Category Archives: Home Maintenance

DIY Wall Ideas Using Items in Your Home

Hangplates“You know you want to do something new and different on a wall, but you don’t want to spend a lot of money.  There are any number of ways to change up a wall and make it look and feel different, using items already in your home.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Banish those bare walls. Go from boring to unbelievable with a few creative tricks:

Hang Plates The good china needn’t stay behind the cabinet glass. Display plates or flea-market finds in a space where art would feel cramped, such as in the corner of a large kitchen or along a lengthy corridor. A casual assemblage of patterned and neutral plates delivers a visual bang that’s homey. (For this project, pick up special wire hangers from the local hardware store.)

Hang Plates

Create a Gallery

Let your wall express yourself. There are no rules saying everything needs the same frame or, better yet, that everything needs to be framed. Choose art, prints, and photos that tell a story about people, places, or things in your life. If you’re hanging a grouping of art, maintaining two inches or more between frames on all sides is a good rule of thumb.

Gallery Wall

Transform A Stairway

When it comes to hanging art, we often need to force ourselves to think beyond the living room wall. Other spaces, such as along a stairwell, are often overlooked and can be truly captivating. Before hanging anything, arrange the art flat on the floor in front of the wall and experiment with placement.

Transform a Stairway

Hang a Grid

Tell a story on the wall with polaroids of friends, family, and vacations. Attach them with double-sided tape above a fireplace or other focal point.

Hang a Grid

Balance it Out

When decorating a wall with furniture, set the bottom of the picture six to eight inches above the sofa. Add some supportive decorative touches on both sides to pull the look together.

Balance it Out

Reinvent a Corner

Yes, you have the power to personalize any nook or corner. Bare white walls should have a chance to inspire you, too. Choose a grouping of inspiring prints that work together. Mixing up shapes and sizes adds visual interest to the space.

Reinvent a Corner

Originally appearing on Yahoo! Shine from Domino.com

7 Biggest Mistakes Made with Area Rugs

ARea RugsIt’s such a small thing, but it can make such a big impact.  Do it right and it adds just the right touch to a room.  Do it wrong and it sticks out and takes away from the room.  Just following a few simple tips might make the difference in your room.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

1. Choosing a rug that’s too small
Skimp on size, and your room will look smaller. “You need your rug to set boundaries, and ground your furniture,” says interior designer Danielle Oakey. “In a living room, your rug defines the conversation area, and it should be large enough so at least the front legs of the furniture are on it.”

“In the bedroom, you want to feel the rug on your feet when you get out of bed,” says interior designer Amber Lewis. “I like two feet to extend beyond the bed on each side.”

2. Not trying layering
Why do people often choose a too-small rug? Tinier rug = tinier price. “We’re the layering queens,” says Lewis, about her design team. “Buy a neutral jute rug — which cleans up really well, even if you have stain-prone kids or pets — and place your patterned rug over it.”

3. Leaving your wall-to-wall carpeting bare
“Don’t be afraid to layer an area rug over carpet,” says Oakey. “It adds playfulness, and pulls together your room with the boundaries it needs.”

4. Choosing your rug last
If you’re decorating your room from scratch, choose the rug first. It’s the big, impactful piece that ties a room together, and if you wait until you’ve placed the final throw pillow, you could search for months before the perfect rug come around. (Though, you could go with something neutral until the rug gods grant you a better choice).

“When we’re designing room, we’ll choose the rug and then throw pillows, textiles for curtains, and more on the floor with it, and pick whatever goes with the rug best,” says Lewis.

5. Being afraid of pattern
Some contrast (read: a cute print) is necessary to create a happy space. “Brown walls, a brown couch, and a brown rug will make a room look flat and bland,” says Oakey.

6. Skipping the rug pad
A rug pad dispels slipping and sliding, and adds a layer of comfort underfoot — especially to a flat weave rug. “Rug tape is useless,” says Lewis. “It doesn’t work, and will ruin your hardwood floors with its stickiness.”

7. Missing out on a discount
“If you’re looking for a great price on unique, vintage rug, like a Persian one or Turkish kilim, try eBay,” says Oakey. “Same is true with Etsy — thrift stores often post there. I also like RugsUSA. They have a huge selection and always run sales.”

By Lauren Piro on Yahoo! Shine

How to Paint a Door

how-to-paint-a-door-2“Painting a door…pretty simple right?  Well maybe not.  It’s an easy way to to add a pop of color to a room, but only if done properly.  Take your time and plan it out before you start to make sure it gets noticed for all the right reasons!”

 

 

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Considering the low cost of the project and the relative ease with which it can be completed, painting a door is a terrific way to add a punch of personality to any interior. Painting a door involves virtually no risk: If you decide to paint the door orange, let’s say, and you end up hating how it looks, no problem: You can always revert to the original color or experiment with a different one. That said,painting a door is different from painting other surfaces. It requires more planning, a slightly modified approach, and a few supplies you might not have anticipated. Follow the steps below, however, and you ought to encounter few difficulties. 

MATERIALS AND TOOLS 
– Interior paint 
– Sandpaper 
– Tack cloth 
– Mineral spirits 
– Painter’s tape 
– Paintbrush 
– Roller (with paint tray) 

[inset] 

STEP 1 
If you’ve painted before, you’re most likely familiar with the idea that proper surface preparation means the difference between a smooth, lasting, beautiful finish and a sloppy-looking job. Satisfying, professional-level results begin with sanding, which goes a long way toward ensuring that the paint readily sticks to the door. Use 120-grit sandpaper and either manually, or by means of a hand-held power sander, sand the surface of the door in the direction of the wood grain. Once finished, wipe down the door with a lint-free tack cloth dampened with mineral spirits. Doing so removes the dust and oils that can interfere with paint adhesion. 

STEP 2 
Of course, the presence of hardware—that is, hinges and knobs and perhaps a locking mechanism—spells the crucial difference between a door panel and a wall of plaster or gypsum board. Avoid getting any paint on the door hardware, not only for aesthetic reasons, but also because you might disturb the hardware’s functioning. The safest course is to remove the knob and lock—or to completely remove the door from the hinges—before you start painting in earnest. For those looking to avoid that sort of hassle, a decent compromise would be to protect the metal parts of the door with strategically positioned painter’s tape. 

STEP 3 
Paint the frame of the door (also known as the casing) first—assuming you want to—so that any errant brush strokes land on the door panel that you’re going to paint anyway. If you do choose to paint the frame, use a one- or two-inch brush and let the coat dry completely before you proceed any further. That way, you won’t have to tread carefully later on, fearing that your next movement might result in an unsightly smudge. 

STEP 4 
Are you painting a door with inset panels? If so, paint those before the rest of the door. As you did with the door casing, use a one- or two-inch brush for this round of detail work. Your goal is to get these more-demanding aspects of the job out of the way, so you can then speedily finish with a roller. 

STEP 5 
A roller not only enables you to work faster, but it also delivers a smoother finish. As you go, remember to blend in any brush marks created in earlier steps. To avoid leaving fingerprints, it’s smart to paint one side of the door, let it dry completely, and then go on to paint the edge of the door and the opposite side. 

A word to the wise: While the paint is drying, minimize imperfections by keeping pets and children away from the door. Replace any hardware you’ve removed only after the paint is fully dry. Finally, step back and marvel at what a difference a painted door can make!

Originally appearing on BobVilla.com

How to Clean Granite Countertops

how-to-clean-granite-countertops“Many of you have either purchased a home with Granite, just upgraded to Granite, or are thinking about Granite…but do you really know how to clean it?  Don’t make the mistake of using ‘normal’ cleaning products.  Take  a few tips from the pros and do it right!”

 

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

In many people’s minds, granite means strength and resilience. But to clean granite countertops successfully, a homeowner must act with caution. The stone can actually be damaged by many of the products and techniques that are perfectly safe to use on other kitchen surfaces. You don’t have to be a genius to clean granite countertops; the job just requires a bit of extra care and attention. Follow the steps outlined here, and you’re bound to be satisfied with the result of your efforts. 

REGULAR CLEANING 
Your best bet is nothing more sophisticated than mild dish soap that’s been diluted with water. Bear in mind, however, that because granite scratches easily, the solution ought to be applied with a cotton cloth or soft sponge—that is, not with an abrasive scrubber. Before gently wiping down the counter, wring out the cloth or sponge so as not to compromise the highly absorbent stone (it can become discolored under standing water). Dry off the countertop as a final stage in this routine, not only to protect the granite from water damage but also to eliminate streaks and leave the surface with an eye-catching, irresistible shine. 

STAIN REMOVAL 
Don’t panic! Most of the time, stained granite countertops can be cleaned with household items so common that you probably already have them in your pantry. No matter the source of the stain, start with baking soda. If you wish to clean a water stain, mix the baking soda with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. For an oil-based stain, mix the baking soda with water. In either case, the mixture should generate a thick paste. Generously spread that over the stain, then cover the area with plastic wrap, taping down its edges. Leave the stain remover overnight (or even for a couple of days), before rinsing and wiping down the granite. 

ADDING PROTECTION 
Most installations of granite are protected by a layer of sealant. If you’ve repeatedly tried and failed to remove stains from your counters, chances are that the sealant has ceased to function as it should. In situations where the sealant is to blame, stained granite becomes difficult or impossible to clean, at least for the average do-it-yourselfer. Your best bet is to hire a professional to completely clean and then properly reseal the stone, thereby preventing future problems.

Originally publish by Bob Villa on BobVilla.com

5 Upgrades to Consider when Re-Roofing

reroofing“Putting a new roof on a home is something that almost every homeowner has to deal with at some point.  Once you’ve made that decision there a several additional upgrades that can and should be considered at the same time.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Although re-roofing is not necessarily a glamorous home improvement, it is certainly an important one. If you are planning a new roof, consider these 5 upgrades that will make your roof more beautiful, functional, and long-lived.

Re-roofing your home is not the most glamorous of home improvements. You’ll note that HGTV shows rarely even mention the roof. Unlike decks, kitchens, and baths, the roof is not really something you’d invite your friends over to admire. But re-roofing does present some appealing opportunities for the homeowner who wants to reduce maintenance and unnecessary expenses for years to come. Here are five roof upgrades to consider when you are about to reroof your home.

1. Install an airtight chimney cap
Unlike masonry and metal chimney caps that are designed to keep rain and (if screened) birds and other critters out of your chimney, airtight caps are about saving energy.

When your fireplace is not in use, warm air from inside your home is literally gushing out the chimney when the weather is cold. The damper in your firebox does little to stop it because it is not airtight.

Ask your roofer about installing an airtight chimney cap while the roof is being worked on. These units are spring-activated. To open the chimney cap, you just tug on a steel cable that’s attached to a bracket inside your fireplace. Pull it shut after your fire is completely out. An airtight cap has the added benefit of keeping animals from nesting inside your chimney.

2. Install eave flashing
If you’ve ever experienced damage from an ice dam, you might want to invest a little extra when re-roofing to install eave flashing. These peel-and-stick bituminous membranes are applied prior to shingling to a depth that is 2 feet inside the exterior wall plane (three feet on low-pitched roofs). The membranes self-seal around roofing fasteners, forming a watertight seal over the eaves, which are the portion of the roof most susceptible to ice dams. Bituminous eave flashing may also be specified for other vulnerable roof areas, such as over valleys and around skylights and dormers.

3. Improve roof ventilation
Attics become like furnaces in summer if they are not well ventilated. That heat buildup radiates to the rooms directly below the attic, making them uncomfortable. To keep the attic—and your home—cooler, be sure your roofing contractor installs ridge vents across the top of your roof. Barely noticeable from the street, ridge vents allow air movement beneath the ridge cap shingles. For ventilation to be effective, soffit vents located under the eaves draw cooler air into the attic as hot air is being expelled. Gable vents, which are located near the roof peak of exterior walls, may also be needed to ensure adequate airflow. A cooler attic means your home will be more comfortable during the summer without your having to spend a fortune on air conditioning.

4. Choose an energy-efficient shingle
The recommendation for a cooler roof used to be to select light-colored or white shingles. This option, however, wasn’t always aesthetically appealing to homeowners. Today’s new reflective shingles come in assorted colors, from popular slate to wood tones. The granules not only reflect the sun’s radiation but also quickly reemit much of the heat that is absorbed. Depending on your climate and your home’s construction, a cool roof can save between 7 and 15 percent of your cooling costs.

Photo: LeafGuard Brand Gutters

5. Install low-maintenance gutters
While you’re having your home reroofed, it’s also a good time to scrap your old gutters and install new ones—especially if your existing gutters are misaligned or unsightly. Gutter systems with built-in curved hoods, such as those from Englert LeafGuard, are designed to be maintenance-free. The patented design works on the scientific principle of water adhesion, allowing rainwater to travel down and around its curved hood and into the gutter while deflecting leaves. This prevents clogs and unsightly staining on gutters and siding due to gutter overflow. It also means you can forget about the messy and hazardous chore of climbing a ladder to clean your gutters. The one-piece, seamless LeafGuard Brand gutters are generously sized for the heaviest of downpours, and homeowners like the clean architectural way they define the roof eaves. They even come in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose a tone that will complement your trim, roofing, and siding. Use LeafGuard’s design tool to get a preview of how the gutters will look with your new roof.

With all these improvements, maybe a new roof is worth celebrating.

This posts facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.

8 Spring Maintenance Projects To Save Money

“Now that the weather is finally starting to turn to Spring, it’s time to take a look around and see what might need to be done around your home.  Most of the time we think about Spring Cleaning, but equally important is Spring Maintenance.  Now is the perfect time to look for those things that went unnoticed because we were cocooning all Winter.”

 

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

When we talk about money-saving home maintenance projects, we often focus on winter. After all, heating a home is expensive, and we’ll do whatever we can to reduce the winter costs.

But many projects better suited for warmer weather can save you money, too. Here are eight projects to tackle this spring:

1. Clean the refrigerator and air conditioner coils. Your fridge and air conditioner work in nearly the same way – by exchanging heat through a system of coils. When those coils are dirty and dusty, they can’t exchange heat as efficiently, so the system has to run harder and longer to have the same cooling effect.

Luckily, cleaning these coils is simple. Just take a vacuum hose to the coils on the back of your fridge. For an outside air conditioner unit, you’ll need to disassemble the casing (making sure the power to the unit is off first), and clean using canned air and/or a stiff brush and spray bottle.

2. Schedule routine heating, ventilation and air conditioning maintenance. Yes, it costs money to get an HVAC professional to look over your system. But routine maintenance costs much less than major fixes down the road. So call and schedule your HVAC maintenance now. To save even more, check websites such as Groupon, Amazon Local and Angie’s List for deals with local HVAC companies.

3. Inspect and repair your roof. Spring is the time to get out on the roof to check for ice, hail or water damage from winter. Repairing minor damage can be a quick do-it-yourself fix, and staying on top of your roof’s condition (no pun intended) can save you money by avoiding water damage later on.

4. Clean gutters. This can be a Saturday-long spring chore for many, but it’s important, especially if you live in an area with April showers.

Water doesn’t properly pass through clogged gutters. And that means more water gets near the foundation of your home. This may not cause immediate problems, but over time, too much water near the foundation can cause damage and weakening, which are expensive problems to fix later.

5. Clean the dryer vent. Just like your refrigerator doesn’t work properly with dusty coils, your dryer is less efficient with a lint-filled vent. Even if you clean the lint trap before every load of laundry, you’ll still get some lint in the vent hose, which builds up over time.

To clean the vent, just remove the vent hose from the back of the dryer and vacuum it well. Then, remove the vent cover on the outside of your home, and vacuum it from that side, too.

6. Check the washing machine hoses. Over time, washing machine hoses can crack, which can cause leaks. Sometimes, these inconspicuous leaks go on for weeks or months unnoticed, usually because the washer is pushed back into a corner. This can cause mold problems, water damage and more.

So while you’ve got the dryer pulled out to clean the vent, pull out the washer, too. Check that the hoses are still flexible, and they show no signs of cracking. If they do look worn or cracked, just replace them. It’s an easy fix!

7. Re-caulk windows and doors. You might have caulked your doors and windows before the winter chill set in. Unfortunately, even the best caulk can harden, crack and shrink when it’s cold outside.

So check your windows and doors, and replace as needed. Keeping the hot air out during the summer is just as important as keeping it in during the winter.

8. Plant trees in strategic locations. As you think about landscaping this spring, consider planting a new tree or two. Mother Nature will certainly thank you, and your heating and cooling bills might, too.

If your house gets hit with a lot of sun during the day – which causes the inside to heat up – plant a fast-growing deciduous tree or two on the west, east or northwest side of your home for cooling shade.

And if you noticed wind whistling through the cracks of your home over the winter, an evergreen windbreak on the windiest side of your home might do the trick and block the wind.

Before you plant, make sure you understand how large a tree will grow when it reaches maturity, so you avoid potential costly issues from a tree planted too close to your home.

By Abby Hayes, 

Originally published in US News & World Report – Money

Top 10 Kitchen Trends of 2014

d7076940-b474-11e3-bdba-19c81b89fedf_1-KBIS_Thermador-Freedom-Kitchen“Kitchen remodels are some of the best investments that you can make in any home. Each year there are new ideas that appear around technology and materials.  Las Vegas, Nevada is home to the annual Kitchen & Bath Industry show, and here are some notes from a regular contributor of BobVila.com that we think you will find very interesting.”

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

This year is definitely the year for your kitchen! Over the past few years the trend of modernizing your kitchen to fit your lifestyle has been apparent with technology-driven appliances and innovative surfaces and materials. I traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada in February for the annual Kitchen & Bath Industry show (KBIS). Here are 10 wonderful highlights of the show and how your kitchen still rules the home.

Sink

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Modern kitchen innovation that gives a hint of the past:

There has been a re-emergence in kitchen design to bring back old world finishes and blend them with modern innovation. Modern countertops in granite, marble and solid surfacing can take on a vintage appeal with beveled edges and details that went away with handcrafted cabinetry years ago. Kitchen faucets that resemble ‘hand-forged sentiments of early 20th century metalworkers, Artesso™kitchen faucets blend traditional design with industrial chic inspiration’ was gorgeous to see from Brizo faucets. It was also nice to see that kitchen manufacturers haven’t forgotten that historic details in the kitchen still have a place in our homes.

Counter

 

 

 

 

 

2. Commercial-quality kitchen amenities in your humble abode:

While we all love the comfort of quaint homes, do you sometimes prefer the industrial feel of a commercial kitchen? At KBIS, you could see a definite trend of kitchen manufacturers appealing to both aesthetics. Blanco sinks features their Quatrus R15 stainless steel sink that offers a revolutionary sleek appeal while still enabling homeowners to wash it easily. Turn your kitchen into that commercial kitchen you always wanted with amenities that show off your inner culinary chef .

3. Kitchen accessories aren’t just for show anymore:

Years ago, kitchen accessories played a minor role in function and were instead meant to compliment the sink, faucet or cabinetry of the kitchen. Today, kitchen brands are realizing that homeowners want form, function, and beauty all wrapped up into one. Accessories such as colanders and cutting boards can now fit seamlessly into the sink to help you drain or cut your favorite vegetables. There is no longer a reason to wonder, “What does that do?” in your modern kitchen.

Organized Drawers

 

 

 

 

 

4. Organize your kitchen drawers like never before:

Drawers are commonly used to separate items like spices and utensils. But did you know you can also use your drawers to store bread in their very own customized bread boxes? There was a big representation of brands such as Poggenpohl’s drawer accessories that included cutlery trays, spice racks, knife blocks, bread drawers and aluminum foil holders, among other things. Instead of organizing just a few items in your kitchen, organize your kitchen drawers around the way you and your family use the kitchen.

5. Lighting your kitchen in eco-friendly ways:

Just like the evolution of your home, lighting plays an integral role in ensuring your kitchen experience is safe, enjoyable, and helpful for all your kitchen activities. While traditional lighting fixtures such as pendants and under cabinet lights aren’t new – the use of eco-friendly LED lighting inside of cabinets, drawers, and below the base cabinets is proving to be more helpful to the culinary enthusiast. Whether you have your hands full and don’t have time to reach a light, or you’re looking to add more illumination to your kitchen’s darkest nooks, LED lit cabinetry and drawers may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Decorative Tile

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6. Decorative tile becomes the showstopper over the appliances:

There used to be a time when you walked into a kitchen and all eyes went to the appliances. While appliances are still a major opportunity to wow guests, decorative tile is the perfect crowning glory to a dynamic kitchen. This year, tile manufacturers are holding nothing back and Walker Zanger has always been known for their innovative and iconic tile design styles. This Chelsea Art Glass backsplash is the “Epitome of glass craftsmanship, offering a collection of stunning Tiffany-inspired mosaics created from sheets of colorful, marbleized glass. The glass sheets are hand-cut and blended to create 12 unique shades”. If you’re looking for a way to add pizazz to your kitchen, look to decorative tile to add a glamorous personality to the heart of your home.

Kitchen

 

 

 

7. Saving money in the kitchen is easier than ever

While we all enjoy splurging on our home improvements, saving money on your kitchen renovation is essential. While there was an enormous representation of high-end remodeling ideas at KBIS, there was also a nice contrast of kitchen brands that understood that homeowners like to save money too. I interviewed fixture manufacturer Danze, whose high-quality kitchen faucets are designed save consumers money. They think, “…Your kitchen faucet should do more than just wash vegetables. It should nourish your eye for great design, too. We offer an appetizing array of unique kitchen faucets, bar and convenience faucets and pot fillers. With plenty of smart styles to reflect your personal taste.”

8. Filtered water for your family, delivered in a gorgeous way

Over the years water filtration has become more important as water becomes a more precious resource. Kitchen plumbing manufacturers are finding a way to eliminate the clunky add-on water filter on the outside of your faucet, or under your sink. Brands like ROHL’s Perrin & Rowe are using, “… Filtration featuring Triflow® Technology. This innovative faucet series provides beauty and functionality in one space-saving design. Filtration happens right in the faucet and eliminates the need for an under- the-counter system. Enjoy hot, cold and filtered water while saving money and protecting the environment’”.

Countertops

 

 

 

 

 

 

9. Affordable countertop surfaces that give the look of luxury

Countertops can be a very expensive portion of your kitchen entourage. Lucky for you there are several kitchen countertop manufacturers that understand homeowners want the look of granite, stone, and marble without the hefty price tag.  Formica Corporation has created the 180fx® laminate countertop surface. “A revolution in surfacing with true-to-scale granite patterns that offer visual drama unmatched by any other laminate. New sophisticated patterns focus on a neutral palette – versatile enough to pair with any interior design concept.” So don’t think the kitchen remodel you want is out of reach. It may be possible thanks to these new patterns!

10. Creating connections between your lifestyle and cooking

We live in a wonderful design age where kitchen manufacturers are realizing the importance of connecting how we all live in our homes, the way we interact with our appliances, the way we prepare food, and the way appliances, fixtures, and finishes should interplay with our senses. KBIS is a wonderful example of how the best minds come together to show you what is available today and what they are working on for your future. It’s still true: The kitchen rules our homes and rightfully so. It’s the soul of our home and the way we come together with family and friends!

By Freshome for BobVila.com as published on Yahoo Homes

Home Improvements that Pay Off!

Which_Home_Improvements_Actually_Pay-a1cba2cdd2f82e9613e30166ddafd7a7“Quite often, as our clients are contemplating a Home Improvement project they will consult us to make sure they are going to get their money back.  This is especially true for those who are thinking of Selling, but realize that they have not done any upgrades since they bought the house 10, 15 or more years ago.  Here are some very revealing numbers to consider before you start that next big project.”

 

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

Even the most valuable remodeling projects don’t completely recoup the cost, according to Remodeling Magazine’s annual cost vs. value report. The project with the highest return on investment — installing a steel door — only recoups 97 percent of its cost. That wasn’t always the case. In 2009, steel doors had an ROI of 125 percent. But in 2011, it fell to 73 percent.

These huge swings are due to fluctuations in home prices — and when home prices dropped, so did ROI on remodeling projects. But now that home prices are rising and construction costs are relatively stable, homeowners can expect to see these projects pay off. Here’s what you can expect to pay — and recoup — from some of the most common remodeling projects, from a minor kitchen redo to a two-story addition.

Minor Kitchen Remodel

 

Businesswoman-getting-glass-off-shelf_web

 

Average national cost: $18,856
ROI: 82.7 percent

While any kitchen remodel will add some value to your home, less is more when it comes to ROI. If you’re remodeling on a budget, focus on a few key areas: Replace dated appliances with more modern, stainless steel models; replace aging countertops with sturdier materials that you can afford; replace cabinet hardware (but leave the boxes in place); and apply a fresh coat of paint or add a new backsplash.

Major Kitchen Remodel

 

Interior-kitchen_web

 

Average national cost: $54,909
ROI: 74.2 percent

Any real estate agent will tell you to invest your time and money in the kitchen if you want to add value to your home. Why? Because kitchens make a big impression — and home buyers want them to be modern, functional and well-maintained. The average cost of a major kitchen remodel is high, but includes a complete gutting — from cabinets to appliances to flooring and replacing them with modern mid-range materials.

Be careful not to go too far with kitchen remodels. Unless you’re living in a high-end, luxury home, you shouldn’t have high-end, luxury appliances (like a top-of-the-line Sub-Zero fridge, for example) or personalized gadgets — they won’t matter to your targeted buyer or add value to your home.

Bathroom Remodel

 

Contemporary-bathroom_web

 

Average national cost: $16,128
ROI: 72.5 percent

Second to the kitchen, a modern bathroom is high on many home buyers’ wish lists. The average cost of a bathroom remodel includes replacing a porcelain-on-steel tub, shower head, toilet, sink, vanity, as well as floor and wall tiles. But you don’t have to do all that to boost your home’s value. To get the biggest bang for your buck, keep the tub, toilet and sink and focus on replacing the vanity surface with solid material (think: granite, quartz, marble), installing better faucets and a shower head and updating tiles around the shower. These surface additions are more visible and reflect taste prospective buyers will appreciate.

Basement Remodel

 

Finished-white-basement-in-house_web

 

Average national cost: $62,834
ROI: 77.6 percent

There’s a reason you see “finished basement” advertised in so many home listings — it’s an attractive feature. To get the full value out of your remodel, you want the basement to provide space for entertaining your family or guests. It should be big (and finished) enough to be a truly useful space. The average cost of a basement remodel includes adding a bathroom with a glass shower, a 20×30 foot entertaining area with a wet bar, insulated walls and laminate flooring. However, keep in mind that below-grade rooms like basements don’t add as much value as above-grade rooms, like an attic conversion.

Attic Conversion

 

Modern-and-warm-attic-bedroom_web

 

Average national cost: $49,438
ROI: 84.3 percent

Converting your attic into a livable space accomplishes two things that add value: It adds square footage and a bedroom without increasing the footprint of the home. By adding that extra space, particularly a bedroom, you’ve moved your home into a new category — a four bedroom instead of a three bedroom, for example — and that’s guaranteed added value. Remodeling Magazine’s average cost includes a bathroom, which does add value, but can be cost-prohibitive in some attics.

Two-Story Addition

 

Children-running-up-stairs-after-school_web

 

Average national cost: $155,365
ROI: 71.8 percent

Adding on space — specifically a family room, bedroom and bathroom — will always add value to your house, but it’s hard to completely recoup such a high cost. However, when adding onto a home, you’re probably thinking more about creating more space for yourself than the next owner, which to many people may be worth the money.

Deck

 

Beautiful-wooden-back-deck_web

 

Average national cost: $9,539 for wood, $15,437 for composite
ROI: 87.4 percent for wood, 74.3 percent for composite

Outdoor living spaces are becoming more popular, and that means buyers are willing to shell out more money for homes that have these outdoor entertainment spaces. While wood decks add more value and cost less, they typically come with more maintenance costs (like staining) over time to maintain the wood.

Ilyce Glink is an award-winning author, columnist, radio talk show host and blogger who specializes in real estate and personal finance. Her articles appear on Yahoo, AOL, CBS News, and numerous blogs. Find her online at ThinkGlink.com.

12 Decorating Do’s and Don’ts

Decorating Tips“Tired of living with white walls and the same decor that you’ve had for years?  Want to spruce things up a bit, but not sure how, or where to start?  Read these great tips from some of the best in the business.”

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson 

 

No rules – but timeless, unforgettable advice. Twelve designers share their favorite words of wisdom.

Don’t: Use White Decor If You Have Kids or Pets
“If you have pets or children, white rugs and upholstery are just not in the cards. People love the way they look but never realize that you have to hermetically seal your household to keep them clean.” –Markham Roberts

Do: Find Inspiration in Your Travels
“Travel as much as you can, and stay on the alert for inspiration wherever you go – you could find a great floor plan in a museum’s period room, or a color in a painting. And don’t just rely on your camera. If you draw something, you’ll really absorb the detail.” –DD Allen

Don’t: Forget About Seating
“Today everyone likes rooms sparse, but for a living room, you need the sorts of chairs people can pull up together, so that they want to come into the room and sit down and chat.” –Paula Perlini

Do: Use Dramatic Color in a Small Space
“Color is best used in small spaces that you pass through. A dramatic color in a room where you’re going to be spending a lot of time might feel too heavy or dark, but if you use it in a foyer or pantry, it makes the whole house feel colorful. It also makes the house feel bigger, because it turns a space you might not notice into one that catches your attention.” –John Barman

Don’t: Be Afraid to Splurge on Great Pieces
“Invest in one great-quality piece. It sometimes hurts in the beginning, but you end up having that piece forever, and it can really carry a room, or even an entire house.” –David Kaihoi

Do: Test Paint Colors in a Big Way
“When you test paint colors in a room, make big patches so that you can really see if you need to go darker or lighter. I make mine 3 feet by 3 feet.” –Mary Douglas Drysdale

Don’t: Ignore Architectural Details
“Respect the architecture of a space. That’s not to say you can’t be surprising – I might use period furniture in a modern room, but I’ll make sure the lines and silhouettes are appropriate. The whole room has to hang together.” –Mariette Himes Gomez

Do: Trust Your Instincts
“The late, great Antony Childs once said to me, ‘Be true to yourself, and trust your instincts.’ We all have different points of view – that’s what makes each of us special – and our rooms should be a reflection of that.” –David Mitchell

Don’t: Make a Room Too Formulaic
“Start a room with a classic furniture layout that’s functional, then add in funky pieces to loosen it up, relax it, and keep it from feeling too formulaic.” –Thom Filicia

Do: Draw the Eye With an Interesting Piece
“A photographer I worked with taught me the importance of the axial view. When you’re looking down a corridor, you want a wonderful object at the end of it to draw you forward – a sculpture, a chandelier, anything to define the space and pull you in.” –Nancy Braithwaite

Don’t: Go Overboard
“One of my mentors always said, ‘Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.’ Great projects are the ones that show a little restraint.” –Heather Hilliard

Do: Pay Attention to Doors and Entrances
“Spend the money to make openings between rooms as high as possible – anything to get away from the standard, squat 7-foot-tall door. It really creates a sense of openness, lightness, and grandeur in a space.” –Suzanne Lovell

Originally published on Yahoo! Shine 

15 Painting Mistakes to Avoid in Your Home

Painting Tips“There is not a cheaper way to transform a room, and give it a different feeling than changing the paint color.  When done right, everyone notices the difference.  The only problem is that when done wrong, everyone notices as well.  Following these simple tips and tricks, your new painting project will be noticed for the ‘Right’ reasons.”

 

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

Taking on your next painting project? For a flawless finish, avoid these painting mistakes.


1. Skipping the Tape
Do you have the skills to get straight lines around the woodwork, windowsills and doorframes? Grab the painter’s tape and get the nice, clean edges you want.

2. Painting Without Primer
Primer gives paint a good surface to adhere to and brings out the true color of the shade you’ve chosen. Going without it can lead to poor results.

3. Impatience
You took the time to fix every imperfection with patching compound. Wait. Make sure it’s completely dry before you sand and prime. Otherwise, all that patching was a waste of time.

4. Paint Buildup on Pad Edge
When using edge pads around ceiling edges and corners, make sure to wipe off excess paint frequently to avoid marking the surface.

5. Brushing When You Should be Rolling
For a large interior area, a roller will do a better job in less time. Select the right nap roller for your sheen of paint and try to avoid pushing the roller into the wall when you paint.

6. Underestimating How Much Paint Needed
The pros say you need one gallon for every 400 square feet. Plan ahead and you can avoid running back and forth to the store with a paint swatch in your hand.

7. Assuming Walls are Clean
Paint looks much better when it has a good, clean surface to stick to. Wash your walls before painting and get professional results you can be proud of.

8. Painting When the Humidity is High
When the air is full of moisture, water-based paint takes longer to dry. If the weather winds up more humid than expected, take the day off and wait for a dry day.

9. Skipping the Surface Prep
Your new paint won’t stick to glossy, dirty walls that are in bad condition. Take the time to prep, or you’re bound to have problems down the road.

10. Paintbrush Abuse
When using latex paint, wet your brush bristles with water and shake the brush dry before you dip it in the paint. The brush will hold more paint and deliver better results.

11. Buying Any Paintbrush
When you’re choosing paintbrushes to use with latex-based paint, nylon/polyester blends produce the best results. Turns out polyester is good for something besides sport shirts.

12. Painting with Furniture in the Room
Getting paint off your furniture is a lot of work. If you can’t move it out of the room, at least make sure it’s completely covered with a drop cloth.

13. Failure to Protect the Floor
Paint has the amazing ability to go all the places you’d least expect it to. Before you pop the can open, make sure you have a drop cloth over everything and the edges are taped.

14. Polka-Dot Doorknobs
Unless you like the look of splattered paint, we recommend that you slip plastic bags over your doorknobs and tape the edge to avoid unsightly paint splatter.

15. Painting the Wall Plates
Want professional-looking results? Take five minutes to remove the wall plates and tape around your light switches and electrical outlets.

-From DIYNetwork.com