Posted on Saturday, May 30, 2009 | A large number of baby boomers are transforming the extra bedrooms in their Naples homes. These are not designed for company necessarily, but rather for aging parents or children in their 20s, returning home after college. Designing a space for children is not the same as decorating for an older adult.
In the case of an elderly parent, a separate sense of space and privacy needs to be created. You must also think about a place for medical materials in the bedroom or bathroom.
More ...
|
Posted on Saturday, May 30, 2009 | Some Naples home owners are living off the land. Farm living has increased at the rate of 2 percent a year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service. The majority of owners aren't planning to farm for money.
Farm living isn't for everyone, mainly because it involves a lot of work. Another reason why people stay away from living on a farm is because of isolation. However, living on a farm just might be for you. That is, if you enjoy open space and are wanting a challenge.
More ...
|
Posted on Friday, May 29, 2009 | More individuals are purchasing gear that use cords. Almost every Naples home consists of a variety of cell phones, computers, and iPods, which come with a mixture of unsightly cords. Several companies are now developing furniture complete with intergrated power strips, USB ports, and phone and Internet jacks. From end tables to desks to coffee tables, power sources can be hidden almost anywhere.
Staying away from spills on night stands and coffee tables is one of the challenges that comes with power outlets. Can we keep liquids away from the coffee table, just as we keep them away from the computer? We have got to proceed with caution until cell phones and laptops are made water resistant. This kind of furniture could one day become standard; as of now, it remains a luxury.
More ...
|
Posted on Thursday, May 28, 2009 | Just because the Naples real estate market is balancing out, it doesn't mean that you should stress when the time comes to put your home on the market. All you will need to do is approach the situation with the proper knowledge.
Setting the right asking price is the best place to begin. Listing your home at or below the competitive market price is best. Lower prices are going to create greater interest and you could finish with a larger amount of money because of competitive bidding. By promising buyer perks, you will have a better chance of selling your house now, instead of months from now. It can cost you a small amount more up front, but with so many other choices, you can set your home above the rest.
Finally, make sure both the outside as well as the inside are spic and span. An unsightly house simply won't sell since looks are everything. By following these basic tips, your Naples home has a better chance of selling .
More ...
|
Posted on Tuesday, May 26, 2009 | There has never been a better time to purchase a house, even though the Naples real estate market is beginning to slow. As soon as you found a home in a hot market, you had to jump on it.
You can take the time to look for the ideal home now, since there is a greater choice in housing. The present market also allows more freedom for bargaining. Buyers have even more say at the table, even though the whole process might take a little bit longer. Presently, interest rates are still comparatively low. For the most part, you are getting a fantastic deal, though rates might not be at 5.84%, as they were in 2004.
If nothing else, a home is a great investment. Whether you are buying to sell, or buying for good, owning a home is going to generate great tax benefits.
More ...
|
Posted on Monday, May 25, 2009 | Mold can bring down almost any piece of Naples real estate . Although most assume that weather and humidity are major signals of mold growth, a new report found that building quality may be one of the main factors.
The buildings of today are constructed to adhere to strict energy guidelines. When moisture becomes stuck inside the walls of a structure, the greenhouse effect is created. It is smart to get routine roof, drainage, and structure inspections to keep up on mold infestations.
It's more costly to fix a massive mold problem than it is to get annual inspections. What's more, when it comes time to sell your Naples home , a mold problem can cost you the sale.
More ...
|
Posted on Sunday, May 24, 2009 | Any piece of Naples real estate could be burdened by mold. A new investigation revealed that building quality just might be one of the main contributors to mold growth, not weather and humidity.
The buildings of today are constructed to meet tight energy regulations. The greenhouse effect is created when moisture is trapped inside the walls of a building. Routine checkups on the roof, drainage, and structure will help you keep up on mold infestation.
It's more costly to repair a giant mold problem than it is to get yearly inspections. A mold problem could end a deal when it comes time to list your Naples home .
More ...
|
Posted on Saturday, May 23, 2009 | Numerous towns are looking to the past for urban design. Cities of the past were designed in a rectangular block with a roads system, public and private buildings, a theater, and an amphitheater.
Developers, and anybody involved in Naples real estate , must remember that some elements of design are timeless and should not be forgotten. The more prominent concern for new developments is environmental issues. Instead of obliterating forests, drainage corridors, and mountain slopes, developers want to build around them to protect natural features, similar to earlier developments.
Plans are set up so that eighty-percent of development is going to be within five minutes of 80 percent of all activities for easy "walkability." The fact that this advancement focuses less on the house and much more on the community remains the most fundamental link to ancient civilization.
More ...
|
Posted on Thursday, May 21, 2009 | The windows have been picked out and the blueprints are drawn. The time has come to remodel your Naples home. However, be careful, you don't want to make a mistake that might decrease the value of your house.
Over expanding must be avoided. Your home will be more difficult to sell, even though it is the best on the block. Also, do not try to make your home something it is not. Ktichens should remain kitchens and bathrooms should be bathrooms.
The general style or architectural design should not be changed either. Be sure to budget properly for your remodel. Time and money is often times under budgeted by 20-30 percent. Unless you are a pro, hire someone to do the job.
Be sure to keep up on all maintenance. Keep the power lines cleared from tress, the yard nice and neat, and the fireplace clean. Sticking to these guidelines means that the remodel of your Naples home will be a success.
More ...
|
Posted on Thursday, May 21, 2009 | Improvements, like a brand new master bedroom or deck, can add value to your Naples home . When the time comes to resell, some renovations might end up costing you.
Adding a swimming pool is critical in the hot, dry regions. In the cooler regions, the thought of maintenance is enough to turn buyers off. Families with younger children may think twice about buying a home with a pool. The kids new playroom is great, but you probably didn't consider how it looks from the exterior. A poorly designed addition, one that doesn't fit the rest of the home, will be difficult to sell.
Be careful when following design fads. Just like green shag carpet, above counter sinks and bamboo floors will date a home. Be smart and think ahead when personalizing your Naples home.
More ...
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 20, 2009 | For many years, we have been learning about all sorts of pollution. A relatively new kind of pollution is light pollution. "Dark sky" lamps are being put in more and more Naples homes . This type of lamp is intended to reduce the amount of light pollution. These dark sky lamps shoot the majority of their brightness downward, decreasing the amount of light shed into the night's sky.
Hundreds of cities and subdivisions have passed anti-light pollution regulations and several cities have been declared International Dark Sky Cities. Putting in dark sky lamps in your Naples home may be the next step in design.
More ...
|
Posted on Monday, May 18, 2009 | Prior to putting in a laundry room upstairs in your Naples home , you will need to do some careful planning. If you don't, you could face water damage or structural setbacks if the job is completed incorrectly.
To ensure that your house will support the extra weight and vibrations from a washer and dryer, it is a good idea to bring in an architect and perhaps even a structural engineer. Installing a floor drain and electronic shutoff valve, which will automatically block the flow of water in case of a leak, to avoid water damage from flooding.
Putting in a dedicated electric and gas line is going to be the priciest piece of the job. Finally, do your homework to search for the most quiet and energy efficient appliances. By following these easy steps, you can safely put in upstairs laundry and increase the price value of your Naples home .
More ...
|
Posted on Sunday, May 17, 2009 | Tree houses are not just for the kids anymore. Think about building in the woods, literally, instead of purchasing a typical Naples home . In certain communities, tree houses, complete with running water, electricity, and plumbing, are popular. A distinct, secluded lifestyle is possible in homes built amidst the branches of pine, spruce, and birtch tress.
To tap into the inner child, a few homes come set up with swings, bridges, slides, or even a zip line. A few people have been waiting thier whole lives for the opportunity to live in a tree, however, this way of life is not be for everyone.
More ...
|
Posted on Sunday, May 17, 2009 | Toys that use cords are being purchased by more and more individuals. Cell phones, laptops, and iPods are virtually mandatory in any Naples home , but require a number of unattractive cords. Furniture with built in power strips, USB ports, and phone and Internet jacks are now being manufactured by many companies. From end tables to desks to coffee tables, power sources can be concealed nearly anywhere.
A challenge that come with bringing power to end tables and coffee tables is staying away from spills. We are used to keeping liquids away from the computer, but can we keep them away from the coffee table? We will need to proceed with caution until cell phones and laptops are made waterproof. This kind of furniture is considered a luxury, but will eventually become standard.
More ...
|
Posted on Friday, May 15, 2009 | Naples real estate might make the switch to teeny, tiny houses from massive McMansions. Numerous Small House Society divisions are looking to literally alter the way people live. Info regarding building methods and about the professionals who design and build simplified structures ranging from 50 to 1,000 sq ft, is offered by the Small House Society.
By occupying these types of small homes, residents live simply and efficiently and use less energy. Bigger homes cost much more and are harder to look after than a little home. Folks who live in a small space often find the simple life to be "quite relaxing," but small living isn't for everyone.
More ...
|
Posted on Thursday, May 14, 2009 | If your Naples home remains on the market, you might need to bring in the experts. A great way to make a noteworthy first impression on prospective buyers is to stage your house. Staging simply means rearranging or taking out furniture to make up a tasteful look. An additional cost is unappealing, but staging will pay for itself.
Generally, a staged home usually remains on the market for 1.5 months less than its non-staged counterpart will. The owner must be as detached as possible to sell a home because staging is all about depersonalization. You have a sale when possible buyers can imagine themselves in your Naples home .
More ...
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 | Interior decorating has moved from light to dark. So many Naples homeowners would like to see shades of black, brown, and grey instead of pale woods. From walls to appliances, everything is taking on a darker shade. To many, these darker colors balance the stresses of daily life and create a pleasant ambiance.
Like any trend, dark decorating may one day seem dated. The pink bathtubs from the 60s and forest greens of the 80s definitely date a room. Although, if done properly, your Naples home could be changed from conventional to warm and cozy.
More ...
|
Posted on Monday, May 11, 2009 | There is a new twist to the white picket fences surrounding Naples homes . A gated fence not only increases security, but it boosts privacy as well. At the end of a driveway or onto an existing wall or fence, you can install a remote controlled gate. A computer program, hand-held instrument, or even a BlackBerry or Treo will be able to trigger the gate.
These kinds of systems don't come cheap. A professional, more sophisticated system might run anywhere from $18,000 to $130,000, while a DIY system can be purchased for about $1,2000. Many people feel that these gates are an indication of the boost in fear and anxiety in Americans. Many others think that they are simply the best method of privacy. Either way, those selling fences claim that business is booming.
More ...
|
Posted on Sunday, May 10, 2009 | Several areas are looking to the past for urban design. Cities of the past were designed with a system of roads, public and private buildings, a theater, and an amphitheater, in a rectangular group.
Some elements of design are enduring and shouldn't be forgotten. This should be remembered by developers and those involved in Naples real estate . The more prominent concern for newer developments is environmental issues. Just like the earlier developments, new developers are building around forests, drainage corridors, and mountain ranges, instead of removing them.
Programs are set up so that eighty-percent of development must be within five minutes of 80 percent of all activities for easy "walkability." Perhaps the most significant link to ancient civilization is the fact that new growth relies less on the home and a good deal more on the community.
More ...
|
Posted on Friday, May 08, 2009 | In your Naples home , the proper lighting can make a big difference. Lighting can brighten an entire space, draw attention to a specific architectural piece, or simply alter the mood of a room. There are a few things to remember when putting in new lights. Be sure to use a consistent style. An older house will certainly look better with a period crystal chandelier than with colorful tract lighting. Remember, different lighting will produce different things. By adding lights under cabinets, you will accent a granite countertop.
Make sure you assess every room at night, without any natural light, to get an idea for the type of lighting that you will need. A sconce is a fantastic way to add a romantic, elegant, touch to most any wall. Always cover the bulb, there's nothing more unsightly than an uncovered light bulb. Finally, install individual switches for every light and don't forget the dimmers. Your Naples home is going to be exquisitely lit by keeping these tips in mind.
More ...
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 06, 2009 | While conventional Naples apartment rentals are experiencing a slight dip, student housing is still going strong. The average growth rate for every form of student housing has increased by 7 percent, according to a recent report. The greatest increase, from 9 to 13 percent, was seen in units with +3 bedrooms.
A lease remains by the unit, not the bed, and the majority of leases go the regular 12-months. This news proves valuable for Naples homeowners leasing to students.
More ...
|
Posted on Monday, May 04, 2009 | Older Naples homes may be affected by new remodel procedures introduced by the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA calls for lead training, certification, and safe work practice requirements for contractors involved in remodels on houses built before 1987. By the year 2010, the objective is to eliminate the public health concern of lead poisoning.
Lead is a very abrasive metal that has been used for many years in paint. Children younger than six are most at risk because their nervous systems have not fully developed. A slew of health problems can affect anyone. Contact Naples real estate with any issues with regards to lead in your home.
More ...
|
Posted on Sunday, May 03, 2009 | There are several things you can do in your Naples home to reduce the electricity costs.. For starters, you can switch to compact fluorescent bulbs in lamps that are on for over two hours a day. Fluorescent bulbs are 6-8 times more energy effective than conventional bulbs and will endure 10-20 times longer.
Unplug devices such as iPod chargers or paper shreders when they are not being used. Even if they are not on, they still use up some power. While heating up small foods that don't need to be pre-heated, use an energy efficient microwave or toaster oven.
When you finish using your computer, change it off or onto "standby" mode. You might be able to reduce the price of operating a computer by 85 percent simply by using a laptop instead of a desktop. Turn your fridge to 38-40 degrees Fahrenheit and do not open the door very often or for long amounts of time.
Finally, only use the dryer for full loads, if possible, line dry, and use cold water for washing. By starting with these small steps, you are going to lower your CO2 emissions and save money on your monthly bills.
More ...
|
Posted on Saturday, May 02, 2009 | An estimated 25 percent to 40 percent of condo conversions have gone back to rentals, nationwide. Naples real estate could be impacted by this shift.
Unable to sell these converted condos, individuals are encouraging tenants to come back. As more and more conversions occur, rental prices are more than likely to level out. Keep an eye out for conversions in Naples.
More ...
|
|
Click Here for our Naples Website
|