2010 Remodeled Homes Tour June 5 to 6

Those planning a home remodeling project this summer will want to attend the 2010 Remodeled Homes Tour June 5 to 6. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry of Idaho (NARI), will showcase home remodeling projects primarily in Boise and Meridian.

“It’s a great tour for everyone. You get to see pictures of what the home used to look like, versus what it was. It showcases all the possibilities through remodeling,” said Teri Ottens, executive director of the local Nari chapter.

“While the tour targets a very select group of people,” Ottens said, “we see everyone from people in their late 20s up to their 60s coming through.”

Ten homes will feature minor or major revamps – from smaller bathroom or kitchen remodels to homes that are completely revamped – inside and out. Home tours are self-guided, but contractors are available at every site and are able to answer questions.

Homes will be open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Tickets are $5 online, by phone at 322-8191, or in person at any of the homes. Additionally, a map highlighting their locations is available at the Nari of Idaho Web site.

source:  ibr

To search the MLS real time Click Here
To obtain a free market evaluation for your home Click Here
To chat with Matthew Le Baron Click Here

Remodeling Tips

Thinking of remodeling but don’t know where to start?  Let your mouse do the heavy lifting and transform your current space into your dream home.  These days everyone turns to the Web to get inspired. In fact, a study conducted by Princeton Survey Research International found that 69 percent of Americans use the Internet as a source of information when it comes to housing and investment decisions.

“Whether you’re an expert do-it-yourselfer or this is your first home improvement project, the Internet can be an excellent resource,” said Danny Lipford, host of the nationally syndicated television show, “Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford,” and frequent contributor to “The Early Show” on CBS. ” And the tools available on the Web just keep getting better and better – with educational videos, downloadable shopping lists, budget and return-on-investment calculators.”

Getting started: The ABC’s of ROI

With a project as daunting as remodeling a home, sometimes the most difficult part is just getting started.  The key? Prioritizing. Start your renovation by concentrating on the rooms you use the most and offer the best return on investment (ROI):  your kitchen and your bathroom.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2010 Cost vs. Value report, homeowners will recoup the greatest share of their costs by foregoing super-deluxe projects in favor of mid-range kitchen and bath remodels.  A mid-range kitchen remodel brings an average 72.1 percent return on investment and a mid-range bathroom project has an average 71 percent cost recovery.

Budget-minded enhancements

A “mid-range” kitchen or bath remodel sounds great on paper – but what types of projects does that really entail?  Realtor magazine offers a few budget-minded enhancements to consider when remodeling:

• Add or replace tile – Purchase low-cost tiles to replace a dated backsplash or add a new one.
• Install granite tile instead of a slab – While granite kitchen counters are extremely popular, they can be a $5,000 upgrade. Instead, put in 12-inch granite tiles for as little as $300 in materials. You’ll get the same impact for less.
• Freshen up your bathroom. This is a room that can be refreshed with little effort: try simple updates like regrouting tile or reconditioning cabinets. These small upgrades can make a big impact.

Planning on the World Wide Web

Now that you’ve decided on the projects you’d like to undertake, it’s time to begin the planning process.  Begin by looking at everything from current trends and style options to the nuts and bolts of estimated budgets and time to completion.

In the kitchen

Websites like dannylipford.com are a great place to get ideas and support from fellow homeowners.  The site DIYnetwork.com gives visitors an overview of a variety of kitchen projects, with step-by-step instructions, a list of the materials needed and the products their designers recommend.  And, there’s a time frame, price range and difficulty level listed for every project, helping you to choose a kitchen remodel that’s doable for you.

In the bath

Moen’s website is another great resource and features many design and planning videos to help inspire homeowners.  The site even offers an interactive faucet selector tool, which helps you choose the right faucet for your space.  Simply answer a few questions about your decorating style, how much you’d like to spend and which finish and features are important to you.  Another way to stay up to date in the remodeling world is by signing up for Moen’s At Home eNewsletter, which provides trends and ideas for your home.

“The best advice I can offer when tackling a remodeling project is to relax and enjoy the ride,” added Lipford. “While it’s easy to become overwhelmed, trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to try new things. At times, it may seem easier to call in a professional, but you’ll have a great sense of pride in knowing that you did the job yourself.”

To search the MLS real time Click Here
To obtain a free market evaluation for your home Click Here
To chat with Matthew Le Baron Click Here

Sweat Equity on the Rise!!

Jim and Kristina have taken advantage of the real estate market.

At the start of 2009 this couple sold their home in Meridian with the intention of moving to California to be near family. After months and months of looking at several homes in the Golden State, the couple became discouraged and began to sense that Boise Idaho’s pricing, along with quality of living, was too good to pass up. With that, Jim, Kristina and I began a search for their new home.

New construction, short sales, bank-owned property and occupied homes alike all had positives and negatives. When the dust settled, however, the couple found that a well-built bank-owned property within a cozy community fit the bill very nicely. Although the floors were ratty, the paint distasteful and curb appeal lacking, the home had much potential. The kitchen was open and bright with plenty of cabinet space, the floor plan flowed with ease and the quality of construction was first rate. In 2006 this home would have sold for the mid 180′s but by working together, the Beans were able to make the purchase for only $130,000.

Jim and Kristina have always been “handy” people. In fact, while in California the couple spent many weeks helping their son and daughter construct their personal home. During this time, Jim and Kristina learned trades that included installing tile, hardwood flooring, siding-you name it!! The knowledge was definitely put to good use.

The work began. Kristina began stripping the countertops and laying tile. Jim started pulling the dirty carpet and ripped vinyl planning to lay a hickory floor. All the while, doing prep work for the full interior paint job. After nearly 30 days of sleeping on cots and eating cold dinners, the Beans completed their project and invited me over to see the results of their “sweat equity”.

I could hardly believe that it was the same home! The smell of fresh paint and lacquer was prevalent while Kristina excitedly directly me toward the kitchen. Granite and tile graced the middle island, countertops and backsplashes; the cabinetry was antiqued while the stainless steel appliances topped it off. “Wow!” I exclaimed. Next, Jim spoke about the hickory flooring that was laid throughout the first floor. It was gorgeous and only cost $1,000 for the material! Jim and Kristina were proud of their work and had every right to be.

Before leaving, Jim and I discussed the market and what the home might sell for right now. At least $150,000, I mentioned, if not more. Jim stated that he and Kristina had put $2,000 (plus or minus) into material and couldn’t be more thrilled that they had realistically made $16,000 for their time. “In a year or so, Matt, we’ll be doing this again. And also, my kids down South are itching take advantage of the pricing around here”.