East Bay Homes | Winter 2023

HomesEAST BAY

n (Im)perfectly normal – Expect the imbalanced market to continue

n ‘It’s always a good time to buy’ – Advice for first-timers

n The 2022 Report – Prices rose and sales fell

n Quick and easy ways to give the kitchen a new look

Market experts encourage buyers to press forward in a tough market — but be prepared and get a good team

BY JULIA STEARLY

It’s no secret that over the past few years, the housing market has been one of the hottest topics, especially among new buyers. We saw major shifts when the pandemic hit; between heightened prices, inventory at a record low, and houses flying off the market in mere minutes, it became hard for many unseasoned buyers to explore the world of real estate.

Local real estate agents Brooke Buckett and Deb Cordeiro, first-time home buyer Holly Richmond, and mortgage advisor Gina Campbell-Helm all said that, when it comes to getting your feet wet, knowledge is key.

Campbell-Helm said, “My goal is to help any buyer, be it their first time or tenth time around, make an informed

decision.”

Though cost and availability fluctuate, Cordeiro stands by her tried and true philosophy that “It’s always a good time to buy. Real estate has proven to be the best investment, and nothing has been able to prove me wrong on that.” Similarly, Buckett said, “Building sweat equity is incredibly valuable. It’s important, and in your best interest, to

be willing to look for long-term opportunities … When you buy over renting, your home becomes an asset rather than a liability.”

You’re in control

Making the decision to buy a home allows owners to, somewhat, control their own costs. As Buckett said, “When you rent, you’re paying your landlord’s

mortgage, and there’s always the risk that they’re going to up your payments. When you pay your own mortgage, you’re paying into a nesting egg for yourself.”

Campbell-Helm made a similar point: “Rent is really at a premium, so to buy something where you’re generating equity instead of paying a bill that isn’t working for you anyway just makes sense.”

Getting educated

When the time comes to get the ball rolling, as Richmond put it, “There are so many variables and subtopics that the information just isn’t really acces-

“When you buy over renting, your home becomes an asset rather than a liability.”

BROOKE BUCKETT

sible on your own.” This is why Buckett so strongly values the hour-long consultation she holds with each first-time buyer she works with. From there, she said, “I kind of hand-hold and coach you through the whole thing. I have trusted lenders and attorneys, and I work really hard to set them up with reputable resources from the get-go.”

Cordeiro also identified this as a crucial part of the process. She said, “I always make sure they have everything they need in their corner.”

Borrowers opting for ARMs

The different experts in the process play vastly different roles. Agents lead the house-hunting. Lenders help steer the finances. Campbell-Helm said she leads the discussion about “down payments … and we look at credit and assets, because if those things stay the same, everything should go smoothly.”

She said that recently, because of rising interest rates, buyers are increasingly opting for Adjustable Rate Mortgage loans (ARMs), and Rhode Island Housing programs.

She said, “Just about 90% of my clients are going with ARMs right now.”

These loans offer an interest rate up to a full point lower than the traditional 30-year fixed mortgage. For example, a 10/1 ARM loan is fixed for ten years at a rate of 5.125, and when the ten years is up, it readjusts annually. There are also adjustable rate loans available for seven- and five-year increments, but as Campbell-Helm said, “The less amount of time you have with the loan, the riskier it can get because you have less time with that fixed rate before it starts to shift.”

Rhode Island Housing offers a program where buyers can get 100% financing upon approval and qualification. Campbell-Helm did, however, say that “In this market, it’s more difficult for buyers to get accepted offers using government loans.”

Advice to buyers

When asked what one piece of advice they would give to first time-buyers, each professional said something different. Cordeiro said: “If you find a house you like and that works for you, go for it. You absolutely have a fighting chance, so at least try.”

Buckett recommended, “Even if you’re six or twelve months out, have the conversation, because being prepared is what puts you ahead.”

Campbell-Helm refrained from giving specific advice because she believes absolutely every situation is different, and “Something that’s great for one person could be irrelevant or just not helpful for another.”

A common thread from each expert’s perspective is that buyers must be prepared and organized — and backed by good people who can make the journey as seamless as possible. When asked if she thought this is a good time to buy, Cordeiro said: “Absolutely. You just need your ducks in a row.”

While the home-buying process can be stressful, especially for first-time buyers, Richmond said: “I find househunting to be really creative and liberating. It’s really motivating to imagine yourself in the space and be able to think about how you could make it your own.”

Julia Stearly is a high school intern working with East Bay Media Group.

GINA CAMPBELL-HELM

Minor exterior upgrades can help sell a home

Research says these investments hold most of their value when renovated homes hit the market

The home improvement industry has been booming for years, but forecasters are projecting a deceleration in 2023 and perhaps beyond. Estimates from the Home Improvement Research Institute, which is the leading market research resource for the home and building products industry, indicate that growth in the home improvement products market is expected to decelerate from 7.2 percent in 2022 to 1.5 percent in 2023.

Inflation continues to affect consumer spending, and homeowners may be looking to spend less on renovations in the year ahead.

Minor upgrades that aren’t as costly as larger projects can still make a big difference, especially among prospective buyers. When looking for minor upgrades that can help sell a home, homeowners can rely on Remodeling magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value Report.”

That report analyzes costs for an assortment of remodeling projects and determines the value of those projects at resale. Though resale value depends on a host of variables, including location, following are some relatively minor exterior upgrades that impress buyers and provide a strong return for homeowners.

Garage door replacement

Garage doors matter more than sellers may recognize, as various real estate professionals note that buyers appreciate homes with updated garage doors. That’s good news for homeowners, as the “2022 Cost vs. Value Report” indicated homeowners recoup roughly 93 percent of their garage door replacement investment at resale.

The average cost of such a job is right around $4,000, making this a budget-friendly remodeling project.

Window replacement

The cost of new windows will depend on just how many windows must be replaced. But there’s no denying buyers like the idea of low emissivity (low-E) windows, which can cut energy bills by a significant

amount over time. The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy estimates that heat gain and heat loss through windows is

responsible for between 25 and 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use, so sellers who can tell buyers they have new low-E

windows can emphasize those savings in home listings.

The “2022 Cost vs. Value Report” indicates that homeowners recoup roughly two-thirds of their investment in new windows at resale.

Landscaping

Well-maintained landscaping is another home exterior component that can make a strong first impression on buyers. A recent survey of nearly 7,000 realtors conducted by the National Association of Realtors found that upgrading a landscape recouped roughly 83 percent of homeowners’ initial investment at resale.

In addition, 11 percent of realtors surveyed indicated that an upgraded landscape was the decisive factor that closed the deal for the house.

Updating a home’s exterior doesn’t have to bust homeowners’ budgets. Many affordable projects also provide a substantial return at resale.

A leading report says that sellers recoup about 93% of their investment in new garage doors.

A well-maintained landscape – note the controlled vegetation and attractive retaining wall — can hold about 83% of its value at resale, according to a nationwide report.

(Im)perfectly normal – A preview of the spring market

BY LUCY PROBERT

The housing market in the East Bay has been in a whirlwind for the past few years, and experts don’t expect much of a change when spring comes around. Lowered post-pandemic interest rates are moving up, hovering around 6%, and inventory remains minimal.

“While sellers are still in a strong position, it will likely continue to be a very trying time for buyers,” said Paula Martel, broker and manager of Century 21 Topsail Realty.

Lofty prices and inventory continue to be key issues, but some challenges are coming from outside factors.

“What’s happening on a macroeconomic level can affect the real estate

market,” said Cherry Arnold, sales associate, Mott & Chace Sotheby’s.

“Will there be a recession? Will the Federal Reserve achieve their goal of a ‘soft landing’? Even supply chain issues can have an impact. With more instability comes more fluctuation,” she said.

“And for higher- end buyers, more than interest rates, inflation and the stock market can have a strong impact on them as well.”

Inventory shortages existed pre-covid

While Covid has affected inventory and demand, the transition was already in the works even before the pandem-

kets, we have grown to specialize in the Senior Real Estate Market. We offer full management services, from start to finish. We put our clients

Experts predict that the imbalanced sellers’ market of the last few years will continue – and they offer advice on how to make the best of it

“Houses will still come on and then fly off the market, so buyers have to be savvy and more organized than ever.”

PAULA MARTEL

PHOTO COURTESY MOTT & CHACE SOTHEBY'S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

This Tiverton home is a good example of the real estate market in 2022. It listed for $1,950,000 and sold for over-asking at $2 million.

ic.

The market may look awfully familiar – low inventory, high prices

From FACING PAGE

“Back before 2020, no matter the season, we were starting to see a drop in inventory, down to about half of what we had the year before,” said Martel. “While inventory was nowhere near as dry as it is now, buyers had to be very proactive, and we often saw several offers coming in very quickly.”

The numbers reflect buyers’ demands. According to Mott & Chace Sotheby’s 10-year trends for singlefamily sales, in Little Compton in 2022, the median sale price jumped to $875,000, up $345,000 from 2019, and in Westport, the median sale price was $672,000, up $185,000 from 2020.

Move-in condition matters

What has slowed down, according to Martel, is the sale of high-priced properties in need of extensive work.

“Prices are sometimes not reflective of improvements needing to be made. Consideration has to be made for costs that will need to be added to the acquisition price, and will that equate to a reasonable resale value if a year or two down the road it goes back on the mar-

ket? Consumers do their homework, so these houses can sit for a while.”

What to expect …

In times like these, it’s more important than ever to work with a Realtor, said Martel. “For buyers, a licensed Realtor sees within minutes when homes are listed,” she said. “It can take up to half a day for them to be posted on popular real estate websites, and every minute counts.”

And for sellers, pricing is everything, so work closely with a Realtor to stick to appropriate, not aspirational, pricing, said Arnold. “Know the difference between the value of the property vs. what you would like to get for it. You

“You have to be very smart and price where the property is going to attract buyers.”

CHERRY ARNOLD

PHOTO COURTESY CENTURY 21 TOPSAIL REALTY

Another example of the 2022 market: This waterfront Portsmouth home listed and sold quickly, at the asking price of $1,650,000.

have to be very smart and price where the property is going to attract buyers.”

What can sellers do? Be ready

Some sellers make the mistake of waiting too long to prep their home before putting it on the market, said Arnold. “Even if you’re not listing for a few months, now is not too soon to get everything ready, including decluttering and painting. Make use of the time so that inside and out, your home looks its absolute best.”

What can buyers do? Be prepared

While sellers are still in the driver’s seat, buyers are out there waiting their turn, educating themselves on the market and coming prepared to move quickly.

“Buyers will need to have all of their ducks in a row financially and be willing to consider things like removing contingencies from their offers in order to be considered,” said Martel.

Because in a hot market sometimes only one viewing is possible before bidding, virtual house tours have become invaluable. Potential buyers can visit again and again online, and with measurement tools available room by room, buyers come even more prepared. “I’ve had people walk into a house for the first time and say ‘we’ve already measured the dining room to see if our table fits’ or they’ve looked at floor plans beforehand virtually to see what modifications they would be able to make,” said Arnold. “This is a marketing tool I can’t live without as a Realtor,” she said.

As the weather warms up, hopes for the market remain sunny. “I’m optimistic that spring will bring more properties for sale,” said Martel. “But it still won’t be back to normal. Houses will still come on and then fly off the market, so buyers have to be savvy and more organized than ever.”

And when it comes to sellers, said Arnold: “In this shifting market, the importance of appropriate pricing and strategic marketing cannot be overstated.”

Prices rose and sales fell in

Newest data from the R.I. Association of Realtors reveals the continuing trend of high prices and low inventory

Home sales data recently released by the Rhode Island Association of Realtors relay a Q4 2022 median single-family home sales price of $400,000, which represented a 6.7% year-over-year gain, while the number of closed sales fell 32.7%. In the last three months of 2022, 2,094 homes sold, compared to 3,113 in the fourth quarter of 2021.

The Q4 median price of multi-family homes sold from October through December rose 9.9%, to $423,000, from $385,000 12 months prior. Sales activity fell 44.6%.

Among condominium sales, the median sales price rose to $329,900 last quarter, from $285,000 in the fourth quarter of 2021, a 15.8% gain. Closed sales fell by 32.7%.

“While homeowners still saw posi-

tive gains in median sales price toward the end of the year, the rate of appreciation definitely fell from what we saw in the first half of the year. Given the affordability issues exacerbated by rising interest rates, sellers have had to adjust their expectations,” said Bryant Da Cruz, president of the Rhode Island Association of Realtors.

2022, a pivotal year

2022 overall saw a 17.3% decrease in single-family home sales compared to 2021, and a 10.1% gain in the median price. At $401,926, last year’s median price was the first time Rhode Island’s annual median price topped $400,000.

Multi-family home sales declined 24.4% year-over-year, while the median sales price reached $420,000, a 15.1% gain. The multi-family home market has been particularly attractive to financially well-qualified and cash investors, helping to put this sector of the market out of reach for many first-time home buyers.

Condominium sales, another sec-

tor traditionally popular with firsttime buyers due to generally lower price points, decreased 20.9% yearover-year. The median price of condos sold in 2022 rose 16.3%, to $319,900.

“Last year was a pivotal year for the housing market, as rising interest rates wreaked havoc on home affordability. In addition to that, rising inflation and a potential impending recession kept sellers in their current homes and buyers left with limited choices. The stars aligned to keep inventory low and housing costs high,” said Da Cruz.

Last year, R.I. Realtors transacted $6.9 billion in residential real estate sales and $7.1 billion in total sales and rentals, including commercial transactions. Those numbers dropped 12.7% and 12.4%, respectively, from 2021.

The data is pulled from transactions recorded in State-Wide Multiple Listing Service, the listing information exchange system, owned and operated by the Rhode Island Association of Realtors.

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There’s more than one way to finance home improvements

Find the best option to pay for your home renovations

Renovating a home is a great way to impart personality indoors and out. Improvements can make spaces more livable and address safety issues. Home renovations often take residents’ lifestyles into account, and changes can be customized to accommodate a growing family or an empty nest.

No matter the job, home improvements tend to be costly. According to the financial resource SoFi, on average, the cost to renovate or remodel a whole house runs between $10 and $60 per square foot. Certain rooms demand a higher cost, with a kitchen or bathroom remodel costing around $100 to $250 per square foot due to electrical and plumbing needs. Figuring out how to pay for the improvement project is as essential to the planning process as picking out materials and contractors.

Following are some financial considerations and financing options for homeowners looking to renovate

their properties.

Consider if the investment is worth it Remodeling magazine routinely assesses common improvements and how much homeowners can expect to recoup on the investment in its annual “Cost v. Value” report. In 2022, a homeowner spending $4,000 on a garage door replacement recouped 93.3 per-

cent of the investment, whereas adding a midrange bathroom at $63,000 would only offer a 51.8 percent return.

Homeowners must decide if they want to go forward with the project if they’re likely to get just a $33,000 return when they choose to sell the home later on.

Refinance the home mortgage

Homeowners can use a cash-out mortgage refinance as a way to access thousands of dollars for a remodel. This taps into a home’s equity. Keep in mind that the mortgage will then be a new mortgage at the current interest rate and an outstanding balance higher than what was the current one. Typically 20 percent equity in the home is needed to refinance.

Take out a personal loan

For those who do not want to refinance, a personal loan or home improvement loan can be good for midsized projects, according to American Express. Personal loans for home renovations typically require no collateral, and one’s credit score determines the interest rate.

Utilize a home equity line of credit

A HELOC is a form of revolving credit, like a credit card. Homeowners borrow against the credit line granted, with the home being the collateral. As a person pays down what is owed, he or she can borrow more. This is a good idea for recurring or long-term home improvements.

Try a home equity loan

Home equity loans use the home as collateral, like a HELOC. The home equity loan is an installment loan for a fixed amount on a fixed monthly schedule for a set term. These are sometimes called second mortgages.

No- or low-interest credit card

Smaller projects can be financed using credit cards. Many will offer introductory rates, with no interest for a few months. This is generally only preferable if a person can pay off the balance before interest is charged. These are the primary ways to finance home improvement projects when costs exceed available cash on hand.

Big projects can be financed through a variety of means, including a mortgage refinancing, a line of credit or even a credit card.

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Tips for budget-friendly home decor

There are many budgetfriendly ways to make interior spaces more inviting

Home interiors can be spruced up in a number of ways. Ideas run the gamut from relatively inexpensive changes in paint color to more extensive (and expensive) remodels that may include demolition and reconstruction. Investing in new home decor is another way to breathe new life into spaces, and this approach falls somewhere in the middle in regard to cost.

Material and product costs remain high across the board, so individuals interested in changing the furniture and other design elements in their homes might be seeking ways to do so in the most affordable way possible. In such instances, homeowners can try these budget-friendly ways to overhaul their home decor.

Create the illusion of more space

Light, bright and white are key attributes to remember when selecting design elements for rooms where you

want to create the illusion of more square footage. Painting the walls in very light colors, increasing natural and artificial light, including using well-placed mirrors to reflect light, and decorating with light-colored fabrics can help a space seem more roomy.

Replace the accessories

Replacing curtains, area rugs, throw pillows, and chair cushions is an easy way to change a room without a big investment. Consider updating some wall art and tying color schemes together with all of the newly introduced elements.

Splurge on statement pieces that will be used frequently These may include chandeliers, unique rugs or an eyecatching piece of furniture.

Shop ‘discount’ stores for furniture and accents

Traditional design centers can be great places to find plenty of highquality merchandise. However, don’t overlook local discount or close-out

centers that may have items at very reasonable costs.

Stores like Home Goods, At Home and Big Lots routinely get new merchandise that changes with the season, helping homeowners to refresh their spaces without having to dig deep into their pockets. Shop the high-end stores for inspiration, then try to find “dupes” in the discount stores that will mimic the looks for less.

With a mix of bigticket signature items, like couches and fireplace, and low-cost accents, like throw pillows, rug and paint, you can create clean, open, refreshed spaces.

Cut out the clutter

Modern homes are lean and clean. A home’s interior instantly looks more high-end and appealing when the clutter is removed. Consider keeping main living areas free from too many knickknacks and other accents. If you want to display a special collection, set aside a room specifically for such items. There are many budget-friendly ways to make interior spaces more inviting.

Building a Garden — Going native

BY LUCY PROBERT

Landscape designer Daune Peckham has been working in coastal New England for more than three decades, and has developed a style that integrates landscape design “with nature in mind.” We talked to Daune about how to get started, what she plants in her own garden and why, in her opinion, native plants make for the most beautiful gardens.

“There’s something just so pleasurable about being in a garden,” she says.

What are the first steps in starting a garden?

“The most important thing to do is look at your site. What is its exposure to wind, to sun? What type of soil do you have? If it’s in a low area is it wet?

“Little Compton tends to have clay soil with a high-water table. Can the area be fenced in?

“Deer are probably the number one challenge for gardens once they find you. They won’t come through when you’re sitting out having a cup of coffee, it will be at night when it’s dark.

“If fencing isn’t an option, you’ll have to learn to live with them by finding plants they are less likely to eat, and there are a lot of them. Check online or with a local nursery.”

Why native?

“I don’t really have a traditional cutting flower garden per se. I put in primarily native flowering plants in my garden, but if I were designing a garden just for picking flowers, I would choose a different site on the property where you can plant flowers that are pretty for cutting, but maybe don’t bloom for very long.

“For a small garden I just want to enjoy from my patio, that always looks good, I stick to primarily

Lic #A3312

Daune Peckham has been designing landscapes in coastal New England for more than 30 years. See FACING PAGE

It helps to know what to plant — and when to plant it

habitat.

native plants.”

When to plant?

“The best time of year to start a garden would have been in the fall, but it’s not too late to start planning now.

“While the soil is too saturated to work in this early in the season — the worst thing you can do is work on garden beds when the soil is waterlogged — it’s ok to get a jumpstart by maybe adding compost or defining the garden space.

“Sometimes we get lucky by April when it may start to dry up and can get some work done.”

What to plant?

“Unless you’re hiring a professional to do the heavier work, I wouldn’t advise planting more than you can take care of yourself and avoid plants that need a lot of fussing over. I prefer natives. To me, a plant has to ‘pay the rent’, it’s got to offer nectar or pollen, that can be worked into a garden, like a mini

“In building a garden I recommend starting with structural plants, like deciduous, viburnums or winterberry shrubs. And from there I work in different herbaceous plants.

“One of the books I highly recommend is ‘Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants,’ by Douglas Tallamy. It’s a great book for beginners and those gardening for years, as a useful primer on creating a beautiful garden with plants native to your area.

“I try to tell people not to get too fussy about their gardens. I like to let things kind of be natural, if you don’t have luck with a plant, there’s probably a reason for it. People love coneflowers for example, but they’re finicky, they don’t like sitting in wet soil.

“Sometimes flowers are telling you they don’t like where they are so move on and find another type of plant that’s going to be happy and thrive in your soil and environment.”

In this Daune Peckham project, perimeter exotics and invasives were carefully removed and replaced with mixed native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous perennials to attract birds, butterflies, and native pollinators as well.

How to compare contractors’ bids

Not all bids are created equal, so it helps to do some homework

Home renovation projects are significant undertakings. It is common for homeowners who may not have the time nor the expertise to do the work themselves to call in professionals to tackle these jobs.

According to the home improvement resource HomeGuide.com, for a bathroom remodel, which is one of the more popular improvement projects, installation and labor accounts for 10 to 25 percent of the total project cost. In general, many contractors pay themselves $300 to $500 for an hourly rate, while helpers may make $150 per hour.

Materials used account for the other components of an overall project cost. Homeowners negotiate the best rates possible by obtaining a number of bids from contractors, spelling out both labor and

material costs and determining their best option. Here’s how to compare bids.

Check as many reviews as possible

Go online, ask friends for recommendations, or rely on the Better Business Bureau to find reliable contractors. A contractor who seems too good to be true will not necessarily be so, but it’s still best to vet each professional thoroughly prior to signing a contract.

Cost basis vs. bid basis

Certain contractors will produce an estimate based on the best guess of the cost of supplies then add on a flat fee or percentage for their services. This is called a cost basis bid. Others will create a bid that includes all their anticipated supply and labor costs, known as a bid basis bid. Know what you’re getting to make the most accurate comparison.

Do your homework before signing on the dotted line

Create a master itemized checklist

It’s easy to explain the project differently from one contractor to another when doing so verbally. That may result in a different plan and price. Rather, make a checklist of what you want done and have several copies to give to the contractors with whom you meet. This makes it easier to compare costs line by line.

Have specific materials in mind

Make sure bids are based on the same materials and tasks. For example, if you’re comparing window replacement quotes, be sure that each quote is based on the same window material and coating. Vinyl replacement windows may not cost the same as fiberglass or wood. It is much easier to compare pric-

ing when contractors provide estimates reflecting the same materials.

Small vs. big contracting companies

Some bids may differ based on the manpower of the company. One contractor may view a project as an easy one that can be slipped right into the schedule. Another may have to devote more time and effort if it is being undertaken by one or two people. This can affect cost in the quote.

Doing your own demo

Figure out if the contractor will allow you to perform a portion of the tear-out, clean-up or other tasks to save on labor costs. Make sure this is included in the bid.

Comparing contractor work bids can be tricky, but it helps homeowners know they’re getting the best value for their money.

Know who's bidding on your project. Is it one person who works alone, or a whole crew?

Quick and easy ways to give your kitchen a new look

There are many kitchen upgrades short of a complete remodel

Kitchens are often described as the busiest rooms in a home. Kitchens are where meals are prepared and tend to be go-to gathering spots on holiday get-togethers and during other events when homeowners host family and friends.

With so much time spent in the kitchen, it’s easy to see how homeowners might grow a little bored by these rooms. The cost of a kitchen remodel won’t be cheap, as the home improvement resource Angi.com notes that the typical cost of such a project in the United States is between $13,000 and $38,000. Angi.com estimates even indicate that a high-end remodel could cost homeowners as much as $61,000. But the good news is that there are many quick and easy, not to mention less expensive, ways to give a kitchen a new look.

You may want an entirely new kitchen, but if that’s not an option, then small changes to hardware, lighting, seating and cabinets can make a big difference.

Refresh the kitchen with modest upgrades and investments

From FACING PAGE

Repaint and restyle the cabinets

Cabinet space is an undeniably precious commodity in a kitchen, especially as more and more homeowners embrace their inner chef and cook more complicated meals at home. After all, the more expansive a home chef’s culinary repertoire, the more space that person needs to store all the tools of the cooking trade.

A full cabinet replacement is unnecessary if the cabinets are still functional and not overcrowded, so repainting them can be a great way to give the kitchen a new look while keeping costs reasonable. During the painting project, homeowners can install new cabinet knobs and/or drawer pulls to freshen up the style of the cabinets even further.

Install under-cabinet lighting

Another inexpensive way to give a kitchen a new look is to install undercabinet lighting. Under-cabinet lighting serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose. From a purely aesthetic standpoint, under-cabinet lighting can

make a kitchen feel more warm and keep the kitchen illuminated when meals aren’t being prepared and homeowners don’t want to have their overhead lights on but still want to be able to navigate the kitchen safely. During meal prep, under-cabinet lighting can illuminate counters so it’s easier to

chop, peel and perform other prep tasks.

Replace existing backsplash

Replacing backsplash is another simple, inexpensive and effective way to give a kitchen a new feel. Homeowners can opt for something neutral that

won’t upset their existing decor or go with a more bold backsplash that immediately draws the attention of anyone who enters the room. This simple job can be done by the average doit-yourselfer and the cost of new backsplash won’t break the bank.

Replace existing seating

Whether you have an island countertop with bar stools or a breakfast nook with cushioned seats, replacing the seating is a budget-friendly job that can create a new look when entering the room. Countertop bar stools come in many styles, so giving this area of the kitchen a new feel can be as simple as shifting from classic, high-back stools to more modern swivel stools with a chrome base.

For the breakfast nook, replacing a light-colored bench cushion with a bolder alternative can instantly transform the look of the space.

Kitchen remodels can break the bank. But there’s a host of budgetfriendly ways for cost-conscious homeowners to revitalize these popular spaces in their homes.

Gentle improvements, like freshly painted white cabinets or a new white backsplash, can help bring life and vitality to a dark kitchen.

Small renovations can make a big

Homeowners can make many changes, short of a full renovation, to improve their living spaces

Home renovations provide a host of benefits. Such projects can increase resale value and improve on the safety, aesthetics and functionality of a home.

Some homeowners may employ the mantra “go big or go home” when they embark on home improvements, thinking that only the largest renovations produce noticeable change. But that’s not the case. Various smaller renovations can provide a lot of bang for homeowners’ bucks as well.

Countertops (and hardware)

A complete kitchen overhaul may

stretch some homeowners’ budgets. However, changing an older countertop for a new material can provide the facelift a kitchen needs. And while changing the cabinets may be homeowners’ ultimate goal, swapping hardware in dated finishes for newer handles and pulls can provide low-cost appeal.

Paint

Painting a space is an inexpensive improvement that adds maximum impact. Paint can transform dark and drab rooms into bright and airy oases. Paint also can be used to create an accent wall or cozy nooks. Homeowners also can showcase their personalities with their choice of paint colors.

There are many ways to improve home quality of life

Mudroom

Lighting

Homeowners should not underestimate what a change in lighting can do. When rooms or exterior spaces are illuminated, they take on entirely new looks. It’s worth it to invest in new lighting, whether it’s a dramatic hanging light over the dining room table or task lighting in dim spaces.

Weatherproofing

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Turn an entryway into a more functional space with the addition of cabinets, benches or customdesigned storage options that perfectly fit the area. Cubbies and cabinets can corral shoes, umbrellas, hats, bags, and much more.

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YOUR AD AS IT WILL APPEAR BELOW FOR THE 2018

Accent updates

YOUR AD AS IT WILL APPEAR BELOW FOR THE 2018

Improving windows, doors, weatherstripping, and insulation in a home can offer visual appeal and help homeowners save money. The initial investment may be significant, but those costs will pay off in energy savings. According to One Main Financial, space heating is the largest energy expense the average American homeowner has, accounting for around 45 percent of all energy costs.

Any space, whether it’s inside or outside a home, can get a fresh look with new decorative accents. Invest in new throw pillows and even slipcovers for living room sofas. Use new tile or paint the brick on a fireplace in a den, then update the mantel with decorative displays. Purchase wall art that can bring different colors into a room. Change the cushions on deck furniture and buy color-coordinated planters.

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These subtle changes will not cost as much as full-scale renovations, but they can still help homeowners transform their homes.

Mark DeVine

How the pandemic fueled major price spikes

At the height of the pandemic, many homeowners diverted funds earmarked for vacations and other recreational expenses into home renovations. More time at home gave homeowners ideas about which areas were in need of improvement.

However, rising interest in remodeling coupled with supply chain issues and material shortages rapidly drove up costs on building materials. According to Angi’s True Cost Reports, in 2020, closets, cabinetry, and additions saw the biggest price increases, going up 38 percent, 30 percent and 49 percent, respectively.

Lumber, particularly softwood lumber, used throughout renovations like framing and decking, rose to recordsetting prices. Not only were lumber

mills slowing down production due to worker shortages, but the housing and renovation markets also were heating up.

The National Association of Homebuilders says prices on wood finally started to fall in June 2021 and have since returned to more reasonable ranges. A 2022 first quarter Producer Price Index report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics said prices of goods used in residential construction rose 1.4 percent in March, compared to 2.2 percent in February and 4.1 percent in January. This marked an 8 percent jump in building material prices since the start of 2022. Material prices have increased 20.4 percent year over year and have risen 33 percent since the start of the pandemic, indicates the PPI.

The most popular projects are …

Home renovations can improve a home in many different ways. Modifications to kitchens and bathrooms have long been popular projects, but are they the most popular renovations?

According to data from Realm, which analyzed the top 10 most popular projects from roughly 2.8 million listings and permit filings in the United States in 2022, certain projects are more popular

My mantra is an ounce of prevention will save a whole tree.

than others. Nationally, the most common home renovations include interior painting, exterior painting, finishing a basement, installing or replacing win-

Houzz polls have unveiled that renovating kitchens and bathrooms, new windows and porches, balcony and deck projects are among the most popu-

My mantra is an ounce of prevention will save a whole tree.

mantra is an ounce of prevention save a whole tree.

My mantra is an ounce of prevention will save a whole tree.

Ramon Reyes champions the trees, landscapes and property investments of the customers his care. And he’s one of the many reasons we’ve become the premier scientific tree and shrub care company in the world.

Reyes champions the trees, landscapes property investments of the customers care. And he’s one of the many reasons become the premier scientific tree and care company in the world.

Ramon Reyes champions the trees, landscapes and property investments of the customers in his care. And he’s one of the many reasons we’ve become the premier scientific tree and shrub care company in the world.

877-BARTLETT | bartlett.com

877-BARTLETT | bartlett.com

877-BARTLETT | bartlett.com

877-BARTLETT | bartlett.com

The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company

RAMON REYES

Arborist and Bartlett Champion

The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company

RI SINGLE-FAMILY HOME SALES

Questions to ask your contractor

Individuals looking to renovate their homes typically reach out to a number of professionals for estimates before choosing a contractor. Once that decision has been made, it’s customary to sign a contract to ensure all parties are protected during and after the work.

A renovation contract outlines the details of a remodeling job. The construction company or the general contractor will create this legal document, which will list the steps of the job and how issues will be resolved should problems arise. Prior to signing a contract, however, homeowners should engage in a conversation with the contractor and ask key questions.

How long have you been in business?

Verify the information that the contractor and/or company provides by doing a search with the Better Business Bureau and perusing online reviews to confirm the company is dependable.

Are you independently owned?

Some companies are independent-

ly owned businesses while others are franchises. Franchised businesses may have to follow a strict set of rules, while independent contractors may have more leeway in terms of policies.

What is your licence number?

Obtain the licensure information as well as the contractor’s insurance details. A contractor’s general liability insurance protects your home and property in the event of an accident.

Are you familiar with local building codes?

Check to see if the contractor has worked in the area before, and if he or she is familiar with the permit process. Make sure a contract documents who will be securing the permits.

How will the project be supervised?

Some contractors sub-contract out the work and may only stop by to check on progress. Understand how often those drop-ins will take place, and how to get in touch with the person in charge should a problem arise.

At Budget Blinds of Newport, we partner with you to create custom window treatments perfectly suited to your space From our free, in-home design consultation process to our professional installation services, we’re with you every step of the way

Why choose us? We're a local, family-owned business with deep roots right here in Lil' Rhody. We take pride in what we do and our goal is always to provide you with exceptional customer service, tons of design options, help when you need it, and of course - stunning results every time Our customers love us!

Is there a warranty?

Certain contractors will stand behind their work for a period of time, even coming to make repairs if there are any issues. Check to see if a

warranty policy is in place.

What is the policy for home protection and clean-up?

You’ll want to ensure the rest of your home doesn’t become damaged or soiled due to the construction. Have the contractor spell out plans for mitigating mess during demolition, and whether the construction company will be responsible for removing the debris.

What is the final price?

One of the more important questions to ask is if the price stated on the contract will be the final price, or should incidentals be expected if issues are unearthed during construction? Some contractors may need to tack on charges for extra materials, and that can stretch homeowners’ budgets.

It’s important to touch base with the contractor and ask key questions about the project, which will be reflected on the contract both parties eventually sign.

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