Sarasota26 7

Sarasota and Bradenton / Manatee County HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE Volume 26, Issue 7

Florida Living at Its Best!

THE ISLES OF SARASOTA

COVER HOME See Page 6 for details

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                      

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                       

               

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           

            

  

 

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                

               

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          

                 

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         

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                

          

004-JackMooney_36101.19.6.040 11/18/16 11:21 AM Page 1

Jack Mooney 941-587-9276

themooney4@aol.com www.Floridamoves.com/jack.mooney

Luxury and Waterfront Specialist Text the codes on the photos below to the number “52187� to instantly view more photos & information.

Text R118853 to 52187 ISLE OF PALMS Award winning Venice home custom built to the highest standards. Just 10 minutes from the beach and restaurants of Venice Island. Stunning 4BR/3.5BA plus den, pool, spa, summer kitchen, Incredible attention to detail throughout.

Over 1 acre, beautifully landscaped lot on a cul-de-sac of just 4 luxury homes. MLS:A4169055 $1,075,000

Text R118844 to 52187 SIESTA ESTATES Quality built home in quaint gated community just a block away from Siesta Key Beach. Extensively updated 4BR/3BA, over 2300 sq.ft. with pavered, screened lanai, summer kitchen, heated pool & spa. MLS:A4168506 $928,500

Text R92580 to 52187 MISSION ESTATES A truly rare find of a custom built 3300 sq ft home set on over 1 acre of wonderful privacy just 10 minutes from beaches and Venice Island. 3BR/3BA plus office, pool, spa, and fenced yard. MLS:A4167122 $795,000

Thinking about selling or buying?

Not sure where to start?

Call 941-587-9276

Helping You Make The Right Move

Your Venice - Sarasota - Bradenton Real Estate Connection I CAN HELP YOU WITH ALL PROPERTY TYPES AND ALL PRICE POINTS New Construction Golf and Waterfront Communities Investment Properties Condos or Single Family

Kathleen Comerford 941.586.3229 BROKER ASSOCIATE/REALTOR

Kathleen@ComerfordRealtyGroup.com

I can help you understand the beneďŹ ts and advantages of living in Florida. I relocated full time from the Northeast 5 years ago. I can tell you why I made the move and why I absolutely love it!

GORGEOUS WATERFRONT ESTATE Nestled on 5.1 acres with deep water dockage and access to the Intracoastal Waterway. Truly one-of-a-kind and rarely available, 7700+ sq.ft. main residence with complete guest house and beautiful outdoor living space. The front 2.1 acres are permit-ready for 4 additional home sites that could create a great investment or an amazing family compound. MLS:A4164201

$3,700,000

TEXT R85157 TO 52187 FOR MORE DETAILS & PHOTOS

LONGBOAT KEY Spectacular direct views of the Gulf of Mexico. This premier beachfront community offers an elegant yet relaxed lifestyle. Exquisite 2820 sq.ft. condo featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths and 2 half baths plus den/possible 3rd bedroom. Full time concierge and resort style amenities. Enjoy all of what this beautiful home, community and amazing location has to offer! MLS:A4164513

$2,135,000

TEXT P1042855 TO 52187 FOR MORE DETAILS & PHOTOS

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www.abseesarasotahomes.com 

THE ISLES OF SARASOTA Offering the ultimate casual resort lifestyle.

Beautiful 3BR/2BA home with peek-a-boo lake view. Wood floors, upgraded appliances, large lanai. 2 car garage.

Maintenance free. Fantastic community amenities and location. $374,900 Text P988713 to 85377 for more photos and information.

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Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 26, No. 7 - Page 7

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 941-376-2083

   

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VILLAGEWALK, PALMER RANCH 2,008sf, 3BR/2BA. Well landscaped lakefront lot with room for a pool. Volume ceilings, bamboo floors, enclosed Florida room.

Beautiful resort styled community. $445,000

Text P1036003 to 52187 for more photos VILLAGEWALK, PALMER RANCH 2,521sf, 4BR/3BA. Located lakeside featuring plantation shutters, fireplace, family room, formal living/dining. Short walk to the Town Center with all its amenities. $529,900

Text R121542 to 52187 for more photos VILLAGEWALK, PALMER RANCH 2,521sf, 4BR/3BA +office.

Gorgeous lake views abound.

Private pool, formal living room, family room, hand scrubbed ash wood floors.

Community resort style amenities. $554,900

Text R77234 to 52187 for more photos VILLAGEWALK, PALMER RANCH 1,672sf, 3BR/2.5BA. Wonderful end unit Catalina Townhome backs up to preserve area and large open space to side. Sarasota’s premiere resort styled community. $289,000

Text P819249 to 52187 for more photos

Annual and Seasonal Rentals Available. For Details Call 941-929-9333

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Page 8 - Vol. 26, No. 7

OFFICE:

Serving The Bradenton Area Since 1956!

941-792-2363 TOLL FREE:

1-800-780-2360

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THIS 2BR/2BA with enclosed pool is very well maintained. Quiet street, minutes to shopping and beaches. $239,000 MLS#A4162122 Barbara Edwards 941-792-2363

 NORTH COUNTY Minutes to St Pete/Tampa. 3BR/2BA/ 2CG, extra lg lot, lake view. Light & bright. Easy access to I75 & 275. $239,900 MLS#A4145907 Barbara Edwards 941-792-2363 TO AD BR T ES W

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JUST OFF RIVERVIEW BLVD. 3BR/2BA split bedroom plan. New metal roof, A/C, and paint. Wood flooring, large backyard, room for pool. $269,500 MLS#A4165408 Barbara Edwards 941-792-2363

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Oversized 2 car garage, fenced yard, updated kitchen. Furniture negotiable. $239,900 MLS#A4160633 Gary French 617-459-1889 OF

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 LAKEFRONT 3BR/2BA Open floor plan with lake view.

Convenient to schools, GT Bray Park, YMCA & shopping. $219,900 MLS#A4158006 Mary Sutton 941-360-9322

THINKING OF SELLING?

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TWO ADJACENT LOTS. 212 50th St Ct NW $79,900 New Price MLS#A4159088; 214 50th St Ct NW $69,900 New Price MLS#A4159089.

Utilities ready to be connected. Impact fees paid.

Gary French 617-459-1889

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE! 

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NEW PRICE near everything! Landscaped & fenced corner lot. 3BR/2BA, 2.5 car garage.

No carpet. Many major upgrades. $244,900 MLS#A4161961 Barbara Edwards 941-792-2363

LOCATION!!

Near shopping, medical facilities, beaches. 2BR/2BA w/deeded carport. 55+ community. Heated pool, tennis, activities. $116,000 MLS#A4156099 Barbara Edwards 941-792-2363

Over 6,000 Gulf Coast Listings Updated Daily

Visit Us At: www.ScholfieldRealty.com

WE NEED LISTINGS! EVERYTHING IS SELLING

400 59th Street West • Bradenton, FL 34209

E-Mail Us At: BERealtor01@gmail.com

The Most Common Home Renovation Pitfalls & Solutions

By Chris Hillman

No matter how you look at it, home renovations can take up a lot of your time and even more of your money. Whether you hire professional contractors or take a more DIY approach, you’ll encounter potential pitfalls. Before you take the plunge on your next home renovation project, read these common mistakes and consider our simple solutions.

The Pitfall: Poor Planning

Isn’t it easy to browse home décor magazines and websites for inspiration to reinvent your space? Your imagination is a great start, but it may not be up to code. As tempting as it is to start a renovation project while your creative motivation is high, practical knowledge and thorough planning will always be what gets the job done on time and under budget. Every contractor can tell you stories about cleaning up someone else’s mess when inspiration outweighed preparation.

The Pitfall: D-I-Why Did I Think I Could Do That Myself?

We’ve never had more information at our fingertips than we do today, and everyone agrees that a little self-confidence is a good thing.

Online tutorials, materials lists, and social media do a great job of convincing us we are Norm Abram or Bob Vila, but there is a lot that separates the amateurs from the professionals. Experience, standards, regulations, tools, and materials are just a few numbers in a pro’s repertoire that can mean the difference between an elegant renovation and a complete fiasco.

The Solution: Pen and Paper

The Solution: Know Your Limits

Before you swing a sledgehammer, pick up a pen. Okay, these days it’s more likely to be a spreadsheet, but the goal is the same: know exactly what you’re doing before you do it. Research and list every step of your project, every tool and material you’ll need, and how much it will all cost. Measure carefully and write down every measurement. When surprises occur—and they will—stop and plan again. Don’t be afraid to go back to the drawing board, because the drawing board will save you time and money in the long run.

Before you begin planning any home renovation project, throw out your ego. You won’t be needing it. The very first question you must ask your-self is, “do I know what I’m doing or will I need a contractor?” Placing patio stones for a walkway? Go for it. Pouring concrete for a walkway? Let a professional handle it. Installing a light fixture? Give it a try. Rewiring your breaker box? Better hire an electrician. If you’re expecting a meticulous building inspector, if you have more than five figures on the line, or if you’re working with lethal voltage…call a pro.

The Pitfall: Flying By Night

You’ve taken our advice and decided not to DIY your new roof. Great. Now you want to save money, so you decide to hire your dry cleaner’s brotherin-law’s cousin, who “does roofs on the weekends.” When the job is done, you’ve got $2,500 left in your pocket and your roof looks great. That is, until a thunderstorm passes by and suddenly your house has an unplanned skylight and indoor swimming pool.

The Solution: Do Your Homework

Home renovating is an oldfashioned business, and you may benefit from choosing a contractor the old-fashioned way.

Online reviews are convenient, but can be deceptive. When choosing a contractor, start by word of mouth. If your neighbor or coworker had a great roofing contractor, start there. Don’t be afraid to ask about licenses, membership to professional associations, and references.

Get all estimates in writing and scrutinize every contract thoroughly before you sign. The value and structural integrity of your home may be at stake.

Source: http://www.styleathome.com/homes/renovating/6-tips-for-avoiding-renovation-mistakes/a/54012

Do You Have the

lushest lawn on the Block?

by Jacklyn Renz

It has been speculated by psychologists that a first impression only takes 15 seconds to happen, meaning a person has made up their mind about a new acquaintance in that short time frame.

If we apply that same concept to home buying, then curb appeal has jumped to the top of the list in priority. As a matter of fact, the National Association of Realtors tells us that 63 percent of home buyers will drive by a property after viewing it online. Often, the curb appeal and landscaping of the home isn’t the most fun to do, but it is certainly one of the more important pieces of marketing preparation. A key factor to the curb appeal of your home is your lawn and its health. Here are some things to factor in when setting your lawn up to stay lush and beam above all others on the block.

Your Location Matters We all know the old adage “location, location, location”, but this time we mean a little something different. Consider the climate of your home’s location. Is it a dry climate? Is it prone to heavy rainfall? What about pests of the territory? Anything that flourishes naturally in your environment will be easier to maintain. Also, check into your local laws on watering, just in case there are restrictions on sprinkler systems due to drought in the area. Consider picking flowers that naturally resist local pest populations.

Plan Ahead Timing of lawn maintenance and planting is absolutely crucial. Different plants flourish in different seasons and take time to dig in. If you are planning on planting grass seed, it takes weeks for a seed to germinate and, even then, the climate conditions must prove stable for continued growth or the sprout will die. Take the time to plan out what improvements you may want to make, get the advice of experts whom you may hire to help, and save up the money you’ll need to make any changes.

Embrace the Investment If you have your financial ducks in a row, then don’t be afraid to invest some cash into your lawn to make it last and stay beautiful. Most of us will at least consider putting our home up for sale at one time or another, and the landscaping investment will make a difference in our home’s sale. If you don’t have tons of money to invest in elaborate landscaping, you should at the very least consider planting some colorful annuals and keeping the islands fresh.

Types of Grass The main spread of any lawn is its grass. Like the above section notes, climate is key when considering which type of grass your lawn has.

If you are starting fresh, then your options are plentiful. For example, the ever-popular Bermuda grass grows well in tropical, hot, or dry climates. It also responds well to drought periods, or can be irrigated with the rest of the lawn. Another popular choice is Centipede grass due to its reputation for being low maintenance. The less to maintain with a home, the

better! For cooler regions, Ryegrass or Kentucky Bluegrass may be good options due to their cool or cold winter resistances.

The Islands As we cover the ground work of curb appeal, we next move to any islands on the lawn. An island is more than just a beauty mark on the grass, it can be essential to the health of the lawn. Why? Many islands surround large trees within the yard. This is because, chances are, that tree has a rather thirsty root system that will quickly drain a struggling grass population of much needed water. A larger tree will shield the sun.

If you have several large trees and dying grass, consider making islands around those trees to not only have less bald or browned patches in the yard, but to also add an element of depth and a focal point to the lawn.

Keep an Eye Out for Overcrowding As a long-term homeowner, it may be difficult to see certain overgrown aspects of the lawn that you have grown accustomed to seeing.

With a lawn, at times less is more. Dig up any shrubs that have encroached on sidewalks, walkways, driveways, or porches. If a plant is out of style, then lose it. Consider getting rid of higher maintenance shrubbery or flowers that quickly die out and brown after only a few weeks of budding. If you focus your attention on just a few simple eye-catching pieces, then those pieces will reap the benefits of the lawn’s simplicity and a concentrated hand.

Keeping It Cut The maintenance of your lawn is more than just mowing here and there. Different grass types thrive with different mowing schedules. For instance, it is recommended that Bermuda grass be mowed when it has reached around 1 to 2 inches in height. Another key to healthy grass is through dethatching. Thatch is composed tiny pieces of dead grass and clippings that have gathered on the top of the soil. A little is okay, but if the thatch is allowed to build up too much before nature breaks it down, then your grass could suffer from insufficient water supply. Dethatch your lawn with a dethatching tool,

which looks like a rake with blades on it. This will help keep your lawn well watered and will remain that luscious green we all love. However, it’s important to note not to dethatch during periods of lawn stress, such as summer time or drought.

Feeding with Fertilizer For some of us, fertilizer may be one of those complicated compounds that we purposefully avoid. Why use fertilizer on the lawn at all?

Grass needs the high nitrogen content of certain fertilizers to have a healthy root system, which means greener, more lush grass. Depending on the needs of the species of grass on your lawn, the climate you live in, and the amount of rainfall you get, your feeding schedule will vary. Spring-time is the most important time to feed because the grass is coming out of a long winter. Shoot for fertilizing around the first mow. Add a lunchtime feed in late spring, a summer feeding, and once more in the fall. At the very least, once a year will help keep your grass green.

Maintaining Everything Else Once the grass has been taken care of, look to all the other plants too. Pruning is important for plants, but needs to be done properly.

Websites, such as HGTV.com, provide pruning guides to help you along as you figure out when and what to cut. Hopefully, with the preplanning as discussed in the previous section, you have picked out low maintenance flowers and shrubs that don’t require much upkeep for your location. Of course, weed your flower beds and islands regularly before the appealing plants be-come overrun. In the fall, keep leaves raked regularly to avoid killing the grass.

Remember, when it comes to maintaining lawn lusciousness, simple is better.

Plan ahead of time for what works for your location, your availability, and your pocketbook.

Sources: movoto.com, turfgrasssod.org, HGTV.com, lesslawn.com, scotts.com, bank-rate.com, garden-counselor-lawn-care.com

THE DO’S & DON’TS

OF HIRING A HOME CONTRACTOR You have decided to take the plunge and finally remodel your home’s interior to match your mind’s eye. The dreaming, the planning, and the picking out of paint colors have all been completed, but now you need someone to help you accomplish your project. Selecting a home contractor can be overwhelming, so where do you start? What do you need to look for? Better yet, which aspects do you want to avoid? To get you started, we have compiled some do’s and don’ts for hiring a home contractor.

THE STARTING POINT

A great place to begin is with friends and family who have been pleased with a smooth process and a completed project by a contractor. Ask questions about whether or not the contractor stayed within their estimated bid, how they handled changes, and how well their work was timed. If this route stops at a dead end, then start with local building suppliers who have established relationships with contractors. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry also has a website, NARI.org, where you can search for a professional based on your specific needs and location. Don’t settle for someone who refuses to give out references or prove past job experience.

HIRING A PROFESSIONAL

When we say professional, we mean someone with plenty of experience and all the legitimate documentation that comes with it. Your contractor should be insured for the job and have a license specific to your locality. Different states and counties have different laws. Red flags for this portion include a license number that doesn’t check out when you call your state office, an estimate with no license number listed, or someone who wants you to be the one to pull any necessary construction permits (needed for the really big jobs) because this means that you are the one held liable if the job goes awry.

The same state or county office that vouches for the contracting license will also have a record of any complaints. For companies, the Better Business Bureau is also a good reference guide for reviews.

MATTERS OF MONEY

Money is not something to be trifled with, especially for the really big projects. For starters, get a written estimate from the contracting company or individual. Make sure this is a fixed estimate, and ask for the person to itemize the charges.

If they refuse to itemize and only offer a blanket sum, don’t do the deal. This could be trouble down the pike if there are any items, such as the wainscotting or luxurious pre-chosen tile, that you want taken off of the project. Without itemized charges, the pricing gets fuzzy. Also, don’t go for an estimate that is drastically lower than all of the others. This could be a sign of cutting corners or desperation for work; both are bad news. As far as payments go, never give money up front. One way to guard against this is to offer the first installment after the first day’s work is completed. Agree to a payment schedule that will follow closely with the construction schedule. Have all loans or insurance payouts be made out to you instead of the contractor so you can stay in charge of the money. Once the work is completed, we suggest living a few days with the changes to be sure everything is working properly before paying out the last installment, giving the contractor some monetary motivation to make any necessary changes.

Now that the hard part of finding a reputable contractor is over, let the fun and creativity begin! There is nothing like doing a remodel that makes your house easier to live in and more of an extension of you.

SOURCES: THISOLDHOUSE.COM, NARI.ORG, ABCNEWS.GO.COM

6 t l ay o u t s f o l

to inspire Your Space

by Sumita Dalmia

Is your family hankering for more space? If you love your home too much to move, then ask a loft specialist to measure up your home’s attic space, or think about converting that empty nook into a private escape in your own home. Whether you have the room to create extra bedrooms, a library, or simply a cool playroom for the kids, converting the loft can add a definite wow factor to your home.

Split Level Living Space If you are lucky enough to have plenty of height to play with in your loft, then consider using two levels to define areas with different uses. Create a warm and cozy living room feel with a bedroom combo raised on top for dual practicality. Raising the bed with bookshelves also allows you to use the space as a study.

Home Office It’s easy to free up space in the corner of the kitchen or the living room by moving your desk and office space to the loft. It will be a quieter and calmer environment, and you can benefit from the loads of sunlight pouring through a skylight above your work station.

Guest Bedroom If you have family or friends that visit often, it would make sense to create a bedroom for them. Position the single beds under the eaves so that they have enough height to stand up in the center of the room. This way, you can throw out those air mattresses and sleeping bags and allow them to feel well rested and comfortable when they come over.

Kids Playroom Using bright and uplifting colors in addition to a large skylight to let sun in, this space can be transformed into a child’s bedroom, especially since the little ones are less likely to hit their head on the ceiling! Place down a colorful rug, a chalkboard wall for kids to draw on, and splash some paint on a feature wall to make the space inviting for kids! Consider using a cheap vinyl tile flooring so that the kids can also use their as their arts and crafts area and you don’t have to worry about the carpet.

Cozy Den If you have a grumpy teenager who usually doesn’t want your company when they have friends over, give them the gift of a den. This space can be ideal for gaming, gossiping, and dancing to their favorite songs, without you having to sacrifice your primary family room area.

Extra Storage Is there anyone that doesn’t need additional storage in their house? How about a place for all of those shoes? Or those photo albums and keepsakes? Your coin collection? Try installing shelves, drawers, and sliding closet doors to create a space where you can hide off-season coats, shoes, old books, and those knick knacks that you just aren’t ready to throw out yet!

Add Whimsy to Your Garden for a Unique Look How would it feel to step out of your

by Jacklyn Renz

Begin with the Pathway

For starters, a unique pathway to your garden will be fun to follow. Pathways are an important part of the landscape because they define the border for foot traffic. Large cobblestones are unique, adding a smooth hardscape texture to the entire garden. Try round cut-outs from an old stump. Something as simple as pebbles lined with colorful flowers will serve a double purpose of drawing the eye towards your garden and adding a pop of color.

Calling All Creatures

What would a whimsical garden be without creatures to populate it? There are some staple features such as gnomes and fairies that offer that fun, lighthearted touch. Also, trending these days with garden whimsy are colorful frogs, owls, birds, and other friendly faces. The great thing about the character of creatures is that they can be off-the-wall and funny, adding humor, smiles, and laughter to your playful garden palace.

home and into another world? That is what a whimsical garden oasis can provide.

Full of personality, unique touches, and creative character additions. A garden with whimsy will leave you feeling inspired and whisked away to another world! What can you add to your garden to achieve this wonderful whimsy? Read on for ideas.

Night Lights for Night Owls

Perhaps you are more of a night owl than a morning bird. Lighting will bring a spark of wonder to any night time garden space. The sky’s the limit with lighting! Any unique glass or ceramic piece can be easily turned into a lantern with a simple candle. If electricity is accessible, then hanging lanterns made from mason jars and Christmas lights can do wonders. There are store-bought options as well.

Cascading lights hanging from a tree, or several, can be used to create a co-coon of light surrounding the garden.

Trinkets and Detail

The little details in a garden make for fun conversation pieces. The smaller pieces can be collected and added over time without crowding the scenery. Things like painted stones, mush-room figurines, small creatures, and colorful glass bottles are just a few of the trinkets that come to mind. If you have a theme, such as garden tea party or vintage vacation, then

versa-tile whilst creating your whimsical world.

Paint them any color or stain that is needed for the space. These feathered friend feeders can be hung overhead from branches or posted at any height to keep the space evenly filled. Birdbaths make a beautiful whimsy highlight and can be decorated with stones, vines, or lights. stick with the items that will elaborate on your chosen theme. Not only will these trinkets add fun elements to the space, they will make for a great collector’s hobby too!

Plants Not Just for Pots

It’s no doubt that any gardener loves a variety of plant life. Now is the time to use that wide spectrum of loved foliage to add pops of color to the landscape. But don’t stop there. The fun thing about whimsy is that almost anything can be used as a planter. Old tables, rusted chairs, bathtubs, instruments...we’ve seen it all! One quick note is to be sure that anything used as a planter have adequate drainage for your plants.

New Life for the Old Shoe

Now is the time to resurrect life into the once tossed out and forgotten things. Birdbaths make beautiful miniature gardenscapes. Broken pots can be stacked and planted with cascading vines that pour over into the garden. Old garden gear such as wheelbarrows, rusted shovels, and worn out wagons can be used as planters or centerpieces. Try grouping together some of those flea market finds for a fun focal point.

Vintage Finds for Whimsical Flair

It seems that vintage is all the rage these days, and gardening is no exception. For added depth to the garden, draw the eye upward with tree decor. Use vintage tea cups and tea pots dangling from the branches overhead. Tarnished silver pieces can be nailed to fences or trees for a fun indoor feel. If you have adequate shelter, vintage books, suitcases, or trunks can be added for both reading material and drink placement.

Invite Wildlife

As with any garden space, watching wildlife can be a fun past time while you sit and enjoy nature. Invite these creatures in with unique feeders and houses. Birdhouses are especially

Have a Seat

What would any garden be without a place to sit and enjoy it? It’s more than just patio furniture that we can add to the garden (although patio furniture will work just fine). If you are handy at sewing, make your own outdoor pillows using a unique print of your choice. Old furniture can be repurposed for life outside.

Use tree stumps with added seat cushions.

Swings aren’t just for the young; add a metal swing, with hanging lights and throw pillows.

Whatever it is you do with seating, be sure it’s comfortable. Without proper seating, your gardenscape can’t be properly en-joyed.

Fairy Gardens

Another staple item for a whimsical garden scene is a fairy garden.

A fairy garden is a small garden complete with living structures (for the fairies, of course), architecture, and growing plants. This cute little garden highlight begs for the artist to have their way in creating a miniature garden world. A fairy garden also serves as a wonderful project to work on with your kids. Start them out early and their thumb will be green in no time.

Flowing Fountains

Your whimsical garden has satisfied the visual and tactile senses thus far, but what about some sweet sounds to satisfy the ear?

This is where fountains come in. They are a gentle flow of welcomed relaxation. Fountains have a wide range of size and come in a variety of shapes. De-pending on your tastes, fountains can be simple with stones, plant life, and pebbles, or a bit more elaborate, made out of the more unusual of things, like an old piano (yes, these do exist) or a watering can.

Now that you have some ideas for your unique whimsical garden space, go and have fun.

There is no limit to whimsy, so let your creative juices flow freely!

Sources: pintrest.com, thegardenglove.com, fairygardening.com

EYE CATCHING CHANGES You Can Make to Any Room Is it time to change things up in your home? Follow these easy tips and suggestions to make drastic or subtle changes to any room.

Start small.

For those of us who like switching things up every now and then, there are so many options that can really make any room look like it had a makeover. Simple items such as vases, picture frames and accent furniture makes a room look completely different. Choosing a coordinating color or an accent color can be the foundation of the vibe you are trying to achieve in any room. Switching out old photos frames for new or vintage frames makes the walls pop. Take it a step further by switching out the actual photo itself to incorporate moments that represent you such as wedding photos or a favorite family vacation photo. Floating shelves are also a great option to break up a boring wall by placing them at different eye levels.

This can also elongate and widen a small room by making it appear to be bigger.

Consider paint or wallpaper.

Change up your furniture.

If you are focusing on changing things up on the walls, don’t be afraid to paint or buy wallpaper. Choosing a wall color that coordinates with any accent colors in the room is a great idea. You can paint walls a solid color, or even be brave and paint stripes, or a chevron pattern on an accent wall. If painting seems like a daunting or time consuming idea, there are easy options like self-adhesive wallpaper or self-adhesive design stickers. Wallpaper can quickly change the design of any room! It’s an inexpensive idea that can work with any budget. To make a wall color pop, you can also consider changing the lighting in any room!

Lamps, bulbs, and chandeliers come in all types of shapes, styles, and colors. A new coordinating light fixture can help achieve the look in any room you want to redesign.

Another easy idea to switch things up is to buy new furniture. You don’t have to spend an excessive amount of money. Set your budget and shop for your wallet! You can even go to resale stores or thrift shops to find cool furniture pieces. New couches, sofas and lounge chairs make any room pop! If you’re unable to buy new furniture, try inexpensive blankets, colorful throws or accent pillows to make a quick and easy change. Slip covers for furniture can also be a great option as they are easy to remove and can make an old couch go from drab to fab!

Accent pieces such as side tables or a coffee table are great purchases that can be used for years!

An even easier idea to change your room’s new look is with an area rug. Start by deciding on the color you want the rug to be, and then choose a texture. Thick rugs or rugs with patterns and designs on them make any room pop and get a subtle or drastic change. Area rugs or runners are also great because they are typically small, inexpensive, and can be placed in areas with heavy floor traffic to save your carpet underneath.

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Jay and Kyle Mitchell “Your Home Team”  Jay@JayandKyle.com www.JayandKyle.com  

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Voted 5-Star  Best in Client  Satisfaction  2005-2016 

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Page 18 - Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 26, No. 7

Featured Homes SARASOTA Spacious Palm Aire home with amazing golf course and water views. 3BR/3.5BA plus den/office. Updated kitchen, family room with fireplace, large screened lanai and pool. $369,000 Text R123886 to 52187 for photos.

Gini Fine 941-587-2141 PALM AIRE REALTY PARTNERS SARASOTA Exceptional 2nd floor condo with view of 7th fairway and lake at Stoneybrook golf community on Palmer Ranch. 2BR/2BA plus den/offc, encl lanai, garage.

Impressive amenities. $282,500 Text R86907 to 52187 for photos.

Vicki Reilly 941-266-5962 BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICE FLORIDA REALTY THE MEADOWS Short Sale. 2BR/2BA 1265sf villa with lake view. Upgraded kitchen, vaulted ceiling, enclosed lanai, front patio, 1 car garage.

Fantastic community! Sold AS IS. Lender is Ready. $198,990 Text R85563 to 52187 for photos.

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Ricki Rubin 941-448-1632 ricki.rubin@gmail.com HORIZON REALTY INTERNATIONAL BRADENTON Lakefront 2BR/2BA with den in sought out location in the heart of town. Just a short drive to the beach! Community clubhouse, pool, tennis. Maintenance free with one of lowest fees in town. $169,900 Text R98197 to 52187 for photos.

Deborah Wolfinger 941-650-7290 ROSEBAY INTERNATIONAL

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Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 26, No. 7 - Page 19

Featured Homes

PALMETTO Manatee Riverfront home with no bridges to the Gulf of Mexico! Beautiful 3BR/3BA home plus 1BR/1BA guest cottage. 90 ft of river frontage. Dock with electric and water.

Deep, sailboat water. $1,100,000 Text R128261 to 52187 for photos.

Kathy Marlowe 941-232-4485 COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CALUSA LAKES Totally remodeled and turnkey furnished!

Beautiful golf course 3BR/3.5BA home plus den, pool, 3 car garage. One of the most sought after communities in the area.

New price! $699,000 Text R80277 to 52187 for photos.

H Jay Shelden III 941-586-3695 HORIZON REALTY INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY PARK Pristine, maintenance free lake home on cul de sac lot. 3BR/2BA plus den, heated pool & spa. Masterfully redone inside and out. NO CDD. Major price reduction! $499,000 Text R80320 to 52187 for photos.

Irv & Leslie Rothschild 941-321-9683 - Irv 941-266-5308 - Leslie BRIGHT REALTY SARASOTA WATERFRONT LOT MAINLAND No bridges and quick direct access to Sarasota Bay on this saltwater canal. Dock, davits and seawall in place on this oversized property.

Design your Dream House. No HOA. $450,000 Text P1030970 to 52187 for photos.

George Faline 941-922-1870 www.falinerealestate.com WEST COAST REAL ESTATE

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Cabins & Homes

Blue Ridge Office (706) 632-7211

4BR/3.5BA - 1.92 ACRES MTN VIEW - BLUE RIDGE #260696 $515,000

4BR/3BA - 1.87 AC MOUNTAIN & LAKE VIEWS #262470 $399,000

5BR/4.5BA - 15.65 ACRES MORGANTON #258351 $625,000

5BR/3.5BA - 2.2 ACRES MTN CREEK HOLLOW - ELLIJAY #257964 $369,000

252 West Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30512

TI UC TR NS CO

770-402-1908

W

Managing Broker Luxury Marketing Specialist SMC, ABS

NE

Kim Knutzen

ON

www.GuideToBlueRidge.com

3BR/3.5BA - 1.3 AC - YEAR ROUND MTN VIEWS - MINERAL BLUFF #262408 $449,000

4BR/3.5BA - 5.71 AC - RIVER ACCESS - GATED COMMUNITY MINERAL BLUFF - #258248 $439,900

3BR/3BA - 1.88 ACRE - IN CABIN RENTAL PROGRAM - MORGANTON #259065 $329,900

LAKE, TROUT POND & CREEK 3BR/1BA - 23.4 ACS - BLAIRSVILLE #238555 $375,000

3BR/3BA - 1.41 ACRES LAKE BLUE RIDGE ACCESS #255887 $349,000

3BR/3BA - 1.39 AC - MTN VIEW MORGANTON #257593 $315,000

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Homes

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Com mercial

3BR/2BA - 1.47 ACRES SEASONAL MOUNTAIN VIEW #261026 $229,900

3 AC - GA HIGHLANDS GATED COMM - ELLIJAY #258877 $59,900

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Acreage

3BR/2BA - LAKE BLUE RIDGE FRONT - MOUNTAIN VIEW #254601 $830,000

0.72 AC - FRONTAGE ON SMALL POND - GOLF & MTN VIEWS #236321 $30,000

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Lots

5BR/4.5BA - MOUNTAIN VIEW & LAKE BLUE RIDGE FRONT #260601 $2,175,000

3 AC - GA HIGHLANDS ELLIJAY #250197 $9,700

5.02 AC - MTN VIEW ASKA ADVENTURE AREA #259083 $39,900

2 AC - HWY 515 COMMERCIAL - BLUE RIDGE #232228 $350,000

OWN THE MOST UNIQUE PROPERTY IN BIG CANOE. 15.55 ACRES. #261587 $495,000

49.9 AC - UNRESTIRCTED MINERAL BLUFF #252095 $247,900

1.1 AC - LAKE & MTN VIEW TRANQUILITY AT CARTERS LAKE #263018 $95,000

22.4 AC - ELLIJAY WHITEPATH GOLF COURSE AREA #243271 $157,000

12.79 AC - MTN VIEW - GATED COMMUNITY - ELLIJAY #259146 $65,000

0.53 AC - COOSAWATTEE RIVER RESORT - ELLIJAY #245142 $8,500

4.12 AC - ASKA ADVENTURE AREA YEAR ROUND MTN VIEWS #260736 $125,000

5.45 AC - ASKA ADVENTURE AREA YEAR ROUND MTN VIEWS #260737 $125,000

COMMERCIAL, OVER 12,000 SQ FT, 1.75 ACS - CLOSE TO HOSPITAL BLUE RIDGE #255375 $1,350,000

3.25 AC - BLUE RIDGE DR PAD SITE READY - NEAR HOSPITAL BLUE RIDGE #255376 $350,000

Forest Hill S/D Building Lots.

0.3 TO 1+AC. STARTING AT $4,500.

Kim Knutzen

Cell: 770-402-1908

Office: 706-632-7211



Homes • Comm ercial • La nd

Blue Ridge Office (706) 632-7211

3BR/3BA - 1.27 ACRES MTN VIEW - MINERAL BLUFF #262667 $389,000

4BR/3BA - 1.61 AC MTN VIEW - MINERAL BLUFF #258541 $300,000

2BR/2.5BA - 1.38 ACRES FANTASTIC MTN VIEW #262365 $297,000

6BR/5.5BA - 1.47 ACRES MOUNTAIN VIEW & LAKE FRONT #259164 $2,200,000

OLD TOCCOA FARM - 0.47 ACRE RIVER ACCESS LOT #263206 $185,000

2BR/2.5BA - 1.68 ACRES RETREAT AT WEAVER CREEK #263126 $349,000

252 West Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30512

www.GuideToBlueRidge.com

Kim Knutzen

CI ER M M CO

2 AC - LEVEL, GENTLE, EASY ACCESS - BLUE RIDGE #263313 $60,000

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CO MM ER

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EAST FIRST STREET - 0.21 AC BLUE RIDGE #263007 $325,000

PO

770-402-1908

AL

Managing Broker Luxury Marketing Specialist SMC, ABS

4BR/3BA - 1 ACRE APPALACHIAN HIGHWAY - BLUE RIDGE #263146 $299,000



Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 26, No. 7 - Page 23

Personalizing Your Real Estate Experience Since 1987

www.MayAston.com Go Mobile! Text the red code to 85377 for more photos. Text MayAston to 85377 to search all area homes for sale.

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      

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     

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            

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     

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        

     

      

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     

     

  

Your Satisfaction Is Our Success! 

(941) 545-3417 

 

Page 24 - Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 26, No. 7

Gary Hoskins Gary Hoskins Direct: 941.809.7709 garyhoskinsrealtor@gmail.com

Kendal Hoskins Direct: 941.544.9070 Kendal.Hoskins@floridamoves.com

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www.GaryHoskins.com

         



      

                



                    

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              

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                  



 

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                        

                       

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              

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                

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