Upstate Real Estate January 2019

Real Estate UPSTATE

& HOME SERVICES

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What an appraiser does and why you need one Page 4

646-320-7715 • 607-437-4176

31 Marion Avenue Gilbertsville, NY 2,784 sq. ft., 4 beds, 2 baths $184,900

Four ways to display your decorative dishware Page 8

How to keep your New Year’s budget resolutions Page 12

VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 1 | JANUARY 2019

Real Estate UPSTATE

& HOME SERVICES

A Publication of The Daily Star

102 Chestnut Street, Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-1000 • www.thedailystar.com PUBLISHER Fred Scheller fscheller@thedailystar.com (607) 441-7214

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Valerie Secor vsecor@thedailystar.com (607) 441-7235

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tracy Bender

Remodel for fire safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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What an appraiser does and why you need one. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Add a pop of purple around the house. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Accent ceilings: a great weay to make any room stand out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Make sure you’re prepared for a financial emergency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Four ways to display your decorative dishware.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 2

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Key questions to ask during an open house.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 How to keep your New Year’s budget resolutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 What is Universal Design?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Throw pillows: the easy way to integrate seasonal decor.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Climate gentrification: rising temperatures and the urban housing market.. . . . . . . . . 18

Remodel for fire safety (MS) — By Scott McGillivray It’s surprising that, although millions of homes are remodeled in America each year, few homeowners realize the importance of remodeling with fire safety in mind. While smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are top of mind, do you know how you can improve passive fire protection in your home?

Passive fire safety installations do not alert you to, or react to, the presence of fire in your home. This type of fire precaution is part of the core of the building and will help to control the fire by limiting its spread.

One very effective form of passive fire protection is the installation of insulation. When adding or upgrading insulation, look for products made from naturally fire-resistant, inorganic materials. A favorite among builders, contractors and homeowners is a stone wool insulation called Roxul Safe “n” Sound, which offers fire resistance up to 2,150° F. Its melting point is higher than the temperature of a typical house fire, which means it will stay in place longer to provide passive fire protection when every second counts.

Effective compartmentalization through the use of fire-resistant materials can help avoid the spread of fire to other areas of the home, and more importantly, protect vital escape routes. Consider installing a fire-resistant insulation in walls, floors and ceilings to maximize protection and escape time.

Scott McGillivray is the award-winning TV host of the hit series “Income Property” on DIY Network, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author, and educator. Follow him on Twitter @smcgillivray.

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What an appraiser does and why you need one

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January 2019

In order to obtain a mortgage, you’ll likely need to hire a professional appraiser to assess the home’s value.

Lenders typically require a professional appraisal to confirm the current market value of your would-be home. This is because they want to protect their investment and be certain that they could get their money back by selling the property if you default on your loan.

Appraisers look at many factors to determine your home’s market value. Above all, they look at comparable sales, often called “comps” for short. These figures show how much similar properties sold for in your area in the last 90 days. They’ll compare your home with other homes recently put on the market in terms of square footage, condition, appearance and amenities.

In some cases, it may be worth hiring a professional appraiser when you’re selling your home and trying to determine a fair asking price. Although most real estate agents can also provide you with a comparative market analysis of your home, an appraiser can step in to give an unbiased assessment if you receive conflicting estimates from different agents.

Add a pop of

PURPLE

around the house

Pantone named “Ultra Violet” its color of the year in 2018, helping to create a resurgence in popularity of all things purple. As a result, homeowners who pride themselves on staying on top of the latest trends have increasingly turned to purple when designing their home interiors.

Purple influences can range from the dramatic to the subtle. Here are some ways to embrace purple in your home.

next homeowner to embrace a purple accent wall than an entire room decorated in this jeweled tone.

Transition bedroom color

Modern kitchen

Use accent items It’s easy to add a splash of plum or other variations of purple without making a permanent commitment. Dress up neutral decor with throw pillows, rugs, table linens, or draperies in all shades of purple. As trends change, it’s easy to exchange accent items.

Purple has long been a favorite shade for adolescents who are growing up and moving away from pinks and peaches into more mature room colors. Purple looks well when accented by white, magenta and yellow.

Even though it is embraced by young girls, purple also can be used by adults who want to create soothing retreats in their bedrooms.

Create an accent wall A purple room may intimidate people who prefer mild, more neutral design schemes. But a purple accent wall can add a pop of color, suggest the home experts at Realtor. com. When it comes time to list a home, it’s easier for the

Homeowners can offset efficient, modern design in kitchens characterized by white cabinetry and stainless appliances with some wellplaced grape focal points. A purple backsplash, purple-clad island or lavender bar stools can lend vibrancy to a space.

Purple powder room A purple guest bathroom is the ideal place to help overnight guests feel regal. Violet and deeper shades of purple can feel warm and luxurious. Beige or cream bathrooms can be enhanced with a deep purple bath mat, shower curtain and hand towels.

Purple is hot right now and turning up in unexpected places in many homes.

TOWN OF ONEONTA! Ranch style home with Public Sewer & Water and a partially finished basement & fully furnished basement apartment!

Attached 1 car basement garage, finished basement /mother-inlaw apartment; spacious back yard, covered back deck.... this is a must see as the possibilities are here for a primary residence or to continue as an investment rental.

6 Raymond Ave • Oneonta, NY 13820 • $164,900 Adam Pierce NYS LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON, PSA

Phone: 607-431-2540 x110 Mobile: 607-287-2956 adampierce@kw.com www.UpstateNYHomesAndLand.com

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Accent ceilings: holiday decorating ideas for the enthusiast

a great way to make any room stand out When it comes to interior decorating, ceilings are rarely considered beyond the customary coat of white paint. But instead of ignoring your ceilings, think about highlighting them to make your rooms really stand out.

A jewel-toned ceiling in an otherwise neutral room

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will make the room look taller while adding a lively pop of color.

Tin ceiling tiles (or plastic ones made to look like metal) add a touch of old school glamour to any space, especially a kitchen.

If you have a home with unconventional ceilings that are vaulted or beamed,

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January 2019

painting them will highlight the unique feature.

Likewise, consider using wallpaper on a tray or recessed ceiling for greater impact.

Paint and wallpaper aren’t the only things you can put on your accent ceiling.

Hang a tapestry on the ceiling for a bohemian look or

decorate a child’s bedroom with polka dot decals for a modern take on the glowin-the-dark stars you may have grown up with.

No matter how you choose to embellish your ceiling, make sure you don’t overwhelm the room by keeping the walls simple.

Make sure you’re prepared for a

financial emergency

E

ven if you have a well-paying job, affordable living costs and few debts, it’s important not to take a good financial situation for granted. Here are some steps you can take to prepare yourself for a financial emergency:

1. Have an emergency fund. Financial experts recommend creating a savings account with enough money to cover six months’ worth of expenses. That way if disaster strikes, you’re prepared.

2. Have adequate insurance. It’s essential to have renter’s or homeowner’s insurance in case of disaster. It’s also a good idea to get disability insurance, which covers your expenses if you become ill or disabled and can’t work.

3. Make sure to have credit available. In a financial emergency, you may need to bill expenses to your credit cards until you’re able to pay them off. Before financial disaster occurs, however, it’s important to do your best to avoid credit card debt and pay off your outstanding balances as quickly as possible.

4. Plan how to cut expenses quickly. Examine your expenses and identify where you can cut back. In an emergency, gym memberships and TV packages can be cancelled, and money spent on eating out can be reduced or eliminated entirely.

If you prepare for an emergency now, your financial plan won’t be totally derailed if you’re faced with a debilitating illness or injury, unexpected job loss or costly damage to your home.

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Four ways to display your decorative dishware

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re you tired of keeping your beautiful dishes hidden away? Why not use them to decorate your home so you can enjoy them all year round? Here are some ways to turn your dishware into decor: 1. Exhibit them in a cabinet. If your dishes are family heirlooms or especially valuable, the best way to display them is behind glass. Choose a glass-fronted cabinet or hutch with shelves for showing off your collection.

2. Hang plates on the wall. Hang your most beautiful ornamental plates and other dishes on the wall using hooks or plate hangers, either individually or as part of a tasteful arrangement.

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January 2019

3. Use individual pieces as accents. Choose a few key dishes to use as decor in your living room, kitchen or bedrooms. Larger pieces like teapots and tureens can stand on their own on small tables or shelves while smaller dishes like teacups can be used to dress up bookcases and bathroom counters.

4. Repurpose them in your home. If you have dishes you’re holding onto but no longer use, consider turning them into something new. Old teacups, plates, bowls and pitchers make great vases, planters, candleholders and soap dishes.

Another way to display your dishware? Remove the doors of your kitchen cabinets so the shelving is exposed. This way, you can show off your best dishes while keeping them near the stove so you can easily use them whenever the occasion arises.

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Key questions to ask during an

OPEN HOUSE

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January 2019

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o get the most out of open houses, always ask the listing

agent these four questions:

1. When was the house last updated? Ask the listing agent about recent upgrades and how long ago features like the roof and electrical system were updated. You don’t want to have to pay for major repairs once you move in.

2. What issues does the home come with?

No matter how recently renovated, all houses have their issues. Find out in advance what the home’s biggest problems are so there are no surprises during the home inspection — or worse, after you move in.

3. How much do utilities cost? Knowing the average cost of utilities will give you an idea of how energy efficient the house is. Keep in mind that older homes can be more costly to heat and cool.

4. Was there a change in price? If a house’s asking price was lowered, proceed with caution—there may be a reason why it’s not selling.

However, sometimes a new asking price simply indicates that the owner’s getting impatient to sell.

Can’t make the open house? No problem. Simply email or call the listing agent to get answers to the above questions.

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How to keep your New Year’s budget resolutions 12

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January 2019

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any of us resolve to tighten our budgets after the holidays. Here are three tips to help you keep your financial resolutions in 2019: Make your resolutions specific. Resolutions like “spend less money” or “stick to a budget” are too vague and don’t explain how you’re going to change your financial habits. It’s better to establish more concrete goals, such as reducing your grocery bill by half or paying off one of your credit cards.

Establish short-term and long-term goals. Maybe your long-term goals are to buy a house and save enough to retire at 65, but your short-term goals include saving for a family vacation and buying a new car. Both types of goals need to be factored into your overall financial plan. Short-term goals, however, are more likely to motivate you to stay on budget because they’re more easily achieved.

Analyze last year’s holiday spending. If you overspent during the holidays, January is the ideal time to look back at your December expenses. Although you may not be ready to think about next holiday season, reviewing your finances now will help you plan for next year so you don’t make the same spending mistakes.

With the right planning and mindset, you’ll find it’s possible to stick to your New Year’s budget resolutions after all.

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What is Universal Design?

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niversal Design is an approach to architecture and design that seeks to make spaces accessible to all people, regardless of age, size or ability.

The term was coined by Ronald Mace, an architect who focused

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on making public spaces easier for people with physical disabilities to use.

Universal Design differs from other approaches to accessible design and assistive technology because instead of trying to meet the specific needs of

January 2019

individuals, it strives to integrate people with disabilities into the mainstream. In other words, it focuses on offering accessibility to everyone rather than helping people with disabilities cope with barriers that could have been avoided in the first place.

Common Universal Design features include ramps, curb cuts and push-button doors, which not only assist individuals with limited mobility but also make spaces easy for all people to use.

Although typically used in public spaces, people can integrate Universal Design principles into their homes.

Here are few ways this can be done: • Replace door locks with keyless entry systems • Have a full bathroom on the ground floor • Use open shelving in the kitchen instead of cabinets with doors • Install grab bars and no-slip flooring in the bathroom • Replace faucets with touchless or single-lever controls • Invest in a walk-in shower With life expectancies rising and higher survival rates for people with disabling conditions, disability-friendly homes are increasingly in demand. Taking steps to make your home more universally accessible will likely prove beneficial and could become a selling point should your home go on the market.

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UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

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THROW PILLOWS: the easy way to integrate seasonal decor

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hen the seasons change, you probably change the clothes you wear and the food you eat. Why should your living room be any different?

If you’re not the type to have multiple boxes of decorations but you still want your space to feel seasonal, try swapping out your throw pillows.

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January 2019

Spring and summer With the bright sun and warm days, these seasons call for bright colors and light textures.

Go for botanical or gingham prints, and don’t be afraid to mix patterns. For an extra warm-weather vibe, go for breezy linen and cotton fabrics.

Fall and winter When the weather cools down, you might want your living room to have a cozier feel. Throw pillows in darker, moodier tones made of rich fabrics like velvet are perfect for this time of year. For

an après-ski feel, choose knitted wool pillows.

No matter the time of year, be sure to choose pillows in a variety of shapes, colors and textures for visual interest, but keep your seasonal theme in mind to maintain a cohesive look.

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Climate gentrification: rising temperatures and the urban housing market

Is climate change affecting the real estate market? Without a doubt, the answer to this question is yes. Due to an increasing number of wildfires in the west and major floods along our nation’s coasts, homes in areas affected by climate-related disasters are losing their value. While coastal properties were once worth a fortune, 18

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many people no longer want to invest in real estate that could literally end up underwater.

A study by researchers at Harvard University, however, illustrates that climate change is affecting the urban real estate market in a different way. As coastal homes become increasingly vulnerable January 2019

to flooding, wealthy people are selling waterfront properties and moving into low-income areas that are less susceptible to flooding. As properties at higher elevations appreciate in value, low-income families are priced out and forced to seek more affordable housing elsewhere.

The researchers call this phenomenon climate gentrification and identify a few pathways through which it occurs: Superior investment pathway: since waterfront property is no longer a sound investment, property values in wealthy, coastal areas like Miami Beach drop as people invest more in poorer neighbourhoods like Little Haiti, thereby driving out existing residents.

Cost-burden pathway: the cost of making homes resistant to flooding becomes so high that lower-in-

come people move out of coastal and water-locked cities altogether (for instance, people leaving Venice for Italy’s mainland).

Resilience investment pathway: as cities invest in making housing more resilient to climate-related disasters, property values go up and lower-income households are forced out.

Overall, the study reveals that climate change affects not only our weather but also the values of our homes and the demographics of our cities.

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