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Buying a house with family or friends Page 6
Protect your home with a state-of-the-art alarm system Page 12 VOLUME 1 | ISSUE 8 | AUGUST 2018
Rooms can serve double duty Page 17
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
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Tips for designing the perfect home gym........................... 4
Protect your home with a state-of-the-art alarm system.......... 12
The wide world of real estate specialties. . .......................... 5
How to choose the right paintbrush................................ 14
Buying a house with family or friends............................... 6
Keep your shower curtain in prime condition...................... 15
Co-ops vs. condos: what’s the difference?........................... 7
How to get your child ready for a new school...................... 16
How to employ staging to impress buyers.. ......................... 8
Rooms can serve double duty...................................... 17
What to consider before making an offer on a home. . ............. 10
How to re-caulk your bathtub in five simple steps................. 18
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August 2018
Did you know
?
Outdoor remodels and landscaping projects can add valuable curb appeal to homes. The National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Landscape Professionals agree that certain projects offer significant returns when selling a home. The NAR says these are the 10 most appealing outdoor features to buyers.
• Standard lawn care • Overall landscape upgrade
• New patio • New wood deck
• Softscaping • Sod lawn
• Seed lawn • Outdoor firepit
• Outdoor fireplace • New pool
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August 2018 | 3
TIPS FOR
designing THE PERFECT
home gym
D
o you feel like having a space where you can exercise (without judgment!) in the comfort of your own home? Here are a few tips to help you design the perfect home gym. First, whether you choose to use your garage or your basement, make sure that you set up your personal gym in a brightly lit and well-ventilated area. In order to maximize the square footage available and create a space that’s conducive to exercise, divide the room into different sections. For example, you could dedicate
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one area to cardio, another to strength training and yet another to stretching. In terms of equipment, always keep your budget in mind and evaluate your needs accordingly before making purchases you may regret. You can surely find a multi-purpose, high-performance exercise machine at a specialty retailer in your area that won’t break the bank! Furthermore, stocking up on basic equipment, such as free weights, elastic bands, an exercise ball and a yoga mat, is always a great way to start.
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Stay motivated! Design a space that’s visually appealing and that you wouldn’t mind spending a few hours each week in by painting the room your favorite color or hanging some inspiring art on the walls. You could also put up a chalkboard (or bulletin board) to track your progress on. Finally, consider investing in a good sound system that will encourage you to keep moving to the beat of your favorite tunes.
The wide world of REAL ESTATE SPECIALTIES Let’s take a look at some of the different fields real estate professionals might specialize in: • Residential real estate: residential real estate agents specialize in finding homes for individuals and families to live in. Sub-specialties include heritage properties, fixer-uppers, overseas relocations, etc. • Commercial real estate: these agents specialize in finding the perfect building for commercial and industrial use. Sub-specialties include corporate
relocations, medical real estate, retail space, etc. • Agricultural and land real estate: some real estate professionals specialize in selling and finding property for land expansion or farming. • Real estate appraisal: these agents specialize in determining the value of a given property. While they’re a bit different from real estate agents, they play an important part in the overall process of buying or selling a piece of property.
Look for a specialized real estate professional to assist you with your specific needs.
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August 2018 | 5
Y
Buying a house with family or friends
ou don’t need to be married in order to buy a house with another person. In this age of rising house prices and stagnant salaries, the only way some people could ever hope to own a home is to pool their resources with family or friends and pay off a mortgage together. But you need to be careful. Entering into a mortgage loan with one or more friends or family members is a long-term and risky enterprise. You need to make sure you pick the right people before you ever apply for a loan.
How does it work? There are various types of partnerships when it comes to buying a house, but in all cases, everyone whose name is on the mortgage loan is liable 6
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August 2018
for its entire sum. Let’s say, for example, that you buy house with two other people and each agrees to pay one-third of the mortgage. Should one person default on their portion, the other two are still required to pay the full amount. That’s why it’s important to choose people who are financially responsible, or it could get messy fast.
Should I have an escape plan? Many people who enter into these types of mortgages have legal documents drawn up that outline what should happen in the event of various contingencies. Ask your real estate professional and legal team what the best course of action would be for your circumstances.
Co-ops vs. condos: what’s the difference?
S
o, you want to buy your first piece of property and don’t know where to start? When it comes to shopping for real estate, there are so many different avenues to go down that it can be overwhelming at times, especially for first-time buyers. If you’d like to stop renting but don’t want all the responsibilities and costs associated with buying a detached single-family house, consider looking into condos and housing cooperatives. Here are some differences between these two types of real estate.
Condominiums The idea behind condos is fairly straightforward: residents own their individual units and share the costs of common amenities. They have similar rights and responsibilities as conventional homeowners. Condo fees are typically required from all residents of the building to pay for maintenance (land-
scaping, snow clearance) and shared facilities (pools, gyms). Condo associations can have more or less extensive rules governing the specific use of each unit. These rules are generally voted in by a majority of residents.
Cooperatives Housing cooperatives can be organized in different ways, but the general idea remains the same: the building is owned by, and managed as, a corporation. In order to be granted the privilege of living in one of the units, you have to purchase a share of the corporation. You’re not actually buying any real property; your share simply allows you to live in one of the units. Co-op boards can be extremely rigorous in how they vet their potential tenants. It isn’t rare for applicants to be subjected to several rounds of interviews before a decision is made.
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How to employ staging to impress buyers Homeowners must consider a variety of factors when putting their homes on the market. One of the more important things to remember is the benefits of making a strong first impression on prospective buyers. That’s why many homeowners rely on staging when selling their homes. Staging requires more than just clearing out clutter or baking a batch of cookies to create a welcoming aroma. Staging helps potential buyers visualize the potential of a home and see them-
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selves owning and living in the property. While homeowners can effectively stage their own homes, sometimes it is well worth the investment to call in a professional designer or stager. Stagers often work their magic on vacant properties or those that have been sitting on the market awhile. A stager conducts careful research into the market of a particular area and learns about the neighborhood before deciding how to appeal to likely buyers. For example, when staging a coastal
August 2018
home, a stager may go with nautical themes and create the impression of a relaxing and laid-back property for entertaining by the beach. Certain rules should be followed when staging a home. Furniture, decor and other amenities in the home should not detract from the house itself. Instead, such items should complement the architecture and feel of the space. Here are some additional staging suggestions. • Remove personal effects. Homeowners are urged to replace personal photographs with neutral artwork and remove other decorative items that reflect their personalities. As an example, an avid outdoorsman probably will want to remove hunting trophies. The goal is to
help buyers see themselves in the home, and that can be difficult if existing residents’ personal effects are everywhere. • Put away nonessential items. Staging helps
homeowners create dream spaces. Coffeemakers, backpacks hanging on the wall and dishes in the drainboard may be part of daily living, but they can make it hard for buyers
to see a home’s potential. Store such items before holding an open house. • Maximize lighting. Whenever possible, take down or open window treatments to display architectural moldings and let in as much natural light as possible. • Opt for neutral colors and furnishings. Use neutral taupe and gray paint to keep homes prime for buyers. Homeowners who have more eclectic or colorful tastes can put their items in storage and rent neutral furnishings until the home sells. Staging can improve the chances that a house sells quickly. Staging helps potential buyers see themselves in the space without distractions from the previous owners’ decorating or belongings.
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What to consider before making an offer on a home Ready to make an offer on a new home? Are you sure? Carefully consider the following before you make it official. • Research the area: take a look at crime stats, school districts, retail and entertainment opportunities, etc.
• Research the house: find out why the owner is selling, how much the seller paid for it (if you can), and a bit about the house’s history. • Have it inspected: make sure you know exactly how much work needs to be done before you buy.
For Service Call...
P.O. Box 96 Gilbertsville, NY 13776
607-783-2289 www.gilbertph.com
• New Gas, Oil & Electric • Water Heater Installation Heating System Installation & Service
• Septic System Installation & Repairs
• Heating System Repairs & Cleanings
• AC Installation & Repairs
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• Service Contracts Available • Kitchen & Bath Renovations • All Aspects of Plumbing
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August 2018
• Interview the neighbors: get to know the people you’ll have to live next to a bit before you decide to buy. • Check utility costs: find out how much you’ll be paying for utilities to get a better idea of the property’s true cost.
Protect your home with a
state-of-the-art alarm system
W
hen it comes to the safety of your home, its contents and, most importantly, its occupants, you want the best protection you can get. Equipping your dwelling with a state-of-the-art alarm system is always a smart investment.
Multiple benefits Why should you have a home alarm system installed? For
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August 2018
peace of mind. In addition to protecting your house from intruders — a sign indicating the presence of a security system is by itself a powerful deterrent — you’ll be minimizing the safety threat posed by fire, carbon monoxide leaks and water infiltration. What’s more, having a home security system in place should allow you to save on insurance.
Flexible functionality Today’s alarm systems perform a wide range of functions, which can often be expanded according to the type of protection you need. These may include: • Open window and door detection • Motion detection • Broken glass detection • Gas or water leak detection • Health emergency panic button Security systems can be either wired or wireless. The latter option is easier to install (no need to drill any holes in your walls), and you can take it with you when you move. Wireless systems may also alert you via email or text in the event that something unusual is detected. Finally, you can program your security system to either automatically alert emergency services in certain situations, or call you first to confirm and avoid false alarms.
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How to choose the right
paintbrush
Do you have a painting project in mind? Before you get started, make sure you have the right paintbrush for the job. Here’s what to consider.
1. The bristles
2. The shape
3. The size
Paintbrushes can have either synthetic or natural bristles. The latter are especially resistant to solvents and are thus the better choice for applying oil-based or alkyd paint. If you plan on using water-based paint—acrylic or latex, for example—opt for a brush with synthetic bristles, which won’t expand when wet, to ensure an even application. Synthetic bristles are more durable and easier to clean than natural ones.
Paintbrushes come in different shapes, such as flat, angled and tapered. To make the right choice, consider the task at hand. For trim and other types of precision work, opt for an angled paintbrush designed for tracing fine lines. To cover larger surfaces, go with a flat-tipped brush, and use a paintbrush with tapered bristles to paint uneven surfaces (pipes, furniture, grills, etc.).
As a general rule, the bigger the surface you intend to paint, the bigger your paintbrush should be. Choose a brush that’s at least 4 inches wide for painting walls, floors and ceilings. To paint doors, cabinets and wide moldings, use a brush that’s around 3 inches wide. Finally, brushes that are 2 inches wide or less are perfect for trim and smaller moldings.
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August 2018
Keep your shower curtain in prime condition
H
ave you ever had to throw away a shower curtain because it was tainted with dirt, soap scum or mold? Cleaning your shower curtain regularly is a foolproof way to prevent this from happening again. Here’s some advice to help you preserve the look of your curtain and keep it out of the trash. First, make sure to thoroughly clean it once or twice a month. If it’s made of fabric, throw it in the wash and use your usual laundry soap. If it’s made of plastic, however, place it in the tub and wash it with a cloth soaked in white vinegar and baking soda. Rinse it well and hang to dry. Ideally, you should wipe down your shower curtain with a wet cloth every time you wash up. Make sure to air out the bathroom after every shower, and keep your curtain closed to allow it to dry quicker and prevent mold.
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How to get your child ready for a new school
N
o matter how old your kids are, switching schools is always a challenge. As a parent, your role is to guide and reassure your children as they adapt to their new environment. Here are a few tips that will help you achieve a smooth transition.
Elementary and middle school Don’t wait until the last minute to let your children know they’ll be changing schools. After giving them the news, answer all of their questions and listen to them with empathy, especially if they are sad, disappointed, angry or worried. Before the start of the school year, take your kids to their new school and walk around the neighborhood with them. In short, help them get acquainted with their new environment. If your kids will be leaving all their friends behind, try to get them in touch with other people their age who will be attending the same school as them. For example, you could go to a park near the new school a few times over the summer.
High school Is your teen reluctant to change schools? It’s normal. If they’re closed off to the idea of going to a new school, stay calm and remember that this behavior is probably only a reflection of their insecurity. Help your child keep an open mind by discussing the possibilities that their new school might provide, such as extracurricular activities, student radio opportunities, cutting-edge tech equipment, a big library, etc. Stay positive and show your enthusiasm about the change. Most of all, don’t judge your teen’s reactions. That way, they’ll know they can count on you, which is very reassuring!
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August 2018
A trundle sofa bed enables overnight guests to sleep comfortably right in the living room or den.
Rooms can serve double duty
M
any homes do not have space for guest rooms, kids’ play areas and home theater lounges that are possible in homes with substantial square footage. But they may not be missing out at all. While large homes remain popular, many people are embracing the benefits of smaller residences. Small homes help homeowners save money, require less maintenance, have smaller environmental impact, and reduce the temptation to accumulate “stuff.” Owners of small homes or apartments can still enjoy the benefits of larger spaces, they just need to equip rooms to perform double duty.
must-have items – from video gaming systems to other electronics – grows along with them. Storage can make a room functional for both adults and children. Devote an entire wall to a closet or drawer system where toys can be stored out of sight when necessary. Storage ottomans can be used for extra seating while also providing somewhere for homeowners to stash stuffed animals or games for easy access. When choosing furniture, look for fabrics that are resistant to stains and modular pieces that can be moved around as necessary to create room for playing or entertaining.
Living room/guest room
In 2015, 24 percent of employed people in the United States did some or all of their work at home, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Bringing work home means men and women will need a space to work. In tight quarters, bedrooms may be the only available area. An armoire-style desk will blend in with the decor and can hide paperwork and electronics behind doors. Otherwise, a makeup vanity can serve the dual purpose of providing a place to get ready for a night out and a ready space to house a laptop during the day. In smaller homes, homeowners may be forced to turn rooms into dual purpose areas.
Entertaining guests is easier when there’s a dedicated space where visitors can feel at home. When furnishing a living room, keep the guest room in mind. A sofa that opens up to a bed or a convertible sectional can be a comfortable place for guests to lay their heads. Side tables provide guests with places to store their belongings, and an empty storage chest can house bed linens or guests’ clothing.
Den/playroom Children tend to accumulate toys and games. And as kids grow from children to young adults, their list of
Bedroom/home office
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How to re-caulk your bathtub in five simple steps
I
s the caulk around your bathtub crumbling or showing signs of unsightly mold? If so, it’s time to re-caulk! While it’s always recommended to entrust any plumbing work to a professional, repairing the caulk around your tub is a relatively simple task that you can easily do yourself. Just follow these five foolproof steps.
1. Remove worn-out caulk With the help of a utility knife, make an incision in the middle of the damaged caulk to make it easier to remove. Next, use a scraper or flat-head screwdriver to scrape the 18
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remaining sealant free, if necessary.
2. Clean the surface Wash the area you just finished scraping with a sponge soaked in white vinegar. Make sure to remove all traces of dirt and mold, and then use a cloth or rag to wipe down the surface. This last step is particularly important to ensure the new caulk adheres properly.
3. Get your duct tape handy Border off the area where you’ll apply the new caulk with duct tape, much like when you trim a room for painting. It might take a few extra August 2018
minutes, but the final result will be much cleaner.
4. Apply the new caulk Apply the caulk with a caulking gun, ideally in a single stroke while maintaining constant pressure. Next, dip your thumb in soapy water and go over the new caulk to make it nice and watertight.
5. Remove the duct tape Wait at least 24 hours before removing the duct tape and taking a bath. If the caulk overflowed, carefully cut away the excess with a utility knife.
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