in sorry shape, you might think about restaining it, repainting it, or replacing it altogether. If you don’t want to replace the whole door, you might just replace the hardware (door knob, lock, hinges, and knocker). An attractive wreath can also make your front door look more appealing.

(Credit: David Papazian/Shutterstock)

(Credit: David Papazian/Shutterstock)

5. How Does Your Garage Door Look?

The garage door takes up a large portion of the average home’s façade. If this is true for your property, you’ll need to make sure your garage door looks presentable. A shabby-looking garage door may reflect poorly on the rest of your property, causing potential buyers to look elsewhere. Replacing or painting your garage door is one of the most cost-effective ways to prepare your home for resale and catch the eyes of passersby. Also, replacing your garage door is a great opportunity to ensure that it better matches your home’s other architectural features.

(Credit: karamysh/Shutterstock)

(Credit: karamysh/Shutterstock)

6. Is Your Hardscaping Intact?

An attractive home front should appear orderly and well-constructed. Hardscaping—which refers to the use of brick, concrete, and natural stone—is a big part of curb appeal. Your driveway, walkway, flower beds and other aspects of hardscaping should be clean and devoid of cracks. Your hardscaping should also complement the landscaping and home siding so potential buyers experience positive feelings when looking at your property.

(Credit: karamysh/Shutterstock)

(Credit: karamysh/Shutterstock)

7. How Does Your Garden Grow?

Good landscaping can help give your property more personality. You might consider adding some fertilizer to the grass and planting a few flowers in your yard before putting your property on the market. If your yard looks a little bare, consider filling the space with a tree or shrub. One quick and affordable solution is to place a few potted plants near your front door. Since the front door is one of the first places that potential buyers look, giving it some life is definitely a good way to go.

(Credit: fotocraft/Shutterstock)

(Credit: fotocraft/Shutterstock)

8. Are You Clean or Cluttered?

The key to attracting buyers is to make your home look its absolute best. Removing clutter from the front lawn is important for giving prospective buyers a good look at the yard and for encouraging a positive first impression. To make your property sparkle, you might also consider power washing your home’s siding and walkway.

(Credit: Michael Courtney/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Michael Courtney/Shutterstock)

9. What Color is Your Home?

Generally speaking, prospective homeowners are most attracted to neutral colors. If your home is currently a vibrant, bold color, you might consider repainting it so that it’s more attractive to a wider pool of potential homeowners. Grey, beige, light blue, off white, and light brown are some of the most popular colors for homes. Be sure to consider your landscaping, hardscaping, and the other homes in your neighborhood when selecting a new color.

(Credit: Pavel L Photo and Video/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Pavel L Photo and Video/Shutterstock)

10. Do You Love Your Home?

Every homeowner wants to know that they’re buying a home that’s in good condition. If a potential buyer sees that your roof, windows, and gutters are in good shape, he or she will assume that the rest of your home is well maintained. The better your home looks, the less maintenance the new owners will have to perform after moving in. The roof is an especially important aspect of your home’s exterior, as it’s vital for keeping the elements out and costs thousands of dollars to replace.

(Credit: g-stockstudio/Shutterstock)

(Credit: g-stockstudio/Shutterstock)

Originally appearing on Yahoo Homes  By Pro.com

Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services — especially research on contractor fees and qualifications.

Top 10 Mid-Atlantic Native Plants

Nodding Onion
“How many times have we learned by trial and error, what will actually grow in our yards? We came across this article that has many plants that you will probably recognize if you live in the Mid-Atlantic region.  Now you will know what they are and why you always see them!”
BTW – We also like Purple Cone Flowers as seen in the background of this picture.
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
The Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. has a rich diversity of native plants appropriate for use in the residential landscape. The four-season climate allows for distinct seasons, with spring a welcome and noticeable change from winter, and summer long enough to grow most plants to maturity. The rich colors in fall ease the transition into the stark contrasts of the deciduous woods in winter. We are fortunate to have good amounts of average annual rainfall, but we are also subject to occasional drought. Native species, when established in soils that are appropriate to their nature, can handle these natural fluctuations in weather.Here are 10 of my favorite native plants for use in the mid-Atlantic region. The plants on this list are suited to a variety of conditions. In compiling this list, I first looked at plants indigenous to some part of the mid-Atlantic region. Then I considered their value to wildlife, particularly birds and pollinators; their appearance in the landscape (bloom, color and form); their durability (ease of establishment, tolerance to drought, resistance to disease and pests); and finally deer resistance. Two common problems in this area are deer browsing and clay soils. I call out the plants that can tolerate those below.

Traditional Landscape by River Valley Orchids
River Valley Orchids
Black-Eyed Susan
(Rudbeckia hirta)Compared with the more commonly sold yellow coneflowers, such as Rudbeckia fulgida ‘Goldsturm’, black-eyed Susans have a looser, more natural form. I like this species’ exceptionally long bloom time, typically from mid-June into October. It is short-lived, but sets a lot of seed. It tolerates a variety of soil types, including clay, and grows well in full to part sun.

Black-eyed Susans work well in borders, as shown. At 1 to 3 feet tall, the plant also mixes well with taller plants. In an established shrub bed, its tendency to reseed will result in it finding and filling in the gaps. This is a great choice for a naturalistic or cottage garden, but maybe not for a formal planting.

The flower of the species has a dark dome-shaped center surrounded by bright yellow to golden petals. A number of cultivars have fancier coloration in shades of orange, red and brown. Gloriosa daisies are cultivars of the species that have twice the number of chromosomes (tetraploid) and feature larger flowers in multiple warm hues. The cultivars are commercially available as plants or seed. To get the species plants, you will probably have to start from seed, but this is a very easy plant to grow from seed, either indoors or directly in the garden. It usually will bloom the first season, though later in the summer.

See how to grow black-eyed Susan

Landscape Nodding Onion
Nodding Onion
(Allium cernuum)
Native from New York south to the cooler regions of Georgia and west to British Columbia and ArizonaNodding onion is a tough native bulb that prefers sunny, dry conditions. As the name suggests, the pinkish midsummer flowers bend over at the ends of their stalks. I like to use them in a border. Since plants reproduce by producing bulb offsets, a few plants can develop into a dense planting after a few years. It can be used as a ground cover or accent plant for sunny dry sites.

As with many onion species, these tend to be deer- and pest-resistant. The midsummer blooms attract bees and hummingbirds.

See how to grow nodding onion

Rustic Landscape Dicentra eximia
Wild Bleeding Heart
(Dicentra eximia)
Native from New Jersey and West Virginia south to Virginia and Tennessee, mostly in the Appalachian Mountains; has been found growing wild from Vermont to Georgia and west to IllinoisThis is a true mid-Atlantic native, with the center of its native range in the mountains of Virginia and West Virginia. It is a great ground cover plant for shady woodlands and borders and, once established, it can handle drier soils. I have even had success growing this under a Norway maple (Acer platanoides), which is really the epitome of dry shade.

It features soft, fern-like foliage and pink heart-shaped flowers that burst forth in mid spring. Blooming can continue through the summer under ideal conditions. Bees and hummingbirds pollinate the flowers, and deer and rabbits tend to leave this plant alone.

See how to grow wild bleeding heart

Landscape by Missouri Botanical Garden
Missouri Botanical Garden
Foamflower
(Tiarella cordifolia)
Native from New Brunswick in Canada, south to Georgia and west to MichiganThis evergreen, or nearly evergreen, ground cover has prolific white blooms in spring and interesting foliage for most of the year. In most nurseries you can find a number of cultivars with different patterns and color shades on the leaves. You can enjoy that foliage most of the season, since deer and rabbits tend not to feed on it.

Growing less than a foot tall, foamflower is a perfect plant to use along a path or as a ground cover among larger perennials and shrubs. Plant in partial sun to shade in average-moisture soils.

See how to grow foamflower

Landscape by Lush Life Landscapes
Lush Life Landscapes
Indian Pink
(Spigelia marilandica)
Native to woodland edges and shaded woods of the southeastern U.S., from Maryland south to Florida and west to TexasIt’s hard to miss the bright red and yellow flowers of this shade tolerant perennial. They look like miniature hummingbird feeders, which in fact, they are. Hummingbirds are the primary pollinator of this plant.

Plant in small clumps. They can also work planted in a large mass, forming a 1- to 2-foot tall ground cover in a shady garden or bed. Plant in partial sun to shade in average to moist soils. This used to be a difficult plant to find for sale, but production has ramped up and it is becoming more available.

See how to grow Indian pink

Eclectic Landscape by Jay Sifford Garden Design
Jay Sifford Garden Design
Ostrich Fern
(Matteuccia struthiopteris)
Native in the Northern United States and Europe, China and JapanThe finely divided foliage and dense cover of this fern make me feel cooler just from looking at it. There are many beautiful ferns but ostrich fern stands out with its strong architectural form. Many ferns have a mass of fronds that form a sea of green, but ostrich fern has a strong clumping tendency and maintains a vase-like shape. Growing to 3 to 5 feet tall, this plant makes a strong statement in a shady garden.

The fronds begin dying back in the fall and the plant can look a little ratty, however the dark brown fertile fronds remain intact through the winter and can add interest to an otherwise empty space.

Its native range is in the northern quarter of the U.S. but performs well in the mid-Atlantic. It likes shady, moist conditions and will tolerate clay soils. Like most ferns, it is deer resistant. In the spring new foliage appears first as fiddleheads. These are amazing to look at. Many people harvest them and enjoy eating them — after cooking — for their asparagus-like taste.

See how to grow ostrich fern

Landscape Carolina Allspice (Calycanthus floridus)
Eastern Sweetshrub
(Calycanthus floridus)
Native from southeast Pennsylvania to southeast Kentucky south to northern Florida and LouisiannaEastern sweetshrub is a native of the Southeast, with a range that extends to southern New England. What is remarkable about this plant is the exotic 3-inch blooms that decorate it in mid to late spring. It’s an understatement to say they smell sweet; I liken the scent to tutti-fruity. Once, when I got a little disoriented on a walk, I picked up the sweet scent wafting through the woods and I knew I was close to home.

Its glossy, medium green leaves form a dense hedge that might be used to enclose a shady patio. Suckers need to be pruned out if you want to keep it compact. You are treated to another scent when cutting out branches: the aroma of camphor. This may be why deer avoid browsing on this plant.

It needs protection from full afternoon sun and prefers evenly moist soil. It is also a good shrub choice if you have clay soils.

See how to grow Eastern sweetshrub

Landscape by Michael Huft
Michael Huft
Spicebush
(Lindera benzoin)
Native from Southern Maine to northern Florida and west to Missouri and LouisianaSpicebush is an understory shrub, native to the eastern U.S., with high wildlife value. It produces attractive yellow blooms in early spring. Caterpillars of several butterfly species, particularly the spicebush swallowtail, feed on its leaves. Bright red berries that are favored by several species of birds ripen in late summer. The seeds can be used as a flavoring similar to allspice. Consider this a native alternative to forsythia — with benefits.

You can recognize spicebush in the woods by the citrusy scent of the leaves or stems when crushed. It naturally grows in the understory of moist woodlands, but it will adapt to sunnier sites, given sufficient moisture. Spicebush is resistant to salt and tolerates clay soils.

See how to grow spicebush

Traditional Landscape by The American Gardener, LLC
The American Gardener, LLC
Eastern Redbud
(Cercis canadensis)
Native from the Plains east to southern New England and south to FloridaIt’s easy to pick out eastern redbud in early spring. The magenta flowers that line the branches are unlike anything else in the forest understory. It can be used in many ways in the landscape. I’ve seen it used in an allée, with pink blooms lining the path in early spring and heavy shade through the summer. It can also be scattered like exclamation points in a few locations throughout the garden.

Eastern redbud prefers full sun to part shade in average to moist soils. As a member of the legume family, it has the ability to fix nitrogen from the air, giving it a boost in infertile or depleted soils. It can also tolerate clay soils.

In addition to the species, there are many named cultivars, including red-leafed ‘Forest Pansy’ and yellow-leafed ‘The Rising Sun’ forms and a small weeping cultivar named ‘Covey’, for small gardens. There are some problems with hardiness of cultivated plants in colder climates. You should consider the climate that the plants originated from if this is an issue. The cultivar ‘Northern Strain’ comes from Minnesota and is reported to be more cold hardy than others. The variety texensis is more drought-resistant and suited to warmer climates.

See how to grow eastern redbud

Landscape by Will Stuart
Will Stuart
Carolina Silverbell
(Halesia tetraptera)
Native from southern West Virginia to Mississippi and northern FloridaThis is another southeastern plant whose native range extends into Virginia and West Virginia. It is hardy enough to grow well up into southern New England. This small to medium-size tree can be grown in sun as well as shade in average to moist soils.

The dangling white blooms appear on outstretched branches before the leaves come out, about the same time as the eastern redbuds. The flowers are a good food source for honey bees, and both bees and butterflies pollinate them. Caterpillars, such as of promethea moths, consume the leaves. Squirrels are known to feed on the seeds in the fall.

The form of this tree is variable, ranging from a single trunked tree to a multistemmed shrub. It is particularly good at stabilizing slopes, which are its native habitat.

See how to grow Carolina silverbell

There are, of course, hundreds of wonderful plants to choose from. To make your own choices for plants suitable to your local conditions, take a look at selection guides tailored to your region. Some examples include: Native Plants for Wildlife and Conservation Landscaping: Chesapeake Bay Watershed (my favorite for use in Maryland), the plant selection database at The Wildflower Center, Northern Virginia Native Plants guide and Landscaping With Native Plants in Pennsylvania.

Originally appearing on HOUZZ by Curtis Adams Houzz contributor, landscape designer, native plant enthusiast and blogger

9 Easy Ways to Clean & Maintain Wood Floors

foyer_wood_floor

“Wood floors look great, but do you know how to keep them looking great?  All it really takes is the knowledge of a few tips on cleaning and maintenance.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

 

(Credit: pics721/Shutterstock)

Your floors bear the brunt of daily life – dogs, kids, cleats, muddy boots, wet footprints and more coming through your home. Your floors reveal the truth about what goes on at home through the scrape of the chair across the floor, by moving furniture or the glittery mess from a craft project.

Whether you’ve installed new flooring or are refinishing the ones you inherited, they can last for years with the proper care. Follow these nine steps for cleaning and caring for your wood floors for a lifetime of warmth, character and beauty.

1. Floor Finish

Determine what kind of finish your floor has. Not sure? To do a quick assessment on your own by rubbing your finger across the floor:

• If you don’t see a smudge (as with most new flooring), the floor is surface sealed, usually with polyurethane, urethane or polyacrylic

• If you see a smudge, the floor has been treated with a penetrating seal, like shellac, varnish or lacquer, and then waxed

(Credit: somchai rakin/Shutterstock)

(Credit: somchai rakin/Shutterstock)

2. Surface Dirt

Sweep, vacuum or sweep your floor regularly (even daily) to remove surface dirt.

(Credit: Suzanne Tucker/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Suzanne Tucker/Shutterstock)

3. Spills and Stains

Clean up spills immediately. If it’s something sticky, use a lightly dampened cloth or rag to wipe up the sticky residue. If it’s something that stains, use a product specifically formulated for this.

(Credit: Sascha Burkard/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Sascha Burkard/Shutterstock)

4. Cleaning Solution

The best cleaners are those recommended by your floor’s manufacturer. Otherwise, try using a quarter cup of a pH neutral, gentle soap like dishwashing soap or Murphy’s Oil Soap in a bucket of warm water. Be sure to wring out the mop until it’s barely damp and change the water as it gets dirty. Once you’re done, rinse the floor with a barely damp mop and clean water. Note: Too much water on any wood floor may warp the wood.

(Credit: vvoe/Shutterstock)

(Credit: vvoe/Shutterstock)

5. Upkeep

If your floor has a polyurethane finish, upkeep is simple. Simply vacuum or sweep, then clean with a lightly damp mop. If your floor has a seal with a wax top coat, vacuum and use a dust-mop regularly, and buff to keep your floors shining.

(Credit: OSORIOartist/Shutterstock)

(Credit: OSORIOartist/Shutterstock)

6. Shine Through

If your floor starts to lose its shine, then you’ll want to recoat the surface with surface finish, but never use a wax on a floor that has a surface finish. Also, do not use furniture spray on a wood floor. You’ll end up with a floor as slippery as a skating rink! Depending on the traffic on your floors, you may need to do this every 5-7 years.

(Credit: Irina Mos/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Irina Mos/Shutterstock)

7. Wax On

When buffing no longer restores the shine, you may need to rewax. Apply a cleaner and paste, or liquid wax made specifically for wood flooring. After application, let the floor dry, then buff to a shine. Paste wax takes a bit more effort to apply, but it provides more protection for your floor. Liquid wax makes the job easier, but leaves a thinner coat. Thankfully, you should only have to do this twice a year.

(Credit: Stokkete/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Stokkete/Shutterstock)

8. Prevention

To prevent scratches, put felt pads under chair and table legs, and use doormats on the outside of your entrances and just inside your doors to help catch dirt and sand before it can get tracked in. If you’ve got pets, make sure their nails are clipped short so they won’t scratch the floor.

(Credit: BW Folsom/Shutterstock)

(Credit: BW Folsom/Shutterstock)

9. Resist Humidity

You may notice cracks in your floors during the winter, when the air can be dry, but these should fill in when the humidity rises in the summer. Your best bet is to keep the relative humidity in your home between 35% and 55%.

(Credit: Vinogradov Illya/Shutterstock)

(Credit: Vinogradov Illya/Shutterstock)

 

Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services — especially research on contractor fees and qualifications

Originally posted on Yahoo! Homes by: Spaces Contributor