62002 29 1 birmingham ebook

Greater Birmingham HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE SO YOU BOUGHT A .

ER FIXER UPP ?

T NOW WHA See insid!e for tips

REMODELING?

FIVE PROJECTS TO KICK OFF 2016

FEATURED HOME IN

PELHAM

LUXURIOUS FAMILY LIVING IN A CITY NAMED “The Best Place to Raise Kids” in Alabama

RE/MAX FIRST CHOICE Realtor: Francene Drexler Phone #: 205-965-2065 Realtor: Annette Durrett Phone #: 205-243-9970

REALESTATEBOOK.COM - REQUEST FREE MAGAZINES ONLINE, OR CALL 800-841-3401

January Cover 2016 Birmingham.indd 1 62002.29.1.001.Cover.indd 1

1/13/16 10:15 9:20 AM 1/13/16 AM

In Partnership with

IDE L HOME 2016

Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders

&

April 23-24 & April 30 - May 1 Visit birminghambuilder.com for more info!

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1/12/16 12:49 PM

Kathy Dailey 20 5 -33 7-7 0 3 1

First Choice

www.kathydailey.com

ONE OWNER BEAUTY IN ALABASTER!

BEAUTIFUL BUNGALOW IN CALERA!

4BR/3BA, large corner lot, fenced back yard, and neutral colors. Close to I-65 and shopping. Come see today!

Offered at $222,500.

Text P329908 to 85377

3 Bedrooms/2 Baths, open floor plan, freshly painted, split Bedroom plan.

Only $109,900.

Text P656444 to 85377

VESTAVIA

Calera

Rare opportunity to find a home on Altadena Lake. Split foyer with 3 brs two baths up and 1 bedroom down. Three baths, open floor plan and 3 fireplaces, one in Great Room one in downstairs den and one in downstairs bedroom. $309,900 Text P755652 to 85377

Beautiful home in well established neighborhood.

Too many features to list. This home is a must see! $174,900 Text P755648 to 85377

THE GARRETT PLAN

SILVER LAKES IN HELENA

Lot 424 on the Lake - $372,900 Lot 428 on the Lake - $389,900 1.5 Story over full unfinished BSMT w/3 Car Garage Designed by Paul Gilbert Distinctive Designs Text P841395 to 85377

4 bedrooms, 2 baths, full brick beauty.

Incredible, incredible HOME! Offered at $269,900.

Text P656444 to 85377

ALABASTER Awesome 2BR 1BA home has incredible charm! New flooring & Kitchen cabinets. Convenient to shopping, Shelby Hospital, & I-65.

Priced to sell! $65,900 Text T166409 to 85377

Helena Gorgeous 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home.

Come take a look before it’s gone!

Riverwoods Incredible Floor Plan Text P755649 to 85377

PICK YOUR PLAN!

For more information contact: Kathy Dailey 337-7031 • Francene Drexler 965-2065 • Ginny Willis 585-3184 RE/MAX First Choice 205-663-4402

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1/12/16 5:44 PM

KLASSEY REALTY Kathy Leatherwood Broker (205)999-1843 LeatheKa@AOL.com

P755626

MITZ THOMAS

Realtor

Realtor

(205)475-0081

(205)534-3405

P755627 MILLION DOLLAR LAKES 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath, Nice Eat-In Kitchen, Formal Dining Room, Great Room with Fireplace/ Gas Logs,Trey Ceilings in Master & Dining Room,Hardwood Floors,Tile in Kitchen & Bathrooms,Carpet in Bedrooms, FINISHED BASEMENT WITH OFFICE. $220,000

P755628 CORNER LOT LARGE TRIPLEWIDE HOME. Large Great Room w/Fireplace, Large Kichen, Dining Area in Kitchen,All Appliances, Split Bedrooms, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath, Laundry Room.Open Front Deck, Large back deck w/Pool, Fenced yard, 1 Acre Lot. $119,900

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Florence Street Full Brick Great starter home-3 Bedrooms, full Bath, Half Bath, Open Kitchen, Dining Room,Great Room.Hardwood Floors,Large Level Lot,1-Car carport.

Metal Roof. SECURITY SYSTEM. MOVE IN READY. $89,900

ED VINING

P755629

LARGE HOME ON 10 ACRES 4/5 BRICK- BEDROOMS OR BONUS ROOM, EAT IN KITCHEN w/BAR,FORMAL DINGROOM,,DEN, GREAT ROOM w/FIRPLACE.FINISHED BASEMENT 2 BEDROOM,BATH,DEN/BONUS ROOM. MASTER BEDROOM WITH SITTING AREA. $284,900

P755631 GREAT LOCATION ONE LEVEL HOME WITH 2 BEDROOM,2 BATH,EAT IN KITCHEN,GREATROOM WITH FIREPLACE/GAS,FENCED LARGE BACKYARD,NEW CARPET,HARDWOOD,TILE FLOORS. MOVE IN READY. $116,500

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MILLION DOLLAR LAKES 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath,Eat-In Kitchen,New Appliances, GREAT ROOM, NEW FLOORING, LONG COUNTRY PORCH.NICE CORNER LOT FINISHED BASEMENT WITH OFFICE $119,000

P755630

P755632 GREAT LOCATION NEAR MERCEDES-ONE LEVEL-3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATH,GREAT ROOM w/FIREPLACE/GAS LOGS,EAT IN KITCHEN w/BAR,OPEN DINING ROOM.2-CAR GARAGE w/LAUNDRY. NEW HARDWOOD FLOORS AND TILE. GREAT STARTER HOME. $127,000

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P755633 CORNER LOT 3 BEDROOM,2 BATH,GREAT ROOM WITH FIREPLACE,OPEN DINGING ROOM,KITCHEN WITH LARGE BREAKFAST BAR,LOTS OF CABINETS.LAUNDRYROOM. NEAR INTERSTATE AND MERCEDES $127,900

P755634 GREENPOND 3 BEDROOM,2 BATH,GREAT ROOM WITH WOOD BURNING FIREPLACE, EAT IN KITCHEN, FORMAL DINING ROOM,BASEMENT FINISHED WITH OFFICE/BEDROOM/BONUS ROOM,2-CAR GARAGE. FENCE YARD,STORAGE BUILDING,LEVEL LOT. $139,900

1/13/16 12:24 PM

KLASSEY REALTY Kathy Leatherwood Broker (205)999-1843 LeatheKa@AOL.com

P755635 LARGE HOME ON 2 ACS M/L. VIEW OF THE LAKE AND LARGE TENNIS COURT. IN GROUND POOL,FENCED YARD, FULL BRICK-3 BEDROOM, 2 JACK AND JILL BATHS, 1/2 BATH IN LAUNDRY ROOM,LARGE EAT IN KICTHEN. 1-CAR GARAGE w/2-CAR GARAGE ON MAIN LEVEL. $199,000

P755638 WEST BLOCTON 3 BEDROOM,2 BATH,GREAT ROOM, LARGE EAT IN KITCHEN WITH BAR. WRAP AROUND SUN PORCH ON FRONT.LARGE DETACHED GARAGE WITH LOTS OF STORAGE OR TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS AT HOME. $45,000

P755641 LAND LOTS BROOKE DR 14 ACS M/L $58,800 LOT CANDICE LANE $8,000 LOT SHADY CT. $6,600 EASTERN VALLEY RD 9 ACS CLEARED $64,000 450 GEORGIA LOOP 1 AC M/L WITH SEPTIC, POWER $19,900 LOT TEDDY DR NO PUBLIC WATER $8,000 20580 SANDY DR. LOT SET UP FOR MOBILE HOME/HOME $25,000 1 AC M/L MCCALLA RD- $20,000 RIVERBEND 16 ACS M/L/ $96,000

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ED VINING

MITZ THOMAS

Realtor

Realtor

(205)475-0081

(205)534-3405

P755636 GREENPOND 3 BEDROOM,2 BATH,GREAT ROOM WITH WOOD BURNING FIREPLACE, EAT IN KITCHEN, FORMAL DINING ROOM,BASEMENT FINISHED WITH OFFICE/BEDROOM/BONUS ROOM,2-CAR GARAGE. FENCE YARD,STORAGE BUILDING,LEVEL LOT. $139,900

P755639 ON 2 ACS OF LAND 2000 16X72 SINGLEWIDE SKYLAND ON 2 ACS OF LAND-3 BEDROOMS,2 BATH,OPEN GREAT ROOM, SPLIT BEDROOMS, LAUNDRY ROOM, NEW CARPET,PAINT. $55,500

P755642 COUNTRY LIVING 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH,GREAT ROOM, KITCHEN, LAUNDRY ROOM, DINING ROOM, FULL BASEMENTNEEDS SOME WORK IN BASEMENT. OPEN LONG BACK DECK,SUNROOM,COVERED FRONT PORCH. $55,000

P755637 WEST BLOCTON ON 7.8 ACS M/L PRIVATE.LARGE 2-STORY HOME 3 BEDROOMS, 3 BATH. MASTER BEDROOM & BATH ON MAIN LEVEL ALONG w/EAT IN KITCHEN,DINING ROOM, GREAT ROOM, LARGE DEN, LAUNDRY ROOM. UPSTAIRS 2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH. $95,000

P755640 GREAT INVESTMENT PROPERTY 2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH ,GREAT ROOM,KITCHEN,1 CAR CARPORT,VINYL SIDING, COVERED FRONT PORCH,FENCED YARD. $25,000

P755643 HANDYMAN SPECIAL BRICK-2 BEDROOM BATH,GREAT ROOM WITH WOOD BURNING FIREPLACE,BONUS ROOM, KITCHEN, DINING ROOM, SCREENED IN FRONT PORCH,CARPORT, ATTACHED 2-CAR GARAGE.. $35,000

1/13/16 12:24 PM

On The Cover

Greater Birmingham

Greater Birmingham PUBLISHER Ken Malone ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Anton Muhammad CEO Robert Hardy SR VP THE REAL ESTATE BOOK Adam Brown TO ADVERTISE CONTACT Anton Muhammad 770-203-7608 birmingham@realestatebook.com

Greater Birmingham HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE SO YOU BOUGHT A ER. FIXER UPP T? NOW WHA See inside for tips!

Truly One of a kind, Custom Home. Over 6500 Sq ft per owner!! Everything you could possibly want is already in this executive estate!! Open Plan. The gourmet kitchen is complete with Custom Vented Hood - Wolf range, 2nd wall oven, built in Refrigerator, separate ice maker & wine cooler. Beautiful island w/breakfast bar, large eat in space & opens to a wonderful Hearth Room!! Incredible windows give a beautiful view of the lake! Formal living room, dining room & great room w/2nd fireplace. Master on main is equipped with what you would expect + double shower heads in tile shower, closet organizer system, jetted tub and separate vanities...4 more br’s + 3 baths up + Mini/Kitchen-full bar, Theater room, Pool table area, work out room, office, full bath complete w/steam shower system finished down!! 2 car main level garage and 3 car basement garage along with circle drive & SO MUCH MORE! This home even has a generator! Nestled in quite cul de sac. Don’t miss this one! Exceptional! $769,900

Text P587569 to 85377

RE/MAX FIRST CHOICE

F I R S T C H O I CRealtor: E Francene Drexler Phone #: 205-965-2065

RE/MAX FIRSTFIRST CHOICE RE/MAX CHOICE

RE/MAX FIRST CHOICE

Realtor: Annette Durrett Realtor: Annette Durrett PhonePhone #: 205-243-9970 #: 205-243-9970

Realtor: Annette Durrett Phone #: 205-243-9970

Realtor: Francene Drexler Realtor: Francene Drexler PhonePhone #: 205-965-2065 #: 205-965-2065

62002.29.1.006.OnTheCover.indd 1

REMODELING?

FIVE PROJECTS TO KICK OFF 2016

FEATURED HOME IN

PELHAM

LUXURIOUS FAMILY LIVING IN A CITY NAMED “The Best Place to Raise Kids” in Alabama

RE/MAX FIRST CHOICE Realtor: Francene Drexler Phone #: 205-965-2065 Realtor: Annette Durrett Phone #: 205-243-9970

REALESTATEBOOK.COM - REQUEST FREE MAGAZINES ONLINE, OR CALL 800-841-3401

Another quality publication from:

2305 Newpoint Parkway Lawrenceville, GA 30043 855.777.7949

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Realtor: Annette Durrett Realtor: Francene Drexler Phone #: 205-243-9970 Phone #: 205-965-2065

1/13/16 12:53 PM

Consider These Factors When Buying an Investment Home Whether your new home is an investment or intended for personal use, there are a few key factors that you should consider for the best possible outcome.

Here are some important considerations to take into account as you search for your new home.

Location.

Tax Benefits.

Visit the area you’re interested in multiple times at different periods of the day before making a decision on that specific locale. Be familiar with the area as well as the features and amenities that your potential community has to offer.

If you rent out your home fewer than 15 days during the tax year, you are still allowed to take the deductions for the interest and taxes. On the other hand, if you rent out the home for 15 days or more during the year, you must report all rental receipts to the IRS as income, but you can also deduct operating expenses such as utilities, repairs, insurance and management fees against that income.

Purchase & Maintenance Costs.

Add up and evaluate all costs associated with buying and maintaining your new home. This will give you an idea of what to expect down the road.

Rental Income.

Is this an investment property? Do NOT depend solely on rental income to pay your bills.

Remember, you’ll also be handing over money to pay for cleaning, maintenance, insurance, and possibly management fees.

62002.29.1.007.HomeInvestment.indd 1

Rental Potential.

Assess and research the potential of renting out your new home. Emotions aside, pick an investment home that will appeal to the largest target market and remember that money factors and demand tend to vary and fluctuate, depending on the economy’s state at the time. Also, find out if your homeowners’ association allows you to rent out a property in addition to using it for your own vacation needs.

1/13/16 12:35 PM

PELHAM

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

$386,900

1 1/2 STORY, MASTER ON MAIN LEVEL! Total of 4 BRs 3 1/2 BAs MLS:734730 Text P116690 to 85377

INCREDIBLE MOUNTAIN TOP HOME in Olde Weatherly! 1 1/2 Story, 5 BR 5.5 BA MLS:729542 Text P826646 to 85377

$439,900

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

$249,900

3 BR ON MAIN LEVEL, 4th BR, Huge Den, 3rd Full BA Finished Down! MLS:729825 Text P826645 to 85377

3 BEDROOM 2 BATHS MLS:617356 Text P487868 to 85377

$319,900

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

$394,900

TOTAL OF 4 BRS 3 1/2 BATHS! MLS:607541 Text P260807 to 85377

PRIVATE - Nothing to be built behind this lot!! MLS:728859 Text P281876 to 85377

$29,000

PELHAM 62002.29.1.008.Pelham.indd 1

1/12/16 5:31 PM

Remodeling Projects to Kick Off 2016 Do you have a New Year’s resolution? No matter what your long-term or short-term goals are for 2016, one thing is for certain: nothing gives you that “fresh start” feeling like a newly remodeled home. Based on home renovations and designs that have gained popularity in 2015, here are some remodeling trends that are here to stay.

1. Mix Modern & Artisan Goods Newer is not always better. A huge design trend in 2016 is the combination of old and new through eclectic décor. Wherever you may shop, be inspired by local finds. Interior design guru Nate Berkus persistently encourages shoppers to buy locally made and globally crafted goods. Don’t be afraid to mix mass produced goods with vintage and artisanal items.

2. Embrace Natural Minerals It’s all about the texture of items in their natural state, and that’s what consumers crave because it exudes that feeling of authenticity and attractive imperfection. Throughout 2016, you’ll see more and more natural minerals that are incorporated into a room’s layout. These can range from accents like pyrite made bowls to large chunks of quartz.

3. Adopt Sustainability Over the past year, there has been increasing popularity of sustainability in homes. More and more consumers are adopting the “Do It Yourself” way of life in an effort to make the most out of what’s in reach. To reflect this, consider recycling, repurposing, and reinventing different ways to manipulate and creatively reuse decorative items in your home.

4. Softer Color Palette Get ready to see a huge popularity in soft colors this year. Jeanette Holmes, designer with Miller Homes, suggests using restful palettes that embrace shades of blue, green, purple, mushroom and pink throughout your home. According to a recent article in Furniture World magazine, you should expect an overall softening of the color palette.

5. Brass Accents Most notably in the kitchen on focal lighting and hardware, brass is predicted to become one of the major finishes, as reported by a study in House Beautiful. Old brass that looks more worn will continue to gain popularity in 2016.

Find ways to implement these features in your abode for a fresh start as well as interested homebuyers!

Source: Loretta J. Willis, Designer; Macala Wright

How Homeowners Can Achieve a ListingReady Home Want to sell your home quickly and for the best price? Making some small improvements can give buyers the best first impression and make a world of difference when selling your home.

1. Curb Appeal The first thing that buyers will see is the outside of your house. Does the outside make them want to see the inside? A well kept yard, an inviting porch, a clean driveway – all increase the likelihood that buyers will want to see more, so start here. Clean up the lawn and the driveway. Touch up or repaint the exterior.

Clean gutters and keep the porches swept and inviting. Showing that the exterior of your home is wellkept will lead buyers to the assumption that the home is well-kept in general.

2. Clean, de-clutter and simplify.

Do a deep clean or hire a professional cleaning crew to make sure everything looks its best. Keep carpets vacuumed and beds made. Make the rooms look larger by removing clutter and large furniture.

Packed closets and cabinets also lead others to believe there is inadequate storage, so clean those out, too. Make sure to keep all the dishes away, hang clothes neatly in closets, make sure all light bulbs work, and towels in the bathroom and kitchen need to be clean and folded neatly. Help buyers imagine their own things in your home by storing personal items such as photos and knick-knacks.

3. Update

This includes fresh paint, replacing outdated appliances and fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom. If it’s not in your budget to replace, you can add new hardware on cabinets and sinks. If you can, replace outdated flooring or stained carpeting – or at least have them professionally cleaned.

Interior paint is one of the easiest ways to freshen up your home and increase its value. And, while that dramatic purple wall in the dining room may have matched your chairs, it may be hard for buyers to imagine with their furnishings. Use light, neutral colors that make the rooms look bright and large and that match any decor.

4. Consider hiring a home inspector.

It’s very likely that a buyer will hire one anyway – after they’ve made an offer, so being honest about your home’s condition will help you avoid any surprises or complications with the contract and closing later.

And, although you don’t have to make any non-essential repairs, you may discover essential ones of which you may be unaware.

5. Interview real estate agents and ask them about their marketing plan for your home.

After you’ve done all the work to get it ready to list, an aggressive marketing plan will ensure that as many buyers as possible see it.

Most agents will list the home in the Multiple Listing Service database, on their website and on their company website. Ask them about also putting it on other top ranked real estate sites. Also, according to the National Association of REALTORS, most buyers move within 11 miles of their previous residence – so ask about local advertising as well.

The sign in your yard should include the agent’s information. Many add a brochure box, but it’s difficult to keep it full. Ask about adding a text code that leads buyers to a mobile site for your home that shows more information and photos, so the information is always readily available to interested buyers.

Best Ways to Spend Your Tax Return It’s always a pleasant surprise to get a big chunk of money back on your tax return. How should you spend that money, though? Instead of hitting the mall, where you’ll most likely make an impulse purchase, put that money in a place worth spending.

Have you considered these ideas?

1. Update Your Home’s Fixtures.

Updating fixtures in your home is another simple, low-cost way to remodel in a small but big way.

Replace door handles, hinges, faucets, and light switch plates for an updated look throughout your home. Keeping up with new home design trends will resonate with new homebuyers because you’ll have all the latest styles.

2. Trim and Mouldings Installing crown moulding, baseboards or wainscoting is a sure-fire way to create a more refined look. Your new trim and moulding will add beautiful detail and elegance to your home as well as appeal to all types of homebuyers’ senses.

3. Make Kitchen Repairs Buyers want to be wowed by the kitchen, but that doesn’t mean you have to fork over tens of thousands of dollars to make that happen. Focus on making repairs that cost well under $500, like

tightening a leaky faucet or eliminating burn marks on countertops. For a cheap alternative to repainting your cabinets, consider updating your hardware in a modern finish.

4. Spruce Up the Exterior Your home’s exterior is the first impression for many buyers online and in person. Aside from keeping up with maintenance like mowing the lawn and trimming shrubs, assess the outside of your home for any repair work – a fading front door, cracked siding or a loose step – that needs to be completed before selling.

5. Upgrade the Bathroom Bathrooms can become a point of contention for buyers if they’re not in tip-top shape. Rather than taking on an expensive renovation, make minor upgrades that have an impact. Caulk the tub, re-grout tile, and install new fixtures.

Whether or not you’re getting your house ready to sell, these remodeling tweaks are easy, cost-effective, and will result in a great new look. They may be small, but these renovations make a huge impact, making your home feel like new!

Your Winter Plumbing Guide Preparing your home's plumbing for the winter is vital to minimizing the risk of potentially expensive repairs. Burst pipes, faulty boilers and radiators all need an inspection to ensure they're in good working condition. Being prepared is better than being taken by surprise, so spend the time to ensure your home is completely winterized.

Radiators

Pipes

Your radiators are a key component, not only in your home's heating system, but also for your comfort during the cold winter. Bleeding your radiators is a good way to restore their performance and efficiency.

Pipes, more specifically frozen pipes, are often hit hardest by winter. With some simple precautions, you should be able to avoid any damage to your home’s plumbing system. All exposed pipes need to be covered with good lagging. Lagging provides protection to exposed pipes and taps during the cold winter and is more of a necessity than a good investment. Lagging helps reduce the risk of your home’s pipes bursting, keeping condensation build up around the pipes to a minimum, and improves energy efficiency. Good lagging could not only protect your heating and plumbing, but it could also save you some money in the process.

There is an easy way to determine whether your radiators need bleeding – check if they're hot at the top, but cold at the bottom. A simple home remedy is to get your radiator key and a cloth, and locate the square shaped bleed valve which is usually located near the top of the radiator. Turn off the heating, and gently turn the radiator key while holding the cloth underneath to catch any dripping water, and let the air escape until water starts flowing. Tighten the valve again and move on to the next unit.

Boilers

Boilers can have a serious impact on your home's energy efficiency, so the first step is to ensure you have a modern boiler. Older boilers tend to use a lot more energy than their modern counterparts.

If your boiler is older than 15 years, then it may be time for a replacement. If you have a modern boiler, you should have it properly serviced before the winter.

There are a number of plumbers and plumbing companies that will install lagging for you.

However, be sure that the company you choose is a reputable and / or trusted authority—dealing with damaged pipes and a broken heating system in the middle of winter could be extremely inconvenient, not to mention expensive if not properly taken cared for.

Source: Dyno.com; RISMedia

Heartfelt Home Design to Impress Your

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Who says you have to celebrate love just one day out of the year?

Why not every other day, too? Add some romance to your home with some new decorating techniques that will wow your valentine!

We’ll show you how to transform your home into a romantic paradise where love never fades. Here are some DIY home design tips to try:

1. Romantic Furnishings

Add luxury to a room with a chaise lounge or a four-poster bed. With a bed with soft and silky sheets as the focal point of the room, it will radiate with elegance and romance.

2. Soft Lighting

When you want romance in your home, be sure to stay away from bright lights. Lighting should be soft to give off the right vibe. Try installing dimmer switches on lamps and chandeliers so you can easily adjust the brightness to match the room's mood.

3. Fireplaces & Candles The flickering flames from a fire bring out the romance in a room. Fireplaces and candles create subtle light to both invigorate and relax the occupants.

4. Satisfy the Senses Sense of Touch Take advantage of your sense of touch through soft fabrics, bath curtains and the use of velvet or similar materials for upholstered chairs. On lamps, opaque shades will give your skin a beautiful glow and soft, plush towels are a nice touch for a romantic atmosphere.

Sense of Smell Enhance the overall mood in the room with the power of scent. In every room of the house, use scented oils and candles while keeping a subtle smell that is not over-powering. Add lovely aromas by placing fresh cut flowers around your home.

Sense of Sight Captivate the sense of sight with lovely artwork of landscapes, sculptures, or still-life paintings.

Place delicate vases on dressers or a stack a poetry collection on a piece of furniture to enhance the romantic aura.

Sense of Sound You can filter sound and keep noise levels down in your home’s romantic space by using curtains and soft, plush rugs. Keep the television off or in another room to minimize noise.

Using these home-decorating tips, you can create a romantic and elegant aura throughout your home this Valentine's Day and all year long. As you decorate your home, concentrate on captivating all the senses. Sight, sound, touch, and smell should be used in soft and subtle ways to provide both luxury and tranquility.

So You Bought A Fixer Upper. now what?

If you just purchased an older home, chances are that you have some work to do! After all, just because a home needs a little more love and elbow grease doesn’t mean it’s not worth it.

The term “fixer upper” refers to older homes that are in need of repairs, maintenance, and possibly some remodeling. You may even get a much better deal on a house purchase by addressing repairs or updates that the previous owner hasn’t or won’t address.

So what’s next? Before you grab all your bags and the family pet to move in, there are some important factors to consider, which we’ll discuss here.

1. Is this your forever home?

3. Tile Tips

On the other hand, if you’re living there for only a certain number of years, you may want to consider more classic styles that will stay current in popularity even as years pass. Choose hardwood floors in classic stains that can be refinished before listing the house to sell.

4. Check above, below, around, and within.

In addition to home repairs, there are certain improvements and renovations that are appropriate for the length of time you plan to own and reside in your home. For example, you’ll have much more freedom to select taste-specific options if this is your final home purchase.

2. Carpet or hardwood?

If your fixer upper has hardwood in poor condition, but only in certain sections, you have the more economical option of only replacing the parts that are damaged. Or, all you may need is to sand down the hardwood and apply a fresh stain.

When it comes to carpet, darker colors are always a safe bet because it will mask dirt and stains. Also, darker colored carpet can be cleaned frequently without affecting its overall quality and appearance.

Most importantly in bathrooms, you need to use a flooring material that resists water and moisture. It doesn’t end with buying the tiles, though. You will need to acquire some type of thinset or mortar to attach the tile to the sub-floor, grout to fill in the cracks, and specific tools in order to get a professional, finished look.

According to a recent article by Home Depot, one of the most important steps after purchasing a fixer-upper is to check the basement below, the roof above, the siding around, along with the sewer pipes and HVAC ducts within.

These make up the foundation of your home and addressing any issues before moving in will set you on the path of enjoying your new home.

At the end of the day, if you’re prepared for a fixer-upper well before taking the leap, then you’ll undoubtedly reap the benefits and rewards. Hard work really does pay off, but still never forget about all the resources at your disposal whenever you need a little extra help or advice.

Source: Home Depot; Washington Post; AmeriFirst Home Buyer Learning Center

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1551_TREB_Market_Dev_FillerMAG.indd 62002.29.1.009.MarketDevFiller.indd 1 1

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Johnny Pate Life Member Club of Excellence

C ell : 229-6224

OAK GROVE - MLS# 733270

All brick 2-story. 4BR/3.5BA, parking on both levels, SUPER Kitchen, lots of hardwoods.

Priced to sell at $229,900.

Text P859421 to 85377

CONCORD - MLS# 728589

BRADFORD PARK - MLS# 733561

Looking for a nice place to put your horses and fish and hunt? Here it is! Brick Rancher on 42+ acres. Barn with stalls, Lake, and more. $254,900 Text P474127 to 85377

VIRGINIA RIDGE - MLS# 731682

HUEYTOWN’S VIRGINIA ESTATES - MLS# 732580

3BR/2BA, 2-car Carport + a 2-car detached Garage. Workshop, covered screened Deck, + open deck. Large lot. $139,900 Text P842090 to 85377

All brick 4BR/3BA with Sunroom and covered screened deck. Basement could be an Apartment. Double Garage down. $269,900.

Text P859423 to 85377

CONCORD - MLS# 733562

BESSEMER - MLS# 731247

4BR/2BA, one level, corner lot, vinyl siding, metal roof, new deck, some wood ceilings. $110,000.

Text P859420 to 85377

McCALLA - MLS# 730505

One level Garden Home. Sunroom, 3BR/2BA, formal Dining Room, Great Room, Deck, fenced yard and a lot more. $149,500.

Text P859422 to 85377

One level, 3BR/1BA, laminated Hardwood floor, LR, DR. Remodeled Bath and Kitchen.

Only $64,000 in Carriage Hills.

Text P244449 to 85377

5BR/3BA, in-law Basement Apartment, 2 car Basement parking, 2 detached Garages on 3+/acres. $239,900 Text P859424 to 85377

MIDFIELD - MLS# 727142

Fairfield Highlands. 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, extra lot, covered front porch, ramp on rear entrance, fenced yard. $64,900 Text P842083 to 85377

www.ThePateTeam.com

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Johnny Pate Life Member Club of Excellence

C ell : 229-6224

CONCORD - MLS# 736730

Nice one level on a full unfinished basement, vinyl siding, metal roof, large deck, remodeled master bath. $74,900 Text P884311 to 85377

ADGER - MLS# 737496

You won’t find a better view than this one has! Great room and kitchen area has windows on three sides facing the river.

Picture perfect view up and down the river. This is a must see! $219,900.

Text P884315 to 85377

MCCALLA - MLS# 739293

All brick one level, one owner, on a full unfinished basement, large great room, open kitchen, dining room. Split bedrooms, screened covered deck, basement has poured concrete walls, double garage main level. $299,900.

Text P884318 to 85377

HUEYTOWN - MLS# 736730

Nice one level with vinyl siding metal roof, hardwood floors, updated baths and kitchen, separate den, one car carport, all on 1.68 Acres. $99,900 Text P884312 to 85377

McCALLA - MLS# 730509

All original Pizzeria. Business equipment, Inventory, Business name. 2 years or less pay back leased building. $90,000.

Text T1634551 to 85377

BESSEMER - MLS# 734679

Thomas Acres, 3BR/2BA, Bonus Room up, 3-car Carport, Den, Formal Living Room and Dining Room. $114,900.

Text P244464 to 85377

BESSEMER - MLS# 735598

All brick one level, laminate hardwood floors thru out, double carport, storage building to remain, super workshop in unfinished basement, large deck off den, canopy to remain built in fan and lights, dead end street on 1/2 acre lot. $124,900.

Text P884313 to 85377

HUEYTOWN - MLS# 736785

Custom built with all the extras. Master bedroom and bath on main level, hardwoods on main level and part of upstairs, ceramic baths, sunroom opens on to an open deck and inground pool. $279,900.

Text P884316 to 85377

BESSEMER - MLS# 734838

Ideal location for restaurant or business. Plenty of parking on both sides of bldg. 1.48 acres, currently a curb market. Building & land only. $185,000.

Text P884694 to 85377

www.ThePateTeam.com

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CALERA / MONTEVALLO

Sue Lowery 205.368.1875

Kathy Dailey 205.337.7031

$99,900

CALERA 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths. MLS 734542 Text P870624 to 85377

MONTEVALLO 3BR/2BA MLS:608809 Text P799286 to 85377

$119,900

Kathy Dailey 205.337.7031

Sue Lowery 205.368.1875

$109,900

BEAUTIFUL BUNGALOW IN CALERA! 3 Bedrooms/2 Baths MLS:733307 Text P178404 to 85377

MONTEVALLO - Property with clean palette -design your own home! MLS:734071 Text P871886 to 85377

$249,000

Kathy Dailey 205.337.7031

Sue Lowery 205.368.1875

$125,900

CALERA 3 Bedrooms/2Baths MLS:725416 Text P245786 to 85377

MONTEVALLO- Everything updated in this beautiful 3BR/2BA home in Arden Park. MLS:724769 Text P861717 to 85377

$129,900

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BESSEMER

Derrick Seay 205.248.8373

Johnny Pate 205.229.6224

$124,900

BESSEMER - Great opportunity to buy a completely remodeled home Text P118282 to 85377

HUEYTOWN’S VIRGINIA ESTATES 5BR/3BA Text P859424 to 85377

$239,900

Johnny Pate 205.229.6224

Derrick Seay 205.248.8373

$229,900

OAK GROVE 4BR/3.5BA Text P859421 to 85377

BESSEMER 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath home Text P321197 to 85377

$47,500

Derrick Seay 205.248.8373

Johnny Pate 205.229.6224

$8,400

BESSEMER Mobile Home, 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths Text P209096 to 85377

BESSEMER Ideal location for restaurant or business.

$185,000

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USDA • VA • FHA and CONVENTIONAL LOANS Fast Closings & Great Service!

SHANE RAY

KELLER McKAIG

NMLS: 201416 205.821.0402 (C)

NMLS: 207478 205.369.6710 (C)

shane@southtownmtg.com

keller@southtownmtg.com

Branch Manager

Assistant Branch Manager

OFFICE NMLS: 65084 • 205.640.4148 | OFFICE 1.877.858.8989 Fax 2841 Moody Parkway • Suite 500 • Moody, Alabama 35004

ALABASTER

Kathy Dailey 205.337.7031

$229.900

Your home could be featured here!

ONE OWNER BEAUTY IN ALABASTER! 4BR/3BA MLS:730701 Text P329908 to 85377

ALABASTER

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Add Cultural Flair to Your Kitchen Remodel

by Courtney Soinski

Every great kitchen starts with great design. Whether you favor clean, contemporary lines or err on the side of traditional, trends today draw inspiration from global sources, incorporating cultural influences from around the world while balancing the practical needs of families. To add worldly flair to your kitchen, start by:

Getting Fancy with Flooring

Opening Up with Cabinetry

Certain materials establish a regional look because they are widely available in that region.

In India, where quarries make natural stones easily affordable, kitchens commonly feature floors of glossy marble or other stone. Ceramic tile is abundant in Spain, and a wide variety of styles are available to create the underpinning for any regionally-inspired kitchen design.

The material and color you choose for your cabinets will play a defining role in the overall appearance of your kitchen. Flat white or frosted glass doors can impart a very modern, European flair, while distressed woods in rustic hues create a Tuscan effect.

Paving the Way with Walls Kitchens around the world have signature design elements when it comes to walls. Wood paneling is a hallmark of English country kitchens, while modern Japanese kitchens, which are often limited in space, are made to look larger with walls of floor-to-ceiling windows.

And arches and bright tile accents lend themselves to Mexican design.

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Coloring Your World Specific colors are tied to certain world cultures, regions and locations – walls in a soft mandarin paired with burgundy window treatments can build an Asian-inspired backdrop, and Aegean blue and sand backsplash tiles speak of a subtle Mediterranean influence.

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Source: SFGate.com, HouseLogic.com

Your Kitchen Cabinets: To Upkeep, Overhaul, or Uproot?

They are used everyday, have much weight to bear, and are crucial for organization. What is it, you may ask?

The answer is simple – your kitchen cabinets. These cabinets are the main focal point in your kitchen and more than likely take up the most wall space than any other permanent fixture in the home.

They are also one of the more expensive items to replace when remodeling.

But what to do when your kitchen cabinets are looking drab and dull?

The Upkeep: Maintain the Original Look If you love your cabinets just the way they are, then proper maintenance and cleaning can keep them beautiful. Wipe up splatters and spills right away so the food substance does not get the chance to harden. If there are already some hard to scrub places, opt for gentle cleaners. Something as simple as equal parts vinegar and water will be gentle enough to scrub away debris. For the more stubborn of food goo, try letting undiluted vinegar sit for a few minutes and then scrape it away with a nonabrasive brush or sponge.

The Overhaul: Get Creative When you own your home, there are no limits to your creativity! A crucial step in this DIY process is to label all hardware, doors, and drawers so you can reset your house quickly when you’re finished.

Choose your favorite color and paint your cabinets for a new, clean look.

Feeling particularly bold? Think of stencils, contact paper, vinyl lettering – the sky’s the limit! Try using tape to create your own designs and to keep the lines cleaner. Cabinets do not always have to be a single color either. Some folks go two-toned to add depth. Spray paint your hinges and replace your drawer pulls to finish the look.

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Go Pro Perhaps creativity isn’t in your repertoire? No problem. There are various kinds of companies offering options such as professional staining, painting, or refacing. Cabinet refacing is a less expensive method than replacing your entire cabinet set.

There are several different approaches to the art. Firstly, rigid thermofoil, or RTF, is a plastic coating over a fiberboard, which is both durable and affordable. Secondly, laminate is a more known material, offering hundreds of different designs to fit any fancy. Finally, real wood veneers are the most expensive of the three, but also offer a beautiful real wood look and can be stained to your liking.

The Uproot: The Remodel Option Of course, with all three of these above stated routes, there’s no cure for structure. If your cabinets are lacking the structural integrity to bear their burdens, then they have to go. It’s a major safety issue, not to mention expensive, if any or all of them were to come tumbling down.

Giving them a facelift won’t do anything but make the danger beautiful. Also, with refacing or painting, there is no solution for a bad kitchen design. If the kitchen cabinets aren’t placed well in the first place, then a remodel is a great option to ensure that this well used room is at it’s peak functionality.

With careful consideration for which option is best for you, your kitchen will stay beautiful and functional for many happy years to come!

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