At Home Living 082617

Saturday, August 26, 2017 An advertising feature of The Topeka Capital-Journal

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real estate

Expectations vs. reality Buying a home that fits your budget page 6 n Harvesting apples and pears, page 2 n Trendy new colors for fall, page 4 n Outdoor entertainment areas, page 8

keith horinek/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

2 | Saturday, August 26, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal | homes.cjonline.com

Are they ripe yet? Signs apples, pears ready to harvest There’s nothing quite like homegrown fruit. Unlike tomatoes and strawberries, it’s not always easy to tell when an apple or pear is ripe.

By checking a few simple indicators, you can understand the signals your trees are giving you and pick your fruit at the right time.

When looking at apple ripeness, variety is crucial. Some varieties are harvested in July while others won’t be harvested until October.

For a few varieties, you can estimate apple ripeness from the time of the bloom: Jonathan, 135 days; Delicious, 145; Golden Delicious, 145; Winesap, 155.

Keep in mind that cooler weather will increase the number of days until your fruit is ripe.

The next indicator is apple color. Although common sense would indicate a red apple is ready to eat, that isn’t always the case.

Apples often turn red before they are mature, but there is a distinct yellow color at the top and bottom that tell you the apple is close to, if not at, maturity.

Taste is yet another, albeit

Ariel Whitely

‘‘

Paying close attention to your fruit and all the signals it’s giving you will help you harvest at the perfect time and enjoy the peak flavor these fruits can offer. ”

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Master Gardeners will answer your lawn and garden questions from 7:30 a.m. to noon Aug. 26 at the Downtown Topeka Farmers Market, S.W. 12th and S.W. Harrison.

arielw@ksu.edu

more daring, way to test ripeness.

Sampling an apple or two will tell you if they have the sweetness you’re looking for, or if they have a starchy flavor and need more time.

If some apples have already fallen and have this starchy taste, store them because they may become sweeter.

While you’re tasting your apples, look at the color of the flesh.

As the apple’s starches change to sugars, the flesh should change from light green to white. Holding it up to the light may make it easier to determine what color you’re seeing.

Another color factor you can look for is the color of the seeds.

They, too, are light green at immaturity, but turn brown

when the fruit ripens.

This is the least reliable of all the methods, so it should be paired with another indicator.

In combination, these indicators can help discern when your apples are ready to eat.

Unlike apples, pears need to be harvested prior to ripening. If you allow your pears to ripen on the tree, they will develop grit cells and the inner flesh will become brown and soft.

Commercial growers determine the best time to harvest pears by measuring the decrease in fruit firmness as the fruit matures.

A Magness meter is used for testing and measures the pressure needed to push a 5/16inch tip a specified distance into an individual fruit.

Home gardeners have a few less technical methods at their disposal.

First, unlike an apple’s, a pear’s skin color can be an indicator of ripeness.

With pears, you’re looking at the fruit ground color, or the “background” color of the fruit. An unripe pear will have a dark green ground color, while a ripe pear will be light green to yellowish green.

Another indication of ripeness is lifting up and gently twisting the pears while they’re still attached to the tree. If they separate easily, they are ready to be picked.

If you’ve ever seen a pear, you know it has pores all over its skin.

These are call lenticels and they will start out as greenish white, but turn brown with fruit maturity. When the pear is ready to eat, it will look like it has freckles.

A more pleasant indicator as your pear ripens off the tree is

the development of its aroma.

The final way to see if your pears are ripe is the same as with the apple: Sample them.

Pears ripen in one to three weeks after harvest if held at 60 to 65 degrees. Storing at a temperature that’s too high (75 degrees and higher) will result in the fruit breaking down without ripening.

Seeds, skins, flesh and stems are all changing as fruit matures.

Paying close attention to your fruit and all the signals it’s giving you will help you harvest at the perfect time, and enjoy the peak flavor these fruits can offer.

Enjoy your late-summer harvest.

Ariel Whitely is the horticulture agent for Shawnee County Research and Extension.

homes.cjonline.com | The Topeka Capital-Journal | Saturday, August 26, 2017 | 3

Makeovers reap high return on investment for your home

By Staci Giordullo Angie’s List

Angie’s List surveyed top remodelers and real estate professionals to determine which remodeling projects result in the best return on investment when it comes time to sell your home.

“Well-planned and executed home improvements make your house more livable while you live there, and they boost your home’s resale value,” said Angie’s List founder Angie Hicks.

Home remodeling projects with the highest ROI include: n The kitchen.

Whether it’s a major overhaul or just a simple makeover, putting a fresh face on your kitchen is your best investment. Many homes on the market still have cabinets, appliances and fixtures dating back to the 1990s or longer.

Maximize your return by limiting your project cost to no more than 20 percent of the value of your home.

Expect an 85 percent return on your investment. n The bathroom.

An outdated bathroom can spoil a sale. Current trends have homeowners installing large showers instead of garden tubs. A major update by a repu-

FRANK ESPICH

Kitchen upgrades consistently get high returns on investment, as do bathroom and deck upgrades. table bathroom remodeling contractor costs less than $20,000, but it should yield an 80 percent return. n Decks.

A new deck can cost a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on size and materials used.

Before you build, look at other homes in your area and build accordingly. If the deck is in good shape, your return could be more than 80 percent. n Siding.

If your home’s facade is siding and it’s not in good shape, replacing or repairing it can bring instant freshness. You’ll likely spend at least $10,000 for vinyl, more for fiber ce-

Tip of the week: EASE ON DOWN THE ROAD Here are a couple of tips to make traveling a little easier: n Once the medications are gone, fill plastic pill tubes with quarters and place them in your car so they’re handy to pay tolls. n Keep an old shower curtain in your car’s trunk to use as a liner when transporting messy plants, picnic coolers or other gear.

Source: heloise via goodhousekeeping.com

ment, but you should get at least 80 percent back. n Window replacement.

The energy efficiency of new windows is a clear benefit to switching out older windows, but in some cases, it’s a safety feature, too.

Costs depend on the number of windows you’re replacing. Expect a return on your investment of at least 70 percent. n Hiring a remodeling contractor.

Do your due diligence when hiring a contractor for any improvement. Visit Angie’s List for consumer reviews on highly rated contractors, builders and other service professionals.

4 | Saturday, August 26, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal | homes.cjonline.com

Add these colors of fall to your decorating list

By Jillian Knox Finley Domaine

The changing of the leaves has us daydreaming over new home hues. From jewel tones to oversaturated oranges, autumnal tones bring a burst of drama and natural allure to any space.

As interior revamps go, switching up paint colors via a bold accent wall or fullblown makeover is a cost-effective and wildly transformative design project. You’ll definitely get plenty of bang for your buck.

To give you some seasonal inspiration, we’ve honed in our very top shades for fall.

We’re currently craving lush, subdued

neutrals and ephemeral shades that echo the raw beauty of the great outdoors. Paired with chic and artful accessories, these undeniably alluring hues are at the top of our must list for bringing any space up to the moment. Capitalize on the crisp, clean weather and get your home completely turned out in time to welcome in the holidays. Now’s the time to feather your nest.

Winter is coming. n Blood orange.

This season, we’re loving oranges with a kick of red. When painting with brights, sample multiple swatches. Natural light and COLORS continues on 8

DREAMSTIME

Designers are obsessing over oranges with a kick of red this fall. Other popular colors are concrete gray, emerald green, and the evergreen sophistication of chalk white.

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Pot filler faucets typically installed at stovetop

By Ed Del Grande Tribune News Service

Q: Dear Ed, I am a serious home chef and finally have a chance to remodel my kitchen. Because of a tight budget, I want to get the best bang for my buck. I’m thinking of installing a pot filler faucet and know this dedicated fixture will be a high-end item. Do you have any other suggestions to make my stovetop cooking prep a little easier while still being a little more practical?

— Betty, Michigan A: First, I’ll mention that pot filler faucets are tall swinging cold water faucets that usually are installed at the stovetop.

This setup lets you quickly fill cooking pots with water right on or near the stovetop itself.

While convenient, the decorative aspect of a pot filler faucet should not be overlooked. That’s part of the fun.

Now, if you want to explore

Kohler

A pot filler faucet lets you quickly fill cooking pots with water right on or near the stovetop itself. other options in place of a dedicated pot filler, here’s a suggestion. I’ve seen homeowners install a small prep sink with a tall arching faucet near the stovetop.

This way you get all the advan-

tages of a prep sink plus a water source close to the stovetop.

Either way, you’ll be spending a little extra, but that’s what happens when you cook up a highend plan for your new kitchen.

Master contractor/plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book “Ed Del Grande’s House Call,” the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com.

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DON’T BUST YOUR BUDGET

Home is where the heart ... ... actually, it’s much more important for it to be a home you can afford

By Shanna Sloyer

Special to The Capital-Journal

Making the decision to become a homeowner is one of the most important financial investments many of us will make, and financing a home purchase is the first step in the process.

Using a trusted lender can save thousands of dollars in unexpected fees and hidden costs, and a good Realtor can help buyers set and stick to a realistic budget.

“The most important thing that we can recommend is to research the lender options,” said Jamie Sauder, president of Sunflower Association of Realtors. “Don’t just go for the cheapest rate. Buyers need to make sure they have a good understanding of what the lender’s fees are, too.”

Some of the worst deals Sauder has seen are borrowers who have gone online or to out-of-town lenders advertising lower interest rates. In reality, these lenders charge high fees upfront in exchange for what only amounts to nominal interest savings in the end.

Once a lender is selected, borrowers receive a pre-approval letter stating the amount they are approved to borrow toward a future mortgage. Lenders approve loan amounts based on the debtto-income ratio of the borrower.

This is determined by how much debt a borrower carries on expenses, such as car payments, cell phone bills, credit cards and other debts they’re obligated to pay on each month, versus how much income they generate during the same time period.

According to Tim Murray, senior mortgage consultant at Capitol Federal Savings, most banks adhere to the Ability-to-Repay guidelines from federal regulators, which provide a framework for determining what a borrower

can afford.

“Each borrower’s financial situation and goals are unique,” Murray said. “Capitol Federal has experienced loan staff available to assist borrowers in determining what may be right for them.”

Murray recommends having a pre-approval letter in hand prior to beginning to look at properties.

This helps buyers maintain realistic expectations and shows they are serious about buying versus just looking.

Potential buyers might be surprised to find they qualify for a larger loan amount than they initially guessed. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that buying a home at the top of your budget could mean sacrificing on travel, dining out, home improvements, vehicle purchases and other lifestyle considerations in the future.

“It’s a very personal decision how much one would like to spend,” Sauder said. “Some like to spend as much as they can afford and others don’t. As Realtors, we mainly try to make sure that we search for homes that are appropriate for the budget the buyer has set forth.”

First-time borrowers often forget to factor ongoing maintenance expenses into their long-term budget, which can leave them in a pinch. Murray reminds clients to account for expenses such as the replacement of air filters, repairing or replacing hot water heaters, the replacement of appliances as they wear out and painting, mowing and landscaping costs — all of which can add up quickly.

He also encourages them to plan for annual increases in real estate taxes and homeowners insurance when creating a housing budget.

In order to stay within budget HOME continues on 7

PHOTOGRAPHS BY KEITH HORINEK/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

The seller added a new coat of paint to the home’s exterior to make it more appealing to buyers. Realtors have the expertise to steer buyers toward properties that are fairly priced and within their budget.

Carrie Calhoon, a Realtor with ReeceNichols Topeka Elite, and potential buyer Randy McCune, of Topeka, look over a fireplace in a Topeka home that is for sale. The seller made several improvements to the home, such as replacing carpet and repainting walls. McCune was looking for a home that fit his budget, didn’t need a lot of work and was move-in ready.

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Home: Hidden costs can dent budget Continued from 6

PHOTOGRAPHS BY KEITH HORINEK/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Carrie Calhoon shows potential buyer Randy McCune the kitchen appliances that will stay with the house when it is purchased. Buyers need to be aware of hidden costs when purchasing a home, such as if they will need to buy new appliances or furniture.

Tim Murray, senior mortgage consultant at Capitol Federal Savings, recommends home buyers secure a pre-approval letter before they begin looking at properties. The letter helps buyers maintain realistic expectations and shows they are serious about buying versus just looking.

and avoid costly repairs that could come up right away, Sauder recommends ordering a thorough inspection of the property before closing. Being diligent during the inspection period can uncover issues and help avoid budget-blowing trouble down the road.

“The most important part of a transaction is the inspection period,” Sauder said. “I have always believed that if there is something bad about a house, it is better to find it during inspections and have a deal fall apart than it is to find out the hard way, which is after closing.”

When selling and purchasing homes simultaneously, making two mortgage payments or paying for temporary housing and storage should be factored into the budget if closings aren’t aligned. Renting a moving truck and purchasing new furniture also contribute to hidden costs and aren’t covered by the terms of a home loan. It’s a good idea to have some extra money set aside for these incidental expenses.

Deal seekers may find the idea of purchasing a fixer-upper tempting and see it as a way to save money, but Sauder encourages first-time buyers to proceed with caution.

“Buying properties that need improvements is something that is not for beginners,” Sauder said.

“These scenarios require some experience in ownership. For those that are investing, it is important to have the money on hand to make the necessary repairs.”

There are some loans that allow buyers to borrow money for the purpose of making improvements.

However, they typically require bids and estimates for

the cost of repairs and work to be performed by licensed contractors.

“It’s important to go into a project with a plan and a budget, and that budget needs to include a contingency plan for when something unplanned comes up,” Sauder said.

Another mistake firsttime buyers make is abandoning a budget altogether because the right house at the right price isn’t currently on the market or by buying a house based on emotional decision-making alone.

“Inventory is low, so it is likely that the perfect house at the perfect price won’t be readily available,” Sauder said. “It’s OK to be patient and wait to find the one.

The right house will come along, and when it does two things will happen. First, you will know it is the one, and second, your Realtor will help you get the best deal possible.”

Sauder recommends using a Realtor to stay within budget and help buyers look objectively at what is realistic and what may be beyond reach. This advice also extends to those looking to sell at a good price and in a reasonable amount of time.

“Realtors are very good at telling what a home is worth as it sits and what it could be worth with improvements,” Sauder said.

“We get to do this every day, and when we come up with a price, we typically have stats to back that opinion up. In the kind of market that we are in now, sellers who have priced their properties competitively have gotten more money for their homes and (sold) faster. My advice would be to listen to the pros.”

Shanna Sloyer is a freelance writer from Topeka. You can reach her at ssloyer@yahoo.com.

8 | Saturday, August 26, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal | homes.cjonline.com

Design projects boost outdoor enjoyment

By Cathy Hobbs

Colors: Neutrals a timeless option

Tribune News Service

Continued from 4

Fall is a popular time to enjoy the outdoors, and summer is a good time to start thinking about fall improvements to a home.

If you’re looking for some ideas for ways to spruce up your home, consider creating some outdoor entertainment areas. n Outdoor kitchens, which can be basic or elaborate. There are companies that will create an all-inone unit that just has to be hooked up with the help of professionals. n Swing sets and play areas. Many children love playing with neighbors and friends. What better way to do this than enjoying their own swing set? n Fire pits, which are especially enjoyable on a chilly fall night. n Hot tubs, which come

square footage will make a major impact on the overall aesthetic. n Petrol blue.

One of our favorite online vintage sources, 1stdibs, first alerted us to this particular shade of azure.

The dusty and dramatic blue is elegant and striking without ever veering into melodrama. The sublimely subtle hue is entirely handsome. n Concrete gray.

We’ve been really feeling concrete this year. The pared-down architectural vibe of the raw material lends a structured precision and raw, dynamic appeal to modern accessories and furniture. Light gray channels soothing, tranquil notes that feel consistently edited and poised. n Terra-cotta.

DESIGN RECIPES

A firepit can provide year-round enjoyment. in different sizes and shapes, and remain a popular outdoor addition. n Decks and patios. Decks can be built year-round, and the fall is the perfect time to prepare foundation and supports to build through the winter. n Pools. Many people

looking to enjoy a summer pool often start planning and even building in the fall.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com.

One Fine Stay’s Via Zara in Northern Rome is the stuff dreams and passport stamps are made of. Nod to the crisp fall weather by bringing natural, outdoorcentric hues indoors. We especially love the soulful and unexpected combination of earthy terra-cotta with lustrous teal. n Ash blond.

Neutrals are eternal. The poise and restraint of the perfect blond is perennially chic and undeniably timeless. This season, we’re all about subtle tan shades on the cooler side of the spectrum. It’s beige with a side of dusty, overcast appeal. n Emerald City green.

Ever since Gwyneth Paltrow breezed on screen in Alfonso Cuaron’s “Great Expectations” in 1998, we’ve been swooning over emerald green as the official color mascot of fall. Pairing

crisp whites with dimensional marble and pops of greenery, the adept blend of deep hue and edited, modern embellishments is intelligent and muse-worthy. n Matte black.

Black doesn’t have to be serious and moody. Matte black walls evoke iconic high-contrast appeal while still keeping the vibe exuberant and relaxed. This season, we’re making a strong case for adding in a dose of dark art cool. n Chalk white.

Are we ever going to get over the all-white space aesthetic? No. We’ll never let go. If you share in our affinity for pure white abodes (the serene sophistication, the unfettered glamour, the bright calm), feel free to wax poetic along with us via a fresh coat of chalk white paint. It remains the ultimate refresh.

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