Thursday April. 27 2017
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
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Jadyn Lane property offers spacious living Buena Vista Realty has 4-bedroom home in Clovis listed for $240,000
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BY THE STAFF OF THE NEWS hen looking for a new home, one thing to consider is the neighborhood. On a recent sunny Saturday afternoon this month, you’d see families walking down the street, kids on bicycles, even a jogger or two passing by. Does this sound like the ideal location for you and your family? If so, you should take a look at the house for sale at 2221 Jadyn Lane. Located on the east side of Clovis, just south of 21st Street, it’s a neighborhood full of manicured lawns, beautiful brick homes and now a four-bedroom home just waiting for new owners. This 2,013-square-foot home was built in 2011 and still looks brand new. The entrance foyer is inviting and spacious and opens up to a living room that is perfect for entertaining with 10foot ceilings and windows on each side of the fireplace that look out onto the spacious covered patio. According to listing agent Lori Bohm, the modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances including the refrigerator with French doors, bottom pull-out freezer and extra pull-out drawer for snacks, deli meats and other quick access items. The pantry, granite countertops and ample cabinets and counter space make this a perfect place for the family cook or for putting together a gourmet feast for friends. The kitchen opens up to a dining area and the large living room. The floor plan in this four-bedroom home allows for a private master suite that includes a spacious bath with a double sink vanity, whirlpool tub and beautifully tiled shower. The walkin closet has room for all your clothes, shoes and plenty for additional storage. There is also an entrance from the master suite to the back patio. The other bedrooms each have a large closet, plenty of natural light and access to the large second bathroom.
One of the bedrooms would make a great home office. The laundry room is loaded with cabinet space and a counter for folding clothes or maybe craft work. The washer and dryer are included as part of the sale. From the laundry room, you can enter the large, three-car garage. There is plenty of room for yard and lawn equipment, a freezer or workbench. The backyard is the ideal space for BBQs and outdoor entertaining. The covered patio is large enough for comfortable outdoor furniture so you can sit, relax, and enjoy a tall cold glass of your favorite beverage. In one corner of the yard there is a built-in fire pit. The price has been reduced on this home, and it is now listed for $240,000. Bohm is a qualifying broker with Buena Vista Realty in Portales. She has an extensive background in real estate, having obtained her New Mexico Brokers License in 2003. She specializes in both listing and selling single-family homes in Portales and Clovis. She is also a member of the National, State and Local Board of Realtors. “When listing homes I always complete a Comparative Market Analysis using similar homes recently sold as well as current listings to come up with a competitive price,” Bohm said. “I will discuss listing fees and approximate closing costs so that you can be prepared for what your net-out on the sale should be. I post all of my listings on the local MLS, Zillow and Trulia sites as well as our company’s website.” Bohm and other agents with Buena Vista Realty cooperate fully with other local Realtors in the area to get the most exposure available for your home. Buena Vista Realty has numerous listings in Portales, Clovis and the surrounding communities and has five brokers available to help you find just the right home or help you sell your continued on page 5C
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Real Estate
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
Make a striking focal point the foundation of your spa-like bathroom
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merican homeowners’ desire for spa-like bathrooms shows no signs of waning, says the latest Design Trends report by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). From freestanding bath tubs and floating vanities to LED lighting and soothing color schemes, some of the most-requested bathroom renovations focus on creating the atmosphere of luxury and calm found in world-class spas. With the average mid- to upscale bathroom remodeling costing in the range of $30,000, homeowners are also looking for the most cost-effective way to create that spa-like feeling. Many are opting to build their bathroom renovations around a focal point, such as a freestanding tub or luxury shower, and round out the effect with more modest accessories and fixtures. Choosing a focal point Homeowners are choosing to install freestanding soaking tubs in their master bathrooms, in particular, to create an exclusive sanctuary of relaxation. In fact, in 2016 half of NKBA members were asked to install freestanding tubs in bathroom remodels, and 60 percent expect to be doing more of them in 2017.
Homeowners can create a spa-like bathroom at home with features like this luxurious American Standard Coastal-Serin freestanding soaking tub.
Traditionally styled freestanding tubs were often clawfooted fixtures that meshed well with conventional design themes, but struggled to fit into the sleek, contemporary lines associated with a spa-like setting. Strikingly modern freestanding tubs offer expanded design flexibility as a focal point in today’s spa-inspired bathroom settings. Options like the American Standard CoastalSerin Freestanding Tub in high-gloss cast acrylic enhance the deep soaking space of a luxurious tub with a clean, simple and modern profile that fits well in spa-like bathroom design. Few bathroom fixtures speak of luxury as clearly and loudly as a showpiece bathtub. A deep, sumptuous freestanding tub not only provides a restful spot for a soothing soak after a long day, it also serves as a striking visual focal point for modern baths. Considering fixture alternatives Already have a standard alcove tub, but still want to create your spa at home? Try installing a deep soak tub drain, which has a unique overflow feature that allows 2-inch deeper water than a standard bathtub drain. This universal drain works in most standard bathtubs - and that could be yours. Replacing a standard toilet seat with an upscale option like the DXV AT100 SpaLet Electronic Bidet Seat furthers the luxu-
riousness of the bathroom without the cost commitment and permanency of installing a full bidet. Its heated seat, choice of water temperature and volume for the two cleansing wands, and the oh-so-decadent warm air dryer are the ultimate self-indulgence to bring the spa right into your home. Wood vanities and storage cabinets for bath linens continue to be popular with today’s consumers. Floating vanities and open shelving, which are gaining in use with interior designers and homeowners alike, can further the effect of an upscale spa by creating a visually clean, uncluttered effect. Rounding out the theme Soft, pale greens and aquas have long been associated with spa-like design, but in 2017 bathroom color choices are trending toward grays, off whites, blues and violets, according to the Design Trends report. Sedate and subtle are the hallmarks of spa color schemes, so when choosing yours keep in mind the calm effect you want to achieve. Also, remember your color scheme doesn’t have to be limited to the walls; consider incorporating your chosen colors into cabinetry, countertops and accessories. Flexible lighting is also key for a spa-like bathroom. Remember to incorporate brighter lighting where you’ll need it most, such as around vanities, and add features like dimmers that will allow you to reduce the amount of light in the room when you want to create a relaxing atmosphere. Finally, adding touches that appeal to all your senses, such as music, mood lighting and aromatherapy can elevate a bathroom to a spa-like environment. Whether you opt for a full surround system in your bathroom or add waterproof blue tooth speakers in the shower, it’s easy to bring music into your spa bath. Scent adds yet another layer of luxury and is easy to achieve, whether you choose a simple arrangement of essential oils and diffuser reeds or an electronic diffuser that gently mists aroma into the room. Americans view their bathrooms as more than just a room to take care of business. Infusing your master bathroom with spa-like features can turn the room into an oasis of relaxation and luxury.
This Coastal-Serin freestanding soaking tub from American Standard is a delightful way to turn any average bathroom into the spa-like setting of your dreams.
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
Real Estate
Thursday, April 27, 2017 • Page 3C
High-tech upgrades can give your bathroom over-the-top luxury
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mericans love luxury and technology, so it’s no surprise that the two are meeting and thriving in one of our favorite places – the bathroom. Just as technology is transforming every other area of the house, inside and out, it’s recreating our concept of what constitutes a luxurious bathroom. The 2016 Houzz Bathroom Trends study found many homeowners renovating their bathrooms are incorporating technology into their plans. From smart mirrors and medicine cabinets to showerheads with Bluetooth connectivity and self-cleaning toilets, technology’s time has arrived in the American bathroom. If you’ll be designing or renovating a bathroom this year, here are four must-have technology items to incorporate into your plans: The medicine cabinet of tomorrow Hidden speakers, high-efficiency task lighting with capacitive-touch dimming, integrated USB charging ports – clearly, this is not your parent’s medicine cabinet! The modern medicine cabinet does far more than serve as a repository for aspirin and toothpaste. Acknowledging that today’s homeowners multitask constantly, even in front of the bathroom mirror, Robern’s AiO collection of medicine cabinets also includes magnetic storage strips, accessory trays, adjustable shelving, a magnification mirror and integrated electrical outlets. The embedded, invisible speakers turn the entire mirror into an audio system that’s compatible with most USB-enabled music-playing devices. Robern, an independently operated subsidiary of bathroom fixtures giant Kohler, has been making innovative bathroom fixtures for nearly 50 years. The AiO line is also fully customizable, and buyers can choose the size and shape that fits their design needs. Visit www.robern.com to learn more. Fancy, user-friendly faucets Remember the days when touchless faucets were the wave of the future? Modern bathroom faucets go far beyond the mere ability to turn them on or off without touching them. Faucets now marry high-tech functionality with leading-edge design to create a visual focal point for your bathroom vanity. A variety of manufacturers offer a staggering array of features, including: •Built-in face recognition that automatically adjusts water temperature and pressure to the settings of the recognized user. •Internet connectivity and a display screen so you can see
emails, your calendar and the weather report while you’re brushing your teeth. •Patterned or shaped spray produced by special mechanisms within the faucet that create swirls in the water discharge or shape it into a thin sheet of water. •The ability to track water consumption while adjusting the temperature and flow to maximize efficiency. Smarter toilets Seventy percent of the homeowners surveyed by Houzz said they had upgraded their toilets as part of their bathroom renovations. Today’s toilets are far more than just a place to take care of business. From super high-efficiency models that flush with amazingly small amounts of water to self-cleaning bowls and motion-activated lids and seats, the toilet has gone high-tech. You can find features that range from practical to decadent, including: •Heated seats and bidet functions •Dryers and deodorizers •Built-in music players •Illumination for nighttime bathroom visits •Remote controls for opening and closing the lid and seat •Hands-free flushing •Automatic self-cleaning Modern mirrors From built-in TVs to task lighting and integrated USB ports, mirrors, like other bathroom fixtures, are now incorporating a variety of high-tech features. Robern’s AiO wall mirror collection offers numerous features, including the ability to wirelessly turn the entire mirror into a speaker. The mirror can communicate with any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone to stream your favorite music or news program into the bathroom. Quality light is essential for everyone’s bathroom routine, and the AiO wall mirrors allow users to customize light output for their needs. A capacitive-touch dimming switch controls the LED lights in the mirror, and LUM Lighting produces light in the 40004500 Kelvin range to provide brighter, fresher light that imparts neutral illumination to skin tones. Whether you’re renovating an old bathroom you just can’t stand anymore or building a new home with the bathroom of your dreams, high-tech features can add enjoyment and usability to one of the most popular rooms in the house.
Page 4C • Thursday, April 27, 2017
Real Estate
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
Big-impact ideas for small patio spaces
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o you have a small patio? Do you think you can’t do much with the space due to its size? There’s probably a lot more potential than you think. From the influx of urban dwellers, empty-nesters in transition and even the tiny-home movement, the trend of downsizing continues across the United States. Contrary to popular belief, you can have an impressive patio even if you have a smaller abode. Here are a few design ideas to help bring your limited patio area to life while maximizing the space: Rugs Add visual interest under foot with a patterned rug. A rug properly placed under a table can break up a smaller floor, giving the illusion of more square footage. Colored rugs are readily available in a variety of designs. Pick your favorite striped, chevron or paisley variety and see what a difference it makes. Water features The natural elegance, gentle gurgle and sparkle of a flowing water feature can add a sense of peacefulness to any patio. For smaller spaces, easily turn a decorative waterproof container or planter into a beckoning water feature by simply adding water and a smartpond Low Water Shut-off Fountain Pump. This smart pump automatically shuts off if the water becomes too low, preventing pump burnout. It’s also a great replacement pump option to revive a decorative premade fountain that has quit working. Learn more at www.smart-pond.com. Think vertical To get the most out of a limited space, think upward instead of outward. Hanging plants are a classic option, but vertical wall gardens are a top trend that’s sure to be a conversation starter. You’ll enjoy plenty of greenery but also open floor space for your furniture, water feature and entertaining to ensure a welcoming area for hosting summer parties. Built-ins To get the most out of every inch of your petite patio, look for furniture and features that multitask to help save space while maximizing functionality. An easy solution is to opt for a table that opens to become a cooler for beverages or a bench to hold blankets and other patio extras. Just remember to keep scale in mind so you don’t overwhelm your space with massive furniture. Mixing materials
Matching is out for 2017, so forget about perfectly paired combos and explore a variety of decor. A great way to try this trend is to add visual interest by experimenting with different materials. Inject your own personality through various finishes. One example: consider setting black resin pots next to a handwoven wicker for an eclectic blend of textures. Vibrant colors Don’t make the mistake of thinking a small space must have muted colors. Vibrant hues inject energy and style, often making a small patio feel larger than it is in real life. From ocean blues to ferocious fuchsia, an accent pillow here and a throw blanket there will transform your space dramatically. From DIY water features to vertical gardens, a small patio doesn’t have to be short on style or functionality. Let these top trends guide you to create a space you’ll enjoy all year long.
Changing weather leaves owners underinsured
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he U.S. has experienced significant shifts in the frequency, severity and locations of natural disasters – including floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires – during the past decade. As a result, more than 800 emergency or disaster declarations were made in the U.S. from 2005-2015, according to FEMA data. The insured losses stemming from natural catastrophes such as these average $24 billion annually. Homeowners face severe risks from these disasters, yet many have not connected the dots between these shifts and the impact on their home insurance needs. A recent survey commissioned by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) found that fewer than 22 percent of homeowners view weather patterns or disasters as an important factor when updating their homeowners insurance policy. Missing these links can be costly. “Changing weather patterns can dramatically impact what insurance should be carried on a property,” said Mike Consedine, NAIC chief executive officer. “When homeowners don’t regularly review their policies, important gaps in coverage can be missed. You should re-evaluate your risk profile at least once a year to ensure your existing homeowners policy provides the protection you need.” Despite Consedine’s recommendation, the survey revealed that 56 percent of homeowners have not reviewed their insurance policies in more than a year. Fourteen percent are unsure when – if ever – they last reviewed their policies. If it’s been awhile since your last insurance review, there’s no better time than the present. When evaluating your policy, consider the following questions: 1. Am I now at risk? Are earthquakes, wildfires or other disasters now a threat in my state or region? If you live in Oklahoma, for example, the risk of earthquakes has significantly increased in the last decade. Do I need flood insurance? Some incidents such as floods are not covered by a typical homeowners policy, so you’ll need additional coverage. 2. What has changed in my home? If you’ve moved in with your significant other or an adult child has returned home, consider the impact their belongings will have on your coverage. Create a home inventory and update it annually. The NAIC’s MyHome Scr.App.book app (available for iPhone and Android) lets you quickly capture images and descriptions of your possessions. Keep in mind personal items like jewelry, antiques and artwork may require special insurance coverage. 3. Do I save my receipts? Take photos or save receipts from major purchases and store them in a safe place away from your house or apartment. Access to these receipts will make filing a claim much easier. 4. What home improvements have I made? Renovations and additions can change the value of your home. Make sure your homeowners insurance policy reflects your home’s current value. Some security or smart home features may qualify you for premium discounts. 5. How can I learn more about being prepared? Get educated about your insurance options now to avoid surprises later. Insure U’s new Disaster Prep Guides can help determine the best course of action before, during and after a disaster strikes. The guides include information and tips for tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes and wildfires. For unbiased information and resources to help you rethink insurance, visit insureuonline.org. For insurance information specific to where you live, contact your state insurance commissioner.
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS
Real Estate
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current home. Jack Merrick, qualifying broker for Buena Vista Realty, can be reached at 575.760.7521. Kercida Merrick, associate broker, can be reached at 575.760.5760. Koletta Hayes, associate broker, can be reached at 575.760.1929. Lori Bohm, qualifying broker and listing agent for 2221 Jadyn Lane, can be reached at 575.760.9847. Melody Sandberg, associate broker, can be reached at 575.825.1291. Whether you are a first-time buyer, an old pro looking for real estate for sale, a relocation buyer or you’re out to just buy the best way possible, you owe it to yourself to call a trusted real estate professional to help you with the complexities of real estate transactions. “I look forward to being of service to you,” Bohm said. “I am available at your convenience so please do not hesitate to call or email me anytime … and remember ‘Advice is ALWAYS Free!’ ” To see this featured home at 2221 Jadyn Lane in Clovis, or any home listed for sale in Curry and Roosevelt counties, call the trusted professionals at Buena Vista Realty, 575.226.0671, or visit their office at 521 W. 2nd St., Portales.
Thursday, April 27, 2017 • Page 5C
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Real Estate
THE EASTERN NEW MEXICO NEWS