Tag Archives: Home Maintenance

3 Ways to Bring the Heat to Outdoor Living Spaces

“Extend your outdoor living into the fall and winter with some heat.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and heat lamps can extend the seasonal enjoyment of your deck, porch or patio by providing warmth and an inviting ambiance that pulls guests and family members outside well after the mercury drops. But it’s important to understand the benefits and costs. Here’s what to know as winter begins to encroach on your outdoor living space.
Contemporary Deck by Prideaux Design
Prideaux Design
Fire Pits

Typically less expensive than fireplaces, fire pits can also summon guests with the promise of lovely ambient heat. There are portable, prefabricated options readily available, as well as built-in custom design options in a wide range of styles and costs.

Portable wood fire pit. This is your simplest, least expensive option. Run down to your hardware store or jump on the Internet, and for as little as $100, you’ve got a fire pit. Pick up some firewood, throw the unit out on the deck and voilà, it’s s’mores time!

This is a low-cost, and thus low-risk, option. But with all wood-burning units, local wood-burning ordinances need to be followed, which can sometimes result in spare-the-air, no-burn days, during which your fire pit may not be legally usable. Also, you will need to stay stocked with firewood, but the portable, wood-burning fire pit provides authentic heat at a low cost, and its ease of installation simply cannot be matched.

Traditional Deck by Dennis Mayer, Photographer
Dennis Mayer, Photographer
Portable gas fire pit. The rooftop deck seen here becomes an evening oasis, and a simple propane flame is the critical component of the transformation. Portable fire pits burning propane gas, like wood-burning varieties, are extremely common and relatively low-cost. They burn clean, reliable heat (as long as you keep the accompanying propane tank full) and can be placed practically anywhere.
Traditional Patio by Rolling Landscapes Inc.
Rolling Landscapes Inc.
Built-in wood-burning fire pit. A well-constructed wood-burning fire pit is the traditional go-to heating element to keep everyone toasty on a cold night. There is something about that rolling crackle as the fire consumes real wood logs right under your nose that draws children and adults to its authentic flame.

A wood-burning fire pit usually takes less time to plan for and can be significantly less expensive to build than a built-in gas fire pit. In some cases you may not need a permit for a wood-burning fire pit, and since no gas line is required, there are often more location options available.

The construction of a wood-burning fire pit can likely be completed within one week.

Traditional Landscape by Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction
Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction
Built-in gas fire pit. This is the option for you if you’re looking for a simple, reliable, custom design to fit the look of your landscaping with the year-round benefit of natural gas.

Having a party? Why bother with stoking a fire, and why should people get smoke in their eyes? Flip a switch just before the doorbell rings, and the fire will be sure to burn high and true.

There is not much of a downside to this option, except, of course, that the cost of a natural-gas fire pit typically runs well over $6,000, depending on the proximity to available gas; the gas ring and log features selected; and the design characteristics of your fire pit. You will always need to get a permit for a built-in gas fire pit, and that can be a time-consuming and somewhat costly proposition.

A built-in custom gas fire pit will likely take about two weeks to construct, once the permit approval process is complete.

Contemporary by austin outdoor design
austin outdoor design
An advantage of the built-in gas fire pit is the variety of design possibilities available. Most of the modern, sleek fire pits you see in landscape photos are of the natural-gas-burning variety.

See how to make a stacked-stone fire pit

Mediterranean Patio by Lori Smyth Design
Lori Smyth Design
Outdoor Fireplaces

Usually built-in and more expensive than fire pits, fireplaces can offer a grand focal point that can be the central feature of your yard. They are more visible than fire pits and take a little more time to construct.

Nothing is more inviting outdoors than the warm glow of a fireplace beyond a windowpane. This is the ultimate visual feature, as it is more visible than a fire pit, and can provide both a grand statement and cozy intimacy.

Fireplaces are typically more expensive than fire pits due to their size, which can result in substantially higher foundation and masonry costs.

Traditional Patio by Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design
Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design
Wood-burning fireplace. Once it gets going, there truly is nothing else exactly like a roaring wood fire in a masonry fireplace. But as is the case with all wood-burning fires, one needs to consider possible spare-the-air days when wood fireplaces aren’t legally usable. These restrictions affect many of the most populated regions of the U.S. and around the world.

A built-in wood-burning fireplace is likely to run around $10,000, though size, materials and geographic region can substantially impact the final cost. In some jurisdictions, the approval process for an exterior wood-burning fireplace is simpler than for gas, so it may be easier to plan and begin the construction of your wood-burning fireplace.

A wood-burning fireplace usually takes about two weeks to construct.

Contemporary Patio by Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design
Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design
Built-in gas fireplace. The gas fireplace shown here uses a gas appliance, which is typically less expensive than an exterior, true masonry fireplace with a gas log set. The downside to a gas appliance is that it does not offer quite the same authentic look as a true masonry fireplace, but the reliable heat output can be fantastic, it usually costs slightly less and, when properly installed within a nice surround, it is an inviting element with a more reliable heat output than some masonry gas fireplace designs.

See more of this outdoor space

Southwestern Patio by Earth Art Landscape
Earth Art Landscape
The fireplace shown here is a simple masonry-type design with a gas log set. It has a more authentic look than an appliance but may not provide the same heat output.
Craftsman Porch by Board and Vellum
Board and Vellum
Heat Lamps

There are simple portable propane lamps readily available at a relatively low cost, and built-in gas and electric lamps that are less conspicuous while radiating a warm glowing heat from above.

Electric. The great thing about built-in electric heat lamps is that they can be installed flush to a ceiling, so they are hardly noticeable except on those cold nights when they make themselves felt. They provide extremely reliable, very strong heat output, and can be used to create more warm and usable outdoor space than can be achieved with other options.

You can expect to pay a minimum of about $2,000 per lamp, including electrical installation, although this cost can vary depending on the manufacturer and installation details. A permit is always required, and there are very specific design clearances that must be maintained.

Traditional Patio by Matt Clawson
Matt Clawson
Gas heat lamp. Gas heat lamps are not typically as slim as their electric counterparts, but they give off superior heat output at greater efficiencies.

In the space here, we used a gas heat lamp with a traditional-style fitting for an authentic Tuscan-style home.

The cost of gas lamps is similar to but typically slightly higher than,electric, because gas costs more to provide than electricity in most locations. A permit is required for installation.

Patio by High Def Technologies
High Def Technologies
Portable gas heat lamp. This is the reliable old standby in gas lamps. Its portable nature makes it incredibly convenient, and these lamps are relatively inexpensive.

The downside is they take up space, and as is the case for portable gas fire pits, their propane tanks need to be periodically refilled.

Traditional Patio by Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction
Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction
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All things considered, there is only one cure for the cold, and that is heat. While the smoky aroma of real wood burning and crackling away stirs up nostalgic memories and warm feelings in many, there are advantages to the gas and electric sources noted here, such as ease of use, reliability and environmental cleanliness.
By Matt Clawson, originally published on HOUZZ

9 Tips for Setting Up a Home Office

“Trying to set up an effective Home Office can be tough.  Location, Lighting, Supplies, Organization, all go into the planning process.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Who’s the best boss ever? You are, of course.

If you plan to begin your own business soon or have already experienced the joys of self-employment, you need a dedicated place to work. You look and feel more professional and you’ll be more productive in your own space. It’s also a great way to separate work and home life.

(Credit: gpointstudio/Shutterstock)

We’ve broken down the steps you need to take to create the most efficient and comfortable workspace.

1. Decide on a Location

Converting an extra bedroom into an office makes the most sense, but never locate your business in the room you sleep in. Experts say that’s a sure way to encourage insomnia. If all the rooms are in use, try a large closet or as a last resort, a quiet corner of the dining room, kitchen or recreation room. Look for a place with some degree of privacy, a good source of natural light and a low noise level.

(Credit: Qiwen/Shutterstock)

2. Make a List of Work Tasks

This itemization helps you determine the furniture you need – a desk and chair for sure – but will clients meet here, as well, and need their own sitting space? If you generate paperwork, you’ll require files and file cabinets. Do you need storage space for the products you sell?

(Credit: pics721/Shutterstock)

3. Organize the Space

Place your furniture and equipment by frequency of use. Computers and printers used everyday should be close together and within easy reach. Also, have a designated space for papers or bills that need processing immediately. Put office supplies like pens, pencils and paperclips in small containers or on trays on top of your desk.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

4. Remember Your Health

An ergonomic chair makes sitting a little less fatiguing. Place your computer so the top of the screen is at eye level and your feet rest flat on the floor. Add a foot pad if you’re short.

(Credit: Patryk Kosmider/Shutterstock)

5. Lights and More Lights

If you can, move your desk close to a window to absorb more of that natural light. You still need lamps because the overhead light won’t shed enough brightness on your work area. Add table lamps and floor lamps until you have what you works best. When the sky turns gray for most of the day like it does in the Pacific Northwest, you might invest in alamp especially designed for Seasonal Affective Disorder.

(Credit: MR. INTERIOR/Shutterstock)

6. Add a Planning Zone

Enhance the room with a recliner, comfortable chair and ottoman or even a sofa if you have the square footage. Getting away from your desk spurs your creativity, solves problems and lets you power nap.

(Credit: MR. INTERIOR/Shutterstock)

7. Personalize Your Space

Hang family photos, favorite works of art or certificates of accomplishment. Bring in house plants. They improve your health by purifying the air and helping you breathe better. Burn a scented candle made of essential oils to help you handle certain tasks. Lemon advances clear thinking, lavender calms and peppermint boosts energy.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

8. Stock Up on Supplies

Nothing makes you lose your train of thought or focus like having to run to the office supply store for something. Keep a backup supply of what you use regularly like copy paper, envelopes, pens, staples, stamps and ink cartridges.

(Credit: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock)

9. Change the Paint

To refresh your home office, change the colors of the walls. Choose green for a balanced and restful room, orange for an energetic feel or purple if you need to frequently call on your creativity.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

Originally Published on Pro.com

10 Ways to Add Personality to Your Kitchen

“Want some ideas on how to make your kitchen more ‘you’?  Here are some different approaches to making your kitchen a little more unique.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
One of our favorite spaces in the house, the kitchen can also be one of the most predictable. After all, it typically contains some countertop space, a few appliances and lots of storage. But a little imagination and some inventive styling can softly steer this room toward a look filled with personality. These smart details — some of them integral to the design, some added later — bring a fresh, original feel to a much-loved room.
Eclectic Kitchen by British Standard by Plain English
British Standard by Plain English
1. Add a copper sink. Copper is a hugely popular material, with a long history of use in the kitchen. Often it shows up in pots and pans, but here it’s been fashioned into a sink. More humble than marble and nicely artisanal in feel, a copper sink is an unusual, stylish choice.
Traditional by British Standard by Plain English
British Standard by Plain English
2. Seek out alternative handles. Metal, wood and ceramic are familiar choices for handles and knobs, so going with something a little more unusual will help give your kitchen its own style. Here, leather strap handles blend beautifully with the wooden counter, but it’s the element of surprise they carry that really catches the eye.
Contemporary Kitchen by Blakes London
Blakes London
3. Light it up. Kitchens often feature integrated spotlights and task lighting, but adding a more decorative table lamp to a work surface or sideboard can instantly give a very different feel to the room.
Scandinavian by Sustainable Kitchens
Sustainable Kitchens
4. Soften stainless steel. Stainless steel is a great material for a countertop and much-used in professional kitchens. This kitchen shows how it can be made to look soft and neat rather than seriously industrial when framed by the plywood trim of the cabinets.
Midcentury Kitchen by Designed Space Interior Exterior
Designed Space Interior Exterior
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5. Hang some art. In the quest to make a kitchen practical, we sometimes forget to style it like any other room. Hanging art in the kitchen, close to units and equipment, extends the style found in other areas of the house into this very practical space. The framed painting seen here beautifully matches the cabinets and backsplash.
Transitional Kitchen by Humphrey Munson
Humphrey Munson
6. Make it mirrored. Antiqued mirrored glass brings a softly reflective element to a room and makes a wonderful material for a backsplash. It’s practical and easy to wipe down, but it also boosts the feeling of space and creates depth.
Traditional Kitchen by British Standard by Plain English
British Standard by Plain English
7. Work with paint. A kitchen with paneled walls is the perfect canvas for a creative paint job. Use paint to create the illusion of a backsplash running around the entire room. You can even include the lower cabinets, as shown here.
Modern Kitchen by David Churchill - Architectural Photographer
David Churchill – Architectural Photographer
8. Create a cool toe kick. Toe kicks can be something of an afterthought and generally match the cabinets above, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Here, a stainless steel toe kick creates a reflective, almost glowing strip at the base of these wooden units. It’s a nice, subtle contrast of materials.
Transitional Kitchen by Sigmar
Sigmar
9. Add a vintage piece.
Teaming up contemporary and vintage pieces is a mix-and-match approach that works brilliantly in other rooms but isn’t often used in the kitchen. Hanging a vintage display case to supplement built-in contemporary cabinets adds loads of personality, not to mention lovely visual variety.
Transitional Kitchen by Blakes London
Blakes London
10. Integrate herb storage. Pots of fresh herbs cluttering up your windowsill? Who says they always have to be kept there? A clever alternative is to design an integrated trough into a counter where the herbs can neatly sit. A simple open rack, hung on the wall, is another good alternative.
Originally published on HOUZZ, by Joanna Simmons

When Should You Replace Your Garbage Disposal?

“We take them for granted, since we use them every day.  Then when they stop working like normal, how do you know whether it’s time to repair, or replace?”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Appliances don’t last forever, but sometimes it’s hard to know when to replace one instead of repairing it. With garbage disposals, there are some distinct signs that may give you clues about what to do.

You might consider replacing your kitchen garbage disposal if you notice any of these situations.
It clogs frequently. If you are taking care of your disposal by:

• Always running water during use and for at least 20 seconds after use

• Only disposing of food items approved by your manufacturer

• Cutting up items into small pieces and feeding them in slowly; yet your unit still clogs often, it may be time for a new disposal

Frequent clogs also may signal that you require a larger disposal capacity for your needs, so look into installing a bigger model.
You have to press the reset button a lot. It’s not unusual to have to push the reset button after a clog or after you’ve put large amounts through the disposal, but frequent resetting could mean that the motor is failing and the unit needs replacing.
You can’t get rid of odors. If you’ve tried to freshen your disposal by cleaning it with ice cubes, baking soda and vinegar, citrus peels, and a sink full of dish soap yet odors still linger, the smell may be trapped in the drain lines or in the unit itself. Sometimes the only way to eliminate the smell is to replace the unit.
The blades have become dull. When you notice that food takes a long time to grind or you are getting frequent clogs, it may mean that the blades are no longer sharp enough and you need a new unit.
You have a leak that can’t be easily fixed. While some leaks, such as those in drain or dishwasher lines, have simple fixes like tightening connections or replacing O-rings, other leaks are more complicated and costly. If you have a leak in the sink flange or in other parts of the unit, it may be more cost effective to install a new unit than to repair the old one.
You’re replacing your kitchen sink or dishwasher. While it certainly isn’t always necessary to replace your disposal just because you’re getting a new sink or updating your kitchen appliances, it may be a good time to do so, especially if your unit is over ten years old. Since you already have professionals on the site, it may be more cost efficient and convenient to go ahead and replace an older unit instead of waiting for it to fail at a future date.
Repair costs meet or exceed the replacement cost. Do the math and see if repairing the disposal is going to cost as much or more than getting a new unit.

Originally published on AmericanHomeShield.com

Powder Room Vanity Styles With Personality

“Coming up with ‘different’ ideas for a powder room can be challenging.  Get some ideas on how to make that small space as unique as any other space in the home.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
From traditional to contemporary, approaches to the powder room vanity allow for lots of creativity. And because of the modest scale, this is a place where you can indulge in higher-end materials and design solutions that might be too much for the budget in larger rooms. Let these 11 delightful examples of beautifully combined colors, shapes and details inspire your own powder room project.
Traditional Powder Room by Marie Meko, Allied ASID
Marie Meko, Allied ASID
Richly Toned Traditional

Vanity: 36 inches wide by 18 inches deep by 35 inches high

Everything in this space is richly expressed in dark, intimate tones. The extraordinary Trumeau mirror by E.J. Victor, the integrated picture frame and the sumptuous tile flooring make the room particularly interesting.

A dark-stained wood cabinet from Hooker Furniture has been converted to a vanity,making a lavatory out of a beautiful piece of furniture. (The cabinet is no longer available, according to the designer, but the company is continuously coming out with new designs.) The oval white porcelain sink undermounts to a black solid-surface countertop and backsplash, and its two-lever handle faucet is in oil-rubbed bronze.

The branch detail in the wallpaper reflects the detail of the unique towel bar. Finishing things off are two metal-shaded sconces with brass details, mounted at 60 to 66 inches above the floor.

Traditional Powder Room by Charmean Neithart Interiors, LLC.
Charmean Neithart Interiors, LLC.
Asian-Influenced Transitional

Vanity: Approximately 32 inches wide by 20 inches deep by 34 inches high

The nearly black wallpaper with sheen gives this small space drama and highlights the detail in the vanity cabinet, detail that’s further emphasized by the coordinating trim of the mirror and the finish on the sconces. The diagonal cabinet face detail repeats in the travertine tiles set at 45 degrees. The scheme is otherwise simple, with a single-lever faucet on a solid countertop with an oval undermount sink.

Traditional Powder Room by Design By Lisa
Design By Lisa
Neutral-Toned Traditional

Vanity: 30 inches wide by 22 inches deep by 35 inches high

Though this room employs a conservative color scheme, the detail in the finishes makes an unforgettable impression. The painted vanity cabinet is custom, though similar types are available from a variety of sources. An onyx countertop, called Delicato, the Zoffany Cordoba wallpaper and the quarter-sawn white oak flooring make the space luxurious. The sink is a porcelain rectangular undermount.

The mirror was custom-made, the designer says, but the key is its beveled edge, which achieves a finished look without the need for a frame. Brushed nickel hardware is equally elegant. The small Hudson Valley Lighting chandelier, mounted to the center of the ceiling, adds lots of charm. Notice that the crystal cabinet pulls match the doorknob, which completes the detailing in this space.

Shabby-chic Style Powder Room by Shannon Ggem ASID
Shannon Ggem ASID
Boldly Colorful Traditional

Vanity: 37 inches wide by 18 inches deep by 37 inches high

This powder room quickly transports you to a vacation spot all on its own. The Thibaut wallpaper adds dimension and boldness, and the handpainted distressed cabinet from Cole + Co. gives the space an unexpected rustic twist. The luscious taupe-colored marble countertop, sometimes called Athens gray, holds an undermount oval sink. The silver-framed oval mirror coordinates with the playful Currey & Co. sconces, which in turn mimic the swirls in the wallpaper.

Craftsman Powder Room by Mahoney Architects & Interiors
Mahoney Architects & Interiors
Rounding It Out

Vanity: Approximately 26 inches wide by 20 inches deep by 32 inches high

Rounded fixtures and furnishings can make smaller spaces function more smoothly and give the illusion of a larger space. This 3-foot-wide powder room could easily be overwhelmed by a large, square cabinet, but this rounded solution, along with the wainscot, nicely details the space. The 2-inch hexagonal floor tiles allude to traditional mosaics found in older homes, but the size gives them a fresh feeling.

Notice that the sink type serves as a countertop as well, eliminating the need for a separate piece of material. The mirror frame, custom-made for this project, matches the cabinet material and finish. Similar premanufactured configurations are available from many sources.

Traditional Powder Room by Kathryn Long, ASID
Kathryn Long, ASID
Wallpaper Focus

Vanity: Approximately 25 inches wide by 19 inches deep by 32 inches high

As with the previous example, you can find vanity configurations that have the sink integrated into the cabinet design, like this one. Some come with a faucet already installed. Their detailing gives the look of a piece of furniture rather than a traditional cabinet with a toe kick.

A custom decoupage wall treatment sets this room apart. A local artist installed a collection of maps, menus, articles and pictures collected by the owner as part of a trip to Italy, and the theme is enhanced by the candle sconces. The room is otherwise quite simple.

Key Measurements to Help You Design a Powder Room

Beach Style Powder Room by kelly mcguill home
kelly mcguill home
Open It Up

Vanity: 31.5 inches wide by 18.75 inches deep by 34 inches high

This vanity, the Weathered Oak Single Console Sink from Restoration Hardware, is available in seven wood finishes, depending on your location. Once again, the sink acts as the countertop. The mirrored cabinet is also from RH but doesn’t currently show up on its website, though there are similar options. The wainscot paneling adds greatly to the theme of the space. The ceramic floor tiles resemble brick and are laid in a running bond pattern.

Contemporary Bathroom by Peter S. Balsam Associates
Peter S. Balsam Associates
Contemporary Curves

Vanity: 20⅝ inches wide by 21 inches deep by 34 inches high

This Camber petite vanity by Kohler is available in several finishes, but the sink, called the Camber drop-in, is a separate product and must be bought specifically for use with this configuration. This solution may be a great fit if you have a really tight space and the circular shape fits your design.

With the mosaic tile seen here, this will be a more expensive scheme than most. You will also need to purchase a faucet; the one shown here is in a satin nickel finish. The sink is available in three versions. The first has no opening for the plumbing, meaning you would use it with a wall-mounted faucet. The other two have openings for the plumbing fixtures, either a single-handle faucet or the two-handle type seen here.

Contemporary Powder Room by josh wynne construction
josh wynne construction
Custom Creations

Vanity: Approximately 26 inches wide by 18 inches deep by 30 inches high

If you know a very good carpenter, you may be able to create your own custom design, as has been done here. This contractor custom-fabricated the concrete countertop and placed a vessel sink atop it, with the bronze faucet set at an angle. Varying sizes of Porcelanosa tiles line the wall, and a coordinated mosaic tile covers the floor. The mirror, found at an estate sale, floats on the chartreuse-painted wall above the tile wainscot.

Contemporary Powder Room by Bill Fry Construction - Wm. H. Fry Const. Co.
Bill Fry Construction – Wm. H. Fry Const. Co.
Contemporary Lines

Vanity: Approximately 30 inches wide by 22 inches deep by 34 inches high

This semi-custom solution uses a Kohler product, or similar, for the sink. The contractor custom-built the base to complete the vanity. Ann Sacks Clodagh shield tiles line the back wall, adding dimension, shade and shadow to the scheme. The teardrop pendant provides lighting, and a framed beveled mirror, also custom, completes the contemporary theme.

Midcentury Powder Room by David Heide Design Studio
David Heide Design Studio
When in Doubt, Float

Vanity: 30 inches wide by 21⅜ inches deep by 19 inches high (mounted about 14 inches above the floor)

This Kohler product, called Traverse, requires a selection of the cabinet, sink and faucet. With the hexagonal multicolored mosaic wall tile, this is also going to be a more expensive solution. The floor tiles are a rectangular shape about 6 inches wide and 24 inches long, laid in the running bond pattern. The dramatic internally lit round chrome mirror suits the modern design. This scheme could easily be replicated in less expensive finishes.

By Steven Randel, originally published on HOUZZ

First-Time Homebuyer Guide

“This is a good high level overview of the steps and process of buying a home.  There are more steps once you start working with a Realtor and put an offer in on a home, but this is a great starting place.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team 

Avoid First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes with This Checklist

By Jennifer Nelson, published on HouseLogic

A real yard. Closets bigger than your average microwave. The freedom to decorate however you darn well please! Making the switch from renting to owning is exhilarating, but many rookie homebuyers find the process trickier to navigate than they expected. This is why we created our First-Time Homebuyer Checklist. The 12-month timeline will help you sidestep common mistakes, like paying too much interest or getting stuck with the wrong house. (Yep, it happens!)

12 Months Out

Check your credit score. Get a copy of your credit report at annualcreditreport.com. The three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) are each required to give you a free credit report once a year. A Federal Trade Commission study found one in four Americans identified errors on their credit report, and 5% had errors that could lead to higher rates on loans. Avoid last-minute bombshells by checking your score long before you’re ready to make an offer. And work diligently to correct any mistakes.

Determine how much you can afford. Figure out much house you can afford and want to afford. Lenders look for a total debt load of no more than 43% of your gross monthly income (called the debt-to-income ratio). This figure includes your future mortgage and any other debts, such as a car loan, student loan, or revolving credit cards.

There are plenty of calculators on the web to help you determine what you can afford. If you’re pushing the limits, start reducing your debt-to-income ratio now. To get a reality check on what you may actually be spending every month, use this worksheet.

Make a down payment plan. Most conventional mortgages require a 20% down payment. If you can swing it, do it. Your loan costs will be much less, and you’ll get a better interest rate. If, however, you’re not quite able to save the full amount, there are many programs that can help. FHA offers loans with only a 3.5% down payment. But they require mortgage insurance premiums, which will drive up your monthly payments. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides a list of nonprofit homebuying programs by state. Also check with credit unions; and your employer might even have an assistance program.

As you’re planning your savings strategy, keep in mind that banks like you to “season” your money. That is, they like to see that you’ve had stable funds in your account for 60 to 90 days before applying for a loan. Don’t worry: You can still use a financial gift from a family member or bonus received near the time you buy.

9 Months Out

Child exploring a closet at an open houseImage: Emily Dunham

Prioritize what you most want in your new home. What’s most important in your new home? Proximity to work? A big backyard? An open floor plan? Being on a quiet street? You’ll make a much better decision on what home to buy if you focus on your priorities. If it’s a joint decision, now is the time to work out any differences to avoid frustration and wasted time. Perhaps most important: Know what trade-offs you’re willing to make.

Research neighborhoods and start visiting open houses. But now’s when the fun begins, too. Use property listing sites, such as realtor.com, to find out about neighborhoods, public transport, and cost of living.

Start visiting open houses to get an idea of what kind of homes are in your price range and what neighborhoods appeal the most. Seeing potential homes will also keep you motivated to continue reducing your debts and saving for your down payment.

Budget for miscellaneous homebuying expenses. Buying a home has some miscellaneous upfront costs. A home inspection, title search, propery survey, and home insurance are examples. Costs vary by locale, but expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars. If you don’t have the cash, start saving now.

Start a home maintenance account. Speaking of saving, start the good habit now of putting a little aside each month to fund maintenance, repairs, and home emergencies. It’s bad enough to have to call a plumber. It’s worse if you’re paying credit card interest on that plumbing bill.

6 Months Out

Collect your loan paperwork. Banks are very particular when it comes to mortgage loans. They demand a lot of paperwork. What they’ll want from you includes:

  • W-2 forms — or business tax return forms if you’re self-employed — for the last two to three years
  • Personal tax returns for the past two to three years
  • Your most recent pay stubs
  • Credit card and all loan statements
  • Your bank statements
  • Addresses for the past five to seven years
  • Brokerage account statements for the most recent two to four months
  • Most recent retirement account statements, such as 401(k)

If you start collecting these documents now, it’ll lessen the stress when it’s time to get your loan. Bonus: Looking closely at your loan documents each month will also help you stay focused on saving for your down payment and keeping your debt-to-income ratio low.

Research lenders and REALTORS®. Start interviewing REALTORS®, specifically buyers’ agents. A buyer’s agent will work in your best interest to find you the right property, negotiate with the seller’s agent, and shepherd you through the closing process. Your agent also can be instrumental in finding a lender who’s familiar with first-time homebuyer programs.

Even better, look for a mortgage broker, who will shop for a competitive loan rate for you among multiple lenders, unlike a bank, which can only offer its own products.

3 Months Out

People touring an open houseImage: Jesse Keen

Get pre-approved for your loan. At this point, if you’ve been following this timeline, your credit score, paperwork, and down payment should be on track. You’ve done your research on lenders and buyers’ agents. Now it’s time to start working with them. First you’ll need to get pre-approved for a mortgage.

Make an appointment with your lender or mortgage broker and bring all your paperwork. He’ll run a credit check on you and tell you how much of a loan you’re approved for. It often makes sense to borrow less than the maximum the lender allows so you can live comfortably. Draft a budget that accounts for mortgage payments, insurance, maintenance, and everything else you have going on in your life.

Start shopping for your new home. One you’re pre-approved, the buyer’s agent you’ve chosen will be able to target homes that meet your priorities in your price range. This way you won’t be wasting time looking at homes you can’t afford.

2 Months Out

Make an offer on a home. It usually takes at least four to six weeks to close on a home. So if you have a firm move-out date, allow enough time to deal with any hiccups that can delay closing.

Get a home inspection. One of the first things you’ll want to do after an offer is accepted is have a home inspector look at the property. If the home inspector finds something that needs repair, that’s a common example of something that can delay closing.

In the Last Month

Triple-check that all your financial documents are in order and review all lending documents before closing. You’re in the home stretch! If you’ve been keeping your documents up to date, and your down payment is in reserve, these final steps are the easiest. Reviewing the mortgage documents is probably the most difficult. Your agent can help guide you through them.

Get insurance for your new home. Don’t forget to secure insurance before closing. You’ll need to bring proof of insurance to closing.

Do a final walk-through. Do a final walk-through of your new home, usually a day or two before closing, to make sure the home is in the shape you and the seller have agreed upon.

Get a cashier’s check or bank wire for cash needed at closing. Make sure you get an exact amount of cash needed for closing. You’ll get that number a few days before closing so you can secure a cashier’s check or arrange to have the money wired. Regular checks aren’t accepted.

That’s it. Congratulations!

Read more: http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/home-loans-mortgages/first-time-home-buyer-guide/#ixzz3prP3fQFN
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Design Your Closet for the Real World

“Tired of digging through your closet to find things?  Get organized and speed up the morning process.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
A poorly designed closet costs the same to build as a well-designed closet. It’s how you design and use the space that makes the difference. If you’re starting with a clean slate, this guide will help you decide what to build, what to store and how to get the most out of every inch of space.
Transitional Home Office by Clever Closet Company
Clever Closet Company
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Only build what you need. Decide how big or small you need your closet to be before you start on the design. It’s tempting to see a big, blank wall and sacrifice it to a closet without considering what the contents will be.

By building your closet based only on how much hanging space you need, even a small bedroom can retain a feeling of spaciousness, with room for a large bed, a desk and maybe more. You can also end up spending less than half the money you would if you opted for a full-wall closet.

by Clever Closet Company
Clever Closet Company
Get organized. If you want to maximize space, group clothes of a similar size together — don’t waste an inch. If you have a group of similar items that amounts to at least 20 inches in width when hung together, it’s worth giving them a separate section.
Traditional Closet by Clever Closet Company
Clever Closet Company
By being that specific, in this closet I have managed to squeeze in an extra drawer between the double hanging sections, as well as some handy shelves.

Tip: Hang the top rod high enough so you have enough space between the bottom of the hanging clothes and the second rod underneath.

by Clever Closet Company
Clever Closet Company
Focus on ergonomics. Nobody wants to crawl on the floor to find their summer shorts, and who can be bothered bending down to put bags or scarves on a shelf at knee height? Design your space more ergonomically and you’ll notice things are far easier to find. It will also be much easier to keep your closet tidy.

Positioning shelves above the hanging space is a smart move ergonomically, and making your shelves just 14 inches deep ensures you won’t lose things at the back. Space the shelves only 10 inches apart and things won’t migrate to the never-never. You can stack right to the top of the shelf because there’s no need to reach to the back. Do it this way and you’ll hardly ever need to reorganize your wardrobe — things have nowhere to go.

Tip: Shelf widths at 12-inch increments are best because folded clothes average 12 inches across and 14 inches deep.

Traditional Closet by Ardesia Design
Ardesia Design
Skip the drawers. Drawers add significantly to the price of a built-in closet, restrict the layout and waste space. Be resourceful with your space instead. If you already have a dresser or bedside tables in the room, perhaps that’s all you need for underwear and socks. Sweaters and T-shirts are best placed on open shelves where you can see them easily.
by Clever Closet Company
Clever Closet Company
Add storage elsewhere. When you have a small space, the trick is using every bit of storage fully. I often achieve this by not having anything but hung clothes in the closet. There’s little point in storing folded clothes on deep closet shelves — it ends up a mess. Instead, use deep space for hanging clothes, then put folded clothes and shoes elsewhere.

In my son’s room, seen here, we have deep drawers under the bed for shoes and sports gear. This is great because he can just dump them in and then open the drawers and see them easily when he needs them (although apparently not as easily as he can see them on the floor!). This is a much better option than storing the items at the bottom of a closet or under the bed.

See more of this bedroom

Traditional Closet by Design 13
Design 13
Get smart with your shoes. If space is tight, storing all your shoes in the closet may not be possible. If you can fit them in, however, aim to stash them on shelves at mid-height so you can see them.

Whether you choose regular shelves, slide-out shelves or drawers, there’s no need to give shoes too much room to move — they’re usually only 12 inches deep and will fit into some pretty tight places.

This drawer method allows you to use the full depth of the closet, and makes shoes easy to see and access.

by Clever Closet Company
Clever Closet Company
If you can’t fit shoes in the closet, a shallow, purpose-built cabinet is a good alternative.
by Clever Closet Company
Clever Closet Company
Don’t waste your money on ‘clever’ accessory storage. Storage devices for accessories can be useful, but be selective. If a gadget involves more than one action to perform its role, you’ll probably grow tired of it. I find most closet accessories are a waste of money and space in a small closet.

What does work well are racks for belts, ties and scarves, which slide in and out. Or if you don’t mind things flapping on the back of a hinged door, you can install racks there.

by Clever Closet Company
Clever Closet Company
Go for flexibility. The great thing about this closet is that the hanging rods insert into the same holes as the shelf supports, so you can switch them around as needed. In summer, you could use rods to hang blouses, and in winter swap in shelves to hold sweaters. Store the off-season gear out of the way on the top shelf.
Closet by FormFunctionNT
FormFunctionNT
Don’t forget to make use of the rest of the house. Your bedroom closet doesn’t have to bear the brunt of your your life’s clutter. Store as much as possible in the utility areas of your home to save on the cost of a built-in closet.

A shelving system such as this stores just as much as a standard built-in closet and for a fraction of the price. I installed something similar to this in my laundry rather than putting a built-in closet into a temporary bedroom for my daughter. Now that my daughter has left home, I have excellent versatile storage in the laundry room. The system is easily adjustable, so I can use it for anything and add shelves if needed.

Originaly published on HOUZZ, by Sally Hart

5 Ways to Cut Your Heating Costs

“The colder weather is starting to show up and it’s time to consider how you will control your heating bills.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Winter doesn’t have to mean higher heating bills. Here are a few simple home improvement tips you can use to help keep your house warm and your bills under control.

home mattersPhoto by: iStock

Following these easy tips and tricks can help keep your bill from skyrocketing as temperatures plummet.

1. It’s the mantra of dads worldwide – don’t turn up the heat, put on a sweater. By maintaining a steady air temperature and changing your body temperature, you’ll nix bill spikes. For every degree you lower your heat in the 60 – 70 degree range, you can save up to 5% on heating costs.

Read More: Save Money with a Learning Thermostat

2. Installing plastic film over your windows is an extremely affordable do-it-yourself project. Cutting down on the drafts from windows can save you about 14% on your monthly bill.

Read More: Energy Tip: Prepping Your Home for Winter

3. Another source of drafts is your front door. A simple door sweep will keep the heat in and cold out while likely costing you less than $10 at a home or hardware store.

4. Opening shades on west- and south-facing windows will allow sunlight in during the day. Conversely, closing these shades at night will help keep your heat in.

Read More: Tap Into Year-Long Benefits with Window Treatments

5. Make sure that you don’t have furniture blocking your heating vents. If you have a bed or sofa in front of a vent, your HVAC will work harder than necessary to maintain your desired room temperature.

These five tips should be a simple way to help out with your heating costs.

Originally appearing on AmericanHomeShield.com

13 Storage Solutions to Banish the Clutter

“It’s amazing all the ‘stuff’ we accumulate over time.  And then you realize you have no place to put anything any more and your home is looking cluttered.  It might be time to get creative.”
Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team
Don’t worry.  I’m not going to tell you to throw out your stuff or give it away. And I’m not going to give you advice on how to part with it. Instead, I’m going to give you design tips on how to get it out of sight, quickly and easily. The trick to living without clutter is to make it super easy for you and your family to clean up fast. Follow these tips, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your home can go from chaotic to calm in no time.
Modern Dining Room by WORKSTEAD
WORKSTEAD
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1. Closed storage. Everyone likes the look of open shelving when everything is lined up just so, but the truth is, it’s not always practical to keep everything in perfect order. Closed storage can look just as great, when it’s well thought out. If you have lots of stuff, stay away from open shelving whenever you can, and conceal your stuff behind doors and drawers.
Contemporary Kitchen by Bunker Workshop
Bunker Workshop
2. Kitchen. Keep your counters clear. Dedicate a space for small appliances that’s easy for you to access. Pullout shelves make it easy to store heavier appliances, like blenders and coffee makers.

Discover more kitchen storage solutions

Contemporary Kitchen by JACK ROSEN CUSTOM KITCHENS
JACK ROSEN CUSTOM KITCHENS
If you don’t have the luxury of space for a dedicated appliance cabinet, consider creating an appliance nook or an appliance garage on your counter to tuck them out of the way and out of sight.
Traditional Staircase by Ben Herzog
Ben Herzog
3. Stairs. Under the stairs is always a great place to hide stuff, but it’s easy for that space to turn into a black hole if it’s just an open area. Use pullouts to organize and make that space easy to access.

Browse more clever uses for the space under the stairs

Contemporary Entry by Affecting Spaces
Affecting Spaces
4. Foyer. This is the one space where open shelving really makes sense, so shoes and boots can properly air out. Stinky shoes that share storage with coats will inevitably make the coats smell a little funky.
Modern Bathroom by Wende Woodworking LLC
Wende Woodworking LLC
5. Bathroom. The same rules apply for the bathroom as for the kitchen. Keep your counters clear of stuff. Use a vanity with drawers. Don’t even consider a pedestal sink or a vanity with doors if you tend to be a hoarder. Get the most convenient, easy-to-use storage with drawers. (The drawers can even be organized.)
Modern Bathroom by Bill Fry Construction - Wm. H. Fry Const. Co.
Bill Fry Construction – Wm. H. Fry Const. Co.
And don’t stop at vanity storage. Maximize your storage by using your mirror as a medicine cabinet as well. If you don’t like the feel of a bulky medicine cabinet at your sink, recess it into the wall. This can often create even deeper storage.

Should you go with a recessed or wall-mounted bathroom mirror?

Contemporary Kids by Scott Weston Architecture Design PL
Scott Weston Architecture Design PL
6. Kids’ room. You may have to remind your children a hundred times that they actually have storage under their bed, but a bed with built-in drawers can help them clean up after themselves.
Modern Family Room by Patrick Perez Architect
Patrick Perez Architect
7. Living room. Even if you try to keep stuff out of the living room, it will eventually migrate back to your more commonly used spaces. Build or buy storage (at least 24 inches deep) with large doors and deep drawers. It’s all about the ease of throwing stuff in there quickly.
Modern Garage And Shed by Closet Factory
Closet Factory
8. Garage. If your house is designed to be accessed from the garage, this is a great idea for keeping more stuff from entering the house. Invest in a well-constructed storage unit to make the most of this space.
Traditional Family Room by S.A.N Design Group, Inc.
S.A.N Design Group, Inc.
9. Bay window. As a designer, I’m always struggling with how to best deal with a bay window when I’m laying out a space. I love this idea of squaring off the wall and using that space as trunk-style storage.

Note: It’s really important that your window storage has locking hardware to keep the lid open. It makes it much easier to clean up faster.

Modern Dining Room by Ogawa Fisher Architects
Ogawa Fisher Architects
10. Indoor furniture. It’s such a bonus when furniture does double duty. If you are having a bench built for seating, I recommend you ask the millworker to build drawers into the face of the bench. It’s a really easy and clean way to add more storage.
Contemporary Landscape by C.O.S Design
C.O.S Design
11. Outdoor furniture. When planning your outdoor space, always create a storage space that is large and waterproof. You don’t want to have to bring all your outdoor stuff indoors when the weather changes.

How to keep your outdoor furniture looking new

Traditional Basement by Case Design & Remodeling Indy
Case Design & Remodeling Indy
12. Basement. This is another area that doesn’t always need closed storage, especially if it’s a space dedicated to storage. Stock up on budget racks and store everything you don’t want to part with but don’t actually use. If you apply the Pareto principle, you probably use only 20 percent of your stuff. So that means you can store the other 80 percent.
Contemporary Basement by C3 Design
C3 Design
If you want to use your basement as living space, then use the closed-storage method to hide that other 80 percent of your stuff.
Contemporary Closet by Organized Living
Organized Living
13. Final tip. If you are working on decluttering, don’t let the state of the inside of your cabinets or drawers deter you from clearing the stuff out of your living space. Once you get a sense of what it’s like to live without clutter all around you, the urge to organize your closets and drawers will come. The first step to clutter-free living is to get the stuff out of sight.
Originally posted on HOUZZ, by Gillian Lazanik

Lifespan of Modern Home Appliances

“Wondering if it’s time to fix or replace your appliance.  Here are some average lifespans of 7 major appliances.” 

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Homeowners often assume that with an increase in technology comes an improvement of everyday life. So it can come as a surprise that when appliance manufactures add tech, like sensors and displays, they are actually shortening the product’s lifespan.

home mattersPhoto by: American Home Shield

Major home appliances like washers, stoves and even refrigerators have plugged into the digital revolution thanks to the introduction of smart appliances by brands like LG and Samsung. You can now do things like scan food items into your fridge, and it will then make recipe recommendations based off of the current contents — that’s one less excuse for ordering takeout.

Unfortunately, the added bells and whistles have overshadowed the fact that appliances just don’t last as long as they use to. The current average lifespan of major home appliances is around 10-15 years — compared to roughly 20-30 years when appliances were mostly mechanical in nature. That’s why your mom’s avocado-green washing machine lasted so long.

Today, the presence of LCD screens, Wi-Fi and even load-sensitive sensors have increased the vulnerability of our modern appliances — the more gadgets, the more things that can fail. This, coupled with thinner plastic parts replacing the more durable porcelain and copper parts of the past means more calls to the repairman. Just like our cars, home appliances were once bulky behemoths made of heavier, more resilient materials.

Related:
High-tech Kitchen Appliances to Make Your Life Easier
Get the Most Out of Your Household Appliances

However, there are two simple recommendations on how to avoid premature breakdowns with modern appliances. First, simply reading through the manual and getting a sense of how to properly clean and maintain your appliance is highly recommended to preserve its lifespan. Second, when problems do arise, don’t jump the gun and swap it for a new one. If the appliance has not yet exceeded the average lifespan, chances are fixing the specific problem and keeping it for its full lifespan will save you more in the long-run.


Click here to download graphic

Although the lifespan of major appliances has decreased over the years, the added technology has greatly improved our lives. For what they now lack in years, these modern machines make up for in energy efficiency and technological versatility. It’s a small price to pay for managing more productive lives in our fast-paced digital age.

Originally appearing on American Home Shield