Remember all those McMansions built in the past few years? Things are certainly different now, with builders and architects designing homes that generally are smaller. Courtesty of REBAC, Here are the 10 most likely features that builders will include in 2010:
1. Walk-in closet in master bedroom
2. Laundry Room
3. Insulated front door
4. Great Room
5. Low-e Windows
6. Linen Closet
7. Programmable thermostat
8. Energy efficient appliances and lighting
9. Separate shower and tub in master bathroom
10. 9-foot ceilings or higher on first floor.
Now for the following features most likely NOT to be included: Outdoor kitchen, outdoor fireplace, sunroom, butler's pantry, media room.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
"Staycation" Theme for Home Show
In tough economic times with home sales down, many exhibitors at the 40th Annual Spring HomeShow and Better Living Expo at the Salem Civic Center count on homeowners to make improvements on the homes they already own. This weekend over 100 exhibitors, from Absolute Insulation to Xpert Foundations, look for consumers to invest in their largest financial asset. Ten clinics were offered over the weekend, from installing manufactured stone to dealing with wildlife critters to organizing your home. For more information, go to www.rrhba.com/
Saturday, March 6, 2010
A Lovely Day
What another wonderful day it was in Roanoke today. It was sunny and, although not balmy, warm enough to stir our memory and remember way back when last spring. Yesterday I went on a listing appointment, filled out all the necessary paperwork, and took photos in preparation for the yearly spring sales rush.
I'm pleased to add a really nice starter home to what's currently on the market. Since it's not officially on the market yet, I can't say much about it. However, I think I can get away with posting this photo of a really cute little crocus.
Stay tuned to learn all about this great home, coming on the market very very soon!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Questions, I Love Questions
Just recently someone said to me, "one of the guys that works for me is going to be looking at selling his home. Do you have any advice on what he should do before he even contacts a realtor?"
In the current housing market it is more important than ever to price your home correctly and have it in the best possible condition. The National Association of REALTORS offers the following tips to those thinking of putting their home on the Market:
1. "Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin."
Although I have never known anyone to actually conduct a pre-sale home inspection, it is a great idea. If repairs are needed, it gives a seller time to collect estimates and select a contractor rather than rush to finish in time for closing.
2. "Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine."
By doing so sellers can also get a head start on packing for moving too!
3. "Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin."
All I can say to this is AMEN.
4. "Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house."
I'm certain you would like the current owners of your future new home to do this for you, so why don't you do the same?
5. "Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you’re a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments?"
Selling your home need not be stressful. A little bit of planning in advance makes all the difference.
In the current housing market it is more important than ever to price your home correctly and have it in the best possible condition. The National Association of REALTORS offers the following tips to those thinking of putting their home on the Market:
1. "Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin."
Although I have never known anyone to actually conduct a pre-sale home inspection, it is a great idea. If repairs are needed, it gives a seller time to collect estimates and select a contractor rather than rush to finish in time for closing.
2. "Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine."
By doing so sellers can also get a head start on packing for moving too!
3. "Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin."
All I can say to this is AMEN.
4. "Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house."
I'm certain you would like the current owners of your future new home to do this for you, so why don't you do the same?
5. "Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you’re a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments?"
Selling your home need not be stressful. A little bit of planning in advance makes all the difference.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Four Ways to Improve Your Heating and Cooling Systems' Efficiency
Four Ways To Improve Your Heating And Cooling Systems' Efficiency
1. "If your present heating and cooling systems are old and tired, you may be able to cut utility costs by as much as 50% by replacing the old system with a new high efficiency system.
2. "Even if your furnace and air conditioner are in fairly good shape, you may be able to improve the overall efficiency of the system through adjustments, maintenance, and repair to the distribution system.
3. "With the mechanical system in good shape and well maintained, you may still be able to reduce fuel costs by changing the way you operate your thermostat.
4. "Be sure that all heating systems are vented properly and that all vent pipes and chimneys are installed and lined according to code requirements. Improperly lined chimneys, vent pipes that are incorrectly installed or are of the wrong material, and dirty and obstructed pipe and chimneys can impact how the systems draft. This compromises energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and fire safety."
From Chapter 5 of The Virginia Energy Savers Handbook 2008: Department of Mechanical Engineering of Virginia Tech Blacksburg, VA 24060
1. "If your present heating and cooling systems are old and tired, you may be able to cut utility costs by as much as 50% by replacing the old system with a new high efficiency system.
2. "Even if your furnace and air conditioner are in fairly good shape, you may be able to improve the overall efficiency of the system through adjustments, maintenance, and repair to the distribution system.
3. "With the mechanical system in good shape and well maintained, you may still be able to reduce fuel costs by changing the way you operate your thermostat.
4. "Be sure that all heating systems are vented properly and that all vent pipes and chimneys are installed and lined according to code requirements. Improperly lined chimneys, vent pipes that are incorrectly installed or are of the wrong material, and dirty and obstructed pipe and chimneys can impact how the systems draft. This compromises energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and fire safety."
From Chapter 5 of The Virginia Energy Savers Handbook 2008: Department of Mechanical Engineering of Virginia Tech Blacksburg, VA 24060
Friday, January 22, 2010
Guns and Hoses Hockey Not For Wimps!
Guns to Hoses: Bring it on! Guns (area police officers) won the first five years, then last year Hoses (area fire fighters) took the lead. Will Hoses make it two years in a row, or will Guns take the win? If this year is the same as last, it will be an exciting game.
The 7th annual Guns and Hoses Charity Hockey game to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association is tonight at the Roanoke Civic Center Coliseum. Game Time is 6:00pm, doors open at 5:00 pm, admission is a $5.00 donation at the door.
Visit gunsandhoseshockey.com for additional information.
The 7th annual Guns and Hoses Charity Hockey game to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association is tonight at the Roanoke Civic Center Coliseum. Game Time is 6:00pm, doors open at 5:00 pm, admission is a $5.00 donation at the door.
Visit gunsandhoseshockey.com for additional information.
Monday, January 18, 2010
I Promise It Won't Hurt
You can contribute something that doesn't cost you a penny, yet it's invaluable. It takes about an hour of your time, and I promise it won't hurt. That something is your blood. The American Red Cross is having a blood drive at Cave Spring United Methodist Church on Wednesday, January 20th 2010 from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. Cave Spring UMC is located at 4505 Hazel Drive in Roanoke.
To schedule an appointment, find the location nearest you, or for more information, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit redcrossblood.org.
To schedule an appointment, find the location nearest you, or for more information, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit redcrossblood.org.
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