Selling a House? Don’t Overprice It

Selling a House? Don’t Overprice It

And remember where local prices are going with one market down ear over year thru June.

In case you are planning on doing some painting soon

Paint Like a Pro

Paint Perfection

A fresh coat of paint is the fastest, most economical way to spruce up any room in your home. Here are some simple guidelines to help you achieve results that will make any professional painter envious.

Pick your paint type – Water-soluble latex dries quickly, is easier to clean up, and emits fewer fumes. It is also less likely to fade and provides a breathable surface allowing moisture to escape. Oil based paints are trickier to apply, dry more slowly, and require mineral spirits for clean-up. However, they will provide a more durable finish. There are also specially-designed paints for kitchens and baths to resist mold, mildew, and humidity; they are worth the extra expense! That’s actually a good rule for any paint, consider paying a little more for better quality!
Choose the sheen – Flat, low-luster paints disguise flaws making them good for ceilings and low traffic areas. Glossier finishes form a smoother, water-resistant surface that is easy to wipe clean and stands up to moisture, making them a good choice for kitchens, trim, and high-traffic areas.
Test-drive the color – Buy a sample pot and apply 2 coats to a 3’ sq. of white foam board. Move the square around your room to study it at different times of the day and in varying light conditions. Once you decide on a color, purchase all your paint at the same time. (a gallon will cover about 400 sq ft) If you need more than 1 can, a good idea is to mix all cans together. Different cans could have subtle color variations that will become obvious on your walls. If applying 2 coats, only mix ½ of your paint for the first coat and mix the remaining paint before your second coat.
The right tools – For most jobs you will need a roller, brushes, blue painters’ tape, and a paint tray. Nylon and polyester bristles work best with latex paint, while natural bristles are the best choice for oil-based finishes. A 3/8”–1/2” nap roller suits most drywall.
Prep – Clear as much furniture from the room before you begin. Cover the floor and fixtures with drop cloths and remove outlet/switch covers. Fill holes and patch damaged spots with spackle. Wipe down walls and trim with a damp sponge before you paint.
Cut-in – Use a 2 ½” angled brush to paint the border of your work area. This will keep your roller from bumping against adjacent surfaces.
“Lay off” Method – After rolling an area, make a series of long vertical strokes down the full length of the wall, in the same direction. This will distribute wet paint in a thin, even layer.
Removing the tape – If you have used painter’s tape on your baseboards or trim, you’ll want to remove it the same day you paint. Run a putty knife along the edge at a 45-degree angle to “score” the paint. This will allow you to peel off your tape and not pull off the paint, move slowly and steadily.
Other tips –
- Paint an outlet cover and write the paint color/number on the back of the cover. You can take this along to the store when you need to match the color exactly!
- Store extra paint for “touch-ups” in an airtight glass jar (ex: mason jar). Cover the opening with plastic wrap before screwing the lid on and store in a cool, dry place.

Grab a brush, follow these tips, and enjoy great-looking, long-lasting results!

Buying a Home? How the Serenity Prayer May Help

Buying a Home? How the Serenity Prayer May Help

Mortgage Interest Rates: Where Are They Headed?

Mortgage Interest Rates: Where Are They Headed?

Help your kitchen without a trip to the bank

Your Kitchen- Decorate on a Dime!

Are you bored with your kitchen or selling your home and need a new look? Here are some great ideas that will help you decorate and spruce up your kitchen without breaking your bank account!

Wall Color – Change the wall color, choose a neutral shade such as gray or beige. A bright color tends to “date” a room while neutral shades stay fresh and give you a better building block for your other fabulous decorating ideas!
Rugs – Area rugs will add a splash of color and can cover an old floor. Rugs used under your table should be large enough to accommodate chairs that are fully pulled-out.
Slipcovers – Covers can be used to add holiday and seasonal charm to your kitchen. They will also help to soften the room and enhance the décor.
Drawer/Cabinet Pulls – There are so many patterns and textures available! You will easily find a design to compliment your kitchen style and they are a breeze to install!
Cookbooks – No budget for accessories? Use the cookbooks you already own to create an interesting display. Group them in different, interesting configurations with some standing and some lying down or align them in graduating heights.
Touch of outdoors – Hang a plant from a bare ceiling corner to add warmth and life to the room. Plants will provide points of interest. Silk plants could work too, but take the time to shop around and choose ones that look realistic!
Accessorize – A few carefully placed accessories can take a room from dull to dramatic! Choose a theme and give your kitchen a new look by replacing just a few key items, like dish towels, canister sets, salt and pepper shakers, and pot holders.
Border – A wallpaper border is easy to install and fairly inexpensive. They can be used to add color at the top of the walls, to break up a tall, drab wall in the middle, or try a new twist and place the border underneath the cabinets!
Check with the pros – Books, magazines, television, and the internet are all great resources for endless decorating ideas!! Find a design you really like and have fun trying to re-create the look in your own room!
Big space or small space, big budget or small budget; it doesn’t matter what you start with. As long as you bring your creativity, and enthusiasm; you can end up with the charming, cozy kitchen you’ve always wanted!

Buying a Home? How the Serenity Prayer May Help

Buying a Home? How the Serenity Prayer May Help

Buying a House? 3 Reasons to Do it Now!

Buying a House? 3 Reasons to Do it Now!