Vintage Home Blog

Being your own real estate agent is a challenge

2011-04-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Via Flickr: thinkpanama

Today’s market challenges are prompting more sellers to work with a real estate agent than ever before. According to the National Association of Realtors® 2009 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, “for-sale-by-owner” transactions dropped to a record low 11 percent.

And in almost half of those sales, the owners sold their home to someone they already knew.

Navigating the increasingly complex real estate transaction is much easier when sellers have professional help. The decline in unrepresented sellers indicates a growing awareness of how complicated the current market is.

More than anyone, sellers understand how tough this market has been over the past few years. The drop in for-sale-by-owner transactions illustrates the value consumers place on Realtors® as the first, best source for real estate information and insights – they know that Realtors® can help them reach their real estate goals.

Today’s sellers must compete not only with their fellow homeowners who are selling, but also with the increased inventory of distressed properties offered in short sales or foreclosures. In addition, unrepresented sellers face myriad marketing disadvantages. The Home Buyer and Seller Profile revealed that more than half of sellers without professional assistance didn’t actively promote their homes to potential buyers. Those that did relied primarily on methods with limited exposure, including yard signs, word-of-mouth and newspaper ads.

Most of today’s buyers are online – nearly 9 out of 10 recent buyers used the Internet in their home search – and unrepresented sellers have no access to major online marketing avenues such as REALTOR.com and other Web sites with large pools of listings to which buyers are attracted.

Although there are sites that cater to unrepresented sellers, their total listings are in the tens of thousands in contrast with more than 4 million homes showcased on REALTOR.com.

Professional experience and insights also pay off. In 2009, a typical property without professional assistance sold for $172,000 compared with $215,000 for the typical agent-assisted property. Sellers are more likely to generate competitive bids by working with a professional.

Realtors® have specific knowledge of local markets and know what matters to buyers in your area. We sell hundreds, if not thousands, of homes over the course of their careers, compared to the average person who may only move a handful of times during their lifetime. Realtors® have the experience homeowners need to sell their home.

Is your home-renovation project really worth doing?

2011-04-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Maybe you've watched one too many home improvement shows. Perhaps you're still stinging from that holiday guest's comment about how your kitchen countertop has seen better days. Or maybe you're just really tired of the same old, same old every day.

Whatever the reason the remodeling itch has settled into your brain, before you bring in a contractor - or pick up a hammer - you should consider two important questions: How will you fund your project? And will it be worth it in the end?

A little research and credit self-assessment can answer both questions. In addition to pulling your credit report to see how likely you are to qualify for good loan terms, you should consider the potential resale value of the improvement, how it will improve your life and if it will enhance your enjoyment of your home.

Fortunately, it's not difficult to evaluate the potential resale value. Kitchen and bathroom remodels, adding a deck, or finishing a basement or attic are all popular renovations because they upgrade the most-used rooms in the house or add living space.

In terms of resale value, here are some popular projects with high paybacks, according to Remodeling Magazine's 2009-2010 Cost versus Value Report:

* Adding an attic bedroom - 83.1 percent

* Adding a wooden deck - 80.6 percent

* Minor kitchen remodel - 78.3 percent

* Major kitchen remodel - 72.1 percent

* Basement remodel - 75.4 percent

* Bathroom remodel - 71 percent

Keep in mind that smaller remodels, while costing less than major jobs, can still have a major impact on how your home looks and feels. For example, simply replacing that old front door with a steel version can cost around $1,000 but offers a return on investment of nearly 129 percent, according to the report.

Another factor to consider when weighing the value of any remodeling project is how it will affect your quality of life in terms of financial security. It's important to be sure the cost of the project won't be a financial burden that detracts from your enjoyment of the results.

To help understand your current credit status and how it might affect your remodeling loan terms, obtain a copy of your credit report. Websites like CreditReport.com can provide you with a credit report with your paid monitoring membership. Obtaining your credit report and monitoring your credit can help you identify any inaccuracies or errors that might lead to higher interest rates, and also catch and resolve potential fraud quickly. You'll also find tips on the website for understanding your credit, and tools such as a credit score tracker to help you anticipate how certain financial decisions - like financing a remodel - might affect your credit.

Remodeling projects will likely remain popular as homeowners continue to stay put in a still-sluggish real estate market, experts agree. With some careful planning, budgeting, research and credit insight, you can ensure you reap the most financial and personal value for whatever renovation you decide to undertake.

Tips for better home showings

2011-03-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

Via Flickr: Pat Williams

When your home is on the market, it's under the spotlight. Buyers are scrutinizing the value of your home based on its location, its amenities and its appearance.

So, when it comes time to open your home for potential buyers you need to put your best foot forward. Here are a number of items to keep in mind to ensure your home showings are successful

Remove clutter and clear off counters

Throw out stacks of newspapers and magazines and stow away most of your small decorative items. Put excess furniture in storage, and remove out-of-season clothing items that are cramping closet space. Don’t forget to clean out the garage, too.

Wash your windows and screens

This will help get more light into the interior of the home and demonstrates pride of ownership.

Keep everything extra clean

A clean house will make a strong first impression and send a message to buyers that the home has been well-cared for. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, mop and wax floors, and clean the stove and refrigerator. Polish your doorknobs and address numbers. It’s worth hiring a cleaning service if you can afford it.

Rid your house of smells
Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the windows to air out the house. Potpourri or scented candles will help.

Turn on the lights and brighten your rooms

Put higher wattage bulbs in light fixtures to brighten up rooms and basements. Replace any burned-out bulbs in closets. Clean the walls, or better yet, brush on a fresh coat of neutral color paint.

Fix it up with minor repairs

Small problems such as sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet may seem trivial, but they’ll give buyers the impression that the house isn’t well-maintained.

Get your yard in shape
Cut the grass, rake the leaves, add new mulch, trim the bushes, edge the walkways, and clean the gutters. For added curb appeal, place a pot of bright flowers near the entryway.

Patch holes

Repair any holes in your driveway and reapply sealant, if applicable.

Use vibrant colors in the living room

A colored afghan or throw on the couch will jazz up a dull room. Buy new accent pillows for the sofa.

Make the bathrooms feel luxurious

Put away those old towels and toothbrushes. When buyers enter your bathroom, they should feel pampered. Add a new shower curtain, new towels, and fancy guest soaps. Make sure your personal toiletry items are out of sight.

Lock up valuables, jewelry, and money

While a real estate salesperson will be on site during the showing or open house, it’s impossible to watch everyone all the time.

Leave the home

It’s usually best if the sellers are not at home. It’s awkward for prospective buyers to look in your closets and express their opinions of your home with you there.

Upgrades enhance Visalia home for sale

2011-03-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

2349 N Thomas St, Visalia, listed at $209,000.

A meticulously kept family home is a perfect find for the discerning buyer.

Look at this home with nearly 2,200 square feet of living space.

The spacious kitchen is highlighted by with granite counter tops, a Viking 6-burner professional cook top with Versa Ventilation and upgraded appliances.

There are Trey ceilings in the living room, dining room, master bedroom that add to the open feeling.

A sparkling pool and cooling misters are perfect for those hot summer days and the outdoor fireplace will provide the warmth needed when the sun goes down.

There's a spectacular master suite with a large master bath and dual closets. Upgrades and improvements throughout provide the added value buyers are looking for: new HVAC; new energy efficient pool pump; new energy efficient windows; alarm system; ceiling fans throughout; crown molding; 220 power in the garage; stereo speakers strategically located in the kitchen, patio and living room; 2 year roof certification provided; and much, much more.

Call today for your private showing.

Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384 or Vince Ingrao (559) 799-9165

South Visalia beauty on the market

2011-03-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

1018 S Tracy St, Visalia, listed at $150,000.

A four bedroom, three bath home is looking for a new owner.

This immaculate 1,889-square-foot home is two stories and features a three-car garage and a crystal clear swimming pool off of a covered patio.

There is a fireplace in the living room to warm up those cold days. The living room has beautiful wood laminate flooring.

The kitchen has light oak cabinetry, tile counter tops, a center breakfast bar and a large window.

Pride of ownership is evident throughout this home. You will enjoy the mature landscaping in both the front and back yards.

Call the Vintage Home Guys today for an appointment.

Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384 or Vince Ingrao (559) 799-9165

Existing homes answer important questions

2011-02-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

One of the great benefits of buying an existing home is really knowing what you are getting.

Established neighborhood with good neighbors? Check
Mature landscaping? Check
Close to schools and shopping? Check
Knowing that a manufacturing plant isn't being built behind you? Triple check

Via Flickr: Ann Rossley

Those are some of the immediate advantages you get when you move into your new, existing home. New home buyers don't always have that security. It takes years for those questions to be answered.

But there's more to be gained from buying an existing home than tall trees and neighbors who you know mow their lawn every Saturday.

In fact, while new home buyers are often paying premium for upgraded features in their home, you are getting premium features at a great discount as an existing home buyer.

Existing homes are older homes, and over the years standards have changed in Visalia and throughout Tulare County. Lot sizes were larger years ago, so you are more likely to get more space with an existing home.

Most established neighborhoods have fully developed parks and recreational areas, and better access to shops and services in the center of town.

If you are in the market for a home with a pool, you can easily find one already completed. With an existing home, you won't have to put up with the mess and inconvenience of the pool construction. Also, you can easily determine the cost of maintaining the pool by asking the current owner.

Speaking of expenses, you will have a better handle on what your expenses will be with an existing home because the property is already established. No waiting for the tax assessor to make the adjustment from bare dirt to improved property. Your place will already be set on the tax roll (not that it makes any of us happy).

Most homes that are put on the market include a number of upgrades the current owner has already paid for, so you get more bang for your buck when you buy an existing home.

If you are in the market for a home, don't overlook the great properties that are ready for immediate move-in.

Elderwood business for sale

2011-02-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

37611 Millwood Dr. Woodlake, listed at $210,000.

If you have ever taken a leisurely Sunday drive through the community of Elderwood, just north of Woodlake, you probably have seen the historic Elderwood Market.

The iconic log cabin-style structure is an attraction all its own amidst the nearby scenery.

Now this bit of history and country charm can be yours.

Listed at $210,000, the price includes beer and wine license, all inventory and fixtures.

It's a high-traffic area. It also includes a small park area on the property with picnic table and horse shoe pits.

Additionally, there is a trailer on the property that rents for $350 per month. Don't miss this unique business opportunity.

For more information and pictures, click here.

Call Vincent Ingrao (559) 799-9165 or Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384 for an appointment today!

Beautiful Porterville home on the market

2011-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

1053 Lindale Ave., Porterville, listed at $145,000.

Just listed - come see this beautiful home that is within walking distance of Monache High School in Porterville.

This 3-bedroom, 1.75-bathroom home features 1,564-square-feet of living space.

Rich, mahogany floors in the living room really make this home stand out. Stay warm and cozy in winter by the fireplace.

The backyard is designed for entertaining with its sparkling pool.

Call Vincent Ingrao for an appointment today. (559) 799-9165

Improve your buying power

2011-02-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Via Flickr: Jeremy Brooks

Unless you have the cash to buy a home outright, you will be relying on your credit to obtain a loan for the purchase. For most of us our good credit is something closely guarded. We want it to reflect our sense of responsibility to pay the debts we owe.

Yet, even when we are diligent black marks can appear on our credit, through no fault of our own. Identity theft, date entry errors and other problems can create negative marks on a credit report which can downgrade your score. If you are in the market for a home you will need to clear up inaccuracies quickly.

Here are four steps you can take to manage the accuracy of your credit report and leverage your best buying power.

1) Get a free copy of your credit report from all three reporting bureaus. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com to request your free copy. Under federal law, you can receive a free copy of your credit report every 12 months.

Go through each report thoroughly and verify each item is correct, including the amount owed, your payment history, any reports of late payments and other details. If you find an inaccuracy and wish to dispute it, go here for a sample letter and the appropriate steps to take.

2) Pay your bills on time. This is the best way to ensure a good credit report and subsequent score. If you tend to be slow in making payments or are forgetful, sign up for an automatic bill pay service through your bank where payments can be made automatically each month.

3) Understand how your score is determined - and what affects it. In the lending industry, most institutions look at your FICO score. FICO stands for Fair Isaac Company, which developed and calculates the credit model.

Some factors that affect your score are: paying bills on time, how much debt you have, what types of debt you have, how long is your credit history, and have you applied for credit recently.

Although you can get your credit report once a year for free, your FICO score is a proprietary product, so in most cases you will have to pay the credit bureaus to see it.

4) Learn the legal means of improving your credit score - and avoid scams. There are lots of companies that advertise promises of cleaning up negative credit "100% guaranteed." Most of them want a fee, and they want it up front.

There are many low cost and no cost ways of cleaning up your credit report, some of which we have already mentioned above.

Identity theft is on the rise in our society. Taking steps to monitor your credit and protect your financial identity is one thing you simply cannot leave to chance.

New price for southeast Visalia home

2011-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

1018 S Tracy St, Visalia, listed at $150,000.

Take a look at this hard-to-find four bedroom, three bath southeast Visalia home.

This immaculate 1,889-square-foot home is two stories and features a three-car garage and a crystal clear swimming pool off of a covered patio.

There is a fireplace in the living room to warm up those cold days. The living room has beautiful wood laminate flooring.

The kitchen has light oak cabinetry, tile counter tops, a center breakfast bar and a large window.

Pride of ownership is evident throughout this home. You will enjoy the mature landscaping in both the front and back yards.

Call the Vintage Home Guys today for an appointment.

Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384 or Vince Ingrao (559) 799-9165

Great value in northeast Visalia home

2011-02-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

2349 N Thomas St, Visalia, listed at $209,000.

A financial plan for your home

2011-02-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

Via Flickr: Anne Rossley

Your home is probably your biggest investment. To manage it, create a financial plan that takes into account repairs, upgrades, mortgages, insurance, and taxes.

Do you pay each home-related expense as it comes? If so, you're missing opportunities for upgrades, or much worse, heading into a financial crisis when a slew of surprise maintenance items hit. So take a holistic look at what it costs to operate your house and set up a home financial plan.

Use our home financial plan budget worksheet, and start by writing a list of expenses, such as:

•Mortgage

•Taxes

•Home insurance, including liability

•Repairs and maintenance, such as new furnace, roof, painting

•Voluntary upgrades, such as a swimming pool, a premium range, a new powder room

What will you learn from this home financial plan weekend exercise?

•How much you have to spend

•How much you need to allot in the short- and long-term for necessary maintenance and voluntary improvements

With this newfound grip on your home's expenses, you can create a home financial plan that'll help you there for years with maximum enjoyment and minimum anxiety.

The mortgage: Pay it--and then some

Yup, you already shell out a lot for your mortgage, but can you pay more? Even a little extra each month can add up to an earlier payoff. Let's say you have $200,000 in outstanding principal and a 20-year fixed-rate mortgage at 5%. Your monthly payment is $1,319.91. But if you can manage to pay another $100 a month, you'll save $14,887 in interest.

Run the numbers yourself for your home financial plan.

Advantages of an early payoff, says Alan D. Kahn, a financial planner in Syosset, N.Y.:

•Less debt means more money to spend later.

•It feels darn good to own your house outright as soon as possible.

•Minimal tax loss. Toward the tail end of the life of a loan most of your payment goes to the principal, not the interest, so you're getting only a small tax break anyway.

Of course, if you're still saving for retirement, put the 100 bucks elsewhere:

•A retirement plan

•An account for the inevitable home repairs

•An account for discretionary improvements, which can raise your home's value

Insurance: Protect your property

Your vegetable garden is pointless without a fence to keep out rabbits; likewise, your home financial plan will come to nothing without an insurance "fence":

Homeowner's insurance. Basic coverage (http://www.houselogic.com/articles/homeowners-insurance-are-you-over-or-underinsured/) for your home and everything in it. The average cost is $636 per year but this varies widely by state.

Liability coverage. Protects you from a lawsuit if someone gets hurt on your property, for example. Your best bet: An umbrella policy. For about $300 a year you can by a typical $1 million policy.

Various disaster insurance policies. Optional policies cover flood, earthquake, and hurricane damage. As part of your home financial plan, you have to research to see what disaster coverage, if any, you need in your area, and what your standard policy already covers. For $540 a year you can buy flood insurance, for example.
Don't under- or overbuy insurance

For your basic policy, get homeowners insurance with full replacement coverage in case your house burns to the ground.

That sounds simple, but heads up on calculation. Remember that you own a house as well as the land on which it sits. So even though you bought your home for $300,000, it may cost only $100,000 to rebuild it. Your policy limits should reflect this. This difference will vary widely by region.

Another heads up: Don't make the common and potentially disastrous mistake of thinking that because your home has fallen in value you need less insurance. If you bought a $1.2 million townhouse in Florida during the boom, it's true it now may only sell for $600,000. But the replacement cost of the townhouse hasn't changed much, so you can't improve your home financial plan by cutting insurance costs that way.

Other ways to cut your insurance budget:

•If you make structural improvements, such as adding storm shutters, your insurer may give you a break.

•If you belong to certain groups, such as AARP or veterans' organizations, your premiums may be lower.

Repairs and renovations: By choice or necessity

You own a home, so you'll be spending money on everything from a new faucet to-surprise!-a new roof. Freddie Mac and other authorities say as part of your home financial plan, you should be prepared to spend 1% to 3% of the market value of the home annually on maintenance. To be extra-prudent, open a savings account and make regular payments until your account reaches 1% to 3% of your home's current value.

To help you budget:

Start with the inspection report you received when you bought the house. Did the inspector indicate that you would need a new roof in five years? A new furnace in 10?

Keep a log of your major appliances' age so you can estimate when they'll need replacing. Some estimated life spans:

•Roof: 20-25 years

•Heating systems: 15-20 years

•Range/ovens: 11-15 years

•Water heaters: 8- 13 years

Then get estimates on what replacements will cost and start saving.

Consider ongoing non-emergency maintenance, too. Do you live in New England? Price a snow blower and get bids from plow services.

Resist the siren call of the home equity loan to take care of everything. That just defeats your efforts to pay off the mortgage early.

Separate out what you want from what you need. A $50,000 kitchen remodel is nice, but you'll recoup only 76% of the project cost your home's resale, according to Remodeling magazine.

If you can afford to redo, go for it. Just don't confuse your necessary repairs (new oil furnace-about $4,000) with your discretionary upgrades (Viking range-$6,000 and up).

Taxes: (Almost) no way around them

Even if your lender handles your property taxes from an escrow account, you need to budget for them in your home financial plan. They creep up almost every year, it seems. Take responsibility for tracking the changes in your area: Look over past tax bills to get a sense of how quickly they've risen in the past.

Or if your lender handles escrow and you haven't saved your bills, ask for an accounting. The median annual property tax payment is $2,198, but that hides the enormous range in medians from state to state:

•New Jersey: $6,320

•New York: $3,622

•California: $2,829

•Alabama: $383

•Louisiana: $188

You can generally deduct property taxes on your federal return. A tax pro can tell you how much of a tax break you'll get, to help you fine tune your home financial plan.

You may be able to reduce your tax burden by getting a reassessment. Do your homework first: Are comparable houses taxed less than yours? Ask the local assessor what formula is used to set tax rates. You can challenge the assessed value and get yourself a rollback.

If you're in a special group, you might get some help from state or local programs. Check around to see what's available in your area. New York State, for example, has its Star Program for giving senior citizens some relief from school-related property taxes.
______________________________________
Richard J. Koreto is a managing editor of finance, taxes, and insurance at HouseLogic. He has been editor of several professional financial magazines and is the author of "Run It Like a Business," a practice management book for financial planners. He and his wife own a pre-Civil War house in Rockland County, N.Y.

Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Copyright 2011.

7 homeowner tax advantages

2011-01-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

Via Flickr: GottShotts

When you're evaluating how much home you can afford, make sure you factor in the tax advantages of homeownership.

Owning your home not only allows you to build wealth through appreciation, but it can also reduce the amount of income tax you pay every year.

Here are seven tax benefits for homeowners.

1. Homebuyer tax credits
If you purchased your first home before April 30, 2010, you're entitled to a tax credit of up to $8,000. If you currently own a home, but sold it to purchase another home before April 30, 2010, you're eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $6,500.

2. Deductions for loan fees
Typically, you can deduct the "prepaid interest" you paid when you got your mortgage loan. That includes points, loan origination fees, and loan discount fees listed on your settlement statement, even if the seller paid those fees for you. Each time you refinance your home, you can deduct prepaid interest fees.

However, you must meet certain requirements to take the prepaid interest deductions when you purchase or refinance your home. Check with your accountant to be sure you're following the rules.

3. Property tax deductions
In the year you purchase your home, you're entitled to deduct the real estate taxes you paid at the closing table. You can continue to deduct the property taxes you pay each year.

4. The mortgage interest deduction
Every year, you can deduct the amount of interest and late charges you pay on your mortgage and home equity loans, though there are limitations. If you're required to purchase private mortgage insurance (PMI) because you made a downpayment of less than 20% on your home, you can also deduct those premiums as mortgage interest expenses.

5. Home office expenses
If you have a home office you use only for business, you may be eligible to deduct the prorated costs of your mortgage, insurance, and other expenses related to that space. The government scrutinizes home-office deductions closely. Be sure you're entitled to the deductions before claiming them.

6. The costs of selling your home
In the year you sell your home, you can deduct the costs of selling it, including real estate commissions, title insurance, legal fees, advertising, administrative costs, and inspection fees. You can also deduct decorating or repair costs you incur in the 90 days before you sell your home.

7. The gain on your home
If you lived in your home for at least two of the previous five years before you sell it, the government lets you to take up to $250,000 of profit on the sale of your home tax free. That amount is doubled for married couples. This deduction isn't available on rental or second homes.

The government also allows you to subtract from your home sale profit any amounts you spend on improvements, such as window replacement, siding, or a kitchen remodel. Those deductions are in addition to the tax credits you can receive in 2010 for making energy-saving upgrades. Money invested for routine maintenance and repairs doesn't count.

This article includes general information about tax laws and consequences, but is not intended to be relied upon as tax or legal advice applicable to particular transactions or circumstances. Consult a tax professional for such advice; tax laws vary by jurisdiction.

More from HouseLogic
More on the mortgage interest deduction
Claiming your homebuyer tax credit
Tips to use when preparing your return

Other web resources
More information on homeownership deductions
IRS information on the mortgage interest deduction
________________________________
G.M. Filisko is an attorney and award-winning writer who's enjoyed the tax advantages of homeownership for more than 20 years. A frequent contributor to many national publications including Bankrate.com, REALTOR® Magazine, and the American Bar Association Journal, she specializes in real estate, business, personal finance, and legal topics.
Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

How to assess the real cost of a fixer-upper house

2011-01-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

When you buy a fixer-upper house, you can save a ton of money, or get yourself in a financial fix.

Trying to decide whether to buy a fixer-upper house? Follow these seven steps, and you'll know how much you can afford, how much to offer, and whether a fixer-upper house is right for you.

Via Flickr: Jim Hammer

1. Decide what you can do yourself

TV remodeling shows make home improvement work look like a snap. In the real world, attempting a difficult remodeling job that you don't know how to do will take longer than you think and can lead to less-than-professional results that won't increase the value of your fixer-upper house.

•Do you really have the skills to do it? Some tasks, like stripping wallpaper and painting, are relatively easy. Others, like electrical work, can be dangerous when done by amateurs.

•Do you really have the time and desire to do it? Can you take time off work to renovate your fixer-upper house? If not, will you be stressed out by living in a work zone for months while you complete projects on the weekends?

2. Price the cost of repairs and remodeling before you make an offer

•Get your contractor into the house to do a walk-through, so he can give you a written cost estimate on the tasks he's going to do.

•If you're doing the work yourself, price the supplies.

•Either way, tack on 10% to 20% to cover unforeseen problems that often arise with a fixer-upper house.

3. Check permit costs

•Ask local officials if the work you're going to do requires a permit and how much that permit costs. Doing work without a permit may save money, but it'll cause problems when you resell your home.

•Decide if you want to get the permits yourself or have the contractor arrange for them. Getting permits can be time-consuming and frustrating. Inspectors may force you to do additional work, or change the way you want to do a project, before they give you the permit.

•Factor the time and aggravation of permits into your plans.

4. Double check pricing on structural work

If your fixer-upper home needs major structural work, hire a structural engineer for $500 to $700 to inspect the home before you put in an offer so you can be confident you've uncovered and conservatively budgeted for the full extent of the problems.

Get written estimates for repairs before you commit to buying a home with structural issues.

Don't purchase a home that needs major structural work unless:

•You're getting it at a steep discount

•You're sure you've uncovered the extent of the problem

•You know the problem can be fixed

•You have a binding written estimate for the repairs

5. Check the cost of financing

Be sure you have enough money for a down payment, closing costs, and repairs without draining your savings.

If you're planning to fund the repairs with a home equity or home improvement loan:

•Get yourself pre-approved for both loans before you make an offer.

•Make the deal contingent on getting both the purchase money loan and the renovation money loan, so you're not forced to close the sale when you have no loan to fix the house.

•Consider the Federal Housing Administration's Section 203(k) program, which lets qualified purchasers wrap up to $35,000 into their mortgages to upgrade their home before they move in.

6. Calculate your fair purchase offer

Take the fair market value of the property (what it would be worth if it were in good condition and remodeled to current tastes) and subtract the upgrade and repair costs.

For example: Your target fixer-upper house has a 1960s kitchen, metallic wallpaper, shag carpet, and high levels of radon in the basement.

Your comparison house, in the same subdivision, sold last month for $200,000. That house had a newer kitchen, no wallpaper, was recently recarpeted, and has a radon mitigation system in its basement.

The cost to remodel the kitchen, remove the wallpaper, carpet the house, and put in a radon mitigation system is $40,000. Your bid for the house should be $160,000.

Ask your real estate agent if it's a good idea to share your cost estimates with the sellers, to prove your offer is fair.

7. Include inspection contingencies in your offer

Don't rely on your friends or your contractor to eyeball your fixer-upper house. Hire pros to do common inspections like:

•Home inspection. This is key in a fixer-upper assessment. The home inspector will uncover hidden issues in need of replacement or repair. You may know you want to replace those 1970s kitchen cabinets, but the home inspector has a meter that will detect the water leak behind them.

•Radon, mold, lead-based paint

•Septic and well

•Pest

Most home inspection contingencies let you go back to the sellers and ask them to do the repairs, or give you cash at closing to pay for the repairs. The seller can also opt to simply back out of the deal, as can you, if the inspection turns up something you don't want to deal with.

If that happens, this isn't the right fixer-upper house for you. Go back to the top of this list and start again.

More from HouseLogic
What you need to know about foundation repairs.
Budgeting for a home remodel.
Tips on hiring a contractor.

Other web resources
This Old House remodeling cost estimates.
Check the average return on different remodeling projects.
_________________________________
G.M. Filisko is an attorney and award-winning writer whose parents bought and renovated a fixer-upper when she was a teen. A regular contributor to many national publications including Bankrate.com, REALTOR® Magazine, and the American Bar Association Journal, she specializes in real estate, business, personal finance, and legal topics.
Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Copyright 2011.All rights reserved.

Selling your home in 2011? Tips to add value during winter months

2011-01-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

Major home renovations can be overwhelming, but there are a few fundamental repairs that can update your home's appearance and increase its value. If you're planning to sell your home in 2011, take advantage of the colder winter months to prepare your home for a spring sale by focusing on a few key projects:

Make a first impression.
The entryway is the first up-close encounter a potential homebuyer will have with your home. Manicure your front yard and update or even replace your front door to complement your home's exterior. Select a rich, dark stained wood or bold white door to draw attention to the main entry and add personality to your home. If your door is already in great shape, consider a simple replacement of weak or older-looking hardware that will impress buyers at first sight.

Get cookin' in the kitchen.
Experts agree that a kitchen can significantly impact a home's perceived value. An outdated kitchen can be a deal breaker for many homebuyers. Naturally, then, it's the place you might spend the most amount of time updating. To increase the appeal of your kitchen, consider investing in updated, matching appliances that match the style of your kitchen. Some manufacturers even offer replacement panels to update the exteriors of older appliances.

Next, if you can't afford to add new cabinetry, change out the hardware so the knobs, drawer pulls and handles match your decor and add a modern flair. Adding technology-driven fixtures, including built-in water filtration systems, garbage disposals and high-tech faucets is another great way to increase the room's appeal. Delta Faucet's Touch2O Technology will impress homebuyers and add a sense of luxury to the room. The technology enables users to turn the faucet on and off with just a touch anywhere on the spout or handle, and is available on a variety of models.
Update and upgrade light fixtures.
Lighting is key. It can drastically change the look and feel of a room, and lighting fixtures are affordable and relatively simple to install on your own. Shop discount stores and home improvement depots to find a statement piece to add spice to your living room. A beautiful ceiling fan with lighting can serve double-duty to update your family room. Remember, well-lit and bright rooms appear larger and more open.

Step on it.
Flooring is one of the first things that potential homebuyers notice. Make sure you dust, vacuum and clean so that you show off the flooring to its best advantage. If you have carpet, consider replacing it with wood floors or wood alternatives. If you already have hardwood floors, polish and protect your flooring so that it gleams when potential buyers step into the home.

Whether you're trying to sell your home this winter or simply want to update its look, you don't have to wait until the spring thaws. When the cold weather drives you inside, take advantage of the time to make attractive upgrades that can increase the appeal and value to your home.

Historic Elderwood Market for sale

2011-01-10T09:01:00.000-08:00

37611 Millwood Dr. Woodlake, listed at $210,000.

Call Vincent Ingrao (559) 799-9165 or Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384 for an appointment today!

The value of home maintenance

2011-01-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

Via Flickr: KaCey97007

Regular home maintenance is key to preserving the value of your house and property.

If you think home maintenance is an unavoidable series of weekend-eating chores, remember the age-old advice of Benjamin Franklin: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." The fact is, proactive maintenance is essential to preserving the value of your home-without it, your home could lose 10% of its value. Regular, routine maintenance enhances curb appeal, ensures safety, and prevents neglected upkeep from turning into costly major repairs.

"It's the little things that tend to trip up people," says Frank Lesh, former president of the American Society of Home Inspectors and owner of Home Sweet Home Inspection Co. in Chicago. "Some cracked caulk around the windows, or maybe a furnace filter that hasn't been changed in awhile. It may not seem like much, but behind that caulk, water could get into your sheathing, causing mold and rot. Before you know it, you're looking at a $5,000 repair that could have been prevented by a $4 tube of caulk and a half hour of your time."

Maintenance affects property value

Outright damage to your house is just one of the consequences of neglected maintenance. Without regular upkeep, overall property values are affected.

"If a house is in worn condition and shows a lack of preventative maintenance, the property could easily lose 10% of its appraised value," says Mack Strickland, a professional appraiser and real estate agent in Chester, Va. "That could translate into a $15,000 or $20,000 adjustment."

In addition, a house with chipped, fading paint, sagging gutters, and worn carpeting faces an uphill battle when it comes time to sell. Not only is it at a disadvantage in comparison with other similar homes that might be for sale in the neighborhood, but a shaggy appearance is bound to turn off prospective buyers and depress the selling price.

"It's simple marketing principles," says Strickland. "First impressions mean a lot to price support."

Prolonging economic age

To a professional appraiser, diligent maintenance doesn't translate into higher property valuations the way that improvements, upgrades, and appreciation all increase a home's worth. But good maintenance does affect an appraiser's estimate of a property's economic age-the number of years that a house is expected to survive.

Economic age is a key factor in helping appraisers determine depreciation-the rate at which a house is losing value. A well-maintained house with a long, healthy economic age depreciates at a much slower rate than a poorly maintained house, helping to preserve value.

Estimating the value of maintenance

Although professional appraisers don't assign a positive value to home maintenance, there are indications that maintenance is not just about preventing little problems from becoming larger. A study by researchers at the University of Connecticut and Syracuse University suggests that maintenance actually increases the value of a house by about 1% each year, meaning that getting off the couch and heading outside with a caulking gun is more than simply a chore-it actually makes money.

"It's like going to the gym," says Dr. John P. Harding, Professor of Finance & Real Estate at UConn's School of Business and an author of the study. "You have to put in the effort to see the results. In that respect, people and houses are somewhat similar-the older (they are), the more work is needed."

Harding notes that the 1% gain in valuation usually is offset by the ongoing cost of maintenance. "Simply put," he says, "maintenance costs money, so it's probably best to say that the net effect of regular maintenance is to slow the rate of depreciation."

How much does maintenance cost?

How much money is required for annual maintenance varies. Some years, routine tasks, such as cleaning gutters and changing furnace filters, are all that's needed, and your total expenditures may be a few hundred dollars. Other years may include major replacements, such as a new roof, at a cost of $10,000 or more.

Over time, annual maintenance costs average more than $3,300, according to data from the U.S. Census. Various lending institutions, such as Directors Credit Union and LendingTree.com, agree, placing maintenance costs at 1% to 3% of initial house price. That means owners of a $200,000 house should plan to budget $2,000 to $6,000 per year for ongoing upkeep and replacements.

Proactive maintenance strategies

Knowing these average costs can help homeowners be prepared, says Melanie McLane, a professional appraiser and real estate agent in Williamsport, Pa. "It's called reserve for replacements," says McLane. "Commercial real estate investors use it to make sure they have enough cash on hand for replacing systems and materials."

McLane suggests a similar strategy for homeowners, setting aside a cash reserve that's used strictly for home repair and maintenance. That way, routine upkeep is a snap and any significant replacements won't blindside the family budget. McLane's other strategies include:

Play offense, not defense. Proactive maintenance is key to preventing small problems from becoming big issues. Take the initiative with regular inspections. Create and faithfully follow a maintenance schedule. If you're unsure of what needs to be done, a $200 to $300 visit from a professional inspector can be invaluable in pointing out quick fixes and potential problems.

Plan a room-per-year redo.

"Pick a different room every year and go through it, fixing and improving as you go," says McLane. "That helps keep maintenance fun and interesting."

Keep track. "Having a notebook of all your maintenance and upgrades, along with receipts, is a powerful tool when it comes to sell your home," advises McLane. "It gets rid of any doubts for the buyer, and it says you are a meticulous, caring homeowner." A maintenance record also proves repairs and replacements for systems, such as wiring and plumbing, which might not be readily apparent.
____________________________________________
John Riha has written six books on home improvement and hundreds of articles on home-related topics. He's been a residential builder, the editorial director of the Black & Decker Home Improvement Library, and the executive editor of Better Homes and Gardens magazine. His standard 1968 suburban house has been an ongoing source of maintenance experience.

Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Copyright 2011. All rights reserved.

What's old is new again

2010-12-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

A rising trend among home buyers, and subsequently builders, is a house that looks and feels reminiscent of the homes of yesteryear.

Via Builder Magazine and USA Today

New homes are starting to acquire the vintage home sensibility. A recent article in USA Today titled "Downsizing the American Dream: The shrinking house" reported on the emerging trend on new construction.

As it turns out, home buyers are in the market for something smaller than the large homes we see today.

The median home size in America was near 2,300 square feet at the peak of the market in 2007, with many McMansions topping 10,000.

Today, the median home size has dropped to about 2,100 square feet and more than one-third of Americans say their ideal home size is actually under 2,000 square feet, according to a survey by real-estate site Trulia.

"The whole glow of bigness kind of wore off all of a sudden," said Sarah Susanka, an architect and the author of The Not So Big House book series.

Not only size, but the proliferation of rooms, such as formal living and dining rooms, as well as dedicated rooms like media/game rooms and libraries/offices are falling out of favor with buyers.

In its place trend watchers are seeing home that our grandparents would have built: Modest in size, functional, efficient and comfortable.

It's not just the inside of the house that's changing, it's the outside, too. The yards are smaller, with many developments favoring shared green spaces over big private yards.

And, the front porch is back. Builders are increasingly moving the garage to the back of the house and adding a big porch on the front.

Seeing a big porch through the dining room, and a shared green space beyond that adds to the illusion that you are getting more — and it makes you want to get out there and reconnect with your neighbors.

As long-time aficionados of vintage homes, we have always known that there is more to an older home than just a look. There is a purpose and function behind the look, and now it seems we are appreciating those old sensibilities anew.

Find and prevent electrical fire dangers

2010-12-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

Some electrical fire dangers are hidden inside the walls, but if you know the warning signs, you can keep an electrical fire from happening in your home.

Most homeowners know that overloading circuits and using frayed extension cords can lead to electrical fires. But there are other electrical fire dangers in your home that, while they may not be as obvious, are no less dangerous.

According to the most recent data from the National Fire Protection Association, electrical failure or malfunction caused an estimated 52,500 fires in U.S. homes in 2006, resulting in 340 deaths, 1,400 injuries, and nearly $1.5 billion in property damage. Here are warning signs of four potential hazards that you may not know about. If any of them sound familiar, consider hiring a licensed electrician to conduct a wiring inspection ($200 to $300).

Hidden danger #1: Old wiring

The lifespan of an electrical system is 30 to 40 years. But more than 30% of the nation's houses-some 30 million homes-are more than 50 years old. "Older homes with fuses were set up for about 30 amps of power; many homes now have 100, 150, even 200 amps of power," says John Drengenberg, consumer safety director for Underwriters Laboratories, which conducted a study of aging residential wiring.

Warning signs of inadequate power include circuit breakers that trip or fuses that blow repeatedly, and an over-reliance on extension cords. "They're meant to be temporary," Drengenberg says. "If you have extension cords routed all over, it's time to get an electrician out there. Your home would not comply with the National Electrical Code."

Hidden danger #2: Aluminum wiring

Many houses built in the 1960s and early 1970s have aluminum wiring, which oxidizes and corrodes more easily than copper and has been linked by the Consumer Product Safety Commission to electrical fires.

"It's okay for a while, but it doesn't have the life that copper does, particularly where wires terminate. The terminals and splices are known for overheating," says Roger L. Boyell, a forensic engineer in Moorestown, N.J.

Short of a whole-house wiring upgrade, an electrician may be able to head off potential problems by installing copper connectors called pigtails at receptacles and breakers. "It's time-consuming," Boyell says, "but there's no big equipment involved."

Hidden danger #3: Arc faults

An arc fault-which occurs when electrical current veers off its intended path, often through a breach in wiring-is a leading cause of electrical fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. It doesn't take much to cause an arc fault. You could damage wiring inside the wall when hanging a cabinet, a piece of furniture could cut through a cord, or there may be a loose connection in an outlet.

The resulting arc, capable of producing heat in excess of 10,000 degrees F, can be nearly impossible to detect. But arc faults are preventable. A device called an arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) senses these dangerous abnormalities in wiring or appliances and shuts down the circuit before it overheats. The Electrical Safety Foundation International estimates that the use of AFCIs could prevent 50% to 75% of fires caused by arc faults.

AFCIs are now required on circuits covering most general living areas in new houses. (Note: These are not the same as ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs, which are used in kitchens, baths, and other wet areas to prevent electrical shocks.)

But they're even more valuable in older houses, where connections may have degraded over the years. It's an easy job for an electrician to upgrade standard circuit breakers, which don't protect against arc faults, to AFCIs. At $30 to $50 per breaker, it could cost a few hundred dollars to retrofit every circuit. Still, weighed against the potential tragedy of a house fire, it's money well spent.

Hidden danger #4: Counterfeit electrical products

If you've ever gone to a flea market and seen vendors hawking extension cords, power strips, night lights, batteries, even circuit breakers for ridiculously low prices, there's a reason. They're probably counterfeits, and they're incredibly dangerous. "I've seen extension cords all over the country that have inferior copper in them-it's speaker wire, and it literally melts in your hands," says Brett Brenner, president of the Electrical Safety Foundation International. "They're putting a lot of people at risk."

Your best bet is to buy electrical products only from reputable retailers who will take things back if they don't work. And look for the Underwriters Laboratories seal. On low-cost items that are ripe for counterfeits, UL puts its logo in a holographic label that's much more difficult to reproduce.

If the worst happens: Extinguishing an electrical fire

Electrical fires are tricky to put out. If you douse them with water, you run the risk of electrocution, and not all chemical fire suppressants will extinguish them completely. To be safe, make sure your household fire extinguisher is rated A-B-C, which indicates that it is effective against fires involving ordinary combustible materials, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment.
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Serial remodeler Pat Curry is a former senior editor at BUILDER, the official magazine of the National Association of Home Builders, and a frequent contributor to real estate and home-building publications. Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Protect your home from termite damage

2010-11-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Termite damage

(ARA) - As Americans head outside to tend to their lawns and repair their houses, it's just as important to consider what might be happening out of sight, deep inside the home.

Termites, which are found in every state except Alaska, live in colonies that eat continuously. These wood-destroying pests eat homes from the inside out, making their presence difficult to detect.

Termites annually cause more than $5 billion in damage, and the destruction termites cause is not normally covered by homeowners insurance, leaving owners to pay an average of $3,000 in out-of-pocket costs for repairs, according to Terminix.

"In most cases, it's easy to tell when a house is in need of repair. Either the paint is chipping or the roof is leaking. But that's not usually the case with termite activity," says Paul Curtis, a Terminix entomologist. "Because termites are often active in the least visible areas of a home, it can be difficult for the homeowner to tell whether they have a termite problem or not."

Usually, homeowners will only be able to tell they have a termite infestation during swarm season. That's when winged, reproductive termites leave their colonies and establish new ones.

A swarm can be identified by the large number of flying termites and by the discarded wings they often leave near doors and windows.

"Termites do not discriminate. They eat wooden framing, support beams and the wood flooring inside your home the same way they would a tree in the forest," Curtis says.
While swarming only takes place during certain times of the year, termite colonies never stop eating, even to rest or sleep. Unless evidence of a swarm is discovered, or damage is severe enough to be noticed, a trained professional will most likely be required to identify the presence of termites within a home.

Although eliminating termites requires the help of a trained professional, homeowners can take the following proactive steps to make their homes less inviting to these wood-destroying pests:

1. Fix the roof or plumbing leaks. The moisture from these allows termites to survive above ground.

2. Clean and repair gutters. Gutters that do not drain properly can allow water to accumulate near the foundation.

3. Eliminate wood-to-soil contact. Any wood that simultaneously touches the soil and the home can provide termites with direct access to the structure.

4. Keep mulch or soil from being piled against the home's siding. Soil or mulch allowed to pile up against the home can hide termite activity.

5. Avoid storing items in the crawlspace. Pieces of scrap lumber, boxes or even books can serve as a food source for termites.

6. Maintain adequate ventilation in crawlspaces. Termites prefer moist conditions. Eliminating moisture can help make the environment less suitable to them.

7. Use a mesh screen on all windows, doors and ventilation openings. Screening will help prevent winged termites from entering the home.

8. Schedule an annual inspection with a trained professional. Prompt treatment and regular inspections can save thousands of dollars in damage repair.

5 tips for deciphering your home loan's good-faith estimate

2010-11-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

By G. M. Filisko - Knowing how to read your good-faith estimate can help you save money on your home loan.

When you're shopping for a mortgage loan, it's sometimes hard to understand the jargon lenders use in the good-faith estimate explaining the costs and fees you'll pay when taking out a mortgage.

Via Flickr: billaday

When you apply for a mortgage, the lender has three days to give you a good-faith estimate of the fees and interest rate you'll pay, as well as other loan terms. Here are five tips for using the new three-page form to your advantage.

When you apply for a mortgage, the lender has three days to give you a good-faith estimate of the fees and interest rate you'll pay, as well as other loan terms. Here are five tips for using the new three-page form to your advantage.

Know which fees can increase and by how much

In the past, lenders provided an estimate of the costs involved in getting your home loan, and if those costs rose by the time you closed on your home, tough luck. The good-faith estimate shows some fees the lender can't change, like the loan origination fee that you pay to get a certain interest rate (commonly called points) and transfer costs.

The form also lists the charges that can increase by up to 10%, like some title company fees and local government recording fees. The lender must cover any increase over that amount.

Finally, the good-faith estimate lists the fees that can change without any limit, such as daily interest charges.

Look for answers to basic loan questions
In the summary section, lenders explain your loan's terms in simple language. Can your interest rate rise? If so, a lender must spell out how much the rate can jump and what your new payment would be if it does. Can the amount you owe the lender increase, even if you make your payments on time? If it can, a lender must show you the potential increase.

Evaluate the "tradeoffs" on a loan
In the new "tradeoff table," you can ask lenders to provide details on the tradeoffs you can make in choosing among home loans. If you'd like the same loan with lower settlement charges, how will the interest rate change? If you'd like a lower interest rate, how much will your settlement charges increase?

Compare apples to apples with the shopping chart

Included on the good-faith estimate is space for you to list all the terms and fees for four different loans, so you can make side-by-side comparisons.

Know what's missing from the good-faith estimate
The new form lacks some key information, such as how much you'll reimburse the sellers for property taxes they've already paid on the home. It also doesn't tell you the amount of money you'll have to bring to the closing table. Some lenders have created supplemental forms providing that information. If yours hasn't, ask for it.
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More from HouseLogic

More on the new good-faith estimate form

Other web resources

The new U.S. Housing and Urban Development good-faith estimate

More on shopping for a loan

G.M. Filisko is an attorney and award-winning writer who has encountered many settlement statements that bore no resemblance to the lender's good-faith estimate. A frequent contributor to many national publications including Bankrate.com, REALTOR® Magazine, and the American Bar Association Journal, she specializes in real estate, business, personal finance, and legal topics.

Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved.

How to assess the real cost of a fixer-upper house

2010-11-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

By G. M. Filisko - When you buy a fixer-upper house, you can save a ton of money, or get yourself in a financial fix.

Via Flickr: JC-Pics

Trying to decide whether to buy a fixer-upper house? Follow these seven steps, and you'll know how much you can afford, how much to offer, and whether a fixer-upper house is right for you.

Decide what you can do yourself

TV remodeling shows make home improvement work look like a snap. In the real world, attempting a difficult remodeling job that you don't know how to do will take longer than you think and can lead to less-than-professional results that won't increase the value of your fixer-upper house.

Do you really have the skills to do it? Some tasks, like stripping wallpaper and painting, are relatively easy. Others, like electrical work, can be dangerous when done by amateurs.
Do you really have the time and desire to do it? Can you take time off work to renovate your fixer-upper house? If not, will you be stressed out by living in a work zone for months while you complete projects on the weekends?

Price the cost of repairs and remodeling before you make an offer

Get your contractor into the house to do a walk-through, so he can give you a written cost estimate on the tasks he's going to do.
If you're doing the work yourself, price the supplies.
Either way, tack on 10% to 20% to cover unforeseen problems that often arise with a fixer-upper house.

Check permit costs

Ask local officials if the work you're going to do requires a permit and how much that permit costs. Doing work without a permit may save money, but it'll cause problems when you resell your home.
Decide if you want to get the permits yourself or have the contractor arrange for them. Getting permits can be time-consuming and frustrating. Inspectors may force you to do additional work, or change the way you want to do a project, before they give you the permit.
Factor the time and aggravation of permits into your plans.

Doublecheck pricing on structural work

If your fixer-upper home needs major structural work, hire a structural engineer for $500 to $700 to inspect the home before you put in an offer so you can be confident you've uncovered and conservatively budgeted for the full extent of the problems.

Get written estimates for repairs before you commit to buying a home with structural issues.
Don't purchase a home that needs major structural work unless:

You're getting it at a steep discount
You're sure you've uncovered the extent of the problem
You know the problem can be fixed
You have a binding written estimate for the repairs

Check the cost of financing

Be sure you have enough money for a downpayment, closing costs, and repairs without draining your savings.

If you're planning to fund the repairs with a home equity or home improvement loan:

Get yourself pre-approved for both loans before you make an offer.
Make the deal contingent on getting both the purchase money loan and the renovation money loan, so you're not forced to close the sale when you have no loan to fix the house.
Consider the Federal Housing Administration's Section 203(k) program, which lets qualified purchasers wrap up to $35,000 into their mortgages to upgrade their home before they move in.

Calculate your fair purchase offer

Take the fair market value of the property (what it would be worth if it were in good condition and remodeled to current tastes) and subtract the upgrade and repair costs.

For example: Your target fixer-upper house has a 1960s kitchen, metallic wallpaper, shag carpet, and high levels of radon in the basement.

Your comparison house, in the same subdivision, sold last month for $200,000. That house had a newer kitchen, no wallpaper, was recently recarpeted, and has a radon mitigation system in its basement.

The cost to remodel the kitchen, remove the wallpaper, carpet the house, and put in a radon mitigation system is $40,000. Your bid for the house should be $160,000.

Ask your real estate agent if it's a good idea to share your cost estimates with the sellers, to prove your offer is fair.

Include inspection contingencies in your offer

Don't rely on your friends or your contractor to eyeball your fixer-upper house. Hire pros to do common inspections like:

Home inspection. This is key in a fixer-upper assessment. The home inspector will uncover hidden issues in need of replacement or repair. You may know you want to replace those 1970s kitchen cabinets, but the home inspector has a meter that will detect the water leak behind them.
Radon, mold, lead-based paint
Septic and well
Pest

Most home inspection contingencies let you go back to the sellers and ask them to do the repairs, or give you cash at closing to pay for the repairs. The seller can also opt to simply back out of the deal, as can you, if the inspection turns up something you don't want to deal with.

If that happens, this isn't the right fixer-upper house for you. Go back to the top of this list and start again.

_______________________________________________
More from HouseLogic

What you need to know about foundation repairs

Budgeting for a home remodel

Tips on hiring a contractor

Other web resources:

This Old House remodeling cost estimates

Check the average return on different remodeling projects

G.M. Filisko is an attorney and award-winning writer whose parents bought and renovated a fixer-upper when she was a teen. A regular contributor to many national publications including Bankrate.com, REALTOR® Magazine, and the American Bar Association Journal, she specializes in real estate, business, personal finance, and legal topics.

Reprinted from HouseLogic with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved.

10 steps to a perfect exterior paint job

2010-11-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

As we descend further into Fall, the days are running short on opportunities to give your home a new, exterior paint job. If you are planning on giving a fresh coat of paint before the rainy season, here are a number of things you will want to keep in mind.

Via Flickr: Ross

A good exterior paint job isn't cheap, but done right, it can easily last 10 or more years. To get the most for your money, follow these steps.

At first glance, the days of wood home exteriors seem long gone. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, homes with wood siding comprise less than 10% of all new residential construction, the lowest usage of any exterior material.

But if you've got wood siding, there's a solid, money-in-the-bank reason why you'd want to repaint rather than switch to fiber-cement, brick, or vinyl. In the short term, repainting or staining costs less. A mid-range vinyl siding replacement project will cost you around $10,000, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report. By comparison, hiring a pro to repaint the same 2,000-square-foot, two-story house costs $4,000 to $6,000.

True, if you're planning to stay in your house for a long time, you'll have to spend that money again. But properly applied, exterior paint can easily last 10 years or longer. The key to a successful job is in the preparation. Here are the steps to take to make sure you get perfect results.

Step 1: Check for lead paint
Beginning April 22, 2010, all paint contractors must observe EPA regulations for lead-safe practices and be certified to perform this work. The rule applies to houses built before 1978, when lead paint was banned for residential use, especially those that are occupied by children. (Do-it-yourselfers are exempt.)

To protect against airborne lead particles, contractors must take steps to keep paint dust to a minimum: collecting scrapings, cleaning with a HEPA vacuum, wearing masks and Tyvek suits, and disposing of all materials at an approved hazardous materials site.

The first step is to initiate the process with a lead paint test (homeowner kits are available for $10 to $15 online or at paint and hardware stores). Following the new rules will add as much as 10% to 20% to the cost of a contracted paint job. But since many contractors are still unaware of the regulation, costs will vary widely.

Step 2: Wash the exterior
Pigment won't adhere well if you don't wash grime off the house first. A good cleaning agent is water mixed with a phosphate-free cleanser such as Jomax House Cleaner or Green Clean by Sherwin-Williams, which won't harm plantings.

"You want to clean off everything: dust, dirt, and mildew," says Paul Dixon of Bionic Man Painting, in Asheville, N.C. "A lot of people don't, and then wonder why the paint comes off."

Mildew, in particular, thrives under fresh paint. A good wash will kill spores so they don't proliferate. You can hand-apply the solution with a sponge, but that requires a lot of up-and-down on a ladder. Most contractors simply apply solution with a pressure washer.

Step 3: Scrape off loose paint
Once clapboards are dry, remove loose, flaking paint. A handheld scraper is usually the best tool for the job, though you can also use a hot-air gun or infrared paint stripper. Never use an open-flame torch. They can easily cause a fire and are illegal in most states unless you have a permit. To work lead-safe, you must wear a mask and Tyvek suit, spray water on the paint as you scrape, and collect the debris.

Step 4: Sand rough spots
A pad sander or random-orbit sander fitted with 50- to 80-grit sandpaper will smooth out any remaining rough spots, but take care not to push so hard that you leave sander marks in the wood. As with the previous step, sanding lead-safe means working masked, wetting as you go, and using sanders fitted with HEPA filters.

Step 5: Fill and repair
Inspect what you've uncovered and make some decisions. Minor holes or dings in the siding can be easily filled in with a patching putty or compound such as Zinsser's Ready Patch ($20 per gallon). If you've got a major rot problem, summon a carpenter to replace the bad wood.

Step 6: Apply a coat of primer
Apply primer as soon as possible after the previous step. White, gray, or tinted primer provides an even base for topcoats to adhere to, and a uniform canvas from which to survey your work.

"Once you get the primer on, now you can see what's really going on," says Mario Guertin, a contractor with Painting in Partnership, in Palatine, Ill.

Small gaps in joints and around doors, windows, and other spots where horizontals meet verticals will all stand out in high relief, showing you where you need to fill in with caulk.

If you're painting over bare wood or existing latex paint, then latex primer is fine. But if you're painting over multiple coats of oil-based paint, it's best to stick with a new coat of oil-based primer.

Step 7: Caulk all joints
Siliconized or top-of-the line polyurethane acrylic caulks give paint jobs a smooth, pleasing look. But the benefits aren't purely aesthetic. Tight joints also prevent air leaks and block water penetration. It's worth springing for $7-a-tube polyurethane caulks with 55-year warranties, which will stand up to weather better than 35-year caulks costing less than $3. The average house requires about 7 tubes of caulk; contractors buy them in 12-pack cases and use them for several jobs.

Step 8: Choose the right paint
No-brainer here. Painting with water-based acrylic latex is so much easier than dealing with oil-based paints. But choose finishes carefully. As a rule, the higher the sheen, the better the paint is at blocking the sun's damaging rays. Satin is fine for shingles or clapboards, but you'll want gloss paint to protect high-traffic parts of a house, such as window casings, porches, and doorframes. A gallon of premium exterior latex costs $35 to $45.

Step 9: Apply top coat(s)
There is such a thing as too much paint. The more layers, the more likely the paint is to flake off years later. Tread lightly. If you're going from a white house to yellow or cream, you might be able to get by with one coat. Going from a light to a dark house, and vice versa, usually requires two coats.

Step 10: Practice good maintenance
You can extend the life of a good paint job by inspecting the caulk every year, replacing any that's cracked or missing, and doing minimal touch-up-all easy jobs for homeowners to do themselves.
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Joseph D'Agnese is a journalist and book author who has written numerous articles on home improvement. He lives in North Carolina. Reprinted with permission from HouseLogic.

Visalia offers great market for vintage homes

2010-11-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

When it comes to vintage homes currently on the market, Visalia seems to be the place in Tulare County to find the cream of the crop.

Well maintained with nice landscaping and good neighborhoods, they range in age from 1900 to the 1920s.
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To find your perfect vintage home, or any great home in Tulare County, call Ruben Olguin, (559) 280-9384, or Vincent Ingrao, (559) 799-9165, to see the best on the market.

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And don't be fooled by some of their humble exteriors. Inside they feature substantial square footage, lots of amenities and plenty of charm. Here's a look at the top five:

415 W. Race Ave, Visalia, listed at $94,000.

5) 415 W. Race Ave. - This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home was built in 1917. It has 1,864 square feet of living space with brickwork throughout.


700 S. Court St. Visalia, listed at $95,000.

4) 700 S. Court St. - This two-story home has 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms in 1,928 square feet. This home was built 1910.

407 NE 1st Ave, Visalia, listed at $109,900.

3) 407 NE 1st Ave. - This turn-of-the-century single story home features 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms. The home is more than 1,700 square feet and features many of the amenities you would expect from a vintage home, such as a large front porch and wood cabinetry.

707 W. Myrtle Ave., Visalia, listed at $119,000.

2) 707 W. Myrtle Ave. - This 3 bedroom, 1.75 bathroom is well maintained. The 1,552-square-foot home features the original and beautifully maintained hardwood floors.

509 N. Locust St, Visalia, listed at $170,000.

1) 509 N Locust St. - This vintage home features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms inside 1,291 square feet. The home was built in 1901.

Vintage interior design --The perfect nostalgic look for the modern world

2010-10-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Vintage interior design is a really popular look -- and rightly so -- it is a really relaxed, traditional style -- warm and comfortable in feel, and very easy to achieve -- and to live with!

In the loosest sense, a vintage interior design scheme is just a look that is old – traditional, classic styling.

In a stricter sense, ‘vintage’ refers to the 1940’s and 1950’s – an era of hope and new beginnings!

Via Flickr: Tilton Lane

In many ways, the 1940’s and 1950’s were a safer, simpler time – a slower, more relaxed pace of life … you could leave your back door unlocked, while you popped down to the shops! Family and the home were a very important focus to life – and this led to a very comforting and welcoming feel to vintage home decor and interior design.

The vintage era is a period that most people can actually remember – either from their own childhood (or even adult life) or at least from the home of their grandparents. This is a very nostalgic look and feel. It will recreate comforting memories and emotions from childhood – feelings of comfort and safety.

This is an easy, relaxed feel – there are no strict rules to getting your vintage interior design look – only a few simple guidelines to follow:
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To find your perfect vintage home, or any great home in Tulare County, call Ruben Olguin, (559) 280-9384, or Vincent Ingrao, (559) 799-9165, to see the best on the market.

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After the War, people did have to ‘make-do and mend’. They used old furniture, from all different eras – fine antiques and family heirlooms, handed down through the generations, and simpler pieces, that were made over and repaired. So, feel free to mix and match all kinds of traditional furniture pieces in your vintage decorating scheme.

Look out for loads of hand-made goodies too – such as patchwork quilts, made from pretty scraps and fabric remnants.

A vintage interior design style is definitely not an expensive look to try in your home. Scour antique stalls and flea markets for solid, quality items – the slightly worn look will enhance the ‘pre-loved’ charm of the unique pieces.

If you find furniture in different styles and different types of wood, why not try painting all your furniture pieces in white, or a colored paint. Try going for a deliberately distressed look, by applying wax to edges and corners that would wear naturally. Paint over the top, then rub down these areas, and create your own ‘genuine,’ distressed and worn look.

Choose muted and pastel tones for walls and fabric – any color will go, so long as you don’t choose something that is too fresh, modern and bright. Add a little interest with accents of patterned wallpaper, and pretty fabrics for upholstery, slip-covers, throws, cushions and curtains. Look out for pretty, floral designs – particularly those typical 1940’s and 1950’s attractive rose patterns.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and fabrics – and pile on all the pretty layers – slip-covers, throws, patchwork quilts, crochets and lace will all give you that really warm and comforting, nostalgic feel.

Display period accessories and collections on open shelves, or in glass-fronted display cabinets – look out for pretty ornaments, porcelain figurines, and all types of pretty ceramics and pottery.

This is a really good style for anyone who loves knick-knacks and collections – indulge and display your hobby collection – or start one right now…!

I am sure that you will find vintage interior design really comforting and comfortable look – as well as really easy to live with, and really easy to achieve. Don’t worry about any rules, and just include all your favourite bits and pieces and styles – regardless of era…

Create a home and style that is uniquely yours – stamp your personality on your space, and relax into a comforting, safe space – that makes you feel really good!
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About the Author: I decided to study Professional Interior Design to really make my home decorating schemes come alive. Check out my website www.interior-design-it-yourself.com, for interior design tips and techniques, to help you to bring that wow factor into your own home. Article Source: Article Alley

Gorgeous Tudor Revival in Visalia

2010-10-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

5820 W. Harter Ct. Visalia, listed at $349,000

Come tour this beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 3 bath Tudor Revival in Gold Creek in southwest Visalia. It is the perfect home to raise a family.

This 2,665-square-foot home will be open from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23, and 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 24. Don't miss it! The home is at 5820 W. Harter Court. The nearest cross street is Cottonwood.

The kids can do their homework in the breakfast area while mom and dad prepare lunch in the open, upgraded kitchen.

After lunch everyone, family and friends, can enjoy the private backyard patio and sparkling pool. This is family living at its best.

Fresh paint and flooring throughout. There is a built-in entertainment center in the spacious family room with strategically placed speakers inside and out.

Your guests can enjoy a private guest bedroom and bath downstairs while you enjoy the privacy of the upstairs Master suite. Comfort and style from the moment you walk in the front door. Seeing is appreciating.

Stop by, or call Ruben Olguin at (559) 280-9384, or Vincent Ingrao at (559) 799-9165 today!

Experience counts

2010-10-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Experience does count when it comes to buying and selling homes. Like us, you've seen homes that are "for sale by owner" languish on the market for a long time.

Via Flickr: Casey Serin

In 2009, a typical property without professional assistance sold for $172,000 compared with $215,000 for the typical agent-assisted property. Sellers are more likely to generate competitive bids by working with a professional.

Today’s market challenges are prompting more sellers to work with a real estate agent than ever before.

According to the National Association of Realtors® 2009 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, “for-sale-by-owner” transactions dropped to a record low 11 percent. And in almost half of those sales, the owners sold their home to someone they already knew.

Navigating the increasingly complex real estate transaction is much easier when sellers have professional help. The decline in unrepresented sellers indicates a growing awareness of how complicated the current market is.
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To find your perfect vintage home, or any great home in Tulare County, call Ruben Olguin, (559) 280-9384, or Vincent Ingrao, (559) 799-9165, to see the best on the market.

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More than anyone, sellers understand how tough this market has been over the past few years. The drop in for-sale-by-owner transactions illustrates the value consumers place on Realtors® as the first, best source for real estate information and insights – they know that Realtors® can help them reach their real estate goals.

Today’s sellers must compete not only with their fellow homeowners who are selling, but also with the increased inventory of distressed properties offered in short sales or foreclosures. In addition, unrepresented sellers face myriad marketing disadvantages.

The Home Buyer and Seller Profile revealed that more than half of sellers without professional assistance didn’t actively promote their homes to potential buyers. Those that did relied primarily on methods with limited exposure, including yard signs, word-of-mouth and newspaper ads.

Most of today’s buyers are online – nearly 9 out of 10 recent buyers used the Internet in their home search – and unrepresented sellers have no access to major online marketing avenues such as REALTOR.com and other Web sites with large pools of listings to which buyers are attracted. Although there are sites that cater to unrepresented sellers, their total listings are in the tens of thousands in contrast with more than 4 million homes showcased on REALTOR.com.

Real estate agents have specific knowledge of local markets and know what matters to buyers in your area. We sell hundreds, if not thousands, of homes over the course of their careers, compared to the average person who may only move a handful of times during their lifetime. We are proud to say we have the experience homeowners need to sell their home.

Remodeling a vintage kitchen

2010-10-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

By Carrol Wagner - Preservation of old homes is a favorite conversation of owners of vintage homes but rarely do you hear talk about a kitchen restored to its former glory. These beautiful historical homes we have grown to love and appreciate, did not have the kind of kitchens we expect today. Historical kitchens today are antiquated, inefficient and poorly laid out.

Via Flickr: Abbey Hendrickson

In a typical prewar model, kitchens were work areas plain and simple. Everything in the kitchens were freestanding from the huge cast iron stove, the sink on porcelain legs, the icebox and a table that doubled as a workspace.

Those that were modernized in the 1950s, '60s, or '70s often held even less appeal than the ones before. The countertop, flooring, and ceiling materials in them were no match visually as the hardwoods, linoleum's, and metals they replaced. Appliances were disappointing at best with their dismal colors.

Today, we want to capture the flavor of the kitchens we imagine our great-grandparents loved and enjoyed. Homey, warmth and filled with the aroma of good cooking. Fortunately, replicating the mood of a vintage kitchen in an existing space has never been easier. As demand for kitchen accessories with a patina of age has grown, so has the availability of period materials.

Architectural salvage and well-designed reproduction hardware and appliances are relatively easy to locate. Resources for old-fashioned pieces can be found by perusing advertisements in many home design magazines and inquiring at local antiques' shops and architectural salvage companies.

Cabinets, more than any other single element in the design, determine the look and feel of a kitchen. To give a kitchen a historic feeling, designers caution against filling the kitchen with modern built ins. Architectural salvage companies often stock vintage cabinets in wood or metal. These cabinets mix well with freestanding antique or reproduction pieces. An antique dresser or a dry sink adds charm as well as semi-customized items like plate racks and open shelving. Painted wood cabinets may warp when stripped so be advised to try one cabinet door first. Metal cabinets should be stripped, buffed, and lacquered to prevent them from rusting.

Stone counter tops are compatible with old-fashioned kitchens as long as the stone is honed to a soft finish not sleek and modern. Vermont soapstone is one popular choice.

For flooring, designers usually recommend hardwood. Linoleum, maligned for years, is making a comeback. Unused rolls of vintage linoleum from the '20s to the '50s can often be found at salvage companies or at specialty stores.

On the ceiling, pressed metal makes quite a statement, particularly when left in its natural state. As an alternative, try heavy Anaglypta paper, a cream-colored wallpaper embossed in a variety of period patterns. It is less expensive to install than pressed metal and once painted, achieves a much similar effect.

Finding authentic looking stoves and also refrigerators, became easier in the mid 1980s when the country look was blossoming. Our grandparents' stoves have all been refurbished and are easier than ever to find. No matches needed!. Though most old stoves are white, some occasionally turn up in cream, green, or cobalt blue. Hoods are more difficult to find to match your stove since they were not around one hundred years ago. Try buying wood and blending it into the upper cabinetry.

Vintage style hardware is the icing on the cake for the finishing touch on your period look kitchen. Designers suggest antique brass, satin nickel or a blackened finish. The hardware makes the whole kitchen look as if it has been there for years just like the rest of your vintage home.
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Learn about achillea moonshine, alligator pear and other information at the Gardening Central site. Article Source: Article Alley.

Keys to a great custom estate

2010-10-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Lots available in Elderwood for private estates.

One of the appeals of building your dream home away from the hustle and bustle of city life is the opportunity to add your personal style to every element of the home and property.

There's nothing cookie cutter about a private estate. It really is a blank canvass. And if that is what you are looking for, there are many great sites for that dream home of your own.

But building a custom home, especially away from the city presents its own unique set of challenges. Here are some of the things you will want to consider when building a home from scratch:

Location: As with any real estate decision, location is a key factor. Not only will it be a determining consideration of value now, but also well into the future. When building on acreage outside of the city be sure you know what other development may be planned for the future. In our area you will want to know what kind of farm activity is in the vicinity, and if there are plans for change or expansion.

Site improvements: Is the site ready for construction? How much will it cost to prepare it for construction and the other improvements you will need to make it acceptable to you? You will likely want to consult a contractor as part of your buying decision.

Topography: Part of what it will take the make the site construction ready will depend on its topography. But you will also want to consider the topography for other reasons. Depending on the elevation, rain or snow may become a factor in your happiness with the site. Hilltop sites are susceptible to breezes and gusts of wind. Sites on flatland near row crops can also be subject to dusty breezes. Imagine what it will be to live on site through all the seasons.

There are many other considerations we would be happy to walk you through. There are plenty of open sites to choose from, so give us a call. Call Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384, or Vincent Ingrao (559) 799-9165.

Smart buyer in 5 easy steps

2010-09-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Owning a home is a big responsibility. So as you can imagine, there are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to making the decision to buy. Here are some of the questions you will need to answer along the way.

Unique northwest Visalia home listed at $435,000

Rent vs. buy
If you are coming from a rental it makes sense to do a rent versus buy analysis. Taking a look at the cost of upkeep compared to the tax savings is one thing. You also have to consider some of the intangible benefits, such as having a space of your own.

Real Estate professional
Selecting your real estate professional is an important decision. This is the person who will be guiding you through a complex process. You need to know that their experience and expertise will serve your best interests.

Need versus want
Your real estate agent can help you complete a needs analysis that will help narrow down the kind of home would be best for you. By writing down your wants and needs, along with your goals and a timeline will help you focus on the right types of properties for you..

Get pre-approved
Take the guesswork out of what you can and can't afford to buy. By getting pre-approved for a home loan, you will be able to focus on the best home in your price range.

What's on the market
There are hidden gems in every community. Keep an open mind about your house hunt. There's potential around every corner, and your agent will help you find it because he or she is talking with other agents all the time.

For more information and pictures of the home shown above, click here. Call Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384, or Vincent Ingrao (559) 799-9165.

Home Decorating Ideas - Cottage Style Decor Defined

2010-09-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

When you envision the perfect home interior ambiance does it include the adjectives simple, light filled, vintage and comfortable? If so, you might be a candidate for Cottage Style decor! You don't have to reside in a literal cottage to incorporate this design theme into your lifestyle. The fundamentals of cottage style decor are not difficult to implement and can be easy on the budget, too.

Color scheme
The color scheme you select should be light overall for most types of cottage style decorating. A healthy dose of white along with soft shades of green, pink, blue, yellow, aqua and rose will set the cottage tone. If your taste lends more toward a rustic cottage look, you may incorporate more golds and medium shades of green into your decor. Use these colors on your walls, and don't hesitate to vary the colors from room to room. Keep the shades soft and light, and you can transition beautifully from room to room, keeping the cottage theme prevalent.

To add a little bit of drama to the room, use one of your chosen colors in a deep tone for a few accents. For example, if your color scheme includes soft blue, use a bit of navy blue in an area rug, an accent piece, in artwork, etc. Remember to use a light touch and it can make your room even more memorable while maintaining the soft, simple overall look.

Floor plan
The ideal floor treatment for this style of decorating is wood, and if you are into the time-worn look, use wood planking or distressing techniques to make newer wood look old. You can paint the floor, stencil the perimeter, stencil an 'area rug' onto the floor, or use area rugs, to continue the cottage style theme. If wood flooring is not an option, use light colored carpet or tile if possible, and anchor the main pieces with an area rug.

Accessories
Furnishings can be handled in a couple of different ways. If you are looking for a little more elegance in your cottage style decor, you may decide to use new furniture and accessories, keeping the colors and wood tones light. You can use a mix and match of small fabric patterns on upholstery, pillows, table skirts and the like, and still maintain a clean and fresh overall look. The upholstered pieces should be comfortable and informal, with a 'come sit in me' look about them.

For those who really enjoy true vintage, and who may also have a leaner budget, flea markets, antique shops, garage sales, etc. can be great sources for cottage style decor. You may find an awesome antique door and decide to cut it down to use as a coffee table by adding legs to it. An old cabinet or nightstand can be converted into a unique bathroom storage unit. Feel free to paint any piece, using one of the selected shades from your color scheme. Look for vintage prints, fabrics, accessories, and anything that tickles your fancy, no matter what it is.

Cottage style allows for a mix and match of accessories, whether you are showcasing a theme of accessories or all pieces are unique. One caution as you create your cottage style look is to avoid overcrowding and creating a messy, flea market look to your room. Instead, opt for fewer pieces that are truly unique and have a presence of their own. You will be able to appreciate the beautiful wall color, unique floor treatment, furnishings and accessories without being overwhelmed by all of the 'stuff'.

If you need to use your current furniture but want to change the fabric, slipcovers are a great way to do just that with minimal investment. Another budget saving option is to look for well-priced accent pieces and accessories at discount stores such as Homegoods or Target.

Cottage style window treatments are simple and informal. Wood shutters, plantation shutters, and wood blinds are always a good choice for areas that need privacy. If you decide to use fabric for valances or side panels, use an organic fabric such as cotton or a simple weave. Lace works well in this style if you are decorating on the more feminine side.

As you can see, there is not one right or wrong way to decorate Cottage Style. If you keep your selections to light, natural, vintage (real or reproduction), organic materials and colors, you can create your own unique Cottage Style home.

Guest Blog by -- Candi Randolph is the author of Ten Simple Steps to Design Success, a simple and easy to understand guide with home decorating ideas and interior design tips. For more information please visit http://www.MySimplyDesigned.com. Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_902969_27.html

Southeast Visalia home on the market

2010-09-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

Listed at $170,000

There is a fireplace in the living room to warm up those cold days. The living room has beautiful wood laminate flooring.

The kitchen has light oak cabinetry, tile counter tops, a center breakfast bar and a large window.

Pride of ownership is evident throughout this home. You will enjoy the mature landscaping in both the front and back yards.

For more information and pictures, click here.

Call the Vintage Home Guys today for an appointment.
Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384 or Vince Ingrao (559) 799-9165

Vintage styles: Arts and Crafts homes

2010-09-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Arts and Crafts style home

Arts and Crafts homes by definition are meant to be unique and distinctive. Their design was not meant to be cookie cutter. In fact, they were in part a reaction to the industrial revolution and the mass production of goods.

As their name implies, the homes were meant to showcase the craftsmanship of the builder.

Some features common to Arts & Crafts homes are their asymmetrical design and complex floor plan. Some have cantilevered second floors, meaning the second story overhangs the first.

They have steep gabled roofs with large porches. They can have gabled dormers (front facing windows that extend out perpendicular to the roof).

Siding includes wood shingles, but they can also feature brick and stucco.

Arts and Crafts home were particularly popular in California, Texas, and Florida.

A guide to getting rid of clutter in your home

2010-09-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - You're feeling like the walls are closing in. You're not a hoarder, but you just have too much stuff. It's not that difficult to change your ways. If you want to take control of clutter, get a few boxes, one for each room in your home. Start by organizing one room at a time.

Begin this initiative by removing everything on top of your cabinets, tables and in bookcases and place it all in a box, says Keith McCleary, academic director of Interior Design at The Art Institute of York - Pennsylvania. If there are other random accessories in the room, remove them as well. Keep just the basic furnishings. Now sit with the room in its simplest form for awhile.

"In room design, make good decisions about what you choose to put in the room and, often more importantly, in what you choose to leave out," McCleary says. "Simplicity and clean lines make a room feel livable and that's what it's really all about: comfortable living." Think about the kind of focal point you're trying to create. How should you orchestrate this space and show off your special pieces in terms of size, scale, color and texture?

After a day or two has passed, go back to the box and look for items that define your personality, or will be noticed by guests visiting your home. "Ask yourself: when is enough, enough?" says McCleary. "Each piece of furniture in the room can function to complement. Accessories and works of art should contrast."

When you look at your well-designed room, you should see positive elements, as well as appreciate negative space by removing unnecessary pieces that don't add to the design composition.

Interior design students at The Art Institute of York - Pennsylvania are taught to help their clients step back and ask themselves: Is it finished now? You can err when you go shopping and purchase nice pieces for your home, because before long you begin to accumulate too many of those nice things. Much of what you have is stuff you don't need or want. It might be time to share those boxes, which are full of stuff you haven't missed in years, with your local Goodwill.

Sometimes, you might think you have to keep memorabilia or outdated gifts from Aunt Ethel in your home all the time. "Not so," says McCleary. "It's perfectly acceptable to remove those items when you do your box exercise." If you get a call from auntie who's planning a visit, head to the attic and put those old Beanie Babies she gave you when you were a fanatical collector decades ago on a shelf in your den, temporarily. She'll be happy for the gesture. When she leaves, feel free to replace them in the box of memories until her next visit.

After you complete this exercise in each room in your home, you'll notice that the clutter has disappeared. Now you can recognize how attractive the remaining items are in that same space. This initiative takes determination and focus, but when you've completed the exercise, your focus can be on the lovely space you've recreated. To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz. Courtesy of ARAcontent

Homebuyers happy despite housing ups and downs

2010-09-06T14:46:00.000-07:00

With the rollercoaster ride homeowners have taken in recent years - gaining great equity, then losing it, now slowly gaining it back - you might think they are a little sour on home ownership.

But a new poll by Bankrate, Inc., found that 90 percent of homeowners say they don't regret buying their current home.

In fact, the pollsters found that homeowners are much more informed about the mortgage process. Today, only 8 percent said they didn't know what kind of loan they had. That's far better than two years ago when as many as 28 percent said they didn't know.

The poll - conducted by Princeton Survey Research Associates International for Bankrate - also found that:

Vintage home converted to office in Porterville

Fixed-rate mortgages are on the upswing. Seventy-nine percent of those polled said they had a fixed-rate loan.
Americans making more than $75,000 overwhelmingly preferred fixed-rate mortgages. Almost 90 percent of those who were asked, said they used a fixed-rate mortgage.

You can find happiness to with one of the great deals on the market. Call Ruben Olguin (559) 280-9384, or Vincent Ingrao (559) 799-9165 of the Vintage Home Guys today for an appoinment.

Antique stained glass in today's Vintage Home

2010-08-31T22:27:00.000-07:00

Vintage homes require appropriate decorations in order to maintain historical accuracy as well as enhance the beauty of the structure. Many types of period homes can be embellished with the artful use of antique stain glass. These stunning pieces can be used as windows, skylights and panels throughout the vintage home.

Stained glass adds style to a vintage home

Leaded glass and antique stain glass are traditionally used as windows in the home. Sometimes there are windows in vintage homes that have ornate woodwork detailing, and using curtains indoors can create a too-modern feel to the historic details surrounding the windows. In this instance, homeowners sometimes choose to add an antique leaded stained glass window to the area. In this way, the view is obscured for privacy, yet the light is allowed into the room, and the brilliant colors of the glass shine in all their glory. These antique stain glass pieces may encompass the full window or perhaps only the top portion of a clear window, but they add a unique and colorful accent to an already attractive exposure.

For more information on VINTAGE HOMES in Visalia and throughout Tulare County, call Ruben Olguin (559-280-9384) or Vince Ingrao (559-799-9165) - The Vintage Home Guys - for an appointment today.

Another excellent application of antique stained glass in the period home is through the use of skylights. By using leaded glass in a skylight, the natural light can easily shine through the artwork, setting it off to full advantage. Skylights made of antique stained glass panels can also be used as accents on the home. Round or oval-shaped antique leaded stained glass skylights help to break up the many straight lines in the facade of the vintage home, offering additional interest and a focal point.

Antique stained glass is also used as panels in historic homes. Antique stained glass panels can be used in a variety of different ways to draw attention to certain key areas of the home. The entry door is one place where antique stained glass panels can be put to good use. Panels can run along either side of the door, or along the top of the door. They may also be inserted into the door for added appeal. Many homes have a front entry that is connected to a hallway leading to the central portion of the home, and these hallways are often dark and difficult to light with natural light. This is why many homeowners choose doors with glass inserts, in order to bring more light to the entry area. Panels can also be used in interior areas that are well-lit as well.

Antique stain glass merchants can offer you a broad selection of beautiful pieces that will bring a unique look to your historic vintage home. By Wayne Hemrick Article Source: Article Alley

Well-appointed Mediterranean-style home

2010-08-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

Take a look at this beautiful, custom Mediterranean-style home sitting on a completely landscaped acre.

Listed at $435,000

There is a fabulous kitchen with a built in Sub-Zero refrigerator with a gourmet 5-burner range, an enormous granite breakfast bar that leads into an opulent great room.

This home features its own screen room, 2 offices, and a loft/bedroom.

There is an oversized 3-car garage, extensive concrete work, 2 tankless hot water heaters and 2 A/C units. This is truly a unique home and a must see for any home buyer. See more pictures at Vintage Home Guys.

Call Ruben Olguin for an appointment today - (559) 280-9384.

Vintage homes

2010-08-20T23:15:00.001-07:00

Visalia vintage home

Vintage homes - some of them wonderfully cared for over the decades - are what help contribute to Visalia and many of the other Tulare County communities’ rich architectural history.

Most people don’t know how to identify the different styles by sight. They simply refer to them as “that beautiful old home” tucked away on some shady, quiet lane. They are homes that have an appeal all their own.

We are the area’s only vintage home real estate team. That’s why we call ourselves the Vintage Home Guys. We specialize in helping people buy and sell these treasures because we have a deep appreciation for the era they represent, as well as the enduring beauty and value they still hold today.

Are you looking for a bungalow, or maybe a cottage? Are you looking for something truly unique, like a Queen Anne, or maybe an eclectic home? If you are in the market for a vintage home, it will help to know what styles appeal to you, what they are called, and the architectural features that make them unique.

So, how many vintage home styles are there? There are about 20 significant styles, each with their variations. They range from the large Arts & Crafts homes of the 1880s-1920s and the Craftsman-style bungalows of the 1900s that are prevalent in Visalia, to the Tudor revival homes with arched doorways and the open floor plan ranch homes.

Over the coming days we’ll talk about the different styles, including their exterior look, floor plans, and some of the things you will need to know to keep that home in great shape.

Along the way, we’ll also offer good advice about buying, selling, and financing a home, as well as useful tips for creating great curb appeal.