A well-landscaped yard creates curb appeal and helps your property retain maximum value.
A beautiful yard is a head-turner, no doubt about it. The good news is that even if you can't tell a tulip from a turnip at the garden center, you can still create eye-catching curb appeal by paying attention to the basics of good landscaping. Ignoring your yard--or doing something that's out of character with the neighborhood-can jeopardize the assessed value of your home.
"We have several categories for design and appeal," says Frank Lucco, a real estate agent and professional appraiser in Houston. "That's where we make those adjustments. Poorly maintained landscaping can be as much as a 5 or 10% deduction."
Appraisers are quick to praise the allure of a well-tended lawn and good-looking landscaping when it comes time to sell your home, but most do not assign any specific increase in monetary value for upkeep.
"Landscaping is going to add to the appeal of the property and it may sell quicker, but it's hard to determine value," says John Bredemeyer, president of Omaha-based Realcorp. "You have to have a number to compensate someone if you drove into their tree and killed it, but is it really market value? Probably not."
Nevertheless, most professionals agree that curb appeal and a well-maintained appearance prevent your property from losing value. Here are the top suggestions from real estate agents, appraisers, and landscape designers for boosting the curb appeal of your yard:
GREEN UP THE GRASS
If your house has a front yard, make sure it's neat and green. You don't want bare spots, sprawling weeds, or an untrimmed appearance.
"It's so simple to go to Home Depot, buy fertilizer, apply it every six weeks, and water it," says Mitch Kalamian, a landscape designer in Huntinginton Beach, Calif. "It will green up."
If the yard looks really scruffy, you may decide to invest in some sod. According to the National Gardening Association, the average cost of sod is 15 to 35 cents per sq. ft. If you hire a landscaper to sod your yard for you, labor will add 30% to 50% to the total cost of the project.
Another alternative is to plant low-maintenance turf grasses. Turf grasses are durable and drought-resistant. Expect to pay $18 to $30 for enough turf grass seed to plant 1,000 sq. ft. of lawn area.
ADD COLORFUL PLANTING BEDS
Flower beds add color and help enliven otherwise plain areas, such as along driveways and the edges of walkways. In general, annual flowers are a bit cheaper but must be replaced every year. Perennials cost a bit more but come back annually and usually get larger or spread with each growing season.
If you're not sure what to plant, inquire at your local garden center. Often, they'll have a display of bedding plants chosen for their adaptability to your area. Also, they'll be inexpensive because they're in season, says Peter Mezitt, president of Weston Nurseries in Hopkinton, Mass. Try pansies in the summer, and asters and mums in the fall to add vibrant color. "That's what we do around the entrance to our garden center," Mezitt says.
Valerie Torelli, a California REALTOR; who dresses up her clients' yards to sell their houses faster and for more money, says that in her market, she can put in a bed of colorful annuals and bark, as well as cutting down overgrown shrubs, for less than $500. "We can buy gorgeous plants for $3.99 to $15.99," she says.
ADD LANDSCAPE LIGHTING
For homeowners who have made a sizeable investment in landscaping, it makes sense to think about adding another 10% to 15% to the bill for professional lighting. "You can't see landscaping after dark," says Brandon Stephens, vice president of marketing for a landscape lighting firm in Lubbock, Texas, "and buyers are not always looking at houses on a Saturday afternoon."
The cost of a system runs from $200 for a DIY installation to more than $4,000 for a professional job. If you're doing it on your own, the key is to light what you want people to see, such as mature trees and flowering shrubs.
PLANT A TREE
The value of mature trees is particularly difficult to determine. Lucco says that in his market, mature trees contribute as much as 10% of a $100,000 property's overall value. In addition, a properly placed shade tree can shave as much as $32 a year on your energy bills. Expect to pay $50 to $100 for a young, 6- to 7-foot deciduous tree.
You can make your own initial assessment of the value of your property's trees by visiting the National Tree Benefit Calculator. For example, a mature Southern red oak tree with a diameter of 36 inches in the front yard of a house in Augusta, Ga., would add $70 to the property value this year, according to the calculator.
Georgia-based freelance writer Pat Curry writes extensively about housing and real estate for consumer and trade publications. While a fair hand at remodeling, she is hopeless as a gardener. As a result, her landscaping is made up of plants that thrive on neglect.
Article From Houselogic.com
By: Pat Curry
Published: March 25, 2010
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Pending Home Sales Post Surprise Jump in July
Pending sales of previously owned U.S. homes rose unexpectedly in July, an industry group said on Thursday, suggesting a tax credit-related housing market decline was close to bottoming.
The National Association of Realtors said its Pending Home Sales Index, based on contracts signed in July, increased 5.2 percent to 79.4 from June.
June contracts were revised to show a slightly bigger 2.8 percent decline instead of the previously reported 2.6 percent fall.
Compared to the July last year, pending home sales fell 19.1 percent. Economists polled by Reuters forecast the index, which leads existing home sales by a month or two, falling 1.0 percent in July.
Home sales and building activity have dropped sharply following the end in April of a popular tax credit for home buyers.
"Home sales will remain soft in the months ahead, but improved affordability conditions should help with a recovery," said Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist.
Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
The National Association of Realtors said its Pending Home Sales Index, based on contracts signed in July, increased 5.2 percent to 79.4 from June.
June contracts were revised to show a slightly bigger 2.8 percent decline instead of the previously reported 2.6 percent fall.
Compared to the July last year, pending home sales fell 19.1 percent. Economists polled by Reuters forecast the index, which leads existing home sales by a month or two, falling 1.0 percent in July.
Home sales and building activity have dropped sharply following the end in April of a popular tax credit for home buyers.
"Home sales will remain soft in the months ahead, but improved affordability conditions should help with a recovery," said Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist.
Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
Monday, August 30, 2010
Another Home Buyer Tax Credit?
Just when I thought the housing market was finally being left to correct on its own, I'm starting to hear talk regarding yet another home buyer tax credit. From HUD to the hedge funds, it sounds as if it is gaining steam yet again. This one could involve not just first time/move-up buyers, but a credit for buyers purchasing foreclosed properties or short sales (when the bank allows you to buy a home for less than the value of the outstanding mortgage).
HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan, appearing on CNN's State of the Union this weekend, didn't rule out another tax credit. He did say it's "too early to say," but then added that "we're going to be focused like a laser on where the housing market is moving going forward, and we are going to go everywhere we can to make sure this market stabilizes and recovers."
After that several Congressional candidates in Florida threw their voices behind the possibility, and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist then chimed in on the same show, saying that another tax credit, "would stimulate the economy. It would increase home sales in Florida." He finished with: "I would absolutely encourage the president to support that because it would certainly help my fellow Floridians."
So of course then I went the official route and followed up with a HUD spokesperson who responded: "No news here...there are no discussions underway to revive the credit."
Is it all political? And is another tax credit the answer? "I don't think it's all political," says housing consultant Howard Glaser. "I think they are panicked that the economy/housing got away from them." Glaser doesn't sound convinced the tax credit is really on the table. "They can do a lot off budget with the GSE's and FHA with no Congress."
I know a lot of you out there would argue that a housing market correction, as painful as it is, is necessary for housing to truly find its footing again and recover for the long term. Another artificial stimulus could just prolong the agony and set us up for the same drop off in sales and prices that we're seeing right now.
But it could also move some inventory quickly. With inventories of new and existing homes dangerously high, and the shadow supply of foreclosures pushing that volume even higher, more stimulus could be a necessary evil. I liken it to what I'm doing with my lawn this week. All summer I fought the weeds, pulling them, using the organic sprays and repellents, spreading mulch to deprive them of any air. And then I gave up. I called the lawn service and told them to bring every chemical in their arsenal. Shock the overgrown mess into submission once and for all, so that I can start fresh again and reseed this fall.
Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan, appearing on CNN's State of the Union this weekend, didn't rule out another tax credit. He did say it's "too early to say," but then added that "we're going to be focused like a laser on where the housing market is moving going forward, and we are going to go everywhere we can to make sure this market stabilizes and recovers."
After that several Congressional candidates in Florida threw their voices behind the possibility, and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist then chimed in on the same show, saying that another tax credit, "would stimulate the economy. It would increase home sales in Florida." He finished with: "I would absolutely encourage the president to support that because it would certainly help my fellow Floridians."
So of course then I went the official route and followed up with a HUD spokesperson who responded: "No news here...there are no discussions underway to revive the credit."
Is it all political? And is another tax credit the answer? "I don't think it's all political," says housing consultant Howard Glaser. "I think they are panicked that the economy/housing got away from them." Glaser doesn't sound convinced the tax credit is really on the table. "They can do a lot off budget with the GSE's and FHA with no Congress."
I know a lot of you out there would argue that a housing market correction, as painful as it is, is necessary for housing to truly find its footing again and recover for the long term. Another artificial stimulus could just prolong the agony and set us up for the same drop off in sales and prices that we're seeing right now.
But it could also move some inventory quickly. With inventories of new and existing homes dangerously high, and the shadow supply of foreclosures pushing that volume even higher, more stimulus could be a necessary evil. I liken it to what I'm doing with my lawn this week. All summer I fought the weeds, pulling them, using the organic sprays and repellents, spreading mulch to deprive them of any air. And then I gave up. I called the lawn service and told them to bring every chemical in their arsenal. Shock the overgrown mess into submission once and for all, so that I can start fresh again and reseed this fall.
Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
Friday, August 27, 2010
Brunswick County towns seek their own ‘brand' to lure tourists
It's not that difficult to figure out how to persuade tourists to come to Brunswick County's beaches.
Nearby towns without oceanfront property have to try a little harder – but that's exactly what several of them are doing.
The city of Southport took a step toward increasing its occupancy tax and creating a tourism development authority with a vote earlier this week.
After a public hearing Sept. 9, aldermen will vote a final time on the 2-cent tax hike.
If it is approved, Southport will join two other inland Brunswick County towns boosting their efforts in promoting tourism.
It's harder for these areas to find their "brand" without the natural draw of the ocean.
But town leaders hope the extra marketing efforts will be successful in bringing in people looking for a different experience.
"We're not a beach town," said Southport Alderman Ed Boguskie. "If people are just coming to the beach, they're not going to come here unless there's a reason to come here."
Since 1998, Brunswick County has had its own tourism development authority – known as Brunswick Islands.
While it does work to promote the entire county, Executive Director Mitzi York said its brand is centered on the beaches.
The inland towns don't think that's the wrong thing to do, but the marketing strategy doesn't help them as much.
"The slogan on their brochures is ‘More beach for your blanket,'" Southport Alderman Ken Karn said. "That's great. It brings more people to the beach, but not necessarily to Southport."
The city hopes to bring in about $30,000 from the room tax increase, which Karn said will help advertise its relaxing, laid-back Southern atmosphere.
Southport is following in the footsteps of Leland, which formed its development authority late last year. The authority is now working on creating a tourism logo for the town and distilling its brand, said Chairman Barry Eagle, who is general manager of the Comfort Suites at Magnolia Greens.
Early thoughts are to focus on Leland's central location, close to both downtown Wilmington and the beaches.
It also plans to focus on outdoor sports like kayaking and emphasize the town's parks.
"We've got to figure out, ‘What do we have?'" said Dana Fisher, executive director of the North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce and authority board member.
Shallotte also has a tourism development authority, which was launched in 1998.
It plans to bring in $60,000 this year.
That town has branded itself as a place to golf and enjoy the river.
"We're becoming a destination within ourselves," said Terri Durham, authority board chairwoman and director of the Southeastern Welcome Center. "We have a lot to offer."
Full Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
Nearby towns without oceanfront property have to try a little harder – but that's exactly what several of them are doing.
The city of Southport took a step toward increasing its occupancy tax and creating a tourism development authority with a vote earlier this week.
After a public hearing Sept. 9, aldermen will vote a final time on the 2-cent tax hike.
If it is approved, Southport will join two other inland Brunswick County towns boosting their efforts in promoting tourism.
It's harder for these areas to find their "brand" without the natural draw of the ocean.
But town leaders hope the extra marketing efforts will be successful in bringing in people looking for a different experience.
"We're not a beach town," said Southport Alderman Ed Boguskie. "If people are just coming to the beach, they're not going to come here unless there's a reason to come here."
Since 1998, Brunswick County has had its own tourism development authority – known as Brunswick Islands.
While it does work to promote the entire county, Executive Director Mitzi York said its brand is centered on the beaches.
The inland towns don't think that's the wrong thing to do, but the marketing strategy doesn't help them as much.
"The slogan on their brochures is ‘More beach for your blanket,'" Southport Alderman Ken Karn said. "That's great. It brings more people to the beach, but not necessarily to Southport."
The city hopes to bring in about $30,000 from the room tax increase, which Karn said will help advertise its relaxing, laid-back Southern atmosphere.
Southport is following in the footsteps of Leland, which formed its development authority late last year. The authority is now working on creating a tourism logo for the town and distilling its brand, said Chairman Barry Eagle, who is general manager of the Comfort Suites at Magnolia Greens.
Early thoughts are to focus on Leland's central location, close to both downtown Wilmington and the beaches.
It also plans to focus on outdoor sports like kayaking and emphasize the town's parks.
"We've got to figure out, ‘What do we have?'" said Dana Fisher, executive director of the North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce and authority board member.
Shallotte also has a tourism development authority, which was launched in 1998.
It plans to bring in $60,000 this year.
That town has branded itself as a place to golf and enjoy the river.
"We're becoming a destination within ourselves," said Terri Durham, authority board chairwoman and director of the Southeastern Welcome Center. "We have a lot to offer."
Full Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Kitchen Remodeling Trends
If you're shopping for a new home, chances are, whether you cook or not, the kitchen is an area of great interest. The bathroom is also likely high on the list to inspect. That's because we spend a lot of time in both of these rooms, socializing and taking care of the, ahem, important stuff.
These two areas of homes are so vital that there's even an association to educate, certify industry professionals, and promote ideas for these rooms. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), founded in 1963 as The American Institute of Kitchen Dealers, has nearly 40,000 members. Earlier this year it released its top trends for kitchens and bathrooms for 2010.
Finding what you like in a home is most important but if you're considering a resale in the future, understanding what appeals to the masses can help. Here, then, is a look at some of the top trends from NKBA.
Concealed Kitchens. This doesn't mean that you walk into a home and can't find the kitchen. Instead, the kitchen area blends with other areas of the home. Formal dining spaces often aren't used much. But when a home has a kitchen that opens to a great room, it allows far more flexibility for people's lives. What may be concealed are items such as commonly used appliances. Ultimately, the harmonious blending of color, design, and functionality make kitchens aesthetically pleasing and useful. NKBA writes in a press release that, "Clean structural lines coupled with sleek color palettes enable the space to establish a distinctive identity, without overpowering the surrounding rooms."
Thirst-Quenching Stations. NKBA writes that beverage stations, complete with under-counter refrigerators that hold beverages and wine, are a new element in many kitchens. Exemplifying our attachment to our morning ritual, many of these beverage stations include a coffee station ("simple single-pot coffeemakers to larger units capable of espresso, latte, and cappuccino"), states NKBA. The design typically includes space for stemware, beverage mugs and glasses, and condiments. This setup allows people to gather to quench their thirst while being out of the way of the chefs.
Rounding Out the Edges. Think soft geometry. Countertops, islands, archways, and even light fixtures, are being designed with soft, round edges. According to NKBA, "The introduction of rounded islands and countertops carves a smooth-flowing traffic pattern throughout the room, while an appropriately placed arch will bring an overall softening to the more angular fixed features that are typical in kitchens and baths."
Varied Heights. No more monotony. Kitchen countertops, islands, and even walls are being designed for specific purposes and that means their heights are varied. The various heights create "a beautiful counterbalance."
Asian influence. There has long been a fascination with Asian countries and now it seems that the impact of Japanese design is showing up in subtle ways such as "clean lines, open spaces, and neutral color palettes with bold splashes of color in select areas," according to NKBA. The association says oftentimes there will be "one strong anchor piece of Japanese origin" that designs are built around.
Whether you're shopping for a new home or thinking of remodeling your current home, remember that trends do change. However, those that tend to stick are the ones that combine pleasing looks with highly functional features.
Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
These two areas of homes are so vital that there's even an association to educate, certify industry professionals, and promote ideas for these rooms. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), founded in 1963 as The American Institute of Kitchen Dealers, has nearly 40,000 members. Earlier this year it released its top trends for kitchens and bathrooms for 2010.
Finding what you like in a home is most important but if you're considering a resale in the future, understanding what appeals to the masses can help. Here, then, is a look at some of the top trends from NKBA.
Concealed Kitchens. This doesn't mean that you walk into a home and can't find the kitchen. Instead, the kitchen area blends with other areas of the home. Formal dining spaces often aren't used much. But when a home has a kitchen that opens to a great room, it allows far more flexibility for people's lives. What may be concealed are items such as commonly used appliances. Ultimately, the harmonious blending of color, design, and functionality make kitchens aesthetically pleasing and useful. NKBA writes in a press release that, "Clean structural lines coupled with sleek color palettes enable the space to establish a distinctive identity, without overpowering the surrounding rooms."
Thirst-Quenching Stations. NKBA writes that beverage stations, complete with under-counter refrigerators that hold beverages and wine, are a new element in many kitchens. Exemplifying our attachment to our morning ritual, many of these beverage stations include a coffee station ("simple single-pot coffeemakers to larger units capable of espresso, latte, and cappuccino"), states NKBA. The design typically includes space for stemware, beverage mugs and glasses, and condiments. This setup allows people to gather to quench their thirst while being out of the way of the chefs.
Rounding Out the Edges. Think soft geometry. Countertops, islands, archways, and even light fixtures, are being designed with soft, round edges. According to NKBA, "The introduction of rounded islands and countertops carves a smooth-flowing traffic pattern throughout the room, while an appropriately placed arch will bring an overall softening to the more angular fixed features that are typical in kitchens and baths."
Varied Heights. No more monotony. Kitchen countertops, islands, and even walls are being designed for specific purposes and that means their heights are varied. The various heights create "a beautiful counterbalance."
Asian influence. There has long been a fascination with Asian countries and now it seems that the impact of Japanese design is showing up in subtle ways such as "clean lines, open spaces, and neutral color palettes with bold splashes of color in select areas," according to NKBA. The association says oftentimes there will be "one strong anchor piece of Japanese origin" that designs are built around.
Whether you're shopping for a new home or thinking of remodeling your current home, remember that trends do change. However, those that tend to stick are the ones that combine pleasing looks with highly functional features.
Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
10 Things Every Remodeling Contract Should Include
The contract is a critical step in any remodeling project; it holds the job together and ensures that all parties agree to the same vision and scope.
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry spells out the following key elements that every remodeling contract should have:
1. The contractor's name, address, phone number, and license number.
2. Details on what the contractor will and will not do.
3. A list of materials for the project in your contract. This includes information about the size, color, model, brand name, and product.
4. The approximate start date and completion date.
5. All required plans. Study them carefully for accuracy. Insist that you approve them and that they are identified in your written contract before any work begins.
6. Written notice of your right to, without penalty, cancel a contract within three business days of signing it.
7. Financial terms, spelled out in a way that you understand. This includes the total price, payment schedule, and any cancellation penalty.
8. A binding arbitration clause, which you'll need in the event a disagreement occurs. Arbitration may enable you to resolve disputes without costly litigation.
9. Everything you've requested. Consider the scope of the project and make sure all items you've requested are included. If you do not see a specific item in the contract, consider it not included. Never sign an incomplete contract.
10. A warranty covering materials and workmanship for a minimum of one year. The warranty must be identified as either "full" or "limited." The name and address of the party who will honor the warranty (contractor, distributor, or manufacturer) must be identified. Make sure the time period for the warranty is specified.
Published: April 2009 REALTOR magazine
Reprinted from REALTOR® magazine with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry spells out the following key elements that every remodeling contract should have:
1. The contractor's name, address, phone number, and license number.
2. Details on what the contractor will and will not do.
3. A list of materials for the project in your contract. This includes information about the size, color, model, brand name, and product.
4. The approximate start date and completion date.
5. All required plans. Study them carefully for accuracy. Insist that you approve them and that they are identified in your written contract before any work begins.
6. Written notice of your right to, without penalty, cancel a contract within three business days of signing it.
7. Financial terms, spelled out in a way that you understand. This includes the total price, payment schedule, and any cancellation penalty.
8. A binding arbitration clause, which you'll need in the event a disagreement occurs. Arbitration may enable you to resolve disputes without costly litigation.
9. Everything you've requested. Consider the scope of the project and make sure all items you've requested are included. If you do not see a specific item in the contract, consider it not included. Never sign an incomplete contract.
10. A warranty covering materials and workmanship for a minimum of one year. The warranty must be identified as either "full" or "limited." The name and address of the party who will honor the warranty (contractor, distributor, or manufacturer) must be identified. Make sure the time period for the warranty is specified.
Published: April 2009 REALTOR magazine
Reprinted from REALTOR® magazine with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
Artists of Southport host new show
Claire Martin of Supply and Rebecca Pierre of Oak Island will showcase their newest original creations until Sept. 25 at the Franklin Square Gallery in Southport
Martin uses water media, especially acrylics in her paintings. Pierre is a potter who is also a writer and poet.
The works of more than 100 regional potters and painters will also be on display.
Franklin Square Gallery is located at 130 E. West St. behind Franklin Square Park. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. For details, call 457-5450 or go to www.franklinsquaregallery.com.
Full Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
Martin uses water media, especially acrylics in her paintings. Pierre is a potter who is also a writer and poet.
The works of more than 100 regional potters and painters will also be on display.
Franklin Square Gallery is located at 130 E. West St. behind Franklin Square Park. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. For details, call 457-5450 or go to www.franklinsquaregallery.com.
Full Article
Ken KeeganReal Estate Broker(910) 523-0903 mobileEmail Mewww.KenKeegan.com
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