2017 Montana Dream Homes

2017 MONTANA

DREAM HOMES DECORATING • OWNERSHIP • OUTDOORS • IMPROVEMENTS

2017 MONTANA DREAM HOMES

your sourcE for rEal EstatE

FEATURES DECORATING Make kid-friendly spaces at home

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6 ways to update home décor this spring

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Create drama with bold paint colors

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complete local mls listings

OWNERSHIP Hunting and fishing on the Bighorn River

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3 tips to prepare to sell your home

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What to know about down payments

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OUTDOORS Budget-friendly outdoor renovation ideas

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Help plants survive sizzling summer heat

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Stop weeds before they take over

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IMPROVEMENTS Bring more natural light into a home How to transform a fixer-upper

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Carpet installation system improves indoor air quality 11

BEHIND THE SCENES General Manager Dave Worstell Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Advertising Manager Shelli Scott Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Knatterud Montana Dream Homes is a special advertising publication of The Billings Gazette

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It’s Easy!

Search for open houses on billingsgazette.com or download “billings gazette homes” app in your app store.

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Find homes in your price range and location.

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Find a realtor who can guide you through the process.

Access Montana Dream Homes at billingsgazette.com/specialsections Cover images by Larry Mayer of The Gazette Staff

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2017 Montana Dream Homes

MAKE KID-FRIENDLY SPACES AT HOME

ily removed and laundered.

Patterned fabrics will hide some stains, while treated fabrics may resist liquid spills for easier cleanup.

Create a catch-all spot. Special bins or other organizational tools in the entryway can help to cull clutter when children come in the house from school or play. Be sure the keep cubbies, containers and coat hooks at a child-friendly height.

Look for high-traffic rugs. Rugs designed for high-traffic areas will be more forgiving when children march across them several times per day. There are no rules that say you can’t bring an outdoor rug inside, and these rugs tend to be easier to clean.

Ensure there is plenty of seating. Sectionals give children ample room to spread out. And ample seating ensures there is enough room for kids to invite their friends over to hang out.

Think outside pink and blue. For children’s

For children’s rooms, make sure they’re colorful, but consider other hues to give the rooms some personality.

rooms, make sure they’re colorful, but consider other hues to give the rooms some personality. Focus on a hobby or activity and borrow the color scheme from the accessories used for decorating.

Hang whimsical artwork. Employ framing and lighting to make kids’ artwork look like professional pieces. Routinely change the pictures when a

Add some flavor to your life with a home equity loan from Billings Federal Credit Union. Access the money you need to remodel your kitchen, take a vacation or simmer away your credit card debt.

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aintaining a home that is welcoming and kid-friendly can be challenging.

Kids are full of energy and oftentimes put fun ahead of tidiness. But no matter how

energetic their youngsters are, parents can still employ several strategies to ensure their homes are both sophisticated and child-friendly.

Consider an open floor plan. Rooms that flow into one another make it easier to keep tabs on children.

Such rooms also allow resi-

dents and guests to mingle in separate rooms but not be too far away from one another.

Choose washable fabrics. Upholstery will need to stand up to the abuse kids can dish out. Sofas and chairs with slipcovers can be advantageous because many slipcovers can be eas-

Applying is quick and easy and the interest may be tax deductible.* Contact a home equity expert today.

new look is desired.

Designate a place for play. Devote an entire room or a nook in a house for imaginative play. Store toys here so these items will not create clutter in individual bedrooms.

Creating child-friendly spaces while ensuring a home maintains a sophisticated feel is easier than parents might think.

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2017 Montana Dream Homes

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Create drama with 6 ways to update home décor this spring bold paint colors Metro Services

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ainting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform the look of a space. Paint colors can dramatically change the mood and the design of a home. And depending on a homeowner’s goals, paint can make a statement or blend into the background.

Many people are now looking to bold colors to make spaces stand out. But choosing a paint color can be challenging. Homeowners looking to update walls and complement decor may want to look at some of the more impactful colors that Pantone indicates will be popular for the 2017 season. Primrose Yellow, Lapis Blue, Flame, Pink Yarrow, and Greenery are some of the more eyecatching selections. Once colors are selected, consider these guidelines for using bolder colors in room designs.

Decide how big an impact you want to make.

Are you looking for color overload or just a small focal point of vivid color? Remember, using bold color doesn’t mean every wall must be lathered in that hue.

Instead, select one wall to serve as

an accent point and use that spot as your bold color display. Otherwise, rely on bold colors to dress up otherwise mundane areas, such as the back wall of a cupboard or moldings and trim.

Try bold in a small space. Many people are surprised at how well bold colors work in small spaces. Powder rooms can be an ideal spot to experiment with paint colors. Try deep colors that can make the area seem intimate and even exotic. Dark, bold hues can be toned down by different accents, such as neutral colored fixtures and towels.

Go bold in the kitchen. Incorporate a splash of color in the kitchen without going overboard. Try an appliance or design fixture in a bright shade.

Or paint the inside of the cabinets in your favorite color and install glass in-

serts in the cabinet doors so that everyone gets a peek of the color beyond.

A neutral kitchen also can be brightened up with the use of silverware, dishes, pots and pans, and other kitchen items featured in bold hues.

Stick to boldness on interchangeable items.

Those who like to experiment with color may find that they like to switch out the colors now and again.

Instead of having to repaint every few months, use decorative items in bright shades to make swapping out color that much easier. For example, replace area rugs, throw pillows and draperies. Paint over terra cotta flower pots when the mood strikes.

Establish balance.

Rely on neutral furniture, rugs, moldings and baseboards if you decide to take bold colors up a notch. This will help create a sense of balance in the room.

Painting is a fun way to experiment with color. Many homeowners are not hesitant to use bold shades of color when they learn the right techniques. And because paint is an inexp en sive option for making over a room, homeowners who find they do not like a particular color can easily paint over it with a new color.

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pring is the perfect time to re-evaluate your home’s décor and color palette. After the long winter season, interiors often need a facelift.

Get inspired to freshen up your home with these six 2017 décor trends from interior designer and DIY television personality, Taniya Nayak.

1. Add timeless touches Tasteful updates can help create an elegant family room that will never go out of style. Display heirlooms and vintage-inspired items, such as traditional candle holders or a vase, and pair with a modern color scheme such as white or navy, to achieve a tailored and timeless look in your living room.

2. Apply modern morphing techniques Morph a wide-open space together with bold colors and patterns that help bridge the gap between rooms. Accomplish this with a large piece of geometric artwork or by utilizing color-blocking techniques to paint an accent wall, which tricks the eye as to where one room ends and another begins.

Before painting an accent wall, it’s important to tape off windows, doorways and trim to prevent splatter. One of the most important tools for any painting project is a premium painter’s tape, such as FrogTape brand paint-

nest, immerse yourself in layers by integrating different textures and soft patterns in colors, such as blush pinks, creams and soft grays. Start by adding blankets and sheer drapery. Place a rug on top of carpet. Finish the look with ruffled pillows or a faux fur throw for a space that is cozy and chic.

Create a statement accent piece by painting a natureinspired pattern like florals or feathers.

er’s tape, which is treated with patented PaintBlock Technology to help ensure your work looks seamless and to deliver the sharpest transition lines between the newly painted accent wall and adjacent walls.

3. Interweave textures and bold patterns Be bold and embrace this indie-meets-midcentury trend to add character to a space. An easy way to attain this look is by pairing patterned pillows with deep, intense colors from an area rug. Or, take it one step further and create a wall design comprised of overlapping paint using rich shades such as blue, pink o red, for a truly authentic look.

4. Create luscious layers Allow yourself to feel wrapped in luxury with this emerging trend.

When creating a peaceful

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5. DIY haute homemade projects Elevate your home with handmade personal touches that bring comfort and warmth into a room. Go bold and paint stripes on an area rug, or give flea market finds a chic update with metallic paint. If you want to start small, try transforming an ordinary basic into a fun planter by painting the bottom with fresh white paint. For professional looking results, you can use FrogTape brand painter’s tape to achieve a crisp line.

6. Incorporate nature’s influence Integrate fresh flowers and surprising pops of color, like yellow or teal, with natural finishes, such as wood, to create an unexpected yet whimsical look. Or create a statement accent piece by painting a nature-inspired pattern like florals or feathers. All you need is paint and painter’s tape to DIY a look that brings nature’s outdoor influence inside.

Get started on your décor projects now so that you can ensure your home is up-to-date with the latest design trends.

2017 Montana Dream Homes

Hunting and fishing on the Bighorn River Ten Bear property provides access to the best of both worlds

By DREW HEDRICK Century 21 Hometown Brokers

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he Bighorn River is truly a year-round sportsman’s paradise. The Montana section of the Bighorn River begins as it reemerges from below Yellowtail Dam near Fort Smith. Consistent water temperatures throughout the year create ideal conditions for growing trout, as well as providing a key flyway for tens-of-thousands of Canadian Geese, Mallards, Wood Ducks, Goldeneye, and other migratory waterfowl.

The valley’s fertile farm ground provides an outstanding food source for migrating waterfowl and large local pheasant populations.

Field hunting over decoys is the most popular method of hunting geese in the valley, and starting in November when the migratory flocks begin to arrive, goose hunting could be described as none other than spectacular on a daily basis.

The Bighorn is also known for its exceptional duck hunting. During the early portion of the season, Wood Ducks and Teal are the primary focus for duck hunters. As the season progresses into December, large groups of Mallards begin to arrive in droves from the north, with Mallard numbers peaking around January 1st. While field hunting for ducks can

be successful, most hunters choose to target the birds on the river, over decoys, with their favorite retriever. Extensive pheasant populations can be found throughout the valley on the brushy river bottoms, in cattail marshes, and in heavy cover bordering farm ground For those in the fly-fishing world, the Bighorn River is synonymous with world-

class trout fishing. Boasting estimated numbers of between 8,000 and 12,000 fish per river mile over the first 13 miles, a winter midge, or summer caddis hatch can find a single run filled with hundreds of nosing trout. Dry-fly opportunities are spread throughout all 12 months of the year with hatches of Caddis, PMD, Yellow Sally, Midge, Hopper, and Trico. While the dry-fly fishing can be highly productive at times, most anglers find nymphing midge and scud patterns under an indicator to be the most consistent. For trout anglers, the Bighorn is best known for the top 26 mile stretch from Afterbay to the Mallards landing fishing access, however quality trout water is abundant throughout the next 20 miles as well. All in all, the Bighorn provides fly anglers with 45+ river miles of rare opportunity to fish how they want, when they want, to huge numbers of willing trout.

The Ten Bear property provides its owners with the rare luxury of possessing both the habitat, and access, to the best of everything mentioned above... all from the home’s front deck.

4829 TEN BEar road Hunt - Fish - Live $1,120,000

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While the outdoors at Ten Bear are undoubtedly impressive, the interior of this stunning log masterpiece will draw you back to the indoors. The home boasts 3,800 Square feet of impeccable log construction and features a custom granite kitchen, floor-to-ceiling rock fireplace, tongue and groove ceilings, dramatic riverfront views, and a layout which lends itself to either a year-round residence or a recreational getaway for a group.

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drew Hedrick 406-698-4114 drew.hedrick@century21.com

2017 Montana Dream Homes

The four beds and three and one-half baths are spread perfectly throughout 2 floors, with the master suite conveniently located on the main level. Open living space on the second level would be well used as a location for additional guest beds, a fly-tying room, or a lounging area to plan the next day’s hunt. A screened porch off the kitchen area also adds additional space to take in the surroundings.

To view additional information on this property please visit www.homeonthebighorn.com

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3 tips to prepare to sell your home Metro Services

E There are nearly 2,500 home-ownership programs across the country that can help with down payment and closing costs.

BUYING A HOME?

What to know about down payments

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f you’re in the market to buy a home, your down payment is probably top of mind. However, it’s important to understand all your options, particularly if you’ve heard the rule of thumb that you shouldn’t pursue home-ownership unless you can put 20 percent down.

“In today’s market, misconceptions about down payments are some of the most common, unfortunately” says Danny Gardner, Freddie Mac vice president of Affordable Lending. “And this discourages many prospective buyers from even leaving the starting gate.”

Gardner points out that a growing number of homebuyers are putting down between five and 10 percent,

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and even as little as three percent through products like Freddie Mac’s Home Possible Advantage. This is important to keep in mind when determining how much home you can afford.

Prospective home-buyers concerned about down payments should also be aware that there are nearly 2,500 home-ownership programs across the country that can help with down payment and closing costs, and an estimated 87 percent of U.S. homes are eligible for one or more of these programs, according to research by DownPayment Resource. The down payment program benefit most frequently found is about $10,000, making researching these options and discussing them with your lender and real estate agent a worthwhile step. To determine your eligibility and learn more about down payment assistance, visit dow npay mentresou rce.

com/are-you-eligible.

Of course, home buyers should not forget that there are benefits to putting more down initially — this will lower your monthly mortgage payment and reduce the amount you will owe the bank. Additionally, those who put down at least 20 percent don’t have to pay Primary Mortgage Insurance (PMI), an added insurance policy that protects the lender if you are unable to pay your mortgage.

However, if putting 20 percent down will deplete all of your savings and leave you with no financial reserves, it’s probably not in your best interest. What’s more, you can cancel your PMI once you’ve built equity of 20 percent in your home. Don’t assume the dream of home-ownership is beyond your reach. Get savvy! There are numerous programs and products available that can help you afford your down payment and beyond.

liminating pet odors, including those associated with pets, can help homeowners prepare their homes for prospective buyers.

According to Realtor. com, spring is the busiest and best season to sell a home. While a good home can find a buyer any time of year, homeowners might find the buyers’ pool is strongest in spring and into summer. The reasons for that are many, ranging from parents wanting to move when their children are not in school to buyers wanting to move when the weather is most accommodating.

Because spring is such a popular time to sell a home, homeowners who want to put their homes on the market should use winter as an opportunity to prepare their homes for the prying eyes of prospective buyers. The following tips can help homeowners during the pre-selling preparation process.

1. Address the exterior of the home Winter can be harsh on a home’s exterior, so as winter winds down, homeowners who want to sell their homes should make an effort to address anything that might negatively affect their homes’ curb appeal. A study

of homes in Greenville, S.C., from researchers at Clemson University found that the value of homes with landscapes that were upgraded from “good” to “excellent” increased by 6 to 7 percent. If it’s in the budget, hire professional landscapers to fi x any problematic landscaping or address any issues that arose during the winter.

Homeowners with green thumbs can tackle such projects on their own, but hiring professionals is akin to staging inside the home.

2. Conquer interior clutter Clutter has a way of accumulating over the winter, when people tend to spend more time indoors than they do throughout the rest of the year.

Homeowners who want to put their homes on the market in spring won’t have the luxury of waiting until spring to do their “spring” cleaning, so start clearing any clutter out in winter, even resolving to make an effort to prevent its accumulation throughout win-

ter. Just like buyers are impressed by curb appeal, they are turned off by clutter. The Appraisal Institute suggests homeowners clear clutter out of their homes before appraisers visit, and the same approach can be applied to open houses. Buyers, like appraisers, see cluttered homes as less valuable. In addition, a home full of clutter might give buyers the impression, true or not, that the home was not well maintained.

3. Eliminate odors A home’s inhabitants grow accustomed to odors that might be circulating throughout the house. Pet odor, for instance, might not be as strong to a home’s residents as it is to guests and prospective buyers.

Because windows tend to stay closed throughout the winter, interior odors can be even stronger come late-winter than they are during the rest of the year. A thorough cleaning of the house, including vacuuming and removal of any pet hair that accumulated over the winter, can help to remove odor.

In the weeks leading up to the open house, bathe pets more frequently, using a shampoo that promotes healthy skin so pet dander is not as prevalent. Open windows when the weather allows so more fresh air comes into the home.

Spring is a popular and potentially lucrative time to sell a home, and homeow ners who spend winter preparing their homes for the market may reap even greater rewards.

2017 Montana Dream Homes

Budget-friendly outdoor renovation ideas

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omeowners are increasingly extending their living spaces outside the walls of their homes. Expansive and intricate stonework patios and decked-out outdoor kitchens are the kind of additions many homeowners dream of. Those with unlimited budgets can enjoy just about any look they desire, but many homeowners may not have the money to go all the way with their outdoor living spaces. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to create budget-friendly spaces that are functional, fun and eye catching.

Decks and patios are popular gathering spots outside a home, and homeowners have numerous inexpensive options at their disposal when choosing patio materials. And those who can do their own labor when installing a patio can save a substantial amount of money. Instead of higher-priced composite or resin decks, homeowners can go with standard wood, which will need to be stained periodically. Scaling back the size of the deck means

less materials to buy and less labor involved.

The cost of patio blocks depends on the material and style. Poured concrete patios will cost less than placed blocks or stones because concrete is less labor-intensive. For those who desire the look of patio blocks without the cost, stamped concrete can mimic the look for less.

Homeowners may not need to replace patio furniture, even if chairs and tables have seen better days. A can of spray paint can cover up any rusted areas or spots where paint has peeled off due to exposure to the elements. Updating cushions and purchasing a coordinating umbrella can revitalize the patio’s entire look. Also, very often stores run sales to clear out merchandise for new displays.

Defining edges of planting borders and refreshing the landscape may be all that is needed to improve the yard. This is easily achieved with inexpensive mulch and some vinyl edging. While cleaning up the yard, use a pressure washer to clean stains off of

siding and patios and create a like-new appearance.

End-of-season sales can also be the ideal opportunity to purchase bigticket items like a pool, a hot tub or an outdoor fireplace/fire pit. Shoppers can learn when stores discount their merchandise to make room for new inventory and then use these sales as opportunities to save.

Sometimes saving means repurposing antiques or items found at garage sales. Thanks to the Internet, people can easily advertise items they no longer need or desire. A person can search for backyard items they need at a deep discount if they are fine with previously used materials. From patio furniture to masonry blocks to above-ground pools, patient homeowners can find just about any item they may need to upgrade their backyards.

Though not all homeowners can afford to create the backyard of their dreams, with a little ingenuity and some A little spray paint or some new cushions sweat hard work, homeowners can still can refresh older patio furniture and give the outdoor space a completely new look. create an outdoor oasis.

A step in the

right direction...

From construction to permanent financing, our real estate lenders find solutions that work for you!

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Help plants survive sizzling summer heat Metro Services

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any people consider summer the most enjoyable time of year, as the summer sun and warm breezes make the season perfect for rest and relaxation. But the months of June, July and August, which are often characterized by rising temperatures and stifling humidity, can be tough to endure as well.

When summer heat becomes especially uncomfortable, humans can simply head indoors and beat the heat in air conditioned buildings and homes. Plant life is not so lucky, and homeowners may need to take steps to help the plant life on their properties survive the summer heat.

Monitor soil moisture. Soil moisture, or a lack thereof, can help homeowners determine if their plants are struggling to survive the heat. To check soil moisture levels, use a ruler or even your finger, sticking either two inches into the ground where you suspect the soil is drying out. If the soil is damp two inches below the surface, then your plants are likely retaining enough moisture to withstand the heat. If the soil is dry two inches below, then you may want to give the soil a deep soak.

Keep an eye on container gardens. Containers may have an especially difficult time staying moist in the summer heat.

That’s particularly true for containers that sit in direct sunlight. Water container

Move plants to locations on your property that are less exposed to the heat.

gardens daily during summer heat waves, being sure to adhere to any local water restrictions.

Lay down mulch.

Mulch helps insulate and protect soil during summer, when soil can quickly dry out. When applied correctly (ideally before summer temperatures get too hot), mulch helps the soil conserve moisture and prevents weed growth.

Weeds can rob soil of the water it needs to promote strong root systems, which can help plants get the nutrients they need to

withstand summer heat.

Mulched soils also do not experience the fluctuations in temperature that non-mulched soils can experience during summer heat waves, helping plants to grow evenly.

Move plants when possible. Plant location can affect their chances of surviving summer heat. Driveways lined with flowers or other plants may look nice, but driveways exposed to the sun can radiate heat at temperatures that exceed the temperatures noted on

the thermometer. If possible, move plants to locations on your property that are less exposed to the heat and/or less likely to be affected by the heat. Move container plants beneath trees on hot days, and consider summer heat waves before planting new flower beds.

Summer heat can be especially harmful to plant life. But homeowners can employ various strategies to protect the plant life on their properties when temperatures rise during the dog days of summer.

Stop weeds before they take over

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ew things can be as troublesome to gardeners and landscapers as weeds. seemingly Weeds spring up overnight and quickly can overrun lawns and/or garden beds.

Landscaping enthusiasts may spend countless hours and weekends coping with weeds without truly getting to the root of the problem. However, preventing weed growth need not be so difficult.

According to the experts at “This Old House” and The Family Handyman, the secret to preventing weeds is to maintain a thick, healthy lawn. A vigorously growing lawn will crowd out weeds and block the sun weed seeds need to germinate and thrive. As a result, fewer herbicides may be needed and homeowners can spend less times on their hands and knees pulling out weeds.

to growing in adverse conditions, including especially hot temperatures.

When such conditions arise, weeds establish deep roots while the roots of the grass can easily die off. Instead, when watering, wet the soil to a depth of four to six inches. This helps grass to establish strong root systems that will help lawns overpower pesky weeds.

Time weed killers

Whether you manually remove weeds or apply weed killers, timing is key.

Combat weeds in the early spring before they have a time to fully form and start proliferating through seed disbursement.

Once seeds spread, their growth is difficult to control. Recognize that no single herbicide or weeding tactic will work for every type of weed. Broadleaf weeds, like dandelions, unwanted grasses, and sedges are the three most types of weeds.

Mow at the right height common Homeowners will have to Crabgrass is a notori- adapt based on the type of ously virulent weed that can weed that is most prevaquickly snuff out blades of lent in their lawns. grass. Crabgrass likes hot, dry conditions, and it only Watch fertilizer takes one plant to spread the amounts seeds that can overtake the Strike a balance with lawn. Preventing these conditions can stop crabgrass fertilizer, finding the right from flourishing. Mowing amount to deliver conat higher heights and leav- tinuous nutrition to the ing grass blades taller can lawn, but not overfeed it shade the soil, helping to so that weeds can thrive. prevent the germination of Many lawns only require crabgrass. Shady conditions fertilizer once or twice analso will help the soil retain nually, in the autumn and moisture and prevent the spring.

By following these arid conditions crabgrass guidelines, lawn and garlikes so much. den enthusiasts can prevent the proliferation of Water deeply unsightly and potentially Weeds are accustomed harmful weeds.

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2017 Montana Dream Homes

Bring more natural light into a home Metro Services

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a x i m i z i ng natural light in a home is a smart and somet i mes low-cost renovation.

Homes that are dark and drab can drain energy levels and reduce productivity. In addition, dark rooms may not be inviting places to gather as a family or when entertaining.

Certain factors contribute to a dark home.

Houses that face north or east may not get the same level of sunlight as those that primarily face south and west. Geographic location also plays a role in the amount of natural sunlight.

Mountains, buildings and even latitude can affect the amount of natural light that enters a home.

The style of a home and its attributes also may create dark conditions. Deep house eaves as well as small windows or too few windows also can contribute to a deficit of light indoors.

A major remodel certainly can remedy the situation.

However, there also are other less-extensive strategies to improve natural light.  Assess the situation before renovating. Walk around the house and determine which rooms get the most light and which conditions may be contributing to the problem in other areas.

Dark floors and walls may be absorbing natural light and compounding the situation.

You may find that only one or two rooms need attention, saving you the cost and effort associated with a major home overhaul.  Lighten up window treatments. Heavy drapes or thick blinds can be re-

2017 Montana Dream Homes

Glossy backsplashes, pendant lighting and shiny metal that reflect light can increase the natural light, balancing out dark spaces.

placed with translucent alternatives.

Translucent shades will allow light into the room without compromising privacy, say the experts at HGTV.  Use mirrors strategically. A mirror placed opposite a window will reflect light all around the room.

This can make a small room seem larger and a dark space instantly brighter.  Install new windows and doors. If the budget allows, installing larger windows in a home will allow more natural light in. French doors or sliding doors also may make a home’s interior more bright. Think about adding windows to a side of the house that has none, or increase the size of the windows on the side of the house that gets the most light.  Maximize sunlight from above. Skylights will bring light into a home as the sun passes overhead.

Tubular skylights can bring natural sunlight into spaces where you may not expect skylights to be practical. According to Houzz, a design

and architectural resource, Skylights will bring light into a home as the sun passes overhead. tubular daylighting devices, or TDDs, can make a big difference. TDDs are reflective pipes installed between the roof and ceiling, with a clear plastic dome.  Use reflective decor. Reflective surfaces, including glass and metal, can brighten up a room and diffuse light around a room.

Glossy backsplashes, pendant lighting and shiny metal that reflect light can increase the natural light, balancing out dark spaces.  Prune trees regularly. Cut back branches and keep trees tidy to maximize sunlight. Avoid planting tall shrubbery in front of windows.  Routinely clean windows and glass doors.

Dirt and other grime can prevent light from getting through. Regularly give windows a thorough washing.

Natural light is an important commodity in a home.

Sunlight can improve mood and go a long way toward keeping home occupants healthy and happy.

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EVERY SUNDAY How to transform a in The Gazette.

fixer-upper Metro Services

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• The area’s premier real estate section • Advice on home improvement • Home decorating and design tips • Special feature stories • Open house map

To subscribe call: 406.657.1298

he real estate market will always have its ups and downs, but real estate is an oft-profitable investment. Real estate investors do their investing for various reasons. Some see a house as a place to hang their hats for years and years, while others look at properties as nothing more than investments.

Buying a home with the intent to fix it up and resell it is called a “fix and flip.”

In such situations, investors buy homes at belowmarket prices before refurbishing the homes with the goal of recouping their initial investment and then some when the homes are ultimately put back on the market. Flipping has become popular for both expert remodelers and novice RealtyTrac®, investors. the nation’s leading source for comprehensive housing data, noted in its “YearEnd and Q4 2015 U.S. Home Flipping” report that 5.5 percent of all single family home and condo sales during the year were flipped properties. This marked an increase from the same time the previous year.

Investing in a fixer-upper requires a leap of faith and a vision of what the home can look like in the future. Turning a real estate lemon into lemonade requires certain skills and a good measure of patience. The following are some guidelines to get any-

Renovate with an eye toward prospective buyers’ needs. Keep things neutral and accommodating.

one started.

Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Make an honest assessment of your abilities and which renovations, if any, you can handle. If you are unskilled or inexperienced working with your hands, then it can be easy for an investment property to quickly become a money pit. Before purchasing a property, hire a trained home inspector to tour the home with you and point out all of the areas that will need renovation.

With this list, begin getting estimates on how much money the work will entail.

Determine if this fits with your budget or not. You do not want to invest so much

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that it exceeds what you could feasibly recoup when it comes time to sell.

Overlook cosmetic things when visiting properties. Cosmetic issues include all of the easily replaceable items in a home, such as carpeting, appliances, interior paint colors and cabinetry. Focus on the bones of the house - the architectural integrity and those little touches that you envision having a “wow” factor.

Seek the help of experts. Some flippers think they’ll save the most money by doing all of the work themselves. This isn’t Please see FIXER-UPPER, Page 11

2017 Montana Dream Homes

Improving indoor air quality An industry-first carpet installation system that minimizes mold, mildew, dust and irritants

mildew that can trigger allergic reactions during and after homerenovation projects.

The way carpeting is installed can dramatically reduce exposure to irritants that can provoke serious allergy and allergy-like symptoms. By minimizing dust and odors, the cleaner, healthier practices of the Healthier Liv-

ing® Carpet Installation promote better home air quality, especially for families in which allergies and dust sensitivities are a hindrance.

The system also ensures that the subfloor under the carpet is sanitized.

Here’s how it works: Throughout the installation, the HomeGuard Care System™

ensures that dust and particulates are contained to and removed from the work area. This includes using a HEPA filter-equipped vacuum that will not release dust back into the home before and after the cushion and carpet are installed.

Once the old carpet and padding are removed, the subfloors are HEPA Vac’d, then treated with

HealthinEx™ — an antimicrobial agent that disinfects, protects and diminishes mold, mildew and bacteria. Healthinex™ also traps microorganisms on the surface so they cannot become airborne, and it provides a lasting, clean surface that resists mold growth.

An antimicrobial premium carpet cushion that blocks spills from seeping through and inhibits growth of mold, mildew and odor causing bacteria is used during the installation.

“Truly, not all flooring installations are created equal. We’re very excited that we are able to offer our customer this superior installation system,” said Randy Mostad of Carpet One Floor & Home. “With the Healthier Living™ Flooring Installation System, we’re taking the extra steps homeowners today expect for a cleaner, healthier living environment in their homes.”

Healthier Living™ Installation is available exclusively through Carpet One Floor & Home.

Carpet One Floor & Home of Billings has been serving the Billings, MT area for over 35 years. Carpet One is the home of “The Beautiful Guarantee™,” which guarantees that the customer will be 100% happy with their floor. For more information visit Carpet one at 505 S. 24th St W. or call 406-656-9300

avoid common pitfalls because they’ve already done this type of work time and again. It’s smart to rely on expert advice, even if it means investing a little bit more.

Save money by doing some work yourself. While the pros may tackle the more complex parts of a given project, such as rewiring electricity or changing the footprint of a home, you can still be involved.

Ask to participate in demolition, such as taking down walls or removing old materials from the home. Such participation may be fun, and it can save you substantial amounts of money on labor.

Recognize that not everything must be completely redone. Realize that, in some instances, a coat of paint and some new accents may be all you need to transform a space.

For example, if kitchen cabinets are in good condition, see if they can be refaced or painted instead of replaced entirely. Install new door pulls/handles to add visual interest. Look for some ready-made items, such as bookshelves, instead of installing custom carpentry.

Think about what the buyer wants and not what you want. Renovate with an eye toward prospective buy-

ers’ needs. Keep things neutral and accommodating. Research the latest trends to understand what buyers might be seeking in a home. You want potential buyers to envision themselves moving right in.

Renovating a fixer-upper takes time, but it can be a worthwhile project, and one that can help anyone turn a profit in a booming real estate market.

By RANDY MOSTAD Carpet One Floor & Home

T

he air quality in your home is important. When you think about your floors, you may think that carpet is the last thing you want if you have allergies. But, it may not be the carpet at all that is causing your symptoms. It could be what is underneath your carpet that is the real culprit. Carpet and the padding underneath are often just hiding what lies beneath.

When carpet is removed during the installation process, dust, bacteria, mold and mildew that may have been concealed under your old floor can be stirred up.

And, if proper precautions aren’t taken, they will remain in your floor, underneath your new carpet.

To address these concerns, Carpet One Floor & Home has created the Healthier Living™ Installation system, which uses the most advanced technology to help clean the air of dust, odor-causing bacteria, mold and

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always the case. Professional architects, designers and contractors may help you save money. Contractors have an intimate knowledge of where to buy materials and may be able to negotiate prices based on wholesale or trade costs. In addition, experts can help you

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2017 Montana Dream Homes

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505 S. 24th St. W. 656-9300 | 1-800-320-0420

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