Wednesday March 27, 2019 An advertising supplement
REAL ESTATE THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
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Transform your bath into a retreat BPT
When you think of your bathroom, what comes to mind? A place you're in and out of quickly while getting ready for the day or winding down for the night? Your bathroom can be more than just a utilitarian space. By adding certain bathroom amenities, you can transform your bathroom into a calming oasis that serves as a retreat from everyday stressors. Consider these five ideas that provide a spa-inspired experience in the comfort of your own home:
Tantalizing tub features provide a peaceful paradise Water has many therapeutic benefits, and with the right tub, you can enjoy any time you'd like. Relieve sore muscles and calm the mind with an air bath, a soothing bathtub option that uses thousands of tiny air bubbles to melt away the day. The DXV Aqua Moment Drop-In Airbath with Waterfall provides a gentle shoulder massage that helps release tension, while the waterfall transports the mind to a peaceful paradise. Activate the chromatherapy to complete the ambiance; for example, choose purple to reduce anxiety or orange to boost energy.
Create coziness using heated elements Warmth brings relaxation, so make sure your bathroom has all the features to keep you toasty. Consider adding heated elements underneath your flooring. Just imagine being able to adjust the temperature on a knob and warming the floor to your preferred level of comfort. A heated towel rack is a musthave and easy accessory to add. Flip the switch at the start of your shower or bath and by the time you get out, your towel will be warm as if you just pulled it out of the dryer.
like self-cleaning nozzles to thoroughly and hygienically cleanse front and back are a great investment. Consider options like the AT200 LS SpaLet integrated electronic bidet toilet from DXV, which includes luxury features like a heated seat. If you can't install a full bidet, you can easily retrofit a bidet seat like the Advanced Clean SpaLet bidet seats from American Standard. These are
especially great for moms-to-be and new moms, and are a soothing way to stay clean and eliminate bacteria
Complete the experience with accessories Add the extras you need to your bathroom to make it feel like a true spa retreat. Invest in a plush robe and slippers to make you feel relaxed. New loofahs and sponges, along with scent-
Delight in a distinctive shower experience A shower can be much more than an opportunity to get clean. Modern showerheads offer an experience to delight the senses. For example, the Spectra eTouch showerhead from American Standard allows you to choose from four distinct spray patterns with the simple tap of a finger on the wallmounted remote. Select your spray pattern to jump-start your morning and another to relax at night after a busy day.
Enjoy a luxurious, clean feeling It is important to pause and take time for yourself — you've earned it. Choose bathroom products designed to offer you superior cleansing and improve your well-being. Bidet features
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ed bath products, can make the experience extra calming and luxurious. Don't forget to pick up some new, lavish towels that will wrap you in softness.After a long day at work, there's nothing better for your body and mind than the ability to experience your own "five-star" spa treatment. Even better? You don't even have to pack a bag or hop in the car now that you have a calming oasis right at home.
PAGE 2B âœŚ WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2019
REAL ESTATE
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
5 smart ideas to refresh your deck BPT
As seasons turn, your focus begins to shift to the outdoors. Your deck or patio becomes your new living room - an ideal setting for memorable moments with friends and family. If you look at these spaces and long for a refresh, the time to start planning is now. You have options, and many you can do yourself with minimal effort. To start, if you don't have a deck or patio, research materials carefully before making an investment. One prevalent building trend involves making the smart choice toward natural, environmentally friendly materials that will never end up in landfills. As such, more homeowners are choosing Real Cedar because it is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insects. It's lowmaintenance and easy to work with, being durable yet lightweight, laying straight and taking fasteners easily. Plus, nothing looks, feels or smells quite like cedar. To refresh your deck with style and functionality, consider these five trending
outdoor-living projects: Planter boxes: If you want to add beauty and functionality to your deck, construct planter boxes and put them in sunny spaces. From small boxes that house herb gardens to larger boxes that allow vegetables to thrive, you can have a bounty of fresh flavors right outside your door. No need for a garden plot! Planter box designs come in a variety of sizes and can be built low to the ground or at waist height for easy tending. Outdoor sectionals: Built-in sectionals are
becoming a focal point and favorite hangout spot on the deck. Perfectly set into a corner, these multi-directional couches can be built as large or small as you desire. Use Real Cedar for your project because it is pitch- and resin-free, so accepts and holds a wide variety of finishes beautifully so you can customize the look to your tastes. Finish with cushions for that decorator touch and you'll have your new favorite cozy outdoor corner. Water features: As homeowners look to make
their decks and patios a true retreat from the stress of everyday life, they want to add elements of Zen, which is why fountains and water features are becoming so popular. New decks are often built to incorporate these features, including pathways where water provides a calm ambiance. If a pond is too significant an undertaking, fountains provide a more affordable alternative that can be used in any size space. Pergolas: These beautiful semi-shelters can be built in a number of useful configurations depending on how
much shade you require, what you wish to situate beneath it (A dining set? Outdoor couches and chairs? Grilling equipment?) and whether you want to incorporate climbing plants. For complete project plans and instructions on how to make your own pergola over a weekend, visit www.realcedar.com. Lighting: When the sun goes down that doesn't mean the fun should stop. Add lighting to extend the functionality and enjoy special moments under the stars on your deck or patio. Stair, railing and pathway lighting add a necessary safety feature, while undertable lighting and deck-post sconces provide the perfect illumination for the space without being overwhelming. For a touch of twinkle, add a few outdoor string lights in white, or for a more festive atmosphere, go for the color of your choice. These five outdoor living ideas are sure to enhance any size deck or patio space. Make plans today so you can enjoy many seasons of fun outdoors with loved ones.
Refresh your kitchen without a major renovation BPT
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home. From cooking and eating to spending time with your family, most kitchens are well lived in and loved. But when it comes time for an upgrade, the kitchen is also one of the most expensive rooms to remodel. A full kitchen remodel can take months to complete, and the cost can add up quickly. The good news is there are plenty of budget-friendly fixes to help you rejuvenate your space without a total overhaul. Here are some top tips:
Get customizable features What if your kitchen sink could perfectly match your counter or backsplash? Customizable features like Kohler's Tailor Customizable Farmhouse Sink allow you to choose your own material for the apron front to match your existing countertop or backsplash or choose one of Kohler's designed inserts. Easily change up the look of your kitchen simply by switching out the material in the apron of your sink.
Update your cabinet hardware One of the easiest ways to refresh your kitchen cabinets and drawers is to switch up the hardware. Warm up your space with brass finishes or opt for another on-trend finish and shape.
Add open shelving Adding shelves is the perfect solution for a large blank wall. Once the shelves are installed, use them to display your glassware collection, beautiful china or colorful cookbooks. Shelves add storage and style to your kitchen.
Upgrade your fixtures
Splurge on a new appliance
A new color always feels like a huge change; and with very little supplies needed, painting is If you're really looking to one of the most cost-effective spruce up your kitchen, choose ways to improve your kitchen your most outdated appliance space. and spring for a new one. A new stainless-steel refrigerator Buy fresh flowers or sleek black cooktop might It may sound simple, but be all you need to revamp a fresh flowers bring life and a dull space. If you're on a tight pop of color into an otherwise budget, keep an eye out for dreary room. Make it part of sales throughout the year. your weekly routine to pick up fresh flowers to brighten your Paint the cabinets kitchen and your mood.
Bring out your inner chef by selecting fixtures like Kohler's Semi-Professional Kitchen Sink Faucet, which features a pull-down sprayhead with functions for rinsing, cleaning and fast filling of pitchers. Simply upgrading your kitchen faucet takes your kitchen to the next level. New fixtures enhance the style of your space while you enjoy the latest innovative feaor walls tures like water temperature Never underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint. memory.
how your kitchen feels. Warm lighting will make your kitchen appear brighter and more welcoming. You can easily shop around for new light fixtures and light switches at most home improvement stores and compare prices online to get the best deal.
You may have visions of your dream kitchen, but a full-fledged renovation isn't always in the budget. Play with lighting Follow these tips to satisfy Lighting plays a big role in your urge to upgrade.
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
REAL ESTATE
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2019 âœŚ PAGE 3B
Spring guide to a green, weed-free lawn BPT
Lawn trimmers are another popular tool for maintaining a yard. Again, start this piece of equipment up and see how well it runs. Add fresh line to the trimmer head so you get a clean cut. Finally, gather all other lawn-care tools and designate a convenient spot in the garage or shed to store them for easy access.
The rich green color, the soft feel beneath your feet and the iconic fresh-cut smell - thriving grass enhances your property in countless ways. Spring is the ideal time to focus on your lawn, so by taking steps now, you can enjoy lush, green grass for many months to come. These four areas will help you focus your efforts where they will Mowing advice make the biggest A great-looking, impact. weed-free lawn requires proper mowing. Experts agree you should mow Equipment prep The first step to a suc- as soon as the grass cessful spring lawn-care starts to grow to remove routine is to properly any brown tips and healthy prepare equipment. encourage After sitting in storage growth. Keep the grass during the cool months, equipment may need a mowed to 3-4 inches tuneup or replacement. tall. At that height, grass The lawn mower is shades out weeds, your go-to piece of develops deeper roots equipment. If it's gas- and cools the soil. Some powered, make sure grasses - such as fuel hasn't gone bad by Kentucky bluegrass, starting it up and letting fescues and perennial it run for a while. Add rye grass - grow faster fresh fuel as needed. in cool weather. That Additionally, consider means you mow more bringing your mower in frequently in spring and for a tuneup. For a mod- early summer to keep it est fee, a trained in the 3-4 inch range, mechanic will go over and less frequently in all the mower compo- mid to late summer and nents and make sure into fall. Want an insider tip to everything is in tip-top shape, including blade a great lawn? Leave sharpening so your clippings on the grass. mower can cut effi- As they break down, they return important ciently.
trace nutrients to the soil. If the grass is tall when mowed, spread out any large, heavy clumps so the clippings don't smother the lawn.
Essential treatments Seek out combination lawn-care products to get better results with less work. For example, just one application of Preen One Lawncare provides three treatments, so you save time while laying the foundation for a thick, green, weed-free lawn. First, the application prevents crabgrass seeds from sprouting and - unlike traditional weed and feed products - also kills crabgrass
seedlings up to 4 weeks after germination. Second, it kills dandelions plus 250 types of tough broadleaf lawn weeds on contact, down to the roots. Finally, it feeds the lawn continuously with a slowrelease 20-0-6 formula that promotes even greening and strong roots for maximum heat and drought resistance. Preen One Lawncare is recommended for many popular cool-season and warm-season grasses. Learn more at https://one.preen.com.
Watering guidelines Once your lawn starts growing, water becomes an essential
component for it to thrive. A healthy lawn needs about an inch of water per week to stay strong. This can be a combination of rainwater and water you apply yourself. To reach the entire root structure, water should soak the soil 6 to 8 inches deep. The morning is the best time to water grass. Temperatures and winds are typically lower in the morning, which means less evaporation. Strive to water grass before 10 a.m., but if you must do so later, wait until after 4 p.m., when the sun is less intense. How do you know the amount of water your lawn is getting? Invest
in a rain gauge to monitor precipitation. When using a sprinkler, set out a few empty tin cans in different places to measure water application. Unsure if you need to water? Try the footprinting test. Walk across your lawn and if your footprints are still visible after 30 seconds, it's time to water. Healthy, well-watered grass will stand back up quickly after you walk on it. Set the stage for great grass this spring with these four easy tasks. A little effort now will ensure a lush lawn through summer and beyond.
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THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2019 ✦ PAGE 5B
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REAL ESTATE
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
6 features luxury home buyers desire BPT
Modern trends in luxury homes are not just about location, size or specific decor, but reflecting the sophistication of their buyers. Buyers in today's luxury home market desire innovative features that enhance their quality of life, provide extra touches of relaxation and use smart technology to increase safety and security. Junaid Siddiqi, CFO for the developer of the exclusive Four Seasons Private Residences in Baltimore, offers some of the latest trends seen in today's luxury home designs. ■ Luxurious outdoor spaces Today's luxury home buyers want more than just a patio and pool. Outdoor spaces with unique, extensive seating areas for homeowners to relax and entertain are a
must. This might also mean specially designed water features like ponds or fountains to create a zen-like experience, plus a fire pit or even a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, for people to gather and socialize outdoors. ■ Bathrooms that rival a spa The finest luxury home bathrooms now resemble five-star resort spas. Desired elements might include a large standalone or sunken tub, walk-in showers — with enough space for two — complete with seating, radiated heated floors, towel warmers and even heated toilet seats. Bathrooms with a view are a recent trend, appealing to homebuyers in terms of their natural lighting and enhanced ambiance. Natural stone and wood elements create a beautiful effect seldom seen in bathrooms in the past.
■ Kitchens fit for a chef While top-notch kitchens have always been a must-have in the finest homes, modern state-of-the-art kitchens for the gourmet and gourmand alike require the most high-tech, commercial quality appliances. Would-be sommeliers look for a climate-controlled wine fridge or cellar, and java lovers want the highest quality coffee brewers or espresso machines. And the kitchens should look as great as they perform. "The Four Seasons Private Residences Baltimore, for example, are outfitted with designer chef kitchens, equipped with professional-grade Miele appliances," says Siddiqi. "Gorgeous waterfall marble countertops and the finest quality Eggersmann cabinetry complete the extraordinary kitchen experience."
■ Enhanced privacy, security and technology Luxury homeowners expect the best use of modern technology to ensure their safety and peace of mind, including everything from outdoor surveillance cameras with night vision, safe rooms, back-up generators and automated security systems. Smart home features that connect homeowners easily to their appliances, security and entertainment systems are also increasingly expected in luxury homes. ■ State-of-the-art gyms Fitness facilities in modern luxury homes are not just about the latest workout equipment. Today's fitness fanatic wants a flat screen TV for workout videos, built-in speakers for music plus a spa or indoor lap pool. "The recently completed club level at the Four
Seasons Private Residences Baltimore includes a private fitness and health center," Siddiqi notes, "plus a sauna with windows overlooking the sky-high panoramic view of Baltimore's Inner Harbor, and a heated indoor infinity pool designed by Counsilman-Hunsaker." ■ Unique design elements Today's luxury homebuyers are attracted by special design finishes such as textured accent walls using reclaimed wood, shiplap, stone, tile or brick. Even unique wallpaper with a European flare is showing up on the walls of modern luxury homes. "Open concept designs with high ceilings or skylights, large windows and a light, airy ambiance are on the top of homebuyers' wish lists," shares Siddiqi. Luxury home design
has reached new levels of innovation and sophistication. The Four Seasons Private Residences Baltimore was developed for those looking to experience a ground-breaking lifestyle in the heart of Baltimore. The luxury condominiums range from 900 to 7,000 square feet, each with unique finishes such as herringbone-walnut floors. "Every detail of the design, from the size of the outdoor balcony, the materials used in the kitchen, to the various offerings included on the club level were carefully researched, planned and executed by our team, and we are thrilled with the ultimate result," says Siddiqi. "I have traveled the world, and I can proudly say that this property shines for its sophisticated design and sleek aesthetic."
Customized communications the future for HOAs BPT
Without thoughtful communication, relationships between board members, residents and property managers of community associations — aka, HOAs — can go from smooth to contentious in a hurry. From singlefamily communities to high-rise condos, everyone has their own ideas about what's best for the neighborhood. But despite what most headlines will have you believe, the reality is that homeowner satisfaction in managed communities is reported to be at an all-time high, and embracing the right communication style to connect with their community is a key reason why. Savvy HOA boards accept that resident age and lifestyle require them to customize their communications and work with property management companies to deliver them through new channels
that reflect what their residents prefer, marking a new era in resident-management relations. By identifying trends within communities, HOA boards in conjunction with property managers are employing more effective tactics to convey important information, make decisions and even defuse tension.
nity initiatives. The use of digital media lives up to its name, as previously hard-to-reach residents are now being brought into the fold to create richer living experiences and more representative communities. "Community relations, like technology, should evolve with the user," said Alan Missen, CIO of FirstService Residential, the country's leading property management Sharing in bits company. "People's wideand bytes: spread use of digital platforms as primary conduits Millennial messaging for daily information and For example, younger interaction must be generations are more reflected in a managed receptive to messages community's communicadelivered through digital tion network to create media, online property more touchpoints of management platforms engagement among resiand mobile apps. In high- dents, boards and staff." rise communities where millennials are prevalent, On-demand association boards are communication tools using these channels to Single-family or masterconnect with their tech- planned communities are savvy residents. Apart where more established from distributing impor- residents, mainly working tant building information, professionals and famiboard members are also lies, call home. They tend able to get better buy-in to prefer email or texting and feedback on commu- over in-person meetings,
with the added option to source information themselves. The community management industry is responding with innovative tools that allow these self-directed individuals to engage on their own terms. One of the biggest markers of progress in the industry is the increasing adoption of online resident portals. FirstService Residential CONNECT is an online property management platform that allows residents and boards to communicate directly with one another and with the community manager without being disruptive to any party. Residents can check account balances, reserve amenities, manage visitor access and track package deliveries. Online property management platforms also enhance board members' ability to spot and respond to operational needs and make improvements while reducing costs and delivering added value to their community, which ultimately leads to increased resident satisfaction and sup-
port. Keeping traditional communication There is no denying that growing numbers of mature residents are "plugged in" and finding their voice in the digital age. Nevertheless, more traditional forms of communication, including emails, physical mail and in-person consultations, are still preferred by this generation. While face-to-face conversations are welcome, the pitfall is they can open the door to confrontations just as easily. Understanding this, community board members, with the assistance of property managers, are increasingly employing personalized communications techniques to navigate difficult personalities in the face of such interactions. For instance, summarizing a complaint in writing after a resident airs their grievances can help them feel heard. Laying out the logic behind a decision can help residents feel more comfortable with the process, even if they don't like the
decision itself. These small changes are much more effective in managing relationships than simply saying, "Thanks for your comment." As HOA boards focus more on these kinds of interpersonal tactics, they've seen fewer disgruntled residents and more small issues remain small issues. The key is to communicate directly, plainly and sincerely. Becoming an interpreter Forward-thinking HOA board members and community managers say effective communication is all about speaking the same language as their residents. That means delivering messages in a way they'll respond to and be comfortable with. By mirroring preferred communication channels, association boards and residential managers are changing the game to give everyone a voice and create stronger communities. For more insight about HOA communications, visit fsresidential.com/corporate/hoacommunications.
REAL ESTATE
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2019 âœŚ PAGE 7B
5 quick home fixes to rest easy BPT
Ongoing, routine upkeep is important to ensure the house stays running. While it may seem easier to put off tasks for a later date, checking off some smaller chores now can help avoid incidents or costly repairs later. "Home maintenance can be easy to overlook when the day-to-day gets busy, but it is important to always make time for safetyrelated tasks," said Tarsila Wey, director of marketing for First Alert. "Simple steps such as installing and maintaining carbon monoxide alarms only take a few minutes, and are crucial to keep loved ones safe from the deadly gas." Amp up your home safety with the following quick tips: 1. Invest in light timers. Installing light timers for lights inside and outside your house can give the appearance of being home, whether you're away on vacation or you've stepped out for the night. Timers only take minutes to install and can make a world of difference when viewed from the street. By using a light timer instead of leaving a light or two on when away, you can save energy and money while still deterring any potential thieves.
2. Clean the gutters. With the end of winter storms come outside chores, and clearing out your gutters is important to keep your home safe. If the gutters are too full, your home can suffer from water damage to the roof and water can pour over the gutters, putting other parts of your home at risk. While you are checking the gutters, inspect your shingles to make sure they are still in good shape. This can help prevent future leakage during a spring shower.
3. Install carbon monoxide alarms. Known as "the silent killer," carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless and colorless gas, making it impossible to detect without a CO alarm. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates there are more than 80,000 incidents per year. The most important step is to have CO alarms in your home - and enough of them. CO alarms should be installed on every level of the home, including the basement, and in all bedrooms or sleeping areas.
and where to meet outside the home, is crucial. Other incidents may occur as well when you need to be prepared to stay in the home, such as a natural disaster or power outage. Having a plan in place for what to do if such an event occurs, and knowing 5. Establish a family where in the home is the 4. Store valuables. Having a safe at home emergency plan. safest location, can be critKnowing - and practic- ical if an incident occurs. can prove a wise investment when it comes to ing - what to do in the natural disasters. Through event of an emergency is To learn more about fire or flood, a safe can important. Ensuring loved help protect important ones are prepared for a home safety, visit documents, family photos fire, and know to call 911 FirstAlert.com. CO alarms should be battery-powered or hardwired with battery back-up. First Alert offers a variety of alarms to help ensure your family is protected, including a tabletop alarm with a 10-year sealed battery and digital display to see detected levels in parts per million.
and keepsakes, as well as jewelry and other valuables. For the ultimate protection, look for a safe that is both fire resistant and waterproof (not just water "resistant"). Be sure to stow the combination in a secure place and share it only with trusted family members and friends.
Real estate financing: The 3 main factors lenders consider BPT
Sponsored ad content from Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc.
Buying a new home is an exciting milestone. While finding the right home is essential, the most important step toward homeownership is making sure you're ready to apply for a home loan. Applying for a mortgage is not something people do every day, so it's natural to have questions. There are several factors that help determine a loan decision, along with strategies you can follow to help position yourself for the best loan at the best rates. Angela Patterson, Vanderbilt Mortgage director of Credit and Credit Services, explains the three factors that have the biggest influence on any loan decision.
Credit Your credit is a critical factor for lenders making a loan decision. They will learn more about your credit history and credit score by pulling a credit report. A credit report shows how well an applicant has repaid any loan or credit obligation. Usually lenders look at the most recent pay history and look for debts with a high balance. While score is important and will most likely have an impact on the interest rate offered, the detailed pay history plays a significant role in whether an applicant is approved or declined. Does this mean if you have a past blemish on your credit you will be denied a home loan? Not necessarily. There are many factors lenders consider. "It is very important to our team to call every applicant," says Patterson. "Our customers are more than just a credit score. We want to understand their journey and provide the financing program that best fits their situation."
Income and debts
Next steps
Determining your ability to repay the debt on time each month is important to a lender when making a loan decision. A debt-to-income ratio, or DTI, is one of the tools lenders use to determine your ability to pay. Two things need to be calculated to know this percent: monthly income and the existing credit obligations that are paid monthly. Lenders typically use verified gross monthly income, your pay before taxes, when determining an ability to repay. Gross monthly income includes a paycheck from an employer, plus any money you may receive in government aid, child support or pensions. After totaling gross income, the lender will need to determine the amount of debt the applicant pays toward each month. Typically, lenders use a credit report to identify the applicant's debts. Some examples include car payments, student loans and credit card balances.
Understanding these three factors and knowing where your personal finances fit within them is important when applying for a home loan. While there are other things lenders consider, making sure you are financially fit in these three areas is a great start to getting ready to buy a home.
Employment Employment is another important factor that goes into a loan decision. Lenders will look at the type and length of employment. If a person is selfemployed, the applicant will need to prove steady income over a two-year period. Consistent and non-temporary employment are seen favorably by most lenders. This means being regularly employed for two or more years. Consistent employment shows a lender stability in an applicant's source of income, which is an indicator of their ability to repay the loan. How does the lender learn about your employment history? Typically, they will request a Verification of Employment from your employer and will consider the information provided in the loan decision.
About Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. is a national housing lender that specializes in financing manufactured homes. In business for more than 40 years, the company currently services
more than 200,000 home loans and works hard to tailor loans to each family's needs. Vanderbilt has an A+ grade from the Better Business Bureau and is a Berkshire Hathaway company. For more information, visit VMFHomeLoan.com. NMLS Disclosure Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc., 500 Alcoa Trail, Maryville, TN 37804, 865-380-3000, NMLS #1561, (http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/) , AZ Lic. #BK-0902616, Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license, GA Residential Mortgage (Lic. #6911), MT Lic. #1561, Licensed by PA Dept. of Banking.
PAGE 8B âœŚ WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2019
REAL ESTATE
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
Ways to customize a bathroom space BPT
Bathrooms are one of the most frequented rooms in a home. It's where you start and end your day, and can be a room to relax and recharge in. This special space should reflect your personality and unique preferences. If you want to update your bathroom with customized features that suit your personality, consider the following five ideas: Lighting: Bathroom lighting should be functional and fashionable, enabling you to get ready for the day while also allowing
you to relax in the evening, for example, while taking a calming bath. General lighting provides the bulk of illumination in the bathroom space, but consider adding accent and task lighting for more flexibility. For example, wall sconces can provide extra light for personal grooming tasks while a strategically placed pendant light provides an adjustable accent glow by the tub. Faucets: Both the sink and bath faucet can add style and functionality to the bathroom. KOHLER's Components Collection of interchangeable
Five top tips for low-maintenance landscaping engine so you can just A lush lawn and gar- turn the key and go. den boosts your home's 3. Choose perennials curb appeal, but it also Flower beds are the takes a lot of your free time. You want to spend perfect complement to a that time enjoying the lush, green lawn. Plants space, not taking care of like coneflowers, blackit. The solution? A few eyed Susans and low-maintenance strateRussian sage come back gies to keep your yard looking great while year after year and don't maximizing your relax- need to be replanted. BPT
ation time. 1. Install an automatic irrigation system With an automatic irrigation system, you don't even need to be home to water your lawn and garden. You can spend all that extra time kicked back on your front porch enjoying the view of a luscious green lawn. Automatic irrigation systems are also costeffective - providing water to your lawn exactly where and when it's needed. Random dry patches or wet sidewalks and driveways will be a thing of the past. 2. Use high-quality equipment When purchasing your next riding or walkbehind lawn mower, take time to make an informed decision. The engine is the most important part of the mower. Keep in mind, KOHLER engines are built to last, with many models having commercial-grade components. Additional features will help your mower to maintain engine speed in tough conditions and eliminate the need to prime or choke the
4. Strategically placed mulch Mulch is one of the best investments you can make in your yard. When it breaks down over time, mulch fertilizes your plants and can prevent weeds. It adds a pleasant aroma to your outdoor spaces and doesn't require watering. 5. Follow lawn care best practices Save yourself the extra hassle by following basic lawn care best practices. For example, keep your grass-cutting blades sharp, avoid cutting the grass too short and mow when the grass is dry. Additionally, grasscycling - leaving grass clippings on the lawn after cutting - helps fertilize the lawn and creates less work for you. There may be no such thing as a maintenancefree lawn, but choosing the right tools and techniques can make your life a lot easier. Follow these tips and learn more at KohlerEngines.com.
spouts and handles, as well as bathroom accessories, offers a wide range of timeless, modern options that allow you to create a personalized faucet configuration tailor-made for any environment and decor. Choose your spout, then handle and finally finish - in a variety of offerings for an ideal update that suits your design ideals. Hardware: Vanities serve a utilitarian purpose in the bathroom, offering storage necessary for bathing, grooming and more. The vanity also is a focal point of the room, becoming a key
part of the overall aesthetic. If your vanity is dated, consider updating before replacing. Hardware is one affordable option for an instant refresh. Remove old, dingy knobs and handles and replace with modern ones found at your local home improvement store for a fast, notable makeover. Flooring: You probably don't put much thought into your bathroom floor, but it offers a wonderful opportunity for a refresh. Dated linoleum or tile can easily be replaced with modern options that are sure to
impress. Tile is always a good choice for the bathroom. Ceramic and marble tiles come in every color imaginable, and can be laid in various patterns to add visual interest to the space. What's more, consider adding heated elements under the tile for a luxurious touch that keeps toes toasty. These five simple updates will have a dramatic impact on the look and feel of your bathroom. They will help you create a personalized space so you feel comfortable and at home every time you use it.