CLEVER REMODELING IDEAS FOR YOUR BATHROOM

February 26, 2014 by

 

Rustic bathroom remodeling décor ideas can instantly uplift your bathroom interiors. Bring an outdoors inspired, rough hewn theme design to give your bathroom a relaxed and invigorating appearance. Have a systematic use of brown and cream colors to create a contrast, introducing spaciousness to your interiors. For instance, have brown flooring, cream colored sinks with a complementing bath tub.
Black and White
The ultimate contrast works on smaller and larger bathrooms as well. So, take the classic monotone to add sophistication. Have deep black walls that are contrasted by soft yellow color. Crisp white furnishings can be a great way of adding classiness to your bathroom décor. Make sure that you keep Mirrored Shelves and a large mirror with light overhead to add space to your interiors.
Flat Bowl Sink
Don’t have enough space or money to invest in larger, designer sinks? Well, you don’t have to worry. Try flat bowl sinks for bathroom remodeling. They will introduce modernity, sleekness and spaciousness to your interiors. Plus, installing a vanity above them is easy. Have a countertop to keep dispenser, candles or an embellishment like artificial flowers.  For a more contemporary look, have vessel sinks. They are cheaper than your regular porcelain. Vessel sinks should ideally be freestanding.
Tiling the Bathroom
Don’t just stop at the walls. Think beyond them and use tiling on the ceiling as well. Ceramic tiles can look beautiful. But make sure you use neutral colors. Have floating vanity as well. If you plan on utilizing some extra space for bathroom remodeling, then think differently and opt for an outdoor shower with a glass shower door. Use stone walls and have a remodeling company such as Limitless Renovations design it in a manner that it can be accessed through the master bedroom. And if you wish to accentuate the theme, have the outdoor area hidden from view. Keep a small sink with a countertop to keep a plush bath sheet, soap and shower gel. Accessorize with teak colored mat.
Mirrors to Modernize
Adding bathtubs can make your bathroom look cluttered. But by installing smart mirrors uk, you can add class to your interiors. Have a mirrored division between your bathroom and your bathtub. Install a larger, oval shaped mirror above the sink. These two mirrors will bounce lights, giving a spacious look to spruce up your bathroom interiors. Either use colors such as white, light green or blue in the bathroom or opt for intermix of steel and grey tones. These color palettes are modern, stylish and tend to provide an evergreen, thematic look to your bathroom interiors.
Try these ideas and ask bathroom remodeling services to employ holistic approach while remodeling your bathroom.
Rustic Bathroom Décor Ideas

 

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
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HOMEOWNERS: SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?

February 19, 2014 by

HOMEOWNERS: SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?

Should I stay or should I go. Its not just an anthemic line to a classic song from The Clash. It’s also an age-old question of homeowners everywhere. When your home’s not so perfect, you get the wandering real estate eye. But can another house really compare to what you’ve got going on?

It’s a conundrum. So much so that it’s even spawned a popular show on HGTV called Love It or List It, where owners of a problem pad fight over whether to remain in their home (with the help of a sizable budget and a skilled reno team) or move to something else.

“Families evolve, whether through the birth of children, the acquiring of possessions, or an increase in job rewards. That charming little cottage two lovebirds started out in often becomes an overstuffed matchbox with too few bedrooms and too many toys, tools, and tricycles, with people stumbling over one another in the course of daily life,” said Money Crashers. “Privacy is nonexistent, noise and tensions regularly escalate, and stress is a frequent guest at the dinner table. The only solution is more room.”

So how do you know whether to renovate or move?

CNN Money asked the same question, and has come up with “5 smart fixes” to the stay or go question.

“Happy with where you live but not so hot on your living space? Now might be the perfect time to address your abode’s architectural flaws,” they said. “With real estate prices on the rise, it’s safer than it has been in years to invest in your home.”

Especially when “remodeling away your house’s shortcomings can cost tens of thousands less than trading up to an already remodeled house, which commands a major premium now. In addition, you avoid realtor fees, moving costs, and the inevitable expense of making a new place your own, no matter how ‘turnkey’ it is.”

Here are a few of their “cost-effective solutions to the issues that most commonly force people to move.”

1. Doubling the space in your kitchen

If your home was built before the 1980s, chances are your kitchen is small and closed off from the rest of the home. Removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room or kitchen and family room is an easy and affordable way to create “a feeling of spaciousness — and also clears room for an island or peninsula that can become a key workstation or a place for family and guests to congregate,” said CNN Money. If you are planning the removal of current flooring and investing in vinyl or tiles, consider a more affordable option: epoxy. Look for resin flooring companies near me to ensure proper installation and aftercare services.

Kitchen Space

Expect to pay a minimum of $5,000 “to remove the wall and refinish the surrounding floor, ceiling, and walls,” and more if you need to add a structural beam or relocate any plumbing.

2. Adding a powder bath on the first floor

Older homes that don’t have a bathroom on the main level are not just difficult to sell — they’re difficult to live in. CNN Money says you can solve this issue by renovating existing space. “You can squeeze a powder room into a space as small as four feet by four feet or even three feet by five feet,” they said. “One option is to repurpose a large coat closet, pantry, or under-stairs cubby. Keep in mind that the closer you put the bathroom to existing plumbing, the less it will cost.”

Expect to pay a minimum of $10,000 if you use what you have and up to $25,000 if you’re building a room from scratch.

3. Turning the master bedroom into a master suite

If your master bedroom is adjacent to another room, you can take over the space. You can also choose the right size of mattress, which you can find in the Serta iComfort Hybrid Revie. “A lot of people do this when the kids go off to college,” said CNN Money.

Remember that lowering the number of bedrooms in your home can also lower your home value, so consider the equation carefully. “You always want to keep your bedroom count on par with the neighborhood,” they said. “So, in a four-bedroom house area, dropping to three may not be a good idea. But in a predominantly two-bedroom neighborhood, you’d still be way ahead of the Joneses.”

Master Suite

Expect the cost to range from $40,000 to $80,000, depending on if you are adding a master bath and exactly how spa-like you intend for it to be.

4. Converting the attic

If you’re short of bedrooms, you’ve probably thought of adding on. But home additions can be very costly. A great solution can be moving into the attic.

“For growing families, the number of bedrooms is often the biggest factor motivating a move to a bigger and more costly home,” said CNN Money. “The ideal place to add bedrooms is the square footage you already own up in the attic.”

Expect to pay $20,000 and up depending on the space allotted and whether or not you need to add windows or a staircase.

Houzz has some great questions to ask yourself if you are trying to decide between moving or remodeling:

  1. “How do you feel about your neighborhood?
  2. Is there some intangible quality to your house?
  3. Does renovating make economic sense?
  4. Does the existing house have good bones?
  5. How will the latest zoning restrictions affect the project?

 

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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5 FINANCIAL REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD BUY A HOME IN 2014

February 13, 2014 by

5 FINANCIAL REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD BUY A HOME IN 2014

High demand and short supply in the rental market have driven rates up nationwide. Shaun Donovan, Secretary of Housing & Urban Development, says “We are in the midst of the worst rental affordability crisis that this country has known.”

The projected surge in rental housing construction and available units probably won’t be enough to drive the rental market in 2014. Rental affordability has been hit by lagging income growth and a lean job market.

Slow income and job growth have also affected the housing recovery. Homeownership rates will slow and normalize asmortgage rates are predicted to reach 5% by the year’s end and home prices are expected to increase by 3%.

The question of whether to buy or rent this year is not an easy one to answer. However, keep in mind that homeownership comes with major financial rewards you’ll miss if you rent.

Factor in these 5 financial reasons for taking the leap into homeownership:

  1. Increased Net Worth: Homeowners are worth 30x’s more than renters.
  2. Investment Benefits: You are paying for housing whether you buy or rent. Invest your dollars in something you own rather than paying a landlord.
  3. Home Equity: Equity in your home can help pay for college, retirement, and major life events.
  4. Tax Benefits: Homeowners can deduct mortgage interest and property taxes from their income.
  5. Savvy Financial Habits: Owning a home means more financial responsibility and encourages better saving and spending habits.

Local real estate markets, your financial status, and personal needs and goals will all affect your housing decision. Consult a financial advisor and your local real estate professionals to help guide you to happy and healthy living in 2014. You can also look into properties for sale in SC for more options.

Are you currently renting?

What’s holding you back from homeownership?

 

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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FSBO: BUYER’S BEWARE

February 6, 2014 by

FSBO: BUYER’S BEWARE

If you're considering the purchase of a FSBO, proceed with caution!If you’re considering the purchase of a FSBO, proceed with caution!

Seller May Not Disclose What Should Be Disclosed

When a house is listed for sale by a real estate broker, the seller is required to fill out a Seller’s Preoprty Disclosure.  There are a few exemptions to this requirement; New construction, condominium units, multi-family dwellings (5+ units), vacant land, transfer due to court order( i.e., estate, bankruptcy, eminent domain, divorce decree), and HUD properties.  The seller fills out this document to the best of their knowledge and must “disclose” any problems that they are aware of in their home.  When a buyer purchases a home that is multiple listed, they will acknowledge their receipt and review of the PCDS (by initialing each page depending on which version of the form is being used) and signing the final page.

A FSBO is not required to fill out a PCDS.  In addition, a FSBO may unintentionally (or intentionally, Caveat Emptor, meaning “Let the buyer beware”) not disclose an issue with their home or may not be aware of the items that they should disclose to a potential buyer.

Contract Time Limits Maybe Too Strict or Too Loose

A purchase and sale contract has many time-frames, deadlines, and contingencies that should be written in to protect a buyer.  A buyer’s agent, who knows the contract well, will know how to structure the dates for specific situations and circumstances.

An experienced buyer's agent will properly structure deadlines and time-frames.

Whether it’s giving enough time to get the inspection(s) completed, getting their clients mortgage commitment, life of the offer, or writing a contingency for the sale and transfer of title of their existing home, an experienced agent should correctly structure the contract to ensure the sale gets done.  Some buyers utilize an attorney to draw the purchase and sale contract to send to the FSBO and unfortunately they may not have the experience with correctly structuring the contract dates, potentially due to them not having the total picture.  Without the buyer having proper Realtor representation a savvy “seller” could take advantage of a situation that may be in their best interest and not the buyers.  An example of this is “Offer Shopping.”  This is when the contract’s life is too long and the FSBO has the opportunity to sit on an offer and see if something better will come along.  This can be heartbreaking to a buyer.

Seller May Not Cooperate With Reasonable Repairs

When purchasing a home, a FSBO or not, we normally recommend hiring a reputable home inspector to have the home inspected.  Even if the home you’re considering to purchase looks “perfect” and that nothing could be wrong, having an inspection can give you additional “Peace of Mind.”  

Whether purchasing a FSBO or not, you should consider having a home inspection!

A home inspector is going to find items in every home that may not be up to current code.  One of the most important reasons to have a real agent representing you when purchasing a home is to negotiate the removal of contingency for any inspection(s) done.  Many real estate deals fall thru due to a buyer and seller not being able to agree to items discovered from the inspection.  This can happen because a buyer is being unreasonable with what they’re asking of the seller or the seller on the other hand, is not being cooperative with addressing reasonable repairs.  An experienced sellers agent should know what would be considered reasonable and what would be considered “Nit-Picking.”  Since the FSBO doesn’t have an agent representing them, they often resist when it comes to any reasonable repairs.

Seller Asking For An Unrealistic Amount For Their Home

You’re thinking of purchasing a FSBO because you’re getting a better deal, right?  This is the common thought process of buyers looking at a FSBO.  It can actually be the complete opposite.  Whether the seller had an agent complete a comparable market analysis and they didn’t like what they heard OR they want to save the brokerage fee, FSBOs are commonly overpriced by 10-25%.

A FSBO can be overpriced by 10-25% or MORE!
A FSBO can be overpriced by 10-25% or MORE!

If you don’t have a real estate agent representing you, how do you know if you’re overpaying?  A buyers agent will look at comparable sales in the area that you’re looking to purchase in and be able to explain to you what similar homes have been selling for and why.

You Maybe Responsible For Additional Costs Than If You Purchased A Non-“FSBO”

Generally, there are costs that the buyer should be responsible for when purchasing a home BUT also costs that the seller should be responsible for when selling.  A buyer typically would be responsible for the cost of an inspection (Home, Pest, Radon, Etc.) and the cost of their mortgage application.  A seller typically is responsible for an inspection ensuring that something is in good, safe, working order.  For example, if a home has a septic system installation, a real estate agent representing the buyer should write a contingency for a septic inspection with the help of a professional septic service at the sellers cost to ensure that the buyer is not purchasing a system that may have defects and request that the results be put in writing.  This may also pertain to a well water (potability) test. A FSBO often times is not willing to pay for any inspections and could attempt to make it 100% the buyers responsibility. Read more here

 

 

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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Home permits soar

February 5, 2014 by

 Home permits soar

This 5-bedroom, 4-bath home with 3,160 square feet in Golden is priced at $595,000.

 

Denver-area home builders churned our new homes as fast as they could in 2013, but it wasn’t enough to meet demand.

Last year, builders pulled permits for 6,671 single-family detached homes, a 23.4 percent jump from the 5,407 in 2012, according to a report released Wednesday by the Home Builders Association of Metro Denver.

Builders also pulled 1,278 permits for townhomes, a 39.2 percent increase from the 918 in 2012.

“Together, we saw about a 30 percent increase,” said Jeff Whiton, CEO of the HBA of Metro Denver. The report includes the counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Elbert and Jefferson, as well as all of the communities in each county. Permits indicate future construction activity so who every plans on building con look for their Building Construction Materials Supplier.

Last year, builders didn’t have enough subdivisions with lots ready to build on to meet the demand, Whiton said.

“We ran through our existing supply of finished lots pretty early last year and builders just couldn’t get enough new ones on line quick enough to meet demand from consumers,” Whiton said.

“I really think that was the major headwind on our industry last year,” Whiton said.

With fewer resale homes on the market than a year ago, builders probably won’t be able to build new homes fast enough to fill the void, he said.

“It doesn’t look like it,” Whiton said.

However, he said he still expects a similar percentage jump in activity in 2014 from 2013, as there was last year from 2012.

In addition to a shortage of lots, the home building industry is suffering from a shortage of workers.

“That is a long-term problem,” Whiton said. “Being a craftsman is a noble trade. We need to convince our up-and-coming generation that being an electrician or being a plumber or being a carpenter is a good thing. Over time, these trades traditionally pay very well.” Another long-term issue builders will continue to grapple with will be rising commodity prices such as lumber, drywall and concrete.

However, builders increasingly are finding cost-effective ways to build more energy-efficient and sustainable houses, which will lower utility costs for consumers while being better for the environment, he said.

“I think you would find that there is a green revolution going on with construction techniques,” Whiton said. “A home built 10 years ago probably had a HERS score of 130, while now it is probably 65.” The lower the HERS score, the more energy-efficient the house is.

Many consumers appear to prefer a new, energy-efficient home over an older resale home that uses more electricity and gas, Whiton said.

 

 

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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The Best Places to Watch the Super Bowl inBoulder

February 2, 2014 by

The Best Places to Watch the Super Bowl inBoulder

superbowl boulder 2014

Yes, the two states that legalized weed have made it to Super Bowl XLVIII. On February 2nd, the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks will finally face off. And even though we know who’s going to win, that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the game with some big-screen TV’s, good food, and craft beer, right? If your thinking about leaving the couch at home and going out for the Big Game, make sure to check out some of the local Boulder hotspots below.

FATE Brewing Company

Only one year old and already named the best new restaurant in Boulder in a recent Daily Camera poll, FATE is a shoe-in for one of the best spots to enjoy the Big Game. They have 10 TVs in the dining area and bar so you’ll be sure to catch all of the action no matter where you sit. For food they’ll be featuring two competing burgers specifically made to represent each of the competing teams. They will also have Happy Hour prices all day for draft beer and well drinks. Also, if you happen to be a lost Seahawks fan wandering around Boulder constantly looking over your shoulder, you’ll be happy to hear that this will probably be the only Seahawk-friendly place to go here in town since the owner is from the Seattle area. I can’t vouch for your safety with the locals though. For more information, visit the FATE Brewing Company website.

West Flanders Brewing Company

Did you hear about the epic rivalry they have going on with Seattle’s Elysian Brewing Company? Let’s just say that’s not the only exciting thing they have going on during the Super Bowl. They’ll be serving their special Orange in Brew Championship Ale and will have Happy Hour prices from 4PM to close. So grab a seat, watch from any of their six big screen TV’s, and enjoy drinking the beer all of Seattle will be tasting come monday. See their Super Bowl menu for more information and prices.

Shine Restaurant and Gathering Place

Don’t let the fresh-pressed juices and organic food fool you – this place is throwing it down caveman style on Sunday. They’re hosting an all out Paleo party that comes complete with a kitchen full of chicken wings, tacos, sliders, sweet potato fries, veggies, fruits, nuts, and everything else you can eat with your hands. So eat like crazy, watch the game, and wash it all down with one of their famous potions to forget about all of the calories you just consumed. Visit Shine’s websitefor more information.

Twisted Pine Brewing Company

Twisted Pine’s great beer is well known here in Boulder. And for the big game, they’re going to let you have it a little cheaper. Stop by to enjoy $10 pitchers of their famous draft beers and $2.50 Bloody Billys, a spicy red beer. They have six TV’s throughout the bar and dining area so you’re sure to get a good view of Peyton Manning throwing it down field. Visit Twisted Pine’s website for more info.

Lazy Dog Sports Bar and Grill

If you want to drown in flat screen TV’s everywhere you look on Sunday, then this is your place. Located right in the heart of the Pearl Street Mall, Lazy Dog will have the game on and the beer flowing. Though they don’t have any specific specials for the Big Game, Happy Hour will still be in full effect and they’ll be hosting a chicken wing eating contest during halftime. Good luck!

Conor O’Neill’s

If you want to watch the Super Bowl and feel like it’s St. Patricks day at the same time, then make sure to check out Conor O’Neill’s. They have four big-screen TV’s and will have Happy Hour from 4-7PM. To sweeten the pot even more, every time the Broncos score you can get a $4 Jameson shot or an orange and blue Bronco Bomb. They’re located right off of the Pearl Street Mall on 13th street.

Dickens Tavern

Just outside of Boulder, Dickens Tavern in Longmont is hosting a charity event for their Super Bowl party. They have a $20 entry fee, but it comes complete with fully stocked Appetizer buffet filled with chicken wings, nachos, quesadillas, meatballs and Happy Hour drink prices during the game. Though they only have one TV, it’s a huge 30-foot movie screen that will make you see all of the child-like fear on the Seahawks player’s faces. They only have 300 spots available so if you’re thinking about going, make sure to call ahead and reserve your spot. All of the proceeds goes to support the local Pro Swing Softball team.

The Connection at CU

If you’re a CU student and you still don’t know where to go, try stopping by The Connection on campus for their Soup ‘R Bowl party. They have big-screen TV’s and free soup, snacks, and drinks for all those who attend. The party starts at 2PM so come early and make sure to bring your student ID. Visit their event page for more information.

No matter where you choose to watch the game, just remember to drive safe and drink responsibly.

By  YourBoulder

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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8 WAYS MILLENNIALS CAN SAVE FOR A HOUSE

January 26, 2014 by

8 WAYS MILLENNIALS CAN SAVE FOR A HOUSE

Millennials face many challenges when it comes to buying a home. Saving up for a down payment is difficult when burdened with monstrous student loans and a tough job market. Millennials have increased credit debt and decreased personal savings compared to their parents and grandparents.

Homeownership may not be the immediate future, but improving your financial situation can begin today. The right advisors,  smart spending, and savvy saving will pave the way to your new home.

Here are 8 ways Millennials can save for a house:

  1. Hire a financial advisor: A few years out of school I was struggling to make ends meet and my debt was only getting bigger. A financial advisor helped me evaluate my finances and devise a plan to reduce debt and start saving. Interview several advisors before deciding who you want to work with.
  2. Research student loan debt options: Student loan debts are a huge burden for millennials. Contact your lender to review your options. Reducing your monthly payment can help set aside funds for a down payment.
  3. Start an automatic savings plan: Place a percentage of your salary earnings directly into a savings account.
  4.  Community Housing Innovations, Inc.
  5. Consider a roommate or two: Reduce your rent and utility bills. Car pool to save on gas when making trips to the grocery store or heading to work.
  6. Evaluate your spending habits: What are your every day spending habits? Track every expense you make over a week. Try using Mint or Level to help track your spending.
  7. Cut back on monthly expenses: Don’t overpay on gym memberships, cell phone plans, and cable TV. Choose less expensive plans and watch your savings grow.
  8. Reuse, Recycle, Repurpose: Before you go out and buy new “stuff” see what you can reuse, recycle, or repurpose.
  9. Earn extra money: Freelance and part-time work can be a great way to earn extra income. Put 100% of this income into your down payment savings.

Written by  
 

For more money saving tips click on the links below: 

USA Today

US News

LifeHacker

Photo Credit

 

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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PRICING YOUR HOME TO SELL CORRECTLY

January 21, 2014 by

PRICING YOUR HOME TO SELL CORRECTLY

Pricing

Setting your asking price correctly is the key to successful results. Guided by our local market expertise, you’ll be able to make that decision with confidence.

It is important to remember that the value of your home is ultimately not set by you, but rather by the amount of money a buyer is willing to pay for it at any given time.

PROPERTIES PRICED RIGHT:

Increase showings

Bring more interested buyers

Creates ease in the appraisal process

Keeps the prime market momentum

Sends a message about your motivation to SELL!

OVERPRICED PROPERTIES:

Helps sell the competiions

Reduce showings

Loose buyers unwilling to negotiate

Loose prime momentum

Sends a message to buyers about your motivation. (Or lack of!)

 

The best marketing in the world will not sell your home!

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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SAFETY AND SECURITY TIPS FOR YOUR CONDO UNIT

January 20, 2014 by

SAFETY AND SECURITY TIPS FOR YOUR CONDO UNIT

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Condominium buildings are becoming the preferred residences of a lot of people especially for those who would like to reside near commercial and business areas. Despite the many benefits of living in a condominium building, there are some precautions that you have to take when you decide to live in one.

Some may think that living in a Philippine condo unit is relatively safe and secure especially with the number of neighbors, security, and staff in the building. However, there are still safety and security risks no matter where you live. Below are some tips to help you make living in your condo unit safer and more secure.

  • Get to know other residents. This may seem difficult for those who prefer not to meet and mingle with other residents of thecondominium building, but this is not for social reasons. Your only goal is to know the faces and some of the names of the other residents. Not because you want to start hanging out with them, but because it pays to know whether someone loitering around the condo is a resident or not.
  • Choose a main door that has a peephole. Do not open your door to strangers no matter how they introduce themselves. The important thing is to look and see who is at the door before opening it, which is the exact purpose of a peephole. If the door to your condo unit right now has no peephole, it is worth thinking about investing on a door that has one.
  • Lock your doors. Whether you have a condo in Mandaluyong, Makati, or anywhere else, always make sure to lock your doors at all times. If a locked door cannot prevent criminals or burglars away, so much more if it’s an unlocked door.
  • Know where the exit is. No matter where you are in the building,  always make it a habit to know where the emergency exits are. This can save your life if a fire occurs or an earthquake happens. Always orient yourself on where the nearest emergency exits are.
  •  Install smoke alarms. Although this might not seem necessary for some condo residents, it’s a good way to increase fire safety in your unit. If a fire starts inside your unit, it might be difficult for the building staff to know about it. A smoke alarm will not only useful for you but also for your nearest neighbors.

Boulder Colorado Real Estate

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

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BEST SOLUTIONS FOR AN ENERGY EFFICIENT OLDER HOME

January 19, 2014 by

BEST SOLUTIONS FOR AN ENERGY EFFICIENT OLDER HOME

Home built in 1981. It has electric heat (e.g., insulation is good). Goal: to protect home equity. Budget: good. Increasing performance and lowering maintenance are key factors.

To make this home as efficient as possible there are certain things that can be done, however, if the home were being fixed up to sell, there are other things that can be done. Why?

  • One main reason: many improvements cost a lot of money to purchase and install and you will see the benefit in lower operational costs (heating and cooling) over the years.
  • You will see an ROI — return on investment and it will be worth it to you personally.
  • You may not see the same payback in the sale of the house.

The reasons for this are that – unfortunately – many home buyers do not appreciate the value of energy efficiency yet.I wish they did because this is the core of my business and it is definitely logical to consider such factors when buying a home, but at this time I would say it is not a primary factor in home buying.

Also, the market is limited. A certain size house in a certain neighborhood will only get so much in a sale price. The top money you might get may not be enough to cover the cost of the upgrades you have just made.

So keeping that in mind, this is what I would do if it was my house:

INSULATION. Be sure the house is as well insulated and sealed, from what you say it seems like it is, but check attic, cracks around windows, doors and electrical outlets. It is true – the envelope of the house is the number one key factor in energy efficiency.

WINDOWS – along the same lines. Are the windows relatively efficient. Are they double pane? Many people feel that upgrading windows is not worth the money in terms of ROI. I feel it is because it greatly improves the look and functionality of a house, not just the efficiency and when they are being installed you have a god chance to repair any rot and also caulk and seal for air infiltration.

HVAC SYSTEM. This is a big money ticket and if you were planning to stay in the house I would say definitely do it, but if you are selling I would try to figure out if the sale price would be worth the cost expenditure. Contact a heating service such as Hargrove-Neel or Lieber Mechanical for additional guidance. If you also need an HVAC repair in Fairfield, NJ or emergency HVAC repair in Waxahachie, TX, look into services such as these HVAC services in Tampa, FL.

If you decide to go for it I would seriously consider a gas or electric Forced-air system, or an air to air heat pump system (also called a ‘minisplit’ system.) This is similar to a geothermal system only it does not involve drilling into the ground. It is an extremely energy efficient (perhaps the most energy efficient) hvac system and it uses electricity as its fuel source. In your case this means you do not have to switch over to natural gas (which may not be available in your area.)

CONSIDER AN ERV OR HRV. Energy Recovery Ventilators or Heat Recovery Ventilators provide air that keeps occupants healthy, removes odors, reduces moisture, removes indoor pollutants and lowers the relative indoor humidity.

Basically they take ‘used’ heat and moisture from the air that is leaving the house, while mixing it with fresh air entering the house. Dedicated duct work is ideal for your new HRV or ERV, because fresh air is delivered to the living room and bedrooms, while stale air is removed from bathrooms, laundry room and kitchens. However if you do not have a ducted system in your house already the ERV/HRV can still be installed to great effect.

ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES. Replacing old energy hog appliances is a great way to save a lot of money every month.

ELECTRICAL LIGHTS AND ACCESSORIES. Have you changed all of your light bulbs over to LEDs? Yes you can change them to CFLs – (you may have already done so) but as these burn out I would consider LED bulbs. I find them to have a much nicer light quality, they come on instantly, can be dimmed to 20%, and each bulb will last for years longer than the CFLs. Minor things like good lighting that comes on right away can greatly improve your own mood and a home buyers mood.

Also – for yourself – things like power strips, battery back up surge protectors and master cut off switches can reduce the amount of electricity you use for tv’s and computers and other appliances and make your home and equipment more safe at the same time.

LOW FLOW PLUMBING fixtures and appliances. Many of these represent ‘low hanging fruit’ as they can easily be installed for not too much money upfront. Things like shower heads, faucets, dishwashers, and washing machines are all readily available in low flow or low use options and reduce water usage significantly. The affordability and manageability are complemented by the UK sizing feature for dishwashers.

FINISHES AND FURNISHINGS inside the house. These items have less to do with efficiency and more to do with health and durability but they often have a bigger impact on home sales.

FINISHES AND FURNISHINGS inside the house. These items have less to do with efficiency and more to do with health and durability but they often have a bigger impact on home sales.

  • What kind of floors do you have? Hardwood floors are more long lasting, durable, easier to clean and many home buyers find them more appealing than carpet or vinyl. Consider having your floors redone.
  • Same goes for kitchen cabinets and counter tops. real wood or stone, or even some of the higher end manufactured counter top products can really transform your home in a home buyers eye because they truly do represent clean, healthy, durable living.

THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR HOUSE: This is mostly a durability and maintenance issue.

  • What is the condition of your siding and roofing? If they are good, check flashing and caulks.
  • Check your gutters. Make sure that water is running away from the house top to bottom.
  • Consider installing rain barrels at each gutter downspout and use the water to water your garden or wash your car.
  • Keep in mind that you could add insulation to the outside of your house if you are considering re-siding, it costs a bit more but it does add a lot to your envelope efficiency.

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

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