EPUB: SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT

• The 411 on Flooring

• Overhauling an Attic 3 factors to consider before converting an attic Page 10

Popular kitchen flooring materials Page 8

Build a Better Lawn Without Breaking the Bank Budget-friendly ways to upgrade a landscape Page 6

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Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

Table Of Contents

Page 3 Planning ahead is important to a successful renovation Page 4 Tips for negotiating with contractor Page 5 Pros and cons to open floor plan homes Page 6 Budget-friendly ways to upgrade a landscape Page 7 How to cut costs on home renovations Page 8 Low cost ways to renovate living areas Page 9 Popular kitchen flooring materials Page 9 Explaining easements setbacks and CCR’s Page 10 Three factors rto consider before converting am attic Page 10 What is a helioc?

Did you know?

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e m i T ney ace e v Sa e Mo nt Pl e Sav aym P s e ey

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ertain home improvement projects are more complex than others.

Projects that involve working with gas lines are among the most complicated and risky undertakings, and even seasoned do-ityourselfers are urged to leave such tasks to certified professionals. According to Angi, the average cost to move a gas line is between $15 and $25 per linear foot, and homeowners can expect to pay an additional $1 to $10 per linear foot for pipe materials.

A natural gas plumber can install, extend and repair natural gas lines and ensure that the project is completed safely, on time and within homeowners’ budgets. Angi notes that the average cost to move a gas line is between $250 and $750 for the whole project.

However, if a buried line must be excavated, that cost could run into the thousands of dollars.

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Planning ahead is important to a successful renovation

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emodeling projects are significant undertakings.

Homeowners must consider a host of variables before any such project can begin.

While planning ahead may take time, it is essential to ensuring successful completion of a renovation project.

Consider these prerenovation planning pointers to help any job go smoothly.

Determine your motivation for renovating Renovation projects often involve balancing needs and wants, and determining if a project is a necessity or a luxury can set the timeline and course of the project. Is the roof leaking? If so, immediate action is necessary. Could the kitchen be a bit

more functional?

If the kitchen is still manageable, a homeowner may be able to wait a little bit to get better prices on appliances or contracting services.

Separating needs from wants helps homeowners map out a viable timeline that maximizes productivity and affordability.

realistic overview of the project, map out projected costs, point out areas that could be troublesome, and may have industry contacts that can keep supply costs low. Even if a homeowner will do a portion of the job, a contractor can do the bulk of the work and keep the project on budget.

Get professional advice

Get necessary permits

Many homeowners are under the impression that doing the work themselves can save a considerable amount of money.

This may be the case for homeowners with renovation experience. But by and large, professional contractors are an asset to any renovation.

They can provide a

Permits are designed to ensure the work is being done to code and in a safe manner. However, they are not without additional costs and processing time, and that can cause some homeowners to skip this step. According to the home information site The Spruce, building permits cost

anywhere from $400 to about $2,200 for new home construction.

Building permits for smaller projects can cost $100 or less, and typically are based on a percentage of the anticipated cost of the project.

A permit may be issued the day the application is submitted, while other cities and towns may issue permits up to two or more weeks later.

Factor permit fees and processing times into the renovation plan.

If it comes to light a homeowner did work without a required permit, he or she may face penalties; may have to tear out work done to have it inspected or redone; some may be unable to sell a home until permits have been obtained and work has been done to code. Homeowners insurance coverage also may be affected if homeowners do not obtain the proper permits.

Other considerations when planning a renovation include writing out a strict budget, gathering inspiration, drawing up to-scale renovation plans, pouring over material reviews, and getting recommendations for reliable professionals to do the job. While not every obstacle can be avoided, planning is a good way to start successfully.

Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

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Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

Tips for negotiating with contractors

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pring is the season for fixing up a home. Homeowners who aren’t interested in doing the work themselves turn to contractors to ensure the job is done not only to code, but on time and efficiently.

After receiving an initial estimate from a contractor, homeowners may wonder if there is any additional wiggle room in contractors’ costs.

Certain contractors are willing to negotiate while others are firm in their prices. However, learning the basics of negotiation can put homeowners in position to save

money on dream renovations.

Do your homework Getting the best price typically requires shopping around and not settling on the first bid. Experts recommend getting at least three estimates on the same job — and be sure to let each contractor know that you are soliciting multiple bids. This alone may entice a specific contractor to give you his or her best offer up front. Avoid simply choosing the lowest bid. Look at quality of work, reputation and reviews. If you like a costly contractor more than another,

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see if that contractor is willing to match a lower bid to win the job.

Pick the right season As with other industries, home renovation work heats up during certain seasons or times of year. General contractors may be more willing to negotiate for a lower price depending on when their busy season may be. Jobs may slow down in winter, for example.

give you jobs that are within your abilities, which can shave dollars off the final price.

Know your rights and laws

Understand the laws governing contract language in your state or province.

Contracts should also spell out the change order process so that expectations of changes and costs will be known in advance.

These are just some of the tactics Talk about supplies homeowners can use when negotiating the Even after getting a price of home good bid, you may be able to speak with your contractor about lowering costs even more by choosing less costly supplies. Find out if contractors can source materials from a low-cost supplier.

In addition, discuss if you can purchase your own supplies.

Ask to do a portion Be honest with the contractor about your budget and figure out if there is any way for you to do some of the work to lower costs.

The contractor can

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Pros and cons to open-concept homes

Open-concept homes have become increasingly popular in recent years. An openconcept home is one in which the rooms flow into one another with limited obstruction from walls or other barriers. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 84 percent of new single-family homes have fully or partially open layouts.

While they may seem like a new trend, open floor plans are anything but.

Early American homes featured open, often one- or two-room units built around the central kitchen/hearth. This maximized warmth and functionality. Homes evolved as incomes

grew, and soon homes had several smaller rooms with specialized functions.

What’s old has become new again. However, before diving head first into a new home purchase or a big renovation to realize an open-concept dream, consider the pros and cons of this type of setup to determine if it’s really right for you.

Advantages of open floor plans

Open floor plans facilitate the flow of natural light throughout a space and can promote air flow, helping to reduce warm or cool pockets of air in otherwise closed-off rooms.

Open homes make

socializing easier, even when people are doing different things. While someone is cooking dinner in the kitchen, he or she can still interact with someone else playing video games in the family room or paying bills in the home office. Entertaining also is easier, as mingling with guests is much more convenient when walls are not getting in the way.

A smaller home can feel much larger if it employs an open concept. The square footage is not divided into smaller quarters, which sometimes are rooms (such as formal dining rooms) that are only used a few times per year. This eliminates underused spaces and opens up sight lines in the layout.

The value of real estate has risen dramatically since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and prospective buyers may prefer an openconcept plan because it can help them minimize building costs.

Disadvantages of open floor plans

Open layouts are not for everyone. The same sense of space that occurs when walls are taken down may make

rooms feel cavernous and less cozy, particularly in homes with ample square footage. In addition, privacy can be hard to come by when all rooms feed into one another.

When the kitchen is not separate from the family room space, that makes it easy for noise to compromise the area’s comfort levels.

There is no hiding from noise in an open floor plan, as sounds from voices, television shows and appliances tend to echo and blend together. And if the home is a single-story layout, those noises from the main living areas also may carry to adjacent bedrooms.

Smoke and smells are another thing to consider. When something on the stove spills over, a small range hood will not be practical for clearing smoke from a large space. Though the aroma of freshly cooked food is enticing, it can make it hard for cooks to keep guests out of the kitchen.

Open-concept homes are popular, but homeowners should weigh the pluses and minuses to see if this trend is truly right for them.

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anton Lumber Company provides lumber and building materials as well as hardware and tools for contractors and do-it-yourselfers alike.

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At Canton Lumber you will find a large selection of lumber, building materials, energy efficient doors and windows, plumbing and much more.

You will also find electrical supplies at Canton Lumber. As well as an amazing selection of tools and hardware.

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Ask one of our knowledegable salespeople about Valspar paint. Valspar has been a industry leader for many years.

Canton Lumber Company started in Canton, Texas in the Spring of 2002. In the wake of the

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Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

The Deen Kubota Story

Deen Kubota has been servicing customers in the Northeast Texas and Dallas - Fort Worth area for over 85 years.

We’ve been family owned and operated for four generations.

Originally founded in 1933 as J.E. Deen & Sons, we begin as an International Harvester dealer in downtown Wills Point, TX. Around 1951 we changed our name to Deen Implement Company as we continued to supply and service agricultural customers in and around Van Zandt County. In 1978 we added Kubota Tractors to our product offering.

Through outstanding quality and reputation, Kubota has grown to be our primary brand.

To further highlight our long heritage and commitment to the Kubota brand, we’ve changed our name to Deen Kubota beginning in 2018.

Since our agricultural beginnings, we’ve expanded to support construction equipment, turf equipment, and hobby farmers.

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our many customers over the decades for allowing us grow and prosper. We look forward to continuing to offer our customers exceptional service and quality products for many years to come.

Here in the digital age you can now shop from the comfort of your office or your home or farm with our website . Find us online at www.deenkubota.com. You can order parts. Shop for new equipment and even get financed on our secure website.

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Budget-friendly ways to upgrade a landscape

A new walkway is a small project that can still offer a significant upgrade over a home’s existing landscape.

A

n inviting, well-tended landscape can add significant curb appeal to a home.

Such a landscape also can serve as a point of pride and welcome homeowners each evening as they arrive home from work.

Landscaping projects run the gamut from simple changes that can be accomplished on a weekend afternoon to more significant and costly undertakings that require the work of a professional. Budgetconscious homeowners

may be looking for simpler projects, and the following are some less costly ways to upgrade a landscape.

Add a pop of color with planters. Aweinspiring colors can make a landscape stand out from surrounding properties. Flowers, bushes and plants may be the first thing homeowners consider when trying to add color to their lawns, but planters can provide a more immediate way to give exterior grounds some color. Bold planters

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won’t lose their color in a matter of weeks like many flowers do, and homeowners can switch planters so the colors align with the season. For example, some pastel planters can evoke the spirit of spring, while orange planters can be filled with mums to give a landscape an autumnal feel.

Plant perennials around the property.

Well-maintained perennials grow back each year, making them ideal for homeowners who don’t have the time or desire to map out new gardening arrangements each spring.

Planting perennials also is a great way to add color around the property without breaking the bank.

Upgrade walkways.

Though it’s more expensive than adding planters and planting perennials, upgrading old and cracked walkways is a great way to give a property a whole new look. According to the renovation experts at HomeAdvisor, homeowners typically pay between $6 and $12 per square foot for new concrete walkway installation.

Homeowners working

on a budget can target spots where walkways have already cracked and fix those areas first before continuing the project piecemeal until all the old walkways have been replaced.

Plant to create privacy.

Homeowners spent more time at home than ever before during the pandemic, and some might have grown tired of seeing what their neighbors are up to. Fencing might be the first solution homeowners consider when looking to make their landscapes more private. But new fencing installation can be expensive, costing homeowners between $1,667 and $4,075 on average, according to BobVila. com. A more costly and natural solution is to plant trees around the perimeter. Speak with a local landscaping professional, who can survey the property to see which trees might thrive and provide the privacy homeowners want.

Creating an inviting landscape doesn’t have to break the bank.

Various small and relatively inexpensive projects can change the look and feel of a home’s exterior.

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How to cut costs on home renovations

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o you still have an avocado green kitchen?

Is your living room

dank and dark?

Perhaps there is only one bathroom for a family of six?

Answering yes to any of these questions could serve as the catalyst for a home renovation project.

Home improvement projects come in all shapes and sizes — some with huge budgets and others that are more costconscious. Regardless of what homeowners hope to achieve with their renovations, a common goal across any price point is a desire to save as much

money as possible.

Home renovations can be expensive, but there are ways to cut costs.

• Assess the merit of the project. Remodeling magazine annually publishes a “Cost vs.

Value Report” that lists the average cost and return on investment homeowners can expect of various types of projects. If you’re planning to sell your home soon, it may be best to focus on repairs and renovations that will generate the most substantial ROI. • Hire a contractor.

Even avid do-ityourselfers can sometimes benefit from a contractor’s expertise, particularly for complex tasks.

Don’t waste money by trying tough jobs yourself; rely on an experienced contractor who can get supplies for less money and will do the job right the first

time. Compare bids from several different contractors and figure out the best value.

• Refurbish existing features.

Rather than a complete gut and rebuild, figure out where you can revitalize existing fixtures and more. For example, refinishing existing cabinets can save you up to 50 percent compared with the cost of new cabinetry, according to Angi (formerly Angie’s List), a cost comparison and business review resource.

•Choose midgrade materials. Certain materials may be all the rage but they come with a higher price tag. Angi reports that granite counters could be $60 to $100 per square foot. However, a composite or laminate that looks like granite and wears well may be $10 to 40 per square

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foot. Figure out where you can choose middleof-the-road materials for maximum value.

• Avoid peak seasons.

You’ll pay more to install a deck or a pool right before the outdoor entertaining season. There also may be a premium to get work done right before a major holiday.

Therefore, consult the calendar to find an off time for a renovation and book it then to save.

• Do some prep work.

You might be able to save by doing some of the demolition and preparatory work yourself. For example, you can tear up old carpeting before the installation of new tile floors. Perhaps you can mend and patch up walls before a paint job.

• Buy a display item.

Former showroom kitchens and baths often are sourced at a fraction of their recommended retail prices, according to Real Homes, a home remodel guide based in the United Kingdom.

Retailers often update their displays and you may score existing showroom items at a discount.

Renovations can be expensive, but there are many different ways to cut costs.

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Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

Low-cost ways to revamp living areas

ome improvement projects require substantial financial investment. But just because a homeowner wants to bring a fresh look indoors doesn’t mean he or she has to break the bank along the way.

Living rooms are some of the most frequently used spaces in a home, and they can use an update from time to time to stay on trend or to make the area more functional for a changing family dynamic. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for breathing new life into living room designs.

Establish the budget.

Homeowners should figure out how many dollars they can designate to a living room makeover before purchasing supplies or hiring out the work.

Figure out the scope

of the remodel, visit stores or suppliers to price out materials, get estimates from contractors, and then plan for some unforseen circumstances along the way to determine if this type of renovation is affordable. If not, scale things back until the project more closely aligns with your budget.

Change the paint color.

Lighter and brighter colors are on trend. A can or two of paint can do wonders for updating a space without a large financial commitment.

Pair that new paint color with new window coverings and complementary throw pillows to pull the theme together with minimal expense.

Update the flooring.

Tired, outdated carpeting or other flooring can use an overhaul. While solid hardwood flooring may be preferable, there are many types of laminate flooring that mimic the looks of popular wood colors and styles for a fraction of the cost. Plus, many are sold at home improvement retailers and even at warehouse clubs or online for reasonable prices.

Laminate flooring also may be a potential DIY job for a skilled homeowner, saving even more money.

Introduce a fireplace Fireplaces were once hot commodities, but that popularity waned in the 1970s and 1980s.

Homeowners with chimneys may discover a fireplace was boarded over and the bare bones still exist that can be renovated to bring back character.

There also are ventless freestanding units that are quite affordable that can mimic the look of a built-in fireplace.

Reupholster instead of replace furniture.

There’s no need to throw away quality furniture if the fabric is the only thing impeding design. New upholstery or even a slipcover can update designs.

Conquer clutter.

Rather than adding something to the living room, remove clutter to give the room a more airy feel. This can instantly change the look of the room. Use cord covers to tame plugs for electronics and remove unnecessary furniture from the room.

Improve lighting.

Another easy and often inexpensive fix is to change lighting fixtures, including using brighter, more energy efficient LED bulbs, and to assess lighting needs to eliminate dark corners of rooms that can make the space seem drab.

Living room spaces in need of an update often can benefit from improvements that go easy on the wallet.

MINEOLA FLOORS HAS YOU COVERED

Many floor covering stores like to bowl the public over with cliches in their ads. At Mineola Floor we know the public is too smart to fall for that nonesence.

Mineola floor instalsl and carries a full variety of, vinyl plank, carpet, wood, and tile flooring.

We also do free measurements.

Mineola Floors is located at Mineola Floors, 701 Greenville Ave, Mineola, TX 75773. Our phone number is (903) 569-8642. You can email us at mineolafloors@ gmail.com.

They are open weekdays 8 - 5, but they will work by appointment in the comfort of your home or business.

Another thing you’ll like about MIneola Floors is they now offer bathroom remodels.

Not sure of what you want or need? Come see our beautiful showroom for inspiration.

When it comes to sales and instillation you can’t beat Mineola Floors. our Sales and Installation staff have over 40 years experence in the floor covering buisness and 25 years of that was right here in the Mineola area.

Let us put our experience to work for you.

If you are looking for high quality and personal service, you’ve come to the right place. At Mineola Floors & Decor we’ll give you the attention and personal service you’ll come to expect and enjoy. We offer the best in all your flooring needs.

A perfect place to begin is with our selection of brands. We carry Carpeting, Ceramic/Porcelain, LVT/LVP, Natural Stone Floors, Vinyl/Resilient, Wood Flooring, and more.

Mineola Floors & Decor has a wide selection of the highest quality products, including: carpeting, ceramic/porcelain, lvt/lvp, natural stone floors, vinyl/resilient, wood flooring, that can put the perfect finishing touch on any room.

Conveniently located in Mineola, Mineola Floor has an experienced and knowledgeable staff who will help you through every stage of selecting the right product for your home or office.

We are located at 701 Greenville Highway, Mineola TX 75773 our phone number is 903569-8642.

Come visit us this week.

Mineola Floors

hardwood • laminate • tile • carpeting • rugs We Also Remodel Bathrooms • We install and carry a full variety of, vinyl plank, carpet, wood, and tile flooring. We also do free measurements open 8 - 5 weekdays Great prices expert installation!

Stop in today for a consultation, and explore the beautiful options for your home.

701 Greenville Ave, Mineola, TX 75773 903-569-8642 • mineolafloors@gmail.com

Popular kitchen flooring materials

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itchens h a v e l o n g been considered the most p o p u l a r gathering spaces in a home. That popularity compels millions of homeowners to renovate their kitchens each year, and the return on those investments is often significant.

A number of variables, including the value of neighboring homes and how quickly homeowners sell their homes after a renovation, affect the return on investment with a given project. According to Remodeling magazine’s “2021 Cost vs. Value Report,” homeowners recouped roughly 72 percent of their investment in a minor kitchen remodel at resale. That’s a sizable return that outperformed other popular upgrades, including vinyl siding replacement and wood deck additions.

When renovating kitchens, homeowners will have to consider various components within the room, including the floors. Average flooring costs can be hard to calculate because they depend so heavily on homeowners’ choice of materials. The following are some popular flooring materials that homeowners can consider as they plan to renovate their kitchens.

• Vinyl: Vinyl flooring is popular thanks in large part to its cost. According to the home

remodeling experts at HomeAdvisor, vinyl flooring installation is much less costly than other types of flooring. But its budgetfriendliness is not the only benefit of vinyl flooring, which HGTV notes is easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for families that routinely confront spills and stains.

HomeAdvisor notes that vinyl is the best waterproof material among all kitchen floors.

• Porcelain/ceramic tile: HomeAdvisor reports that the average cost to install porcelain or ceramic tile flooring is between $885 and $2,994.

That’s less than the average cost to install stone or wood flooring. Porcelain or ceramic tiles can be slippery when they get wet, though HGTV notes that some porcelain flooring tiles have been certified as slipresistant by the Americans with Disabilities Act. • Hardwood: It’s hard to beat hardwood when it comes to aesthetic appeal.

Hardwood can be especially suitable in homes with openconcept floor plans that already have hardwood floors in surrounding rooms.

HomeAdvisor notes that hardwood flooring installation can be costly, which might make it a less realistic option for budget-conscious homeowners. According to

9 WATT HOUSE DOWNTOWN MINEOLA HAS WHAT YOUR HOME NEEDS e are a family owned ration easier and safer, but showroom servicing all such lighting likely won’t of Texas. We are located in work in breakfast nooks and beautiful downtown Mineola. informal dining areas in the We sell brand name lighting kitchen. Recessed lighting products and accessories, in- works best in such areas. cluding interior and exterior In kitchens with no island, lighting fixtures, landscaping under-cabinet lighting can lights, ceiling fans, door and be used to illuminate councabinet hardware, home dé- tertops and simplify meal cor, small furniture and gift preparation.

Many people enjoy the look items. of chandeliers in formal dinLighting in a home serves ing rooms, and such fixtures both practical and aesthetic can be installed directly purposes. It’s easy to maneuabove the dinner table. The ver around a well-lit home, interior design experts at Betreducing the risk of slips and ter Homes & Gardens advise falls, and the right lighting hanging chandeliers roughly can help homeowners cre33 inches above the table in ate their desired ambiance, dining rooms with eight-foot which typically changes depending on which room ceilings, adding three inches for each additional foot you’re in.

When choosing lighting for above eight feet. Darkened their homes, homeowners dining areas may be ideal in must walk a fine line between restaurants, but homeownappearance and functional- ers may want to split the difity. A fixture in the foyer that ference at home and choose instantly impresses visitors dimmable chandeliers for likely won’t prove as awe- their dining rooms. This alinspiring if it’s installed in lows homeowners to dim the the living room. When choos- lights for romantic dinners ing lighting for a home, some but turn them up for family general rules about what gatherings with lots of people works in each room can help around the table. homeowners make the most Adaptability also is important in the living room, where informed decision.

Kitchens are often the busiest homeowners may host anyroom in a home, so lighting thing from movie nights to here can be especially impor- book clubs to parties for the tant. A kitchen often benefits, big game. It can be a tall orboth practically and aestheti- der to accommodate such a cally, from different types of wide range of activities, and lighting. For example, pen- many homeowners come dant lighting above kitchen down to deciding between islands can make meal prepa- recessed lighting and track lighting.

Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

903-865-7002 • www.lonestarshoppertx.com

HGTV, engineered wood planks may be something to consider in the kitchen, as these are designed to be less susceptible to humidity and temperature. That’s an important component to consider in the kitchen, where temperatures can fluctuate while meals are being prepared.

• Stone: Natural stone tile is another popular kitchen flooring material. HomeAdvisor traces that popularity to its wide variety of styles and price points, which make it a realistic option for homeowners working with budgets big and small. Stone tiles also provide a unique look because no two look the same, which might appeal to homeowners who want their kitchen floors to create a one-of-a-kind impression.

Kitchen flooring materials vary widely. That variety ensures there’s a material for any style and budget homeowners are working with.

Explaining Easements setbacks and CCRs

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roperty setbacks as well as easements and conditions, covenants and restrictions (CCRs) must be considered before renovating an existing home or building a new one.

Setbacks are mandated buffers between surveyed property lines and permanent structures. Easements are legal designations that enable individuals or entities to use portions of a person’s property for physical access or to build on it for one reason or another. Easements may be owned by utility companies for gas lines or government agencies when sidewalks are on a private property.

Additional examples of easements include greenbelt conservation easements, beach easements or view easements, according

to The Spruce, a home and lifestyle resource.

CCRs include rules established by many planned communities, subdivisions and planned unit developments. CCRs, easements and property setbacks can affect which type of renovations are allowed on particular plots and may affect the issuance of permits. It’s essential to learn about property easements, CCRs and setbacks in advance and discuss them with contractors when drawing up preliminary plans. Your property deed or plat map as well as the local building inspection offices can highlight any regulations that may be in effect on your property and if they may affect future projects.

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CEILING • WALL • FANS • ISLAND • LAMPS

OUTDOOR • COMMERCIAL HOME DECOR & GIFTS MISC We are a family owned showroom servicing all of Texas.

We are located in beautiful downtown Mineola. We sell brand name lighting products and accessories, including interior and exterior lighting fixtures, landscaping lights, ceiling fans, door and cabinet hardware, home décor, small furniture and gift items.

VISIT US ON LINE THEWATTHOUSE.COM

Making Your World A More Beautiful Place, One Light At A Time

BATHROOM FIXTURES • WALL SCONCES • PICTURE DISPLAY LIGHTS • MINI-CHANDELIER • SWING ARM LIGHTS • FLUSH MOUNTS • BATHROOM FIXTURES • SEMI-FLUSH MOUNTS • WALL SCONCES • PENDANTS • PICTURE DISPLAY LIGHTS • MINI-PENDANTS • SWING ARM LIGHTS • SURFACE MOUNTS MISC. • FOYER CHANDELIERS

COMMERCIAL • WESTGATE MFG.

• DVI BULBS • JVJ CABINET/ BATH HARDWARE WESLOCK DOOR/BATH HARDWARE UNDERCABINET LIGHTS

ISLAND

OUTDOOR

•2 LIGHT •3 LIGHT • 4+ LIGHT

• EXTERIOR FLUSH • MOUNTS • HANGING LIGHTS • WALL LANTERNS • POST LIGHTS • EXTERIOR FANS

LAMPS • TABLE LAMPS • FLOOR LAMPS • DESK LAMPS • SWING ARM LAMPS

HOME DECOR & GIFTS • ACCESSORIES • FURNITURE • WALL DECOR • KALALOU • MUDPIE • CBLK - GANZ

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3 factors to consider before converting an attic

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903-865-7002 • www.lonestarshoppertx.com

Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

t the onset of the COVID19 pandemic, many homeowners suddenly found themselves in need of more usable square footage in their homes. Required to work from home due to social distancing recommendations, millions of working professionals suddenly found themselves setting up shop at kitchen tables or islands, in alcoves, garages, or even walk-in closets. Those makeshift offices were never supposed to be permanent, but as companies loosen workplace policies and embrace full remote or hybrid working arrangements, professionals are seeking more permanent home office solutions.

Home additions are a possibility for

homeowners who need more usable square footage, but add-ons may not be the right option for everyone. If adding on won’t work, homeowners may want to look up ... at their attics.

Attics with ample space can make for ideal home offices, as they’re away from the hustle and bustle of a home’s main floor. That can make it easier to concentrate when everyone is in the house and reduce the likelihood that video calls with colleagues and clients will be interrupted by kids and pets.

Attic conversions are not always possible, and the following are three important factors homeowners may need to consider before they can go forward with such projects.

1. Dimensions: Both the renovation experts

at This Old House and the real estate experts at UpNest indicate that at least half of a finished attic must be a minimum of seven feet high and seven feet wide and 70 square feet. Requirements may differ depending on where homeowners live, but that 7-7-70 guideline is generally the minimum requirement. An attic that fails to meet such requirements won’t necessarily be a lost cause, but it might be costly to make adjustments that ultimately align with local codes.

2. Access: Access is another aspect that must adhere to local safety guidelines. Many attics are accessible only through pulldown ladders, but that will have to change if homeowners repurpose their attic spaces. A staircase that complies with local laws will need to be installed, and contractors can work with homeowners to build that and estimate the cost. Homeowners who simply want to put desks in their attics without going with fullfledged conversions are urged to adhere to local access requirements anyway, as they’re intended to ensure residents can safely escape attics in the case of a fire or another emergency.

3. Climate control: Attics are converted to provide residents with more livable space.

Converted space is only livable if the climate within the attic can be controlled so it’s cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

An existing HVAC unit needs to efficiently heat and cool an extra room.

If it can’t, bills might spike because the rest of the home likely won’t be as comfortable, forcing homeowners to adjust thermostats to offset that discomfort.

That also could affect the unit’s life expectancy. Before going forward with an attic renovation, homeowners should contact HVAC professionals to determine if attic spaces can be serviced with the existing units and ductwork, or if an alternative arrangement must be worked out to make the spaces livable.

Attic conversions can be great ways to make existing spaces more livable. Homeowners considering such projects should pay attention to three important variables as they try to determine if attic conve

What is a HELOC?

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omes symbolize many different things, including an investment in one’s future.

Bank of America says a home equity line of credit, often referred to as a HELOC, is a line of credit secured by your home. It is a revolving credit line that can be used for various expenses. The Credit Union of Southern California reports that a HELOC credit line is issued by a lender and has a limit and variable interest rate that is secured by the equity in your home.

A HELOC is similar to a credit card in that they both provide revolving credit. Investopedia says revolving credit is an agreement that permits an account holder to borrow money repeatedly up to a set dollar limit while also repaying a portion of the current balance due in regular payments over time. But unlike credit cards that may have high interest rates, the interest rates of HELOCs often are lower — a significant advantage when paying off large amounts of borrowed money.Home equity accessed through a HELOC can be a great source of value for future renovations, large purchases such as cars, educational expenses, and alternative debt repayment.

The credit limit of a HELOC depends on your credit standing and unpaid debts. It also is determined by the market value

of the home and how much you owe on your mortgage. According to Credit Karma, banks tend to limit the amount borrowed to no more than 85 percent of the appraised value of the home, minus what is owed on the mortgage.

HELOC terms also vary, but they can run for as long as 30 years.

Even though there are many benefits to HELOCs, there is a downside to using a home as collateral.

Investopedia says home equity lenders place a second lien on the home (in addition to the first mortgage lien).

Defaulting on HELOC payments can result in legal action and a home being repossessed.

Another potential pitfall is a lender may reduce or freeze your credit line after missed payments.

Even though banks attempt to limit how much can be borrowed through HELOCs to help avoid potentially negative situations, they are not without risk.

Borrowers considering a HELOC have other options, including home equity loans.

Homeowners can speak with financial advisors to learn more about their options for maximizing equity in their homes.

Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

903-865-7002 • www.lonestarshoppertx.com

Aspire Roofing Wants To Know?

The roofing experts

at Aspire Roofing in Van, wants to know. Have you checked your roof lately.

As we head into the spring storm season, it might be a good idea to put Aspire roofing’s contact information in your wireless device.

You can call Aspire at (903) 368-2355. Boost your homes appeal with a new roof. When you need roof installation or gutter repair services, choose Aspire Roofing to manage the job.

We’ve been providing first-rate services to residents of the Van & Lindale, TX area for years. We use roofing materials from top-notch manufacturers, including Owens Corning and CertainTeed.

If you’ve been searching for roof installation or repair services, look no further than Aspire Roofing. Schedule an appointment today by calling 903-368-2355.

Aspire roofing has over forty years expierence, Our roofing contractor relies on extensive experience to make sure your project is finished

properly. We’ll keep you fully informed d u r i n g the roof installation or gutter repair process.

Aspire Roofing is the company to call for: • COMPOSITION ROOFING We can install architectural or designer shingles to improve the appearance of your home.

• METAL ROOFING We’ll install a metal roof that will look great on your home and last for years.

• REDECKING We’ll make sure your roof deck is solid before installing your new roof Aspire roofing can also can also install an elastomeric roof coating..

We are also dedicated tt being your reliable rescource for roofing services.

Whether you need roof repair or gutter installation services, you won’t regret hiring Aspire Roofing in Van & Lindale, TX for help.

We’ll keep you fully informed about your project so you know

what to expect every step of the way. We can assist with commercial properties as well.

We’re committed to ensuring you’re happy with the finished roof installation or repair job.

Get a project estimate from Aspire Roofing in Van & Lindale, TX today.

Did a Did a recent storm damage your roof? Is it time to install a roof on your new home? Aspire Roofing is your best bet for residential roof repair and installation services in East Texas.

They rely on more than four decades of experience to deliver world-class roof repair and installation services.

You can count on us to make sure your roof complements your property and looks exactly how you want.

Schedule an appointment with Aspire Roofing now by calling 903-368-2355.

If you’re worried about the roof over your head, hire Aspire Roofing for installation or repair services. You can count on us for:Composition roof installationMetal roof installationFlat roof installationr. installation Call Aspire Roofing at 903-368-2355 today to get an estimate on commercial roof repair or installation services.

Chubby’s Trading Post

Mineola’s Best Mower Shop

Chubby’s Trading Post is your one stop shop for all your outdoor power equipment needs. We are an independent dealer serving Mineola and all surrounding areas of Wood County. We provide a powerful line of Spartan Mowers, are an authorized Generac dealer, and carry a variety of Makita Outdoor Power Equipment. We offer a variety of small engine repair services. Our technicians are Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, and Kawasaki certified. Our location also offers on site golf cart service and accessories. Come check out our friendly staff and great products Chubby’s Trading Post carries only the best in mowers including Spartan mowers. AboutSpartan Mowers . Let us tell you about the Spartan Advantage. Successful entrepreneurs, Robert and Becky Foster, founded the Intimidator Group with the all-American, hardworking values that made their previous companies successful.

They now own six companies headquartered in Batesville, Arkansas: Intimidator UTVs, Spartan Mowers, Bad Dawg

Accessories, Ground Hog Max, Gourmet Guru Grills, and eNVy Neighborhood Vehicles.

Vehicles and Mowers are sold through an ever growing network of dealers across the globe.

All products are handcrafted in Arkansas with American steel, muscle and workers.

At Chubby’s Trading Post, we’re always here to help. If you are curious about which Country Clipper mower makes the most sense for you, visit with us today.

When you mow with a Country Clipper, from Chubby’s Trading Post you don’t have to stress the big things and can take pleasure in the small ones. Like the smell of freshly cut grass.

What can you expect when you purchase a Country Clipper Zero Turn Mower at Chubby’s Trading Post?

• quality products, made by proud American workers • unique features not available from the competition • sales team to help you before, during, and after the sale!

Our goal at Chubby’s is to make a chore - mow-

ing the lawn - a fun and easy task. With Country Clipper’s exclusive Joystick Control, you will wonder why you ever called mowing a ‘chore’.

It’s spring time in east Texas, that means storms.

Don’t bew caught with a power outage. Come check out the Generac generators ready to take care of your energy needs during rough weather, or any time there’s a power emeregency.

Before we forgewt stop

by Chubby’s to check ut the DR Accessories and get aquainted with the friendly staff at Chubby’s .

Chubby’s is between Mineola and Quitman at : 5365 TX-37, Mineola, TX 75773. Our phone nuber is (903) 569-5228.

You can find us on Facebook and our website ishttps://spartanmowers. com/chubbys-tradingpost/ Our email is chubbystradingpost@gmail. com Our hours are 9 - 5 weekdays and 9 - 3 on Saturday. We are closed on Sunday.

CHECKED YOUR ROOF TOP LATELY? Residential • Commercial • Gutters

Boost Your Homes Appeal With A New Roof When You Need Roof Installation Or Gutter Repair Services, Choose Aspire Roofing .Aspire Has Been Providing First-Rate Services To Residents Of East Texas For Years. Aspire Uses Top Notch Roofing Materials From Manufactures Such As Corning And CertainTeed.

Schedule an appointment Today Call 903-368-2355.

Visit Us On Line www.aspireroofing.com

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Spring 2022 • LONE STAR SHOPPER

903-865-7002 • www.lonestarshoppertx.com

5365 TX-37, Mineola, TX 75773

The Spartan Mowers RZ-HD is a huge step up from the rest of the RZ Series mowers. With a 5” deep 7 gauge XTF deck, ROPS, 22” rear radials, and Parker hydraulic transmissions, the RZ-HD is an incredibly capable residential mower.

Powerful engine options, Parker HTG16cc extreme duty transmissions and the five layers of Smart Ride Technology comfort put the SRT-XD at the top of the food chain for commercial quality mowers. You can own one today for as low as $203 per month with approved credit, excluding taxes and fees!

Are you looking for a full-sized mower at a mid-sized price? The best selling mower from Spartan Mowers fits the bill perfectly. Parker transmissions, three deck sizes, three powerful engine options, 24” radial traction tires, and more. The RT-Pro is packed with advantages!

Spreading Joy(stick) for more than 30 years. Stop by to experience how Country Clipper's Joystick control single-handedly out mows the competition.

When you mow with a Country Clipper, you don’t have to stress the big things and can take pleasure in the small ones. Like the smell of freshly cut grass.

Country Clipper’s maintenanceEnjoy a cold beverage with your free friendly stand-up deck allows you access hand while you mow with a Country to the blades quickly and easily. Need to Clipper Joystick controlled mower untangle something? Just flip the deck, clean it out and get back to mowing.

What can you expect when you purchase a Country Clipper Zero Turn Mower at Chubby’s Trading Post?

• Quality products, made by proud American workers • Unique features not available from the competition • Sales team to help you before, during, and after the sale

The Spartan Mowers RZ-C is the perfect mower for small residential properties with its compact frame and deck sizes starting at only 42” wide. With a starting price of only $79 per month, it makes a very affordable option!

See more at www.spartanmowers.com/chubbys-tradingpost/