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better living TALLAHASSEE
GUIDE
2016 North Florida Home Show Edition w w w.Ta l l yBA . co m
TBA SPIRE Sponsors:
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a Natur tura all G Ga ass Fo F or ! e f i L
891.5112 or Ta algov.ccom Like us on Facebook at GetGasTa ally
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TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
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(850)576-JETT
WWW.JETTBUILDERS.COM 5285 Tower Rd., C-5 Tallahassee, FL 32303
JETT BUILDERS INC.
Custom Homes s Additions s Remodeling
CALL TODAY FOR ESTIMATES!
We’re available and ready to discuss your project or just talk ideas. Give us a call or simply fill out the contact form online at www.JettBuilders.com
At Jett Builders, no job is too small. Florida State Certified Building Contractor
License #CBC1259998
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WELCOmE
...to the North Florida Home Show
n behalf of the Tallahassee Builders Association (TBA) and its education/special events, we welcome you to this year’s North Florida Home Show.
The show is a great opportunity for people in the Tallahassee area to learn about new homes and communities, exciting remodeling possibilities, and all the latest products and services that can enrich the livability or functionality of a home.
Over 100 companies – many of them members of TBA – will be exhibiting in the event presented by East Coast Shows, Inc. and co-sponsored by TBA.
Larry Wayne Strickland CIP, CAPS Capital City Builders President
This year, TBA is pleased to provide you with this free Tallahassee Better Living Guide.
In addition to our TBA information booth, where show visitors can pose questions to builders, suppliers, and trades professionals, the guide will serves as a source of valuable contacts and information long after the show itself is over. Enjoy the show!
Senior Officers and Directors
Stan Derzypolski CIP, CAPS 3 Rivers, Inc. Program Chairman
President: Larry Wayne Strickland, CIP, CAPS (Capital City Builders) First Vice President: Bill Kimberl, CIP, CAPS (Kimberl Construction)
Second Vice President: Matt Gilbert (James D A Holley & Company) Treasurer: Thomas Asbury Jr. (Premier Fine Homes)
Secretary: Doug Barton, CIP, CAPS (Barton Construction)
Third Vice President: Mike Roberts (Roberts Sand Company)
Immediate Past Presiden: Alan Weekely, CIP, CAPS (Alan Weekley Homes)
Immediate Past Second Vice President: Vicki O’Neil (City of Tallahassee Natural Gas)
Builder Directors: Brandon Jett, CIP; Jane Conn; Joseph Adams; H.R. “Sonny” Phillips, CIP, CAPS; Mark Trudeau, CIP, CAPS
Ex-Officio Builder Directors: Stan Derzypolski, CIP, CAPS; Mark Worley, CIP, CAPS, CGP, GMB; Tom Asbury; Tom Vieth, CIP, CAPS Associate Directors: Will Davis (Centennial Bank); Ann DeVeer (Capital City Design Center); Bobby Dollar (Appliance Consultants); Susan Grabowski (Tallahassee Kitchen Center); Jackie Johnson (Homes & Land®); Deborah McClellan (Hancock Bank); Phillip Pomeroy (Prime Meridian Bank);
TBA SPIRE Sponsors:
Ex-Officio Associate Directors: Ed Dion; Drexal Harris; Lynn Wollschlager; Karen Koelemji Executive Officer: Lynne Edwards Executive Assistant: Erin Waizani
P.O. Box 1212 u Tallahassee, FL 32302-1212 u Phone: 850-385-1414 u www.tallyba.com Physical Address: 2600 Centennial Place u Tallahassee, FL 32308
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
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2016 SENIOR OFFICERS
Larry Wayne Strickland, CIP, CAPS President
Bill Kimberl, IV, CIP, CAPS
Matt Gilbert, CPA
Thomas Asbury, Jr.
Doug Barton, CIP, CAPS
Mike Roberts
Alan Weekley, CIP, CAPS
Vicki O’Neil
Lynne Edwards
First Vice President
Third Vice President
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TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
Second Vice President
Immediate Past President
Treasurer
Immediate Past Second Vice President
Secretary
Executive Officer
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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Committed to the future of our industry... together we will accomplish great things in 2016. Larry Wayne Strickland 2016 TBA PRESIDENT
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
TALLAHASSEE
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View a Digital Magazine Online http://goo.gl/VLUxIw
Table of Contents PAGE 6 7 10 12 14 16 17 18 20 22 24
better living TALLAHASSEE
GUIDE
TBA 2016 Senior Officers TBA Presidents Letter Mulch Ado - Landscaping Natural Gas Bringing the Heat! Remodel or Relocate TBA Exhibitors in the North Florida Home Show TBA Exhibitors and Exhibition Map Home Financing 101 Bobby Dollar Give A-Way Top 5 Tips for Hiring a Builder or Remodeler Be Counter Intuitive - Kitchen Makeovers
Advertisers Index PAGE 27 31 9 22 25 29 4, 23 15 2 29 27 30 29 3 25 27 8, 14, 19 26 11 26 28 27 28 32 13 27
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TALLAHASSEE
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ADVERTISER 3 Rivers, Inc. Acme Brick, Tile, & Stone Barton Construction Inc. Bobby Dollar’s Appliance Consultants Boykin Builders Cabinetry Design Studio Capital City Builders, Inc. Carpenter Construction Co. City of Tallahassee / Natural Gas Utility Farm Credit First Story Real Estate Company Guardian Home Inspections & Repairs Inc. H & P Hearth & Patio Jett Builders, Inc. Jim Bennett’s Plumbing Joan H. Raley, Realtor® Prime Meridian Bank Prime South Properties, Fezler, Russell, and Ferrie, Inc. Roberts Sand Company, LLP Tallahassee Board of Realtors® The Carpet Studio Thomas Acquisition & Property Specialist, Inc. Triple J Supply University Lending Group Worley Construction, Inc. Yvonne Howell, Realtor®, Coldwell Banker Hartung & Noblin, Inc. TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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Handcrafted Relationships
TBA 2014 Builder of the Year 2015 Best of Houzz 2012 Parade of Homes Best in Show 2014 Parade of Homes Gold 2013 Parade of Homes Silver 2006 Parade of Homes Silver Cert. Industry Professional (CIP) Cert. Aging-in-Place Spec. (CAPS) B.S. from Auburn University in Building Construction
www.Barton-Construction.com http://www.houzz.com/pro/dougbarton/barton-construction CGC061174
Phone: 850-668-4265 TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
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Yard & Garden
Landscaping and gardening
ado
MULCH
Tips on getting the most from this multitasking material By Homes & Land Staff
M
ulch can make a landscaping homeowner’s life much easier, but that’s not to say that using the stuff involves no work at all. You’ve got to pick the right mulch for your place and purpose, prepare the area, properly place the material and, over time, maintain it. In return, mulch will help control weeds, define the landscape and improve its appearance, retain moisture, moderate soil temperatures, and reduce erosion.
That little bit of labor pays off, so to speak, in spades.
✸ Spread mulch 2 to 3 inches thick, landscape
Here are some tips on using these landscape workhorses, especially conventional organic materials such as wood chips and pine bark:
experts suggest. Keep in mind that a material applied at 4 inches may settle to 3. And there can be too much of a good thing, as the University of California’s Marin Master Gardeners note. Mulch piled too deep can restrict the flow of air and water to the soil below, producing “mulch toxicity” and plants that fail to thrive.
✸ To figure out how much you’ll need, measure the dimensions of the space to be covered and multiply the length by the width to get the square footage. The industry standard for mulch use is 1 cubic yard for every 100 square feet of area, assuming you’re going to apply it at a depth of 3 inches. ✸ Mulch won’t cover all sins. Before the stuff goes down, clear weeds and loosen the soil so that a hard, water-repelling crust won’t form.
✸ Don’t pile material directly against plant stems or tree trunks. Mulch that comes into direct contact with plants or trees can retain water, cause rot and foster the diseases and fungus. ✸ Make a date to come back later. Mulch should be replaced or refreshed at regular intervals.
Quick tip
Have a ‘doughnut’ Don’t make a “mulch volcano” when spreading material around tree trunks. Instead, make a “mulch doughnut” and keep mulch 6 to 12 inches from the base of the tree. That way, the ground above feeder rootlets will be sheltered without endangering the body of the tree itself.
The dirt on mulch
E
verybody knows mulch: It’s the bagged red or brown wood bits at the garden center. It’s also any number of other organic and inorganic materials used to cover bare ground. Common organics include yard trimmings, hay, pine straw, pine bark, sawdust and cocoa hulls. These enrich the soil as they break down. Frequently used nonorganic materials include gravel or crushed rock, plastic, landscape fabric and shredded rubber from old tires. While an inorganic won’t benefit the soil like organic mulch, it will last longer and can provide sharper definition in the landscape.
Homes & Land better living GUIDE TALLAHASSEE 10
Cautions worth noting on mulches in general and specific: ✦ Low-nitrogen materials such as wood chips can cause nitrogen depletion of the soil as they decompose. If your plants start to sport yellow leaves, fertilize with a high-nitrogen soil amendment. ✦ Mulches’ ability to keep soil cool can have the downside of retarding growth after winter. In spring, pull mulch back from plants so the soil can warm up. ✦ In wet climates, be aware that mulch can harbor slugs and other pests that like to chew on tender plants.
HomesAndLand.com TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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Working smart
Down the garden path By Kati Schardl
keep weeds from growing up in the path and stones (if that’s your material of choice) from sinking into the soil. You can also use plastic, but it will retain water and could make for swampy walking in low-lying areas or places that get lots of rainfall.
M
ulch doesn’t have to be stuck in a garden bed. Freed to wander the landscape, it can be used to create attractive pathways. START BY EYEBALLING THE PLACE you want your path to go and sketching it on paper, especially if you want it to wind through the landscape in soft curves. You can use spray paint to mark the boundaries of the path, or you can use stakes and string to create the margins. REMOVE ANY SOD to a depth that will allow you to lay down a thick layer of material for your path. Level the soil with a rake and tamp down the dirt. Set edging — plastic landscape edging is inexpensive and easy to use, brick or stone looks more elegant but can be expensive if you’re making a long path — on the sides of the path to keep the mulch from seeping into the surrounding landscape. COVER THE DIRT with landscape fabric to
IF YOU’RE USING GRAVEL, you’ll probably want to have it delivered if the path will be sizeable. Think about the walking surface and how comfortable you want it to be. Some organic mulches, such as wood chips, can become waterlogged and make footing precarious. Larger rock chunks may look nice but can be ankle-turners. ONCE YOU HAVE THE PATH material in place, rake it to make it level. For a more solid pathway, use a tamper to pack it. DOWN THE ROAD, organic mulch eventually will decompose and need to be replaced. While rock, crushed stone, pea gravel and other inorganic materials won’t decompose, they can be dispersed by foot traffic and will need to be replenished occasionally.
www.RobertsSand.com
Supplier of
Pine Straw
Sands, Soils, & Rock Products
Top Soil
Gravel
Mulches
Serving North Florida and South Georgia for over 50 years! Sales@RobertsSand.com TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
850-576-1414
TALLAHASSEE
Rock 1712 Silver Lake Road Tallahassee, FL 32310 Sales & Dispatch Monday – Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm
H living GUIDE better
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Natural Gas bringing the heat!
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H
If your electric water heater is 10 years old or older, think about upgrading to natural gas before your unit fails and you are left without hot water.
Information courtesy City of Tallahassee Natural Gas Utility
ot water is always in style, and noth-
less will provide greater efficiency and
ing heats water like natural gas.
greater savings, while adding value to
Whether for showers, washing dishes
your home.
or doing laundry, hot water is often
twice the longevity of an electric unit,
taken for granted – until it’s not avail-
offering 20 years of hot water or more.
able. Most of us only think about our
The tankless water heater is triggered by
water heater when the hot water runs out
the flow of water, so when you turn on a
or our water heater breaks down. Then
faucet, the water is heated as it passes
we’re desperate to find something and
through the unit, giving you on-demand
get it installed fast. Many times cus-
hot water with very little consumed ener-
tomers settle for the quick fix instead of
gy. Tankless water heaters are about the
finding the right water heater that meets
size of a medicine cabinet, so they pro-
their budget, space requirements, hot
vide space savings as well as energy sav-
water needs and uses the least amount of
ings. An added bonus is that tankless
energy possible.
water heaters can be installed inside or
Now is a great time to review your hot water needs and available models, particularly if you are considering remodeling your kitchen, bath or laundry or adding new water intensive appliances. If that’s not the case, you should start thinking about upgrading from an electric water heater if it is more than 10 years old – before your unit fails and you’re left with-
Tank or Tankless?
out hot water and in a bind.
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TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
Plus, tankless units have
The Natural Gas Benefit
outside of the home.
If consumers decide to purchase a water
heater, either tank or tankless, a natural gas water heater is the best bet when gas is available in your neighborhood. Here’s why: Faster recovery
Gas heats water more
quickly than electricity which means the storage tank can be smaller and the hot water recovers more quickly. Lower operating cost
Heating your water
The standard storage-type (or tank)
with natural gas is considerably less
water heater keeps water hot all-day-
expensive than electricity. When you consider
every-day, while a tankless water heater
that up to to 25%-30% of the average utility bill
does just the opposite by only providing
can be generated by water heating, natural gas
heated water as you use it. While a tank-
makes sense. The average family of four in
style gas water heater is slightly lower in
Tallahassee can save up to $300 a year on their
initial cost, over the long term the tank-
water heating bill with a tankless water heater.
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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tallahassee
prefers tankless!
Tallahassee customers are energy-conscious and definitely prefer natural gas for their water heating needs, as well as for cooking and space heating. Growing numbers of customers are switching to natural gas and adding a tankless water heater to their home. With the City of Tallahassee offering a $675 rebate on water heaters, the attraction is even greater. Almost 55% of natural gas water heaters installed in the Tallahassee area are tankless. IF YOU HAVE NATURAL GAS AVAILABLE OR ARE CURRENTLY USING NATURAL GAS:
REGISTER TO WIN A RINNAI TANKLESS WATER HEATER
AND FREE INSTALLATION COMPLIMENTS OF JIM BENNETS PLUMBING
Call for monthly remodelinG speCial
Find out More
Stop by our booth at the North Florida Home Show and ask the experts about tankless water heating. Bring us your toughest questions!
Get natural Gas today – and let us brinG you the heat!
Miss us at the Home Show? Give us a call at 891-5112 to find out more about natural gas and how you can make your home more energy efficient, or visit Talgov.com or our Facebook page at GetGasTally.
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REMODEL or RELOCATE
8 CRITICAL QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
Home buying and home remodeling television programs aren’t just a fad; their enduring popularity indicates that they’re here to stay. If you’re among the growing masses of dedicated viewers, you might begin (if you haven’t already) to look around and notice some of your own home’s shortcomings. Inadequate storage, limited cooking space or simply an outdated design might conjure thoughts of one day remodeling your kitchen, bathrooms or living spaces. Or instead, perhaps you’ll begin to consider moving into a bigger or newer home. Whether you decide to remodel or relocate, your decision will involve a great deal of logistics, emotions and, of course, finances. Thoroughly weighing the pros and cons of each option now will help you feel more prepared to act when the time is right.
What’s in the budget?
The first step is the most obvious: you’ll need to crunch some numbers to determine what is financially feasible. Remodeling can be a great investment and save you the hassle of moving. But it requires a great deal of patience and flexibility. On the other hand, buying a home can be instantly gratifying, but the true costs of buying (and selling) – such as commissions, closing costs and moving fees – need to be part of the equation, as that is money you won’t get back.
Is it a simple fix that you can do yourself?
Or a bigger project that will require a professional? Some home owners are especially handy and want to tackle the job themselves. But most others like having the assurance of knowing a professional – who has the necessary equipment, expertise and resources – will get the job done right the first time.
What is the current value...
of your home compared to similar homes in your neighborhood? If your home is already the most expensive one in the neighborhood, youmight not see a significant return on your investment if you remodel. But if comparable home values are greater than your home’s value, you’re much more likely to see a strong return by making improvements.
How might your decision impact your taxes?
Remodeling your current home or moving to a new home will have an effect on your property taxes. The change may or may not be significant, so it’s good to keep it in mind.
How might your needs change...
in the next 3, 5 or 10 years? A growing family, kids going off to college, an aging family mem-
ber moving in – all are examples of factors that can significantly impact your future requirements for a home.
Is the layout of your current home conducive to a remodel?
All other considerations aside, if you have limited options to alter your home in a way that will address your needs (such as loadbearing walls that can’t be removed, or space constraints that will not allow for an addition), you may need to consider moving.
Are there any zoning restrictions...
that would affect the remodeling project(s) you envision? These laws vary widely by area, so go to your local zoning office and ask for a copy of your local ordinance.
How do you feel about your current neighborhood?
Even if you changed everything about your home, there are many things outside of your home over which you have no control. Give some thought to the school district, proximity to work, parks and shopping centers, and the overall look and feel of the community. The answers to these questions are different for everyone, which is why it is important for you to carefully consider each one while keeping in mind your unique situation. This will help you effectively determine which step is right for you so that next year, you can be confident in your home’s ability to not only survive the holidays, but to also keep up with the demands of your everyday life. For additional resources on remodeling your home or buying a new home, contact the Tallahassee Builders Association at 850.85.1414 or visit:
tallyba.com
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28 YEARS - AWARD WINNING REMODELING AND DESIGN
CBC 057502
(850) 878-0010
Kitchens & Bathrooms u Additions u
Aurora Award Winner 2013 u
Kip@kipcarpenter.com
Senior Safety/Access Complex Custom Projects 12 Remodeler Showcase Awards
e
e e s
m H o T C
w w w. K i p C a r p e n t e r. c o m
O O B
t a s
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TBA Exhibitors by Alpha
TBA Member Company
Booth #
3 Rivers, Inc.
Phone
Website
171
(850) 570-4767
Accessibility Solutions
52, 53
(850) 383-1100
ADT Security Systems
130, 131
(850) 544-4155
www.adt.com
Alpha Foundation Specialists
68, 69
(850) 877-1313
www.alphafoundations.com
Associated Services
70, 71
(850) 681-3148
www.associatedsvs.com
B & T Fencing, Inc.
www.3river.com
64
(850) 942-1003
www.ba-fencing.com
167, 168, 169
(229) 228-5112
www.bobbydollar.com
Boykin Builders
157A
(850) 544-2629
www.boykinhomes.com
Brian Barnards Flooring America
65, 66
(850) 386-8689
www.flooringamericatally.com
Bobby Dollar’s Appliance Consultants
Budget Blinds of Tallahassee
1
(850) 668-4835
www.budgetblinds.com/tallahassee
164, 165, 166
(850) 893-6228
www.capitalcitybuilders.net
Carpet Studio, Inc.
11, 11A
(850) 656-2666
www.carpetstudio.net
City of Tallahassee / Natural Gas Utility
142, 146
(850) 891-5569
www.talgov.com/you
Earl Bacon Agency, Inc.
123
(850) 878-2121
www.earlbacon.com
Florida Pest Control & Chemical Company
17
(850) 222-6853
www.flapest.com
Guardian Home Inspections & Repairs, Inc.
22, 23, 24
(850) 297-1998
www.guardianinspects.com
Hearth & Patio Sales & Service
190, 191
(850) 727-4282
www.hearthpatiotallahassee.com
Hi-Tech Systems Associates, Inc.
87
(850) 385-7649
www.hi-techflorida.com
Jay Walker Enterprises, Inc.
86
(850) 562-4692
www.jaywalkerenterprises.com
Jett Builders, Inc.
152
(850) 576-5388
www.jettbuilders.com
141, 141A
(850) 878-3178
www.plumbertallahasseeflorida.com
126
(850) 765-0558
www.kitchentuneup.com
Multistone Enterprises / Talquin Fabrications
88, 176
(850) 576-9898
www.multistonesav.com
NRG Industries, Inc.
187, 188
(850) 224-7433
www.nrgindustries.com
Power On, LLC
122
(850) 422-2232
www.poweronusa.com
Roberts Sand Company, LLP
6, 7
(850) 576-3610
www.robertssand.com
Streamline Roofing & Construction, Inc.
104, 105
(850) 575-1168
www.streamlineroofing.com
Sunshine Savings Bank
183, 184
(850) 545-5533
www.sunshinesavingsbank.com
Superior Granite & Cabinetry
2
(850) 459-1899
www.superiorgraniteandcabinetry.com
Tallahassee Builders Association
G
(850) 385-1414
www.tallyba.com
Capital City Builders, Inc.
Jim Bennetts Plumbing Kitchen Tune-Up
Tallahassee Democrat/Tallahassee Media Group
110, 111
(850) 599-2262
www.tallahassee.com
140, 158, 159
(850) 562-8366
www.tallahasseeroofinginc.com
80, 81
(800) 273-1521
www.triplejsupply.com
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
8
(850) 241-2971
www.wellsfargo.com
Worley Construction, Inc.
44
(850) 668-3438
www.worleyconst.com
Tallahassee Roofing, Inc. Triple J Supply
Exhibition Information EXHIBITION DATES & TIMES: Friday, February 12 .............. Noon - 7 pm Saturday, February 13 .......10 am - 7 pm Sunday, February 14 ..........10 am - 5 pm
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EXHIBITION LOCATION: Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center 505 W. Pensacola St.,Tallahasse, FL
CONTACT US: Tallahassee Builders Association P.O. Box 1212 u Tallahassee, FL 32302-1212 Physical Address: 2600 Centennial Place u Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-385-1414 u lynne.Edwards@tallyba.com www.TallyBA.com TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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EE
179 180 181 182 183 184
185 186 187 188
189 190 191 192 193 EE
24 23
169 168
159 140
135 116
111 96
91
76
71
52
47
28
22
167
158 141
134 117
110 97
90
77
70
53
46
29
21
166
157A 141A
133 118
109 98
89
78
69
54
45A 29A
20
165
157 142
132 119
170 171
172 173
68
55
45
30
19
164
156 143
44
31
18 17
155 144
131 120
174 175
176 177
67
56
43
32
163
154 145
130 121
108 99
88
79
66
57
42
33
162
153 146
129 122
107 100
87
80
65
58
41A 34A
15
162A
152 147
128 123
106 101
86
81
64
59
40
35
14
151 148
127 124
105 102
85
82
63
60
39
36
13
150 149
126 125
104 103
84
83
62
61
38
37
12
3
4
6
7
9
10
Area C Area B
11 Area A Concessions
R
1A
S
E
Denotes TBA Member
J
2
Banks / Financial Institutions Sunshine Savings Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .183, 184 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Blinds / Window Coverings Budget Blinds of Tallahassee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Builders / Developers / Remodelers 3 Rivers, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171 Accessibility Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52, 53 Boykin Builders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157A Capital City Builders, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .164, 165, 166 Jett Builders, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152 Worley Construction Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Cabinetry Kitchen Tune-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126 Cleaning Services Jay Walker Enterprises, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 Countertops Superior Granite & Cabinety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Energy Efficiency City of Tallahassee / Natural Gas Utility . . . . . .142, 146 Fences / Gates B&T Fencing, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
8
Exhibition Map
H
Donald L. Tucker Civic Center Tallahassee, FL
TBA Exhibitors by Category Appliances Bobby Dollar’s Appliance Consultants . . .167, 168, 169
5
G
F ENTER 0
1
Fireplaces - Indoor & Outdoor Hearth & Patio Sales and Services . . . . . . . . . .190, 191 Jay Walker Enterprises, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 Flooring Brian Barnard’s Flooring America . . . . . . . . . . . . .65, 66 Carpet Studio, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11, 11A
11A
Marketing / Public Relations Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Media Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110, 111 Mold Inspections / Water Damage Guardian Home Inspections & Repairs, Inc. . . .22, 23, 24 Pest Control Florida Pest Control & Chemical Company . . . . . . . . . .17
Foundation Repairs / Crawl Space Repairs Alpha Foundation Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68, 69
Plumbing Fixtures Jim Bennett Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141, 141A Triple J Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80, 81
Gas & Propane Services City of Tallahassee / Natural Gas Utility . . . . . . .142, 146
Rock, Soil, Mulch Roberts Sand Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6, 7
Generators Power On, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .122
Roofing Streamline Roofing & Construction, Inc. . . . . . .104, 105 Tallahassee Roofing, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .140, 158, 159
Green Cleaning Supplies Associated Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70, 71 Home Inspections Guardian Home Inspections & Repairs, Inc. . . .22, 23, 24
Screen Rooms NRG Industries, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187, 188
Insurance Earl Bacon Agency, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123
Security ADT Security Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130, 131 Hi-Tech System Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Kitchen / Bath Jim Bennett Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141, 141A Kitchen Tune-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126
Tile / Stone Multistone Enterprises / Talquin Fabrications . . . .88, 176 Superior Granite & Cabinety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Lighting & Controls Hi-Tech System Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Trade Association Tallahassee Builders Association . . . . . . .G - Lobby Area
TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
17
HOME financing 101
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Provided by Tallahassee Builders Association
for
first-time
As our housing and job markets continue to recover, many first-time home
buyers are gearing up to become home owners. Yet, with stricter regulations put in place after the housing crash and the long list of paperwork that’s
already required to buy a home, many prospective home buyers remain concerned about the home financing process. Advance preparation is key when getting ready to buy a home. You need to decide how much to spend on your home and which type of mortgage will work best for you, as well as understand the settlement process.
Before you visit a sales office, model home or open house, you should take advantage of the many sources that can help you get prepared, and take some steps to ensure you’re in the best possible financial situation.
Be Realistic About What You Can Afford
Figure out what you can comfortably pay on a monthly basis. Write down all your monthly expenses including loan payments, utilities, insurance, credit cards and don’t forget food, clothing and entertainment expenditures. When determining the monthly payment you can afford, remember that in addition to the monthly principal and interest, you will also be paying into escrows for property taxes, hazard insurance and possibly mortgage insurance or a home owners or condominium association assessment. Many real estate-focused websites have mortgage calculators that are a great way to figure out what your monthly payments would be based on current interest rates and down payment amounts.
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TALLAHASSEE
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TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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Home Buyers Pay Down Your Debts
Debt that you carry on your credit cards will limit the amount of a loan a lender will be willing to give you. Lenders typically want to see a total debt service ratio that is less than 40 percent of your monthly income.
Get Objective Advice
Debt that you carry on your credit cards will limit the amount of a loan a lender will be willing to give you. Pre-approval also enables you to
Attend a first-time home buying sem-
quickly make an offer when you find a
inar or talk to a credit counselor who
home, and is attractive to sellers who
does not work for a lender. The U.S.
are considering multiple offers. A
Department of Housing and Urban
lender’s pre-approval would still be
Development (HUD) offers free hous-
subject to a final verification of your
ing counseling and seminars; visit
credit and a satisfactory appraisal.
www.hud.gov or call HUD's interactive voice system at: (800) 569-4287
Qualifying for a mortgage and saving
for more information.
up for a downpayment remain pri-
Pre-Qualify for Your Home Mortgage
To ensure that the financing process goes smoothly, buyers should consider pre-qualifying for a mortgage and
mary obstacles to homeownership. Recently Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac attempted to address this issue by announcing new low-downpayment mortgage programs geared primarily toward the first-time home buyer market.
having a financing commitment in place before shopping for a new
These lenders will now offer mort-
home. Buyers also may find that some
gages with 3% downpayments, allow-
home builders have arranged favor-
ing more creditworthy borrowers who
able financing for their customers or
lack the funds for a large downpay-
offer financial incentives.
ment to obtain a home mortgage.
After taking these steps to get your financing in order, finding your first home will be a much more enjoyable experience. For more information to help ease the first-time home-buying stress, Contact:
Tallahassee Builders Association at 850.385.1414.
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
19
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REGISTER TO WIN!
Tallahassee Builders Association The General Electric Appliance Company
Register to WIN this GE four piece kitchen package
Valued at Over $2,800
GE® 25.4 Cu. Ft. Side-By-Side Refrigerator Model#: GSS25GSHSS
GE® 30" Free-Standing Electric Range Model#: JBS60RFSS
GE® 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Model#: JVM3160RFSS
GE® Dishwasher with Front Controls Model#: GDF510PSJSS
Drawing will be held Sunday, February 14th at 4:00pm (You do not have to be present to win) Must be 21 years of age to register, only one registration per person.
20
Visit Booth 167-169 for Details
TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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FREE Dishwasher with qualifying purchase
5
TOP TIPS for Hiring a
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A
BUILDER OR REMODELER
re you among the growing number of
home owners who are choosing to remodel their homes to fit their changing needs, rather than selling their home and buying another one? If so, you’ll soon learn that even simple remodels can
cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. With that type of investment on the line, it’s important to find a contractor you can trust.
As the home building and remodeling industry celebrates National Home Remodeling Month in May, here are the top five tips to ensure you make the right decisions when you find, evaluate and hire a remodeler.
1.
Always Go with a Pro
2.
Do Your Research
The best place to start is the Directory of Professional Remodelers at tallyba.com or contact the Tallahassee Builders Association at 850.385.1414. A professional remodeler will uphold the highest professional and ethical standards in the industry. These sources can also help you find a remodeler who specializes in a specific type of remodeling if you need it, such as a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) to help modify your home to better suit you as you age, or a Certified Green Remodeler (CGP) to make your home more energy-efficient.
Look at the prospective remodeler’s company website and social media accounts to see photos of their work. Visit review sites like HomeAdvisor or Houzz, etc., to see more pictures and to read reviews of remodeling companies. Take the good with the bad when reading online reviews and focus on the descriptions of experiences and qualities that are most important to you as a customer. Ask for referrals from friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and others who have had remodeling work done on comparable homes under similar schedules.
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TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
provided by Tallahassee Builders Association Larry Wayne Strickland CIP, CAPS President, Tallahassee Builders Association
3.
Create Your Short List
4.
Start Taking Notes
5.
Trust Your Instincts
Once you have a list of potential home remodelers for your project, do a little more background research to verify that they are appropriately licensed and have a good business track record. Look them up with your local or state office of consumer protection. Verify that the remodeler has the appropriate licenses and registrations.
When you begin meeting with remodelers, you want to find out information such as: • How long they have been in business in your community? Can they provide references from customers and suppliers they work with? • Do they carry insurance that protects you from claims arising from property damage or job site injuries? Ask for a copy of the insurance certificates. • What is their working knowledge of the many types and ages of homes in the area, and what sort of issues could arise? • Do they arrange for the building permit? (The person who obtains the permit is the contractor of record and therefore liable for the work) • Do they provide a written estimate before beginning the work, and a detailed contract that spells out the work that will and will not be performed, protects both of you, provides a fair payment schedule contract and complies with local, state, and federal laws?
Make sure you are compatible with the contractor you select. Beginning your project with mutual expectations will go a long way towards a smooth remodel. You’ll spend a lot of time with your remodeler so it’s important to have a good rapport and trust in him or her. For more detailed checklists for finding, evaluating and working with a remodeler, as well as other information about remodeling your home,
Go to
tallyba.com.
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
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That’s Hot!
Kitchen makeovers
BE COUNTER
intuitive
Take your pick of tough, beautiful countertops
Y
By Homes & Land Staff
ou dice there. You slice there. You mix and mash there. Perhaps no other home surface is more used and abused than the kitchen countertop, which means these areas must be durable, easy to maintain and look good at the same time. That’s a tall order, so let’s talk specifics. What are the pros and cons of some of today’s more popular materials?
NATURAL STONE: Granite, shown at right, is the gold standard for countertops, with surveys finding that a majority of home buyers prefer surfaces of this beautiful and tough natural stone. Naturals such as marble and soapstone also get high points for style. Pros: durable, wide array of colors and distinctive patterns, long-lasting, heat-resistant. Cons: Needs routine sealing, can chip or crack.
ENGINEERED STONE: Consumer Reports magazine gives engineered quartz countertops top ratings, and so do interior designers and homeowners. The increasingly popular material, available in an impressive number of colors, is made from about 95 percent ground natural quartz and 5 percent polymer resins. Pros: incredibly tough and doesn’t require sealing. Cons: Cooks should use trivets to protect it from excessive heat. WOOD: Long at home in country-style kitchens, wood also complements today’s cleanly modern spaces. Pros: withstands cutting and chopping without dulling knives, longlasting. Cons: Can be discolored and damaged by moisture and heat, can shrink or expand with dryness or moisture, requires sealing and routine maintenance.
METAL: A thoroughly modern material, stainless steel countertops complement many appliance finishes. Other options: copper, pewter and zinc. Pros: antibacterial; stain- and heat-resistant; durable. Cons: Some metals are susceptible to scratches and dents; some can’t be repaired.
Also on designers’ radar:
Cement and recycled glass get high marks for durability and style.
LAMINATE IS STILL A CONTENDER Laminate was once the default choice for countertops, and it remains an excellent lower-cost option.
colors, many with graphic designs, and in patterns that mimic natural materials such as stone and wood.
■ The material is made of paper and plastic resin formed into a thin layer and given color and texture. That layer is in turn bonded with adhesives to plywood, particle board or chip board.
■ Pros: Laminate is durable, easy to clean and needs no sealing. It is also very flexible and can be cut to fit most anywhere.
■ The
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TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
surface comes in a rainbow of
■ Cons: Shows scratches, can stain and lacks heat resistance.
H ASSOCIATION TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS
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Builders
Come See US At
Booth 157A
Enter for a chance to win a barn door. Scan the QR code to Enter. Or visit our booth to place an entry.
Elizabeth Ekk
Realtor速/Partner elizabeth@eHRealtyGroup.com
850.567.3455
Jeff Ragan
Realtor速 Jeff@eHRealtyGroup.com
850.273.2520
Verlonda Johnson
Realtor速 Verlonda@eHRealtyGroup.com
850.212.2403
Sandie Rice
Realtor速 Sandie@eHRealtyGroup.com
www.EHRealtyGroup.com
850.228.0634
CBC1254511
Serving Tallahassee & Surrounding Areas
(850) 878-3178 License# RF0039801 CFC1428704
Servicing All Your Plumbing & Gas Needs Remodeling Kitchen, Bath, and More! Water Heaters - Gas, Electric, Tank, & Tankless Repipes, Backhoe, Trenching TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
25
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Ranked Among Tallahassee’s Top 10 Real Estate Companies
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TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
850.329.7000 www.PrimeSouthRealty.com
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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New Home & Remodeling Specialist
Stan Derzypolski • 850-570-4767 Over 40 Years of Real Estate Experience lucretia@tapstally.com
www.tapstally.com
(850)545-9584
(850)545-2866
T homas A cquisition & P roperty S pecialists, inc. Lic. in Fl. & Ga.
Lucretia S. Thomas GRI, CRS Lic. Real Estate Broker
Nicholas Mihalich Lic. in Florida & Georgia
Realtor®
242 Lafayette Circle, Tallahassee, Florida 32303
Joan H. Raley CRS, CDPE, SFR, e-PRO, GRI ABR, CHMS, Home Economist
Cell or Text: (850) 545-9390 E-Fax: 1-888-798-1950 Joan H. Raley, REALTOR® 2425 Bass Bay Drive Tallahassee, Florida 32312
www.JoanRaley.com
Since 1978
E-mail: Joan@JoanRaley.com
The Professional’s Choice BUYING AND SELLING Call Jackie Johnson to advertise 850.570.0327
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
27
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EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE WITH STYLISH DESIGN!
CARPET
•
TILE
•
LAMINATE
•
HARDWOOD
•
VINYL
2866 Industrial Plaza Drive | Tallahassee, FL 32301 | 850.656.2666 Come see us at Booth 11-11A for all your flooring needs
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TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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(850) 574-6400
4926-C Six Oaks Dr. Tallahassee, FL 32303
Locally Owned
¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥
Custom Chimney Caps Outdoor Kitchens Fireplaces Fire Pits Gas Logs Wood Stoves
¥ ¥ ¥ ¥
Pizza Ovens Grills Service Installation
Visit Our Showroom: 5040 W Tharpe St #101
850-727-4282
w w w . H e a r t h P a t i oTa l l a h a s s e e . c o m
TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
TALLAHASSEE
better living GUIDE
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TALLAHASSEE
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TALLAHASSEE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
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Get what you really want!
Hundreds of Choices Your Superstore for Quality Brick, Tile, Wood, and Stone We are proud to offer one of the largest selection of styles, designs, and possibilities in the Tallahassee area. With such a large selection it will be our pleasure to give you personalized service about the benefits and features of our products. Why? We want nothing more than for you to be our next satisfied customer. Thats why we have been a top choice for over 35 years.
tee Guaran d n i M Peace of
Call today for a Free Estimate and discuss with one of our experts about how we can help you achieve your goals.
850-531-0725 www.Brick.com
660 Capital City NE, Tallahassee FL, 32301 | Open 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday
31
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Tallahassee.homesandland.com
— 10 —
For more information Text Code to 81035