10 Steps to Prepare for a Remodel

Although National Home Improvement Month is behind us, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) advises homeowners of the 10 most important steps to take before the remodeling project starts.

“The planning and researching phases of a project are the most critical steps in the remodeling process,” says Judy Moze, CR, GCP, NARI National president and president of Handcrafted Homes, Inc. in Roswell, Georgia. “The more knowledgeable and prepared a homeowner is, the more they protect themselves.”

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

What can a homeowner do to prepare for a remodel? NARI provides a top 10 list of steps homeowners should take before breaking ground on their next remodel.

1. Research your project. Taking time to research projects on the Internet and NARI.org will provide a good sense of what is involved such as price, scope of work, return on investment and new product/material options. Also, research property values in your neighborhood to make sure your project is in line with other homes in the area.

2. Plan project around the long-term. How long do you plan to stay in your home? How might your family structure change over time? Life can change quickly—these questions should be answered early on to ensure your project will fit your lifestyle long after it’s complete.

3. Set your budget. Deciding on a realistic budget and arranging finances to support your project are essential. This number needs to include everything—the project, products, contingencies, etc. Don’t be afraid to share this with your remodeler; professionals are respectful of a client’s budget and will create a plan around it, not over it.

4. Use advanced search for professionals. The online world makes it easy to gather information about strangers. Ask friends, family and neighbors for referrals and then spend time researching that person online. Professional remodelers take their reputation seriously and hold credentials beyond licensing, such as certifications, memberships in trade associations and additional training. Look for examples of press coverage or involvement in industry presentations or events. Check online reviews and social media to see how they interact with past clients and peers.

5. Ask the right questions. Time and cost are important, but getting the right information requires the right questions. Ask your professional remodeler about his educational background, training, specialties or past issues with clients. Ask about how the remodeling process will work.

6. Verify your remodeler. Don’t take their word for it. Check the information given to you such as references, license numbers, insurance information and certifications by calling providers to verify. Request a visit to an active client’s job site. Make it known that you are checking on him—a true professional considers that as a positive sign to working with a homeowner.

7. Review contracts word-by-word. A remodeling contract protects you and your remodeler. Homeowners should review this carefully. Professional remodelers have done this before, and know what should go in a contract. Homeowners are not as familiar with remodeling and should ask about terms if they don’t understand. Pay attention to details about change orders, payment, additional fees, timeline and responsibilities. If it’s not in the contract, it doesn’t exist.

8. Keep design in mind. Your design guides the entire project. Think about what you dislike about your current space and the intended use of the new space. Use Websites such as Pinterest.com and Houzz.com to gather design ideas. Make sure you can articulate specifically what you like about that design when talking to your designer. Professionals don’t recreate a photo—they incorporate accessibility, functionality, ease of modification, style and value into your design.

9. Make your selections. Deciding on products and materials is a larger process than most imagine. With so many options to choose from, product selections are one of the primary reasons for project timelines to get extended. Base decisions on quality, function, price, style and availability. Include selections in the contract to lock down pricing and keep your budget intact.

10. Create a communication plan. A common downfall in remodeling is lack of communication between homeowners and remodelers. Your remodeler should lay out a communication plan at the beginning of the project. If not, ask them to do so. This plan should clarify roles of everyone involved, communication methods, availability, and frequency of communication that is expected.

As an industry that struggles with a persistent negative perception of remodeling contractors, these tips serve both the industry and consumers in elevating real professionals from the pack.

For more information, visit www.NARI.org.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

Old to New: How to Revive Your Deck

Ramona, CA, Jun 9, 2015—With the weather warming across the country, homeowners are already dreaming of slow summer days lounging on the deck and enjoying backyard barbecues. However, many emerged from winter's hibernation to realize their deck isn't looking as fresh as it used to. Below, Doreen Smith, REALTOR® at CENTURY 21 Award, gives us some insight on revitalizing your deck without breaking the bank.

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Inspect and repair. The first step for revitalizing your deck is checking for any needed repairs. Scrutinize wood for rot, paying special attention to where wood attaches to the ground—where moisture often invades—and where it connects to the house. Examine and tighten any fasteners, check for bent or rusted hardware, and replace accordingly.

Refinish it. “To get that new-deck glow back, consider stripping the finish on your deck and giving it a fresh gloss,” suggests Doreen. Ideally, you should be cleaning and resealing the deck every year to battle weather-related damage and keep the decking in the best condition possible.

Replace the railings. Railings tend to show damage faster than other areas of the deck, and may need replacing. If you're tired of dealing with annual railing maintenance, consider replacing wood with a no-maintenance option, like Fiberon, a vinyl-coated, wood-plastic composite.

Upgrade the lighting. Once your actual deck is looking tip-top, consider upgrading your lighting situation to show it off regardless of the time of day. “Not only do well-placed lights look more attractive, they're also safer,” notes Doreen. There are a variety of fixtures suited for stair risers, railings and posts, all of which are great for after-dark use.

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For more information on renovating your home, please contact Doreen Smith at doreen@doreensmith.com, (760) 803-4708, or www.century21award.com/agents/DoreenSmith

For additional real estate information, please contact CENTURY 21 Award at info@century21award.com, (800) 293-1657, or CENTURY 21 Award.

Understanding Contracting Warranties

Carlsbad, CA, June 2, 2015—When you're getting ready to build or remodel, many things are buzzing through your brain: building design, budgeting, and whether or not the new deck will be ready for summer. However, the last thing on your mind may also be the most important: the contractor's warranty.

A contractor's warranty ensures quality workmanship and required repairs if faulty products or workmanship is discovered, explains Isabel Alvarez, REALTOR® at CENTURY 21 Award. While not every state requires by law that a contractor doles one out, you can always request one, and a contractor who shies from providing a warranty may be a red flag.

“When your contractor confirms they do offer a warranty, ask to see a copy of the written provisions to make sure you have sufficient protection from defective work,” suggests Isabel. You may want to become familiar with your state law, if applicable.

But what should you look for in your contractor's warranty? Several things, according to Isabel. “A well written warranty document detailing specific information should be provided and incorporated as an addendum to the construction contract.” Information should also be provided as to the procedure to follow for prompt warranty services, as well as what happens should a dispute arise over warranty issues.

Some contracts include allowances, which should be reviewed together.

“Rather than price specific products or materials, many contractors prefer to use product allowances,” explains Isabel. A building allowance is an amount included in the contract to be used toward the purchase of these products and materials as they are selected by the consumer.

Typical categories where allowances might be used include flooring, cabinets, and lighting fixtures. Allowances allow homeowners more time to finalize exact selections as the project progresses, and they can simplify the cost control process. The disadvantage, however, is that the cost of final selections can easily exceed the amount of money allowed, resulting in significant extra charges to the homeowner.

“Shop for each allowance category before you finalize the allowance amounts provided in the contract,” suggests Isabel. This way, you can budget for additional funds or adjust allowances to better reflect the actual monies required.

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For more remodeling information, please contact Isabel Alvarez at isabelalvarez@century21award.com, (760) 207-2831, or www.century21award.com/agents/IsabelAlvarez

For additional real estate information, please contact CENTURY 21 Award at info@century21award.com, (800) 293-1657, or CENTURY 21 Award.

Contractor vs. Architect: Who Comes First?

Temecula, CA, May 19, 2015—Many different home improvement professionals may enter the scene when you're renovating your home, from the contractor to the architect and even an interior designer. However, when it comes to planning your project, opinions vary about which professional to call first, according to Laura Attig REALTOR® at CENTURY 21 Award.

Some say the architect comes first because you have to design it before you can build it. The architect, who is trained to resolve problems creatively, can help define the project in ways that provide meaningful guidance for the design.

“The architect can also do site studies, help secure planning and zoning approvals, and perform a variety of other pre-design tasks,” says Laura.

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.Net)

On the other hand, Laura notes, a contractor will be the one you interact with on a regular basis and the person who will likely be in your home every day, possibly for an extended period depending on the scope of your work. Many contractors have in-house design services, or design/build firms, and can possibly offer better price and integration between design and implementation. Others may have several architects with whom they work directly, which could also provide a smooth integration between design and implementation.

When deciding who to bring aboard first, it’s important to have a clear idea of what each professional's role includes.

“Beyond having the architect create the design and the contractor implement it, both professionals have additional responsibilities,” says Laura. The contractor is responsible for pricing the project and ensuring that it is completed in a timely fashion. The architect is responsible for getting the construction drawing completed with proper specifications and architectural detail. Since many jurisdictions require architectural drawings to be reviewed to ensure the plans sufficiently meet local codes, the architect may also be responsible for applying for and securing the permits. Make sure that everyone, you included, understands who is responsible for what before work begins in your home.

Of course, Laura explains, it doesn't hurt to have a situation where the architect and contractor already have an existing working relationship. In fact, such an association could benefit a project by ensuring the smooth integration between the design and implementation. In a residential project, there is sometimes a triangle of tension between the architect, the contractor and the homeowner in terms of finger pointing and assigning blame. There is greater coordination of efforts, and generally less stress, with a design/build firm where the architects and contractors are accustomed to working together and are knowledgeable about construction costs and can fit design plans and specifications to your budget.

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For more information on contractors, please contact Laura Attig at lattig@century21award.com, (951) 733-8460, or www.century21award.com/agents/LauraAttig

For more information on real estate, please contact CENTURY 21 Award at info@century21award.com, (800) 293-1657, or CENTURY 21 Award.

3 Home Improvements to Make With Your Tax Refunds

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, May 12, 2015—With the annual tax deadline officially over, consumers across the country are already daydreaming about what they plan to do with their refund, which averages around $2,700. If you're a homeowner, a great idea would be to funnel that refund into upping your home's ROI. Here are several great home improvements you can make with that refund.

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

1. Bolster your curb appeal. “From replacing or repainting your front door to redoing that cracked front walkway, rebooting your curb appeal is always a good idea,” says John Alesi, REALTOR® at CENTURY 21 Award. Hire a landscaper or plant new flower beds yourself, pressure wash your driveway and replace your mail box.

2. Upgrade your toilet. While a new toilet may be pleasing to the eye, John says that modern toilets can also save you money. Toilets installed prior to 1995 can use as much as 6 gallons of water with every flush. Newer models can use as little as 1.2 gallons. “An older toilet is also more likely to leak,” notes John, “so an updated model can save you the hassle of having to make a repair.”

3. Update your light fixtures. It's amazing what proper lighting can do for your home, according to John. Replace that old, outdated bathroom vanity, swap out your chandelier, install a few sconces, and soon your home will be well-lit and sparkling.

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For more information on improvements to your home, please contact John Alesi at jalesi@cox.net, (949) 510-2154, or Century21Award.com/agents/JohnAlesi1

For more real estate information, please contact CENTURY 21 Award at info@century21award.com, (800) 293-1657, or CENTURY 21 Award.

5 Improvements that Sell Your Home

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

(BPT) - The housing market has improved across much of the country, but homeowners thinking about listing their homes need to stay competitive to attract buyers. Buyers are looking for long-term homes, ones they want to stay in for years while raising their children or settling down and retiring.

To prepare your home for listing - or to simply enjoy it a few years longer – consider upgrading with one of these five home improvements that sell.

1. Update Your Front Door
Buyers will enter through the front door to view your home, so be sure to give them a good first impression. The front door sets the tone for your home's curb appeal, as well as its overall security. It signals to buyers how well the rest of the home is maintained. If your door is in good shape, you might just need to give it a fresh coat of paint or new hardware. If it's seen some wear and tear over the years, consider replacing it with a steel door.

2. Create a Bathroom Retreat

Buyers will take note of a less than stellar bathroom. If you have a guest or master bath that could use an update, take the opportunity to replace the flooring, add cushy rugs, paint the walls and add modern accessories. Faucets, showerheads, the mirror and even the toilet can all be upgraded with water-saving and stylish designs.

3. Upgrade the Most-Used Entry Point
While the front door gets open house traffic, the garage door is traditionally the most-used door in the home. Old wooden garage doors will start to sag and the paint will peel over time. Replacing this door with an insulated steel door will not only improve the exterior look of your home, but also keep the garage space warmer.

4. Showcase an Outdoor Lifestyle
Remodeling magazine estimates homeowners can recoup up to 80 percent of their investment when adding a deck to their home. You may not consider a deck addition similar to extra square footage inside your home, but that’s how buyers will see it, especially if selling during warmer months. They'll be able to picture themselves enjoying meals outside or curling up on a lounge chair with a good book on a summer afternoon.

To upgrade an existing deck into a show-stopping selling feature, consider using a color-treated wood so that future owners can enjoy the space without the annual chore of staining.

5. Transform the Backyard
Buyers will be visualizing themselves in your backyard when touring your home. Consider adding a beautiful wooden fence to enhance privacy, which will be an asset for families with children and pets.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

5 Home Upgrades for $5,000 or Less

(BPT) - It's a sobering truth in real estate: sellers often have to spend money to make money. Even if your home is relatively new, you still face costs associated with getting it ready to show, such as repainting interior rooms or hiring professional cleaners and stagers. If your home could use some TLC and updating, spending as little as $5,000 on key upgrades could improve its appeal for buyers - and ensure a speedier sale at a better price.

Here are five upgrades you can make for under than $5,000 to help put your home at the top of every buyer's must-see list.

1. Upgrade Your Entryway
Replacing an old, dated or worn entry door can be a cost-effective way to ensure buyers get a good first impression when they walk in your house. Whether you choose a fiberglass, wooden or steel model, installing a new entry door can cost a few thousand dollars, yet the return on investment at the time of resale can be significant. A fiberglass entry door returns about 72 percent of its investment, while a steel door recoups more than 100 percent of its value, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report.

Enhance your new door with attractive plantings, fresh paint and clean windows around the entryway to create a memorable, attractive entry for just a few thousand dollars.

2. Increase Natural Light

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

More buyers are becoming aware of the mood- and productivity-enhancing benefits of natural light, and homes with big, bright windows have always been in demand. Adding windows to a room can be a costly, time-consuming affair. Not so with a skylight. For well under $5,000 and in just a day or two, a professional can install an Energy Star-qualified, solar-powered, no-leak fresh air skylight, Professional installation costs nationally range from around $900 to $2,325, with an average of $1,400, according to HomeAdvisor.com.

The most popular rooms in the home for fresh air skylights are baths, where they provide privacy in addition to natural light, and kitchens, where they vent cooking odors and humidity naturally while brightening a much-used workspace.

3. Beautify a Master Bathroom
Bathrooms and kitchens sell homes. Making a few cosmetic upgrades to even a small master bath can help increase a home's appeal and value. For less than $5,000 you can easily repaint, upgrade faucets, replace old cabinet hardware and add decorative touches like designer towels.

In addition, take a look at the floor or countertops - two cost-effective upgrades that can wow buyers. Since counters don't make up that much square footage in most bathrooms, replacing them with granite can cost just a couple thousand dollars. Tile flooring is also a relatively inexpensive way to improve a bathroom's look and usability.

4. Heat Things Up in the Kitchen
Kitchen remodels can offer high ROI for sellers, but a full remodel may be outside your budget. If you've already done the obvious - like repainting and de-cluttering - it's time to look for a few more cost-effective improvements that will appeal to buyers.

Shabby, outdated appliances can hinder a speedy sale, so consider replacing them with new ones. You don't necessarily need to install top-of-the-line, high-priced appliances to make a good impression, either. Newer, Energy Star-qualified appliances represent savings for buyers down the road.

5. Lavish Landscaping
No single aspect of your home has a greater impact on a buyer's first impression than the landscaping. A great front yard sets the tone for the rest of the home, appealing to buyers on a number of levels, including beauty, practicality and savings.

With $5,000, you can accomplish a lot in terms of landscaping. You can sod a small front yard, add decorative planting beds to a lush lawn, or even install shade trees that will both beautify the yard and enhance the home's energy efficiency in summer.

Decorative concrete stamping of walkways and driveways is another cost-effective way to improve a home's curb appeal.
Whether it's a buyer's market or a seller's market, no one wants to see their home linger long before selling. A few simple upgrades can help ensure your home gets plenty of attention this selling season.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

Avoid 5 Spring Lawn Care Fails

As this year's winter finally ends, homeowners will be faced with the same challenge they are faced with every single year: how does one keep a healthy, dark green lawn looking its best?

(FreeDigitalPhotos.Net)

Unfortunately, many homeowners will make mistakes that set back the health of their lawn and they don't even know it.

"When it comes to having a nice lawn, ironically the lawns worst enemy is the person who thinks they are helping,” says Thomas Kelly, founder of BeeSafe Lawns. “Tinkering too much is a terrible thing when it comes to lawn care.”

With that in mind, avoids these pitfalls when caring for your lawn this spring:

1. Don't Jump the Gun

Right out of the gate, it's important to know that more isn't always better. The inclination is to load up the lawn with products that the lawn doesn't really need. Your lawn is experiencing one of its most healthy phases about two weeks after it breaks dormancy. Both roots and shoots are growing at a tremendous pace and sometimes doing too much can interfere.

2. Don’t Over-Water

One of the worst things to happen to even the best lawns is the introduction of an unlimited supply of water. The rule of thumb is that you should water three times per week for 40 minutes per zone only when rainfall is not present. Remember the saying, “April showers bring May flowers”? If it's raining, resist watering.

3. Don’t Bag Your Clippings

Your lawn wants to be fed naturally. Mulching the clippings back into the soil creates an additional source of nutrients, especially nitrogen and the goal of any lawn care program should be to reduce inputs.

4. Don’t Over-Fertilize

Your lawn needs about half as much fertilizer as the fertilizer companies lead you to believe. The more you apply, the more your lawn will require even more to stay healthy.

5. Hold Off on Seeding

The temptation is hard to resist. Those bare spots that were filled with crabgrass last year are bare again this spring. The commercials on the radio are telling you to plant seed now. The truth is, fall is the best time to seed and 90 percent of the time new seed won't make it through the summer.

Source: BeeSafe Lawns
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

5 Ways to Increase Curb Appeal, Value

(Family Features)—Whether you're planning to list your home for sale soon or you're simply working to maintain features that attracted you to the charming abode in the first place, careful attention to curb appeal is a must.

In the real estate world, the saying to avoid judging a book by its cover does not apply. The exterior of your home sends an important message about its character, and even its value, making people eager to see what is inside. This first impression sets expectations for the entire property for potential buyers, appraisers and even your guests.

Keep your house looking young and inviting with these five home care tips:

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

1. Look at the landscaping. Curb appeal is about the whole picture your home presents, which includes your lawn, shrubs and features such as flower beds and rock gardens. Keep grass neatly trimmed and prune vegetation for a well-kept look. Also give your home a thorough look from the street. Are trees or shrubs obscuring an appealing architectural detail? Does vegetation dwarf your home, making it seem small? Would a pop of color from some flowering plants add to the overall look?

2. Beware of dingy dirt. Because you see your home every day, you may not realize the exterior has become dull with a layer of dust and dirt. An adjustable pressure washer will let you wash siding, garage doors and shutters without stripping paint as well as delicate items such as glass top patio tables. Then switch to the high flow mode, which delivers up to five gallons per minute for extended reach to clean second story windows, eaves and gutters or to blast away hard-to-reach cobwebs and insect nests.

3. Update with paint. If a thorough washing leaves a ho-hum look behind, it may be time to revisit your home's exterior color scheme. Even modest adjustments, from pale beige to a deeper tan, for example, can completely alter the look. Or, focus on adding color to the trim, door and shutters if new, all-over color is out of the question.

4. Wash where you walk. The favorable impression created by impeccable landscaping and a fresh, clean facade can be swept away in an instant if sidewalks, driveways and patios are unsightly. Skip the messy buckets and brush, and instead reach for a high pressure, high flow pressure washer such as those featuring Briggs & Stratton's POWERflow+ technology, which include adjustable pressure and flow as well as power-soaping detergent tanks to let you clean tough stains then quickly wash them away with a single machine.

5. Dote on the details. Decks, fences, mailboxes, birdbaths, gazebos and other decorative features all factor into your home's exterior image. Thoroughly clean these items, repair any loose or broken pieces such as fence slats, and apply a fresh coat of paint or stain, if needed.

Source: www.powerflowplus.com.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

Easy Ways to Enhance Outdoor Spaces

(Family Features)—The arrival of sun and climbing temperatures mark the end of months in hibernation and the ideal time to refresh your outdoor living space. While constructing a new deck can be a major undertaking, the planning process doesn't have to be, thanks to a wealth of online tools and resources available at your fingertips. In fact, it's now possible to design the deck of your dreams entirely on your favorite electronic device.

During the past several years, there has been an influx of online resources to help homeowners create and plan their ideal outdoor living spaces. The following are just a few of the helpful and handy digital destinations for those looking to make their dream decks a reality.

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Visual social channels. Today's social channels are packed with inspirational images. You can peruse thousands of decks and outdoor living projects on Houzz and Pinterest. You'll also find ideas from many building materials brands and suppliers on these channels, as well as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Magazine and manufacturer websites. For additional inspiration, you can flip through the digital pages of your favorite home and garden magazines via their websites, and tour the online inspiration galleries of decking manufacturers and contractors. Each destination offers a unique experience, along with valuable information about different brands and products.

Digital apps. As you transition into the design phase, seek out an online application that allows you to experiment with various combinations and configurations. The award-winning Trex Deck Color Visualizer app for iPad is one such tool. This virtual resource allows users to experiment with the colors of various deck elements, as well as different railing configurations, to design a completely customized outdoor living space. Once the user has created an ideal design scheme, the finished photo may be saved to the iPad and shared with friends, family or potential contractors.

Interactive planning tools. Those further along in the planning process can take advantage of other online resources such as sample deck plans and video tutorials. Additionally, many major manufacturers offer user-friendly deck design tools on their websites that enable homeowners to specify dimensions, materials and color selections to bring their dream decks to life.

With the many tools and resources available online, designing your dream outdoor living space can be nearly as much fun as enjoying the finished product.

Source: www.trex.com.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

Make Spring Cleaning a Family Affair

Spring cleaning your home can be overwhelming without help. If you’re a parent, enlist your children with these creative (and fun!) ways to clean, courtesy of Debra Johnson, home cleaning expert for Merry Maids.

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

• Host a Fashion Show
Go through closets and play dress up with the kids. Put away the show-stopping outfits and make piles of items that no longer fit to donate or discard.

• Skate Over Dust
Remove furniture and rugs from hardwood surfaces in your home and have your kids slide over the floor with microfiber cloths wrapped around their feet (supervision required). Have a trash bag on hand to collect dust afterwards.

• Celebrate Christmas in Spring
Help children sort through toys and games that are no longer being used for donations. Bonus - kids may re-discover items they love!

• Establish a Finders Keepers Rule
Entice little ones to help with cleaning under couch cushions or beds with a finders keepers rule, letting them know that any money found while cleaning is theirs for the taking. Hide coins in places that need the most attention, and provide each child with a jar to collect their spring cleaning savings.

Source: ServiceMaster

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

5 Tips to Avoid Home-Design Arguments

(TNS)—Sharing your life with someone is a beautiful thing, but that doesn’t always mean you share the same design and style preferences when it comes to your home. Whether you’ve lived together for one year or 20, use this advice from highly rated interior designers to stop the fights that have kept you from painting the walls or tiling the floors.

1. Start with a design plan

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Jodi Schavone, owner of Décor Coach in Apex, N.C., says to make a list of how the room has to function for each person before embarking on a design project. This will help couples and families prioritize and understand why one idea might be better than another.

Think realistically about how you’ll use the space, along with whether you have a big family or like to entertain. Look through pictures online or in magazines, and talk openly about your likes and dislikes.

2. Listen to each other
Communicate openly, and don’t forget to listen. Interior designers say the majority of their job comes down to listening to clients. Sometimes your spouse or partner might just want his or her ideas heard. Discussing concerns helps to avoid conflict, and will help you determine what he or she likes about a particular color, pattern or piece of furniture.

3. Blend your design styles
“A home is like a marriage,” Schavone says. “It won’t work if it’s one-sided.” Not everything has to match. There are ways to mix style preferences, according to Schavone. This could be as easy as using one person’s color choices with the other person’s fabric selection. You want your new space to reflect both of you.

4. Give and take to keep the peace
There are usually places in the home where each person can have it their way, says Kathy Tufts, owner of Beyond Design in Clifton, Va., For example, choose neutral themes and colors for your common area, but allow some creativity in personal offices, bedrooms or hobby rooms. You’ll have to compromise many times throughout your life. This is good practice.

5. Hire an interior designer
Bringing in reinforcements often helps you see eye to eye, but could cost you between $100 and $200 for an initial one-hour consultation. “A big part of my job is being a marriage counselor or peace mediator,” Tufts says.

Schavone agrees. “In listening to my clients, I detail what’s most important,” she says. “If I address the important parts of their ideas, they can usually give a little.”

©2015 Angie's List
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

Creating the Ultimate Time-Saving Kitchen

Five to 10 minutes may not seem like much, but it can add up quickly when cooking a weeknight meal. According to a recent survey by Consumer Reports, the average difference between actual time spent in the kitchen and what respondents desired is eight minutes.

(Image via Freedigitalphotos.net)

With that goal in mind, create the ultimate time-saving kitchen with these expert tips from chefs, designers, organizers and more.

1. Design for efficiency. The work triangle – connecting the sink, fridge, and cooktop – is still the baseline for maximum efficiency. But in two-cook kitchens, it often makes sense to have a second triangle, possibly designated around an island counter with a prep sink.

2. Think ahead. One of the top cooking gripes in Consumer Reports’ survey was that it takes too much time to plan. A slow cooker is handy for make-ahead meals. Most have nonstick interiors that help with cleanup, saving you even more time after the meal.

3. Minimize maintenance. Some materials and finishes are harder to care for than others. Stainless-steel appliances remain popular, but if fingerprints are a concern, consider installing a model with a smudge-resistant finish. As for flooring, vinyl held up best in Consumer Reports tests against scratches and dents.

4. Contain the clutter. In the kitchen, try to store things close at hand. For example, dishes and flatware should be kept in a cabinet next to the dishwasher; cutting boards and sharp knives belong near the food prep counter. Creating a separate landing spot, ideally just off the kitchen or along its perimeter, for mail, school papers and the like will help keep counters clear.

5. Make it a family affair. Look for ways to enlist other members of the household. If kids are present, designate a lower cabinet for everyday dishes or flatware, allowing young ones to help set the table.

Source: Consumer Reports

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

5 Home Upgrades Under $100

Irvine, CA, Mar 3, 2015—Looking to give your home an upgrade but lacking a big budget? According to Elsie Parker, REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Award, there are tons of small home tweaks all packing serious redesign punch. Here are five home upgrades for under $100.

(Image via Freedigitalphotos.net)

Paint. Painting has long been the budget designer's best friend. “A coat of paint can make a room feel fresh and new, and leaves ample room for creativity,” says Elsie. You can completely recolor the whole room, or add an extra accent pop on one wall.

Get new drapery. New curtains for the living room or bedroom can offer an interesting new look with minimal effort and cost. “Go seasonal with colors--think yellow for spring and bright blue for summer--or simply swap to a heavier fabric once winter arrives,” suggests Elsie.

Lighting upgrade. Install new lighting in a previously drab room to give it an immediate visual upgrade. “Bathrooms are often in need of a lighting upgrade, but another frequent offender is the front entryway, where guests view your home for the first time,” notes Elsie.

Replace hardware. Replacing the hardware on your cabinets is an easy way to give your kitchen a bit of bedazzling without breaking the bank.

Create a door shelf. Adding a shelf above a door way not only creates more storage room, but is an elegant place to display photos or books. Simply add a wooden shelf above your door and then paint it to match the door's trim.

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For additional information on home upgrades and real estate, please contact Elsie Parker, at eparker@century21award.com, (714) 402-0567, or www.esphomes.com

For more real estate information, please contact CENTURY 21 Award at info@century21award.com, (800) 293-1657, or CENTURY 21 Award.

How to Take the Stress Out of Renovating

(BPT) - If you're ready to hire someone for your first-ever home renovation, you're likely focused more on the result of the project, not the process. Seasoned renovators will tell you that even a foolproof renovation plan will require some major lifestyle adjustments. For first-timers, it's important to be prepared - financially, logistically and mentally - for the project. Keep in mind:

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Prior planning prevents poor performance. Some things in life can be over-planned, but renovation isn't one of them. Don't skimp on the planning process. You need to use patience and care when choosing a project that will increase your home's value and your enjoyment of the space. You'll also need to decide how you will finance the project, select a contractor and deal with potentially major issues.

Homeowners also need to define what they want to accomplish. For example, do you just need an updated look or do you want an entirely new living space? You can glean ideas from publications, websites and other resources and also seek out professional assistance, such as from an interior decorator.

Your contractor is going to become your new roommate. Most homeowners continue to live in their homes during a major renovation, so you'll be spending a lot of time with your contractor. Hire a professional contractor who is licensed, insured and certified. Look for a firm that is conscientious about everything it does, has an experienced team and is used to handling large projects.

To find an ideal firm, get referrals from friends and from the firm itself and look at company websites. During the interview process, talk to prospective firms about timeline, logistics, realistic expectations and budget management. It's important to understand the scope of the project and how your contractor proposes to handle any challenges that arise.

There will be dust. Dust will happen - guaranteed. Every phase of remodeling creates dust, and it's the top threat to livability during a renovation. In addition to the nuisance of dust settling throughout your home, it can cause difficulty for people with existing respiratory problems and damage your belongings. Before you sign a contract, make sure the remodeler has a dust control plan for your project.

The little things that will get to you. While your contractor is tearing down walls and re-creating your living space, life will still go on in your home. Piano lessons will continue, deliveries will take place, bedtimes will remain and meal prep will go on. Meanwhile, your contractor's crews need somewhere to park their work vehicles and might not remember to put every tool away (and out of reach of your kids) at the end of a day. It's important to communicate with your contractor about these logistics and how you can work together to make the renovation go smoothly with as little disruption to your lives as possible.

It will be worth it. A major kitchen remodeling project recoups more than 74 percent of its cost at the time of resale, and adding an attic bedroom returns more than 84 percent, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report. In addition to financial considerations, completed renovations can improve curb appeal and livability.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

The Ins and Outs of Fixer-Uppers

SAN DIEGO, CA, Feb 10, 2015—As more and more buyers enter the fold, many are considering whether to go for a move-in ready home or search for a fixer upper.

“Fixer uppers are literally everywhere, even in wealthy enclaves,” says Gabe Filkey, REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Award. What sets them apart is price. “They have lower market value than other houses in the immediate area because they have either been poorly maintained or abandoned,” Gabe explains.

(Freedigitalphotos.net)

To determine if a property that interests you is a wise investment will require a lot of work. You will need to figure out what the average home in the area sells for, as well as the cost of the most desirable ones.


Experts suggest that novices avoid run-down properties needing extensive work. Instead, they recommend starting with a property that only needs minor cosmetic work—one that can be completely refurbished with paint, wallpaper, new floor and window coverings, landscaping, and new appliances.

“Keep in mind that a home price that looks too good to be true probably is,” Gabe cautions. Find out why before pouring your hard-earned money into it.

One of the best ways to figure out what the home is worth is to get your hands on a comparative market analysis. See what price similar properties have sold for in the past and find out the listing price of others currently on the market.

“It is important to examine the fixer-upper carefully and figure out how much it will cost to fix any defects or repairs,” suggests Gabe. If you are unable to get in, talk with nearby neighbors about the home’s condition.

Gabe notes that you can also do your own cost comparison by researching comparable properties recorded at the local county recorder's and assessor's offices, or at Internet sites specializing in property records. If the property is in foreclosure, you should get as much information as possible from the lender.

When looking for a fixer-upper, some experts suggest you follow this basic strategy: find the least desirable home in the most desirable neighborhood. Then decide if the expense that is needed to repair the property is within your budget.

So-called “bad” areas—often described as those that are residentially unstable or poor—have offered an affordable means of homeownership for many—particularly young, first-time buyers and low- to moderate-income families interested in a home they can call their own. Whether it is right for you to buy a fixer-upper will depend on your personal threshold for risk and your level of tolerance. That said, however, many run-down neighborhoods, particularly those close to downtown, are benefiting from a residential resurgence as an influx of newcomers jump-start what were once staid, unsafe, or depressed areas.

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For additional information, please contact Gabe Filkey at gabe@homeviewer.com, (619) 955-3868, or www.homeviewer.com

For more real estate information, please contact CENTURY 21 Award at info@century21award.com, (800) 293-1657, or CENTURY 21 Award.

4 Ways to Keep Clutter from Overtaking Your Life

Are your closets brimming with household items? Are you using your garage to store anything but your vehicle? Has every nook and cranny become a catch-all for clutter? Many homeowners believe the solution to clutter is to purchase more – baskets, coat racks, storage units and anything else that will help them stay organized.

(Image via Freedigitalphotos.net)

"It's easy for homeowners to accumulate an abundance of items over the years. In order to keep your home clean and contented, it's important to edit out unnecessary objects," says Karen Powell, founder and CEO of Decor&You. "Especially after the holiday gift giving and receiving season, now is a great time to consider donating unwanted items to local charities and help others in your community."

Rather than bringing more items into the chaos, evaluate the items currently overcrowding your home and de-clutter your existing storage spaces. Here’s how to do it.

• Create a habit: By setting aside designated dates throughout the year to sort through storage spaces, you'll eventually form a new habit. Whether you decide to de-clutter biannually or bimonthly, establish realistic times based on your household and lifestyle. For some, it might be best to align your 'editing out' days with the change of each season. Remember to pencil these specific tasks into the calendar. Doing so will increase the likelihood that they are completed on a regular basis.

• Make it a family affair: While the de-cluttering process isn't always considered fun, sorting through storage and buried objects can be very nostalgic. For items holding sentimental value, having the family together for one last reflection can provide closure and make it easier to donate or discard. Including your family, especially children, will help them to develop a clutter-avoiding habit, too.

• Reflect, and then make a purchase: When you’re shopping and you spot something of interest, it's easy to immediately justify the purchase. Consider its purpose instead. Is it serving as an aesthetic piece? Is it replacing something outdated? What about its placement -- will it be in the open on your fireplace mantle or end up shoved in a storage bin? Use these reflections to dictate whether a purchase should be made, and establish a rule to refrain from buying excess goods. A good rule of thumb: for every two items purchased, one pre-loved item in the same category must be donated or discarded.

• Take 10 minutes a week: Beyond the designated times per year, take ten minutes each week to quickly evaluate what areas of your home need to be tackled and if there is anything simple you can do now to relieve the process in the future. Checking your kitchen pantry or refrigerator for expired goods will save you an enormous amount of time when the big clean-up rolls around.

Source: Decor & You, Inc.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

How to Get More From Your Hallway

(Image via Freedigitalphotos.net)

RAMONA, CA, Feb 3rd, 2015—Most homes have hallways, and typically these spaces aren't used for more than hanging a few photos. However, these small connecting rooms shouldn't be viewed as wasted space! Below, Karen Domnitz, REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Award shares several ways you can get more from your hallway, and your home.

Mirror it. Adding a large pane of glass to your hallway will open up your space, and offer ample room for reflection.


Add cabinets. “If your hallway is a bit wide, consider adding some wall-mounted cabinets,” Karen suggests. By mounting these cabinets on the lower half of your wall (toward the floor) you will be opening up both storage space, and creating a nice ledge for books, family photos and more.


Go full library. If you have a house full of avid readers, consider creating floor-to-ceiling built-in shelves or cubbies for books!


Install a closet. “If you have the budget and the space behind the wall, consider hiring a contractor to create a hall closet,” says Karen. And why stop at just one single closet space? Create a closet that extends the entire length of your wall. Then, add sliding mirrored doors to fill the space with light.

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For additional information on your home or real estate, please contact Karen Domnitz at kdomnitz@century21award.com, (619) 884-7654, or www.century21award.com/agents/KarenDomnitz

For more real estate information, please contact CENTURY 21 Award at info@century21award.com, (800) 293-1657, or CENTURY 21 Award.

How-To Lighten Your Living Space

EL CAJON, CA, Jan 27, 2015—Do you dream of a light, airy living space? Do you want to feel like you're living inside of a cloud? Below are 5 tips from Mary Marrow, REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Award for a lighter living space, now.

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Whiten. “From walls to wood paneling and hardwood floors, two coats of white paint will turn your living space into a year-round winter wonderland,” suggests Mary.

Minimize. A cluttered room will never feel light. De-cluttering surfaces will lighten space with smooth lines. Cut clutter by adding hidden storage systems (like an ottoman with stow space), and minimize furniture to a handful of necessary pieces.

Add mirrors. Mirrors have long-since been a go-to trick for opening up a space. In addition to wall mirrors, consider adding mirrored back splashes or mirrored trays. Not into mirrors? Sparkle can do the trick, too. Mary suggests glass-top tables and crystal candle holders.

Lighten the linens. “Breezy, airy curtains and snow-white throws will make your space seem plush and comfortable,” says Mary.

Shade it gray. To avoid looking as if you doused your house in bleach, consider adding soft, light shades of gray or blue to your color scheme.

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For more information on real estate, please contact Marry Marrow at mmarrow@century21award.com, (619) 995-9999, or www.marymarrow.com

For additional real estate information, please contact CENTURY 21 Award at info@century21award.com, (800) 293-1657, or CENTURY 21 Award.

4 Tips to Make Home Maintenance Easier

(Family Features)—Some home maintenance jobs require a significant investment of time and specialized equipment, but there are many projects you can accomplish efficiently with basic tools and the right approach. Follow these tips to get started:

Update your toolbox. Take inventory to ensure your collection is complete, and replace damaged or rusted tools. Your toolbox is also a good place to store common repair items such as adhesive.

(Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Get ahead of potential problems. For example, have a plunger on hand to prevent clogged sinks and toilets from causing water damage, and keep gutters and filters clean to prevent structural damage or fire. You can also protect your home and valuables from damage by using adhesive to secure precious items from getting knocked over, and protect floors from traffic damage by securing rugs and felt pads to furniture.

Take a helping hand. Most phones have levels and flashlights that can help with minor jobs, and your phone’s calendar can be set with recurring reminders so that you’ll never miss a maintenance date. In addition, find creative ways to make tasks easier. It can be tough to keep items in place while nailing or screwing into walls or ceilings, or installing features such as under-cabinet lighting. Glue Dots are a handy solution that won’t damage the surface, don’t expand and won’t make a mess.

Get organized. Daily home maintenance tasks like cleaning are easier when they are done along the way rather than letting them pile up, creating a bigger job. Store everyday needs in each room, or on each floor. For maximum efficiency, keep cleaning supplies in both the bath and the kitchen, and a broom and vacuum on each floor.

Making sure you have the right tools on hand and taking preventive steps to get ahead of potential problems will make minor home repair jobs quick and easy so you can get back to enjoying the comforts of your home.

Source: www.GlueDots.com.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.