Top ways to boost curb appeal

Here's another good article from Inman News... 

Top ways to boost curb appeal

Whether selling or staying, first impression makes world of difference

By Paul Bianchina, Inman News
You've no doubt heard the term "curb appeal," which is the first impression that your home makes when a visitor arrives. Whether you have your home up for sale or just want things to look a little nicer when you or someone else pulls up out in front, the best place to start is by giving the front of your home a critical examination.

Driveway: A driveway, by necessity, tends to be a fairly dominant feature, and it is often one of the first things that a person sees when they arrive at your home. If you have a concrete driveway that is oil-stained, check with your local home center for cleaners that can spruce it up. While you're there, get a crack repair compound and take care of smaller cracks before they become larger. For asphalt driveways, a seal-coat can often make a big difference in appearance and help prolong the asphalt as well.

For concrete or asphalt that is badly damaged, it's time to be thinking about replacement. You can replace the driveway with the same material as before, or consider an updated look by using paving stones instead -- they hold up well in all types of weather, and can even be a very satisfying do-it-yourself project.

Walkways: When someone arrives, is there a clear and safe path to your front door? You may not mind walking across your front lawn, but guests and prospective buyers would definitely prefer a walkway. There are lots of options for creating a new front walkway or replacing an existing one, so check out your home center or some landscaping magazines for ideas.

Landscaping: Speaking of landscaping, do you actually have any? Is it well maintained? Few things look worse out front than an overgrown or neglected yard, and you can often remedy things with a little hard work and some minimal expense. Cut back or remove trees and bushes that have gotten out of control. Feed the lawn to get it to green up again, or consider removing all or part of it and replacing it with low-maintenance materials.

If you have planter beds, be sure they're weeded and have fresh bark in them. Plan your landscaping to create a visual appeal by not having all the same type of plant. Intersperse some plants that provide spots of color at different times of the year, and mix plants for different heights as well.

Shade Trees: Consider adding a couple of new shade trees in front. Trees are good for the environment in general; they help a home look more established and appealing; and they can help lower your summer cooling costs as well. Trees look best planted in odd numbers -- a grouping of three or five, for example -- and the folks at your local nursery can help you with proper spacing.

Exterior Paint: There is probably nothing that will help or hurt the outside of your home as much as how your paint job looks. A fresh coat of paint in up-to-date colors works wonders, while old, peeling paint in a color scheme that went out of style when Eisenhower was president can really ruin a first impression.

If the paint is in generally good condition and just has a few bad spots, spend a couple of hours with a paint scraper and a can of exterior primer to get things ready for touch up, then have your local paint store match you up a gallon of paint and touch up the primed areas so they blend in. You might also want to consider repainting the eaves or window trim in a fresh new color to liven things up a little.

A New Entrance: Your front door is one spot that every visitor has to pass though, and it can make a lasting impression. A fresh coat of paint or stain can sometimes do the trick, but if your door is badly beat up you should consider replacing it. Check with a local company that specializes in doors (not a home center) and see about having a new door matched to your existing frame. The door company will cut the door, mortise the hinges, and drill for the locks using your old door as a pattern, so you can slip the new door right into place without expensive frame alterations or extensive carpentry.

Whether you're getting a new door or working with your old one, make sure that there are no squeaks or groans when it opens, and that it fits well in the frame without binding. Check the operation of the door handle and deadbolt; check the condition of the weatherstripping; and don't forget the operation of any screen and storm doors.

Cleaning: Last but far from least, clean things up a little. Pick up any trash that's accumulated, including dead leaves, cigarette butts and other small debris. Wash the siding to remove dirt, dust and cobwebs, and wash the windows. Hose off the walkways periodically, and make sure that all exterior lighting is operational. Finally, clean off the front porch -- including porch furniture and knick-knacks -- so that that area is

Composite Decking Not Infallible

Here is an article that I read that I thought was worth passing along... 

Composite decking not infallible

Despite benefits over natural wood, warping and rotting still possible

By Paul Bianchina, Inman News

Check over the results of virtually any home improvement survey, and you will see that adding a deck consistently ranks at or near the top of the list in terms of both desirability and payback on investment. If a deck is high on your wish list, one of the primary decisions you are no doubt struggling with is what type of decking material to use -- natural wood, or one of the new plastic composite materials that have been getting so much attention lately.

The relative advantages and disadvantages of natural wood are pretty well known. On the plus side, there is the pure, natural beauty of wood, something the composites have been striving with mixed results to emulate. In the eyes of many homeowners and builders alike, nothing can ever replace the subtle grain variations and smooth glow of a piece of redwood or cedar, or one of the hardwoods such as teak or Ipe.

Then there are the obvious drawbacks to wood, which include splintering, cracking, insect and water damage, and the need for regular maintenance every one to two years. It's a tough balancing act between looks and upkeep.

So, enter the composite decks, one of the faster-growing segments of the building material industry. They have been heavily marketed, with the consistent underlying theme being that composites offer much of the beauty of wood without the hassles. True or not?

Actually, most of the main selling points of composite decking seem to be true, if occasionally a little overoptimistic. Composite decking is typically a very stable material, without the cracking and splintering associated with natural wood. You're not going to pick up a splinter walking across one of these decks, and they are also a pretty undesirable meal for an insect.

Low-dimensional shrinkage -- the tendency for a 6-inch-wide board to stay 6 six inches wide after exposure to the elements -- is also an advantage to composite decking. However, to say unequivocally that these materials will not warp would be a bit of an overstatement. There is still that possibility, and it's imperative that the manufacturer's rated spans not be exceeded, and that there is sufficient support and an adequate number of fasteners used.

While the exact composition of composite decking materials varies, they are in large part made from recycled materials, another definite advantage. Some of the decking materials can also be recycled themselves should the time come to remove the deck, but that's something you should clarify when you're shopping and comparing brands.

While virtually all of the composite decking materials contain some form and percentage of plastic or vinyl, many also contain a certain amount of wood fiber. Even though the wood fiber is blended with the liquid plastic during the manufacturing process, it is not completely impervious to rotting. The percentage of wood fiber in the makeup of the material is another consideration when shopping, and it's generally considered best to look for a product with less than 50 percent wood fiber in it.

While composite decking may not have succeeded completely in its quest to duplicate the beauty of natural wood, it's still a very attractive material in its own right. Composite decking now comes in a wide variety of colors and texture patterns, and the ability for a deck designer to select a color that blends with the deck's environment, or even to combine colors for dramatic effect, is one of the material's chief advantages. Curves are also typically easier to achieve with composite materials than with natural wood, although tight curves and intricate designs can still present some challenges to the deck builder.

That brings us to maintenance, one of the primary selling features of composite decking. Compared to natural wood, composites really do win this battle hands down, with none of the regular applications of stains and sealers associated with wood. They are not completely maintenance-free, however, and it's important that you follow the manufacturer's instructions for regular cleaning in order to maintain the best appearance. Certain substances can stain composites, such as grease from the barbecue, so it's also important that spills be cleaned up quickly and thoroughly.

Finally, there is the question of durability over time. Composites have simply not been around long enough to be able to say with complete certainty that they will or won't perform well after 10 or 15 years in the backyard. And don't be suckered in by an attractive warranty. As with virtually all building materials, the typical warranty has so much legalese in the fine print and so many exclusions for everything from improper storage at the dealer's yard to installation methods that don't strictly adhere to the manufacturer's sometimes unreasonable standards as to be pretty much useless.

If you're thinking about a composite, your best bet is to simply shop around, ask questions and do your homework. Then ask the dealer or decking contractor for the names of several people who've had similar materials in place for three years or longer, and go check a couple of them out to see for yourself how they're holding up, and what the owner's experiences with them have been.

Do & Don't List for First-Time Homebuyers

A “DO AND DON’T” LIST FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS

For most people, buying a home is the most significant investment of their lives. And in spite of the doubt and confusion clouding both the financial markets and news headlines, 2008 presents many genuine real estate opportunities – especially for first-time buyers. On average, housing inventory is up and historical data demonstrates that purchasing a home has proven a sound long-term financial investment. However, first-time homebuyers are often understandably anxious when it comes time to making what could be the largest purchase in their life. Here is a simple “do and don’t” list to make the process easier for everyone dreaming of homeownership.

DO:

DO utilize free online tools to arm you with as much knowledge as possible. For example, the Home Price Comparison Index available at http://www.coldwellbanker.com offers buyers a way to compare average housing costs in over 400 U.S. markets.

DO take time to access and closely review your credit score. A sound financial track record and solid credit score can help lock in a loan and lower interest rates. Checking your records with a fine-tooth comb in advance will also ensure that you catch any errors ahead of time, as well as help you better understand how lenders may perceive you.

DO explore mortgage pre-approval. Getting this early green light will help others involved with your purchase that you are serious about home ownership – and well-qualified.

DO line up your “all-star” team of professionals before game day. A team of experienced professionals will be key to making the home buying process simple and seamless. Start by interviewing and selecting a sales associate who you “connect” with. That sales associate should also be able to help you indentify suitable lawyers, mortgage lenders, home inspectors and others who play a role in the process.


DO anticipate your future needs and buy for lifestyle. Try to anticipate how long you’ll live in your next home and plan for major lifestyle changes when possible. What may make a perfect starter home for a couple might not work as well when children come into the picture. Remember, people move for lifestyle reasons and your first home will likely not be your last.

DO hone in on your housing priorities. Your ideal home may have a porch, a pool and five full baths. But before you start looking, make sure to separate your “must-haves” from your “nice to haves,” so you know where you can compromise to meet your budget.

DON’T:

DON’T fall in love with the first house or neighborhood you see. That grand colonial with the picturesque view may win your heart at first glance, but don’t fall in love too fast. You need to keep an open mind to make sure you find the right fit for all your needs. At the end of your search, it may turn out that the riverfront ranch that’s closer for your commute is a better bet all-around.

DON’T buy beyond what you can afford. It’s easy to fall into that all-you-can-eat attitude when it comes to your first home purchase. You “want it all” when it comes to size, amenities, location, etc. But remember that your eyes may have a larger appetite than your wallet. Make sure that the down payment, closing costs, monthly expenses and taxes are truly within your income and savings range before you sign on the dotted line.

DON’T treat your home the way you treat your stock portfolio. It’s unrealistic and unwise to expect your housing investment to appreciate as quickly as you’d hope for your technology stocks. Buying for lifestyle, as opposed to trying to turn a quick profit, will help ensure that you are viewing home purchasing and ownership in the right context.

DON’T try to time the market. By the time most consumers sense a major real estate or financial market shift, the tables have typically already turned. Instead of waiting for a slim and unreliable window of time – and potentially missing out on the perfect home – buyers should focus on their own lifestyles and buy when the time is truly right for them.

DON’T jump into an exotic or confusing mortgage. When it comes to downpayments and mortgages, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be sure to read carefully through every aspect of the proposed agreements to fully understand your end of the bargain. For instance, what seems like an attractive rate now may balloon exponentially a few years down the road. So arm yourself with information and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Going Green In Your Home

Incorporating eco-friendly measures in homes has moved beyond installing energy efficient appliances and swapping out incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescents – going green is giving home sellers a competitive advantage. With luxury condos touting eco-friendly features like rain water recycling, and home builders incorporating energy saving features into new homes, it’s no wonder real estate professionals say more and more home buyers are asking about “green homes.” In the end, small changes to a home can help the environment and help a property stand out among the competition.

It makes sense on a number of levels to incorporate green principles into a home and many consumers are surprised at just how easy it is to do so. Not only is it great for the environment but homeowners are looking at going green as an opportunity to have their home stand out from the crowd.

The following are eight tips from the professionals at Coldwell Banker Riviera Realty, that outline how to make homes sustainable, energy- and cost-efficient now, and appealing to eco-conscious homebuyers:

1. A Ray of Light: South-facing windows provide more natural daylight making a home more bright and cheery. But, more importantly, natural daylight can help keep the indoor climate comfortable during the winter months, allowing a homeowner to set the thermostat a bit lower. Alternatively, drawing shades during key daylight hours during the summer can help cut down on air conditioning needs.

2. Green Gardening: Sustainable landscaping is becoming all the rage to eco-conscious homeowners. Planting native plants, vegetation and shade trees strategically around a yard can keep a home cool during the summer and block cold winds during the winter. And native vegetation will thrive in its preferred environment without requiring excess water.

3. Switch to Green Power: The use of renewable energy in a home, such as solar, wind, water or geothermal, greatly helps reduce pollution. However, installing solar panels or wind generators property can be cost-prohibitive for some. Fortunately, many utility companies in the United States offer options to purchase a form of renewable energy that is cost efficient for the homeowner.

4. Dial it Back: Lowering the settings on water heaters, refrigerators, dishwashers and laundry machines reduces the amount of energy required to maintain the temperature. Installing low-flow sink faucets and shower heads also lessens water consumption.

5. Reuse Rain: Recycling rain water for gardening is another great way to conserve. For example, a water collection system under drains can catch the water and then reuse it for watering landscapes.


6. Less Lawn does More: Eliminate as much of the lawn as possible and plant native bushes, flowers, etc. Depending upon a number of factors (including the climate of the region), homeowners can simply cut back on the amount of space that they have to mow to promote energy conservation in lawn care.

7. Turn Old into New: Refurbish the home's existing materials when remodeling instead of buying new ones (cabinets, tiles, flooring). If brand new appliances are required, homeowners should make sure they are energy-efficient, and should consider donating their old appliances to be recycled or reused.

8. Insulation is Key: Insulating cold-water pipes will prevent them from dripping condensation, and insulating hot-water pipes will prevent costly heat loss and save on energy bill.

More signs things aren't as bad as being reported...

Matt Ferarra made a comment in his blog over the weekend that got me thinking.  He pointed out that if the economy is so bad and everyone is so broke, why is he the tenth person in line at Starbucks for a $4 coffee?  

He is right.  In looking around this weekend, I noticed a lot of the same things.  I went to Pete & Eldas (great Shore Area pizzeria and bar) for pizza on Saturday.  We waited for 45 minutes for a table.  I also went to a fundraiser picnic on Saturday in town sponsored by one of the local Knights of Columbus councils.  It was packed...and not just with Knights and thier families.  If people were truly going broke, I don't think they would be giving their money to charities in droves.  

I truly think that things aren't as bad as they are being reported.  Obviously, the markets are in turmoil.  And there is no question that home value have fallen.  But if you look at your investments as long-term and aren't worried about short-term fluctuations and if you are doing the same with your home--that you have no need to sell now and can still afford your mortgage then the turmoil in the markets are of no concern to you...and I am optimistic that the majority of people fall into that category.  

Trulia Launches Housing Crisis Site

Looks like Trulia.com, the Real Estate search and marketing site, has launched a dedicated micro-site specifically to deal with the housing crisis.  

This is a very interesting micro-level service that shows that they are changing the way that they are thinking about the market as it changes and are adjusting their services accordingly.  A great use of technology.  

Here is the link to the new site if you want to poke around and see what they are talking about in their blog or the Q&A.  

Hat tip (H/T) to the Inman News blog  

Credit Freeze? Not So Fast!

A lot of media out there is reporting that there is a mortgage or credit "freeze".  (See this story in the Cleveland Plain Dealer) As is usually the case, the media hysteria is based in truth, but isn't entirely true.  I met today with a mortgage representative.  His message was quite clear...you can STILL get a mortgage.  

Of course, mortgage companies are being MUCH more selective about risk and to whom they will lend money but that is a good thing!  We wouldn't be in this situation now if we had these standards in lending all along.  

If you are credit worthy (over 700 credit score) and can verify your assets and income you shouldn't have any trouble getting a loan.  

Fannie and Freddie are getting more and more restrictive but even people who no longer qualify for those programs may still qualify for FHA loans.  

If you want to buy, don't give up hope. All is not lost.  

BTW--the National Association of REALTORS reported today that the pending sales of home rose 7.4% in August. 

Things to think about before buying a "fixer"

There is a home for just about anyone.  You can purchase a resale home in an established neighborhood, buy raw land and have a custom-built home or select new construction in a brand-new development. 

There are also "fixers." And while some buyers wouldn't dream of tackling a major remodeling job, others love the fact that with imagination and plenty of elbow grease they can convert a tired home with "good bones" into the home of their dreams.  

All houses are different, but here are some guidelines to help you find a fixer with good potential: 

• Look for a house that is structurally sound and requires only cosmetic changes
• Have the home inspected to help you pinpoint mechanical, structural, or system upgrades that may be necessary. 
• Ask yourself if the neighborhood can support the improvements you want or need to make.  In other words, will you be able eventually to recover the value of your investment in time and fix-up costs? 
• Consider whether the existing home is worth a fix-up.  In areas where building lots are scarce, the value may be in the land.  Then youor best course may be tearing down the old structure and  rebuilding. 
• Think about who will do the work.  Can you do much of it or will you hire to have it done? How much time do you have? 
• Determine how you will finance both the home and the cost of repairs.