Real Estate Nov 2018

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Wednesday Nov. 28, 2018

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

5 tips for an efficient and safe moving day

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Trusted provider Penske Truck Rental offers clean, reliable,

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oving to a new home can call for the coor-

well-maintained vehicles, with a range of available packing

dination of a lot of details. That’s especially

and moving tools and the peace of mind that comes with

true if you’re a do-it-yourselfer who’s rent-

24-hour roadside assistance.

ing a truck rather than hiring a moving company.

Though the U.S. Census Bureau estimates the aver-

3. Optimize tools. Use dollies, hand trucks, harnesses and/ or multiple people to lift boxes that weigh more than 50

age American changes homes 11.4 times in a lifetime, many

pounds. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you may take pride in

of us never take time to think about the potential safety

being able to handle any chore yourself, but you need to

hazards involved. Usually we’re way more focused on the

remember you’ll be self-sufficient no longer if you sustain

challenges of figuring out all the logistics, packing up our

an injury from trying to be superhuman.

possessions in logical fashion and the psychological adjustment of having a new place of residence.

4. Lift correctly. When picking up anything even moderately heavy, avoid back injuries by keeping your back verti-

Still, it’s important to take a moment to think about

cal and your chest forward. Draw the item as close to your

best practices for the safety of you and your family as you

body as possible while bending at the knees and lifting with

plan your move. Consider taking the following steps for a

your legs, avoiding bending horizontally as you straighten.

safe and organized moving process.

5. Be aware of obstacles. When moving items out of your 1. Assign roles. Organize your packing and loading crew so

house and into your vehicle, watch for items that could

everyone knows their role. Your work will be much more

trip you or get in your way, such as low-hanging obstacles,

efficient - and you won’t get in each other’s way - if your

ground protrusions or surfaces that are wet, slick or un-

friends and family members are each assigned a task ac-

even. Wear close-fitting clothing that can’t be snagged and

cording to their physical capabilities. As a side note, you

choose durable footwear that offers support and traction.

may wish to keep small children off-site so the adults can focus on the often-physical work at hand.

The DIY moving process need not be difficult or

risky if you plan ahead and take a few precautions. Ask 2. Choose a reputable rental company. Secure your mov-

Penske Truck Rental for other tips on making your next

ing truck from a reputable dealer, then follow its specific

DIY move smooth, organized and worry-free.

instructions for safely packing and driving the vehicle.

Page 2B • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018

Real Estate

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

Tips for embracing the benefits of natural light

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ith daylight saving time in full effect, sunlight can be harder to come by. According to a recent study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), humans spend an average of 90 percent of their days indoors, so savoring every opportunity for natural sunlight is more important than ever, especially during winter months. However, more time spent indoors and longer nighttime hours can mean fewer opportunities to soak up the benefits of natural light. But did you know that you can enjoy all the perks of natural lighting through simply upgrading or adding windows into your home?

The health benefits of natural light

When building new or completing a renovation project, consider adding more or larger windows to increase the amount of natural light allowed into a home and to enjoy the many health benefits that come along with it. Creating opportunities for increased natural light in your home provides the benefits of vitamin D, while decreasing direct exposure to the sun and potential sunrelated cancer risks. Additionally, according to experts, sunlight can reduce blood pressure, help us cope with anxiety and stress, and protect against the effects of seasonal affective disorder felt most commonly in the winter. Allowing natural light into homes also helps to regulate circadian rhythms and sleep cycles, providing more energy and better focus. One study published in an online supplement to the journal Sleep even showed that people exposed to more natural light during the day were able to sleep an average of 46 minutes more each night.

Location, location, location!

As you plan, it’s important to consider the direction your windows and patio doors face, to take full advantage of the available natural light. For example, south-facing windows will allow for the most winter sunlight, but little direct sun during the summer. Mean-

while, north-facing windows admit relatively even, natural light, producing little glare and almost no unwanted summer heat gain. Finally, east- and west-facing windows admit good daylight in the morning and evening, respectively. However, these directions could create a glare and admit heat during the summer and contribute little solar heat during the winter.

The energy efficiency of modern windows

Exposure to natural light through windows goes hand-in-hand with energy efficiency at home. Even though they may supply sufficient light, older windows - especially those with multiple panes of glass, as op-

posed to one large pane - are notorious for air leakage and allow heat to escape the home while letting in cold air. Homeowners who find themselves in the market for new windows should look for Energy Star-rated options, as well as windows that have argon or krypton gas fills, and are made with special Low-E glass coatings.

You’ve seen the light, now it’s time to make a change

Has your view on windows and their importance changed? Consider window options from quality manufacturers like Ply Gem, that have a variety of window style options, customizable sizes and plenty of energyefficient benefits and certifications. With Ply Gem Windows, you won’t have to compromise a large window size for optimal performance, providing plenty of natural light alongside long-lasting energy efficiency and durability.

If you decide to install or upgrade windows, keep in mind the following helpful tips: * To maximize daylight, comfort and energy efficiency, be sure to identify the Energy Star climate zone you live in and select a window that meets your zone requirements. * To determine your home’s orientation and sun exposure, try using the compass app on your smartphone. * Hire a reputable contractor to help you select the right windows for your home and to ensure your windows are installed according to local building codes.

For more information about windows, energy efficiency and the importance of natural light, visit www. plygem.com.

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

Real Estate

Wednesday, Nov. 28 2018 • Page 3B

Winter weatherproofing: Preparing your home to stay safe and save energy

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he heat will certainly be on this winter. With winter storms hitting many parts of the country early in the winter season, furnaces are plugging away, causing heating bills across the country to increase. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the typical U.S. family spends at least $2,200 per year on energy bills - with nearly half of that going toward heating and cooling.

To help homeowners combat the cost of heating a home during the winter months, Valerie Mastalka, a home heating and energy efficiency expert at Lennox, suggests looking at areas around the house to keep the warm air in and the cool air out.

“There are many simple, inexpensive ways consumers can save money on utility bills this winter, and still stay warm and cozy as temperatures begin to drop,” said Mastalka. “By taking the initiative to weatherproof their homes before the start of the cold weather season, homeowners will be able to enjoy a warmer and more energy-efficient house. The little time it takes to make a few quick checks and adjustments can yield dividends in savings and comfort in the long run.”

Repair the roof. It’s important to inspect the roof to make sure shingles are in place to prevent water from seeping inside the house. Mastalka emphasizes that it can be dangerous to be on the roof once cold weather ensues, so check it out before the onset of winter. If large gaps are found, hire a professional roofing company to repair the problem areas. In addition, avoid covering roof vents or turbines for the winter as this will prevent air from circulating properly through the attic and will reduce the overall energy efficiency of the home.

Dodge the drafts. Air leaks caused by cracks or holes around windows and doors can enable warm indoor air to escape and cold outside air to seep in, preventing you from maintaining a consistent indoor temperature. To identify air leaks in outside-facing walls or doors, try holding a candle

near suspect areas to reveal drafts and then seal leaks with caulk or weather stripping.

Mind the (chimney) gaps. To prevent warm indoor air from escaping the home, Mastalka reminds homeowners to keep fireplace dampers closed when not in use; however, always make sure the damper is fully opened before starting a fire. Look for any gaps in the mortar between bricks, as they can allow moisture to build up and compromise the roof’s integrity. Also check for soot accumulation in the chimney, and if needed, hire a professional chimney sweep to perform a thorough cleaning before the start of winter.

Don’t forget the furnace. Mastalka recommends having your furnace thoroughly inspected by a certified technician.

In addition, changing furnace air filters at least once a month and vacuuming the heater vents in the living areas of the home will help keep your heating system clean and running efficiently. If your furnace is more than 15 years old, Lennox recommends upgrading to a high efficiency system, such as one of its variable-speed furnaces, which can save hundreds of dollars on utility costs.

Attend to the attic. The attic is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to heat loss. If you are experiencing high heating bills and having difficulty keeping your home warm, it could be time to add additional insulation to the attic. Mastalka says that attic insulation should be approximately five inches deep. Homeowners can hire a professional or add insulation themselves with portable blowing units available for rental at home improvement stores.

By making a few minor adjustments around the home, homeowners can help lessen safety concerns and reduce the amount of wasted energy - all while staying comfortable during the chilly season. To learn more about home energy efficiency and how you can save money on utility bills during the winter months, visit www.lennox.com/lennox-life or www. facebook.com/Lennox.

Page 4B • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018

Real Estate

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

How to put your own touch on modern bathroom design

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ome design continues to evolve but one element remains true: The bathroom is often the oasis within the home. A secluded bathroom is an ideal spot to experiment with modern designs without undergoing a major renovation. Below are a few tips on how to incorporate contemporary elements into an existing bath.

Accessorize simply

Choose simple and polished accessories that complement the aesthetic of the room. Incorporate sleek, angular towel bars or an elegant robe hook to create a clean layout that is functional and design forward. Incorporating modest touches that fit your personal style, such as striking rose quartz crystals on your shelves, will transform the space into a serene oasis.

the existing shower wall and plumbing. An adjustable hand shower on the column allows the added benefit of a slide bar and overhead shower in one.

Engage your senses

In modern design, creating a contemporary space is about more than just how the room looks. When homeowners were asked to share the most important characteristic of their design purchases, the scent of the home ranked among the top five qualities from responses in the bi-annual Delta Faucet Homeowner Index. To truly complete the modern look and feel of your bathroom, skip the traditional candle and consider adding elements such as an aromatherapy diffuser to customize your space with different scent combinations.

Add warmth with texture

A modern look doesn’t need to be synonymous with sharp lines and monochromatic colors. Incorporating softer materials such as a plush rug, textured bath towels or handwoven wicker baskets will provide contrast to angular accents, bringing a sense of warmth and tranquility to the room.

Create a timeless aesthetic

Ensure your space remains modern for years to come by installing timeless fixtures.

Inspired by the modern styles found throughout European homes, the Delta Emerge Shower Column couples bold lines with impactful design to deliver a luxurious, customizable shower experience. Simply mount it to

For more design inspiration, visit DeltaFaucet.com/InspiredLiving.

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

Real Estate

Wednesday, Nov. 28 2018 • Page 5B

4 Insurance myths and misconceptions dispelled

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here are several myths and misconceptions that exist when it comes to insurance. For example, true or false? It costs more to insure red cars.

The answer is false. Car color has no impact on insurance premiums; however, factors like your driving history, annual mileage driven, the cost of your vehicle and other things will affect how much you’ll pay for insurance.

Insurance is one of the most useful investments you can make to help safeguard your belongings and financial assets, but it’s important to know what you’re purchasing. Here are four things you should know about auto, homeowners or renters insurance policies to ensure adequate protection in the event of an unforeseen or unexpected loss.

even objects falling from the sky like airplane debris.

It also provides liability coverage if visitors suffer injuries on your property, and it can extend to events off the premises as well like if personal property is stolen from your vehicle.

“Generally speaking, homeowners insurance is designed to help you rebuild your home and replace personal property if it is damaged or stolen,” says Christopher O’Rourke, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “However, you may need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy to protect your home from floods, because these events are usually not covered by a homeowners policy.”

Homeowners should contact the National Flood Insurance Program to inquire about coverage for floods, rising tides or storm surges.

3. Myth: Renters insurance is unnecessary Renters insurance is very affordable; however, only 41 percent of renters purchase it. And without renters insurance, you’ll have to pay out of pocket if your personal belongings are damaged in a fire or are stolen.

1. Myth: Auto insurance covers all vehicle-related issues

Most states require drivers to carry auto liability insurance. This coverage provides financial protection if you’re found to be legally responsible for causing injury to another person or their property. It doesn’t cover damage to your vehicle, however, or items stolen from your vehicle, or damage from a storm or vandalism.

Collision insurance covers you while your vehicle is in motion and you crash into another vehicle or with a fixed object, like a pothole, guardrail or light post.

This coverage is typically required by a lender when you finance a vehicle.

Comprehensive insurance is coverage that protects your vehicle when it is damaged while not in motion. Examples of this could include vandalism, theft or an act of Mother Nature like a hailstorm or fire.

“When financing a vehicle, the lender may require you to carry this coverage until it is paid off. If your vehicle is older, however, and it has been completely paid off then comprehensive insurance may not be the right coverage because a vehicle’s value decreases with age. Consider whether the savings of not having comprehensive insurance are enough to offset the risk of potentially having a large repair or replacement bill,” says Kevin Quinn, Vice President of Auto Claims at Mercury Insurance.

2. Misconception: Homeowners insurance protects against damage from all natural disasters

Homeowners insurance covers losses or damages to your house and personal belongings in the event of a fire, sudden flooding caused by a broken pipe, theft and

“Unfortunately, your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover any of your personal belongings and it won’t provide liability protection if a lawsuit is brought against you because a visitor slips, falls and injures themselves inside your rental unit,” says O’Rourke. “Renters may not be responsible for repairing the home they live in, but there’s always a chance their possessions and valuables will need to be replaced if they are damaged or stolen, so purchasing a renters insurance policy is a smart way to provide financial security.”

4. Misconception: Your auto insurance policy provides coverage whenever you are driving your vehicle

A personal auto insurance policy protects drivers in case they’re involved in a collision. However, there are certain situations where more coverage is needed.

“With the advent of the gig-economy, many people are turning to ride-hailing jobs, where they can be their own boss and set their own hours,” says Quinn.

“Without the proper insurance, however, they’re putting themselves and others at risk if they get into a collision, because your personal auto policy doesn’t cover you when you use your vehicle for commercial purposes. This includes driving for Uber or Lyft, or even pizza delivery.

“Mercury provides ride-hailing insurance, but if it isn’t currently available in your area or you’re using your vehicle to make money in another capacity like delivering pizzas, you’ll want to purchase a commercial auto policy.”

Insurance is a sound investment, but can be complicated, so it’s always a good idea to speak to an insurance agent. These highly trained professionals can provide expert advice and guidance to help ensure you are adequately protected.

Real Estate

Tips for using metals in home decor Page 6B • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018

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hile trends in home decor often change, there is one constant design feature that continues to shine, literally: metals.

Today, homeowners can find creative ways to incorporate a regal touch that produces a timeless look with modern appeal.

Take the Temperature

A first step in implementing metallic decor is understanding the temperature of the metals. Think of brass, copper and gold as warm, while silver and aluminum are cooler, and cast iron or black metals are neutral. When you couple up a warm metal with a cool metal, you’re golden. As a thought starter, step into the kitchen and balance copper or gold fixtures with stainless steel appliances.

Heavy Metal Mixing

It can be daunting to mix metals the right way, but understanding general rules can open the doors to creative approaches. A key tip is to avoid mixing the same color family - such as gold and brass, or nickel and silver.

Rather, choose one metal that can serve as the dominant and another to complement it - remembering your temperatures. And, don’t be afraid to blend the same metal with different finishings to diversify the theme and pull a room together.

The Gilded Age of Flooring

Achieving the golden look isn’t done through metallic finishes alone.

One way to bring the shine to a room is with flooring like Lumber Liquidators’ Gilded Reserve Chestnut, which reveals hints of a glimmering gold stain through its lightly wirebrushed chestnut base. Pairing decorations and fixtures with the sophisticated backdrop of a unique floor design creates an elegant space that’s rich in style.

Add Elements of Luxury

A smart way to use metals is to go for the subtle shine. Simple and strategic touches of metal can bring a big impact, such as in picture frames, drawer pulls or door handles, and sink fixtures. You can also add a bit of regal to a room with accents on furniture or other fabric items such as pillowcases or throws, and kitchenware on display.

A Gold Medal for Metal

Metallics in home decor are as durable and lasting as the elements themselves. Incorporating the shine of brass, the sleek of silvers and the burnish of bronze can give your home an opulent and refined look.

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

Real Estate

Wednesday, Nov. 28 2018 • Page 7B

Five Show House Trends to Inspire Your Renovation

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5 design show trends to inspire your 2019 renovation

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hen it’s time to remodel and renovate your home, you’re no doubt on the lookout for the freshest takes in design and color choices, so you can ensure your renovation is a lasting investment.

To go about your home refresh in a thoughtful way, it can help to turn to the top experts in the industry for their ideas and insight. With more than 145 years of leadership in the kitchen and bath space, Kohler Co. has worked side by side with the top designers to showcase the most inspired designs for the kitchen, bath and other areas of the home.

To help you come up with looks you’ll love for years, here are five head-turning trends that led the way in 2018.

Make a statement with plants: Humidity-loving plants have long added a soft contrast to the traditional hard bath surfaces. Designers are going big with the plant concept by incorporating what’s called a living wall in this room - a wall that’s essentially a floor-to-ceiling panel of things that grow. Pairing the lush greenery and soft blooms with statement fixtures - such as the curved shape of Kohler’s Veil Trough Vessel Bathroom Sink - will make your space into the perfect place to retreat and take time out for self-care.

Staying in that vein of incorporating nature-inspired elements, designers are also incorporating new natural materials like wood and stone into kitchen and bath design.

Shifts in the color story: The bright whites that have dominated design books this past decade won’t be gone, but they are starting to make their retreat. In 2018 we saw an abundance of earthy neutrals to choose from, like stone grays, blush pinks and warm terracotta - colors that inspire

warm feelings and connections to nature. Where white was once uber-trendy in cabinet design, the script has flipped to deep, moody velvet-inspired hues like emerald green, burgundy, navy and black.

Going for the gold: When it comes to fixtures, chrome dominated style books for years. But now, designers are turning toward gold, copper and bronze fixtures at a increasing rate. With a variety of finishes to choose from, from gleaming rose gold to a burnished copper, opting for warm toned fixtures is easy way to add texture and interest to any room.

Next-level entertaining: The idea of the home as a haven is catching on. One concept to consider is turning that extra room or basement into an intimate, inviting space tailor made for unwinding and entertaining. To create that escapist vibe that calls back to the speak-easy, go with dark-hued walls and cabinetry to create an eye-catching contrast with pops of colorful art and gleaming fixtures. To lighten up the somber tone, playful designs like Kohler’s Artifacts Gentleman’s Bar Faucet adds a touch of retro charm.

High function, stylish design: The kitchen is the busiest room in the house, which is why homeowners welcome new ideas in hard-working, durable solutions that are also aesthetically pleasing. Incorporating design into the kitchen has never been easier with options like Kohler’s Purist Kitchen Faucet - a design that works seamlessly with any style/aesthetic/taste. Adding a secondary island to the kitchen will keep all your gear ultra-organized; and adding sinks to one or both islands can make food prep a snap even with multiple cooks in the kitchen.

To discover more design ideas to inspire your upcoming renovations, visit kohler.com.

Page 8B • Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018

Real Estate

THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS

‘Tis the season to get the home ready for holiday entertaining Smart tips to prepare the kitchen and dining room for holiday entertaining

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s the year winds down, social calendars fill up with merriment-filled gatherings among friends and family. When hosting a seasonal gathering at home, being proactive can help streamline tasks and reduce stress. From whipping up a feast to toasting in the New Year, here are five ideas for getting the heart of the home - the kitchen and dining

Stock all washing spaces

Baking, cooking and entertaining tasks generate dirty dishes for days, so get wash spaces ready with fresh sponges, plenty of soap, drying racks and towels. Rotate between washing and cooking to eliminate a big mess at the end of entertaining. To ease the task of hand-washing large dishes, consider installing a sizable sink that also updates the kitchen’s style.

The handcrafted Pekoe apron-front kitchen sink from American Standard has a generously-sized single basin to accommodate large pots and pans; plus, the 18-gauge stainless steel material is stain-, heat- and chip-resistant.

Create clean, comfortable spaces

spaces - ready for holiday entertaining.

Simplify measurements

Chopped veggies and pre-measured ingredients can streamline any cooking adventure and save precious time. Fill the fridge and pantry with ready-to-go items as much as possible and consider smart kitchen enhancements that make measuring a breeze. For example, the Beale MeasureFill touch kitchen faucet from American Standard provides an adjustable set amount of water on demand, giving holiday cooks the precise measurement faster than using conventional measuring cups. Plus, the easy touch on/off feature is ideal when hands are full or dirty; to operate, just touch it with the wrist or the back of the hand.

Prepare meal necessities

To create a holiday table worthy of a magazine spread, prepare all the plates, platters and servingware needed beforehand. This is a good time to take stock of place settings, too. (Important tip: Have an extra setting or two available for last-minute RSVPs or unexpected guests.) Whether it’s a buffet-style meal or multi-course sit-down dinner, make sure to have enough serving utensils for everything on the menu, from appetizers to desserts.

Clear clutter from common spaces where guests will be congregating for refreshments, meals and more.

Focus on the dining room where guests will toast to a merry holiday, but don’t forget the kitchen for visitors who might want to pitch in or provide good cheer and holiday conversation during last-minute meal preparations. Add extra chairs and seating as well as leaves to extend tables so there’s plenty of room for everyone and all the delicious foods that will be served. The goal is for people to feel comfortably cozy without being overcrowded.

Manage multitasking

Multitasking is a must for big entertaining events. While appetizers are in the oven, wash a few dishes. When the main course is simmering, mingle with guests. To maximize time in the kitchen, think about enhancements that allow multitasking with ease, such as the K7 semi-professional faucet with foot control technology from GROHE. Busy or dirty hands? No problem. Turn the water flow on and off with a tap of the foot on an activation plate installed discreetly in the toe space of the kitchen cabinet. This allows more to get done easily, while helping prevent the spread of germs.

Holiday entertaining is simplified with a few modern home updates and smart cooking tricks. By focusing on the heart of the home, everyone will have a joyous season - especially the host or hostess.