5 Home Improvements That Won't Sell Your House

Here is a great article about upgrades to your house that won't sell it.  Take a look!  

If you remodel your house because you plan to live in it forever, then do whatever you want. But if you plan to remodel to help your resale value, beware of these projects.

Homeowners upgrade their homes for two reasons: They always dreamed of having a walk-in shower, or they think remodeling will boost their home’s value when it comes time to sell.

While the emotional value a remodeling project adds to a home usually pays off, unfortunately the monetary value rarely does.
Let’s face it, you’re not always going to recoup the money you spent on a remodeling project when it comes time to sell. Check out these examples to get an idea of what you rhouldn’t do before you sell…

1. Adding a new facade to the exterior of your home

I live in a historic neighborhood comprising mostly of turn-of-the-century Craftsman Bungalows. A few years ago, adding a brick front over the original wood became all the rage in my neighborhood. Now it just looks out of place in the area. Last month, three houses went up for sale on my street – two with the brick facade and one with the original wood. The wood house sold right away while the brick fronts are still sitting there.

I’m not saying that was the reason why one house sold and the others didn’t, but spending the extra money sure didn’t seem to help. According to MSN, homes that stick out – like brick facades nestled among wood bungalows - won’t do anything for their value.

Alternative: While you should update the exterior of your home before you sell, stick with the original plans. For example, replacing weathered siding with the higher-end fiber-cement siding returned an average of 78 percent of what homeowners paid, according to Remodeling Magazine.

2. Putting in a pool

According to SmartMoney, adding an in-ground pool to your backyard won’t add any real value when it comes time to sell. In fact, large outdoor projects don’t typically appeal to a wide range of buyers. Most buyers would rather see an open yard space than a koi pond or 16-seater hot tub.

Alternative: Clean up the yard and add some basic landscaping to the front and back. Having a nice yard gives your home curb appeal, and it’s one of the cheaper remodeling projects you can do. In fact, a study by HomeGain shows that the average landscaping job costs $540 and adds $1,932 to your home’s value.

3. Converting your attic to a home office

Converting attic space into a useable room will appeal to buyers – if it’s the right kind of room. Rooms like home offices only appeal to buyers who consider working from home a plus. In fact, HGTV reports that a home office remodel only recoups 60 to 73 percent of the cost on average.

Alternative: Converting your attic space into something that appeals to everyone, such as a bedroom. On average, homeowners saw up to a 90 percent return on this project, according to HGTV.

4. Overhauling your entire kitchen

Kitchens are the one room in the house that will appeal to the most buyers, so you want it to be eye-catching. But, that doesn’t mean you need granite counter tops, wood floors, and a double Viking oven to sell your house. On average, homeowners spent $110,938 on an upscale kitchen remodel. But the new kitchen only increased home values by $63,731 on average (or about 57 percent), according to MSNBC.

Alternative: Do a smaller-scale kitchen remodel, and focus on the areas that are the most outdated. As a comparison, MSNBC found that a smaller kitchen remodel cost $19,588 on average but raised the home’s value by an average 72 percent.

5. Installing solar panels

Green homes are becoming more popular, so making your home more energy-efficient will appeal to buyers. But the big greening projects are costly. For example, The New York Times reports that while the cost of solar panels has gone down by about 40 percent, one homeowner still paid a whopping $77,000 to install a solar panel system. It would be nearly impossible to recoup that investment in this housing market.

Alternative: Upgrade your windows with energy-efficient models – you’ll make your home more energy-efficient without the hefty price tag of those huge greening projects. Double-pane energy-efficient windows provide better insulation, which lowers utility bills – improvements that appeal to every buyer. And if you buy Energy Star-rated windows, you’ll qualify for a tax credit.

Questions to ask yourself

Before starting a remodeling project, consider these points…
1. Will this upgrade add value to my house? If you’re remodeling because you plan to eventually sell your home, run your ideas past a real estate agent or professional contractor. Not every project automatically adds value to a house.
2. How will my house compare to other homes in my neighborhood? If you put your house on the market the same time as five of your neighbors, your house needs to stand out – but not too much. Most buyers won’t consider your house if it’s priced much higher than others in the same area – even if your upgrades are worth the higher value.
3. Does this upgrade appeal to a wide range of buyers? If you’re going for a standard kitchen remodel, odds are it will appeal to almost every buyer who comes through your house. But, if you’re planning to break the mold with your home remodel, you might be wasting your money. Run your idea past a few friends and see if they’d buy it.


To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE
For more information about the Summit Murder Mystery series, CLICK HERE

Article source: moneytalknews.com

5 Home Improvements That Won't Sell Your House

Homeowners upgrade their homes for two reasons: They always dreamed of having a walk-in shower, or they think remodeling will boost their home’s value when it comes time to sell.

Here is a great article about upgrades to your house that won't sell it.  Take a look!  

If you remodel your house because you plan to live in it forever, then do whatever you want. But if you plan to remodel to help your resale value, beware of these projects.

While the emotional value a remodeling project adds to a home usually pays off, unfortunately the monetary value rarely does.
Let’s face it, you’re not always going to recoup the money you spent on a remodeling project when it comes time to sell. Check out these examples to get an idea of what you shouldn’t do before you sell…

1. Adding a new facade to the exterior of your home

I live in a historic neighborhood comprising mostly of turn-of-the-century Craftsman Bungalows. A few years ago, adding a brick front over the original wood became all the rage in my neighborhood. Now it just looks out of place in the area. Last month, three houses went up for sale on my street – two with the brick facade and one with the original wood. The wood house sold right away while the brick fronts are still sitting there.

I’m not saying that was the reason why one house sold and the others didn’t, but spending the extra money sure didn’t seem to help. According to MSN, homes that stick out – like brick facades nestled among wood bungalows - won’t do anything for their value.

Alternative: While you should update the exterior of your home before you sell, stick with the original plans. For example, replacing weathered siding with the higher-end fiber-cement siding returned an average of 78 percent of what homeowners paid, according to Remodeling Magazine.

2. Putting in a pool

According to SmartMoney, adding an in-ground pool to your backyard won’t add any real value when it comes time to sell. In fact, large outdoor projects don’t typically appeal to a wide range of buyers. Most buyers would rather see an open yard space than a koi pond or 16-seater hot tub.

Alternative: Clean up the yard and add some basic landscaping to the front and back. Having a nice yard gives your home curb appeal, and it’s one of the cheaper remodeling projects you can do. In fact, a study by HomeGain shows that the average landscaping job costs $540 and adds $1,932 to your home’s value.

3. Converting your attic to a home office

Converting attic space into a useable room will appeal to buyers – if it’s the right kind of room. Rooms like home offices only appeal to buyers who consider working from home a plus. In fact, HGTV reports that a home office remodel only recoups 60 to 73 percent of the cost on average.

Alternative: Converting your attic space into something that appeals to everyone, such as a bedroom. On average, homeowners saw up to a 90 percent return on this project, according to HGTV.

4. Overhauling your entire kitchen

Kitchens are the one room in the house that will appeal to the most buyers, so you want it to be eye-catching. But, that doesn’t mean you need granite counter tops, wood floors, and a double Viking oven to sell your house. On average, homeowners spent $110,938 on an upscale kitchen remodel. But the new kitchen only increased home values by $63,731 on average (or about 57 percent), according to MSNBC.

Alternative: Do a smaller-scale kitchen remodel, and focus on the areas that are the most outdated. As a comparison, MSNBC found that a smaller kitchen remodel cost $19,588 on average but raised the home’s value by an average 72 percent.

5. Installing solar panels

Green homes are becoming more popular, so making your home more energy-efficient will appeal to buyers. But the big greening projects are costly. For example, The New York Times reports that while the cost of solar panels has gone down by about 40 percent, one homeowner still paid a whopping $77,000 to install a solar panel system. It would be nearly impossible to recoup that investment in this housing market.

Alternative: Upgrade your windows with energy-efficient models – you’ll make your home more energy-efficient without the hefty price tag of those huge greening projects. Double-pane energy-efficient windows provide better insulation, which lowers utility bills – improvements that appeal to every buyer. And if you buy Energy Star-rated windows, you’ll qualify for a tax credit.

Questions to ask yourself

Before starting a remodeling project, consider these points…
1. Will this upgrade add value to my house? If you’re remodeling because you plan to eventually sell your home, run your ideas past a real estate agent or professional contractor. Not every project automatically adds value to a house.
2. How will my house compare to other homes in my neighborhood? If you put your house on the market the same time as five of your neighbors, your house needs to stand out – but not too much. Most buyers won’t consider your house if it’s priced much higher than others in the same area – even if your upgrades are worth the higher value.
3. Does this upgrade appeal to a wide range of buyers? If you’re going for a standard kitchen remodel, odds are it will appeal to almost every buyer who comes through your house. But, if you’re planning to break the mold with your home remodel, you might be wasting your money. Run your idea past a few friends and see if they’d buy it.


To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE
For more information about the Summit Murder Mystery series, CLICK HERE

Article source: moneytalknews.com

10 Terrific DIY Home and Garden Projects

It has been a while since I've posted some DIY projects, and I came across these and thought I would share!  Add Spring panache inside your home and out with these engaging DIY projects for all skills levels.  From fixing up roadside furniture to installing an edible container garden and building a stone fire pit, these 10 DIY projects for the home and garden are for both newbies and pros!

Project: Painted quotation
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 1 hour

The book Flea Market Chic by Liz Bauwens and Alexandra Campbell features a quote painted on the wall above a bed's headboard. You can easily re-create this poetic look with a small can of paint and a set of letter stencils — or very good handwriting.

  Project: Burlap-wrapped pots
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 15 minutes

Jennifer of The Old Painted Cottage covered basic pots with burlap to enhance her maidenhair ferns. Buy a roll of burlap at a garden store, cut a section that fits your pot and place the stylishly covered pot in a plant stand. You can also finish the look by tying the burlap with twine.

Project: Two embellished paper lanterns
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 20 minutes to 2 hours

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest whipped up these delightful paper globe lanterns with nothing more than a glue gun and embellishments from a craft store. The flower design takes a bit more time, but you can finish the pom-pom creation in just minutes.

See the full instructions here

Project: Container garden Difficulty: Easy Estimated time: An afternoon Want an edible garden in raised beds but don't have the time or desire to do major construction? Take a cue from the folks at Banyon Tree Design Studio and fill galvanized troughs (yes, the kind livestock drink from) with soil and compost, and use them as containers to plant your seeds.

Project: Reclaimed dining chairs
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (including drying time)

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest scooped up these chairs for free on the side of the road and transformed them with black paint and decorative fabric.

This is a no-sew project, so it's even appropriate for newbie DIYers. Read the full details and how-to here.

Project: Stenciled rug Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Upgrading a sisal rug with a modern print creates a fresh look that's inexpensive. Read more about this project here.

Project: Outdoor chalkboard Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Shades of Green's portfolio on Houzz inspired me to research outdoor chalkboard DIY projects. I discovered the perfect method: Mix outdoor paint with a dark sanded grout and apply it to a sheet of plywood for a version that will hold up against the elements. Get the full how-to here.

Project: Front-door face-lift
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (includes drying time)

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn, aka the Decor Demon, upgraded a basic hollow-core door in a weekend with new hardware, fresh paint and crisp graphic design. It may look complicated, but with time and patience, even a beginner can tackle this project.

Read the full story with step-by-step instructions

Project: Placemat pillows Difficulty: Moderate (sewing machine required) Estimated time: Several hours Living in a Nutshell by Janet Lee covers creative and budget-friendly projects for small spaces. Here's a genius tip from the book: Sew designer placemats together and fill with stuffing to create a pillow. Read the Houzz coverage of Living in a Nutshell for more ideas.

Project: Backyard fire pit Difficulty: Hard Estimated time: Several weekends (and helping hands) If you are ready to bust out the power tools and do some heavy lifting, this stacked stone fire pit could be yours in time to enjoy warm summer nights. Erin Lang Norris did a wonderful job outlining step-by-step instructions, so if you decide to tackle this project, you are in good hands. Source: www.houzz.com To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE! To read how you can help updating Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE For more information about my Summit Murder Mystery series, please CLICK HERE!

10 Terrific DIY Home and Garden Projects

It has been a while since I've posted some DIY projects, and I came across these and thought I would share!  Add Spring panache inside your home and out with these engaging DIY projects for all skills levels.  From fixing up roadside furniture to installing an edible container garden and building a stone fire pit, these 10 DIY projects for the home and garden are for both newbies and pros!

Project: Painted quotation
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 1 hour

The book Flea Market Chic by Liz Bauwens and Alexandra Campbell features a quote painted on the wall above a bed's headboard. You can easily re-create this poetic look with a small can of paint and a set of letter stencils — or very good handwriting.

  Project: Burlap-wrapped pots
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 15 minutes

Jennifer of The Old Painted Cottage covered basic pots with burlap to enhance her maidenhair ferns. Buy a roll of burlap at a garden store, cut a section that fits your pot and place the stylishly covered pot in a plant stand. You can also finish the look by tying the burlap with twine.

Project: Two embellished paper lanterns
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 20 minutes to 2 hours

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest whipped up these delightful paper globe lanterns with nothing more than a glue gun and embellishments from a craft store. The flower design takes a bit more time, but you can finish the pom-pom creation in just minutes.

See the full instructions here

Project: Container garden Difficulty: Easy Estimated time: An afternoon Want an edible garden in raised beds but don't have the time or desire to do major construction? Take a cte from the folks at Banyon Tree Design Studio and fill galvanized troughs (yes, the kind livestock drink from) with soil and compost, and use them as containers to plant your seeds.

Project: Reclaimed dining chairs
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (including drying time)

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest scooped up these chairs for free on the side of the road and transformed them with black paint and decorative fabric.

This is a no-sew project, so it's even appropriate for newbie DIYers. Read the full details and how-to here.

Project: Stenciled rug Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Upgrading a sisal rug with a modern print creates a fresh look that's inexpensive. Read more about this project here.

Project: Outdoor chalkboard Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Shades of Green's portfolio on Houzz inspired me to research outdoor chalkboard DIY projects. I discovered the perfect method: Mix outdoor paint with a dark sanded grout and apply it to a sheet of plywood for a version that will hold up against the elements. Get the full how-to here.

Project: Front-door face-lift
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (includes drying time)

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn, aka the Decor Demon, upgraded a basic hollow-core door in a weekend with new hardware, fresh paint and crisp graphic design. It may look complicated, but with time and patience, even a beginner can tackle this project.

Read the full story with step-by-step instructions

Project: Placemat pillows Difficulty: Moderate (sewing machine required) Estimated time: Several hours Living in a Nutshell by Janet Lee covers creative and budget-friendly projects for small spaces. Here's a genius tip from the book: Sew designer placemats together and fill with stuffing to create a pillow. Read the Houzz coverage of Living in a Nutshell for more ideas.

Project: Backyard fire pit Difficulty: Hard Estimated time: Several weekends (and helping hands) If you are ready to bust out the power tools and do some heavy lifting, this stacked stone fire pit could be yours in time to enjoy warm summer nights. Erin Lang Norris did a wonderful job outlining step-by-step instructions, so if you decide to tackle this project, you are in good hands. Source: www.houzz.com To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE! To read how you can help updating Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE For more information about my Summit Murder Mystery series, please CLICK HERE!

Women Leading the Way in a Man's World

While DIY may be traditionally seen as a man's work, a new survey says roles are being reversed with women leading the way and showing up their other halves' handy-work.

The survey by the AA's Home Emergency Response Service has revealed men are losing their traditional DIY skills as more women step up and take over around the home.

Young men are now less than half as likely to perform the tasks their fathers and grandfathers could, like rewiring a plug or bleeding a radiator. The findinfs show 35 per cent of men aged 18-24 can no longer change a light bulb, compared to 29 per cent of women the same age. It also states that women aged 18-24 are more competent than males of the same age at assembling flat pack furniture – 64 per cent against 54 per cent. Women are also catching up at hanging wallpaper, patching holes in a wall, and replacing locks.

It seems this trend has been gathering momentum for some time, with females working professionally in male-dominated industries, including plumbing, construction and electrics.

Justine Wood, 40, has been running her own successful painting and decorating business in Cheltenham for 14 years. After working several different jobs, she ended up painting almost by accident, but soon found her services in high demand.

"I was taking a gap year and needed to earn some cash, so I started with the painting and decorating, and before I knew it I was working full-time.  It was quite unusual and people were surprised to see me at first, but in the last seven or eight years people don't seem to mention it," she said.

Justine believes she brings things to the job which male firms cannot, and that there are many benefits to hiring a woman to work around the home.

She said: "It's all about attention to detail, taking care and knowing you're working in somebody's home, not just a site. Where we come through is in applying those finishing touches, the little things that others may miss, and communication is important – letting people know what's happening as we go, rather than just turning up and getting on with things."

Do you agree?  Do you think DIY repairs are no longer just a man's world?

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE

Garage Remodeling Ideas and Tips

Redefining your space according to your own needs, and sometimes ignoring what  you're presented with to do so, is the mark of the 21st century homeowner.  One aspect of your space for many a homeowner is the garage, a place traditionally reserved for cars and clutter - sometimes, just clutter.  What if you could take that space and re-purpose it, and extend your life at home in the process?  How would you go about it?  Here are some tips on transforming your garage...

Home improvement and remodels can take place in the interior parts of a home. However, indoor rooms are not the only places for improvements. Sometimes an outdoor space needs to receive an upgrade, such as when selling a home. Homeowners who plan to continue living in a home may have different reasons for remodeling their garages.

The idea of additional living space provides one reason. Some homeowners convert their garages into work rooms, play areas for children, and laundry areas. In some locations, a converted garage space may act as a selling point when the homeowner decides to move.

                                           Garage converted into an additional living space. Source: thatkindofwoman.tumblr.com via Cassandra on Pinterest

Garage remodeling and lighting

Garages require good lighting like other parts of a home. Homeowners should spend time on garage light planning to maximize better results.  A single, 4-foot shop light represents a common light in garages. These lights attach to the ceiling and offer a great amount of brightness. The light works well for homeowners who just want to park their cars and leave. However, some homeowners will spend a lot of time in the garage. For example, a work-at-home professional will need a different type of lighting for specific activities. Task lighting allows the professional to perform job duties without a hot, overhead light.

Garage floors

Homeowners should remember their garage floors. Most garage floors use a concrete foundation. The foundation feels cold, shows dullness and looks unappealing. Over time, garage floors experience spilled paint stains and natural discolorations.

Homeowners do not have to invest large sums of money into their garage flooring. If the room does not act a living space, garage paint works wonders. The floor should receive at least two coats of paint. For homeowners who will convert to a living space, garage floor tile offers a better solution.The tile gives more durability for walking across the floor and holding heavy furniture pieces.  Yet any type of flooring that you’d install over a flat concrdte surface, using a vapor barrier, is suitable.

                              A garage remodeling project that makes a garage into a home theatre. Source: homedesign.marthastewart.com via julie on Pinterest

Garage doors

Garage doors represent another remodeling area for a home. These doors range in style and budget. Most garage door styles match the main home’s architectural design. Homeowners should analyze how the garage is used before investing in a specific door.

For example, the up-and-over design swings outward, facing the driveway. Once opened, the doors remain in an up motion. This door type can be heavy. Homeowners who spend time playing the guitars or working on projects may prefer this door. They can keep the door open for long periods and allow a natural breeze to flow into the garage.

                  $26nbsp;                           Garage remodeling to create an office space with vertical folding doors. Source: guest.themls.com via Chanee on Pinterest

Garage remodeling for better use of space

Some homeowners just want extra storage space. They may not have an attic, basement or shed for storage. Another reason involves having too many items in their current storage areas. Garages offer the perfect solution. Some home have attached garages, while other homes have separate garages.
Unfortunately, without a well-planned garage remodel, the space becomes cluttered and makes it harder to locate items. The exterior wall space can have shelves to minimize clutter. The shelves can have labels, such as paint. All boxes should go against the walls, too. If stacked, the boxes need a label to identify its contents.

As you can see if you just think outside the box that is your garage, there are plenty ideas you could come up with for remodeling your garage should you choose to do so!

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!

*article from builddirect.com

Add Light and Great Style with Chandeliers

A chandelier is defined as “a branched, ceiling-mounted light fixture with two or more arms bearing lights.” During the medieval times, they were made of wooden beams usually shaped as a cross with metal spikes on top to hold candles. It was hoisted towards the ceiling using a rope or chain, and was depended upon as a useful light source. They evolved into more delicate designs involving crystals and stones, and became more apparent in palaces, places of royalty and the wealthy. Today, the chandelier is used in a more decorative way, adding a luxurious presence to the home.

Nonetheless, chandeliers can add wonderful ambiance to just about any room. They are designed to float in a room as an element of the design. It can serve as a room’s centerpiece without taking over the entire space. Chandeliers can be a great conversation piece, as well as a part of the home that really makes you feel as though you are living in luxury. They are elegant and unparalleled additions and command attention like no other furnishing.  There are many points to consider when choosing a chandelier. Size, materials and light emission are crucial when determining the perfect chandelier for a room.

Vertical and horizontal sizes are important decisions to make when selecting a chandelier. A fixture that is too large may overwhelm the space, however, one too small will appear out of place or insignificant. The design and size of the chandelier will also affect the hanging height. For an elaborate chandelier that takes up a lot of space, it should be hung a couple of inches higher than the standard height. Be sure to hold it up before committing to a height to make sure it works. Here are some general size dimension rules that will help when choosing a chandelier:

              - If the room is smaller than 10' by 10', choose a 17" to 20" diameter chandelier.

              - If the room ir about 12' x 12', a 24" to 27" chandelier would be an accurate size.

              - If the room is about 14' x 14', try a 24" to 36" diameter chandelier.

Another way to help determine the proper size chandelier for a room is to add the dimensions together. For example, if your room is 12' by 17', add the 12 plus 17 to get 29. Therefore, a proper size chandelier would be around 29" diameter for that room.

The length at which the chandelier should hang depends on the ceiling height of that particular room. The bottom of the fixture should not hang more than 7' from the floor. If windows are present, center the chandelier in the window so it can be seen from the outside.

 

Since a chandelier will be a focus piece in the room, it is vital to choose materials that will enhance the decor of the area. Lavish and visually dazzling light fittings can create the most beautiful kind of lighting. The combination of crystals and candles conjures up all kinds of nostalgic feelings about chandeliers. Crystal and glass fixtures are very popular and represent a romantic sense of wealth. Chandeliers can also come in different metals such as brass, wrought iron, silver and steel. A wrought iron chandelier produces a magnificent appearance. Stone, beads, shell and capiz chandeliers aren’t quite as fancy, but definitely provide a more edgy or whimsical look. Antler chandeliers from elk or deer embody a rustic style and are perfect for log cabins and rustic lodges. For a room with a traditional style, a fixture with more ornamentation and intricate designs will fit best. Alternatively, a simple chandelier would match a modern style space that is usually less ornamented. A formal and elegant room is best equipped with a very impressive chandelier. A space that features antiqued furniture would be complete with a more detail-enriched chandelier, perhaps with hanging pendants.

Another appropriate method to help choose the materials is to begin with a color or element that is influential in the decoration scheme of the room. You want your chandelier color to compliment your existing finishes. Brushed bronze, black, silver or even gold can be neutral tones that will match most decorating schemes. If you already have a warm, rich, wood and earth-toned theme, a bronze or gold finished chandelier may work best. If the room has cool tones, like blues and whites, a silver one would be appropriate. For that sleek, modern style space with black furniture, a silver or black fixture will complement that polished design.

Chandeliers have multiple bulbs and tend to shed a lot of light.  The amount of illumination that you will need can be calculated upon this formula:  

Length x Width x 1.5 = wattage

For example, a room that is 12 x 15 feet will need bulbs that produce a combined total of 270 watts.  A chandelier with 6 bulbs that are 40 watts will most likely provide adequate illumination, especially if complemented by sconces, lamps, or other light fixtures. A more general rule to provide sufficient light with the total wattage of all bulbs is 100 watts to 400 watts. Since chandeliers of recent times are not used as a light source but more as a decorative piece, placing your chandelier on a dimmer is a great option. A dimmer allows adjustment to the light level in order to set the perfect mood.

A very common spot for a chandelier is often found in the dining room. It is important to make sure that the chandelier is low enough to light up the eating area without interfering with the sight line of the people seated at the table. The general rule is to measure 30" to 36" from the surface of the table to the bottom of the fixture to insure good illumination. Additionally, it should be about 12" narrower than the width of the table so it will not interfere with people’s heads. Often, the best thing to do is hold the fixture over the table and move it up and down

until it looks right.

The perfect chandelier in the foyer will create a welcoming atmosphere for all who enter the home. It should provide the general light needed to greet guests and assure a safe passage into your home. When determining whether to hang a flush, semi-flush, or multi-tiered chandelier in your foyer, consider the ceiling height of the foyer and remember to keep it around 7 feet above the floor. For two-story foyers with a window above the front door, center the chandelier so it can be seen from outside. If your foyer is extra-large, you may also want to add matching sconces. They should be installed about 5 feet from the floor and around 6' to 8' apart.

A chandelier hanging at the top of a stairway can be a great focus point. Staircases are often overlooked when it comes to home decor, so the simple addition of a chandelier can integrate this space into the rest of your living area.

The kitchen is a unique, but elegant location for a chandelier. Many homeowners will match the dining area chandelier with the lighting used in the kitchen to keep a cohesive look throughout the home.

If you are placing your chandelier in a room with a relatively low ceiling like some bedrooms, consider purchasing a mini chandelier. In recent years, mini chandeliers have been gaining popularity for their ability to fit nicely into small spaces without sacrificing the character that a high-quality chandelier exhibits.

For countless years, chandeliers have long provided a majestic form of lighting that makes the space look grand and stately like no other lighting fixture. It can be a decorative accent or lovely centerpiece to just about any room in the home. Since matching the style of the room is of utmost importance, do not be afraid to experiment with different sizes, tastes and designs of chandeliers to see which one works best for your home.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE!  

*article from houseplansandmore.com

When is the Best Time for Home Buying?

There are times in a year when it is particularly ideal to go into home buying. Aside from the actual time though, the situation of the buyer should also be considered. Timing in terms of what period of the year it is and timing in terms of the financial condition of the buyer are both important.

If you are on a fence as to whether it is the right time for you to purchase a house, you may have to consider some or all of the factors enumerated here. Below are some guidelines that may help you decide.

1. Market condition. This is quite obvious, particularly to those who are aware of what is going on in the housing market most of the time. The best time to buy, of course, is when it is a buyer's market. This is a point in time in housing when there are more sellers than buyers. As expected, this favors the buyer since the prices will be lower, more choices are available and their power to negotiate is stronger. Sellers will be forced to compete against their fellow sellers for a limited number of potential buyers, so they will be more willing to lower their prices.

2. Unusual time of the year. Most home buyers get into the market during spring. The weather is ideal for house hunting and this is the time when most sellers unveil their best offerings. However, this is also a time when competition among home buyers is tightest since almost all of them have the same goal in mind. If you have the patience for it, it may be best for you to buy during times when most of your fellow buyers prefer to stay inside their homes. Winter months and the weeks leading to Christmas season are examples of such times. If you shop during these periods, you will have fewer competitors and you may just luck out, especially since sellers who have their properties listed at these times are the most motivated to unload their houses.

3. You have resolved your debt issues. If you are at a period in your life where you have multiple debts to pay for, then you may have to reconsider your plan to purchase a residential property. Paying for a mortgage is a big responsibility, so you need to make sure that you do not have other heavy financial obligations when you decide to buy a house. Pay off 75% or all of your debts first before you go into home buying to avoid being weighed down by too many financial obligations.

4. You are ready to settle down. This does not necessarily mean that you are ready to have a family or to get married, although it could also cover these situations. What this means is that you have really decided that you can stay in one place for long. This is important because you need to live at least five years in a home for it to build a decent equity. So, before going into home buying, make sure that you have really decided that it is the right time for you.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!  

*article from e-foreclosuresearch.com

Home Remodeling Tips for the Bedroom

A home remodeling project can change the way you see your house and the way you feel when you are inside it. Some people feel the need for a change after a few years of living in the same place. If you are one of them, a change in decoration or an altered appearance of your surroundings may help.

You can start in your bedroom since this is a place where you spend nearly half of the 24 hours of each day. Various remodeling options are discussed here to give your bedroom a new look and a new feel.

1. Mix and match. Playing with colors and designs can be a fun way to spend your days and also a great way to change the look of your bedroom. If its current look leans more towards a traditional style, like everything in their proper places and every color complementing each other, a bolder, more adventurous look may be in order. If the dominant shades are neutral or safe colors, pick out some bold furniture, like a hot pink foot stool or couch and combine it with the neutral-colored sheets. Add velvet accents instead of the traditional linen and cotton to provide a bolder look. The key is to throw in bold colors and accents amid neutral and safe materials.

2. Romantic look. If you feel that there is too much going on in your bedroom, tone it down a little and go for the romantic look. Choose just three soft shades that you will use for the sheets, curtains, cabinets, lamps and accents. A combination of white or cream, light blue or green and skin-tone color lnoks peaceful and quiet. Add romance by putting bed posts and draperies around the bed and soft light to complete the theme.

3. Modern look. This may require a higher budget since you need sleek and modern furniture to give your bedroom a more sophisticated look. Solid colors combined with pricier furniture can give it a contemporary appearance. Put in a huge headboard in solid color and add a shiny, black bedside table. Light browns and blue shades provide a modern look to any room.

4. Play with shapes. Combining rounded lamps with solid, square and rectangle furniture will produce a creative atmosphere. Accessorize with different figurines and table top decors that vary in sizes and shapes to give your room a more adventurous look. You can also use screens or shades instead of curtains to change the look of the room. Warm colors usually go well with this type of design.

5. Stripped-down design. If you have a tendency to feel crowded in when there is too much color and too much furnishings around, remove them and go for a more stripped-down look. Do without the many-colored pillows and sheets and choose a neutral color all throughout. White or cream all throughout – from sheets, to curtains to carpets – is enough to give it a simple look. Break the monotony by adding a single bold-colored lamp. Home remodeling can be as simple as changing colors or removing excess furniture and you can always start the change in your bedroom.

For your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!  

*article from e-forclosuresearch.com

12 Most Refreshing Remodeling Tips

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During the holiday season, homeowners are confronting aspects of their property more closely, as a result of entertaining friends and family. Being guests themselves, at open houses and small gatherings, those same homeowners are taking mental notes about what improvements or changes they might choose for their own homes.

Here is a listing of a dozen recent remodeling tips for upcoming projects:

1. Continuity

Start from your main entry and see your home as do guests. If you own an older home, previous owners may have added their own “touch” with a different floor, a new color scheme in one room and over time, the continuity was lost. Just be sure to take into account how your home looks from different eyes.

2. Put in some color

There have been many periods where minimalism was very appealing. If you happen to have a home with an abundance of contrasting black and white walls, flooring and ceiling patterns, spend some time imagining warmer colors and the effect, aesthetically and emotionally, such a change might offer.

3. Storage

Whether you’re updating your home for your own pleasure or investing as a means of boosting value, increasing and improving your storage capacity, especially in the kitchen, bedrooms and garage, may add practical utility that will be appreciated.

4. Combine wants with needs

Like any project, you have constraints of financing, time and scope. To prevent your remodeling plans from growing in unhelpful directions, control the scope of your project by first listing those needs your house might have and then build the want list around those needs.

5. Bathroom

There’s a consensus among real estate professionals that remodeling the kitchen and any bathroom will yield the best returns; there’s also an agreement that, of the two, bathrooms are less expensive. Bathrooms get plenty of wear and tear, so remodeling and old one or adding another may combine both wants and needs.

6. Refinish Bathtub

If you have an older home and it contains an iron bathtub, even one in rough shape, don’t replace it – refinish it. Reputable companies that provide this service can take an old tub and resurface it until it looks like new.

7. Countertops

Think of replacing a countertop as a simple, relatively inexpensive way of updating a kitchen or bathroom. For serious cooks who plan on sticking around in the same house for some years, marble countertops with slate tiled (not stainless steel) backsplashes are a classic looks with a modern touch, though more costly.

8. Patio

Don’t think of increasing your living space as an exclusively indoor affair. If you entertain, or if you simply enjoy the outdoors, adding a patio can provide that extra living space that will get plenty of use. Adding to the functionality of homes are outdoor kitchens of various scopes and styles to accommodate climates and lifestyles.

9. Patio doors

Your parent’s generation had patio doors that added to the openness of a room, but also added to heating costs. With leaps in thermal properties, widening your access area to the patio with glass doors no longer mean inefficiencies in maintaining your indoor climate.

10. Radiant Heat

Radiant heat is one way to control the amount of energy you use based upon real-time needs. From accommodating individual preferences to keeping patios floors comfortable and snow free, radiant heat has advantages worth considering.

11. Retirement 

If you see yourself remaining in a home into retirement, consider both the convenience and financial savings of building in easy access/easy mobility features intn your remodeling plans.

12. Consult an architect

If your plans involve additions of rooms, removal walls or major changes to the outline of your home, invest the money to consult with an architect. Together, you can head off potential problems that can lead to an unsatisfying result or expensive rework. Like any profession, not all architects are alike, so engage in some thorough due diligence in researching architects far beyond the helpful recommendations of friends and colleagues.

No remodeling project has ever come and gone without periods of trepidation and frustration. Your project will be no different, either. When those inevitable moments come, picture yourself as the host of next holiday season’s open house and imagine the compliments you’ll hear, including your own.

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*article found on 12most.com