Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018 by Northern Virginia Daily

The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

Are investment properties worth the trouble? By Ashley Miller amiller@nvdaily.com

real estate. “First, they purchase the property knowing it will a rental,” she said. “If they can get it for a good price and maximize on their profit, all while having a quick turn around than according to them it’s worth it. And I would say I agree.”

or individuals looking to invest past stocks and bonds, investment properties are a solid option. While stories of quick flips dominate TV channels like HGTV and Bravo, the core of investment properties still remains in real estate rentals. Investing in a rental home isn’t like buying a low-cost fixer upper. Choosing the right property and location, maintaining it and dealing with tenants takes a lot of patience, determination and TLC. Michelle Caton, agent with Century 21 Braddock Realty in Winchester, believes investment properties are worth their weight in gold. But only if they’re sought out wisely.

“Second they have to be a wise landlord,” she said. “Knowing they have the right tenant, keeping up with the property and its needs are beneficial to all. If you can’t be a Michelle Caton good landlord then chances are the investor is buying the home to simthe rules of the game. They come in ply fix and flip it. Which is OK, with cash in hand and walk away too.” with an investment property. They buy them low, fix them fast and get Lorie Crabill, agent with Sager Real them back on the market, whether Estate in Strasburg said she sees a lot of investors purchasing homes, for renting or resale.” flipping them and then either rentAccording to Caton there are two ing or selling. objectives investors follow when

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

Selling a home by word of mouth is serendipitous and possible Cons include less profitability, home inspection issues, getting to the closing table and finding a qualified buyer.

By Ashley Miller amiller@nvdaily.com

he National Association of Realtors estimated in 2016 that 8 percent of homes that were sold in the United States were sold without the help of a real estate agent. These types of sales are known as ‘for-sale-by-owner’ or FSBO. FSBO methods used to market the home were yard signs, friends or relatives, online classified advertisements, open houses, social networking sites or word-of-mouth. Word-of-mouth is a powerful marketing tool. Twenty-six percent of homes sold without a real estate agent didn’t actively market their home, yet they still sold it. For some homeowners, selling a home by word-of-mouth is the way to it. Not only is it cheaper but also for many it’s easier. Selling a home by word-of-mouth is almost serendipitous.

Courtesy photo

Holly Goode, associate broker and realtor for Coldwell Banker in Front Royal shares her tips for successful house selling.

on price is the most important factor to remember. Other pros include limited showings, control of who sees the home and flexibility on time the house sits on the market.

from person to person is correct and getting it out to the most amount of qualified buyers as possible is tricky and could possibly be considered pure luck if a buyer was Stephanie Feltner, an agent with the Dan and Jan Team in found by this method only,” she Winchester, agreed that word-ofsaid. “There are so many other mouth is an effective took but when effective ways that can and should it comes to selling a home it's an be used along with the word of entirely different ballgame. mouth method.” “In real estate the more people that For homeowners thinking of selling know about your home, the more their home by word-of-mouth withlikely you are to find that right out an agent, start sharing the buyer,” Feltner said. “Word-ofnews one to three months before mouth can be used by you or your the house goes onto the market. agent as one way to get the word Friends and neighbors are particuout, however, to be effective, it is larly good at doing this. important to have an agent who Other ways to share the good news: knows how to market your home Tell Facebook family, tell coworkon a larger scale.” ers and church congregation, then According to UpNest, an agent tell Facebook family again. comparative site, sellers who sold with an agent saw up to 11 percent larger profit margins than those who didn’t advertise.

Feltner said she doesn’t know many sellers who would want to Holly Goode, an agent with Coldwell Baker in Front Royal, said “The house has to be priced right to rely on word-of-mouth only in sell only by word-of-mouth,” Goode order to sell their home. when it comes to selling a home “Trusting that info being passed solely by word-of-mouth, flexibility said.

“The more people know that your house is for sale, the more opportunities you will have in selling it,” Goode said. “If anything, team up with an agent that can help you answer any questions you may have along the process. That’s what we’re here for.”

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Tried and true moving tips from real estate agents By Ashley Miller amiller@nvdaily.com

Before moving: • Find boxes at local grocery stores like Aldie because they are usually of good quality and sturdy. Use smaller ones for heavy items. Pack dishes vertically.

hey say hindsight is 20/20. It may be a cliché but it’s pretty accurate when it comes to moving. Most people, after they move into their new home, wish they had organized differently, planned more or had an easier way to navigate the moving process. “Moving is one of those things people have a lovehate relationship with,” said Lorie Crabill Lorie Crabill, an agent with Sager Real Estate in again I have the items I use Strasburg. on a daily basis versus the Jaclyn Fleet, another agent unused and unnecessary with Sager Real Estate, said items that were just filling that after she had moved a up my cabinets,” she said. few times, she wanted to get Both women shared a few rid of everything. of their favorite moving “Now, if I have to move

hacks:

• Keep essentials in a bag with you and don’t forget your medications. • Pack an overnight bag. • Important items or those you need first should be put into clear totes for easy access.

• Make three piles: keep, trash and donate. If you • Call in favors with friends haven’t used or worn it in early to give them plenty of over a year, toss or donate it. time to coordinate their schedules. • Schedule a donation pick up for items you no longer During move: want or need. • Label or number each • Sort personal items by cat- room, for example, bedroom egories before boxing them one, bedroom two, etc., to up. make it easier for boxes to • Write contents of each box go into the right space. on the outside of the box or on a piece of paper. • Label all your boxes and what rooms they need to go into.

• Unpack boxes by room to prevent moving back and forth around the house. • Buy cereal, milk and other easy breakfast items and

keep a snack bin available for fuel. • Keep valuables like a Social Security card on person during moving day. After move: • Take a breather before beginning to unpack. • Treat friends or family who helped move with dinners like pizza or burgers. “The most important tip I can give any mover is to pick the right day to move,” Crabill said. “Moving has its seasons and will be a busy day. I always tell my customers to reach out to me or another realtor and ask for recommendations for moving day. We have great resources and are always glad to help. That’s what we’re here for!”

The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

Quick ways to increase home value through DIY projects By Ashley Miller amiller@nvdaily.com

ith remolding shows like HGTV’s Fix Upper, Property Brothers and House Hunters homeowners are beginning to realize with a few quick do-it-yourself projects, or DIY, increasing the value of the home is easier than ever before. For homeowners looking to boost home equity, follow these few simple and easy tips local realtors shared to boost value and profitability. Jacyln Fleet, agent with Sager Real Estate in Strasburg, said curb appeal should be priority No. 1. “To get buyers to walk into through the front door, the outside of the home needs to look fresh, clean and welcoming,” Fleet said. “Clean up your yard, plant shrubs or colorful plants and edge gardens with mulch for a neat bed look.” Other suggestions include adding a fresh coat of paint to the front door, updating the mailbox and adding a flag. The easiest and most cost-effective DIY project is painting. Paint fixes everything. Julie Shiley, an agent with Coldwell Banker in Leesburg, said buyers are looking for clean, fresh and bright. And the easiest way to achieve this look is to paint those walls. “‘Agreeable Gray’ by Sherwin Williams is the gray I tell all my homeowners to use,” Shiley said. “If you walk into a home that has yellow, pink or orange walls, it’s hard to picture your furniture in the environment. Neutral and light is the way to go.”

Jaclyn Fleet

easy DIY projects on a dime, Shiley said. Back splashes, along with upgrading mirrors and faucets, add value to the home. “Pick a softer color for your bathroom. Tame it,” Fleet said. “Spraypaint door knobs or cabinet handles. Paint cabinets; I like Rustoleum gloss, which you can pick up at Lowe’s.” When it comes to color, Fleet said pick rich colors for a sophisticated look or softer colors for a classic, country chic look. Both agents agree that decluttering the home adds value because it allows buyers to picture their lives in the home. To declutter, remove any personal photos or valuable items. Pack away any unnecessary furniture or home décor. Add neutral wall hangings. “With a few hundred dollars anyone can increase the value of their home,” Fleet said. “It just takes a little time, determination and creativity to do it.”

“You never get a second chance to Updating lighting fixtures in kitchens make a first impression,” Shiley added. “So make it count.” and bathrooms are also quick and

The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

Reduce injuries during DIY projects A ccomplishing a do-it-yourself home repair or renovation can elicit feelings of pride. DIY projects can be cost-effective and completed on homeowners’ unique time schedules. Although people can do many repairs themselves, using the wrong tools or equipment, or having insufficient knowledge of the task at hand can increase the risk of injury.

and always employing safe tactics can help keep DIYers stay healthy.

Ladder safety: A fall from even a few feet can cause severe injuries and even death. Ladders should always be put on a level, stable surface. Individuals should not climb higher than the second rung on a step ladder or the third rung on an extension ladder. Tools: Every tool has the potential to cause injury. This injury risk increases when tools are not used properly. Before a tool is used, it’s important to read the instructions.

them to make fast work of various jobs. If using power tools, DIYers should ensure they are the right tools for the job, not something that is handy or a quick fix. Power tools should only be used if a person can devote attention to the task and stay focused. That means never consuming alcohol, drugs or medications that can impair function when using power tools.

Working with electricity: An electric shock occurs when a person is exposed to a source of electricity and the charge runs through the body. It can cause burns, cardiac Wear protective gloves: Gloves arrest, changes to heartbeat, and can help protect against burns, even neurological injuries, electrocution, slippery grip, and according to the Mayo Clinic. even deep cuts or finger DIYers should take precautions amputation when using sharp tools. anytime they are working with Gloves also are essential when electricity, including turning off the handling broken glass. supply of electricity to the outlet or fixture being worked on. Power tools: Power tools have Heavy loads: It is important to Recognizing these potential hazards momentum and torque behind

The home security resource A Secure Life says that more than 18,000 Americans die every year from injuries that take place in the home. Unintentional injuries can be traced to many factors, but making repairs around the house can contribute to accident risk. Falls, electrical shocks, broken glass, carpentry tools, and carrying overly heavy loads repeatedly result in injury, says The Home Depot.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

Spring cleaning can alleviate allergies A

llergies affect people of all ages. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology reports that allergic rhinitis affects between 10 and 30 percent of the world’s population. In addition, the prevalence of allergic diseases has risen in industrialized nations for more than 50 years.

containing them, these small particles are only being shot back into the air where they are easily breathed in. WebMD suggests vacuuming once or twice a week to keep carpets and floors as clean as possible. Plus, don’t forget to vacuum upholstered furniture and drapes as well.

Seasonal allergies tend to be the strongest in spring and autumn. Allergies can be exacerbated by many factors, including in homes where improvements are being made. Regular housecleaning can remove many common allergy triggers and help alleviate symptoms. Knowing which common home improvement mistakes can aggravate allergies can help homeowners avoid them.

Launder with hot water When it comes time to wash linens, do so in hot water, which can kill dust mites residing in sheets and blankets. Employ mattress covers to further protect against dust mite allergies. Shampoo smart

Shampooing a carpet may cause cleaned, do one at a time and then moisture to become trapped in the promptly close the window. Having carpet fibers, leading to increased the air conditioning running can dust mites or mold growth. SpotSuit up help filter the air as well. clean stains instead. Otherwise, Before any cleaning begins, allergy Use exhaust fans hire a professional cleaner who will sufferers should don face masks The AAAAI recommends using an and rubber gloves to prevent exhaust fan in the kitchen and themselves from breathing in bathrooms to reduce the levels of allergens or having them touch moisture in these rooms and filter their hands, where they can be out potential allergens and odors. transferred to the face or elsewhere. Moisture can eventually lead to the Those cleaning should also wear growth of mold and mildew, which clothes that can be easily removed isn’t healthy for anyone, including and laundered after a day’s work. allergy sufferers, to breathe in. Clean windows singularly Invest in a HEPA filter

clean and dry the carpet as quickly as possible. Damp dusting is better When cleaning up dust or home renovation debris, use a damp cloth or a vinegar solution to wipe down surfaces. This helps trap small particles instead of sending them into the air. Treat mold issues Mold can trigger allergic reactions, so it is best to keep it out of a home. Solutions that contain at least 10 percent bleach can be effective at killing mold, but it’s best to prevent mold from growing entirely. That means keeping tabs of any moisture issues and addressing them immediately. Allergies can be problematic, but routine home cleaning in the right way can help alleviate symptoms.

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Prolonged exposure to outdoor allergens, such as pollen, mold or ragweed, can aggravate allergies. Therefore, if windows are being

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The basics of mulching M

ulch is available in various forms. Like other land and garden products, mulch can go a long way toward helping plants thrive. Mulch comprises just about any material that is spread over the surface of soil. Its purpose is primarily to help soil retain moisture. In addition, mulch can staunch weed growth, keep soil cool, improve the aesthetics of garden beds, and even improve soil nutrient composition. When the right mulch is chosen, it can reduce the amount of time homeowners spend watering and weeding their gardens and insulate plants from dramatic changes in weather. Gardeners may not realize that mulch also can prevent garden soil from becoming overly compacted, according to HGTV. This can mean

beneficial earthworms can move easily through the soil, creating channels for water and depositing their nutrient-rich waste products. Gardeners can choose organic or inorganic mulch. Organic mulches are derived from natural materials that will decompose over time, lending organic matter as well as various nutrients to the soil. Organic mulches also may contain beneficial microorganisms that can fight against plant diseases. Inorganic mulches may be made of stones, landscape fabrics and plastic. Both types will need to be amended or replaced as they degrade. Those who want the most environmentally-friendly mulching materials can choose all-natural mulches instead of synthetic alternatives. To work effectively, mulch should

be applied in a two- to three-inch layer of material, state the experts at Old World Garden Farms. This is the ideal amount to retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth without choking plants. Also, mulch that is too thick may make it impossible for water to penetrate, or it may prevent the soil from airing out, causing continuously wet conditions that lead to root and stem rot.

Home landscapers considering mulch types may find that compost, manure and grass clippings (from nonpesticide-treated lawns) can be inexpensive and versatile in garden beds. The home advice site The Spruce notes that newspaper may also be effective. Many newspapers have switched over to organic dyes, especially for their The University of Connecticut black and white sections. Home & Garden Education Center Newspapers are an inexpensive says mulch should not be placed way to suppress weeds and act like directly against plant crowns or organic mulch in beds. They can be tree bases, as this can promote the covered with other organic mulch, development of disease. It may also like shredded bark, for more visual serve as a habitat for bark- and appeal. stem-eating rodents. The center Mulch can be a versatile asset when also suggests watering newly doing gardening projects around installed bark or wood mulches to home landscapes. And the benefits prevent fungi from colonizing in are more than just aesthetic. dry mulch and causing problems

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A-01 Great business location w/spacious 4 BR Apt up. Main St location in Mt Jackson this was formerly a diner & still has some of the components intact. Good space for general business, retail, thrift, antique or even back to a diner. The 4 BR, 2 BA Apt over, suited for owners quarters or rental. Lots of parking available. Only 1 block from Shenandoah River, mtn views from rear deck. Check it out! $169,000

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Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Potential threats to pets in your yard P

ets love to roam free, and homeowners with outdoor space often let their pets get some exercise and play time in their backyards. While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for pets like dogs and even some cats to get some time outdoors, pet owners should recognize the potential threats to pet health looming in their lawns and gardens. Mulch: According to the Pet Poison Helpline, mulch made from cocoa beans can pose a threat to pets. This type of mulch is made of discarded hulls or shells of the cocoa bean. These byproducts of chocolate production contain varying concentrations of the toxins theobromine and caffeine. When ingested in high concentrations, these toxins can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and, in some instances, death. The amount

including restlessness, vomiting, seizures, and high body temperature, can appear as soon as one hour after these baits are ingested. The baits are typically available in pellet, granular, powder, and liquid form, but each should be avoided by pet owners who allow their pets to play in their yards.

of these toxins present in a given batch of this type of mulch may not be readily known, so homeowners should avoid applying it. Slug and snail baits: The PPH notes that the active ingredient in slug and snail baits is metaldehyde, which is highly poisonous to cats and dogs. Symptoms of distress,

flowers and plants can pose a threat to pets as well. Before planting new plants and/or flowers in their gardens, homeowners should inquire at their local gardening center or speak with their veterinarians to confirm if the plants or flowers are safe to ingest. If not, do not plant them or plant them in raised garden Compost: Compost is a great and beds that cannot be accessed by natural way to enrich soil. But com- curious pets. post piles should be cordoned off so Fertilizers: Certain types of fertilcurious pets cannot access them. As izer also may be harmful to pets. the organic matter within compost According to the PPH, fertilizers piles decomposes, mold can begin that contain blood meal, bone meal, to grow. If ingested by pets, moldy feather meal, and iron can be danmaterials inside compost piles can gerous to dogs. When ingested in make pets sick in as little as 30 large doses, such products can form minutes. Pets who have ingested a concretion in the stomach, which moldy compost may appear agitat- can obstruct the gastrointestinal ed, pant, drool, or vomit, and some tract and cause severe pancreatitis. may even suffer from tremors or Fertilizers that are high in iron also seizures. can contribute to iron poisoning if Flowers/plants: Of course, some ingested by pets.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

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Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

How to banish mosquitos from your yard T

areas. But mosquitoes in North America can still be harmful, and bites may result in severe skin irritation through an allergic reaction to mosquito saliva.

Inspect property for hidden pockets of water. While bird baths, pet bowls and kiddie pools are easy to find, homeowners may be unknowingly hosting mosquito breeding grounds elsewhere on Homeowners can employ several their properties. For example, tarps measures to prevent mosquitoes used to cover pools, automobiles or from invading their backyards this grills that are not tightly secured spring and summer. can fold up, creating pockets where rain water can collect and give Mosquitoes are not just pesky nui- Remove standing water. Stagnant water is an ideal breeding mosquitoes somewhere to breed. sances, but they’re also harmful. ground for mosquitoes, so homeMosquitoes also may use gutters to According to the American owners must be diligent in their breed, so homeowners should rouMosquito Control Association, tinely inspect and clean their gutefforts to remove standing water more than one million people ters during spring and summer. around their properties. across the globe die from mosquito-borne diseases every year. Such Mosquitoes can breed in bird Keep a well-manicured lawn. diseases include malaria, dengue, baths, pets’ water bowls and empty Well-manicured lawns are less likeyellow fever, West Nile virus, and plant pots that collect rain water. ly to be breeding grounds for mosthe Zika virus. Routinely tipping these items and quitoes. Because water plays such a refilling them with fresh water can crucial role in the mosquito breedThe AMCA notes that many of the diseases transmitted by mosquitoes prevent mosquito infestations, pro- ing process, it’s necessary that all can be linked to travel to endemic tecting both humans and pets alike. potential water sources in a yard be ime spent in the backyard on spring and summer afternoons and evenings contributes heavily to the popularity of these times of year. Many homeowners go to great lengths to make their outdoor living spaces as luxurious as possible, only to be bothered by uninvited and bothersome guests: mosquitoes.

removed. Fallen leaves that are not removed and pockets of soil beneath trees and plants can collect rain water or water from lawn sprinklers, which can be just enough for mosquitoes to breed. Use fans. Consumer Reports tested the efficacy of oscillating pedestal fans to keep mosquitoes from invading decks and patios and found that such fans cut mosquito landings by 45 to 65 percent for those sitting closest to the fans. When hosting backyard barbecues, homeowners can set up several such fans on their decks and patios to keep mosquitoes at bay. Mosquitoes are unwelcome guests come spring and summer. But homeowners can take steps to increase the likelihood that their properties stay mosquito-free.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

Transform bathrooms with technology T echnology is infiltrating every room of the house. Many new home buyers are millennials, and this tech-savvy demographic covets technological innovations. A recent survey by Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate indicates 77 percent of Generation X and Y home buyers want their homes equipped with the tech capabilities they have grown accustomed to. Many of these involve smart innovations, including those that can transform one of the most private rooms in the house â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the bathroom.

bathrooms have the most potential of any rooms to be improved with technology. The following are just some of the bathroom gadgets and gizmos no one should resist before giving a try.

Automatic faucets: Infrared sensors have been helping keep public restrooms more hygienic for years. The same technology can be used in home bathrooms to curtail water waste and keep faucets and sinks from becoming infested with germs. In addition, faucets with built-in timers can be programmed to set tasks for brushing teeth or washing your face. Automated home theater rooms and Musical shower: Instead of Wi-Fi-enabled home security systems have become the norm, but having to blast the volume on the portable speaker you use in the what tech improvements are available to make the powder room bathroom, a wireless speaker is built into some showerheads. This more in touch with todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s digital enables those who like to sing in the lifestyle? According to the home improvement resource The Spruce, shower or listen to podcasts while

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Smarter weight management: Bathroom scales have gone high-tech as well, with various options enabling users to measure weight, BMI and body fat percentage before sending the data wirelessly to a phone, tablet or computer. This can put you in greater control of fitness goals.

restroom visits easier.

Soaking tubs: As fast as standalone showers were introduced to the modern bathroom, tubless designs have been replaced with High-tech toilets: Borrowing ideas from bidets and trends around streamlined soaking tubs. Tubs come with different features, the world, modern toilets do not including chromatherapy, which require hands or paper. These toilets have temperature-controlled employs colored lights to enhance mood. Air baths are controlled water, spritzing wands and air electronically and provide different dryers to clean and sanitize. Selflevels of sensation for those who are cleaning toilets help busy skipping the hot tub. professionals save time and are ideal for those who always want Round out these innovations with their bowls as clean as possible. And automated lights, chilled medicine if you desire extra comfort, toilet cabinets and aromatherapy, and seat warmers are available, while your bathroom will indeed become LED lights can make nighttime a technological spa.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

When renting your first place, good credit can open doors also illustrates an important point: tors such as income, debt and Good credit can be especially help- employment. In some cases, those with good hen first-time renter Angelica ful for first-time renters. Better chances of approval credit scores might not need to Fattu-Logan, 20, started applying for apartments, she When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re new to renting, good find a co-signer, a person â&#x20AC;&#x201D; often braced for rejection. But those credit can make up for other short- a parent â&#x20AC;&#x201D; whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s equally responsible for making payments. But rejections never came â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in part comings in an application. Agadoni notes that she might still because she had good credit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If (applicants) have a good credit require a first-time renter with â&#x20AC;&#x153;I applied to about three or four score, even if they havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rented good credit to get a co-signer if different apartments, and they all before, that means that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked at their job for less accepted me right away,â&#x20AC;? says handled their finances well and than a year and have limited savFattu-Logan, a drugstore manager that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re responsible,â&#x20AC;? says ings, for example. Laura Agadoni, a landlord and real and college student from Peoria, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every situation is different,â&#x20AC;? she Arizona, who recently moved into estate writer based in Marietta, says. Georgia. That could be enough to an apartment with her fiancee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It make up for a lack of a rental hiswas a pretty quick process, like two Savings on rent and deposits tory, otherwise a major factor in days. It was just a matter of pickIf youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re approved with good credit rental decisions, she says. ing which one I liked better.â&#x20AC;? She and meet all the landlordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s maintains her credit by paying for â&#x20AC;&#x153;My bottom line is, I just want to requirements, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll generally just groceries with her credit card and get my rent on time,â&#x20AC;? she says. have to pay the security deposit paying off the balance right away. Requirements can vary, but and rent described in the rental By Claire Tsosie NerdWallet

For young folks fearing rejection Agadoni says many landlords look listing. But if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re approved with from landlords, Fattu-Loganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pos- for credit scores of 640 or higher bad credit, you may have to pay a itive experience is heartening. It for renters. They also consider fac- premium â&#x20AC;&#x201D; not just on rent, but

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potentially for utilities, too. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve definitely seen consumers with more challenged credit having to put higher deposits down in order to rent a property,â&#x20AC;? says Jim Triggs, senior vice president of counseling at Money Management International , a nonprofit credit counseling agency. The firm offers counseling to renters, among other services. He adds that landlords sometimes also charge higher rents to these applicants. Many utility companies â&#x20AC;&#x201D; such as electricity and gas providers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; also charge upfront deposits to those with poor credit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Normally, the better your credit, the better arrangements youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have with any of those utility companies, up to and including zero deposits,â&#x20AC;? Triggs says. More bargaining power In cities where the rental market is

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Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

extremely competitive â&#x20AC;&#x201D; say, San Francisco or New York â&#x20AC;&#x201D; having good credit is just table stakes. But in areas where landlords have trouble finding tenants, a good score can give you bargaining power. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because good credit is a crystal ball that tells landlords youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re reliable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;How you pay your bills is predictive of how youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to pay your bills in the future,â&#x20AC;? says credit expert John Ulzheimer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That includes rent.â&#x20AC;? If a landlord is eager to find a renter and you have good credit, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the apartment (landlord) is absolutely going to want you to move in, and move in lickety-split, because theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to want to start getting paid,â&#x20AC;? Ulzheimer says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And you can lean on them a little bit.â&#x20AC;? For example, he says, you may be able to negotiate a good parking spot or extra garage remote controls, even as a first-time renter.

Before renting, check your credit Before you go apartment-hunting, check your credit reports and credit scores to see where you stand. Doing so is free and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hurt your scores. If you have good credit, you can walk into property viewings with confidence, knowing youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re set up for success. If you have bad or no credit, you can focus on making improvements. Be upfront with landlords about what steps youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re taking to work on your credit and, in the meantime, budget for a larger security deposit. It may take longer to find a space thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right for you, but with persistence â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and maybe some help from a co-signer â&#x20AC;&#x201D; youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get there. This article originally appeared on the personal finance website NerdWallet. Claire Tsosie is a writer at NerdWallet. Email: claire@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @ideclaire7.

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Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

Minimize dust while renovating E

keeping the dust confined only to work areas can be achieved with plastic sheeting and other barriers.

to other rooms.

Homeowners who want to remodel with minimal construction debris floating through the air — both for health purposes and general cleanliness — may find these proactive steps helpful.

Remove extraneous items. It’s best to remove clutter from the room, including any furniture that can be taken out of the space. This helps items from becoming dirty and hazardous particles from settling into nooks and crannies.

Prepare dust-containment plans. If a contractor is involved, it is often his or her responsibility to minimize dust. Do-it-yourselfers must make dust containment a priority. Protecting the floor and

Close vents and registers. If forced air systems are part of the home, it’s best to divert air away from the work area. Block vents and intake registers so that dust does not clog the system or transfer

permits, an open window can provide ventilation. Another idea is to create an air vacuum in the work area. Picking a window at the far end of the work area and mounting a window fan blowing outward can suck dust out and away from other areas of the house.

ven though dust is ever-present both inside and outside of a home, when renovations are in full swing, dusty conditions are often exacerbated. Whether a home is new or old, numerous substances can be stirred up when removing walls, refinishing floors, removing tile, or expanding living spaces. These include silica from drywall, lead, asbestos, paint particles, and even waste from bugs or rodents.

Stacey Pangle

The Northern Virginia Daily

Cut items outside. Design advice site Houzz says that some power Designate an entrance and tools have vacuum extractors to exit. The experts at This Old House suck up dust at the point of contact, say it is best to choose one doorway removing 90 percent of dust where as the only means in and out of a it is generated. For those who do work area. Ideally, this doorway not have access to these tools, should lead to the outdoors. All cutting and sanding can be done other doorways should be sealed on outdoors to keep dust outside. both sides. Open a window. If weather

Clean up daily. By keeping on top of dust, including sweeping and Dust is a common side effect of vacuuming the work area frequently, dust will not accumulate home renovation projects, but it and migrate elsewhere. can be minimized.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

The latest apps for home layouts, inside and out By Katherine Roth Associated Press

helpful for communicating design ideas to contractors and architects.”

allows visitors to order furniture and other products that are the same or lanning out how to arrange furni- The technology allows you to see what similar to those seen in the magazinetype photos. You can work with a ture in your home — or plants in furniture would look like in your your garden — used to involve a home before you buy it, using just the friend by using the “Invite a Collaborator” feature, or, through pencil, graph paper, a measuring tape camera on your phone, for example, “Directory,” contact local designers, and a lot of imagination. instead of dealing with the hassle — architects or landscapers. and back pain — involved in The process has gotten easier — and returning, say, an ill-chosen sofa. One of the newest features is “View in way more streamlined — thanks to a And the design apps do not stop at the My Room 3D,” which invites you look burgeoning selection of home and garden apps. door. With spring around the corner, at your room through your phone and then — using augmented reality Furniture companies, interior design there are landscaping apps to help technology — place a selected piece of firms and even landscapers have been take the guesswork out of deciding furniture there to see what it would what to plant and where and when. rolling out a new generation of apps look like. and online programs to make the Among the most popular home apps Other indoor design apps include is Houzz , a free app with 40 million process more foolproof for novices Hutch , Home Design 3D, and Home and pros alike, often using virtual and users around the world each month, Design 3D , Room s, and interior according to Liza Hausman, vice augmented reality technology. design apps from stores like IKEA and president of industry marketing for “Design apps are really great for Overstock.com. Houzz. Features include a huge generating ideas, and deciding on database of design photos — searchable For outdoors, Houzz features articles materials and sources for do-itby style, country or color, for example and advice from gardening pros, and a yourself projects,” says Margaret — to create a personalized “idea book.” forum where home gardeners can Mayfield, an architect in Los Osos, The site’s “Visual Match” feature California. “And they’re also very share ideas and suggestions.

Another popular landscaping app is iScape , which helps you visualize your garden, save and share ideas, and buy gardening products. As with all technology, though, the apps have a learning curve that in some cases is far greater than the old graph paper and pencil method of laying things out. And professionals warn that for major jobs, it’s still best to seek out a pro. Just don’t be surprised when your landscaper or designer pulls out their phone to consult an app. Matt McMillan, a landscape designer in Pound Ridge, New York, says, “My designs are very focused on drawing nature into the garden. So I frequently consult the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Merlin app. I also have apps for dragonflies, butterflies and mushrooms. I can’t live without the ‘Toolbox’ app in general, and specifically its compass.”

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Homes - Valley Real Estate Guide - April 2018

Laundry room renovation ideas

Employ vertical space Floor space may be at a premium in a laundry room, especially for those who want to devote as much space as possible to bulk-size washer and dryer units. Therefore, utilizing wall space is key. Use shelving, wire racks, hooks, and other organizational tools to store items on the wall. Shelves can be tucked into just about any space, and there are different options that can fit into corners or shallow areas. These are a great option for keeping detergent or other laundry essentials nearby.

LI N EW

The benefits of dedicated laundry rooms abound. However, disorganized laundry rooms can nullify such benefits. Depending on the needs and preferences of each homeowner, laundry room designs can be customized for convenience.

ST IN G

o former apartment dwellers or those who have never enjoyed the benefit of a dedicated laundry area, even the smallest washer and dryer space can seem like a luxury.

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Clean designs reduce clutter Simple, clean designs can be an asset in a laundry room. If budget and space permits, cabinetry built into the design will help keep items out of sight in the laundry room. Cabinets hung directly above the appliances can store detergent, bleach and fabric softener. Use cabinets elsewhere in the room as catch-alls for cleaning supplies used in various other rooms around the house.

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Incorporate a sink in the design Some older laundry room setups have a slop sink to drain discharged water from the washing machine. However, newer homes may have plumbing installed directly through the floor or walls. It is still a worthwhile idea to have a sink in the laundry room for rinsing out stains, handwashing items and having a go-to sink for messier cleanup. Utilize a tension rod A rod installed between two cabinets or across a narrow width of space in the laundry room is a handy spot to hang shirts or pants to prevent wrinkling. Repurposing a ladder and suspending it from the ceiling also creates a spot to hang clothes. Consider laundry room flooring Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to select flooring materials that will not be damaged by contact with moisture or spills. Vinyl, tile and some composite products often make good laundry room floor materials. Resilient flooring that mimics the look of hardwood may add a classy touch, and give the appearance of wood without having to worry about damage. To alleviate fatigue while spending long moments in the laundry room, invest in a memory foam mat that can be placed underfoot. Keep lighting in mind Lighting can be important in the laundry room. Rely on task lighting, under-cabinet strip lighting and overhead lights as needed for efficiency. Laundry room design can maximize the space available and make it more convenient to launder and sort clothes.

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