Halifax Real Estate Blog

Ten Home Improvement Projects That Add Value

2011-07-14T16:12:36-03:00

These helpful tips come from the HGTV.ca's Editorial Team.

Can't stand your scary, cobwebby basement one more minute? Is it past time to replace the pink-and-aqua tiles and porcelain in the master bath? Maybe you're sick of the curling, chipped vinyl floor, the tacky cabinets, and cramped layout of your kitchen. Perhaps you're trying to convince your partner that the siding is sad and stucco would be stupendous. But your partner wants to build a deck…

What are the best home improvement projects to undertake? It depends on your goals and plans. If you're trying to sell your property soon for the highest possible price, your priorities are likely somewhat different than if you're planning to stay for a few years and want to improve your family's quality of life.

If you're selling, focus on the renovations a buyer would be most likely to undertake, not those you're most itching to do. You might dream of putting French doors and a Juliet balcony in the master bedroom, but if your kitchen is twenty-five years old—or even fifteen—you're better off directing your home improvement dollars there. Buyers generally focus on kitchen and bathroom quality, along with overall living and storage space. Kitchen and bathroom remodelling projects are among the most disruptive undertakings, so buyers especially appreciate upgraded fixtures, appliances and décor in these rooms.

Here are ten worthwhile home improvement projects and the percentage of cost typically recouped at resale (in a seller's market):

1. Painting
If you're only going to do one thing, paint. Interior/exterior painting is one of the very few improvements on which you are likely to realize a profit—as long as you choose tasteful, current, neutral colours and the work is very professional. Payback: As much as 300%

2. Kitchen remodelling
Typically one of the most expensive improvement projects, and you can quickly run up a huge bill. Careful planning and shopping will help minimize costs here. When remodelling the kitchen, remember to keep the project in line with the style and quality of the rest of the house and neighbourhood. Just as there's no point in putting a pricey granite countertop on dated-looking 1970s cabinets, there's no point in installing a $50,000 kitchen in a $200,000 house. Payback: 68-120%.

3. Bathroom addition
If your home has only one bathroom and is meant to house more than two people, a bathroom addition should be one of your top priorities. If most homes in your neighbourhood have two, three or more bathrooms, and yours has just one or one-and-a-half, you will definitely increase your property value by adding a bath. Payback: 80-130%.

4. Bathroom remodelling
Upgrading a pokey bathroom will enhance the value of your home and add to your daily comfort and enjoyment. White porcelain is the safe, timeless choice here. Payback: 65-120%.

5. Finishing unfinished space
Whether it's an attic or a basement, by finishing these spaces you add significant value to your home, increasing square footage without having to build. Payback: 50-90%.

6. Window/door replacement
If your windows or doors are wasting energy or simply decrepit-looking, replacements can be an excellent use of your home improvement dollars. Stick to standard styles; odd shapes and highly customized arrangements do little for resale value. Payback: 50-90%.

7. Deck addition/improvement/expansion
Decks are one of the few exterior improvements with any significant return, apart from painting. Payback: 65-90%.

8. Additions of bedrooms, family rooms, sunrooms, conservatories, garages, etc.
Increasing square footage is almost always an excellent use of remodelling dollars, but don't expand your home so much that there's little outdoor space left. Payback: 50-83%.

9. Home office remodelling
This project is becoming increasingly popular. Be sure to plan for plenty of electrical and cable outlets to accommodate all the required machines and gadgets. Payback: 60-73%.

10. Energy efficiency retrofits
If your primary concern is return on investment, proceed with caution. Some retrofits, like better insulation and high-efficiency furnaces, pay for themselves relatively quickly. Others, like solar panels, heat recovery ventilators, and tankless water heaters, may take years to pay for themselves. Payback: Highly variable.

Two projects that are unlikely to pay off at resale: swimming pools (which may even adversely affect your property value) and excessive landscaping (buyers may admire it but few will pay extra tens of thousands even if that's what you spent to improve the grounds). And remember that badly done remodelling/renovation projects will cost you in two ways. You won't pay just for labour and materials; you'll pay when buyers see a project that has to be redone.

---------------------------

If you have questions, or want advice on Buying or Selling a home, get in touch with The Bagogloo Team of RE/MAX nova by email at info@halifaxmetrohomes.com or call 902-830-9006.

---------------------------

Top 10 Splurges for Summer

2011-06-27T15:04:35-03:00

By: Chantel Simmons

Create a chic outdoor oasis with these backyard indulgences that you won’t know how you lived without! HGTV's Chantel Simmons will show you how you can heat your summer up.

1. Gazebo
No matter how much – or how little – space you have, a gazebo can create an instant outdoor “room”, ideal for reading, relaxing or dining. If you love to host parties but worry that you can’t accommodate guests inside if it rains, a gazebo erases that problem by sheltering guests (and food!) from a sudden downpour. When purchasing, think about your outdoor theme — is it rustic, Victorian or modern? — then choose the gazebo in a style that matches, such as cedar with shingles or a wrought-iron frame with glass inserts.
Don’t want to shade your entire deck all the time? Opt for a sun tent instead; it won’t save you from torrential rains, but will help with light showers and offer respite from the sun and mosquitos.

2. Patio Storage Bench
Forget stashing those patio furniture cushions in your front hall closet or bathtub. The latest patio storage benches are not just functional, but fashionable too, providing extra seating in a pinch. Look for a bench that resembles a loveseat — but be sure it’s weather resistant poly construction with faux brick, wood finish or pre-stained and treated pine, which will withstand the elements. Storage should be around 50 gallons to hold cushions, lanterns, candles and kids’ toys.

3. Heat Things Up
Extend your outdoor season by warming up your outdoor space with a freestanding or tabletop patio heater. The latest heaters are available in a variety of sizes, heights and finishes. To get the best use from your heater, look for one with copper or stainless steel finish (which will last longer than painted versions), adjustable heat output, safety auto shutoff and a weighted base. Short on space? Look for a wall-mount patio heater instead.

4. Water Feature
Even if you have a small space or condo terrace, a water feature adds interest and instant relaxation to an outdoor space, and can even cover up an area in need of repair. Against fencing, brick or siding, opt for a wall fountain. For the middle of a yard or deck, add a bird bath, low-rise reflection pool or multi-tiered Vienna fountain. If you have kids, consider a small fish pond. Opt for durable resin, which will survive the winter, as opposed to plastic.

5. Cooking Centre
If you’re constantly running in and out of the kitchen when guests are over, it’s time to splurge on full-service cooking centre. The latest outdoor kitchens can include an island (with stools on one side for extra seating and a counter for prep work), cupboards for storing dishes and even a mini-fridge for drinks or salads. Don’t have the space or money? Opt for the latest grills, which include double-access doors (to better contain variances in temperature), warming drawers and side burners. Look for weather-resistant fiberglass or stainless steel.

6. Patio Set
If your patio furniture is chipped, rusted or stained, it’s time to upgrade to a set that you’ll look forward to relaxing on. The latest “wicker-style” sets are made of sturdy resin, so they’ll survive the winter without needing to be stored indoors. Don’t forget to add glass-topped side tables, lounges, sofas and off-side umbrellas (with a sturdy cast-iron stand) to the mix.

7. Deck it Out
Cover up discoloured wood, brick, asphalt, gravel or unsightly concrete with modular wood decking tiles. A “deck in a box,” these tiles are easy to apply and give the appearance of an authentic solid hardwood deck flooring – without the cost or hours of labour. Or, cover any surface with epoxy flooring, a floor coating that blends epoxy with stone aggregate to resemble natural stone in any hue.

8. Outdoor Rug
An outdoor rug instantly turns your deck into a living space. While it may seem impractical, the latest rugs are actually made from polypropylene (to withstand the elements), are reversible and can cover up stains, weathered areas or spots in need of repair.

9. Throw Cushions
Seemingly decadent, throw cushions are the perfect splurge when you can’t afford to update your patio furniture or want to pull together your new outdoor space. Choose polyester with quick-drying foam or polyfilling and they’ll hold up against spills, showers and sun (though you should store them in a bin overnight) and will instantly make even the shoddiest and outdated plastic lawn chairs look pretty and comfy.

10. Accessorize
Just like a great pair of shoes can take your outfit from average to amazing, the right outdoor accessories can make your space an oasis. Instead of paper napkins and plates, opt for linen and china – stock up on inexpensive white place settings that look clean and classic yet if they break can be replaced easily. Bamboo placemats will stay in place despite wind and give an upscale appearance to even a picnic table. A copper party tub replaces tacky plastic coolers for drinks and mini solar or battery-operated lanterns staked in gardens and planter boxes will add tranquil mood lighting to your space.

---------------------------

If you have questions, or want advice on Buying or Selling a home, get in touch with The Bagogloo Team of RE/MAX nova by email at info@halifaxmetrohomes.com or call 902-830-9006.

---------------------------

Happy Hour with The Bagogloo Team - Friday June 24, 2011 at The Halifax Club

2011-06-24T11:20:37-03:00

---------------------------

If you have questions, or want advice on Buying or Selling a home, get in touch with The Bagogloo Team of RE/MAX nova by email at info@halifaxmetrohomes.com or call 902-830-9006.

---------------------------

Halifax and Dartmouth Real Estate Map - June 12, 2011

2011-06-12T09:00:00-03:00

Halifax Real Estate Map - Current Listings in the Halifax Area

View Halifax Area Real Estate in a larger map

---------------------------

Decorating Your Cottage

2011-06-06T09:00:00-03:00

The cottage of today reflects a sensibility that sees rustic moving toward refined and shabby embracing chic. Whatever your inherent style is, your cottage is your getaway home. It should welcome with an air of casual serenity. HGTV.ca offers 10 tips to help you create a refreshing weekend retreat.

Turn the Inside Out. Enjoying outdoor cottage living doesn’t mean sacrificing the comfort, style and modern conveniences we enjoy indoors. Now, more than ever, there are endless possibilities for outdoor furnishings and accessories. Try slip covering in weather-resistant fabrics, or utilizing attractive pillows/cushions as an inexpensive way of breathing life into your old patio set. Ensuring outdoor fabrics/colours compliment interior furnishings creates smooth transition from inside to out, extending your living space.
…And the Outside In. Highlight external elements indoors. If rocks feature heavily in your outdoor space, place river stones in attractive glass containers filled with water or display them in simple bowls. If your cottage is nestled in a wooded area, gather fern fronds which can be pressed and framed, or display antique botanical prints.
Simplify, Simplify, Simplify. In our extraordinarily busy world, we are continually reminded that clearing clutter is akin to clearing the mind. Because the cottage is your getaway, it is imperative to keep clutter to a minimum. Look into unobtrusive storage options; investigate the powers of Feng Shui; and ensure your colour scheme and fabrics harmonize to create a peaceful environment.
Green-Up Your Space. Plants and natural elements inject life and soften edges. Take care not to clutter your space with them and choose hardy plants that will survive when you’re away.
Colour Me…Serenity Now! Create a cottage colour scheme that spells R.E.L.A.X. Stick to a palette with two or three tranquil colours derived from nature. If you’re near a beach, choose soothing blues, greys and sandy beige tones. If you’re nestled in the woods, warm earth tones are ideal. And, the ever-popular ‘all white’ theme creates a crisp, airy atmosphere ideal for cottage decor.
Mix’n’Match (But Mostly Match). Most cottages seem to be a repository for worn furnishings. Creating an attractive mélange from what is essentially a mish-mash can be challenging, but charm and sophistication can be arrived at with the right touch. After choosing a colour scheme, source out paints and fabrics and coordinate furnishings by re-upholstering/slip-covering, changing paint/patina and, of course, accessorizing.
Establish A Theme. A decor theme brings life to a tired setting. With a theme established, the eye will become attuned to what fits and will edit out what doesn’t. Consider the aforementioned ‘all white’; a beach or nautical theme; “shabby chic”, Canadiana, etc. Or simply pick up colours and textures from a favourite artwork or object.
Let There Be Light. Whether outside or in, lighting is a practical element that also creates warmth and atmosphere. Cottage lighting can include lanterns and candles in addition to functional indoor lighting and atmospheric garden lights. Whatever you choose, ensure adequate lighting for your needs, as well as protection from insects through use of screens and repellant products.
Define An Outdoor Entertaining Space. Because much of cottage life involves outdoor entertaining, it is important to have an inviting gathering space. Alongside outdoor furnishings consider using plants, rocks and natural features to define an outdoor ‘living room’. Consider an outdoor fireplace as an alternative to the standard campfire or barbeque pit and create a cozy sheltered area with either an umbrella or trellis/vine effect.
Storage. Appropriate and attractive storage for outdoor items is a must. In addition to outdoor storage, consider creating an unobtrusive interior space with hooks for beach towels, shelving for beach toys/accessories, and attractive containers for insect-repellent/suntan lotion, etc.

---------------------------

If you have questions, or want advice on Buying or Selling a home, get in touch with The Bagogloo Team of RE/MAX nova by email at info@halifaxmetrohomes.com or call 902-830-9006.

---------------------------

Curbside Give Away Weekend

2011-05-31T09:00:00-03:00

It’s time to Reduce your home’s clutter; give someone the chance to Reuse things you no longer need, by Recycling your clean and working goods!

HRM is calling on residents to participate in our second Curbside Give Away Weekend June 11 and 12. Help discover the “Hidden Treasures” in your neighbourhood, community, and city. It’s another way to RETHINK GARBAGE and protect our most precious treasure – our environment.

What great way to clear out outgrown and underused household items - things that might be exactly what others are in looking for.

The aim of this weekend event is to reduce the amount of garbage ending up in HRM’s landfill by diverting unwanted items to be re-used! Reusing and Recycling household items instead of discarding them reduces pressures on our municipal facilities, and is a great way to not only get rid of your underused items, but to find some great treasures of your own!

Click here for more information!

---------------------------

If you have questions, or want advice on Buying or Selling a home, get in touch with The Bagogloo Team of RE/MAX nova by email at info@halifaxmetrohomes.com or call 902-830-9006.

---------------------------

Halifax and Dartmouth Real Estate Map - May 24, 2011

2011-05-24T15:13:45-03:00

Halifax Real Estate Map - Current Listings in the Halifax Area

View Halifax Area Real Estate in a larger map

---------------------------

Local Event - Victoria Jubilee Bandstand Renovation Celebration

2011-05-20T15:14:15-03:00

Mayor Peter Kelly and Members of Halifax Regional Council invite you to celebrate the historic renovation of the Victoria Jubilee bandstand in the Public Gardens.

Where: Halifax Public Gardens
When: Victoria Day - Monday, May 23, 2011

from 5:30 - 7:30 pm

Rain Date: Sunday, May 29, 2011 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm

For more information click here!

---------------------------

If you have questions, or want advice on Buying or Selling a home, get in touch with The Bagogloo Team of RE/MAX nova by email at info@halifaxmetrohomes.com or call 902-830-9006.

---------------------------

Take a Virtual Tour of 146 Seligs Road!

2011-05-11T14:44:52-03:00

---------------------------

If you have questions, or want advice on Buying or Selling a home, get in touch with The Bagogloo Team of RE/MAX nova by email at info@halifaxmetrohomes.com or call 902-830-9006.

---------------------------

Getting your Yard Ready for Spring

2011-05-02T15:34:58-03:00

The start of spring is a joyous time; the soil starts to come alive from its long winter sleep! Ehow.com provides some great tips to make your lawn lush and green for spring and summer.

Pick up all sticks and debris that blew into your yard during winter. Rake all the leaves that blew against the house, sheds, fences, and other structures.

Rake your lawn. It is very important to rake away the thatch that has built up on your lawn to give way for new growth. The best way to get up the thatch (excess grass clippings that build-up above the soil) is to use a de-thatching rake. If you do not have a specialty rake you can use a stiff-tined rake or attach a de-thatching blade to your lawn mower.

Feed your lawn with a slow-release fertilizer. It works well because it gives the lawn nutrients but doesn't push the grass to grow sooner than it is ready.

Make sure to take care of lawn mower maintenance. First, inspect the lawn mower to make sure all the nuts and bolts are secure. Check the spark plugs, if they are showing wear they will need to be changed. While the spark plugs are out it is also a good time to remove the lawnmower blade. Use a file to sharpen the blade. Make sure to run the file along the same angle as the blade. Inspect the oil, if it is low, old, or dirty, properly dispose of it and replace it with new oil.

---------------------------