The Real Estate Book of Greater Columbia, SC

Columbia, SC HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE

Volume 33, Issue 10

RENOVATING WITHOUT EXCEEDING THE NEIGHBOORHOOD

WEXFORD ON THE LAKE 206 WEXFORD CT - $495K

Pg. 22

REALESTATEBOOK.COM REQUEST FREE MAGAZINES ONLINE, OR CALL 800-841-3401

Page 2 - View Over 750,000 Homes On RealEstateBook.com - Vol. 33, No. 10

Carlos Ennis REALTOR

803-678-7050

®

EXIT REAL ESTATE SOLUTIONS

Office: 803-834-7444

Text Carlos to 85377 to search the MLS

CarlosEnnis@gmail.com

Looking for new construction? Visit: newhomepros.buildersupdate.com/

Text P524663 to 85377 for more info & pictures NE Columbia 4BR/2BA ranch style home with 2 car garage. Gas fireplace. Richland 2 school district. $137,900 MLS:389834

Text P530131 to 85377 for more info & pictures Impressive new 5BR/5.5BA home. Enjoy peaceful views of the lake & privacy on over an ACRE. Luxury Standards only expected from an Emerald Home. Too much to list! A must see! $499,999 MLS:391161

Text P524657 to 85377 for more info & pictures Immaculate 6BR/3.5BA is located in Garden Valley built by D.R. Horton in NE Columbia.

You will fall in love with this floorplan! Over 2700 sq.ft. and Owners Suite is downstairs. $197,900 MLS:387962

Text P524655 to 85377 for more info & pictures Country Living right outside the City! Located on the edge of Kershaw and Richland County and on 1.05 Acres lies this Beautiful 2400+ SF 3BR/2.5BA $219,900 MLS:387370

Text P719176 to 85377 for more info & pictures Townhome in NE Columbia 2BR/2BA spacious living area that opens up to a patio, Updated Kitchen w/stainless steel appliances. No HOA Fees!!! $104,900 MLS:376578

Text P524656 to 85377 for more info & pictures Nicely renovated home in a quiet community.

This partial brick 3 Bedroom/2 Bathroom home features and updated kitchen with granite countertops, spacious dining area, $87,999 MLS:381667

Text P524662 to 85377 for more info & pictures Custom built 3BR/2.5BA All Brick Ranch Style home rests on almost an acre of land.

Sunken DR, Formal LR and an oversized FR with fireplace. $143,300 MLS:389140

Text P818169 to 85377 for more info & pictures Great Home, Great Price, in a Great Community? 3BR/2BA w/nice owners retreat, great room floorplan, gas log fireplace, back patio in spacious backyard. $119,900 MLS:385659

Text P878649 to 85377 for more info & pictures Impressive 5BR/4BA brick dream home under construction. Nestled on an acre with a finished basement overlooking Bells pond.

Study with french doors. Covered screened porch. $525,000 MLS:386728

Text P878648 to 85377 for more info & pictures Exquisite 3BR/3.5BA model home across from beautiful park. Prestigious golf community. One level living w/ open floor plan plus bonus w/ half bath. $350,000 MLS:379305

Text P878647 to 85377 for more info & pictures New 4BR/4.5BA home in prestigious golf community of Woodcreek Farms. Spacious open floor plan. 9’ Smooth ceilings, stunning hardwood floors & more. $263,200 MLS:385454

Text P878646 to 85377 for more info & pictures New 3BR/3.5BA home in prestigious golf community of Woodcreek Farms. SS appliance & granite, butlers pantry, stunning hardwood floors, front porch and more. $235,000 MLS:385457

Text P878645 to 85377 for more info & pictures 5BR/3BA located on a quiet cul-desac street and is only 10 mins from Ft. Jackson, Downtown Columbia and 20 mins from Shaw Air Force Base. $165,990 MLS:385154

Text P878644 to 85377 for more info & pictures Brand new 4BR/3.5BA home now available!

Popular floor plan with formal dining room, large pantry, and a kitchen w/island that overlooks great room. $160,990 MLS:378790

Text P878639 to 85377 for more info & pictures Under Construction 4BR/3.5BA The Kyle offers generous space throughout with cozy loft upstairs, spacious bedrooms & a large flat backyard. $158,990 MLS:387937

Text P878487 to 85377 for more info & pictures Under Construction 5BR/3BA The Chelsea offers generous space throughout with a convenient downstairs bedroom with full bath that can be used as an in-law suite or office. $153,990 MLS:387955

Jake Coker

Regional Manager NMLS #141159

888-812-0525 Cell: 803-479-1186 teamcoker@norcom-usa.com

Mike Taylor Broker/REALTOR® ABR & SFR

EXIT REAL ESTATE SOLUTIONS

Office: 803-397-4222

877-739-2899

Why Buy Now? Ask a REALTOR® - Vol. 33, No. 10 - Page 3

Text MikeTaylor to 85377 to search the MLS

MikeTaylorHomesSC@gmail.com • www.MikeTaylorHomes.com

Text P497471 to 85377 for more info & pictures Low maintenance 2BR/2BA, one car garage, covered back patio. Open GR w/ fireplace. Formal DR. HOA includes security system, front yard maintenance, common area, annual pressure washing and more. $132,500 MLS#387027 Call Mike.

Text P303918 to 85377 for more info & pictures Woodland Hills neighborhood. Close to I-20 & I-26. This move-in ready 3 bedroom & 2 bathroom brick home offers mostly hardwood floors throughout & formal living room. Great room w/ gas burning fireplace. $132,500 MLS#381179 Call Mike.

Text P478817 to 85377 for more info & pictures 3BR/2BA & qualifies for 100% rural financing, Updated throughout. Spacious eat in kitchen, plenty of storage. Vaulted ceilings in the GR. Lg backyard backs up to Lake with over 60 feet of water frontage. $62,500 MLS#386948 Call Mike.

Text P277092 to 85377 for more info & pictures Spacious 4BR/2BA ranch in excellent condition. Lg Kitchen w/Breakfast area opens into FR w/FP. Formal DR & LR. Covered Patio on back. Two car carport with storage. Fenced backyard. New roof in 2005. $150,000 MLS#391204 Call Mike.

Text P854669 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Text P303924 to 85377 for more info & pictures If you’re ready for spacious, country living just minutes from Southeastern Columbia, you’ve found the right place! $50,000 MLS#386057 Call Mike.

Text P208803 to 85377 for more info & pictures Kershaw County = lower taxes This is peaceful country living at its best. All brick home with formal DR, LR w/FP HWD’s screen in deck. Lg FROG can be used as a 4th BR or second living area. $179,000 MLS#377085 Call MIke.

Text P277092 to 85377 for more info & pictures Don t miss this lovely 1.5 story, 2BR, 2.5BA patio home conveniently located The kitchen has a large bar and eat in area.

Extra half bath located on main level. Yard maintenance is covered by HOA. $95,000 MLS#388960 Call Mike.

Lovely all brick 3BR/2.5BA ranch style in the Spring Valley West Neighborhood in NE Columbia.Lg master bedroom. 2nd story: oversized Bonus w/closet could be 4th BR. Lg backyard w/privacy fence, patio & storage building. oversized two car garage $139,900 MLS#389243 Call Mike.

Tina Horne

Text thorne to 85377 to search the MLS

Broker In Charge

Real Estate Solutions

PE N

DI

NG

803-269-2154 • TinaHorne.EXIT@gmail.com Are you thinking of selling your home?

Text P755354 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Kershaw County 3BR/1.5BA Tri-Level, 1 car garage, workshop & fenced on 1.1 acres. $154,900 MLS/ID:381674

Text P721038 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Beautiful Lot in the desirable Spring Valley community. Bring your plans and build your dream home. $28,000 MLS/ID:389839

Text P819980 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Renovated 3BR home w/fresh paint and new windows. Wood laminate flooring through out. Kitchen has real wood cabinets. Fenced backyard & storage shed. $89,900 MLS/ID:385907

D L O

S Text P736456 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Wildewood-Sesqui Pl. 2MBRs, 2-story GR, Hwds throughout most of main, fenced backyard & deck w/screened porch. Walk-in pantry & butler’s pantry. $269,900 MLS/ID:37944

Text P797791 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Beautiful executive home, 4BR/3BA plus office Formal living & dining rooms. Kitchen w/granite and stained cabinets open to the family room. $224,900 MLS/ID:384435

Text P797788 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Beautiful 3BR/2BA in Brittany Park subd of the Summit. HWD’s, updated bathrooms, screened back porch & recently painted. Huge master w/room for an office. $152,500 MLS/ID:377817

I have 3 things you need to know to sell it for the most profit!

Call me today for an appointment!

803-269-2154

Page 4 - View Over 750,000 Homes On RealEstateBook.com - Vol. 33, No. 10

Wonida Welch

Branch Manager

NMLS ID:652830 State Lic.:#MLO-652830

Realty NE

803-269-9396

wonida.welch@caliberhomeloans.com www.caliberhomeloans.com/wwelch

Text P870745 to 85377 for more info & pictures Lake Carolina Private Lakefront Luxury.

6BR/5BA & 2 half BA. Home theater w/ high end audio system, 4 gas fireplaces & intercom to name a few. RARE WALK OUT BASEMENT. $950,000 MLS:388074

Text P870748 to 85377 for more info & pictures IMMACULATE! EVERY BR has a private BA. 4BR/5.5BA, A large bonus. Kitchen is a chef & entertainer’s dream. Formal DR. Located in private gated community w/in Lake Carolina. $440,000 MLS:388591

Shannongreen555@gmail.com • www.realestateofsc.com

Text P870744 to 85377 for more info & pictures Wood Moor 4BR/3BA, HWD’s throughout the main area., study, DR w/private covered patio. Lg FR, fireplace, Kitchen w/island cooktop, butlers pantry, saltwater pool & covered patio. $370,000 MLS:389561

Text P870751 to 85377 for more info & pictures Excellent location on 1.2 acres. 3BR/3BA, Lg FR w/fireplace & built-ins, spacious kitchen w/lots of cabinets. Over 1100 sqft basement.

Close to I-20, Lexington, Columbia and Lake Murray. $208,000 MLS:389621

Featured Properties

Text P724056 to 853773

Text P869751 to 853773

Beautiful 4BR/2.5BA on cul de sac. Hardwood Commercial/Residential. House on .5 acre lot. & fresh paint. Huge fenced backyard. New paint, nice hardwoods, good condition. $162,000 MLS/ID:390842 $124,999 MLS/ID:382203

Keith Williams, Sr

Frances Brown

803-603-1775

803-422-5408

Exit Real Estate Solutions

Asset Realty, Inc.

Advertise YOUR home here!

Text P870801 to 853773

Great commercial 1.75 acre lot. 267’ on busy Hwy 321. Easy access. Plat available. $140,000. MLS/ID:382299

Frances Brown Asset Realty, Inc.

803-422-5408

803-665-8160

Contact Pam Hoover 803-201-1987 pam@sctreb.com

Text P870749 to 85377 for more info & pictures 1.57 ac in Kershaw County. Custom built 3BR/2BA, w/screened porch . Home perfectly positioned on large lot w/ flat, privacy fenced backyard, shed & greenhouse convey. $285,000 MLS:388644

Text P870750 to 85377 for more info & pictures Charming southern home has incredible views of Lake Murray. Spacious and open floor plan, connecting kitchen to FR & formal DR, office, and formal LR. 4BR/3.5BA $280,000 MLS:382580

Text P870752 to 85377 for more info & pictures Spacious 5BR, 4.5BA floor plan in a cul de sac. Office/ formal LR and DR, gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, large pantry, bonus room ideal for a man cave or theater room. $299,900 MLS:389474

• 100% financing • Down payment assistance • Credit Repair Call 803-665-8160 for more information

Why Buy Now? Ask a REALTOR® - Vol. 33, No. 10 - Page 5

Madison A. Ballagh Broker/REALTOR 803-319-0754 Alicia Ballagh REALTOR 803-727-5208 ®

®

"Exceeding Your Expectations!"

Madison@ColumbiaHomeSells.com www.ColumbiaHomeSells.com • www.ColumbiaHomeSold.com

Text P245334 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Allow us to List your Home & if not under contract in 45 Days Receive $1000 Credit at Closing!

228 Oakbrook Village Rd - 3BR/2BA, Beautiful starter home in quiet neighborhood just minutes from Fort Jackson, the interstates and shopping. $101,500 MLS/ID:38511

Zillow Premier Agent with over 50 5 Star Reviews!

Text T11931546 to 85377 for more info & pictures

Text P321438 to 85377 for more info & pictures

1228 Shull Island Road - Lakefront on 1.79 acres & 100' of deep water. 4BR/3.5BA, 2 MBR suites. Views from every room! Lg wood deck with screened gazebo. $675,000 MLS/ID:356946

Text P829504 to 85377 for more info & pictures

10 Old Park Circle - 3BR/2.5BA in the heart of Sandhills. Very open floorplan. Over 1600 SF of comfortable living space. Kitchen with island. Deck with well kept backyard. $230,000 MLS/ID:386454

1191 Coralbean Way - Awesome 5BR/2.5BA family home in grand neighborhood of NE Columbia. Close to shopping, restaurants and much more! $155,000 MLS/ID:388969

D L O

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Text P539357 to 85377 for more info & pictures

1402 May Oak Circle - Beautiful 3BR/2BA in the Summit! Granite countertops & new SS appliances. Nice large deck overlooks large privacy fenced backyard. Fresh paint. $99,000 MLS/ID: 386285

Text P562872 to 85377 for more info & pictures

333 Richland Farms Rd - Very private 3BR/3.5BA on 15.2 acres. 2 car garage, pool, shed, lg carport. Horses welcome. Close to Fort Jackson & Shaw AFB. $230,000 MLS/ID:371883

D L O

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Text P277245 to 85377 for more info & pictures

104 Riverwalk Way - Cozy 3BR/2BA located in Riverwalk. Very spacious w/finished basement, mudroom & side entry garage. Deck & fenced backyard. $102,000 MLS/ID:387946

Text P539357 to 85377 for more info & pictures

1818 Taylor Dr - Beautiful Lot on lake Murray.

Build your dream home! 100 feet of lake frontage on big water! Incredible views all the way to the dam. $300,000 MLS/ID:365094

• 100% Financing Available • No Money Down Loan Program • VA & Rural Housing

803-732-5787

Text P245332 to 85377 for more info & pictures

1765 Lost Creek - Amazing 4BR/2.5BA in Chestnut Hill Plantation. Open Floorplan, Private fenced backyard and tons of amenities within the community. $164,000 MLS/ID:382827

NMLS#803458

www.SCMortgageOptions.com

Page 6 - View Over 750,000 Homes On RealEstateBook.com - Vol. 33, No. 10

Chip Jefferson

803-808-1260 • 803-360-0491 columbia@gibbsrealty.net • www.gibbsrealty.net

Midlands Office

107A Vista Oaks Dr, Lexington, SC 29072

Top 3% Listing agent in Midland SC For a free home evaluation call today!

Text P468000 to 85377 for more info & pictures 3412 Hinbet Drive - Spacious 5BR/3.5BA home on .54 acres. Custom built w/so many upgrades to list like Hardwood, tile, granite and a wonderful flowing floorplan w/huge rooms. $542,900 MLS/ID:384199

Text P831766 to 85377 for more info & pictures 229 Southberry Park - Wonderful double front porch. Formal LR & DR, 4BR/2.5BA w/kids den upstairs. SS appl and granite.

Screened in porch, inground pool, pond and so much more! $269,000 MLS/ID:386792

Text P271530 to 85377 for more info & pictures 309 Roosevelt St - 3BR/2BA Great all brick home is good location. Good investment with tenant in place. $70,000 MLS:388377

Text P591330 to 85377 for more info & pictures 600 Carola ln - Great 4BR/3BA Floorplan in popular Woodcreek on cul-de-sac.

Downstairs formals with large Den and eat in kitchen. $169,900 MLS:373283

Text P601440 to 85377 for more info & pictures 101 Iron Horse Rd - 3BR/2BA, New carpet and paint makes this one shine like new.

Huge great-room with open kitchen.Large master bedroom and bath. Bonus room over garage. $131,500 MLS/ID:373881

Text P485743 to 85377 for more info & pictures 133 Thames Valley Ct - All completely restored and move in ready. New paint, carpet and appliances. Close to everything Irmo. Great Fireplace. $69,900 MLS:388904

Text P511464 to 85377 for more info & pictures 312 Bridleridge Rd - Cozy 3BR/2BA ranch home w/new carpet and paint. .78 acre lot that’s wooded and private back yard. Open spacious floorplan with oversized bedrooms.

Huge greatroom. $114,900 MLS:388872

Text P864652 to 85377 for more info & pictures 139 Torreyglen Dr - 3BR/2.5BA Completely made over. Great floorplan with plenty of space for the growing family. Community pond and pool. Walking trail $174,900 MLS:389957

We want to be your choice for home loans in the Midlands.

3 locations to serve you locally:

Local Decisions - Local Underwriting

Downtown West Columbia Lexington Ballentine (Coming Soon)

866.851.3000 NMLS# 456430

Apply online today! https://www.securityfederalbank.com

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The Psychology Behind Paint Colors You look around your home and decide you need a refreshing change. Painting any room in the home is a sure fire way to make it feel new and clean! Before you run to the hardware store and grab the first color that tickles your fancy, put some thought into the color - and some emotion, too. As a matter of fact, proponents of what is referred to as “color psychology” believe that the color of a room in the home is more than just a way to tie in the throw pillows. It’s a matter of emotional well-being. So what’s the right hue for you?

CONSIDER THE ROOM’S PURPOSE The intended function of a room is a heavy deciding factor on which colors to use. Ask yourself, “What mood do we want this color to set?” Rooms such as an industrious kitchen, well-treaded dining room, or a bustling living room could go in a direction of colors that are thought to draw out conversation, appetites, and energy. According to WebMD.com, the color red seems to stimulate appetite and may be a good choice for a dining room or kitchen, as is yellow. Also, earth tones such as brown or tan stimulate social gatherings because they are warm and inviting, and a great choice for a living room. Then there’s the flip side of stimulation – relaxation. For a bedroom, stick with cool tones like blues, greens, and lavenders. These are thought to reduce stress and promote sleep. Red on the wall of a child’s room could go as far as to lead to restless sleep, so sacrifice the childhood character decor in favor of a cooler hue.

on the color that the light emits, the paint will either absorb or reflect the light in different ways, thus varying the paint’s shade to the human eye. A color can vary greatly in appearance in two different rooms that receive two different types of light. For this reason, it is suggested to observe the sun’s pattern and take notes before making a decision. For example, if the sunlight flows from the north, this will be a cooler tone of natural light in a room. On the other hand, if the sunlight flows into a room from the west, you could end up with an overwhelming warm tone if you’ve painted your wall red or orange.

PERSONAL STYLE MATTERS If color psychology isn’t your cup of tea, then stick with what’s pleasing to your eye. Take your current decor into consideration. Try to pick a color that pulls out favorite designs in your rugs or wall decor. If you grew up with fond memories in a home with specific colors, then stick with those same colors in your home. Your experience with a color can also have an effect on your mood, so do what pleases your paint palette.

DON’T LEAVE OUT LIGHTING Lighting can have a great effect on how the hue is perceived once it’s on the wall. We see several different types of lighting in a house, ranging from fluorescent, incandescent, and halogen bulbs, to natural sunlight. Depending

Source: WebMD.com, Sherwin-Williams.com

Neighborhood Details to Consider When Buying a Home When it comes to investing in real estate, it’s not only the house that should be considered, but also the location, neighborhood, and everything in its proximity. Buying your first home can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Before finalizing the exact home to buy, here are some helpful tips to determine if that home’s neighborhood is the right one for you and your family.

Every neighborhood has rules.

Depending on your lifestyle now, your next home may be in a neighborhood with laws that you’re completely not accustomed to. According to a recent article by real estate expert Bill Gassett, there may be restrictions on where you can park (some neighborhoods do not allow parking on the street) as well as which outdoor renovations that are allowed or prohibited on the land you own.

These rules are referred to as “restrictive covenants” and can put a damper on your daily life in the new house.

Learn them before you move in.

Do you have easy access to your favorite hobbies?

Another huge factor that comes into play is your new home’s proximity to favorite activities or hobbies. Many people tend to overlook what they’ll do in their downtime because they’re busy looking for a place that’s close to work or school. Don’t you want to live in a home that’s convenient for both business and pleasure? Having fun is just as important!

Know the HOA or Property Manager.

Before a decision is made, gain an understanding of the type of neighborhood you’re getting yourself into. Is it owned by a Homeowner’s Association or property manager? What are their rules? What about reviews? According to Forbes Magazine, you may be able to find reliable ratings online if it’s managed by a large company. Do your research, talk to neighbors, and read up on local news stories to determine if it’s the right neighborhood for you.

The noise factor.

If interested in a home whose neighborhood is right near a busy road, keep in mind how noisy it’ll be. There are a number of things that can cause noise around your home, such as nearby event centers, stadiums, pedestrian traffic, and crowded streets. Some people are okay with a little noise if that means they’re closer to the hustle and bustle of the city. If that’s not you, then you should probably re-think the location of your home and neighborhood.

Changes in property taxes & insurance rates

It’s important to know that taxes and insurance can vary according to the area or county. Learn how your area handles taxes before you move in. Otherwise, it will come as an unpleasant surprise when you discover that you actually owe much more than expected. Living in this new area may also have an impact on your car insurance rates.

Money-Saving Tax Benefits for New & Long-Term Homeowners Buying and owning a home is not only an important step in life, it’s an area rich with benefits when it comes to filing an annual tax return. Jackson Hewitt Tax Service reminds tax filers not to forget or overlook the many tax credits and deductions that relate to home ownership.

“From the special tax credit for first-time home buyers, to the numerous tax incentives for making energy efficient changes to a home, there are multiple reasons for taxpayers to speak with a tax preparer and ensure they take advantage of all home ownership-related credits and deductions for which they are eligible,” said Mark Steber, chief tax officer, Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc. Steber reminds homeowners to keep the following tax benefits top-of-mind as they gather their tax-related documents to have their tax return prepared: First Time Home Buyer Credit: The IRS allows first-time home buyers to withdraw up to $10,000 from their traditional IRA (and even Roth IRAs) penalty-free to help with the purchase of the home. You can also borrow half of your 401(k) balance up to $50,000 for the purchase of a home. But, the interest you pay on that 401(k) loan, unlike a mortgage loan, isn’t tax-deductible.

New Home Energy Credits: Taxpayers can receive a credit for making their homes more energy efficient by caulking doors and windows, adding new insulation to attics, buying an energy efficient hot water heater or air conditioner and more. The credit amount is a total of 30% of the cost of qualifying improvements, up to $1,500.

Tax Deductions and Buying a Home: Most of the expenses incurred when buying a home are not deductible. Yet there are certain closing costs (such as brokers’ commissions, attorney’s fees, recording fees, abstract fees, surveys, title searches, owner’s title insurance policy and transfer taxes) that are added to the basis of your residence that are important to keep track of. When you sell, the basis is needed to calculate any gain or loss.

Real Estate Taxes: You may deduct real estate taxes in the year paid. They are generally reported on Form 1098 (Mortgage Interest Statement) or on your county real estate tax assessment statement. You should also deduct any prorated taxes collected from you at closing. These amounts are usually included on Form 1098, but you can get the total paid at your local tax assessor’s office if they are not reported on your Form 1098.

Local Real Property Taxes and Assessments: Local taxes are deductible if they are charged uniformly against all property in the jurisdiction and if they are based on the assessed value of your home. Many states and counties also impose local benefit taxes for improvements to property, such as assessments for streets, sidewalks, and sewer lines. These taxes cannot be deducted but you can increase the cost basis of your property by the amount of the assessment.

Mortgage Interest: The amount of mortgage interest you paid on your principal residence (or second home) is deductible if you itemize deductions. This amount is generally shown on Form 1098 (Mortgage Interest Statement). You can also deduct the points paid to purchase your residence, even though some may have been paid by the seller. Mortgage insurance premium payments that are related to the purchase of your home are deductible annually.

In addition, Steber notes that taxpayers should keep records of the cost of improvements made that add value to the home, such as landscaping, patios, swimming pools, decks, room additions and roof replacements, as these items can be added to the cost basis. Repairs such as fixing leaks, repairing roofs and painting are not deductible and are not basis additions. The cost of your own labor is not deductible.

For more information, visit www.jacksonhewitt.com.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. Š2015. All rights reserved.

Holiday SELLER

THE

DILEMMA

TO DECORATE OR NOT TO DECORATE Many homeowners are hesitant when it comes to putting their home on the market to sell during winter months, especially around the holidays. Fortunately, you don’t need to sacrifice your holiday spirit to attract buyers and sell your home. We have put together a list of top decorating and staging tips during this joyous time of year.

DE-CLUTTER & STAGE BEFORE YOU DECORATE Before adding holiday décor into the mix, prepare your home by cleaning and staging. This means getting rid of all your random clutter and tchotchkes throughout the house so you can make room for some sensible holiday style.

TONE DOWN THE TREE. You don’t need to sacrifice the holiday tree when selling your home during the winter months. You do, however, need to trim down the size. Consider using a smaller tree that fits the space without making the room feel crowded. Use silver or gold solid color ornaments and a simple strand of clear lights.

MATCH YOUR CURRENT STYLE & PALETTE Adding in decorations with colors that have nothing to do with the existing color scheme may do more harm than good. Instead, complement your living room’s soft blue palette with subtle white snowflakes or a silver wreath.

At the end of the day, you want buyers to be able to visualize their own belongings in your home, so remember to keep all your personal family ornaments and pictures packed away, de-clutter, clean everything, and use subtle holiday accents that will complement your home’s already existing style and color palette.

BE COURTEOUS TO OTHER RELIGIOUS VIEWS Be mindful that there are many different types of religions that celebrate during the holiday season.

I recently read an article by HGTV that highlighted Amy Powers, owner of Accent Home Staging & Interiors of Atlanta. According to Powers, “you want to keep neutrality throughout, so you can attract any type of buyer – no matter what your religion is, you’re not going to feel offended by a nutcracker.”

DON’T GO OVERBOARD WITH LIGHTS Less is more when it comes to decorating with holiday lights while selling a home. Don’t be a Clark Griswold! Instead of covering your home with overthe-top light displays, settle for a simple string of lights that will complement the exterior features and architecture.

DON’T BE ONE OF THOSE HOMES. Once the Holidays are over, don’t be one of those homes that leave their decorations out for several more weeks or months. If you are serious about selling your home then take down the decorations after the Holidays and prepare the house to attract potential buyers.

Your Recipe of theMonth Whether you’re entertaining for guests or simply cooking treats for your family, here’s a delectable new recipe to try this holiday season.

BRead pudding with whiskey sauce For the Pudding: Bread Pudding: 6 cups cubed, stale French or Italian Bread 1 apple peeled, cored and grated 1 cup sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup golden raisins 3 large eggs 2 cups milk ½ tsp nutmeg ¼ tsp cinnamon butter pinch of salt

Whiskey Sauce: 1 ½ cups water ¼ tsp nutmeg 1 ½ Tbsp corn starch 2 Tbsp butter ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar ¼ cup good-quality whiskey or brandy

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

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8.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Combine bread, apple and raisins. Set aside.

Beat eggs until frothy; beat in sugar. Add milk, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.

Pour over bread mixture. Set aside for 15 minutes for bread to soak up liquid.

Generously butter a 1 ½ quart casserole dish.

Pour bread mixture into dish; place on top of a larger jelly roll pan in the oven and pour boiling water into the outer pan to the depth of 1 inch.

Bake for 40-45 minutes or until toothpick

inserted in center comes out almost clean.

Prepare and serve with Whiskey Sauce.

For the Whiskey Sauce: 1.

2.

3.

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Combine water, sugar, and nutmeg in a saucepan; bring to a boil.

In a small bowl, mix whiskey or brandy with cornstarch; add to sugar mixture.

Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.

Blend in butter until melted.

Serve and enjoy!

5 Ways to Save Energy When

it’s cold outside

As outdoor temperatures drop and home heating costs are on the rise, it’s now more important than ever to make sure your home is properly prepped for winter. Here are some cold weather tips and easy DIY projects to help save money and energy this winter:

Attic First, check to see if there is any missing or damaged insulation that can be readily replaced. A lower-cost alternative to block unwanted airflow is to place sheets of foam polystyrene plastic on top of existing insulation. You can also keep the cold air in the attic and out of the living area by installing some plastic foam weather stripping around the attic door.

Fireplace Although a fireplace is meant to heat a room, it often allows cold air to enter a house. An inexpensive product known as a “chimney pillow” or “fireplace plug” can reduce airflow when the fireplace isn’t being used. After installation, the pillow’s inflation tube hangs down into the fireplace as a reminder to remove it before lighting a fire in your living room.

Windows & Doors Make sure your home is properly insulated by inspecting doors, windows, and apply caulk or weather-stripping where necessary to keep cold air out.

You should also close drapes, blinds and garage doors to preserve heat and prevent cold air from sneaking inside. There is a wide variety of lowcost weather stripping you can purchase that helps trap air, providing a barrier between indoors and out.

Switches, Outlets & Ducts Less obvious places that can waste energy are electrical switches and outlets. You can easily prevent air from sneaking in and out by placing pre-cut, inexpensive plastic foam insulation sheets behind switch and outlet covers.

Check your home’s unheated areas for leaks in heating ducts, including your basement, attic and garage. If you find leaks, they can be easily sealed with plastic caulks or polyurethane foam sealants. These low-cost products are designed to fill cracks and crevices while keeping away moisture and mildew.

Follow these energy and money saving tips for a cozy home this winter and all year round. Many homes have areas that are not properly sealed, letting warm air escape your home and allowing cold air to sneak in. Helping to seal these leaks in problem areas can provide a quick and easy return on time and money invested.

HOW-TO

Renovate Your Home Without Exceeding Your Neighborhood Value

Before you decide to invest in major renovations on your home, it’s important to understand that not all remodels will increase the value. It is certainly possible to over-remodel, and you don’t want it to exceed the value of your neighbors’ homes. Here are some ways to get the highest return on investment (ROI) possible when the time comes to sell your home.

Projects always worth your while

Make improvements that will add value over time

There are specific renovation projects that can deliver the greatest effect on your ROI, regardless of the real estate market’s current state or the value of surrounding homes. According to real estate expert Robert Stammers in a recent article in Investopedia, these can be projects such as an addition of a wood deck, kitchen and bathroom upgrades as well as window replacements.

Some home improvements, like upgrading the technological features of a home, will not have a lasting impact, and may even bring down the home value. These types of renovations are at a higher risk of becoming obsolete and outdated as years pass. Technology and styles change all the time, so focus on improvements that are less likely to be impacted by time and are worth your investment.

Factor in location

Renovations that will pay you back

A common mistake that homeowner tend to make is renovating their homes to the point where it exceeds the value of surrounding homes. The fact of the matter is that people look in a specific neighborhood because of its proximity to nearby businesses or recreation and it’s in their price range. If improvements done to your home are much higher than homes around you, it’s unlikely that they’ll want to pay more for those improvements, even if they’re interested.

Regardless of whether a homeowner is planning to sell or not, the ultimate objective of taking on a renovation is to revel in the enjoyment you get from living in an updated home while gaining considerable profit from that investment. There are many tools out there that show the kind of profit you can expect from specific home remodels. A perfect example of this is Remodeling magazine’s “Cost vs. Value” annual report.

HERE ARE SOME OF THE FINDINGS FROM THE 2015 REMODELING COST VS. VALUE REPORT Projects that deliver the highest percentage of return on investment Entry door replacement (steel): 101.8% Garage door replacement: 88.4% Siding replacement (fiber-cement): 84.3% Siding replacement (vinyl): 80.7% Deck addition (wood): 80.5%

Projects that deliver the lowest percentage of return on investment Sunroom addition: 48.5% Home office remodel: 48.7% Master suite addition: 53.7% Garage addition: 54.7% Bathroom addition: 57.8%

They are used everyday, have much weight to bear, and are crucial for organization. What is it, you may ask?

The answer is simple – your kitchen cabinets. These cabinets are the main focal point in your kitchen and more than likely take up the most wall space than any other permanent fixture in the home. They are also one of the more expensive items to replace when remodeling.

But what to do when your kitchen cabinets are looking drab and dull?

The Upkeep: Maintain the Original Look If you love your cabinets just the way they are, then proper maintenance and cleaning can keep them beautiful. Wipe up splatters and spills right away so the food substance does not get the chance to harden. If there are already some hard to scrub places, opt for gentle cleaners. Something as simple as equal parts vinegar and water will be gentle enough to scrub away debris. For the more stubborn of food goo, try letting undiluted vinegar sit for a few minutes and then scrape it away with a nonabrasive brush or sponge.

The Overhaul: Get Creative When you own your home, there are no limits to your creativity! A crucial step in this DIY process is to label all hardware, doors, and drawers so you can reset your house quickly when you’re finished.

Choose your favorite color and paint your cabinets for a new, clean look.

Feeling particularly bold? Think of stencils, contact paper, vinyl lettering – the sky’s the limit! Try using tape to create your own designs and to keep the lines cleaner. Cabinets do not always have to be a single color either. Some folks go two-toned to add depth. Spray paint your hinges and replace your drawer pulls to finish the look.

Your Kitchen Cabinets: To Upkeep, Overhaul, or Uproot?

Go Pro Perhaps creativity isn’t in your repertoire? No problem. There are various kinds of companies offering options such as professional staining, painting, or refacing. Cabinet refacing is a less expensive method than replacing your entire cabinet set.

There are several different approaches to the art. Firstly, rigid thermofoil, or RTF, is a plastic coating over a fiberboard, which is both durable and affordable. Secondly, laminate is a more known material, offering hundreds of different designs to fit any fancy.

Finally, real wood veneers are the most expensive of the three, but also offer a beautiful real wood look and can be stained to your liking.

The Uproot: The Remodel Option Of course, with all three of these above stated routes, there’s no cure for structure. If your cabinets are lacking the structural integrity to bear their burdens, then they have to go. It’s a major safety issue, not to mention expensive, if any or all of them were to come tumbling down. Giving them a facelift won’t do anything but make the danger beautiful. Also, with refacing or painting, there is no solution for a bad kitchen design. If the kitchen cabinets aren’t placed well in the first place, then a remodel is a great option to ensure that this well used room is at it’s peak functionality.

With careful consideration for which option is best for you, your kitchen will stay beautiful and functional for many happy years to come!

Source: SFGate.com, HouseLogic.com

ust Bunnies, Bacteria and Dirt!

OH MY! OH MY! OH MY! OH MY! OH MY! OH MY!

Dust Bunnies, Bacteria, and Dirt! Oh My! Swept the floors? Check. Vacuumed the carpets? Double check. Wiped down the counters and toilets? Done.

It feels like you’ve done all there is to do for this cleaning day. But what if we told you that there are still germs thriving in unreached places in the home? We’ve learned some of the most unclean places in the average home, and we are wanting to share!

Ready to get your hands dirty? Let’s go.

HANDLES, SWITCHES, AND FAUCETS Once we learned that handles, switches, and faucets are some of the dirtiest places in the home, it made sense. These are the most touched, yet the least cleaned, because they are small and less threatening than places like the floor.

When doing your regular routine in an area of the house, make sure to give these places a friendly swipe, especially the toilet flush handle.

STANDING WATER Any place in the house where water can sit is a breeding ground for bacteria. The spots just around the drains in a bathtub or in sinks are the more obvious of spots and probably make your cleaning list. But here’s one for the list: the coffee maker.

The water reservoir breeds bacteria and is rarely cleaned by most people. A rule of thumb is flush out your joe machine monthly with undiluted white vinegar, followed by 2 or 3 flushes of fresh water.

NO MAN’S LAND The spaces that lie out of sight, untouched, and out of mind are the favorite hiding spots for dust bunnies. Dust is made up of skin, insect feces and exoskeletons, dirt, pet dander, and more. Don’t let it make its

home in your home! Think of spots such as on top of your kitchen cabinets, decorative architectural ledges, and door frames.

Make it a habit to give these places a wipe down at least once a month.

THE BATHROOM We admit the bathroom is not often overlooked, but there are a couple of places to note that need some attention.

For one: the wall behind your toilet. Wipe this down occasionally with a disinfecting wipe. Wipe down the shower and bathtub after use. Otherwise, specifics such as mold, fungi, and staph bacteria can grow.

Finally, the toothbrush holder. According to the Huffington Post, NSF international found that 27% had coliform bacteria and 14% had Staph. This is due to the junk dripping from a rinsed brush and the fecal matter that may splash upon it during a toilet flush.

WELL USED KITCHEN APPLIANCES Inside the refrigerator is an often glazed over spot because we go in to get what we need and leave the messes in the dark once again. Take the time to remove all the food from the fridge and give it a wipe down. The best time for this is before grocery shopping day. Another spot is under the stove and in between the stove and countertops. Finally, wipe down the knobs and buttons of your appliances to keep them sanitary with each use.

With so many places to keep in mind, your best option may to be hire a professional cleaning servicing company. Often, these folks come well equipped to tackle all the jobs your house needs and they know where the dust accumulates. Dust and bacteria can hide, but they can’t run!

Source: huffingtonpost.com | bhg.com

Why Buy Now? Ask a REALTOR® - Vol. 33, No. 10 - Page 21

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