AUG homes guide 14
AUGUST 2014
INSIDE THIS ISSUE - GREENER OPTIONS - TIPS TO WEATHER STORMS - RED FLAGS FOR HOME SHOPPERS AND MORE
A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
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HOMES GUIDE
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LYNCH REAL ESTATE DAN LYNCH
876 North Star Court, Tonganoxie, KS 66086 Cell (913) 481-6847 • (913) 369-3000 • Fax (913) 369-3002
1910 Cleveland Terr. $94,500 Super nice 3 BR 1.5 story on a large corner lot! Home has vinyl siding, newer thermal windows, & a brand new roof. Inside features a brand new kitchen with pantry, brand new spacious bathroom, breakfast room, & master BR on the main level. All BRs are large! Newer high efficient furnace!
315 Ottawa St. $53,500 Gorgeous 2 story close to everything! Home has recently been updated with all new laminate flooring throughout, new kitchen with new appliances, new thermal windows, new bathroom, and maintenance free vinyl siding. High efficient furnace/ac is newer! This is a supper clean home in great condition!
925 S 17th St. Leavenworth $219,000 Beautiful 3 BR ranch with a great open floor plan! Home features hardwood floors in kitchen/dining areas, vaulted ceilings in living room, great master suite with walkin closet & luxurious bath. Great secluded views off the covered deck looking into the woods! Pictures are similar to what home will look like finished.
27073 243rd Street $379,950 McLouth schools - Fabulous 3 bedroom maintenance free ranch home on 70 acres. Home features a great floor plan with large kitchen, pantry, formal dining room, fireplace in living room, master suite on main level, and a finished walkout basement! HUGE deck overlooks the property that features fenced 300x150 outdoor riding arena, multiple barns, gazebo, and 3 ponds! Abundant wildlife and hunters welcome!
35035 187th St. $219,950 School district Leavenworth, house info: Beautiful 4 bedroom ranch home on 3+ acres! This is a gorgeous home that features vaulted ceilings in kitchen, large living room, spacious master suite with private bath, screened in porch and pergola over the deck that overlooks the countryside! Basement offers a huge family room with wood burning stove, 4th bedroom, and full bath. This home has a lot to offer at a great price!
3717 N 155th St. $179,950 Gorgeous 4 bedroom home on a treed corner lot! Home features a huge master suite on the main level with large walk-in closet & private bath. 2nd master suite + 2 other bedrooms on the 2nd floor all have hardwood floors. Home is wrapped in maintenance free vinyl siding & newer thermal windows. Great location!
13529 185th St. $217,500 School district Basehor-Linwood . Fabulous 3 bedroom raised ranch located on a lake! This is an extremely well built home that features concrete board siding, hardwood floors through-out the main floor, and GORGEOUS kitchen with island and tons of cabinets. Living room has a 2 sided wood fireplace. Massive master suite has walk-in closet, access to covered deck, &a luxurious bath.
20870 Parallel Rd. $399,000 Gorgeous 4 BR Victorian 2 story has 20 acres!! Open floor plan w/family room, formal living & den/study on the main level. Huge wraparound porch! 5 acres is zoned commercial, the remaining 15 is residential per seller. Nice 103x50 garage/shop that is insulated & incl. 2 offices & 1/2 BA plus 62x40 hay barn. Lots of fruit trees on property.
11405 Kimball Ave. $214,500 Super SPACIOUS 3 car garage split entry. Home features family room and 4th bedroom in basement, granite counters, main floor laundry, open floor plan, large master suite w/walk-in closet & huge master bath W/JETTED TUB. LOADS OF Storage area in garage, Great space for great price!
21208 Dempsey Rd. $79,950 1.5 Story home on 10 acres m/l! Inside of home is in need of repair. Newer vinyl exterior. Property is being sold mainly for the land. Beautiful 10 acres of treed land on paved roads!
26902 251st St. $239,000 Large 3 bedroom earth contact on 16 acres! This is a great home with formal dining room, huge living room, sun room, and a partially finished full basement. Large 72x42 metal barn is perfect for the hobbyist or car enthusiast! Relax on the covered porch and watch beautiful sunsets!
3727 153rd Terr. $256,950 School district Basehor- Linwood house info: AWESOME Reverse 1.5 story home with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, and lots more. Open main floor with gorgeous entry, kitchen features island with granite counters and pantry, wood and tile flooring, main level laundry and much, much more!
20100 Evans Rd. $895,000 Exquisite estate home on 40 acres! Home features brick arched entry that leads to a huge kitchen with island and large walk-in pantry, and spacious great room with wet bar. Magnificent master retreat with private deck, and bath with jetted tub and steam shower! Relax in the private whirlpool tub room!
17980 Tonganoxie Dr. $449,950 Ravishing home on 11 acres! Stunning 4 BR 2 bathrooms, 4000+ sq. ft. home. 27x48 separate living quarters, HUGE Master Suite, awesome kitchen & formal dining room. This home is of the highest quality; entertain guests or just relax in this dream home! Property is fenced for horses and includes a loafing shed. Tonganoxie schools
15575 Cedar Ln. $521,450 Gorgeous 1.5 story overlooking Cedar Lake Estates! Custom built 4 BR 4.5 BA features dream kitchen w/HUGE walk-in pantry, island, solid surface counters, see through FP from breakfast room to great room, formal dining,HUGE master suite. Upstairs has 2 large bedrooms plus a loft sitting area. Walk-out bsmt. finished with beautiful wet bar, family/rec. room & 4th BR suite. Basehor schools
www.lynchresidential.com
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HOMES GUIDE
RICK HANSEN U.S. Army Ret.
547-1113
August 2014
Ask Me About My Military Appreciation Program...
LEAVENWORTH/LANSING
www.RickSellsHomes.com
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1536 Southern Hills Terrace $250,000 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths
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113 Rock Creek Loop $489,900 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath o in t nd P
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301 Summerset Dr., Weston, MO $150,000
1030 Wallis Lane $240,000
3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom
3 bedroom, 3.5 bath
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1221 Vilas $159,900
1946 Pottawatomie St. $134,900
750 Park Avenue $229,900
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath
4 bedroom, 3 bath
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath
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HOMES GUIDE
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1905 Edgewood Dr. • $389,900 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath
1909 Edgewood Dr. • $389,900 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath
Completion Soon! Call for your viewing! nds ege L r Nea
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3200 N. 109th Pl, KCK $300,000
603 Willow Ct $189,900
1816 Westwood $219,900
4809 S. 22nd St. $214,900
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom
4 bedroom, 3 bath
4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom
4 bedroom, 3 bath
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1304 S. Broadway St. $138,000
1044 Oxford Ct. $229,900
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath
3 bedroom, 3 bath
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1727 Rose St. $72,000 2 bedroom, 1 bath
1124 2nd Ave. $53,025 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath
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HOMES GUIDE
GREENER OPTIONS
August 2014
By Laura Firszt Networx.com
hether we like it or not, cutting the grass is a chore that needs to be done on a regular basis by anyone who has a lawn. But once you’re finished mowing, what do you do with all the grass clippings left behind? Bagging and binning them is wasteful, since it just adds to our country’s landfills (and has been prohibited in certain states, such as Georgia). Here are some alternative ideas for what to do with the by-product of your yard maintenance. NOTE: All these uses are suggested only for clippings from grass which has not been recently treated with either pesticides or herbicides.
W
Don’t bag those grass clippings – use them for mulch, compost and more
ANIMAL FODDER
Grass clippings are an excellent source of nutrition for farm animals such as sheep or cows, as well as herbivorous (plant-eating) household pets like rabbits and guinea pigs. They have the added advantage of being available for free, saving money on fodder. Any grass to be used for food should be cut by an exhaust-free mower, for example a cordless electric or a manual model. Keep the clippings dry and do not allow them to ferment before feeding your animals, since this may cause digestive disturbances.
COMPOST Green grass will enrich your compost heap with nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Clippings act as green matter when fresh and brown matter after they have been thoroughly dried. The recommended ratio for successful composting is 1 part green matter to 2 parts brown. If the clippings are too much for you to compost yourself, you can send them to the
FREEIMAGES.COM
regional composting facility instead.
LASAGNA GARDEN LAYER Use grass clippings as one of the layers of organic material in a multi-tiered lasagna garden, an innovative method of raised bed gardening as described by author Patricia Lanza. This type of easy care gardening reportedly requires no digging, tilling or weeding.
grass decomposes, it can be mixed into the soil to provide a source of enrichment. Although dedicated mulching mowers or mulching attachments for regular mowers are available, they are not really necessary. Just set your mower on high and make sure that the blades are sharp. Grass clippings may also be used to mulch the lawn itself; all you need to do is detach your mower’s collection bag and allow the clippings to remain where they fall.
block any weed seeds underneath from accessing the sun rays they need in order to germinate. This means that you do not need to use environmentally dangerous herbicides. (Before spreading the clippings, you are advised to pull out by the roots any weed plants that have already sprouted.) To make this method even more effective, place a thin layer of newspaper over the soil and then distribute the clippings on top.
WEED CONTROL
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FIRE LOGS
MULCH Reduce the amount of watering required by trees, bushes and other plants in your yard and garden. Spread a thin covering of dried grass clippings onto the earth around the plants. As the
Besides reducing your water bills, recycling grass clippings as mulch serves as a “green” form of weed control. Because the mulch covers the soil, it acts to
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has begun researching an inventive new means of utilizing grass clippings.
Mixed with plant-based binders such as waxes, the clippings are used to create artificial fire logs, sticks and pellets that are ecofriendly, containing no petroleum derivatives. These logs can even be enhanced with organic oils to produce attractive colors and scents when burned and … better yet! … to keep insect pests away from your campfire
Laura Firszt writes for Networx.com. This post originally appeared at www.networx.com/article/dont -bag-those-grass-clippings-us.
August 2014
HOMES GUIDE
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KATHY BARRY, GRI
REILLY & SONS
“Your House Coach” SPOUSE OF RETIRED MILITARY. CALL ME TODAY!!
113 Willow $229,000 Quality built custom home w/ beautiful hardwood floors & trim. Huge kitchen with breakfast bar, pantry, desk, lots of cabinetry and counter space, generously sized eat in kitchen area, formal dining room with hardwood floors, formal living room w/fireplace, family room with wet bar & fireplace. Big bedrooms. New Furnace and A/C. Private backyard. Rock Creek Subd
Call me at 913-240-6362
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Consistent Multi Million Dollar Seller • Coldwell Banker Presidents Circle 2900 10th St.
$89,000
3132 Lakeview Cir. $189,900
OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, JULY 27 12:30-2:00 Lots of space here 1776 sft per courthouse in this home with hardwood floors, living room, dining room with built ins, huge kitchen with eating area, butlers pantry, 2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms and family room that could be converted in to a master. Big deck and yard, fenced and detached storage shed. Basement for storage.
1309 South Broadway $288,900
Licensed in Kansas and Missouri
610 Pebblebeach $165,000
3 Bdrm, 2.5 ba plus bonus room Ranch w/ walkout basement & main floor laundry facing beautiful wooded lot. Main floor spacious master suite. Gleaming hardwood floors, new carpet, paint, light fixtures, knobs, new stove & dishwasher. All bedrooms have walk-in closets. Seller to give $3000 landscaping or closing cost allowance to buyer
2112 Alder
$215,000
Historical Home Absolutely amazing historical home with beautiful inlaid hardwood floors, decorative door knobs, and tall ceilings. Totally remodeled and updated while maintaining it’s historic beauty. Spacious fenced back yard. Must see the inside to appreciate the true beauty of this home.” Unbelievable home at unbelievable price in Lansing School Dist. 4 Bedroom, 3 bath with fenced yard. Bathrooms have tile. Spacious Great room with vaulted ceilings & ceiling fan. Huge kitchen with island & peninsula. Family room with gas fireplace. Master bedroom with walk in closet and separate bath. Double deck in back.
Open floor plan with beautiful staircase, vaulted ceiling, 5 BR, 3.5 baths, on privacy fenced lot. Oak cabinets, center island, light and spacious, lovely woodwork, walk in closets, separate shower & tub, timber-line roof, trek decking, stainless steel appliances, upgraded light fixtures, wrought iron spindles. Short Sale.
82761
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
Tips to weather the storms Storms and wet weather not only impact our life’s activities they can also have a disastrous effect on our homes, both inside and out. New technologies and products that help homeowners manage the damaging effects of weather with reduced stress are in high demand. YOUR SUMP PUMP IS CALLING: There are few things more devastating than water damage from flooding, which is a top worry of homeowners. New smarter systems not only pump large volumes of water, but alert
homeowners, in minutes, about rising water levels and power outages. For example, a microprocessor-controlled system called Sump Minder monitors conditions in a basement and connects to a standard phone line. DECKS THAT ENDURE: Homeowners can also feel more secure when dark clouds are looming with a deck that has beauty and character, but performs far beyond wood. New “capped” composites feature decking with an extra layer of protection.
FIX-UPS AFTER WINTER’S FURY: Take a peek under your front door jamb and you may see how harsh weather has deteriorated the wood or caused gaps that can raise your energy bills. “That is just one area of your home that may be compromised, which is why a tube of caulk can become your best friend,” said Jason Ringling, director of marketing at Red Devil Inc. No matter what type of weather or wet conditions you are dealing with, there are solutions on the market today to help win the battle against Mother Nature. — Brandpoint
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
DEAR MONTY
Understanding real Reader question: Do buyers pay a fee when buying real estate? – Sam D. Monty’s answer: The answer is, in some cases “yes.” Real estate companies and agents utilize a variety of philosophies to establish the fees they charge for their services. There are flat fees regardless the selling price, limited service fees, percentage of the sale price fees, variable rate fees and more. While all real estate fees are negotiable, not all agents and brokers negotiate fees. A seller paid fee calculated as a percentage of the selling price is the most common fee.
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The laws of agency In addition to the variety of philosophies utilized to establish fees, the relationship being between a principal and an agent has an impact. In real estate, a transaction most often begins between a real estate company and the seller (a principal). Initially, an agent contracting for the real estate company establishes a contract between the company and home seller. The company, not the agent, owns the listing contract. As a homebuyer, an agent can be hired to represent you before ever looking at homes. The “listing contract” defines the duties the seller is authorizing the
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agent to perform. The key principle in the law of agency is that the agent must always perform the assigned duties in the seller’s best interest. The law also says an agent must treat both parties fairly regardless of agency. The interests conflict In practice, the listing agent is not likely to produce a buyer (also a principal). When a prospect enters the picture the interests of the seller and the buyer may be in conflict. In most cases the showing agent procuring the buyer is either a different agent contracting with the same real estate company as the listing agent, or an agent contracting with a competing real estate company. This scenario comes to pass because most all real estate companies belong to a multiple listing system (MLS). The showing agent must provide notice to the prospect of their choice of agency options to deal with the seller of that home. In most states, there are fundamentally three options: 1. Showing agent remains a sub agent of the seller. 2. Showing agent becomes an agent of buyer. 3. Showing agent becomes a dual agent of both buyer and seller.
GARDEN GUIDE
Compact plants Locally Owned
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Compact plants that are perfect for today’s smaller gardens are a growing trend. A little trick to easily finding a plant that is more compact is to look for the words little, dwarf, baby, patio, knee-high or tiny in the variety name. Then read the tags or description to get the actual size of the mature plant. — National Garden Bureau
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HOMES GUIDE
Page 11 DECORATING TIP
estate ‘buyers agent’ fee
The timing concerning when a buyer must be given agency choices differs from state to state. Most states have approved language in the state forms that spell out the options of agency. Ask your agent for the specifics in your state.
Liable for a fee? If you sign a contract with an agent to enter into an agency relationship it could expose you to a fee. There are agents that practice strict buyer agency. That means they do not take listing agreements from sellers. There are agents to only take listings and do not work with buyers. Most agents work with both buyers and sellers. In many cases, your buyer agent’s fee will come in the form of a split commission paid to your agent by the list-
ing company, who collect the money under a listing contract with the seller. You need to understand what your obligation to pay fees under your buyer agent contract if the amount of the cobroke fee your agent collects falls short of the amount due your buyer agent under your contract. What if there is a shortfall? What if you find a home that is a for sale by owner (FSBO) or a home not on the market that you want to buy? The jury is still out Many practitioners believe strongly in buyer representation, many believe it overplayed. It may be one of real estates’ most quiet controversies. Agency law has been getting more attention over the past 20 years. Li-
cense law officials, real estate organizations and private interests have been promoting improvements in communicating the law. Both consumers and real estate practitioners have been slow to recognize or appreciate agency decisions in an increasingly complicated transaction, in part because agency law is hard to articulate. Richard Montgomery gives no-nonsense real estate advice to readers’ most pressing questions. You can ask him questions at DearMonty.com.
Create inviting room decor People are moving toward much more casual and interactive living, said Elissa Morgante, principal at Morgante Wilson Architects in Chicago. This translates into making all rooms in the home inviting and multifunctional, to foster togetherness in comfortable spaces that will actually be used. Practicality and individuality will dominate, with upholstery expected to bring presence and sophistication. — Brandpoint
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
Summer’s hottest ‘deck-cessories’ The backyard deck is a hot spot for summer living. Here are some ways to keep it lively for the season and beyond. Adding a punch of color can have a tremendous effect, starting with the deck itself and extending to furnishings, fabrics and plants. Waterproof stains protect from water damage and add color all in one formula. Solar lighting is an eco-friendly, energy-saving option that requires no wiring or cords, which makes installation quick and easy. You can really light up the night with twinkling LED lights on a deck railing or floating globe lamps spread throughout the yard. Repurposing and reusing items is not only a hot trend, but also a great way to save money. Try using old pallets to build an outdoor coffee table; turn mason jars into lanterns. All types of discarded items can be transformed into planters. A recent trend has been integrating a television into deck space. Perfect for watching baseball games or a late-night classic feature, televisions can be mounted to the ceiling, wall or planter pole with outdoor TV mounts. Fire pits, fire bowls and chimineas continue to be very popular for decks and patios. They’re all designed a little differently, but each allows homeowners to have small, cozy fires on the deck or patio. — Brandpoint
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August 2014
HOMES GUIDE
By Laura Firszt Networx.com “Builder grade” is a term used to refer to home construction materials. It is the lowest ranking, compared to quality, custom and ultra custom grades. If you live in a builder grade home, you may find that the finishings, although in good shape, are a bit too basic for your taste. How can you make your house a real home, one that meshes with your family’s style, without renovating on a large scale (and sending perfectly usable materials to the landfill)? A few inexpensive cosmetic updos can work wonders to upgrade basic builder grade. Kitchen The kitchen is the heart of most homes and the cabinets
A grade above are the largest item in this important room. Because they are so visible, cabinets tend to be the most complained-about builder grade feature. The simplest way to make basic oak or particle board kitchen cabinets more upscale and modern is by sanding and painting them. While you are in painting mode, you might want to revamp the counters as well. There are paints available that will give almost any type of countertop – laminate, tile, wood or solid surface – the glamorous look of granite. If you are up for a more enterprising scheme, consider removing the doors from several of the cabinets to create stylish
open shelving. A dingy kitchen can be brightened considerably in this way. (Just make sure that you organize your dishes and ornaments to design an attractive display.) Or take the opposite tack: build your kitchen cabinets up to the ceiling and cover the addition with crown molding. This not only produces an elegant, sophisticated look but also eliminates a dust-catching surface that is difficult to clean. Living and dining room Molding and wainscoting can also add a touch of class to living and dining room walls. This is an easy DIY project.
For extra oomph, apply wallpaper above, or beadboard below, your new wall trim. Building frames out of molding material is another quick fix that provides dramatic flair to your builder grade windows. Install built-in bookcases or cupboards for both beauty and practical storage space. The look of costly custom built-ins can be faked with inexpensive units from IKEA. Bathroom Builder grade bathrooms, especially mirrors and vanities, are another pet peeve among homeowners. Adding a frame and possibly some shelving
Page 13 helps to define the huge expanse of mirror typically found in standard construction. Vanities may be painted, similarly to kitchen cabinets. As an alternative, add trendy door inserts, such as glass or metal mesh. One popular trend is replacing the vanity altogether with a quirkily charming repurposed piece of furniture. Two great transformations are a dining room buffet or a vintage sewing machine table turned into a unique bathroom vanity. Don’t forget to repurpose the old vanity as well … perhaps as a potting bench? Changing hardware and light fixtures will also make a big difference in your bathroom and all through the house. You could purchase new ones, but why not recycle the old by spray painting them a more up-to-date shade?
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
Dear Monty: 13 red flags for home shoppers
Reader question: We just sold our home after struggling in the market. We never realized when we bought the house we had a built-in “objection” (food plant a couple of blocks away discharged an odor). We will buy another home and wondering if there are other “objections” to be alert for. – Aaron and Sherry P.
Monty’s answer: Most property, even with limitations, can be an excellent value if priced accordingly. Here is a list of some red flags that can influence the price a buyer will pay.
1. Future of the area - Are home values increasing or decreasing in the general vicinity? Be sure the neighborhood information you receive is accurate and current by checking with the source. 2. Local school system Although you may not have school-age children, the school’s reputation may affect demand for your home in the future. DEAR MONTY
The common red flags
3. Economic or other factors - Local or neighborhood economic factors like increased property taxes, labor strikes, plant layoffs, and more can affect a home’s value.
4. New subdivision - Ask the developer to see specific plans for the development of the remaining lots. Are the restrictive covenants recorded at the courthouse?
8. Over-investing - Homes with luxurious and extravagant decor or amenities, or homes that are larger than the other homes may limit the value of the investment.
5. Vacant land - Vacant land always presents the risk of the unknown. Regardless of the owner’s intent, that intent and zoning can change with time and circumstances.
9. Flooding - Property on a lake, river or flood plain is susceptible to flooding and recurrences of water damage, inconvenience and danger, all of which can limit marketability.
7. Floor plans and amenities - Oversized rooms and odd floor plans are viewed as inefficient use of space. A home with a bedroom entered through another bedroom is evaluated differently.
10. Additions - Older homes with new additions or remodeling may not cause concern but be aware of floor plans and over-investing.
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11. Poor construction or condition - Check the quality of building materials and workmanship like miter joints, door frames, mop boards, consistency in plastering, woodwork, and painting. 12. Extended market exposure - What is keeping people looking from buying it? Is it just price? Ask the agent for a copy of the property’s listing history for the past five years.
formaldehyde foam, radon gas, waste disposal sites and busy streets are known information. OK, so now what? Buyers should weigh the factors above carefully if one or more are present in the home. Sellers with a red flag should be alert not to overprice the home. Richard Montgomery gives no-nonsense real estate advice to readers’ most pressing questions. He is a real estate industry veteran who has championed industry reform for over a quarter century. You can ask him questions at DearMonty.com.
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EFFICIENT HOME
Efficient decor for your ceiling Ceiling fans not only help cool a room, but also are a great way to supplement the effectiveness of an air conditioning unit by creating further air flow. While older versions were often cumbersome and unattractive, it’s now easy to find fans that are effective and function as a beautiful addition to your decor. — Brandpoint
Lights off in summer Adjusting the pilot light on your gas stove and water heater can help lower utility bills and cut excess heat that raises the indoor temperature. If you have a gas fireplace, turn off the pilot light during summer. — Brandpoint
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HOMES GUIDE
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
INSIDE THIS ISSUE - GREENER OPTIONS - TIPS TO WEATHER STORMS - RED FLAGS FOR HOME SHOPPERS AND MORE
A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
August 2014
HOMES GUIDE
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LYNCH REAL ESTATE DAN LYNCH
876 North Star Court, Tonganoxie, KS 66086 Cell (913) 481-6847 • (913) 369-3000 • Fax (913) 369-3002
1910 Cleveland Terr. $94,500 Super nice 3 BR 1.5 story on a large corner lot! Home has vinyl siding, newer thermal windows, & a brand new roof. Inside features a brand new kitchen with pantry, brand new spacious bathroom, breakfast room, & master BR on the main level. All BRs are large! Newer high efficient furnace!
315 Ottawa St. $53,500 Gorgeous 2 story close to everything! Home has recently been updated with all new laminate flooring throughout, new kitchen with new appliances, new thermal windows, new bathroom, and maintenance free vinyl siding. High efficient furnace/ac is newer! This is a supper clean home in great condition!
925 S 17th St. Leavenworth $219,000 Beautiful 3 BR ranch with a great open floor plan! Home features hardwood floors in kitchen/dining areas, vaulted ceilings in living room, great master suite with walkin closet & luxurious bath. Great secluded views off the covered deck looking into the woods! Pictures are similar to what home will look like finished.
27073 243rd Street $379,950 McLouth schools - Fabulous 3 bedroom maintenance free ranch home on 70 acres. Home features a great floor plan with large kitchen, pantry, formal dining room, fireplace in living room, master suite on main level, and a finished walkout basement! HUGE deck overlooks the property that features fenced 300x150 outdoor riding arena, multiple barns, gazebo, and 3 ponds! Abundant wildlife and hunters welcome!
35035 187th St. $219,950 School district Leavenworth, house info: Beautiful 4 bedroom ranch home on 3+ acres! This is a gorgeous home that features vaulted ceilings in kitchen, large living room, spacious master suite with private bath, screened in porch and pergola over the deck that overlooks the countryside! Basement offers a huge family room with wood burning stove, 4th bedroom, and full bath. This home has a lot to offer at a great price!
3717 N 155th St. $179,950 Gorgeous 4 bedroom home on a treed corner lot! Home features a huge master suite on the main level with large walk-in closet & private bath. 2nd master suite + 2 other bedrooms on the 2nd floor all have hardwood floors. Home is wrapped in maintenance free vinyl siding & newer thermal windows. Great location!
13529 185th St. $217,500 School district Basehor-Linwood . Fabulous 3 bedroom raised ranch located on a lake! This is an extremely well built home that features concrete board siding, hardwood floors through-out the main floor, and GORGEOUS kitchen with island and tons of cabinets. Living room has a 2 sided wood fireplace. Massive master suite has walk-in closet, access to covered deck, &a luxurious bath.
20870 Parallel Rd. $399,000 Gorgeous 4 BR Victorian 2 story has 20 acres!! Open floor plan w/family room, formal living & den/study on the main level. Huge wraparound porch! 5 acres is zoned commercial, the remaining 15 is residential per seller. Nice 103x50 garage/shop that is insulated & incl. 2 offices & 1/2 BA plus 62x40 hay barn. Lots of fruit trees on property.
11405 Kimball Ave. $214,500 Super SPACIOUS 3 car garage split entry. Home features family room and 4th bedroom in basement, granite counters, main floor laundry, open floor plan, large master suite w/walk-in closet & huge master bath W/JETTED TUB. LOADS OF Storage area in garage, Great space for great price!
21208 Dempsey Rd. $79,950 1.5 Story home on 10 acres m/l! Inside of home is in need of repair. Newer vinyl exterior. Property is being sold mainly for the land. Beautiful 10 acres of treed land on paved roads!
26902 251st St. $239,000 Large 3 bedroom earth contact on 16 acres! This is a great home with formal dining room, huge living room, sun room, and a partially finished full basement. Large 72x42 metal barn is perfect for the hobbyist or car enthusiast! Relax on the covered porch and watch beautiful sunsets!
3727 153rd Terr. $256,950 School district Basehor- Linwood house info: AWESOME Reverse 1.5 story home with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, and lots more. Open main floor with gorgeous entry, kitchen features island with granite counters and pantry, wood and tile flooring, main level laundry and much, much more!
20100 Evans Rd. $895,000 Exquisite estate home on 40 acres! Home features brick arched entry that leads to a huge kitchen with island and large walk-in pantry, and spacious great room with wet bar. Magnificent master retreat with private deck, and bath with jetted tub and steam shower! Relax in the private whirlpool tub room!
17980 Tonganoxie Dr. $449,950 Ravishing home on 11 acres! Stunning 4 BR 2 bathrooms, 4000+ sq. ft. home. 27x48 separate living quarters, HUGE Master Suite, awesome kitchen & formal dining room. This home is of the highest quality; entertain guests or just relax in this dream home! Property is fenced for horses and includes a loafing shed. Tonganoxie schools
15575 Cedar Ln. $521,450 Gorgeous 1.5 story overlooking Cedar Lake Estates! Custom built 4 BR 4.5 BA features dream kitchen w/HUGE walk-in pantry, island, solid surface counters, see through FP from breakfast room to great room, formal dining,HUGE master suite. Upstairs has 2 large bedrooms plus a loft sitting area. Walk-out bsmt. finished with beautiful wet bar, family/rec. room & 4th BR suite. Basehor schools
www.lynchresidential.com
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HOMES GUIDE
RICK HANSEN U.S. Army Ret.
547-1113
August 2014
Ask Me About My Military Appreciation Program...
LEAVENWORTH/LANSING
www.RickSellsHomes.com
New
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1536 Southern Hills Terrace $250,000 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths
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113 Rock Creek Loop $489,900 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath o in t nd P
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301 Summerset Dr., Weston, MO $150,000
1030 Wallis Lane $240,000
3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom
3 bedroom, 3.5 bath
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1221 Vilas $159,900
1946 Pottawatomie St. $134,900
750 Park Avenue $229,900
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath
4 bedroom, 3 bath
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath
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HOMES GUIDE
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1905 Edgewood Dr. • $389,900 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath
1909 Edgewood Dr. • $389,900 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath
Completion Soon! Call for your viewing! nds ege L r Nea
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3200 N. 109th Pl, KCK $300,000
603 Willow Ct $189,900
1816 Westwood $219,900
4809 S. 22nd St. $214,900
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom
4 bedroom, 3 bath
4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom
4 bedroom, 3 bath
On
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1304 S. Broadway St. $138,000
1044 Oxford Ct. $229,900
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath
3 bedroom, 3 bath
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1727 Rose St. $72,000 2 bedroom, 1 bath
1124 2nd Ave. $53,025 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath
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HOMES GUIDE
GREENER OPTIONS
August 2014
By Laura Firszt Networx.com
hether we like it or not, cutting the grass is a chore that needs to be done on a regular basis by anyone who has a lawn. But once you’re finished mowing, what do you do with all the grass clippings left behind? Bagging and binning them is wasteful, since it just adds to our country’s landfills (and has been prohibited in certain states, such as Georgia). Here are some alternative ideas for what to do with the by-product of your yard maintenance. NOTE: All these uses are suggested only for clippings from grass which has not been recently treated with either pesticides or herbicides.
W
Don’t bag those grass clippings – use them for mulch, compost and more
ANIMAL FODDER
Grass clippings are an excellent source of nutrition for farm animals such as sheep or cows, as well as herbivorous (plant-eating) household pets like rabbits and guinea pigs. They have the added advantage of being available for free, saving money on fodder. Any grass to be used for food should be cut by an exhaust-free mower, for example a cordless electric or a manual model. Keep the clippings dry and do not allow them to ferment before feeding your animals, since this may cause digestive disturbances.
COMPOST Green grass will enrich your compost heap with nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Clippings act as green matter when fresh and brown matter after they have been thoroughly dried. The recommended ratio for successful composting is 1 part green matter to 2 parts brown. If the clippings are too much for you to compost yourself, you can send them to the
FREEIMAGES.COM
regional composting facility instead.
LASAGNA GARDEN LAYER Use grass clippings as one of the layers of organic material in a multi-tiered lasagna garden, an innovative method of raised bed gardening as described by author Patricia Lanza. This type of easy care gardening reportedly requires no digging, tilling or weeding.
grass decomposes, it can be mixed into the soil to provide a source of enrichment. Although dedicated mulching mowers or mulching attachments for regular mowers are available, they are not really necessary. Just set your mower on high and make sure that the blades are sharp. Grass clippings may also be used to mulch the lawn itself; all you need to do is detach your mower’s collection bag and allow the clippings to remain where they fall.
block any weed seeds underneath from accessing the sun rays they need in order to germinate. This means that you do not need to use environmentally dangerous herbicides. (Before spreading the clippings, you are advised to pull out by the roots any weed plants that have already sprouted.) To make this method even more effective, place a thin layer of newspaper over the soil and then distribute the clippings on top.
WEED CONTROL
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FIRE LOGS
MULCH Reduce the amount of watering required by trees, bushes and other plants in your yard and garden. Spread a thin covering of dried grass clippings onto the earth around the plants. As the
Besides reducing your water bills, recycling grass clippings as mulch serves as a “green” form of weed control. Because the mulch covers the soil, it acts to
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has begun researching an inventive new means of utilizing grass clippings.
Mixed with plant-based binders such as waxes, the clippings are used to create artificial fire logs, sticks and pellets that are ecofriendly, containing no petroleum derivatives. These logs can even be enhanced with organic oils to produce attractive colors and scents when burned and … better yet! … to keep insect pests away from your campfire
Laura Firszt writes for Networx.com. This post originally appeared at www.networx.com/article/dont -bag-those-grass-clippings-us.
August 2014
HOMES GUIDE
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KATHY BARRY, GRI
REILLY & SONS
“Your House Coach” SPOUSE OF RETIRED MILITARY. CALL ME TODAY!!
113 Willow $229,000 Quality built custom home w/ beautiful hardwood floors & trim. Huge kitchen with breakfast bar, pantry, desk, lots of cabinetry and counter space, generously sized eat in kitchen area, formal dining room with hardwood floors, formal living room w/fireplace, family room with wet bar & fireplace. Big bedrooms. New Furnace and A/C. Private backyard. Rock Creek Subd
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Consistent Multi Million Dollar Seller • Coldwell Banker Presidents Circle 2900 10th St.
$89,000
3132 Lakeview Cir. $189,900
OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, JULY 27 12:30-2:00 Lots of space here 1776 sft per courthouse in this home with hardwood floors, living room, dining room with built ins, huge kitchen with eating area, butlers pantry, 2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms and family room that could be converted in to a master. Big deck and yard, fenced and detached storage shed. Basement for storage.
1309 South Broadway $288,900
Licensed in Kansas and Missouri
610 Pebblebeach $165,000
3 Bdrm, 2.5 ba plus bonus room Ranch w/ walkout basement & main floor laundry facing beautiful wooded lot. Main floor spacious master suite. Gleaming hardwood floors, new carpet, paint, light fixtures, knobs, new stove & dishwasher. All bedrooms have walk-in closets. Seller to give $3000 landscaping or closing cost allowance to buyer
2112 Alder
$215,000
Historical Home Absolutely amazing historical home with beautiful inlaid hardwood floors, decorative door knobs, and tall ceilings. Totally remodeled and updated while maintaining it’s historic beauty. Spacious fenced back yard. Must see the inside to appreciate the true beauty of this home.” Unbelievable home at unbelievable price in Lansing School Dist. 4 Bedroom, 3 bath with fenced yard. Bathrooms have tile. Spacious Great room with vaulted ceilings & ceiling fan. Huge kitchen with island & peninsula. Family room with gas fireplace. Master bedroom with walk in closet and separate bath. Double deck in back.
Open floor plan with beautiful staircase, vaulted ceiling, 5 BR, 3.5 baths, on privacy fenced lot. Oak cabinets, center island, light and spacious, lovely woodwork, walk in closets, separate shower & tub, timber-line roof, trek decking, stainless steel appliances, upgraded light fixtures, wrought iron spindles. Short Sale.
82761
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
Tips to weather the storms Storms and wet weather not only impact our life’s activities they can also have a disastrous effect on our homes, both inside and out. New technologies and products that help homeowners manage the damaging effects of weather with reduced stress are in high demand. YOUR SUMP PUMP IS CALLING: There are few things more devastating than water damage from flooding, which is a top worry of homeowners. New smarter systems not only pump large volumes of water, but alert
homeowners, in minutes, about rising water levels and power outages. For example, a microprocessor-controlled system called Sump Minder monitors conditions in a basement and connects to a standard phone line. DECKS THAT ENDURE: Homeowners can also feel more secure when dark clouds are looming with a deck that has beauty and character, but performs far beyond wood. New “capped” composites feature decking with an extra layer of protection.
FIX-UPS AFTER WINTER’S FURY: Take a peek under your front door jamb and you may see how harsh weather has deteriorated the wood or caused gaps that can raise your energy bills. “That is just one area of your home that may be compromised, which is why a tube of caulk can become your best friend,” said Jason Ringling, director of marketing at Red Devil Inc. No matter what type of weather or wet conditions you are dealing with, there are solutions on the market today to help win the battle against Mother Nature. — Brandpoint
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August 2014
HOMES GUIDE
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
DEAR MONTY
Understanding real Reader question: Do buyers pay a fee when buying real estate? – Sam D. Monty’s answer: The answer is, in some cases “yes.” Real estate companies and agents utilize a variety of philosophies to establish the fees they charge for their services. There are flat fees regardless the selling price, limited service fees, percentage of the sale price fees, variable rate fees and more. While all real estate fees are negotiable, not all agents and brokers negotiate fees. A seller paid fee calculated as a percentage of the selling price is the most common fee.
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The laws of agency In addition to the variety of philosophies utilized to establish fees, the relationship being between a principal and an agent has an impact. In real estate, a transaction most often begins between a real estate company and the seller (a principal). Initially, an agent contracting for the real estate company establishes a contract between the company and home seller. The company, not the agent, owns the listing contract. As a homebuyer, an agent can be hired to represent you before ever looking at homes. The “listing contract” defines the duties the seller is authorizing the
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agent to perform. The key principle in the law of agency is that the agent must always perform the assigned duties in the seller’s best interest. The law also says an agent must treat both parties fairly regardless of agency. The interests conflict In practice, the listing agent is not likely to produce a buyer (also a principal). When a prospect enters the picture the interests of the seller and the buyer may be in conflict. In most cases the showing agent procuring the buyer is either a different agent contracting with the same real estate company as the listing agent, or an agent contracting with a competing real estate company. This scenario comes to pass because most all real estate companies belong to a multiple listing system (MLS). The showing agent must provide notice to the prospect of their choice of agency options to deal with the seller of that home. In most states, there are fundamentally three options: 1. Showing agent remains a sub agent of the seller. 2. Showing agent becomes an agent of buyer. 3. Showing agent becomes a dual agent of both buyer and seller.
GARDEN GUIDE
Compact plants Locally Owned
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Compact plants that are perfect for today’s smaller gardens are a growing trend. A little trick to easily finding a plant that is more compact is to look for the words little, dwarf, baby, patio, knee-high or tiny in the variety name. Then read the tags or description to get the actual size of the mature plant. — National Garden Bureau
August 2014
HOMES GUIDE
Page 11 DECORATING TIP
estate ‘buyers agent’ fee
The timing concerning when a buyer must be given agency choices differs from state to state. Most states have approved language in the state forms that spell out the options of agency. Ask your agent for the specifics in your state.
Liable for a fee? If you sign a contract with an agent to enter into an agency relationship it could expose you to a fee. There are agents that practice strict buyer agency. That means they do not take listing agreements from sellers. There are agents to only take listings and do not work with buyers. Most agents work with both buyers and sellers. In many cases, your buyer agent’s fee will come in the form of a split commission paid to your agent by the list-
ing company, who collect the money under a listing contract with the seller. You need to understand what your obligation to pay fees under your buyer agent contract if the amount of the cobroke fee your agent collects falls short of the amount due your buyer agent under your contract. What if there is a shortfall? What if you find a home that is a for sale by owner (FSBO) or a home not on the market that you want to buy? The jury is still out Many practitioners believe strongly in buyer representation, many believe it overplayed. It may be one of real estates’ most quiet controversies. Agency law has been getting more attention over the past 20 years. Li-
cense law officials, real estate organizations and private interests have been promoting improvements in communicating the law. Both consumers and real estate practitioners have been slow to recognize or appreciate agency decisions in an increasingly complicated transaction, in part because agency law is hard to articulate. Richard Montgomery gives no-nonsense real estate advice to readers’ most pressing questions. You can ask him questions at DearMonty.com.
Create inviting room decor People are moving toward much more casual and interactive living, said Elissa Morgante, principal at Morgante Wilson Architects in Chicago. This translates into making all rooms in the home inviting and multifunctional, to foster togetherness in comfortable spaces that will actually be used. Practicality and individuality will dominate, with upholstery expected to bring presence and sophistication. — Brandpoint
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
Summer’s hottest ‘deck-cessories’ The backyard deck is a hot spot for summer living. Here are some ways to keep it lively for the season and beyond. Adding a punch of color can have a tremendous effect, starting with the deck itself and extending to furnishings, fabrics and plants. Waterproof stains protect from water damage and add color all in one formula. Solar lighting is an eco-friendly, energy-saving option that requires no wiring or cords, which makes installation quick and easy. You can really light up the night with twinkling LED lights on a deck railing or floating globe lamps spread throughout the yard. Repurposing and reusing items is not only a hot trend, but also a great way to save money. Try using old pallets to build an outdoor coffee table; turn mason jars into lanterns. All types of discarded items can be transformed into planters. A recent trend has been integrating a television into deck space. Perfect for watching baseball games or a late-night classic feature, televisions can be mounted to the ceiling, wall or planter pole with outdoor TV mounts. Fire pits, fire bowls and chimineas continue to be very popular for decks and patios. They’re all designed a little differently, but each allows homeowners to have small, cozy fires on the deck or patio. — Brandpoint
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83042
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HOMES GUIDE
By Laura Firszt Networx.com “Builder grade” is a term used to refer to home construction materials. It is the lowest ranking, compared to quality, custom and ultra custom grades. If you live in a builder grade home, you may find that the finishings, although in good shape, are a bit too basic for your taste. How can you make your house a real home, one that meshes with your family’s style, without renovating on a large scale (and sending perfectly usable materials to the landfill)? A few inexpensive cosmetic updos can work wonders to upgrade basic builder grade. Kitchen The kitchen is the heart of most homes and the cabinets
A grade above are the largest item in this important room. Because they are so visible, cabinets tend to be the most complained-about builder grade feature. The simplest way to make basic oak or particle board kitchen cabinets more upscale and modern is by sanding and painting them. While you are in painting mode, you might want to revamp the counters as well. There are paints available that will give almost any type of countertop – laminate, tile, wood or solid surface – the glamorous look of granite. If you are up for a more enterprising scheme, consider removing the doors from several of the cabinets to create stylish
open shelving. A dingy kitchen can be brightened considerably in this way. (Just make sure that you organize your dishes and ornaments to design an attractive display.) Or take the opposite tack: build your kitchen cabinets up to the ceiling and cover the addition with crown molding. This not only produces an elegant, sophisticated look but also eliminates a dust-catching surface that is difficult to clean. Living and dining room Molding and wainscoting can also add a touch of class to living and dining room walls. This is an easy DIY project.
For extra oomph, apply wallpaper above, or beadboard below, your new wall trim. Building frames out of molding material is another quick fix that provides dramatic flair to your builder grade windows. Install built-in bookcases or cupboards for both beauty and practical storage space. The look of costly custom built-ins can be faked with inexpensive units from IKEA. Bathroom Builder grade bathrooms, especially mirrors and vanities, are another pet peeve among homeowners. Adding a frame and possibly some shelving
Page 13 helps to define the huge expanse of mirror typically found in standard construction. Vanities may be painted, similarly to kitchen cabinets. As an alternative, add trendy door inserts, such as glass or metal mesh. One popular trend is replacing the vanity altogether with a quirkily charming repurposed piece of furniture. Two great transformations are a dining room buffet or a vintage sewing machine table turned into a unique bathroom vanity. Don’t forget to repurpose the old vanity as well … perhaps as a potting bench? Changing hardware and light fixtures will also make a big difference in your bathroom and all through the house. You could purchase new ones, but why not recycle the old by spray painting them a more up-to-date shade?
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
Dear Monty: 13 red flags for home shoppers
Reader question: We just sold our home after struggling in the market. We never realized when we bought the house we had a built-in “objection” (food plant a couple of blocks away discharged an odor). We will buy another home and wondering if there are other “objections” to be alert for. – Aaron and Sherry P.
Monty’s answer: Most property, even with limitations, can be an excellent value if priced accordingly. Here is a list of some red flags that can influence the price a buyer will pay.
1. Future of the area - Are home values increasing or decreasing in the general vicinity? Be sure the neighborhood information you receive is accurate and current by checking with the source. 2. Local school system Although you may not have school-age children, the school’s reputation may affect demand for your home in the future. DEAR MONTY
The common red flags
3. Economic or other factors - Local or neighborhood economic factors like increased property taxes, labor strikes, plant layoffs, and more can affect a home’s value.
4. New subdivision - Ask the developer to see specific plans for the development of the remaining lots. Are the restrictive covenants recorded at the courthouse?
8. Over-investing - Homes with luxurious and extravagant decor or amenities, or homes that are larger than the other homes may limit the value of the investment.
5. Vacant land - Vacant land always presents the risk of the unknown. Regardless of the owner’s intent, that intent and zoning can change with time and circumstances.
9. Flooding - Property on a lake, river or flood plain is susceptible to flooding and recurrences of water damage, inconvenience and danger, all of which can limit marketability.
7. Floor plans and amenities - Oversized rooms and odd floor plans are viewed as inefficient use of space. A home with a bedroom entered through another bedroom is evaluated differently.
10. Additions - Older homes with new additions or remodeling may not cause concern but be aware of floor plans and over-investing.
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11. Poor construction or condition - Check the quality of building materials and workmanship like miter joints, door frames, mop boards, consistency in plastering, woodwork, and painting. 12. Extended market exposure - What is keeping people looking from buying it? Is it just price? Ask the agent for a copy of the property’s listing history for the past five years.
formaldehyde foam, radon gas, waste disposal sites and busy streets are known information. OK, so now what? Buyers should weigh the factors above carefully if one or more are present in the home. Sellers with a red flag should be alert not to overprice the home. Richard Montgomery gives no-nonsense real estate advice to readers’ most pressing questions. He is a real estate industry veteran who has championed industry reform for over a quarter century. You can ask him questions at DearMonty.com.
Page 15
EFFICIENT HOME
Efficient decor for your ceiling Ceiling fans not only help cool a room, but also are a great way to supplement the effectiveness of an air conditioning unit by creating further air flow. While older versions were often cumbersome and unattractive, it’s now easy to find fans that are effective and function as a beautiful addition to your decor. — Brandpoint
Lights off in summer Adjusting the pilot light on your gas stove and water heater can help lower utility bills and cut excess heat that raises the indoor temperature. If you have a gas fireplace, turn off the pilot light during summer. — Brandpoint
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SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE!
SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE!
13. Environmental concerns and hazards - Leaking underground storage tanks, asbestos, urea-
HOMES GUIDE
- Home-owned and operated - Serving the Leavenworth area (and only the Leavenworth area) since 1964 - we know your needs and want to serve you! - Guaranteed Installation within 24 hours with in-stock flooring
Wholesale Carpets Factory Direct 115A Delaware, Alley Entrance • Downtown Leavenworth 682-5909 9AM-5PM MONDAY-FRIDAY; SATURDAY 10AM-3PM WE SELL FOR LESS SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE!
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HOMES GUIDE
August 2014
