Attitude of gratitude

Our community is strong thanks to the tireless efforts of so many people. This holiday season, we would like to celebrate the work of the following groups, some of which were introduced by our clients. If you are looking for a place to send some extra love this year, then one of these organizations could use it. And thank you!

Simple bathroom makeovers!

Many homeowners aren’t familiar with the transformative effect of tile reglazing. It is a relatively low-cost, low-hassle option to spruce up a dated bathroom. Most buyers are highly influenced by their impressions of kitchens and bathrooms, whether they know it or not. So investing in some bathroom updates can help boost your sales price significantly.

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Though there are homebuyers that love the retro colored tiles, simple white reaches a broader audience…

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And again…

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Even simply reglazing over a border color can go a long way in making a bathroom look updated.

First-Time Homebuyers Mistakes to Avoid

The Spring real estate season is already upon us and inventory is short in the single family home market. Boost your chances of getting a successful contract by heeding the tips in this 2018 Washington Post article. It's so important to know the process, be ready, and get pre-approved for financing by a good local lender who can be your advocate, before even beginning the search. Please contact us for a no-obligation discussion about how to successfully buy a home.

The Dos and Don'ts of Creating a Monochromatic Room

Follow these dos and don’ts when creating a monochromatic room.

Do start with a base color

Pick out the primary tone and how it’ll be applied. 

Don’t feel like you have to stick to neutral tones

Be bold. The look pops with ambitious shades.

Do use a variety of shades

Use different shades that complement each other to add depth. 

Don’t overdecorate

Keep the decor uncluttered so that the room doesn’t feel overwhelming.

Do focus on layers

Introducing different textures and patterns will provide layers that allow the room to flow.

Don’t be afraid to break the color scheme

You can still have a surprising accent piece that creates a bit of contrast.

5 Home Splurges Worth the Cost

The idea of a splurge means different things to different people, depending, in great measure, on how much “discretionary income” you have to spend. But while the things we choose to splurge on are a matter of choice, there are some luxury creature comforts that can make nearly everyone happier

When it comes to your home, decorators say splurging on items that look better, last longer, and/or increase our personal comfort are often worth more than they cost.

  • Luxury Linens – A good French linen duvet set, which will set you back about $250, is an heirloom-quality splurge that will get softer as you use it, is strong enough to withstand time and will keep you cooler in summer and warmer in winter. The same is true for expensive Egyptian sheets, which wear better than their cheaper cousins and have a lovely, silken feel.

  • Turkish Cotton Towels – Aside from lending a luxurious, spa-like feel to your bathroom, these hefty towels are more absorbent and dry faster than ordinary towels. At $50 or $60 apiece, they are sure to increase your bath time enjoyment.

  • Wireless Speakers – They will let you bring your favorite podcast into the kitchen while you cook, your soothing white noise to the bedroom nightstand or music to almost anywhere else you want to hear it in your home. The sleekest versions may cost up to $400, but their versatility and low profile make them a worthwhile splurge.

  • A Le Creuset French Oven – A classic among devoted cooks, these porcelain-coated Dutch ovens have incredible heat retention and hold up against acids and stains as you turn out delectable stews, soups and more. They can cost up to $350, but you may be able to reduce your splurge if you prowl a few good discount home goods stores.

  • A Teak Cutting Board – If you love to cook, you should have had one years ago. At about $88, a good teak board is easier on knives, beautiful to look at and will last longer than any plastic cutting board.

5 Ideas for Remodeling Your Basement

Looking to update your basement? Here are a few ideas…

Home Theater

Basements are the perfect place to design the home theater of your dreams.

Fitness Area

A fitness area in your basement is rather simple, with the most important features being mirrored walls and a durable floor.

Relaxing Spa

A place to unwind at the end of the day, a home spa is a luxury you’re sure to appreciate.

Wine Cellar

The ability to store bottles collected from around the world under ideal conditions will set your house apart.

Home Office

The basement might be the best place to put a designated workspace away from the rest of the house.