Real estate jan 2018

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Thursday Jan. 25, 2018

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

Smart homes: Products organize life through voice (BPT)

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he artificial intelligence that’s already taking the world by storm is ramping up even more in 2018, enabling a number of innovative new smart home tools that can make your life easier, more comfortable or just more fun.

Throughout the year, consumers worldwide are expected to spend $102 billion on hardware, services and installation related to smart home systems, an amount expected to ramp up to $157 billion by 2022. The number of connected things installed in smart cities by next year?

Nearly 1.1 billion, predicts Statista. Increasingly, people will enjoy the convenience of being able to monitor and control their surroundings with a simple touch or a few words of direction. In fact, a 2017 study found 24 percent of consumers already own a voice-controlled device and another 20 percent plan to purchase one in the next year.

“Pretty much anything can be made smart these days,” notes Bernard Marr in Forbes. “For our homes, there are obvious smart products like TVs and less obvious ones, like yoga mats that track your Downward Dog. We can carry out a whole range of tasks on the move simply by touching a screen.”

Some of the hottest smart home products that have recently debuted: · LG’s entire line of OLED TVs is now AI enabled.

They also let you speak right into the remote control so with one word, you can check weather reports, search for content from over-the-air or streaming sources (including Netflix, Amazon, Hulu or YouTube), order items through Google or even control other IoT devices within your network.

Even better, LG Electronics has invented a nextgeneration Oled TV that combines the most powerful A9 Intelligent Processor created with Atmos audio technology. The result? The LG Signature TV W8 offers stunningly clear and detailed pictures, cinema-quality sound and ultra-fast response times. · Seeking the smartest refrigerator on the market?

The Wi-Fi-enabled LG ThinQ InstaView is the first to offer built-in Amazon Alexa that responds to your spoken directions by creating to-do lists and grocery lists, ordering the groceries themselves, controlling your refrigerator settings, playing the music of your choice and otherwise stepping up to make your life easier. A convenient touchscreen panel lets you instantaneously peruse the weather, recipes, shopping sites or the contents of your fridge – without losing energy by opening the door. · Hands-free speakers with voice-activated assistants such as Google Home and Amazon Echo are helping tens of millions of people worldwide efficiently manage their lives by interacting on command with everything from home appliances to entertainment

systems to information sources to online shopping venues. · What’s for dinner? Recipe apps like SideChef and Innit already deliver fast and intelligent answers to that age-old question, giving everything needed to plan and prepare the next meal. Voice-controlled AI takes this to the next level. Innit is now connected to some models of smart ovens, and for SideChef that feature is coming online in 2018. What does that mean for home chefs? When they speak to the oven to start heating, it will already know those roasted veggies need 25 minutes in a 425-degree oven. · In its latest version, the Bluetooth music headset that may already be a staple of your life allows you to access the Google Assistant by voice so you can instantly access a range of functions beyond just music. The LG TONE PLATINUM SE lets you request and receive notifications and answers to questions, send text or audio messages and more while you’re on the go.

Thanks to the continual evolution of technology, we can start the new year with fun new products aimed at making our lives more efficient, organized and enjoyable. And that pattern should only continue into the future.

“Already, many of us wake up in our ‘smart beds’ to a Bluetooth-connected alarm clock that communicates with our WiFi-enabled speakers,” notes marketing consultant A.J. Agrawal in Entrepreneur. “Soon, all our devices – microwaves, washing machines and even bird feeders – will be connected to the web. With geospatial data from all of our devices, tech-savvy companies will be able to optimize and automate systems, eradicating inefficiencies caused by human error.”

New year, new you: Be productive at home

(BPT)

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t’s a new year, the time people traditionally take a look at what’s working in their lives and what could be kicked up a notch. If you could use more productivity and efficiency in your life, you’re not alone. Sometimes, it’s all anyone can do to make it through the day unscathed, let alone slay every item on their to-do list.

The good news? There’s help out there. Here are some tips, tactics and technology to help you wrangle productivity and efficiency back into your life at work and at home this year.

Eat that frog

If procrastination bedevils you, take a page from Mark Twain. He famously said if you eat a live frog first thing in the morning, you can go about the rest of your day knowing the worst is behind you. Author Brian Tracy brings that philosophy into the workplace, coaching people to “eat that frog,” or, get your most unpleasant or challenging task – the thing you’re most likely to put off

– done first. It’s a powerful way to cut down on procrastination, accomplish more and slay your to-do list every day.

Get smart at home

Artificial intelligence is going to be big in 2018, with everything from chatbots helping you with your banking questions to devices designed to make your home smarter and life easier. LG Electronics has just released its AI device, the LG ThinQ Speaker, which comes with Google Assistant built in and features improved vocal clarity thanks to technology from Meridian Audio, the maker of high-performance audio solutions. With a voiceactivated interface it serves as a smart home hub for your entertainment needs and for LG’s smart home appliances.

Another LG device that plays well with the Google Assistant is the TONE Platinum SE, a Bluetooth headset that has a button for accessing the Google Assistant in a snap.

It allows you to have a more natural conversation with it instead of always having to prompt everything with “Hey Continued on page 6C

Page 2C • Thursday, Jan 25, 2018

Real Estate

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

Top 5 features millennials look for in a home

(BPT)

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or generations, homeownership has been part of the American dream. For most Americans, it’s the largest, most significant investment they’ll make, and because homeownership is the best way to grow their wealth, the most important investment as well.

As the youngest generation of new homeowners, millennials are entering the housing market and are eager to get a home to fit their unique lifestyles. Just as every generation has its own music, its distinct style and look, the new generation of homeowners has different expectations than buyers did a few decades ago. To shed some light on these evolving home trends, here are five of the most popular features millennials look for in a home.

1. It needs to be energy efficient. More than other generations, millennials are particularly concerned with their impact on the environment. As such, they want to be sure the home they buy will have a minimal carbon footprint.

Some energy-efficient features that are a priority for homebuyers are UV-protected windows, programmable thermostats, efficient appliances and upgraded insulation.

2. It needs to be customized to their tastes. It’s not enough to find a home that is merely “livable”; millennials want a house that is an outward and inward expression of who they are. Translation: The one-size-fits-all model is no longer sufficient. This is one reason manufactured and modular homes from Clayton Homes have become so popular. They offer diverse floor plans with a number of customizable options to suit individuals’ needs and unique styles. There are even built-in home features for pets!

3. Rethinking space usage. The era of buying a house as big as you can afford is on the way out. Many millennials are forgoing the extra bedrooms and enormous living rooms. These homebuyers prefer smarter ways to utilize space for their family’s needs, while keeping a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

4. Open floor plan.

In a world where everyone seems to be plugged into their phones and staring at their individual screens, the open floor plan has emerged as a way for families and guests to come together and share the same space.

Basically, the fewer walls between the kitchen, dining room and living room, the better. This floor plan also aids homeowners with their entertaining needs and provides more natural light, which is very big for this young generation.

5. A room for a home office. The millennial workforce is a mobile workforce, and just as this generation is transforming the home market, it is also transforming the workplace. Millions of Americans work from home, and many more are often given the option to work a day or two a week from home. With this shift, many potential homeowners want to be sure there is a suitable workspace for an office.

With evolving needs and different tastes, many millennials worry that they will spend a lot of time searching for that one, perfect dream home. At Clayton Homes, we provide a range of green, energy-efficient home models that can be customized with a range of affordable options. From the kitchens to outdoor living areas and multifunctional spaces, millennials and everyone else can find the choices that will allow them to tailor their home and their living space to suit their lifestyle.

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

Real Estate

Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018 • Page 3C

5 must-have home features for retirees

(BPT)

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s we move through the different stages in our lives, our housing needs change too. The home you were excited to move into in your 30s might not be ideal for those now nearing retirement.

According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, between 2015 and 2035, the number of people over the age of 75 living alone will nearly double from 6.9 million to 13.4 million. Being prepared for retirement and aging is important, so we’re going to take a closer look at the specific housing features that would most benefit those who are looking to downsize or find that perfect home to “age in.”

1. Walk-in showers

4. Low maintenance

Installing a walk-in bathtub or large shower is a good idea for ease and safety. Having extra room to move is not only aging-friendly, but a timeless trend that is easy to maintain. Clayton, one of America’s largest homebuilders, features optional walk-in showers with benches that are available in many of their homes. This is a feature that’s great at any age.

Fixing up an older home with good bones might look fun on TV, but it’s not something you will want to deal with in your retirement. Rather than trying to troubleshoot problem after problem, look for a newly constructed home. Not only will you have fewer maintenance issues, but you can design a flexible floor plan that fits your lifestyle.

2. Wide doors and hallways

5. A customizable floor plan

Spacious doors and wide hallways do the double duty of making your home look great while providing enough space to maneuver a wheelchair or walker through if needed.

3. Open floor plans

The features listed so far are part of what is commonly known as age-in-place design. These home features work for people of all ages, but are designed so you can age into them. In addition, make sure the home you purchase is single-story and fits the lifestyle you want for your future.

A home design trend that is perfect for any homeowner age is an open floor plan. But for boomers, an open floor plan is more than just an aesthetic feature.

Having wide spaces that allow you to move around is essential to maintaining your independence as you grow older. It also helps add more natural light and is ideal when gathering with family and friends.

As you grow older, you realize there is no one, perfect dream home. Rather, there are different dream homes for different stages of your life. At Clayton, we know one home model does not fit all, and that is why we offer a range of models and designs that are easily customizable, affordable and stylish, allowing you to get the most out of your silver years.

Real Estate

Page 4C • Thursday, Jan 25, 2018

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

Creating a dream home with cypress Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, says it’s not enough to sim-

(BPT)

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ransforming the unremarkable into the extraor-

ply add crown molding. Too basic!

dinary need not be an impossible task. More and

more homeowners are finding that lavish looks

ings with more creative design solutions and materials,”

“Owners today are looking to celebrate their ceil-

are both attainable and affordable. Their imaginative de-

Chick says. “In large rooms where I have tall ceilings to

sign professionals are making it happen, using cypress to

work with, I typically use a coffered ceiling. Filling in

create their clients’ dream homes.

the coffers with wood helps to warm up a room and add

“Wood is a classic and timeless building material,”

says Stephen Logue of the Southern Cypress Manufac-

another layer of detail. Cypress with a square groove is my favorite wood to use for ceiling treatments. I just love how it

turers Asso-

looks, espe-

ciation. “And

cially when

many people

combined

are discov-

with cypress

ering that

beams.”

the inherent beauty

Adding the

of cypress,

finishing

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touch

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applications,

finish for

adds a luxu-

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Chick pre-

for anything from walls

Design professionals are creating stunning living spaces with cypress woodwork.

and ceilings, to exposed beams and so much more.”

Transforming the ordinary

When a coat of paint just won’t do, think paneling.

For Christopher Rose, an architect based in Johns Island, South Carolina, solid wood paneling provides a sense of warmth and richness to a room. But not just any wood.

“I particularly like working with cypress,” says

Rose. “It has a wonderful grain pattern that offers a relaxed, yet elegant look. Vertical beadboard or tongueand-groove patterns are popular options that add perceived height to a room. And more recently, horizontal shiplap paneling and accent walls have been requested by many clients.”

Reaching new heights

Looking to add dimension and visual interest to

otherwise flat, dull ceilings? Architect Geoff Chick of

fers stains.

“It’s a shame

to cover cypress with paint,” Chick says. “To help bring out its grain pattern, I like finishing it with a matte stain or pickled finish. Some rooms require a lighter finish than others, and it can be a challenge to coordinate with flooring. But from my experience with cypress, it’s all worth it when it comes together.”

And remember, much like wood cabinets and

floors, solid cypress paneling and ceilings can be refinished. If you’re envisioning a fresh look down the road, swap neutral tones for bold colors, or sand the wood and apply a transparent stain to let cypress’s natural beauty speak for itself.

Browse the Photo Gallery at www.CypressInfo.org

and see how cypress transforms the unremarkable to the extraordinary. It’s time to make your dream home a reality.

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

(BPT)

Real Estate

Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018 • Page 5C

5 spring remodeling projects sure to brighten your home

During the coldest months of the year, it’s hard not to think about the warmer months to come – and all that they hold. You may already be planning your next vacation or outdoor activities to host in your backyard this summer. Now is the time to brainstorm about your spring home remodeling projects that can add enjoyment and value to your humble abode.

Home remodeling projects on the rise

As the U.S. economy continues to strengthen, home improvement project investment by homeowners has increased, according to the latest Residential Remodeling Index (RRI) study. As spring is a popular time for renovation projects, you may want to start checking out popular design trends, researching product choices and figuring out what you like and what works for your family.

· Make your outdoor space amazing. Once the weather turns warm, spending time outdoors will be top on your list. That makes now the perfect time to plan how you’ll use this outside space. A pergola is an easy-to-build addition that can give you a relaxing place to avoid the sun. Adding a flagstone seating area or creating a decorative border for a new fire pit might be perfect for your family. Try planting flowers for a pop of color, or invest more with new bushes or trees to round out your landscaping project. Plants like day lilies or hostas can survive in almost any environment and

Here are five projects that can help you reinvent your home this spring. Besides making your home more livable and meeting your family’s needs, you will be investing in the real estate value of your property. · Take the mud out of the room. You don’t have to allow the mudroom to live up to its name. Consider installing a Fiat Molded Stone mop service basin with a multifunction hand shower to give your family a convenient and stylish spot to wash off boots and other bulky items.

It’s also a great place to give your dog a bath or wash off dirty paws to ensure nothing is tracked into the house.

Bathing your pet or washing off bulky outside items is convenient with this Fiat Molded Stone · Shed a little (more) light in your foyer. and multi-function hand shower installed in your mud room.

Your foyer is the entry point into your home, and mop service basin · the right lighting solution can make this space · are an easy, effective way to optimize your green all the more welcoming. Newer LEDs or halogen space. light sources naturally generate a warmth that’s perfect for the entryway. Be sure to install a dim· Shower power for all. For the all-purpose family mer switch with your new lighting solution; it’s the bathroom, upgrading to a highly functional shower best way to ensure your lights provide exactly the system will deliver results efficiently and enjoyright ambiance for your entrance hall. ably for all users. The American Standard Spectra+ shower system employs first-to-market technology · A masterful master bath. Perhaps no room is that allows you to change the spray patterns simply more capable of providing luxurious relaxation by touching the outside ring of the showerhead for than your bathroom. If yours isn’t living up to this a customizable experience. The Spectra+ eTouch billing, it may be time for some changes. The DXV system also includes a remote control that can be Oak Hill bathroom collection offers a freestandmounted to any surface, allowing anyone having ing slipper tub for ultimate bathing comfort, along trouble reaching the showerhead to enjoy the same with a stylish high-efficiency toilet with a unique personalized shower satisfaction. It’s luxurious and traditional farmhouse style. A coordinating highaccommodating. What could be better than that? back sink accented with a charming wall-mount

faucet can finish off this bathroom remodel for ultimate enjoyment and function. This may be just the spruce-up needed to enhance your personal space, while adding value to your home at the same time.

The spring season is home improvement season, so don’t let it pass you by. Start thinking now, while staying warm inside during the colder months. Figure out what needs to get done first, then look online or in stores for ideas and get inspired for your spring home renovations.

It will be project time before you know it.

Page 6C • Thursday, Jan 25, 2018

Stuck inside? Easy tips to freshen up your living space (BPT) Winter weather means more time living indoors - working, playing, relaxing and staying warm.

It’s important to keep your home fresh by staying ahead of the continual buildup of dirt, dust and allergens. The following are some key areas to tackle for a comfortable and efficient home.

Wash windows Washing away dirt and water marks from your windows and screens gives you a clear view of the outdoors and lets in more natural light. It will also make your home feel lighter and brighter, keeping cabin fever at bay. And to help maintain a controlled climate inside the home, prevent air from leaking in or escaping by using weatherstripping or caulk around your windows. You’ll stay cozy inside and save money on your energy bill.

Check and replace your vacuum bag, filter and belt A full vacuum bag, clogged filter or broken belt can hinder your vacuum’s effectiveness, leaving dirt, dust and allergens behind. Replacing your vacuum bags every 1-2 months, filters every 3-6 months and belts once per year is recommended to help your vacuum achieve peak performance.

Even more, a Filtrete HEPA vacuum filter will help trap particles 75 times smaller than a human hair, including 99.97 percent of dust mite debris, animal dander, molds and pollen.

Don’t forget to look up After tackling floors, dust ceiling fans and light fixtures. These hard-to-reach and hard-to-see places can harbor dust. And while you’re up there, change the direction of your ceiling fans to counterclockwise for the winter. This will keep air moving, but circulate warm air instead of cooling the room down.

Continued from 1C

Google.”

YNAB

Struggling with your finances?

Check out You Need A Budget. It’s an online program that helps users take control of their spending and save money with the goal of getting out of the living-paycheck-to-paycheck snare. On average, YNAB helps users save $600 by the second month and $6,000 the first year.

A dry cleaner in your closet

If you have ever scowled into your closet realizing you have nothing clean or wrinkle-free to wear to the office, the LG Styler from LG Electronics is for you. It looks like a closet of the future, but it’s a steam cleaner and wrinkle reducer that uses just water to get the job done. Hang your clothes inside, close the door and boom, they come out clean, fresh and lovely.

Keep your resolutions

Setting goals for 2018? There’s an app for that. It’s called Strides, and it tracks any goal or habit you’d like to incorporate into your life. Weight loss, exercise, getting up early, you name it, Strides can track your progress and let you know how you’re doing.

Wrestle laundry into submission

If your family’s mountain of laundry eats up your weekends, check out the LG TWINWash. It takes the pain out of laundry day. It features the LG SideKick, a pedestal washer (an industryfirst innovation) that can tackle smaller loads, delicates and intimates. You can run both the SideKick and the main washer at the same time, and it’s also Wi-Fi enabled so you can check the status of your laundry from anywhere using your smartphone.

Using tips, tactics and technology, you can be your best, most productive, efficient self in 2018, giving you more time to enjoy everything the new year has to offer.

Real Estate

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS