A: There are a few things to consider, including cost, individual needs, and what will add value down the road. Also important: your emotional attachment to the existing home. Often, it is more cost effective to put on an addition than it is to build or buy a new home. Key points to consider are: […]
As you drive through your neighborhood, whether it’s Barclay Farms, Alluvium or Short Hills, you’ve probably noticed that the houses resemble each other in some way. There may be a few different model types in the neighborhood. But typically, homes built between 1955-1985, have a “cookie-cutter” look. Mass production during this time period was in […]
The average cost of a bathroom remodel tops $16,500, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report. Whether you’re looking to update your bathroom to meet your living style now or you’re looking to sell your home in the near future, revamping your bathroom doesn’t have to cost you an arm & a leg to […]
The cool temperatures that quickly returned to us this week, conjure up those comforting images of brilliantly turning leaves, warm apple cider and toasty fires at the hearth. If you are selling your home this Fall, you’ll want to capture the essence of those images and create a warm & inviting atmosphere for potential buyers […]
Remodeling your home, whether to update for resale or just to improve your quality of living, can be amazing and fun. But picture yourself halfway through your kitchen remodel, only to realize the money you budgeted isn’t enough to cover completing the project or unexpected issues that arose. This is a perfect example of why […]
September is National Preparedness Month and we’re now in hurricane season feeling the residual rainbands of Hurricane Isaac. Keeping emergency & survival kits at the ready is a good idea in the event of a natural disaster. But, also have a plan for your important documents. While keeping you & your family safe is the […]
Mortgage rates continued to climb this week, with the average rate on the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rising for the third consecutive week, to 3.86 percent according to Bankrate.com’s weekly national survey. The average 30-yearfixed mortgage has an average of 0.42 discount and origination points. But, let’s keep these numbers in perspective. These rates are […]
While vacationing on a secluded island for peace and relaxation would be a wonderful retreat, you can remove some of the hustle and bustle of your daily routine by creating peaceful escapes throughout your own home. The bathroom, for example, is the only place where you can shut the door and have complete “you time” […]
According to the U.S. Economic and Housing Market Outlook for August released recently from Freddie Mac, the so-called shadow inventory might not be as foreboding as many thought. This is largely attributed to the rate at which excess housing is being absorbed. Other highlights from the Outlook include: •The Freddie Mac House Price Index for […]
A recent analysis of government data by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals that the geographic distribution of households headed by someone age 55 or older is fairly even across most of the country, with more than 30 percent of all households in every state meeting this description. The study sheds valuable light […]
It can be tempting to buy or sell a home on your own. More and more, consumers are gathering information from the internet and feel confident that they have all the information they need to get through the transaction. However, the vast majority of real estate consumers eventually come to realize the many benefits of […]
Whether you’re looking to set up anursery or update your Tween’s bedroom, painting is an easy and cost-effectiveway to create just the right atmosphere. Knowing where & how to start can getoverwhelming. Take your time and think of the following tips to help you choosethe best type and color of paint, while easing the stress. […]
Nothing ruins a new outfit or clean carpet faster than a stain. But between eating on the fly, entertaining friends and taking care of the family, spills happen! “It’s no accident that July honors one of our most fun but also messiest foods,” Bob Kearn, president and CEO of COIT, said, noting that July is […]
There are many reasons to consider downsizing your living space. Maybe you just want less house to maintain and less “junk” to look after. Perhaps your nest is empty and you just don’t need all that space. Or you may be looking for a change of venue; moving to a more urban setting will likely […]
Many of you have your Summer vacations all lined up and are preparing to leave your home in the coming weeks. Summer vacations may be fun, but they can be costly if you fail to prepare your home and property adequately. Burglars see vacations as an opportunity to target empty homes, according to the Insurance […]
When considering bathroom renovation, whether you choose to do an extensive remodel or a smaller project, most kitchen and bath designers agree on these tips: Take size into account. A sleek, stylish glass shower enclosure helps your bathroom appear more spacious, and in most instances, a frameless shower enclosure will provide the cleanest, most open […]
A small kitchen can quickly become cluttered and feel cramped. According to Consumer Reports, a few small upgrades can make a big improvement. To maximize the space you have, rethink where you store things, especially if counter space is at a premium. Here are five additional ways to make every available inch count: Place your […]
Do-it-yourself home improvement can be a great way to add value to your home without having to pay builders or plumbers to do the work. But even the simplest of DIY jobs can quickly turn into an expensive mess when tackled incorrectly. Here’s a look at some of the most costly DIY mistakes to avoid […]
The Deloitte Consumer Spending Index (Index) posted another monthly increase in April as the pace of falling new home prices slowed. The Index tracks consumer cash flow as an indicator of future consumer spending. “The Index has been undergoing a mix of changes as housing, energy prices and unemployment tip back and forth each month,” […]
Welcome to Anne Koons’s Blog! This blog will provide you with valuable information, tips, and general insight into the real estate market in Cherry Hill. Visit my website at http://AnneKoons.featuredwebsite.com.