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Real Estate & Home Services Guide
What ‘move-in ready’ really means Page 6
Money-saving tips for your home renovation projects Page 16 VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 4 | NOVEMBER 2020
Energize your home with orange Page 23
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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 LAYOUT Tracy Bender
Home makeover: 9 key steps for every renovation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 How to avoid buyer’s remorse.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 What ‘move-in ready’ really means. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 How sellers can add a contingency clause to a purchase agreement. . . . 7 5 signs it’s time to replace your windows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Why you should buy a hygrometer.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Comfort food: recipes for the winter months.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
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3 great reasons to get a stair runner.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Money-saving tips for your home renovation projects.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 2 key things to ask before knocking down a wall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 It’s getting hot in here!.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Why your agent won’t make offers for you. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 7 ways to make the most of your basement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Energize your home with orange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Home makeover:
9 key steps for every renovation
T
hough every home renovation is different, here’s an overview of the key steps these projects typically involve. 1. List all renovations. Prioritize repairs that are functional such as replacing faulty wiring or fixing the roof over those that are mostly cosmetic, like upgrading the kitchen. 2. Decide on a budget. You may decide to focus on some projects rather than others or to change some ideas based on your budget. 3. Hire professionals. For major overhauls, it’s a good idea to work with a designer, architect or general contractor who will manage the project for you. Alternatively, you can hire contractors as you need them and manage the work on your own. 4. Contact the city. Depending on where you live and the work you’re doing, you may need to obtain permits. 5. Call your insurer. In order for your home to remain insured, you’ll need to alert your provider before you start renovating. You’ll likely require additional protection for your home while it’s under construction. 6. Shop for materials. It’s best to have all of the supplies and materials you need on hand before starting your renovation project. 7. Create a timeline. Along with whoever is overseeing the project, plan how long each step of the renovation will take and the expected end date. 8. Keep things moving. During
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the renovation, touch base with your project manager regularly to make sure things are on track. 9. Inspect the finished work. Before making the final payment, make sure that all the work is completed to your satisfaction.
Afterward, remember to alert your insurance company of all changes that have been made to your home, as you may require more coverage or even get a discount, depending on the work completed.
How to avoid
BUYER’S REMORSE
If you want to buy a home, the fear of regretting your purchase could make it hard to commit to a particular property. Here are some tips for making a good decision and avoiding buyer’s remorse.
Check and double-check your needs list It’s important to have a clear idea of what you need and want out of a property before you start looking for a new home. When deciding whether to make an offer on a house, check that it meets all of your non-negotiable requirements and that it’s within your budget. Choosing a property that truly meets your needs will help you keep regrets at bay.
Did you know? A real estate attorney is an important professional to have in one’s corner when buying or selling a home. The legal resource Find Law says that buying and selling a home can be one of the most significant purchases made in a person’s lifes. Real estate law can be complicated, and all parties involved need to ensure they are protected as they complete transactions and negotiations. That is why it is essential to have a real estate attorney in one’s corner. A lawyer trained in real estate law will review contracts and other documents like title transfers and deeds. The attorney also handles the closing. Throughout the process, attorneys will provide legal guidance and explain terminology related to the transaction. In case of a dispute, the attorney will also provide legal representation in the courtroom, if needed, or negotiate a resolution on a client’s behalf. Even though a real estate attorney is another expense in the process of purchasing real estate, it is a worthwhile investment for the protection and peace of mind attorneys provide.
Take outside input with a grain of salt Sometimes avoiding regret means steeling yourself against external influences. Your friends and family probably mean well, but keep in mind that you’re the only one who really knows what you want out of a house.
Trust your real estate agent One source of advice you should listen to, however, is your realtor. While agents can’t find the right house for you on their own, they can provide you with all the information you need to make a sound choice. Finally, remember that there’s a difference between wondering if there’s a better house out there and having real concerns. If something about the transaction doesn’t sit well with you or a big issue is uncovered during the inspection, it’s all right to keep looking.
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What ‘move-in ready’ really means Are you wondering what “move-in ready” really means? Here’s what homebuyers and home sellers should know about this often-used term. The legal definition While the details depend on local laws and regulations, the term move-in ready generally indicates that the building meets all local legal requirements for living in. Thus, strictly speaking, a move-in ready home doesn’t need to be flawless. It only needs to be habitable.
What it means for buyers Many homebuyers mistakenly think that a house that’s marketed as move-in ready will be entirely furnished and updated, or at least not require any renovations. 6
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However, this isn’t always the case. Beyond the bare fact that it’s habitable, you shouldn’t expect anything from a home listed this way.
What it means for sellers While you may not need to extensively renovate your home, if you live in an up-and-coming area, it might be worthwhile to update your appliances and think about leaving some furniture behind. More and more millennials are entering the housing market, and many of them want to minimize the hassles that come with outfitting a new home, even if it means they need to pay a bit more to purchase it. In the end, the term move-in ready can mean different things to different people. However, both buyers and sellers will likely benefit from the help of a reliable realtor who can offer guidance and help manage expectations.
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f the sale of your home is contingent on you finding a new place to live, buyers may be dissuaded from making a bid. However, this clause doesn’t have to be a hindrance. Here’s how to best include this type of contingency in a purchase agreement.
Make it clear Ensure that the contingency clause is as clear as possible. One of the main concerns buyers have with regards to these clauses is that they’re vague. Understanding the specific circumstances in which a seller may back out is likely to reassure buyers, as they’ll know what they’re signing up for.
Specify time frames Provide a clear time frame
How sellers can add a contingency clause to a purchase agreement
within which you’ll find your new home. Then, determine how this contingency relates to other contingencies in the contract, such as those buyers generally include for things like home inspections. Typically, the contingency of the seller finding a new home will take precedence on the buyer’s contingencies. In particular, if the buyer has asked for an appraisal or inspection and has specified a time frame within which to complete these, the countdown on finishing them won’t begin until after the seller has found a new property. Finally, be clear about the seller’s right to extend the closing date should they fail to find a new home within the time originally specified.
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5 signs
it’s time to replace your windows Do your windows need to be replaced? Here are five signs that indicate it’s time for an upgrade. 1. There’s a noticeable draft. Even on cold, windy days, you shouldn’t feel any air coming in through your windows. 2. There’s lots of outside noise. If you can hear each car that drives by and every child playing in the street, your windows probably need to be updated. 3. The frames leak or are damaged. Chipped or soft wood around your windows is an indicator of irreversible water damage. 4. They’re difficult to open or close. Windows should be simple to open and close and they should lock easily and securely. 5. There’s condensation. Condensation between windowpanes suggests there’s a broken seal. If the seal is broken, any gas that provided insulation is gone. If you notice one or more of these signs it’s time to invest in new windows for your home.
Although homeowners can typically get many years out of their homes’ windows, ultimately windows will need to be replaced. Homes that are more than 20 years old and still have their original windows could be due for an upgrade. 8
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Why you should buy a
hygrometer
The humidity level in your house can have a significant effect on your well-being. If there isn’t enough moisture in the air, you may develop dry skin, a scratchy throat and chronic nose bleeds. Excess moisture is also problematic as it can lead to water damage and mold growth. While condensation on the windows and other issues can be signs that the humidity level in your home is less than ideal, the most reliable way to assess the amount of moisture in the air is to use a hygrometer.
How it works A hygrometer is an affordable, user-friendly instrument that measures relative humidity, which is the amount of water vapor in the air expressed as a percentage. Since this device is hand-held, you can
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easily monitor the humidity level in each room of your home. Ideally, the humidity level throughout your home should be between 30 and 50 percent. To avoid inaccurate results, don’t use the hygrometer near a heat source. If the humidity level in one or several rooms isn’t optimal, here are a few ways to add or remove moisture from the air: • Install a humidifier or dehumidifier • Ensure your windows and doors are well-sealed • Install ceiling exhaust fans • Open a window • Avoid air-drying laundry indoors To purchase a hygrometer, simply visit any hardware or big-box store in your area.
Creamy corn chowder This hearty corn chowder is the perfect meal for a cold, wintery night. Indeed, it’s a recipe you’re sure to come back to again and again. Start to finish: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 Ingredients • 6 slices bacon, chopped • 1 leek (the white part only), finely chopped • 1 large potato, diced • 20 ounces corn kernels (fresh, frozen or canned) • 13.5 ounces creamed corn • 1-1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth • 1 cup milk • 1/2 cup (15%) cream • 1 sprig fresh rosemary • 1 bay leaf • Salt and pepper to taste • 4 chives, chopped Directions 1. In a large pot, cook the bacon. When it’s almost done, add the leek. Continue to cook until the bacon is crispy and the leek is translucent. Drain the bacon grease. 2. Add the potato, corn, broth, milk, cream, rosemary and bay leaf and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 25 minutes or until the potato is soft. 3. Salt and pepper to taste. 4. Garnish with the chives, then serve and enjoy. 12
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Vegetarian shepherd’s pie Say hello to a new family favorite. This classic dish with a twist is so tasty, you may want a second serving. Start to finish: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6 Ingredients • 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes, cut into big chunks • 1/4 cup milk • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 large onion, finely chopped • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped • 1 carrot, diced • 1 celery stalk, diced • 1 cup button mushrooms, sliced • 1 19-ounce can lentils, drained and rinsed • 1 teaspoon dried thyme • Salt and pepper to taste
Slow-cooked chili con carne There’s nothing better than a meal made in the slow cooker, especially when it’s this chili con carne.
RECIPES for the winter months
You can make individual portions by building the shepherd’s pie in several ramekins.
Start to finish: 8 hours and 15 minutes (15 minutes active) | Servings: 10 Ingredients • 1 pound ground beef • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 large onion, diced • 1 celery stalk, diced • 1 carrot, diced • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 2 tablespoons chili seasoning • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 1/4 cup ketchup • 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes • 1 18-ounce can kidney beans, rinsed and drained • 1 red pepper, diced • 1/4 cup brown sugar • 1/4 cup beef broth • Salt and pepper • 1 cup sour cream • 2 green onions, sliced Directions 1. In a large pan over high heat, warm 1
tablespoon of the olive oil and brown the beef in it. Transfer the meat to the slow cooker. 2. In the same pan, heat the remaining olive oil and cook the onion, celery and carrot. When it’s almost done, add the garlic, chili seasoning, cumin and dried oregano. Cook for 2 or 3 minutes or until fragrant. 3. Add the ketchup, diced tomatoes, beans, red pepper, brown sugar and beef broth and cook until hot. Salt and pepper to taste. 4. Pour over the beef in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. 5. Taste and adjust the flavor by adding more chili seasoning, salt and pepper, if necessary. 6. Serve topped with a dollop of sour cream and some of the sliced green onion.
Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F. 2. Cook sweet potatoes in boiling water until tender. Drain the water, add the milk and butter and mash until smooth. Salt and pepper to taste and set aside. 3. Heat the oil in a large pan, and sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, celery and mushrooms for about five minutes or until soft. Add the lentils and thyme. Mix well and transfer to an 8 x 11 inch baking dish. Cover with the sweet potato puree. 4. Cook for about 30 minutes and serve. November 2020
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3 great reasons to get a stair runner Installing a stair runner can be a great way to showcase a beautiful staircase. Here are three other benefits they provide. 1. More traction. If you have kids or pets, you may worry about them safely climbing up and down the stairs. A stair runner provides extra grip, minimizing the chances of slips and falls. 2. Less noise. Does someone in your home barrel up and down the stairs, making lots of noise? If you’re tired of the continuous stomping, a stair runner will muffle the sounds of feet on the stairs. 3. Better protection. A beautiful wood staircase must be treated carefully in order to stay in good shape. Unfortunately, it’s a part of the house that naturally takes a beating. Fortunately, stair runners will help prevent them from getting scuffed or scratched. Stair runners can be a beautiful addition to your home’s overall design, but if they’re installed incorrectly, they can be a safety hazard. Be sure to get yours laid down by a professional to ensure that it doesn’t cause an accident.
Money-saving tips for your home renovation projects
I
t’s no secret that renovating can be expensive. Here are some simple ways to save.
Plan carefully
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who quotes a cheaper price than everyone else may not be reliable.
Do some of the work yourself
It’s best to have a detailed plan before you renovate. This will help you see where you can cut expenses, allow you to stay on budget and ensure that the work gets done quickly and efficiently.
What you can contribute to the project will depend on your abilities. Some may be comfortable tiling a backsplash or painting walls themselves. Others might prefer to simply clean up after. Every bit helps to keep costs down.
Choose the right contractor
Give old items a second life
Hire people that come with the best recommendations and who provide you with a detailed estimate, even if they charge more than some competitors. A contractor
You can save money by reusing and repurposing materials you already have at home and buying some items second hand. In addition, hardware stores now offer
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recycled paint, which is cheaper and more environmentally friendly than new paint.
Sell old materials In addition, be sure to recoup some of your losses by selling old materials. Recycling centers often pay for copper and other scrap metal, and other items can be sold at yard sales or online. Finally, make sure any contractors you hire are fully certified and insured. Otherwise, you’ll be liable for any accidents and damages that occur during the renovations, which is likely to wreck your budget.
2 key things to ask A
before knocking down a wall
re you considering knocking down a wall? Whether it’s to modernize your home’s layout or create more space, this isn’t a renovation to be taken lightly. Here are some things to consider before hiring a contractor to demolish a wall. 1. Is the wall load-bearing? Demolishing a wall that’s a structural part of your home could be disastrous. While it’s possible to replace these walls with a beam or column, you’ll need to consult an engineer.
2. What’s behind the wall? Even if the wall isn’t load-bearing, there may be components lurking behind the drywall that you can’t see. Pipes, wiring and HVAC systems may need to be moved before the wall can be taken down. The most important thing to keep in mind if you plan to knock down a wall is that it’s not a job you should attempt on your own. Always hire a professional when making structural changes to your home.
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What’s the best backup heater for your home? An alternative heat source is a worthwhile investment. To help you choose the best one for your home, here’s a look at your main options.
Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces While a wood-burning stove is a more effective heater than a fireplace, both these options create a cozy atmosphere with their crackling flames and smoky aroma. Keep in mind, however, that you need sufficient space to store the wood, and the fire must be periodically stoked.
Natural gas or propane stoves and fireplaces Since these options don’t require a chimney, they can be installed almost anywhere in your home. Plus, they’re easy to use and can heat a room much faster than their wood-burning counterparts. However, they require professional installation and, if you opt for propane, you’ll need to rent or purchase a tank.
Electric fireplaces These appliances are simple to install and safer to use than fuel-burning devices. Electric fireplaces are particularly useful for heating small rooms. Alternatively, they can operate without emitting heat so you can enjoy the ambiance of a fire year-round.
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Wood pellet stoves This energy-efficient device can run for up to 20 hours before it needs to be restocked. Plus, the pellets are sold in bags and much easier to store than wood logs. Keep in mind, however, that all models require regular maintenance and some can be noisy.
Oil-filled space heaters Even after they stop drawing power, these heaters continue to radiate heat for quite some time, which helps make them energy efficient. However, they’re not recommended for families with small children because their exterior gets very hot.
Portable electric heaters This is the safest type of backup heater and the easiest to use as it only needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet. They can be easily moved around the house to supplement your central heating system. However, they’ll be useless in the event of a power outage. Once you find a backup heater that meets your needs, make sure it’s installed correctly and used according to the manufacturer’s directions to prevent a fire.
Why your agent won’t make offers for you
R
eal estate agents provide homebuyers with insider information, advice about the local market and much more. However, they won’t tell you how much to offer for a specific property. Though they may suggest a range, making the bid is your responsibility. Here’s why.
1. The offer may be too low A lowball offer can dissuade a seller. If an agent encourages a buyer to make a bid that’s judged to be too low, the realtor is likely to be blamed for any consequences.
2. The offer may be too high If an agent tells their client to make an offer for a specific amount and the bid is accepted immediately, the client may feel like they offered too much. This can lead them to wonder whether the agent really had their 20
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best interest at heart.
3. The agent isn’t buying the house It’s important to keep in mind that while realtors can provide valuable advice about the local market, they can’t tell you how to plan your finances for years to come. You’re buying the home and you’ll be paying the mortgage on it. This is why only you can decide how much to offer for a house. The bottom line is that real estate agents have a mandate to act in your best interest. Telling you how much to offer for a home could actively work against this duty, and realtors have faced legal action in the past for doing so. For these reasons, bidding on a home is solely the buyer’s responsibility.
Making the bid on a desired property is ultimately the responsiblity of the buyer.
7 ways to make the most of your basement A re you thinking about finishing your basement? While this can be an expensive project, you’ll increase both your living space and property value. Plus, you can easily adapt this versatile space to suit your family’s needs over time. Here are seven types of basement conversions.
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1. Workshop. Whether you enjoy sewing, woodworking, scrapbooking or wine making, you’ll have the space you need to store all your supplies and tools.
5. Personal gym. For this to be a practical option, the ceiling should be high enough to accommodate stretching and jumping jacks.
2. Home office. You’ll probably find it easier to concentrate in a room that’s cut off from the rest of the house. Plus, you’re less likely to be disturbed during conference calls.
6. Playroom. Give your kids plenty of space to run around and store their toys without cluttering the main living areas of the house.
3. Guest bedroom. This is an ideal way to offer your visitors more privacy. And if there’s enough room to fit in a bathroom, all the better.
7. Laundry room. In addition to freeing up space in the bathroom, you’ll finally have the room you need to fold and iron clothes.
4. Cellar. Whether you want to store wine, root vegetables or canned goods, make sure the space is well ventilated and the humidity level is controlled.
Keep in mind that natural light is limited in a basement. Therefore, you’ll want to opt for an open-concept design or glass doors and partitions if possible.
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Energize your home with
ORANGE F
rom the soft hues of a sunset to the bright shades of the citrus fruit that bears its name, orange is a playful color that can add warmth and energy to a room. Here’s some advice on how to incorporate it into your decor.
Find the right pairing Combine orange with blues and greens to give the room a lively tropical vibe. Alternatively, a pastel orange paired with taupe or ecru will provide a calming effect. If you prefer a more monochrome design, blend beiges and browns with subtle orange hues like pumpkin spice. While you might be tempted to tone down orange with a neutral palette, don’t be afraid to show off your personality with bold choices. Pair it with violet and magenta to create a space reminiscent of India. Alternatively, use it alongside yellow, fuchsia, turquoise and
chartreuse as one of several accent colors in a white room.
Opt for accent pieces In general, orange is a color best used sparingly. If you want to test out this bold shade, decorate a
space with eye-catching orange vases, lamps, pillows, rugs or curtains. If you want to make a statement, opt for an orange sofa, painted lower cabinets or a wallpapered accent wall.
Use it to brighten up the room Orange adds a dynamic, contemporary flair without being as aggressive as red. In fact, this color is particularly popular in front entrances and gathering places like the living room. You can also use orange to perk up a windowless room or dark space. Simply pair it with white or light wood furniture to maximize its ability to brighten. To find the perfect orange accents for your home, scout your local shops, farmers markets and antique stores. And if you’re not sure you can pull off orange on your own, consider hiring an interior decorator to help. November 2020
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