Home Warranty Vs Home Insurance

When purchasing a new home, it’s important to do in-depth research on all facets of the homebuying process. One thing you’ll need to understand is how to best protect yourself and your investment if anything were to go wrong. Check out the information on home insurance versus home warranty below to educate yourself on your options.

Home Insurance

Homeowners insurance pays for any accidental damages and loss that are caused by fire, lightning strikes, windstorms, and hail, however, damage from earthquakes and floods is typically not covered. It also covers the replacement of personal property in case of theft or damage and liability if a person were to get injured in your home or on your property. According to American Home Shield, the average annual cost of a homeowner's insurance policy ranges between $300 and $1,000, and the bank usually asks you to obtain a policy before the mortgage is issued. Make sure to keep in mind that each type of coverage in the policy is subject to a limit and, in most cases, you will have to pay a deductible.

Home Warranty

A home warranty is designed to cover the cost of repairs and replacements of larger appliances and crucial systems in your home that may fail or break due to age and wear and tear. This includes but isn’t limited to HVAC, electrical, or plumbing components, kitchen appliances, and your washer and dryer. With a home warranty, you are required to pay premiums year-round, even if you do not use it, and it won’t cover damages if appliances were not maintained properly or if the damage is from a fire or other disaster.

The bottom-line difference with regards to warranty vs. insurance is that insurance covers unexpected events that lead to damage, while warranties cover events that are somewhat expected, such as the aging and ultimate breakdown of appliances and systems.

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Remodeling A Home

Have you been dreaming of a remodeled home?  Is your kitchen outdated, your landscaping overgrown, or unusable basement space?  The first thing to consider is how you are going to finance it.  Here are the most common options to make your dreams become a reality.

CASH

Paying cash is the most straightforward option, just save enough money until you have enough for the expense.  This will limit spending outside your budget; however, it can also extend your timeline.

MORTGAGE REFINANCE

If you've been making payments on your home for a few years and your interest rate is higher than current market rates, you may be eligible for a mortgage refinance, reducing your payments and freeing up some of your money.

CASH OUT-REFINANCE

You can tap into your home equity and borrow up to 80% of your home's value to pay off your current mortgage plus take out more cash to cover the renovations.  This option is encouraged only when you are making improvements that will increase the value of your home, as it can add a lot of interest and fees.  

HOME EQUITY

Getting a home equity line of credit allows you to borrow money against the value of your home.  You receive up to 80% of the value of your home, minus the amount of your loan.

RETIREMENT FUNDS

Homeowners can consider pulling money from a 401k or IRA account, even though they aren't specifically meant to cover a home renovation.  This option might incur additional penalties or tax payments, but maybe worth it when making improvements that will benefit them financially in the long run.  

If remodeling is not what you want to do and buying a new home or a resale home is better for you then give me a call.  I'm happy to help you find the home that fits your lifestyle and dreams.

Moving To Another State Checklist

Are you moving to another state and don't know where to start?  Here is a checklist that might help:

1.  Find a Realtor
Contact a local realtor  (or me) to help you find an agent in your new location.  By doing this, your referring agent will:

• Find an agent to suit your personality
• Find an agent who is ethical, knowledgeable, and experienced 
• Find an agent who knows the area
• Find an agent who specializes in the niche you are interested in ie: patio homes, neighborhood, seniors, condo's, first time home buyer, etc

2.  Secure Your Living Arrangements

You should never move without having a home to go to first.  If you can't visit the state you are moving to, do so online and with your realtor.  It's very important you thoroughly research the cost of living, the safety and culture of the neighborhood as well as realistic expectations.

3.  Contact Utility Companies

Contact your service providers early, and let them know you want to transfer your utilities to a new address.  Schedule a date, preferably the day after you move in, for installation or activation.

Having internet, TV, and a security system will greatly help you ease into your new environment.

4.  Change Your Mailing Address - Before You Move

You'll want to change your address with the Post Office before you leave, so your financial records and important documents aren't being delivered to your old address.

• Immediately start forwarding your mail if no one is at your new address
• You can rent a P.O. Box in your new location

5.  Pack the Essentials

With the high cost of moving, it's best to save money by packing items you know are essential and valuable to you.  When packing, remember to:

• Label boxes by room instead of listing what is inside 
• Create a video for your inventory
• Clean out the refrigerator
• Pack important documents and identification cards to keep with you

6.  Moving Day

You will need some cash and essentials for moving day.  

When you move everything into your new house, you might need a little time to unwind before you start unpacking.  Therefore, having a day's worth of essential items in an overnight back will benefit you.

7.  Establish Residency for Legal Reasons

Once you've moved in, you'll need to establish legal domicile for tax and voting purposes.  Every state has different rules and requirements for residency, but most states ask that you live in the state for at least 6 months.   Other things you'll be expected to have to establish residency are:

• A real street address, not a P.O. Box
• Relinquished residency in your previous state
• Bank account in the new state
• Important documents transferred to the new address
• Taxes paid in the new state

8.  Update Your Driver's License and Vehicle Registration

We all know how much of a hassle the Motor Vehicle Agency can be. To avoid long lines, schedule a time on or around your move date.

Bring necessary documents to apply for a new state driver's license, such as your current license, proof of residency, and social security card.  Certain states have different requirements so check local DMV's website for more information.

In addition to transferring your license, you must also update your vehicle's title, registration, and license plates.  Once transferring the appropriate documents for your vehicle, you must also have it inspected in your new state.  Finally, check that your auto insurance is registered in your new state.

There is so much to do when you move.  I hope this helped you and if you need a good Realtor in the area you are moving to, please reach out to me.  I'm happy to help you and be your Real Estate Resource.

Memorial Day Amidst COVID19

Memorial Day may be a bit different this year as COVID19 has hampered our ability for large gatherings in parks, our lakes, and with families/friends.  Although it is a strange year, we can still honor our Military is the following ways:

American Flag

Our flag has taken on many changes since 1976.  But all in all, it still represented the American Dream of freedom for all.  The thirteen stripes represent the thirteen British Colonies that declared independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain and became the first states in the U.S. 

The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 states of the United States of America.

Without that military personnel that has fought for our freedom and proudly gave their lives for us, we could not be as bonded as a nation under God, with liberty, and justice for all.

Fly our flag proudly for our vet's!!  

Visit Cemetary/Memorials Virtually

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.  Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials.  People place flags, flowers, potted plants to honor their loved ones.  Many Veterans Clubs place individual flags on graves of the vet's.  

Each national cemetery will still conduct a wreath-laying ceremony along with a moment of silence and the playing of Taps, which will be live-streamed on the National Cemetery Administration's Facebook page.

Camp/BBQ/Vacation

Memorial Day is the official start of the summer season.  This year may have changed many families' plans for travel or vacation during the pandemic, but the spirit of summer is still alive and well in America.  People are getting so creative during this COVID19 virus.  In Loveland, CO there is a gathering (in your car of course) with 5 comedians on 11th Street downtown.  Families are going to the Drive-In Movie.  Cocktail hour on Zoom with friends.  Even churches are having virtual events. 

Whatever it takes to have a sense of community. We will prevail and our veterans have much to do with our pride in America  

Thank you veterans and their families for allowing us the privilege of being the Greatest Country in the World.  

Certified Residential Specialist - Why Not Use The Best

A Certified Residential Specialist® (CRS) is a REALTOR® who has earned certification from the Residential Real Estate Council by completing advanced training and by meeting significant experience requirements. Working with a CRS will make a real difference in the purchase or sale of your home since they have been trained to help save you time and money.

CRSs have professional experience and advanced training to ensure successful, worry-free real estate transactions.

Experience

Certified Residential Specialists® are REALTORS® that have completed a significant number of real estate transactions and have met requirements for advanced training and education. That means that CRSs are experienced professionals who have a proven track record of successful sales and transactions.

Ethics

As REALTORS®, CRSs abide by a strict Code of Ethics and maintain membership within the National Association of REALTORS®. Negotiation Skills As a home buyer or a seller, you face many risks along the way— financial risks, legal risks, even the risk that a home purchase will fall through. A CRS is trained to minimize those risks and negotiate on your behalf to give you peace of mind throughout your transaction.

Negotiation Skills

As a home buyer or a seller, you face many risks along the way— financial risks, legal risks, even the risk that a home purchase will fall through. A CRS is trained to minimize those risks and negotiate on your behalf to give you peace of mind throughout your transaction.

Contact a CRS Today!

Discover how working with me, a Certified Residential Specialist®, can help make your home buying or selling experience a success.

Moving Out Of The Area? Realtors are Great Resources

Real estate agents are a great resource if you planning on buying a home or selling a home. But, did you know that when you move out of the area, they also can be a valuable resource?    I, like other agents, are continually seeking continuing education.  During conferences, webinars, virtual learning events, I am networking with other agents around the world.

Why Is This Important To You

As a Certified Residential Specialist, Buffini and Company agent, an Independent Broker Group agent, and many other certifications and groups that I belong to, I have access to the best of the best agents.  These agents come from all walks of life and locations.

It is important to me, and to you, to refer you to an agent I know is ethical, is the right fit for you, and who is knowledgeable about the area that you are moving to.

Why Not Just Call Anyone

When you decide to move, you will have a lot of other things to think about.  Moving companies, schools, new jobs, what location should I buy-in, where can I stay temporarily, etc.  Why leave it to chance.  The most important decision you make is for your family.  The agents I recommend for you can be a great wealth of information such as Dr's, Vet, church, good places to eat or places to explore.  You could get an agent who is new to the business.  Everyone needs to start somewhere but when you are moving to a location you are not familiar with, I'm not sure this is a good choice.

I am not just real estate agents but a good resource and wealth of knowledge about the market.

When To DIY and When To Get Help

Homeowners can see expenses add up quickly. From home improvement projects to ticky-tack repairs, people are looking to avoid additional costs for their home. But what projects make sense to take care of on your own, and which ones need professional assistance? Here are some examples that will help guide your plans and know which projects to DIY and when to get help!

DIY Projects 

Clogged pipes

You can often fix these with plungers or commercial drain cleaning products.

Broken toilet handle

If your toilet doesn’t flush, remove the tank lid and see if the chain is detached from the lever.

HVAC maintenance

You can easily change your system’s filter yourself. 

Blown fuse

Simply throwing the switch in your circuit breaker could get your power back on.

New light switches

It’s fairly easy to replace a switch. Just make sure you turn off the circuit breaker before touching any electrical outlet. home improvement 101 When to DIY and when to hire help Trained Professional Required

Trained Professional Required

Major electrical work

Anything involving wiring can be extremely dangerous and should be left to a licensed electrician. ÄExtensive plumbing replacement— Replacing any fixtures can cause extensive flooding if not done properly.

VAC installation

Since these are some of the more expensive pieces of equipment in your home, don’t try installing units yourself, as it may void the warranty.

Remodeling Projects

Don't start knocking down or building new walls without discussing the idea with a maintenance or remodeling professional.

Do it yourself or Hire a Professional?  You have to make that call depending on your confidence.  I have many resources if you are in need of a plumber, electrician, or remodel contractor.  Feel free to reach out to me for a professional.  Or a move-in ready homes or new construction homes.  Please reach out to me for any help.  970-672-6069  Margaret Herdt at Turn Key Realtyhttps://www.turnkeyrealtyco.com/.

Family Is Forever and So Is The Dirt

Have you ever thought about family?  Once you have a family, it's always your family.  You might get along and you might not, but they are still your family.  Well, so is dirt.  Once you buy a home that has "dirt", then it is your "dirt".  It's always your "dirt" unless you sell it, don't pay for it, or eminent domain takes it.

"Dirt" becomes more valuable the more people that populate a location.  The less "dirt" there is, the more people are willing to pay.   It's your pot of gold!

Most of us celebrate with our family and friends in our homes.  Saint Patrick's day is just about upon us.  It is a global celebration of Irish culture on or around March 17th.  It particularly remembers St Patrick, one of Ireland's patron saints, who ministered Christianity in Ireland during the fifth century.   St Patricks Day is celebrated with family and friends and what better way to celebrate than on your own "dirt". It's a fantastic time to laugh, love, cry, and pass along the traditions that our families have given to us in generations before us.  Here are some ideas that you can do on your "dirt" to enjoy with your family and friends.

1. Make traditional St Patricks day food such as Corned Beef and Cabbage, Soda Bread, or Shepard Pie.
2. Drink green beer 
3. Buy green hats
4. Decorate with leprechauns and shamrocks

Protect your home ("dirt), update your home, enjoy your home with friends and family, and it will bring you a pot of gold.  Or, if you are interested in buying a home (dirt), give me a call at Turn Key Realty

Put $$'s In Your Pocket - Senior Property Tax Exemption

Do you want to put $$'s in your pocket?  It's really easy with the Colorado Senior Property Tax Discount Program.  The Colorado State Property Tax program was reinstated in 2012.  As long as the program is funded, and if you qualify, 50% of the first $200,000 in the actual value of the primary residence is exempted from property tax.  Once an exemption application is filed and approved by the assessor, the exemption remains in effect until a disqualifying event occurs.

Who Qualifies

• Are at least 65 years of age PRIOR to January 1 of the year of application
• Owned the home for at least 10 consecutive years prior to January 1, and
• Occupied the home as their primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years prior to January 1.
• Surviving spouses of seniors who qualified

How To Apply - Larimer County

• Pick up a form at the Larimer County Assessor office - application available Jan 1
• Address:  200 Oak Street, Fort Collins 
• Phone:  970-498-7073
• Apply before July 15th
• Mail Form to:                                                                                                                                 Larimer County Assessor -                                                                                               Senior Exemptions Processing PO Box 860 Fort Collins, CO 80522                               Phone: (970) 498-7073                                                                                                     Email: grahamsm@larimer.org

How To Apply - Weld County

• Pick up a form at the Weld County Assessor office in Greeley
• Address:  1400 N 17th Ave, Greeley 
• Phone:  970-400-3650
• Apply before July 15th
• You can request a form by emailing:  assessor@weldgov.com

For additional information, you can download the brochure published by the State of Colorado

The Role of a Personal Representative or Executor

One of the most important reasons to make a will is to name your executor -- commonly called a “personal representative” in Colorado.  If the person serving is a female -- an executrix. After your death, your executor's primary job is to protect your property until any debts and taxes have been paid, and then transfer what's left to those who are entitled to it.

What is Your Role as an Executor

• (1) determine if there are any probate assets;

• (2) identify, gather, and inventory the assets of the deceased;

• (3) receive payments due to the estate, including interest, dividends, and other income (e.g., unpaid salary, vacation pay, and other company benefits);

• (4) set up a checking account for the estate;

• (5) figure out who is going to get what and how much under the Will (if there is no Will, the state’s “interstate succession laws” apply);

• (6) value or appraise the estate’s assets;

• (7) give legal notice to potential creditors (the procedure and deadlines for creditors to file claims vary from state-to-state);

• (8) investigate the validity of all claims against the estate;

• (9) pay funeral bills, outstanding debts, and valid claims;

• (10) pay the expenses of administrating the estate;

• (11) handle various paperwork, such as discontinuing utilities and charge cards, and notifying Social Security, Civil Service, and Veterans Administration of the death;

• (12) file and pay income and estate taxes;

• (13) distribute the remaining property in accordance with the instructions provided in the deceased’s Will; and

• (14) close probate.

As of 2018, only gross estates with values of more than $5.6 million are subject to federal estate taxes, but some states also impose estate taxes. Colorado is not one of those states.  They do not impose an estate tax. Your gross taxable estate is the total value of all you own, both probate assets and property that pass directly to a living beneficiary.

As you can see, serving as a personal representative can be a huge responsibility and is often a time-consuming burden. If you need help finding a good estate planning attorney, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.  I have resources to help you.

5 Things You Need To Know To Sell Your Probate Acquired Property!

Selling a Probate Acquired property has many challenges that are different from your normal real estate sale. here are 5 things you need to know to sell a home you have acquired in a probate/estate

1. vacant homes

Homes that are vacant for more than 30 days are not covered by standard homeowner policies.  This is a major issue and one that most Personal Representative or real estate agents are not aware of.  Since most families have 80% of their assets in their home, an uninsured tragedy could be devastating emotionally and financially.  Although a Vacant Home Policy is more expensive than a traditional home policy, isn't it worth it to have the asset covered?  We are able to help you find an insurance agent that can solve this problem with a Vacant House policy – month to month.  

2. CLEAN OUT

Many Heirs and Personal Representatives live out of the area. When there is real estate in the estate, the family usually come and take the family heirlooms but are left with an entire home full of contents that they have no idea what to do with. We call this “Probate Quicksand”.  this is one of the biggest challenges when selling a probate home.  Our clean out crews will dispose of the rest – if that is the families wishes. If necessary we have contractors and handyman services to fix up any needed items, pressure wash and clean the home up in order to get the maximum dollars in the sale. Since we are a Probate Resource we can handle most necessary home challenges. It could take weeks/months to find a responsible crew to do this work.  With an out of town Personal Representative, this could take even longer. Many of the people we help never even leave their home and we never meet them. they can stay home and tend to their family and jobs while we do the work.

3. KEEP PROPERTY MAINTAINED

Now you have two homes or three homes or ???  Homes deteriorate when not occupied, so the sooner you decide what to do with this asset the better.  How will you get the yard work done and keep up with maintenance?  We have people who can assist you in maintaining the home.  We are just a call away.

4. OPTIONS FOR THE SALE

You have three options for selling the property.  A. You can sell to a flipper/wholesaler for 70 cents on the dollar. The advantages to this are they buy it "as is".  We have investors who are interested in these type homes.   B. Place it on the open market for market value.  This is usually done by a licensed realtor.  In our current Colorado market, this process usually takes 30-45 days. If repairs are needed, we have a vast group of individuals who can make these necessary repairs.  We have had over 20 yrs selling real estate assets and can help you with this process. or  C. Sell it yourself.  Typically this takes a lot of time that most Personal Representatives don't have.  D.  What if the remaining spouse needs to be removed from the home to a safer environment.  We have a team of people that we can refer you to for help with this matter too.  

5. OPTIONS FOR THE PROCEEDS

After the sale of the assets, the proceeds need to be divided amongst the heirs.  If there are positive proceeds left then it's time to decide what to do with that money.  Will you invest in an investment property to generate further income?  Will you invest the money in stocks, bonds, etc?  A financial planner might be an option.  We have a list of financial planners we work with that can help with this.  Or, if you plan on buying real estate then we can assist you in what type of property to purchase.  It might be a residential property, commercial entity, luxury home, second home, vacation home, townhome, etc.  We have been involved in all of these type transactions and have been selling real estate for 20 years.  

FREE SERVICE So as you can see we have a lot of people on our team that can help you.  Why go it alone?  With so many options at our fingertips and our service is FREE, why do it yourself. 

CALL US TODAY AND LET’S GET STARTED  OR CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT WE DO

www.turnkeyrealtyco/com/probate       970-672-6069     margaret@turnkeyrealtyco.com

Documents You Should Fill Out Before You Die

Estate planning is the process of establishing a framework to manage your assets upon death, disability or incapacity. It involves creating documents that outline your wishes. While estate planning is not a pleasant task, it is critical that you implement it before you need it.

Here are seven critical documents necessary to cover the aspects of a well-devised estate plan.

1. Last Will & Testament

The fundamental purpose of a will is to outline who will receive your assets upon your death. Another important purpose of a will is to specify guardianship for your minor children. A guardian is one who takes legal responsibility for the care of your minor or incapacitated children after you are gone. It is important to understand that a will does not become effective until the date of death. So it does not provide any benefits during your lifetime. A will can be changed at any time (assuming you are not mentally incapacitated). It can be amended by using a codicil or revoked by writing a new will. A will can also create a trust upon your death. If your estate is large enough you may also need to incorporate federal estate tax planning into your documents.

2. Trust

A trust is a legal instrument that provides ongoing management for your assets. It can be inter vivos (also known as a Living Trust, which exists during your lifetime) or Testamentary (one that is created by your will upon your death). It is a good idea to leave assets in trust if the beneficiaries are minors, incapacitated, or if they are simply not fiscally responsible. The trust document names a trustee who has the responsibility of managing the assets in the trust and determines when and how much of the trust assets to distribute (subject to the terms you have written in the trust). You may want to name a trustee while your child is under a certain age, say 25 or 30. Then, once your child reaches that specific age, they can either act as their own trustee, or the trust can terminate and distribute all of the assets to your child outright.

3. Power of Attorney

A Power of Attorney allows you to empower someone else to act on your behalf for legal and financial decisions. It can be a Durable Power of Attorney, which becomes effective immediately, or a Springing Power of Attorney, which becomes effective upon a stipulated event, typically when you are disabled or mentally incompetent. It is critical that you completely trust the person to whom you provide this power, as he or she can legally act on your behalf.

4. Healthcare Power of Attorney

A Healthcare Power of Attorney (also known as a Medical Power of Attorney) gives a trusted individual the authority to make decisions about your medical treatment should you be unable to do so on your own. No financial authority is granted in this document, only medical power. So you could provide one person the Durable Power of Attorney and another person the Healthcare Power of Attorney if you desire.

5. Living Will

While the Healthcare Power of Attorney authorizes another to make medical decisions on your behalf, a Living Will (also known as a Directive to Physicians) sets out your predetermined wishes regarding end-of-life care should you become terminally ill or permanently unconscious. Essentially it takes the decision to withhold life out of the hands of your medical providers and the ones you love so that they are not burdened by it and so that you can be assured your wishes are respected.

6. HIPAA Release

One of the important provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is the obligation that medical records be kept confidential. While this is definitely an important requirement, it can have severe unintended consequences. Without the legal authority to share medical records, your family may not be able to obtain important information regarding your medical condition and treatment if you were to become incapacitated. A HIPAA release allows your medical providers to share and discuss your medical situation with whomever you specify in the document.

7. Letter of Intent

A Letter of Intent is a simple, non-binding personal letter to the ones you love expressing your desires and special requests. It may include information regarding burial or cremation, or a specific bequest of collectibles or personal items. While it does not typically have legal authority, it can help to clear up confusion regarding your personal preferences.

Estate planning can be complex and the laws vary widely by state. This article is general in nature and is not meant to provide legal advice. I recommend that you engage the services of an estate planning attorney to discuss your wishes and prepare the appropriate documents.

Six 5k Walks around Loveland CO This Spring/Summer

There are lots of different walking events in and around Loveland CO this spring and summer. Here are six runs that are coming soon.

If you are a beginning runner, going from zero to 5k, you will need about two months to prepare.  Here are some tips to help you get off the couch and onto the trails.

• Start out by walking/running three times a week
• Alternate between walking and running for about 30 minutes, decreasing the time you walk each week.
• Every week, transition one of your 30-minute run/walks into a three-mile walk, until you're doing three miles three times a week
• Gradually increase the mileage of one-run a week until you are doing five miles once a week.

Here are six 5k runs for you to check out and register for.  What better way to get in shape and contribute to a cause.  

_________________________________________________________________________________

April 20

Loveland Classic

Supports:  Early Childhood Education

Visit website:  Loveland Classic 

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May 11

CerusRuk (obstacle + race)

Supports:  Roberta's Legacy - breast cancer 

Visit website: CerusRuk

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June 2

Crazy Leggs 10k Run

Supports:  Devils Backbone Run

Visit website:  Crazy Legs Run

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June 15

Sierra's Race

Supports:  Meningitis

Visit website:  Sierra's Race

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July 4

Loveland Liberty 5k

Supports:  Life for the Innocent

Visit Website:  Loveland Liberty

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August 9

Valley 5000

Supports:  House of Neighborly Service

Visit Website:  Valley 5000

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Your Real Estate Resource Market Review for March 2019

Northern Colorado Market Report March 2019

As a service to you, I am providing March's real estate market statistics for Northern Colorado. This information has been compiled by IRES which is the multiple listing service (MLS) that serves Northern Colorado, counties Larimer and Weld. As 2019 progresses, I will provide you with monthly updates of these market statistics.

This linked Monthly Market Report will illustrate March's..

• Home Sale Activity
• Average Sold Prices
• Listing Inventory
• Average Days on Market
•  Housing Activity by Price Range

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Walkable Neighborhoods

Loveland CO Public Transporation route

More American's prefer living in a walkable, mixed use neighborhoods with easy access to amenities according to a Community Preference Study done by the  NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. More than half (56%) of respondents said they preferred living in a walkable neighborhood over one that requires more driving between work, home, and recreation.  When considering a home purchase, 77% of respondents say they would look for locations with abundant sidewalks, while 50% say they would rather see improvements to public transit systems than initiatives to build new roads. 

While space is important to many home buyers, some say theyare willing to sacrifice more square footage if it means less driving. Nearly three out of five home buyers say they would choose a smaller home if it's location promised commute time of less than 20 minutes.

Walking can play a significant role in your health, your quality of life, and your enjoyment of the outdoors in Loveland, Colorado. 

Old Home vs New Construction

Why do some buyers prefer older homes while others prefer new construction?  Here are a list of ideas for determining whether to buy an older homes vs newer homes.

Older Homes

1. Established neighborhood
2. Established landscaping
3. Window treatment is already in place
4. More character
5. The cooling system is usually in place
6. School systems are already ranked
7. You could see settling or cracks due to poor quality construction - time shows the flaws
8. Usually no HOA or metro district is in place - less monthly cost
9. You may run into older wiring or plumbing
10. Maintenance is an ongoing thing from day one.
11. Most homes are unique
12. Lot sizes are usually bigger

Newer Homes

1. You are starting out with everything new
2. While everything is new there may be some additional expenses such as: window coverings, A/C units, landscaping (back or possibly both), fencing
3. More than likely there will be an HOA - added cost monthly and when you go to sell (transfer fees)
4. Everyone is new in the neighborhood so your chances of connecting with the neighbors are better than in an established one.  
5. Everything is to code or should be
6. Everyone in the neighborhood has the 3 - 5 floor plans (cookie cutter development)
7. Schools may not be established yet or ranked
8. Prices are usually lower at the start of the development.  Each construction phase will have an increase in price, so get in early.
9. You may purchase early in the subdivision development but then the builder stops building.  It could be years before the rest is finished
10. You will experience noise and construction mess during the building up of the neighborhood - dust and extra contractor vehicles.

While there is a home for everyone, not everyone's tastes and buying power are the same.  There is a house for everyone.  You just need to determine what you like.  Whether it is a new build or an existing home from 1920, HAVE AN INSPECTION done on the property.  I've seen cracked sewer lines in new construction.  Just because it's new doesn't mean it's better.  

Utilizing a REALTOR®   can help you make the right decision for you.

Your Real Estate Resource

Spend More Time in a Beautiful Kitchen - Kitchen Trends 2019

What better way to spend a snowy day, than in a beautiful kitchen and a home that you own and enjoy.  Oh sure, you can go out to eat and all of that, but when you have an amazing kitchen to cook in and family to share it with, why go out.  

According to Forbes the U.S. falls very close to the middle of the pack at 3 hours 27 minutes per day in the kitchen.  The majority of this work involves cooking and cleaning; overall, an average of 2 hours and 8 minutes per day are spent on meal preparation and clean up.  That doesn't leave us much time to eat and enjoy our food, family and friends.  Maybe you need an update?  Here are a few trends that are new for 2019.

Patterned Flooring

Patterned flooring is becoming a look for 2019.  Whether it is in the kitchen or bath, patterned floors can add so much character to a room.  You can add color, design, and an different feel to a room if your focal point is the flooring.  I would like to spend my time in this kitchen.  How about you? 

Another idea that is changing in the kitchen is:

Retro designs

Colored appliances and the retro look appliances are a hit right now.   Granted they are not like the real "ice boxes" of yesteryear but they have the look. 

Black and Gold 

Black and gold appliances with a matt finish are replacing the white kitchens of the last few years.  Stainless steel is also trending out.  A warmer feel to the kitchen is being designed to add a calmer "mood".

Remodel Costs

If you are thinking your kitchen needs an update then maybe a remodel might be in order. 

The cost to update your kitchen in Northern Colorado can be a little as $6,000 or as much or more than $27,000.  The benefits will out weigh the costs.  Your beautiful kitchen will be more enjoyable to be in and your return on investment can be as much as 80% depending on what you do. 

Your Northern Colorado Real Estate Resource 

TIPS FOR HIDING MESSES WHILE SELLING A HOME

An important part of the home-selling process is showing it to prospective buyers. Unfortunately, that means tidying up even more frequently than you normally would, so buyers can focus on the house’s features rather than your household items. While it may not be possible to keep your home completely mess-free when you have children, below are some tips for keeping the chaos to a minimum:

Under-bed storage

If there’s enough space under their beds, encourage kids to keep their rooms tidy with rolling plastic or rattan storage bins. Then, use an oversized comforter or quilt— or strategically placed blankets—to hide the bins from sight. Built-in storage. It may be impossible to keep things from leaving kids’ rooms and entering the living room. Utilize furniture with built-in storage, such as ottomans, or clear a drawer in the entertainment center specifically to tuck away any roaming toys, games and other items.

Baskets and Trunks

If you don’t have much built-in storage or discreet space to take advantage of, consider buying decorative trunks or baskets with lids that you can place around your home. Suitcases. If you need to store toys in the back of a closet, put them in suitcases that you can easily roll and move rather than bulky plastic bins. Suitcases are also a more discreet storage option than bins when buyers glance inside the closet to gauge how much space is available.

Donations 

While your kids may feel attached to every toy, stuffed animal or plaything they own, it might be time to downsize the collection. Suggest that they start a donation pile, so that their unused items can bring joy to other kids instead.

Margaret Herdt Broker/Owner CRS

970-672-6069

margaret@turnkeyrealtyco.com

Credit:  Certified Residential Specialists (CRS)