Everything Home - May 2021

EVERYTHING

HOME

Real Estate & Home Services Guide

Foundation cracks: when to worry Page 6

Smart home features that buyers want Page 10 VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 2 | MAY 2021

3 signs you’re ready to buy a home Page 17

EVERYTHING

HOME

Real Estate & Home Services Guide A Publication of The Daily Star

102 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-1000 | thedailystar.com

PUBLISHER Fred Scheller fscheller@thedailystar.com (607) 441-7214

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

Hardwood floor finishes and what they’re best for. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Foundation cracks: when to worry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 5 common decorating mistakes (and how to fix them). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 A brief look at bathroom trends. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Smart home features that buyers want. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Tips for homeowners upgrading their garage door. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

LAYOUT Tracy Bender

Turn your new house into a home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Travertine flooring: is it right for your home?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Popular window styles and where to use them. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 3 signs you’re ready to buy a home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Did you know? How to move family movie night outdoors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Exterior siding: how long do various types last?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Content provided by Newspaper Toolbox and Metro Creative Services.

2

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

May 2021

Hardwood floor finishes and what they’re best for

1 2 3 4

|

Do you need to refinish your hardwood floors?

If so, here’s a brief guide to five common types that are available.

1. Water-based polyurethane is ideal for floors in need of a quick-drying, clear finish. This is a product that’s low in VOCs and ages without yellowing. However, it does little to hide scratches.

2. Oil-based polyurethane is best for floors in high-traffic areas. It’s highly durable and easy to maintain. On the downside, it’s slow to dry, high in VOCs and yellows over time.

3. Moisture cure urethane is well suited to floors that require a very tough finish. It resists moisture, scratches, stains and general wear. However, it has high levels of VOCs and applying it requires you to vacate your home.

EVERYTHING HOME

|

May 2021

4 5 *

4. Wax is great anywhere you want a low-sheen finish. Unfortunately, it’s not very durable and tends to darken over time. It can scuff and scratch easily and doesn’t mix well with water.

5. Penetrating oil sealer is ideal for subtly highlighting the natural grain of wood, es­­pecially in a historic home. This product needs to be reapplied every few years and re­ quires a wax topcoat.

You’ll find these products at your local hardware store. For top-notch results, consider hiring a professional to strip and sand your wood floors and then expertly apply the finish.

20850 State Highway 28

Foundation cracks: when to worry

The best way to ensure a crack in your foundation doesn’t threaten the structural integrity of your home is to consult an expert. How­ever, some general guidelines can help you determine if you have a serious problem.

Hairline cracks Concrete shrinks slightly as it cures, and hairline cracks (about the width of sewing thread) are a normal result of it settling. They pose no structural threat and tend to appear within a year of construction. How­ever, you should take steps to patch them.

Narrow cracks Vertical or diagonal cracks that can’t be classified as hairline but are no wider than 1/4 of an inch are unlikely to be a serious problem. However, this is only the case if the cracks are stable and aren’t conti­ nuing to expand. Thin cracks can be filled with grout, and slightly wider ones should be filled with a caulk that’s compatible with concrete.

Wide cracks Any crack that’s wider than 1/2 an inch should be inspected by a professional. In particular, those with a bulge may indicate structural problems. Additionally, a crack in your foundation that’s horizontal rather than vertical or diagonal presents more of a risk.

If you have wide cracks, horizontal cracks or cracks that are getting worse, be sure to call a foundation contractor or structural engineer.

6

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

May 2021

5 common decorating mistakes (and how to fix them)

2. Undersized rug The size of a rug should be large enough for all the furniture in a given space. Avoid choosing a rug that’s too small for the area, as this can make your design look disjointed.

3. Excessive pillows Too many pillows can overwhelm a space and make your couches and chairs impractical to sit on. Instead, display a modest amount and swap them out as the seasons change.

4. Unbalanced lighting Use multiple types of lighting in every room. A combination of overhead lights, standing lamps and task lighting will ensure you have the right ambience and ample illumination in your home.

I

5. Uncomfortable seating

1. No focal point

Opt for dining room chairs and living room couches that are comfortable to sit on rather than just stylish. Be sure to try before you buy, as this is the best strategy for finding pieces you can comfortably sit on for hours.

A focal point lends balance, harmony and cohesion to a space. It can be a fireplace, a mirror, a piece of art or an architectural feature. When designing a room, start with the focal point and build around it.

Remember, you don’t have to tackle design issues on your own. An interior designer or decorator can help you pinpoint problem areas and come up with creative solutions.

s your decor looking a little lackluster? Here are five common decorating mistakes and some suggestions for how you can fix them.

May 2021

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

7

A brief look at bathroom

M

TRENDS

arble bathrooms are timelessly elegant, and in 2021, interior designers are increasingly using this type of stone. Here are some other trends to consider for your next bathroom remodel.

Gold fixtures, faucets and mirrors are taking the spotlight. A matte or brushed finish is the way to go.

Natural elements like loose stones, wood cabinets and plants are lending bathrooms an organic feel.

Open showers are on trend, especially those with luxurious features like an in­tegrated bench, a misting

8

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

May 2021

system, ambient lighting, an anti-fog mirror and a linear drain.

Island vanities that feature two sinks sitting back to back rather than side by side are a chic upgrade for a large bath­room.

Lastly, technology is playing an increasingly important role in bathroom design. If you’re planning a remodel, you can ask your contractor to incorporate featu­res like USB chargers in vanity dra­wers, appcontrolled speakers and smart sho­wer heads that conserve water.

Call one of our real estate professionals at your local Howard Hanna office today!

SOLD COLONIAL CHARM A wonderful home, full of history. 4300+ SF, 7BR, 4BA w/ HUGE carriage barn on 10 park-like acres. $349,000 James Michalowski 386-451-0064 Cell

COUNTRY COTTAGE Completely renovated, move-in ready, one bedroom cottage w/full bath. Att’d garage, patio & covered porch. Walkable to Oxford veteran’s home.

15 minutes to Norwich. $89,900 James Michalowski 386-451-0064 Cell

Don’t wait to buy real estate.

Call me today for all your real estate needs!

Call Donna Schulz at 607-267-6330 Cell

SOLD

SOLD VERY CLEAN! Singlewide w/many updates: Windows, Carpet, subflooring, Bath & Furnace. Septic too! 2 sheds, blacktop driveway. $53,500 Call Joan Hale 607-206-8717 Cell

Call Donna Schulz at 607-267-6330 Cell

WORK REMOTELY! Custom 4BD, 3BA home on 2.25 Acres. Finished walk-out basement, 3 outbuildings. Plus, HUGE 60x80 steel workshop for home business or store your classic cars. $259,000 Kattie Flanagin 607.316.9240 Cell

MOVE-IN CONDITION 3/2 w/nice floor plan, updated electric, new roof & plumbing. Black top drive, 2-car garage. $101,000 Call Joan Hale 607-206-8717 Cell

STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER! Or an Organic Farm. 73 Acres w/Apple tree orchard & blueberries. Become a creative farmer! $450,000 Richard “Dick” Koppenaal 607-437-2380 Cell

Don’t wait to buy real estate.

Call me today for all your real estate needs!

RENOVATED RANCH! All systems have been updated! 2BD, 2BA that you can move right in. Do NOTHING but RELAX! Four season room w/great entertaining space out back. $139,000 Kattie Flanagin 607.316.9240 Cell

Don’t wait to buy real estate.

Call me today for all your real estate needs!

Call Donna Schulz at 607-267-6330 Cell

SOLD Don’t wait to buy real estate.

Call me today for all your real estate needs!

Call Donna Schulz at 607-267-6330 Cell

MAJESTIC CENTER HALL On over 5 manicured acres with babbling Thorp Brook.

High ceilings, massive rooms, HW floors.

Opportunity to be a B & B again. $375,000 Cindy Easler 607.287.3395 Cell

Smart home features that buyers want

Each and every time we work with clients we want them to experience the care and trust in knowing we are there through the entire process.

FO R

SA LE

This isn’t just a house, this is your home.

One of the best ways to gain an edge in the real estate market is with smart technologies that provide improvements in comfort, convenience and security.

Here are three smart home features that home buyers are increasingly interes­ted in.

1. Smart home security Smart security systems provide robust all-round protection. They consolidate various security tools — burglar alarms, fire alarms, locks, surveillance cameras and lighting — in one wall-mounted touch panel and smart phone app, al­lowing you to fine-tune your home security and manage and monitor your system from a distance.

2. Smart thermostats Smart thermostats allow homeowners to remotely adjust their heating and air conditioning using an application on their phone. Many can also be paired with ventilation systems and humidifiers. These devices help homeowners save energy and enjoy optimal comfort by automa­tically adjusting the temperature according to their usage needs and preferences.

3. Smart appliances Homebuyers appreciate that smart fridges, wa­shers, dryers, stoves and other appliances are generally more energy efficient and offer various useful features. For example, a smart stove allows users to preheat the oven from their smartphone and receive alerts when the cooking has finished. Additionally, certain smart washer and dryer units use artificial intelligence to determine the weight and fabric softness of each load in order to select the optimal wash cycle.

If you have any of these home technologies, flaunt them when selling your house. If not, consider upgrading your home to make it “smarter.”

MLS #130137

607-353-1903 HartmanDuke.KW.com

Tips for homeowners upgrading their garage door

R

eplacing your garage door is a home renovation project with a high return on investment. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re making this upgrade.

1. Use manufacturer websites. Choose a door design you like by perusing your options online. Many manufacturers have software on their website that lets you upload a photo of your home and try on different garage door styles.

2. Invest in good insulation. The effectiveness of a garage door’s insulation is referred to by its R-value.

The higher the number, the better the door prevents heat transfer. Garage doors insulated with polyurethane are the most efficient.

3. Opt for the best springs. Springs are what hold the weight of your garage door and allow it to effortlessly move up and down. Standard torsion springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, but those rated for 20,000 cycles are only a little bit more expensive and well worth the extra cost.

4. Buy an opener at the same time. If your opener is showing its age or you want one with the latest features, this is the perfect time to replace it. You can save on installation costs by having your con­trac­tor put in the door and opener at the same time.

Finally, make sure you hire a professional to install your ga­rage door as this job can be complex, timeconsuming and dangerous.

May 2021

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

11

Turn your new house into a

home

After moving into a new house, it can take some effort to turn that house into a true home and feel comfortable in your new environs. These steps can help that process along.

immediately enjoy your hard work.

• Create at least one complete and serene space.

Focus on setting up the bedroom so you can retreat at the end of the day. Invest in new furniture or get new bedding to give the room this comforting feeling.

• Bring mementos. Your first home may bring about warm feelings. While you can’t recreate it entirely, you can use a piece of furniture or a few family heirlooms to make your new space feel homey.

• Create an organizational plan. It can be tempting to want to throw everything in closets and unpack quickly, but give yourself time to fully analyze where you want to store items, where you may need to paint or reconfigure spaces, as well as any home improvements you want to make before taking out all of your stuff. When you fully unpack, you can

• Rely on familiar scents. Break in the new space with familiar aromas, whether it’s preferential air fresheners, scented candles or baking your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe.

• Hang artwork. Hang a few select pieces of artwork or family photos shortly after moving in. Surround yourself with things that make you feel good.

Moving into a new home can be exciting. Certain touches can help make the new space feel more like home.

May 2021

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

13

Travertine flooring: is it right for your home?

T

ravertine is a type of limestone that naturally forms in deposits near mineral springs. It comes in earthy neutral colors like beige, tan, offwhite and gray and has a fibrous, marble-like appearance.

As a flooring material, it’s sold in tiles by the square foot. While very durable, it does require ongoing maintenance and care. This is because travertine is a porous material, which makes it prone to staining and etching. It should be coated with a protective sealant upon installation and then again every three to five years. Travertine floors should also be regularly swept and mopped to prevent scratches and discoloration.

In terms of cost, travertine is a mid-range stone that tends to be more affordable than marble but more expensive than granite. It’s not the cheapest type of flooring for your home, but it isn’t the most lavish either.

Travertine has a timeless quality that complements both traditional and contemporary design styles. It typically comes in one of four finishes — polished, honed, tumbled or brushed — and the type you choose will impact whether your floors look glossy and refined or rustic and weathered.

So, is travertine flooring right for your home?

If you have an ample budget and want a floor that gives your home a sense of reserved dignity and prestige, travertine may be the right pick.

14

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

May 2021

HARDWOOD • WATERPROOF FLOORS

Popular window styles and where to use them Do you want to update the windows in your home? If so, here are some popular types and where they might look best.

Double-hung windows feature two large sashes that slide up and down along vertical tracks. They perfectly complement rambler, farmhouse, bungalow and other modern-traditional style homes.

They have many customization options and look good in almost any room.

Slider windows are available in a variety of styles, materials and finishes. They open horizontally rather than vertically, which makes them ideal for spa­ces with horizontal features. For example, they look good over a counter or in a hallway. Since slider windows are easy to open and close, they’re also practical in hard-to-reach spaces.

16

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

May 2021

Casement windows open inward or out­ward with a mechanical crank. They’re well suited to contemporary homes and great in rooms where you want to let in a cool breeze.

Bay and bow windows extend out­ward from the home and are traditionally composed of a picture win­­dow flanked by one or more pairs of double-hung or casement windows. Place them anywhere that overlooks a view or in a living room, family room or bedroom that needs a focal point.

The best windows for your home will depend on your budget and style. In all cases, however, it’s best to make sure they’re energy efficient (look for the Energy Star label) and installed by an experienced contractor.

Did you know?

3 signs you’re ready to buy a home Do you want to buy your own house? If so, here are three indications it’s time to take the leap and begin shopping for a home.

Social distancing recommendations issued in response to the COVID-19 pandemic compelled people to spend more time at home than ever before. As the pandemic wore on, people looked for ways to enjoy activities in their backyards so they would not become overwhelmed by cabin fever. Home theater projectors afford homeowners the chance to bring the magic of family movie nights outdoors. The tech experts at Digital Trends® note that modern projectors are a great way to enjoy a true cinematic experience at home, even if your “theater” is under the stars in the backyard. Some projectors are designed to remain outdoors so long as homeowners take the steps necessary to protect the devices from the weather. In fact, projectors are small and so easily moved that homeowners can take them inside at the end of each movie to ensure they’re not damaged by the elements. In such instances, only the screen and the audio components, like speakers, will require protection from the elements. But even interior projectors can be taken outdoors when homeowners decide to watch a movie outdoors. Projectors can even be used to watch television outdoors, making them options worth considering for sports fans who may be restricted from seeing their favorite teams in person this season.

Watching television on a projector without a cable box may require a little extra effort and a few more accessories than streaming a movie outdoors, and homeowners would be wise to consult a home entertainment professional to ensure their setup is good to go before inviting anyone over to watch the big game under the stars.

1. You can afford the down payment If you have enough money saved to make a 10 percent down payment, you’re in good shape. However, 20 percent is even better as you’ll avoid having to pay for mortgage insurance.

There are some home loans that require as little as three percent, but you should only consider these offers as a last resort since you’ll pay thousands of dollars more in interest charges in the long run.

2. You have a steady, long-term job If you have a secure job, you’re more likely to get approved for a mortgage with favorable terms. You’re also better off postponing any potential career changes until after you’ve bought your home.

3. You can get a decent mortgage Mortgage conditions depend on a variety of factors, including your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, job history and the current housing market. If you’re able to get a mortgage with a low interest rate, then you’re in a better position to buy a home.

Lastly, to find a home that meets your needs at a price you can afford, you should enlist the help of an experienced realtor. If you’re ready to buy your own house, make sure to hire an agent in your area.

May 2021 |

EVERYTHING HOME

|

17

E

XTERIOR SIDING:

how long do various types last?

S

iding protects your home from the elements but inevitably takes a beating in the process. Your choice of material, however, will determine how long this part of your house endures.

Vinyl typically lasts 20 to 40 years and is easy to maintain. The grade and thickness of the panels will impact their durability. If damaged, vinyl panels are easy to repair or replace.

Wood siding (usually cedar) can last anywhere from 15 to 40 years. It offers unrivaled beauty but also requires much more maintenance than other types of siding. The wood should be resealed every five years and inspected annually to stave off potential rot and pest infestations.

Aluminum has a lifespan of about 30

18

|

EVERYTHING HOME

|

May 2021

to 50 years. However, expect the paint to peel after about 15 years. Fortunately, aluminum siding can be repainted.

Though it’s possible for aluminum panels to be scratched, dented or pitted, they can usually be fixed or replaced Fiber cement planks have a lifespan of about 25 to 40 years. Their color may eventually fade but the planks can be repainted. Fiber cement can resemble wood but is resistant to termites and rot. This type of siding requires little maintenance.

Siding should always be replaced when it can no longer protect the internal structure of your home. However, it may deteriorate long before this and should be replaced once it becomes shabby, brittle or discolored.

MEDITERRANEAN HILLTOP ESTATE offers stunning views of Canadarago Lake.

Elegant beauty and timeless style come together in this one-of-a-kind 4,500 sq.ft. home with 4/5 BRS, 3 1/2 baths, 10’ ceilings, open floor plan, private sauna, warm oak & decadent walnut moldings and carvings. More than you could possibly imagine!!! $595,000 #130169

BEAUTIFUL VICTORIAN with carriage barn features natural woodwork, hardwood floors, high ceilings, pocket doors, stunning formal entry with grand staircase, stained glass windows, 5-6 bedrooms, 3 full baths, bluestone steps to wrap porch. Set up your private showing today!!! $299,900 #129561

CHARMING COTTAGE with Goodyear Lake access offers 3 BRS, eat-in kitchen with newer appliances, separate laundry room, lots of storage areas, enclosed front porch perfect for relaxing, large flat yard for outdoor activities, carport and 2 sheds. Great year round or vacation home. Hard to beat at $99,900 #129065

GREAT OPPORTUNITY to own a successful rental, perfect for students. Large 4-BR, 1 1/2-bath apartment PLUS spacious 1-BR apartment, laundry on site, separate utilities. Large lot with private parking, conveniently located between Hartwick College & SUNY to make walking a breeze. $180,000 #130085

3.78 ACRES in Cooperstown School District located on quiet town serviced road only 11 minutes from the heart of downtown. 283’ of road frontage, electric at road, surveyed and perked, driveway in place. Perfect for quiet getaway or investment property for summer rentals. $35,000 #127412

SPACIOUS DUPLEX is perfect for owner occupancy with rental income to off-set your expenses. Natural woodwork, hardwood floors, 3 BRs each unit, first-floor laundry, newer boiler, nice front yard, relaxing back porches, off-street parking, close to bus stop and elementary school. $139,900 #129902