Author Archives: Cari

About Cari

Cari Barron, owner and founder of Contractor Hotline, purchased a home in need of various repairs in 2002. The process to find a quality home remodeling contractor proved to be a complex challenge. The first-hand experience was the inspiration behind founding Contractor Hotline in 2006. Connect with her on Google+

Not-So-Sexy Home Maintenance Must-Do’s

Winter is hard on homes. Spring is fast approaching and the best time to inspect the home’s exterior for damage caused over the winter.

Start with a visual assessment of the full exterior and compile a list of any noticeable damage or areas that need improvement. Pay special attention to the roof and gutters, siding, paint, windows and doors, chimney, the deck or porch, and fences.

Roof & Gutters

The roof and gutters are a home’s first line of defense against the elements. Being proactive about maintaining them will protect your home and help to prevent future costly repairs.

Check for the following during your inspection. If you suspect any concerns, or your roof is nearing 20 years old, you should have a professional inspection.

Replace curling, buckling, cracked, or missing shingles
Ensure flashing is firmly adhered around skylights, vent pipes, and chimneys
Clean debris from roof and valleys
Apply moss retardant, if needed
Ensure gutters are secured and sloped correctly for proper drainage
Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent leaks and back-up
Seal all gutter seams where leaks are evident

Siding

We don’t often think about maintaining siding until we see mildew, cracks or holes, and even broken or missing pieces. With a little preventive care, siding upkeep or repairs will be minimal, the product will last much longer, and the outside of the home will continue to look its best (think curb appeal!). The proper siding can also increase energy efficiency and the home’s value.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is an affordable, resilient, and versatile product. Although mostly maintenance free, vinyl siding must be checked regularly for cracks and broken or missing pieces. It should also be washed regularly to prevent dirt and mildew build-up.

Fiber-Cement Siding

Fiber-cement siding is a cost-effective material that emulates wood and requires little maintenance. Annual inspections are recommended to spot any cracked or broken siding. Where accessible, cleaning when needed with a low-pressure garden hose is usually adequate. Avoid pressure washing.

Cedar Siding

Cedar or wood siding is a popular choice in the Pacific Northwest. Make sure the siding is properly sealed or painted as moisture is wood’s worst enemy. Termites or other pests can be detrimental; regular inspections are recommended. Other things to look for are cracks or breaks in the wood, which can lead to moisture leaks. Like all siding, cleaning the exterior regularly is important and will help you notice any potential areas in need of repair.

While every type of siding requires slightly different care the most important thing is to prevent moisture from getting past the siding, thus shortening the lifespan of the product and its effectiveness to protect the home. Regular inspections and cleaning will minimize siding repairs or the need for siding replacement.

Paint

Paint on the outside of a home is more than just for show. In addition to providing a visual pop, a quality exterior paint job acts as a protective layer between the home’s siding and the elements. If the paint starts to flake and deteriorate the siding becomes more susceptible to damage.

Regular check-ups are important to make sure the paint isn’t chipping, thus exposing siding, or window and door frames, to potential rot or mold. There are special paints with additives to help prevent mildew or mold from building up on surfaces. Regular cleanings will also help. Staying on top of minor repairs and regular touch-up painting will help maximize the overall life of the paint job.

Windows & Doors

The ‘eyes’ of a home allow natural light inside, an especially important feature during long winter months. Depending on how energy efficient they are they can also let in unwanted cold or heat. Regardless of how energy efficient your windows and doors they still require some routine maintenance to be the most effective.

Check doors and windows for air leaks. Keep door and window tracks free of dirt. Check for condensation, mold, and properly working locks and hinges. Once a year clean all frame surfaces, tracks, check for sealed joints, and ensure all windows and doors open and close with ease.

Chimney Care

Although not all homes have a chimney, those that do are often older so maintaining it is even more important. If you use the fireplace regularly during the heating season, the chimney should be cleaned annually. Doing so in the spring will avoid the fall rush.

From the outside, inspect for any mortar or brick damage. Cracked or crumbling mortar should be removed and replaced, known as re-pointing. If you find significant mortar or brick damage it is generally best to consult with a professional.

Decks

When the first warm days of summer arrive, you’ll be grateful your deck is ready to BBQ or to simply relax and enjoy the weather. A thorough cleaning and inspection is the first step.

Different types of decks require slightly different cleaning methods. Choose an appropriate cleaner for your type of deck. They vary for wood and composite surfaces. Most of the time a soft to medium bristle brush or push broom is a sufficient tool, followed by a rinse with the garden hose. If using a pressure washer, avoid damaging the deck by using the right tip or nozzle for the job.

Once the deck is clean, inspect for rot. Make sure all wood posts, beams, planks, and stairs are secure. Re-secure or replace any loose, broken, or rotted sections. Applying a sealer to a wood deck will ensure its longevity.

Fences

Just as you inspected the deck, walk the full perimeter of the fence and check for any weak spots, loose nails or planks, or loose and damaged posts.

If your fence is constructed of wood, mildew can be a nuisance. Scrub the fence with a mildew cleaner to prevent build-up. If you want to give your fence a facelift and extend its longevity, paint or stain the fence every few years.

Have Some Fun!

Home maintenance doesn’t have to be all ho-hum. While you’re at it, use the opportunity to enhance your personal outdoor space in ways you will enjoy for years to come.

An easy and inexpensive way to make the most of your outdoor space is to add or build a fire pit. A cozy fire extends the amount of time you can comfortably spend outdoors and provides a conversational gathering place for family and guests.

Ensure your backyard and deck have ample lighting to keep the party vibes high. The choices are endless from landscape lighting, to LED patio lights, to solar options.

If you really want to go all out, consider an outdoor kitchen. This more substantial improvement will elevate your dining experience and creates a space for year-round entertainment.

Making exterior home maintenance part of your spring routine will keep your home well-maintained and looking beautiful. Preventive care will save time and money in the long run.

Free Design Consultation, Offer Expires Soon

Start your remodel with Contractor Hotline’s homeowner/contractor matching service.

COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN CONSULTATION – $250 value for a new project request made before February 15, 2020. Click Here to Schedule!

The first step toward a successful remodel is design. If you have ever struggled to decide on a paint color or piece of furniture, imagine all the decisions involved in a complete remodel.

Working with a designer ensures you get the new room you love now and for years to come.

COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN CONSULTATION OFFER INCLUDES:

FREE one-hour design consultation with award winning designer Genay Bell, Genay Bell Interior Design.
Meet in your home where both you and Genay can best visualize your dreams.
Learn how a professional designer can help turn your remodeling dreams into reality.
Personalized design proposal with anticipated time commitment and investment.
Confidence to begin your dream remodel!
Must schedule through Contractor Hotline before February 15, 2020.

TURN YOUR REMODEL DREAMS INTO REALITY

Contractor Hotline is there for you every step of the way, from design to finish!

Contact us by February 15, 2020 to receive the complimentary design offer.

Roof Now. Waiting Can Be Expensive.

By the time your roof tells you it needs replacing, you’ve missed the least expensive window of opportunity. Roof leaks can go undetected for years. By the time you notice moisture leaching through inside your home, you could have a significant repair on your hands.

Check your paperwork from the last time you put on a new roof—was it 7 years ago? 10 years? Longer?

If you bought your home within the last 5 years, do you know the age of your roof? Check the house inspection report and see. It’s worth looking into this!

EASY TO KNOW IF IT’S TIME FOR A NEW ROOF OR REPAIR

Check for any of these signs

Close to the end of the warranty
Buckling, curling, or missing shingles
Water stains on the ceiling, around windows or doors, or water entering through exhaust vents in the kitchen, bath, or elsewhere
Have a professional inspect the roof at no charge if you suspect any problems or your roof is nearing 20 years old

FIND AN HONEST, RELIABLE, READY-TO-START ROOFER

Contractor Hotline connects you with vetted professionals ready to complete your new roof or roof repair. Take the guesswork out of the contracting process. Move forward quickly, with confidence.

One call with us brings you up to three roofing contractors to choose from
Experts available for roofs with unique lines, solar panels, and skylights
All roof types including composite, metal, shake, and flat roofs
We screen every contractor we recommend and monitor licensing credentials and contractor performance
You meet with the contractors and hire who you want
FREE SERVICE TO YOU!
We provide pre-screened contractors for just about any home improvement project you can think of. Just ask!

New Year, New Kitchen Trends

Now is the perfect time to start planning home improvement updates in 2020. The kitchen is the perfect place to start. A new year also means new kitchen remodeling trends. Better use of space and functionality are common drivers behind a kitchen remodel. Once the important decisions are made for improving the flow of the room and its functionality, the fun part (and often most time-consuming part) begins – selecting finish materials. This is where looking at the latest kitchen trends can be helpful.

Kitchen ‘trends’ are exactly as the word suggests, a trend. Home improvement updates should reflect your personal design preferences, while being timeless and practical. Below are five of our favorite trends for 2020 that are just that and likely to be here for the long term.

COLOR POP

This trend has been popular for many years, not only in the kitchen but other rooms throughout the home. Nothing can add an instant impression like a colorful accent wall, and kitchens are abundant with opportunities. When choosing a color decide how much of a commitment you are willing to make. Choosing a color is a very personal choice. Make sure it is a color that pleases you and coordinates well with adjoining rooms. It is also a relatively easy and inexpensive improvement that can be easily changed. A good wall to paint to not create too much of a ‘pop’ is a wall that is broken up by cabinets, a window, or appliances.

STONE AGE

Skip the scrubbing and constant dirty-looking countertops and transition into a timeless, mid-century modern design. Bring back the stone age! Marble or quartz offers a classic design and requires less upkeep. Not to mention it pairs well with light or dark cabinets. If replacing all the countertops blows the budget, consider a subtle marble accent piece on a kitchen island or cutting block.

REUSABLE, REPURPOSED WOOD

Many home improvement suppliers are gravitating toward more eco-friendly materials. Cabinets, countertops, flooring, and even paint are available in myriad sustainable and ‘green’ options. Sustainable materials such as bamboo, and salvaged or reclaimed wood, are becoming increasingly popular. Reclaimed wood is from materials previously used in the construction of a building, whereas salvaged wood remains in a more natural state. Bamboo is extremely durable, making it an ideal choice for a high traffic area such as the kitchen. Add a simple stain to create a natural looking, yet environmentally friendly kitchen.

WALLPAPER

Just when you thought wallpaper had its 15 minutes of fame, it’s back! Wallpaper is a simple and inexpensive way to spice up a tired looking kitchen. Not all wallpaper has to be as permanent as it used to be. There are plenty of peel-and-stick papers in trendy designs that are incredibly easy to install and remove. Think about using various styles such as 3D wallpaper, florals, or wallpaper that emulates the look of tile. You can also try painting one wall a solid color and utilizing wallpaper to accent it.

WHITE & GRAY ARE HERE TO STAY

If a minimalistic approach is more appealing white and gray kitchens are gaining popularity. This applies especially to smaller kitchens. White or light colors reflect light, making the space appear larger. A modern white and gray kitchen is versatile and classic and can be combined with any style or design. Make it rustic by pairing with wood furniture painted white, reflecting a farmhouse appeal. For a more retro or mid-century modern look combine white pickled wood with glass materials and smooth lines. For a classic modern look opt for matte materials and aluminum or steel finishes and appliances.

The options are endless when considering a kitchen update or remodel. Whatever you choose, the room should be functional and compliment your lifestyle. Stay true to your personal design preferences, consider ‘trends’ that won’t go out of style, and be mindful of the rest of your home’s design and color scheme. Happy designing!

If you need assistance with any of these projects or upgrades, we can connect you with the appropriate service professionals for your specific needs. Just let us know how we can help by completing our online Work Request today!

Off-Season Savings

If you hired a home improvement contractor in the last couple of years you likely experienced some sticker shock and delays getting your job scheduled. Many things contribute to this all too common phenomenon. While we can’t control a lot of it, there are some things we can do to minimize scheduling delays and possibly save some money. Understanding what drives some of these delays and cost increases is helpful.

For starters, contractors in Western Washington are in high demand. One of their challenges is finding experienced, skilled labor to hire. There is a shortage of skilled labor in Seattle and the surrounding area. Contractors must pay higher wages and benefits to attract and retain good employees. This affects both contractor availability (or lack thereof) and the cost of doing business.

Another factor is material costs. The cost of construction materials is on the rise and expected to continue to increase. Inflation and tariff increases have driven up the cost of lumber, steel and aluminum, concrete, gypsum, and plastic products, to name a few. These costs add up on a sizable remodeling project or upgrade.

These reasons, among many others, affect contractor availability and the increased costs associated with home improvement. If you are willing to get a little creative, there are ways to get around some of this.

OFF-SEASON SAVINGS

Many trades have a high and low season. Scheduling your projects during the off-season whenever possible is worth considering. Doing so will minimize scheduling delays and could save you money. Some trades even offer discounts during the off-season. Be sure to ask!

HEATING & AIR-CONDITIONING (HVAC)

The non-heating and non-cooling seasons are the best time to schedule tune-ups, repairs, or new installs of these systems. Typically, HVAC companies provide both heating and cooling services. Aim to have the heating system serviced in the warmer seasons and the air-conditioning in the cooler seasons.

CHIMNEY CLEANING & REPAIR

Chimney cleaning is a great summer project. Oftentimes this important maintenance project is overlooked until it is time to stoke up that first fire. By then, the chimney sweeps are booked for weeks. Thinking of adding a gas insert? Summer is also an optimal time to refurbish or reface the fireplace or have an existing gas insert serviced.

PAINTING

Exterior painting is seasonal in Western Washington. There isn’t a lot we can do about that. If you need your house painted it will be done as weather allows. The key take-away here is plan ahead. By late spring, most painter’s schedules will be booked for the summer. To ensure your job is completed while the weather allows, start getting bids by late winter and get your job scheduled by April or May, latest.

On the flip side, interior painting can be done year round. However, unless you hire a painter that specializes in or prefers interior painting, you may have a hard time getting a painter’s time and attention during the summer season. If you can, plan your interior painting projects outside of the summer, exterior painting season.

KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS

Remodeling contractors don’t have much down time these days. That said, there is still a spike in spring and a slow-down in late fall for many types of remodeling projects. Many folks don’t want their home to be a construction zone during the winter holidays. This can be a tremendous opportunity to get your remodeling project completed timely and with less competition than the rest of the year. If it’s an option, crash someone else’s home for the holidays or plan a well-deserved vacation and take advantage of this window of time. Keep in mind, a remodel requires some advance planning. Ideally, by summer your plans have been finalized and you are scheduled with your contractor of choice for a fall or winter start date.

DECKS & FENCES

The calls for deck and fence repair and new installations peak in spring and summer. The first warm days of spring beckon us outdoors, perhaps reminding us that our deck or fence is in a state of disrepair. By then, deck and fencing contractors are flooded with calls. Get in line. If you’re lucky, you might get your deck completed in time to enjoy the final dog days of summer. Those same contractors would love your business in the winter. Fall is a great time to start talking with contractors. They are winding down from summer and able to start scheduling winter projects. Your project will be completed and ready to enjoy by the time the first warm days of spring arrive.

ROOFING

We don’t always think of replacing a roof outside of summer, and for good reason. You certainly don’t want to expose your home to adverse weather conditions. A reputable roofing contractor won’t either. Most roofs can be torn off in a matter of hours promptly followed by the installation of a waterproof felt paper. It usually only requires one reliably dry day for this procedure. The new roofing material can be installed during inclement weather. Most roofs will be completed in less than a week, start to finish. There are many opportunities throughout fall, winter, and spring where the weather cooperates for this often overlooked ‘seasonal’ project.

Bathroom Remodeling Trends

A bathroom remodel can be an ideal home improvement project. Depending on how modest or extravagant your plan, it can be one of the more affordable (relatively speaking) improvements when considering a room or home remodeling project. An updated or remodeled bathroom adds value to the home and perhaps most important, personal enjoyment or improved function. You might finally have an excuse to purchase that claw tub you’ve been dreaming about for ages!

The decision to embark on a bathroom remodel can be motivated by many different reasons. The bathroom doesn’t have to be purely functional. It can be a refuge to enjoy a quiet soak after a hectic day. A bathroom remodel can be as simple as a fresh new color and light fixture to something as complex as knocking down a wall to create the bathroom extraordinaire of your dreams, complete with a Jacuzzi tub or sauna.

When planning a bathroom remodel, it helps to look at current bathroom remodeling trends and see what inspires your creative juices. You will likely come across ideas you never considered. They might inspire you to get creative with use of space, color, tile design, or ease of accessibility. Whatever catches your attention, choose a design that aligns with your personal taste and needs and that complements the rest of your home’s style. This is sure to result in a beautiful, functional, and more timeless upgrade.

Another factor and perhaps the most important part of your bathroom remodel design is budget. According to the Remodeling 2019 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com) a midrange bathroom remodel in Seattle can cost $25,000, or more. That said, you can expect to recoup nearly 90% of your investment at resale. Establish a budget that works for you and work with a contractor or designer with that number in mind.

So, let’s get to the fun part and go over a few of the latest trends in bathroom remodel design.

Past & Present

Combine past bathroom design and features such as a traditional, free-standing tub with a modern concept. Add colorful tile around the tub or include a little pop with an accent wall. Another “past” element to play up in the bathroom is a mid-century modern vanity. Its natural wood maintains a retro look, but by adding modern elements like copper accents, it will seamlessly converge past and present design elements.

Natural Textures & Tones

A natural design gives off a luxurious and relaxing vibe. Think ‘spa in your own home.’ A polished configuration inclusive of concrete floors or a wood-paneled ceiling will surely bring a calm ambiance to an otherwise busy room. A light grey or beige color scheme with white trim will ensure the design will outlast color trends. To maximize space, position a marble sink in the middle of limited counter space for an interesting feature.

Black & White + Something Nice

Black and white color schemes will always be a classic among bathroom design renovations. White tiles with small, black elements will always be in style. A new addition, however, is adding an accent tone, pattern, or texture into the mix. Replace faucets and wall hangers with matte ones. Add a color element to the vanity by painting it a dark, navy blue or light periwinkle for two different concepts with the same black, white, and color effect.

Pattern Pop

Patterns can be a little domineering when it comes to bathrooms. As a small space, it’s a delicate balance between not looking too busy and overwhelming, and not having enough pattern that will look out of place. A subtle version of this could include neutral-colored, patterned wallpaper, combined with a large, gold, ornate mirror to give it a French feel. A bolder wallpaper pattern such as oversized flowers will give the room a romantic, whimsical feel.

Enlarging the Space

The above trends focus more on design and ambiance. Another trend is creating more of a sanctuary within your bathroom. Knock out an aligning wall to add counter space to a smaller bathroom or to install a sauna or steam room. Perhaps install an oversized walk-in shower with bench seat to accommodate a multi-generational household. Although these upgrades are more expensive, they all add value to your home and in some cases a more functional space for residing in the home long term.

Before tackling any sort of significant bathroom remodel, you will want to consult with a remodeling contractor, designer, or both. Pictures say a thousand words! Collect pictures from magazines, websites, and Pinterest of features you are drawn to or that you would like to see incorporated into your bathroom remodel. Decide on a budget and share this with the professionals you consult so they can best help you design and build the bathroom of your dreams, without breaking the bank.

If you want some creative design assistance or have a plan that you need a little advice to bring to fruition, we would love to help. Please give us a call at 425-775-9085 or let us know how we can help by completing our online Work Request today!

Make The Most Of It!

As a homeowner, it can be fun and exciting to decide how best to use your space. Let’s put our creative thinking caps on and consider some of the many ways to better use some underutilized space around the home. Whether it is creating more storage, a special cubby for some quiet time, or getting better organized, I bet there is some place in your home that isn’t living up to its fullest potential.

Whether you incorporate a creative idea into a remodeling plan or pull it off as a stand-alone project, it’s always a great time to repurpose a room or underutilized space to fit your current and future needs. In addition to a welcome change, it may also add value to your home.

There are many options when considering unused or underpurposed space. These areas can be premium targets for additional rooms, hobby spaces, a media room, a home office, or even a reading nook (my personal favorite).

For more ideas, you are welcome to refer to our past posts about how to transform an extra room into a man cave or she shed or advice on how to best utilize attic or basement spaces.

A ‘FLEX’ ROOM

Yes, I’m talking about that room. The one that was a yoga room, then an extra closet, and now it’s home to all the stuff you don’t really need but haven’t gotten around to giving away or selling. No more rushing to close the door whenever guests tread too close to the room. Do yourself a favor and transform it into something useful for you or your family.

As more and more people are working from home, it might be useful to turn the room into a home office. Set apart from the traditional clutter of your home, it can be a tranquil space to be productive and creative. A home office might be an obvious choice for an extra room, yet getting creative with the space usually means finding multiple purposes for an area.

A growing family is always in need of additional space. With a few functional pieces you can create a multipurpose room which can transition from an office or playroom to a guest room, with additional hidden storage. Add a stylish ottoman to store extra blankets and towels. Decorative baskets or storage bins keep children’s accessories in one area while easily hiding the clutter from guests. Murphy beds are also making a comeback.

KNOCK ‘EM DOWN

Adding extra space can be as easy and inexpensive as tearing down a wall or two in order to create one large space. Open floor plans often transform closed-in spaces into an open concept floor plan with better natural lighting. If the walls are not load bearing and don’t require moving electrical or plumbing, this renovation project can be inexpensive, yet have limitless possibilities. By tearing down a wall you can finally make room for that large kitchen with an island you have always wanted, with a full bar and wine collection to match. Combine your living room and family room to create a media room where your family and guests can enjoy a hit movie. Your family, guests and your wallet won’t be disappointed.

EXTENDED LAUNDRY ROOM

Instead of trying to hide a laundry or mud room littered with dirty clothes or piles of shoes, why not reinvent the space to an open area with extra storage. If you have pets, and a spare corner in the room, create a dog (or kid) washing area. Add a built-in bench with storage underneath for shoes and shelves and/or hooks above for extra towels and to hang jackets.

AWKWARD CORNERS

Corners are typically underutilized because of awkward placement and furniture not meant to fit in smaller spaces, not to mention the shadows can make it hard to be very functional. This is a fun opportunity to use your creativity for space usage. Make a corner reading nook with bench seats surrounded by books. Or, turn it into a mini office with a fold down desk. Not enough natural light? Do some light construction and add a skylight or Solatube or get creative with a nice reading lamp.

Underutilized spaces can be transformed into just about anything. The opportunities are endless. Get creative on how to best utilize the areas in your home that are just taking up space but not serving you well. It’s easier and less expensive to renovate an existing space than it is to build additional space.

Outdoor Living Spaces, Bringing the Inside Outside!

The weather in the Pacific Northwest is wildly unpredictable. A sunny day in February might be 70 degrees, while April could bring snow flurries. That said, the three months out of the year of near-perfect weather make the other nine months worth the wait. If you like to maximize your time outdoors once the weather is conducive, now is the time to make sure your outdoor living space is ready.

Depending on how much space you have available to work with, the opportunities for elevating your outdoor experience are endless. Is dining alfresco something you enjoy? Consider carving out some underutilized space for an outdoor dining area. Perhaps add a patio or convert an existing patio into an outdoor kitchen. An outdoor fire pit is a cozy place to gather with friends and family after sunset. These are just a few ways to expand your living space and add value to your home.

Patios

If you don’t already have a hard surface in which to transition your outdoor space into an alfresco oasis, perhaps you want to consider adding a patio. Patios add value to the home and can provide a variety of uses. They are the perfect location for a table and chairs, container gardening, or even a canvas for children’s chalk art. Some popular types of patios are stamped concrete and paver patios.

Stamped Concrete: This is a popular option because of the beautiful aesthetics and durability for your outdoor environment. It doesn’t take a lot of maintenance, such as required with a wood deck. Typically, the surface is sealed, which protects and gives the surface a “wet” look. Re-sealing is generally required every three to five years.

Paver Patios: Paver patios are an excellent choice if you’re looking for another long-term option. They are anti-slip, durable, and over time will withstand cracking and weather damage. It also comes with unlimited design options and virtually no maintenance costs. The only disadvantage is the potential weed-growth between the cracks, which isn’t anything a little natural, vinegar-based weed killer can’t solve.

Outdoor Kitchen

Do you love to cook and entertain? Enhance the alfresco dining experience even further by adding an outdoor kitchen, combining a love of cooking with the great outdoors. Adding a kitchen is a larger commitment and investment. Like a patio, it adds value to your home and entertaining options.

Outdoor kitchens are designed to withstand exposure, within reason. Typically, they are constructed with some type of overhead roof cover and open air on the sides. This design, along with a heat source allows for maximum use, nearly year-round. An outdoor kitchen will need to have a water and electrical supply, and possibly natural gas, if available, or propane. Construction and zoning rules are careful considerations for this type of project. Consulting with a certified home improvement contractor who specializes in outdoor upgrades will be helpful.

Sun Protection & Lighting

Keep in mind how your outdoor space will serve you, day and night. By day, you might want some protection from the sun. Just type in sun awnings or sun shades in your favorite browser. It’s amazing the variety of designs and options available. After dark, outdoor lighting plays a large part in the ambience and usefulness of your space. Experiment to find that perfect balance of not having to play hide and seek with your guests while maintaining a soothing glow on those warm summer nights. Don’t forget about pathways. Strategically placed solar stake lights are inexpensive and will help avoid anyone tripping on the journey to your outdoor mecca.

Fire Pits

Another source of light and warmth is an outdoor fire pit. Adding a fire pit to your patio or outdoor kitchen pulls everything, and everyone, together. Common options are gas and wood burning fire pits. Gas is clean and easy to light and doesn’t give off smoke. If you like chopping wood and enjoy a natural flame, then a traditional wood burning fire pit is for you. Be sure to check with your city’s zoning rules to see if wood burning fire pits are allowed in your area.

Each of these outdoor enhancements is a guaranteed way to sizzle up your summer, convince your guests into thinking they stepped onto the pages of Landscaper’s Digest, and get the kids away from being glued to their screens.

There are no bad ideas when it comes to renovating your outdoor space for entertaining. We invite you to get creative. Even the smallest of updates can elevate the outdoor experience for yourself, your family, and your guests. For larger projects such as a kitchen or patio installation, make sure you have a certified contractor who specializes in that specific type of outdoor renovation.

How to Sell Your Home for Maximum Profit

For those planning to sell their home in 2019, spring can be the opportune time to place it on the market. In addition to the right timing, selling a home in a reasonable amount of time for the best possible price requires some careful strategy.

Step 1 – Consult with a Real Estate Professional

The first and most important step is to consult with a real estate professional. They will walk you through the steps of what to expect and how to best prepare and show your home to maximize return. You only have one chance to make that all important first impression. Following are tips we have gleaned from the real estate professionals we know and trust.

Step 2 – Price it Right

The next step to a successful sale is to make certain you have priced your home accurately. This means you have had a Realtor help you price your home to sell taking into consideration the market, the condition of your home, and the current competition around you. Once you have done this, you need to turn your attention to the condition of your home. The biggest mistake people make in preparing their home for sale is that they put all their efforts into the interior. They spend countless hours prepping and painting the walls making certain that everything is perfect, forgetting one of the most important aspects – the first impression.

Step 3 – Curb Appeal

The minute they pull up to a home, most buyers know if this is a place where they see themselves living. If your home is lacking curb appeal, you will have a much harder time getting someone to come inside. If your lawn is over grown and your gardens look disheveled, a prospective buyer will often skip over your home. You must have the exterior of your home match the standard of the interior or you may never get them to come inside. Serious buyers are looking at numerous houses and your home must stand out from the crowd.

The easiest way to assess your home’s curb appeal is to stand across the street. What is the first thing you see? Can you even see your home? Clear yard debris, power wash driveways and sidewalks, and bring in color with fresh bark and flowers. Pay special attention to your front door. Does it need replacing or repainting? Remove all cobwebs and make certain the entry is clean and crisp. You can be certain, while the real estate agent is busy gathering the key, the prospective buyer will be sizing up the front entryway.

Step 4 – Clean and Stage

Once you have them inside you only have a few minutes to help them see your house as their next future home. If it is in your budget, hire a professional house cleaner and home stager. Remember, your home is in competition with many other homes. Don’t leave that tattered old sofa in your living room. Remove all excess clutter and family pictures. If you are in the process of packing, designate an area in the garage for neatly stacked boxes. Make sure the kitchen and all bathroom counters are clear of personal items. Specially placed items such as a decorative cook book or splashes of color can be added in their place. Set your dining room table for two to four places. Keep it simple with a charger, plate, bowl or decorative napkin, and wine glasses. Make all the beds, every day. Invest in fresh towels and silk plants or spa baskets for all bathrooms. Stores like Tuesday Morning are great places to find inexpensive towels and linens. You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your home look like a treasure.

Step 5 – Odor out!

If you have pets do everything possible to not have them in your home when it is for sale. Odors are the number one reason buyers won’t purchase a home. Musty, mildew, or pet smells will steer buyers clear of your home. If you have dogs in the home, make sure they are in crates. If possible, invest the money to have your dogs or cats boarded, or have them stay at a friend’s house.

Step 6 – Get an Inspection and Make Repairs

Last, but not least, if you know of things that are malfunctioning, get them fixed. Hire a home inspector to do a pre-sale inspection and take care of the things that are called to your attention before you open the house to the public. The inspection report, along with a list of those items that have been addressed, can be a beneficial tool to provide to a prospective buyer.

Taking the time to get your home ready to sell will save you time on the market and ultimately bring a higher return on your investment.

For Realtor, Home Inspector, or Mortgage Service recommendations, you may consider some of the professionals we have grown to know and trust. Visit the Links Page on our website for more information.

Just Finish it! Attic and Basement Finishing

Is your family outgrowing your home? Do you want more living space but selling and buying a larger house is out of the question? A good solution might be right under your nose, or roof that is.

In multi-level houses, the main floor tends to be the most utilized and gets the most attention. Typically, this is where the primary entrance, living room, and kitchen are located. While this might continue to be the family hub, there could be a gold mine of extra space potential in either an unfinished attic or basement. Before uprooting or considering a costly home addition, it might be worth taking a closer look at underutilized space you already have. Finishing an attic or basement could give your family some much needed extra space, add value to your house, and could be less expensive to accomplish than many other significant home improvement projects.

ATTICS

An attic is typically known to house all those things we no longer remember having or seldom access. Unpacked boxes from that move five years ago, holiday decorations, vintage toys, and spiders – all preserved under a thick layer of dust. This underutilized space could be transformed into an extra bedroom, an organized storage area, or home office or studio, all while increasing the value of your home.

Not all attics are suitable to upgrade to a living space. Consulting with an architect or remodeling contractor will help determine the best approach. Building codes will dictate allowable ceiling height and overall square footage minimums, accessibility requirements, and weight load. If your attic isn’t quite up to snuff to meet code, some modifications can make a difference. Adding a dormer for extra space and light or beefing up the floor joists to accommodate extra weight load are potential options.

After evaluating the attic’s potential uses, deciding on a budget for finishing the attic will help determine which direction to go next. For the most value and cost-effective loft remodel with a mid-range budget, turn the space into a combination living space and storage area. Other uses for an attic space include converting it into an additional bedroom, play area, or bonus room. Installing a skylight or dormer with a window will help make the space larger and brighter. Ensure it is properly insulated for maximum comfort and efficiency during all seasons.

BASEMENTS

Basements often get a bad reputation. Hollywood portrays them as the dark, cold area of a house better deemed as the background of a horror movie than a livable space. Don’t let yourself be fooled. Basements, just like the attic, are typically another underdeveloped part of a house. Often this underutilized area can be finished to create an additional cozy living space in your home.

Like any remodel, having a budget and plan of how to design the space is essential. Obtaining an appraisal for the value of your basement is helpful to decide a design theme and how extensive to take the renovation. Ideally, you want to keep your budget between five and ten percent of your overall home’s value.

Due to a basements typical open floor plan, most are conducive to adding or removing extra walls. Make sure there is at least a 7-foot ceiling clearance and adequate windows or exits (for bedrooms). Unlike an attic space, which is typically more cramped with angled ceilings, the area in a basement is more versatile and usually more substantial. It can be transformed into a variety of uses such as an extra living room, storage space, or spare bedroom. Consult with a designer or remodeling contractor to help determine the best use of the space, and to ensure it meets code or can be modified to meet code.

Transforming the basement into another living space such as a home office or extra bedroom are some of the most common remodeling ideas. These multi-functional rooms are perfect for a growing family or home-based business. Perhaps a separate entertainment area is more on your agenda. The possibilities are endless from a media or game room, to a man cave, art studio, or whatever your heart desires!

Attics and basements have nearly endless potential, depending on how you wish to transform them. Breathing new life into these typically underused spaces can be more cost-effective than an addition and add overall value to your existing home. Make sure you work with a reputable designer or remodeling contractor to ensure your upgrades comply with local building codes and best suit your needs and desires.

Let us help you find a home improvement professional that can help make all your attic and basement finishing dreams come true!