As Featured in West + Main Home Magazine: Paving the way for Outdoor Bliss

An interview with Sue Perrault + Mark Pledger - W+M Agents

West + Main agents Sue + Mark have a great Colorado backyard that is a truly peaceful setting, backing to a pretty farmhouse and a pasture with cows.

It felt super rural and private and just so pretty, and was one of the reasons we bought the house," said Sue. "Our backyard patio, not so much. We had a large area that had been a water feature but was now just a pile of rocks, with a small 10-foot concrete slab out the back door. So, no place really to sit or entertain. We love the outdoors and wanted to utilize the space and make a lovely outdoor entertaining area.”

“The project was difficult and needed professionals to make it happen," said Mark. "This was not a beginner-level, lay down some pavers sort of situation. We interviewed several companies and researched a ton to decide on materials, etc. At first we considered stamped concrete, but after researching we found that it would require too much maintenance and was prone to cracking. We decided on the Belgard pavers in the Aspen color, which we absolutely fell in love with. For the border, we chose a dark brown shade."

“We absolutely love the finished project. We had them run a gas line to the firepit and the outdoor kitchen area and are so happy to just flip a switch and not have to worry about propane running out.”

— Sue

The couple ended up choosing Twisted Vine Landscaping and Design to complete the project. They decided to keep the patio in a curved shape that matches the existing landscaping.

"It really turned out to be exactly as we had envisioned and is truly an extension of our home and the perfect outdoor living space," said Sue. "Our best advice would be to do your research on materials, interview a lot of companies to find the right fit, and then be present when work is being done."

"The patio turned out larger than we had originally planned and we are glad that it did," said Mark. "It feels spacious and gives us room for a couple of sitting areas as well as a nice dining space. We also used stacked rock for the firepit and the outdoor kitchen, and extended the patio to include the hot tub. We practically live out there now!"

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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Home Prices Are Rebounding

If you’re following the news today, you may feel a bit unsure about what’s happening with home prices and fear whether or not the worst is yet to come.

That’s because today’s headlines are painting an unnecessarily negative picture. If we take a year-over-year view, home prices did drop some, but that’s because we’re comparing to a ‘unicorn’ year when prices peaked well beyond the norm.

To avoid an unfair comparison to that previous peak, we need to look at monthly data. And that tells a very different and much more positive story. While local home price trends still vary by market, here’s what the national data tells us.

The graphs below use recent monthly reports from three sources to show the worst home price declines are already behind us, and prices are appreciating nationally.

Looking at this monthly view, we can see the past year in the housing market can be divided into two parts. In the first half of 2022, home prices were going up, and fast. However, starting in July, prices began to go down (shown in red in the graphs above). By around August or September, the trend started to stabilize. But, looking at the most recent data for early 2023, these graphs also show that prices are going up again.

The fact that all three reports show prices have been going up for three or more straight months is an encouraging sign for the housing market. The month-over-month data indicates a national shift is happening – home prices are rising again.

Craig J. Lazzara, Managing Director at S&P Dow Jones Indices, says this about home price trends:

“If I were trying to make a case that the decline in home prices that began in June 2022 had definitively ended in January 2023, April’s data would bolster my argument.” 

Experts believe one of the reasons prices didn’t crash like some expected is because there aren’t enough available homes for the number of people who want to buy them. Even with today’s mortgage rates, there are more people looking to buy than there are homes available for sale.

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, explains how more demand than supply keeps upward pressure on prices:

“History has shown that higher rates may take the steam out of rising prices, but it doesn’t cause them to collapse entirely. This is especially true in today’s housing market, where the demand for homes continues to outpace supply, keeping the pressure on house prices.”

Doug Duncan, Senior VP and Chief Economist at Fannie Mae, states home price growth is exceeding expectations thanks to that high demand:

“. . . housing prices continue to show stronger growth than what was previously expected . . . Housing’s performance is a testimony to the strength of demographic-related demand . . .”

Here’s How This Affects You

• Buyers: If you’ve been holding off on buying because you were worried the value of your home would go down, knowing home prices have bounced back should bring you some relief. It also gives you the opportunity to own something that usually becomes more valuable as time goes on.

• Sellers: If you’ve been waiting to sell your house because you were concerned about how changing home prices would affect its value, it might be a good idea to team up with a real estate agent to list your house. You don’t have to wait any longer because the latest data suggests things are turning in your favor.

Bottom Line

If you delayed your moving plans because you were concerned about home prices dropping, the latest data reveals the worst is already over, and prices are appreciating nationally. Partner with a local real estate agent so you know what's happening with home prices in your area.

Read more like this on Keeping Current Matters.

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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The Ultimate Guide To Choosing a Roof That Suits Your Home

When it comes to selecting the right roof for your home, there are numerous factors to consider - from your home's design and architecture to the climate and budget.

The roof is an integral part of your home, and getting it right requires careful consideration. With so many options available, homeowners are often confused about which material will suit their home best. This guide will help you navigate through the process of selecting the perfect roof for your home that is both functional and adds aesthetic value.

Consider Your Home’s Architectural Style
The architectural style of your home plays a significant role in determining which roof material works best. For instance, traditional homes look great with slate, tile, and wood shake roofs. On the other hand, modern constructions benefit from metal or flat roofs. Choosing a roof that aligns with your home's style enhances its curb appeal and complements the overall design.

Climate Considerations
Choosing a roof that can withstand extreme weather conditions is crucial. For instance, if you live in an area prone to hail, selecting a roofing material that cracks easily is not ideal. Similarly, if you live in areas with heavy rainfall, selecting roofs with inadequate drainage systems can lead to water damage to your home. Experts in roofing can recommend different materials based on the kind of climate in your area.

Longevity and Durability
The roof you choose must be able to withstand environmental conditions and last a long time. Durable roofs like tile, slate, and metal can last up to 50 years, whereas asphalt shingles last roughly twenty years. Moreover, roofing materials like tile and metal are low maintenance and do not require frequent repairs, which saves you money in the long run.

Energy Efficiency
The energy efficiency of your roof is becoming an increasingly important consideration for homeowners. Roofs with insulation reduce the amount of heat that escapes the house, thereby cutting down on energy consumption. Materials like metal and asphalt reflect heat, which helps keep the home cool during the hot summer months. Investing in an energy-efficient roof can lower your bills and positively impact the environment.

Budget
Your budget is a crucial consideration when choosing a new roof. Some materials, like slate and tile, are expensive, while asphalt and metal are more affordable. While it's tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it is essential to balance the cost and long-term benefits of the roof. Some materials like metal and asphalt may have lower upfront costs but require frequent repairs over their lifespan.

Choosing the right roof for your home can be an overwhelming process, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. Consider your home's style and architecture, climate, durability, energy efficiency, and budget when evaluating different roofing materials. Consulting experts in roofing can also help determine the best roofing material for your home. Investing in a new roof can significantly improve your home's curb appeal, energy efficiency, and overall value.

Keep reading on RISMedia.

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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Tips for Updating Your Outdated Kitchen on a Budget

The kitchen is perhaps the most used and visited space in any home. It’s the heart of the house, where we cook, eat and entertain guests.

However, with time and use, your kitchen can become outdated and worn out. Refurbishing the entire kitchen can be expensive, but there are plenty of affordable ways to update your kitchen without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we’ll offer some tips on how to transform your kitchen into a modern and functional space that makes cooking a pleasant experience.

Repaint Your Cabinets
Painting your cabinets is an affordable way to give your kitchen an instant makeover. With the right color and tone, your kitchen cabinets can give your entire space an updated, fresh look. Choose colors that are trendy, yet timeless, like white, gray, or navy blue. You can also get creative with a two-tone look where you paint the upper and lower cabinets different colors. Adding new hardware to the cabinets can also provide an extra touch of elegance.

Upgrade Appliances
Your appliances may be working correctly, but they may look outdated, which can be an eyesore. Investing in new stainless-steel appliances can make a significant difference in your kitchen's look and feel. If buying new appliances is not feasible, updating the existing appliances with a fresh coat of paint or sticking a vinyl sheet on them is an option. This not only gives a facelift to the existing appliance but also saves you a lot of money.

Add a Backsplash
A backsplash is an excellent way to add a pop of color and style to your kitchen. You can choose from a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns to suit your taste. Adding a backsplash to your kitchen not only protects against spills and stains, but it also creates a focal point in the kitchen. You don’t have to install a backsplash throughout the entire kitchen. A focal point behind the cooking space or a small backsplash area behind the sink would add value to your kitchen.

New Countertops
Replacing countertops can be a big-ticket item, but there are inexpensive options available to refresh the countertops' look. Painting countertops with a high-quality primer and a granite-look paint kit can transform the look of the kitchen countertops. Another alternative is to install a countertop overlay made of granite or an engineered stone-like product, which can be placed over the existing countertops. This gives an immediate update to your kitchen without replacing the countertops altogether.

Update Lighting
A kitchen is not adequately lit only by overhead lights. Update the lighting fixtures around the kitchen for a refreshing look. Adding new pendant lights over the kitchen island or the breakfast nook adds depth and character to space. Under Cabinet lighting can also revive a kitchen’s look; this adds brightness to the countertop area and creates a cozy ambiance.

Transforming a kitchen does not have to cost a fortune. Simple updates can make a world of difference if done correctly. Repainting cabinets, adding a backsplash, swapping out hardware, upgrading appliances, updating the lighting, or painting or overlaying countertops can create a whole new space without the hassle and expense of a full renovation. The key is to identify which moves are best for your space, style, and budget, and getting started on creating the kitchen of your dreams. If needed, work with a company like Nielsen's Remodeling & Construction to help you stick to a budget while meeting your renovation needs. Follow these tips and enjoy cooking in a modern, upgraded kitchen without breaking the bank.

Read on.

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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How Remote Work Expands Your Homebuying Horizons

Even as some companies transition back into the office, remote work remains a popular choice for many professionals.

So, if you currently enjoy working from home or hope to be able to soon, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey, most working professionals want to work either fully remote or hybrid (see below):

This trend is good news if you’re looking to buy a home because a remote or hybrid work setup can help you overcome some of today’s affordability and housing inventory challenges.

More Work Flexibility Equals More Home Options

Remote or hybrid work opens up a world of opportunities. That’s because it allows you to broaden your search for your next home since you’re no longer limited to living close to your workplace. With the freedom to work from anywhere, you can explore more affordable areas that may be located farther away from bustling city centers or your office. This flexibility can be a game changer while higher mortgage rates are making it difficult for some homebuyers to afford a home.

An article from the New York Times (NYT) highlights how remote work can greatly assist you in overcoming that challenge:

“. . . take advantage of the opportunity remote work has presented to move to more affordable communities (either farther out in the suburbs, or in another part of the country).”

And, since the supply of homes for sale is still so low, another key challenge for you today may be finding something with all of the features you want and need. Because remote work allows you to broaden your search radius to include additional areas, you may actually have less trouble finding a home with the features you want the most because you’ll have a bigger pool of options to pick from.

Working remotely gives you the flexibility to find an affordable home with the features you want. In other words, you have a better chance of getting what you need without blowing your budget. 

Bottom Line

Working remotely not only gives you more flexibility in your job but also presents a great chance to broaden your search for a home. Since you're not limited to a specific location, you have the opportunity to explore more options. Connect with a local real estate agent to discuss how this can expand your choices and help you find the perfect home.

Keep reading on Keeping Current Matters.

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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