tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16364221514228585602024-02-07T04:00:41.289-08:00Pasadena with Mark and CynthiaAll Things Pasadena. Business Reviews. Neighborhood Information. Real Estate Updates & Opportunities. Activities. Great Finds.Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-14065993779896483232016-06-15T16:50:00.000-07:002016-06-15T16:50:02.683-07:005 Tips for Selling a Home From Out of State<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
Trying to sell a house is challenging enough, and if you’re selling a home from out of state, it can be positively intimidating.<br />
<br />
Property and maintenance costs can add up quickly on an empty
home, and you don’t want to have to buy special vacant-home insurance.<br />
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Whether you’ve had to relocate because of a new job, are selling a
second home, or are trying to settle the estate of a former relative, a
few simple steps can help you to sell quickly and avoid carrying charges
for property that you’re not living in.<br />
<br />
Remember, when you’re selling a home from out of state, your goal is
to get the best price for your property in a reasonable period.<br />
<br />
If you take the time to address these crucial areas before you carry
on with your life in another state, you’re likely to secure a sale
quickly—so you’re not carrying multiple mortgages or paying for upkeep
on an empty home.<br />
<h2>
<b>1. Choose a Realtor Carefully</b></h2>
Much of the success of the sale of your home is going to hinge on using a realtor, who will be responsible for showing and marketing the home, checking on it in your absence, possibly hiring contractors to handle upgrades and repairs, and ensuring there is a smooth sales transaction.<br />
<br />
With so much riding on your selected real estate agent, interview a
few recommended agents and determine which one you can rely on the most.
You’ll want to find someone to partner with who is readily
available, even if you’re calling from another time zone, and responsive
to potential buyers.<br />
<br />
<h2>
<b>2. Pick the Right Price</b></h2>
Because you’re trying to sell the home quickly, it’s important to price the home accurately rather than test the market with a high figure and take price cuts later.<br />
<br />
Your for-sale listing will have the most impact as soon as it is published.
That’s when you’re most likely to get fair market value for the
home—before people start questioning why your house has sat on the
market for so long.<br />
<br />
Rely on your agent to look at the home and advise you on how best to
price it after looking at comparable home sales. Ask him or her to
predict how long the home will remain on the market at that price
compared to other price points.<br />
<br />
Also be sure to determine in advance the highest and lowest price
you’d want to accept for the home. When multiple people have an interest
in a property—for example, when siblings are selling a deceased
parent’s property—you don’t want to get into last-minute squabbles about
what the property is worth and possibly let a sale fall through.<br />
<h2>
<b>3. De-Clutter</b></h2>
Buyers want a home that looks move-in ready. That means you’ll need to make sure the place is clean and free of clutter.<br />
<br />
If you need to clear out a deceased relative’s belongings, first
remove important documents and heirlooms—and then consider using an
auction company and professional cleaner to get the most value from the
former belongings and to dispose of what is left over.<br />
<br />
Be sure to make any necessary home repairs and don’t ignore cosmetic
upgrades. Although you don’t need to renovate the entire home, it’ll
help to fix major problems, have the home professionally cleaned and
repainted, and show off the hardwood floors.<br />
<br />
With that in mind, before you skip town, you might want to hire an
on-call handyman to address last-minute repairs who can accept online
payments.<br />
<h2>
<b>4. Set the Stage</b></h2>
Because you’re probably taking most of your belongings with you when
you move out of state—or are trying to get rid of a relative’s
belongings if you’re clearing out a home—it’s probably in your best
interest to hire a professional stager who can help your home look its
best.<br />
<br />
Homes that are staged and are appropriately priced consistently sell faster than non-staged properties.<br />
<h2>
<b>5. Take Professional Photos</b></h2>
Once you have everything in its place and are ready to show off your home, do so with professional photos.<br />
<br />
A professional photographer will know how to best capture your home’s
best features. Especially now that many potential home buyers start
shopping online, professional photos can enhance your listing.<br />
<br />
You’d be surprised how many potential home buyers are turned off by
something as trivial as having the toilet seat up in the photo of the
bathroom.Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-57240571913716418682016-06-09T16:31:00.002-07:002016-06-09T16:31:26.864-07:006 Renovations You Should Never Do Yourself<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="reno-for-pros" border="0" height="412" src="http://media.hgtv.ca/blogimages/6renovationsyoushouldneverdoyourself_99ad-reno-for-pros_thumb.jpg" style="border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline;" title="reno-for-pros" width="640" /> </div>
<br />
When it comes to home improvements, it’s difficult to know when to do
it yourself and when to hire a professional. We have the low down on
when to draw the line – it usually involves things like plumbing,
electricity, expensive materials and renovations that are downright
dangerous. So before you try to get handy with a hammer, consult this
list to see what you should never attempt yourself. <br />
<strong></strong> <br />
<strong>Electrical </strong> <br />
When
it comes to making electrical adjustments, there are too many
technicalities to do it on your own. Electrical standards have to be met
so that wires aren’t over-heated, circuit breakers aren’t overworked,
and someone needs to make sure that everything is wired correctly
throughout the house. You need advanced electrical knowledge to do this
job so it’s best to hire a certified electrician. <br />
<strong></strong> <br />
<strong>Breaking Down Walls </strong> <br />
If
you want to break down walls to open up your space, don’t do it
yourself. Walls support the structure of the house, so weight-bearing
and support walls have to be dealt with accordingly. A professional will
have an in-depth understanding of the structure of the house, and
they’ll be able to identify a cosmetic wall versus a support wall to get
the job done right. <br />
<strong></strong> <br />
<strong>Building or Renovating the Bathroom </strong> <br />
Bathroom
renovations that don’t involve moving the plumbing pipes can be done on
your own, but you should hire a plumber for anything more complicated.
If the job isn’t done correctly, it will cause a lot more headaches than
it’s worth. Poorly done pipe installations could lead to leaks that
drip through the drywall and could cause water damage throughout the
house. <br />
<strong></strong> <br />
<strong>Finishing the Basement </strong> <br />
When
it comes to renovating the basement, there’s a lot of room for error.
Before you put up new walls and flooring, you need a professional to
make sure the insulation is correct and that there are no cracks or
leaks in the foundation or on the floor. You’ll also need someone to
take care of the electrical. <br />
<strong></strong> <br />
<strong>Window Renovations</strong> <br />
There
is no shortage of professional window companies who can replace windows
at a low price. For the low cost of this renovation, hire a
professional – if it’s not done properly, it could lead to air leakages
that let hot and cold air escape, ultimately raking up your hydro bill.
<br />
<strong></strong> <br />
<strong>Working with Granite or Marble </strong> <br />
Whether
you’re installing new countertops or tiles, when working with such
expensive materials like granite or marble it’s best to hire a
professional to do the measurements and installation. If you make a
mistake, the cost is too high to make it worth doing it yourself. Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-50321568582220100062016-06-01T13:56:00.000-07:002016-06-01T13:56:53.308-07:00Chimney Tips to Keep You Warm And Safe<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<span>Chimney maintenance and proper</span>
cleaning are key steps to keeping your family safe and warm as the
temperatures drop. Neglected chimneys accumulate creosote, a combustible
byproduct of charred wood, along their walls. Add to that a high
internal flue temperature and you've got a potentially dangerous chimney
fire on your hands.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: center;">
<span><img class="mainImage" data-bm="79" height="213" src="https://www.highschimney.com/articles/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/chimney_caps.jpg" width="320" /></span> </div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
The best way to avoid a house fire caused by the fireplace
or chimney is to hire a professional chimney sweep to inspect for
cracks and loose bricks. He'll also clean your chimney. Chimney
inspections are typically broken down into three categories.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
Level
1 is a standard, annual inspection for chimneys that have no major
changes to investigate. The chimney inspector will examine the interior
and exterior, as well as the chimney connection. The general soundness
of the chimney will be examined, and any obstructions will be noted.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
Level 2 is an inspection that follows a change in fuel type or changes to the shape or materials in the flue.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
Level
3 is rare. These inspections are conducted when a hazard is suspected.
Typically, part of the building or chimney is removed to examine the
chimney thoroughly.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="10" height="213" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/017/0/6420649/il_fullxfull.508721472_kcer.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
Once
your chimney gets the all-clear, you should follow some basic safety
tactics when it comes to your chimney and the vicinity of the fireplace
or wood stove:</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
• Keep
the area in front of the fireplace clear of paper and debris. It can be
tempting during the holidays to place decorations close to the
fireplace, but keep them at a safe distance.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
• If your fireplace doesn't have a glass door, use a wire mesh screen.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
•
Use seasoned hardwoods that have been split for six months to a year.
"Green" wood creates more creosote. Don't burn your Christmas tree (pine
creates more creosote) or be tempted to throw wrapping paper, boxes, or
trash into the fireplace.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
•
Keep the area near the chimney clear. If you have trees that hang over
the house near the chimney, make sure branches and leaves are at least
15 feet away.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
• Cap
your chimney. A top that has wire mesh along the sides will keep out
rain and snow, birds, and other critters that might be running around on
the roof.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
• Think
small. If you try to burn too much wood, the chimney can crack and you
run the risk of creosote build-up. Burn wood on a grate placed near the
back of the fireplace.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
Like
fire, carbon monoxide can be a deadly threat. Carbon monoxide is an
odorless, invisible toxic gas that kills about 400 people per year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and sickens many more.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="86" height="200" src="http://carbonmonoxidedetectoralarms.com/images/CostarRV.jpg" width="200" /> </div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
While
carbon monoxide poisoning can result from poorly functioning home
appliances and heating systems, it can also come from poorly maintained
chimneys. The chimney and chimney connector serve as a furnace's exhaust
system. If debris is blocking the chimney, carbon monoxide can
accumulate inside the house.</div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
<br /></div>
<div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text">
Perhaps
the most important rule of all when it comes to chimney
maintenance is to install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors inside and outside of bedrooms. Replace the batteries each
season and test the detectors regularly. If the detector is more than 10
years old, replace it.</div>
Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-52855615545128839572016-05-25T11:18:00.001-07:002016-05-25T11:18:59.059-07:007 Energy Saving Tips for Improving Indoor Temperatures As Summer Draws Near<div style="text-align: justify;">
Your home can become quite uncomfortable
as the weather warms up in spring and summer, making an air conditioner
something you just can’t do without. Unfortunately, with the increase
in comfort can come a drastic increase in energy bills. Luckily, there
are some simple and inexpensive energy saving measures to help bring
your utility bills down, without sacrificing your comfort!</div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
How Can You Make Your Thermostat More Efficient? </h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<img class="alignedRight" height="297" src="http://www.servicechampions.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Energy-Saving.jpg" width="320" /></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Using
your thermostat efficiently is a key step to reducing the monthly bill.
Here are the top 7 ways to make the most of your HVAC unit in the
warmer months:</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>1. Pick the Right Temperature –</strong>
It may be tempting to set your thermostat at the lowest setting, but
this is guaranteed to guzzle energy. The greater the difference between
outside and inside temperatures, the harder your HVAC unit needs to
work.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Pick the highest temperature you can tolerate (and
preferably no more than 68°F for heating in winter), since the ideal
thermostat setting is 78°F.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>2. Change the Temperature Slowly –</strong> If
you’re used to a lower temperature setting, drastically heating it up
will make you uncomfortable. Instead, try raising it by one degree a
day, giving your body time to adjust to the difference.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /> Also, putting it on a very low setting when you switch it on doesn’t help cool the house faster, this only raises your bills.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="11" data-height="1600" data-width="2400" height="213" src="http://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.Ma1a0ff7f506eeb25f01e78509b38c5e4o0&pid=15.1" style="height: auto; width: auto;" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>3. Keep Hot Air Out –</strong>
Sunlight entering through windows during the day can raise indoor
temperatures. This leads to wasted energy as your air conditioner tries
to cool the house down.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /> Window coverings and treatments like
blackout curtains and blinds can help keep hot air from leaking in. Be
sure to seal any gaps that let warm drafts in.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="10" data-height="360" data-width="460" height="250" src="http://tse2.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.Mdb26ba622c7d0aa95e1acb6bf090977eH0&pid=15.1" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>4. Let Cool Air In –</strong>
If nights are cool in the area where you live, open the windows and
turn off the air conditioner before you sleep (or earlier in the evening
when outside temperatures drop).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /> Close the windows, blinds and
curtains in the morning, and then turn on your cooling unit. This seals
the cool air inside and reduces the impact on the air conditioner.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>5. Minimize Lighting and Appliances –</strong>
Warm lights look nice, but they generate heat that your AC has to
battle. Use energy efficient lighting that runs cooler. Household
appliances also generate heat, so use them as sparingly as possible.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Don’t place appliances or lighting close to thermostats, since the heat
from them can affect the settings and make your HVAC system run for
longer.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="10" height="213" src="http://www.propertymanager.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_thermostat_540x360.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>6. Invest in Smart Thermostats – </strong>Smart or programmable thermostats
are a great way to bring down your cooling (and heating) bills. These
devices let you select different temperature settings for certain times
of the day, which can be automated or even controlled through your
smartphone.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /> This way, your HVAC won’t be running at full capacity when you’re at work, but will kick on before you get home.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="103" height="240" src="http://fortikur.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Contemporer-Home-Depot-Ceiling-Fans.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>7. Upgrade Your Ventilation – </strong>Proper
ventilation can help cool air move through your house more effectively,
keeping temperatures stable everywhere. Installing ceiling fans can
also help with energy saving, as they circulate the air in the room.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
With effective movement of cool air, you can actually set your
thermostat higher and keep your home comfortable at a fraction of the
cost!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You don’t need to place
comfort on the back bench when you want to reduce electricity
consumption. Just follow the tips listed above, learn to use the
thermostat efficiently, and make sure to schedule regular summer maintenance for cooling units.</div>
Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-91635198536795560422016-05-18T15:29:00.001-07:002016-05-18T15:30:31.479-07:0010 Tips for Choosing Carpet<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="51" src="http://geoffhallcarpets.co.uk/wp-content/themes/geoffhallcarpets/images/bg_1280.jpg" height="213" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
Nothing compares to the soft, luxurious feeling of carpet
under your feet. Carpeting provides a safe, comfortable spot for kids
to play and may even reduce the risk of injury during a fall.
Sure, carpet requires a bit of extra maintenance compared to vinyl or
tile, but there's simply no substitute in terms of sound absorption,
warmth and overall comfort.<br />
<br />
With so many different colors, materials and designs available, it
can be difficult to choose the best carpet for your home. Some materials
may require frequent cleanings
that simply won't fit into your busy schedule, others come with a high
price tag and some may even have an effect on your health. The wrong
carpet may wear out quickly, fade or show stains that stubbornly resist
your best cleaning efforts. Protect your investment and choose the best
carpeting for your home with these 10 carpet-buying tips.<br />
<div id="page-title-wrapper">
<div class="list-title h2 media">
<div class="media-body title-name">
</div>
<div class="media-body title-name">
<b>1) Pick the Perfect Padding</b></div>
<div class="media-body title-name">
</div>
<div class="media-body title-name" style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="11" data-height="400" src="http://tse3.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.Mf861195082690db168e504ab41f30011H0&pid=15.1" data-width="740" height="172" width="320" /> </div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
Don't be tempted to skimp on carpet padding to save a few dollars.
Just as a building needs a solid foundation, carpeting relies on a
layer of padding for support, strength and a bit of extra cushioning.
You can't see the padding, but you'll definitely spot the extra wear and
tear on your new carpet if you pick an inadequate padding material.<br />
<br />
Made from rubber
or foam materials, carpet padding conceals subfloor imperfections to
improve the appearance of the finished floor. It also acts as insulation
to help control the temperature of your home, and it even absorbs sound
to protect your privacy and eliminate neighbor noise. Most importantly,
padding supports your carpet through years of use, since it prevents
carpet backing and fibers from coming apart over time.<br />
<br />
Consult your carpet manufacturer for padding recommendations and
advice. Typically, high-traffic areas require firm, dense padding, while
guest bedrooms and other light-traffic rooms may need less protection.<br />
<br />
It's also important to match the padding to the type of carpet you
plan to use. The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends a 7/16-inch
padding with 6 pounds of density per
cubic feet to support cut pile or cut loop carpeting. For Berber or thin
loop rugs, look for a 3/8-inch pad or thinner, with 8
pounds of density per cubic foot. <br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
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<b>2) Consider Various Carpet Styles</b></div>
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<img class="mainImage" data-bm="67" src="http://cmsimg.theleafchronicle.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=DA&Date=20070325&Category=LIFESTYLE09&ArtNo=703250308&Ref=AR&MaxW=640&Border=0&Carpets-add-warm-touch" height="214" width="320" /> </div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
Carpet
comes in many styles, including plush, Saxony, Berber, textured and
frieze. These terms apply to its pile, which is the surface you see,
created from yarn tufts that are either folded over into loops, cut
straight across or both. While each style has a distinctive look, that
shouldn't be your main consideration. Instead, look at how well your
lifestyle meshes with a particular carpet style. Plush carpeting, for
example, is made from tightly twisted pile, and is thick, soft and
inviting. But it also shows footprints and vacuum tracks, and can
develop something called "pooling," or areas that appear shaded because
the normal direction of the carpet fibers has been reversed. Saxony, the
most common type of carpeting, is similar to plush. These carpet styles work best in low-traffic areas like formal living rooms and master bedrooms.<br />
<br />
Berber carpeting, in contrast, is crafted from continuous fiber
loops and is flat and dense. It can have a level loop, cut-and-loop or
multi-level loop design. All of these attributes mean Berber is
extremely durable and doesn't show tracks, soil and stains -- perfect
for high-traffic areas, or places frequented by kids.<br />
<br />
Textured carpeting is made from fibers cut to different heights,
which causes them to reflect light. This makes it difficult to see
tracks and dirt. So this type of carpeting is also great for
high-traffic areas. Some Berbers are textured.<br />
<br />
Friezes are a cut-pile carpet made from slightly twisted fibers. The
look is less formal than plush, but fancier than many textured pieces
or Berber. The carpet feels soft on your feet, yet its fuzziness hides
footprints and dirt well.<br />
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<div class="media-body title-name">
<b>3) Don't Blow Your Budget</b></div>
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</div>
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Even the most luxurious carpet
doesn't have to cost a fortune. Shop around to find carpet that fits
your lifestyle and budget. Always request separate pricing for materials
and installation so you can make an "apples-to-apples" comparison among
different suppliers.<br />
<br />
Make the most of any budget by choosing the best carpet for each
room. For example, stain-resistant products may be worth the splurge in
your busy family room, but more affordable low-traffic carpeting may be
just fine for your guest rooms.<br />
<br />
Consider lifetime replacement and maintenance expenses to keep costs
even lower. If you have kids or pets, try carpet tile instead of rolled
carpeting. Rather than replacing the entire room after a few years of
spills and stains, you can replace single tiles as needed to keep your carpet looking fresh and new.<br />
<br />
Explore different material options before you buy to balance price
and comfort. Wool represents the very best in carpet materials but also
comes with the highest price tag. Nylon and other synthetics
feel similar to wool but are available at lower prices. For
moisture-prone areas like basements or stairways, try cut-rate options
like Olefin or polyester.</div>
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</div>
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<div class="media-body title-name">
<b>4) Select Your Carpet Provider with Care</b></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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You can purchase carpet in a variety of places -- carpet showrooms,
of course, but also flooring companies, furniture stores, large
department stores and even online. While you can end up with beautiful
carpet that's expertly installed using any of these options, your best
bet is to select a reputable establishment that specializes in
carpeting.<br />
<br />
A quality carpet store will carry a large, varied carpet selection,
including different fiber options such as wool, synthetics, blends,
sisal, linen, jute, coir and woven vinyl. Staffers should be able to
easily answer all of your questions and let you take samples home.<br />
<br />
The quality of your carpet's installation is just as important as
the quality of the carpet itself. A second-rate job can leave you with
obvious seams, lumps, bumps and other issues, so look for stores that
employ their own installers. This can be difficult, as most carpet
dealers use subcontractors. While subcontracted carpet installers aren't
necessarily inexperienced, they do tend to be less experienced and less
skilled than full-time employees.
If you can't find a good shop with its own installers, make sure your
carpet dealer's subcontractors have worked with them for many years.<br />
<br />
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<b>5) Understand Maintenance Requirements</b></div>
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</div>
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<img class="mainImage" data-bm="52" src="http://cleaningmaster.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Carpet_Cleaning1.jpg" height="236" width="320" /> </div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
One of the best ways to ensure you'll be satisfied with your new
carpet is to stick with carpeting you can maintain easily. Homeowners
with young children or dogs and cats
may want to avoid hard-to-clean shag or high-end rugs. Stain-resistant
carpets can eliminate the frustration associated with spills and may cut
your cleaning time.<br />
<br />
Always ask a salesperson about cleaning and maintenance requirements
before you commit to buying. Find out how often you'll need to clean
and what special equipment or products the manufacturer recommends. Skip
carpets with extensive maintenance requirements unless you have the
extra time to perform these tasks.<br />
<br />
The type of material and carpet style you choose can also have a
major impact on maintenance. Pick textured rugs to conceal footprints
and vacuum cleaner tracks. In high traffic areas, look for textured
Saxony, level loop or high-density loop carpets to resist dirt and make
cleaning easier. You should only install cut pile and multilevel loop
carpets in low- to medium-traffic areas, as both of these designs tend
to trap dirt and resist cleaning efforts.<br />
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<b>6) A Word on Warranties</b></div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
Carpeting
carries an insane number of possible warranties, including five- and
10-year options, matting and crushing warranties, and guarantees against
stains,
wear and even overall appearance. In general, the better quality the
carpet, the more coverage you're offered via warranties, stain
protection and the like. However, never purchase a particular carpet
solely because the warranty seems really great -- because most
warranties actually offer little true coverage.<br />
<br />
For example, the most common warranty is a "wear" warranty.
Manufacturers offering these typically define "wear" as a bald spot,
while many homeowners consider a carpet to be worn as soon as it loses
its original appearance. Similarly, a crushing warranty may state that
if the pile height can be restored to a certain degree, there's no
issue. But most carpets' pile can be restored through hot water
extraction and a pile rake (even though it will be crushed again once
you walk on it), so manufacturers will say the warranty doesn't apply.<br />
<br />
The most common carpet complaints aren't for manufacturing defects,
anyway, but rather for improper installation. These complaints should
generally be taken to the retailer; before you purchase a carpet,
inquire what recourse you have if you're unhappy with the installation.</div>
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<b>
</b><br />
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<b>7) Compare Color and Patterns</b></div>
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<img class="mainImage" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a5/Swatches_of_carpet_1.jpg" height="184" width="320" /> </div>
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With so many colors and designs available, selecting the right finish just might be the most difficult part of your carpet-buying
decision. Narrow your search by choosing shades that match the overall
mood or tone you want to set for each room. Try cool blues or greens to
create a calm, peaceful setting, and warm reds or golden shades to make a
large space feel cozier. Light colors can make small rooms feel larger
and more open, so try cream or tan if you're feeling claustrophobic.<br />
<br />
Before settling on a neutral shade, decide whether you want your
carpet to serve as a focal point or fade into the background. Only go
neutral if your walls, furnishings or artwork serve as focal points, as this can help you avoid a plain, monotone design.<br />
<br />
Dark shades or patterns can hide stains, as can tweed or textured
carpet designs. To make patterned rugs work with other patterns in a
room, stick to designs within the same color family.
For maximum versatility, use carpet tiles to create your own patterns
and designs or to add a border around the perimeter of the room.<br />
<br />
Always ask for carpet samples of each color you're considering. Try
to get the biggest samples available, and take them home to examine them
in natural light before you buy. Keep in mind that sun exposure can
fade colored carpeting, so choose fade-resistant products if your carpet
will be in direct sunlight.<br />
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<b>8) Treat Stairs Carefully</b></div>
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</div>
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<b><img class="mainImage" data-bm="49" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAHGUJvYvjWNYJZs0-5l4MvKawhp1pVuxVK5wt89RXiHzI79HKr9s2mm0jwnd_VABCZoT0bx8ruTwU-e6lzRIoPfvOOC7nZ6P_8ezDeSeVlQZ2sQiLFezLzM8S1O079TmOL-wW3u_o08/s320/DSCF2847.JPG" width="240" /> </b></div>
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It's critical to select the right carpeting for your stairs,
since stairs get a lot of wear, plus the carpeting has to be bent over
the edges of each step. A cut-pile carpet is a better choice than a
looped pile, as the spaces between the loops will tend to open up where
the carpet curls over the stairs in an effect called "grinning." Looped
carpets can also snag, especially at any seams or transition areas.<br />
Density is another factor to consider. If the carpet isn't that
thick, you may end up seeing the unsightly backing when the carpet is
curved over the steps. One test of the density is to stick your fingers
deeply into a carpet sample. If you can easily separate the fibers and
feel the backing, it's probably not the best choice for your stairs.<br />
<br />
The ideal choice, actually, is a woven wool carpet. Woolen carpets
are the most durable, and their woven backing helps keep each piece of
yarn in place, which is especially important for stairs. Unfortunately, wool carpets are pricey.</div>
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<b>9) Go Green</b></div>
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</div>
<br />
Many people are shocked to learn just how much carpet, padding and
adhesives can impact air quality and health. If you've ever been around
brand-new carpet or other building materials, you probably remember that
distinctive "new" smell. That odor is caused by volatile organic
compounds (VOCs). VOCs, such as formaldehyde, cause poor indoor air quality and can contribute to a host of health problems, including asthma and allergies. Protect your family by choosing carpet made from natural products, including wool, jute and other organic materials. Also, look for organic or chemical-free dyes to keep toxic fumes out of your home.<br />
<br />
In addition to impacting your health, your choice of carpet can also
affect the environment. Reduce your impact with recycled materials,
such as carpets made from recycled water bottles. Many manufacturers
also use recycled carpeting to produce new rugs, so check the
recycled-content percentage before you buy. Keep in mind that nylon and
other synthetics are made primarily from fossil fuel byproducts, so
choose renewable or recycled products for maximum sustainability.<br />
<br />
If you want to go green but feel overwhelmed by your options,
consider eco-friendly carpet labeling programs sponsored by independent
reviews. The Carpet and Rug Institute's Green Label Plus program or the Green Seal
certification program can each provide valuable information on how
different carpet options will impact the environment and your family's
health.<br />
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<b>10) Carpeting vs. Area Rugs</b></div>
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<b><img class="mainImage" data-bm="73" src="http://cdnll.touchofclass.com/images/xxl/D908-001.jpg" height="320" width="320" /> </b></div>
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<br />
It's possible you'd be better served with an area rug and not wall-to-wall carpeting.
How do you know? Consider the two. Carpeting's main advantages are that
it's soft and warm underfoot, muffles sound and provides cushioning if
you fall. It's also affordable. However, carpet holds dust, mites and
other allergens, so if members of your household have allergies
or asthma, it can be a problem. Carpet can also be difficult to clean,
holds odors like pet urine and typically wears out within about 10
years, so you'll need to re-carpet -- and sometimes not just the one
room with the really worn carpet, but the entire house, depending on
where the carpet runs.<br />
<br />
Area rugs are a popular flooring choice because they come in a
larger variety of colors and designs, can be switched among rooms and
are quite affordable. It’s also easier to make a statement with a fun or
colorful area rug than it is with wall-to-wall carpeting, and you can
take your rug with you every time you move. The main drawback to an area
rug is that it requires you to have reasonably nice flooring underneath
it, since some of your floor will almost certainly show. If you’ve got a
beautiful hardwood floor, perfect. If you don’t, you’ll at least need a
floor that’s in reasonably good shape. The other negatives to area rugs
are that they can slip and/or be a tripping hazard if you stumble on an
edge. But you can often remedy those issues with a rug pad or
double-sided tape.Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-32740472691517344512016-05-11T16:40:00.001-07:002016-05-11T16:40:59.829-07:00House-Cleaning Secrets<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" itemprop="image" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/296027/slide_296027_2420314_free.jpg" width="213" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> </b></div>
<b>Look Down... And Then Slightly Up</b><br />
<br />
It happens all the time: a client walks into a home that is beautifully decorated and looks
magnificent at eye level -- and the floors have
clearly been Swiffered -- but the baseboards are covered in dust. It's not just people who are shopping for homes who register
this, but anyone who comes to your house. Little things can go a very
long way toward making a buyer, a visitor or even yourself fall in love
with a home. Use a damp cloth on your baseboards to remove unwanted dust; you could also
try a microfiber rag dipped in warm, soapy water and wrung almost dry. And if your baseboards are scuffed, keep a touch-up kit handy so you can touch up scrapes as you clean.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" itemprop="image" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/296027/slide_296027_2420315_free.jpg" width="213" /> </div>
<br />
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<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-title">
<b>Keep Flowers Looking (And Smelling) Like Flowers</b></div>
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</div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-caption">
Everyone
loves fresh flowers, but droopy blooms or a something's-not-right
bouquet? Not so much. To get arrangements to
stay fresh, start with a really clean, clear glass vase. The one you
grabbed out of the cabinet and quickly rinsed out before filling with
water might look fine in the morning, but once afternoon sunlight is
streaming in, you may notice it's not sparkling -- and that cloudiness
(which often is a sign of bacteria) can accelerate the flowers' decay.
So wash the container with a few drops of bleach and hot water first. Longest-lasting blossoms are sunflowers in warm
weather and mums in cooler seasons.</div>
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</div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-caption" style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" itemprop="image" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/296027/slide_296027_2420316_free.jpg" width="213" /> </div>
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</div>
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<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info">
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-title">
<b>Upgrade Your Bathroom For Less Than $65</b></div>
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</div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-caption">
Aside from keeping the bathroom clean, there's another foolproof way to make this space look fresh and inviting, Sloane says: white towels, a white shower curtain and a white bathmat.
The only caveat: Nothing looks worse than those accessories appearing
dirty or stained. So every season, machine wash them with detergent and
hot water. If they aren't pristine, replace them.</div>
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</div>
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<img height="320" itemprop="image" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/296027/slide_296027_2420317_free.jpg" width="213" /> </div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-caption">
</div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-caption">
<b>Beware The Sheet Avalanche</b> </div>
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</div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-caption">
We've all shoved things in the hall closet when guests are coming over,
just wanting to get the clutter out of sight... and who's going to look
in there, anyway? Actually, people searching for powder
rooms do open doors -- and linen closets are a typical target. The last
thing you want them to see is an avalanche of towels and sheets, so be advised to keep everything in neat stacks. (An added
benefit is that you won't later be the victim of a linen shower.) The
right distance between shelves can make a big difference: Towel shelves
should be about 14 inches high; for sheets, about 10 inches should be
sufficient. You can also leave a bar of your favorite soap or a sachet in the closet to lightly perfume linens.</div>
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</div>
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<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__nav" style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" itemprop="image" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/296027/slide_296027_2420318_free.jpg" width="213" /></div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__nav">
<br /></div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info">
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-title">
<b>Don't Just Wipe The Front Of The Fridge</b></div>
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</div>
<div class="slideshow-overlay__container__left__info__slide-caption">
Just
as people like to peek inside closets, they also open refrigerators --
and you would be amazed at how many clean homes have dirty fridges. Spills
that have become thick and sticky, funky smells, and food piled every
which way are some of the biggest problems. Before you put ketchup,
mustard or jelly away, wipe off the rim and bottom. Every few days, do a
sweep for food that's past its prime. And give the fridge itself a good
scrub regularly: Empty the contents, store them in a cooler, turn off
the power, and let the shelves and drawers come to room temperature before you wash them, since glass and ceramic parts could crack if they come into contact with hot water when they are cold.</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-6042042033700357962016-05-04T16:49:00.001-07:002016-05-04T16:49:36.977-07:00How to Choose a Wall Color“Color is a powerful tool,” says interior designer and author Kerrie Kelly.
“It can accentuate architectural details as well as direct traffic and
create flow in your home.” But how do you choose the color that’s right
for a given room?<br />
<br />
<div class="parbase smartbody section text customRTE">
<b>Spend some time with a color wheel to see what you like.</b> You
remember this tool from high school art class; it shows all the colors
of the spectrum arranged in a circle and highlights the relationships
between them. You may find yourself naturally gravitating to one side of
the circle (say, cool blues and greens) or the other (warm reds and
oranges). “Blues are all about tranquility and relaxation,” Kelly says.
“Reds and rich earth tones are social-gathering colors. Choose according
to how you’re going to use the room and the mood you want to create.”<br />
</div>
<div class="parbase smartbody section text customRTE">
<b>Check in with trends. </b>Some perennial combinations never lose
their charm, Kelly says, like crisp blue-and-white kitchens or calming
green bedrooms. But new ideas are exciting, too:</div>
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<img alt="Sunny Kitchen With Contrasting Quartzite and Walnut Counters" class="photo-gallery-launch" src="http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2014/5/19/0/original_Kathleen-Walsh-Vermont-quartzite-kitchen-countertop.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.jpeg" data-type="launch-gallery-modal" height="239" title="Sunny Kitchen With Contrasting Quartzite and Walnut Counters" width="320" /></div>
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A strong movement toward natural, eco-friendly materials has put granite tones, greens, browns, and whites in the spotlight.</div>
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<img alt="Marble Island in Green Transitional Kitchen" class="photo-gallery-launch" src="http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2014/5/30/0/DP_Laura-Dalzell-traditional-mint-green-kitchen-island_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.jpeg" data-type="launch-gallery-modal" height="239" title="Marble Island in Green Transitional Kitchen" width="320" /></div>
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Whether you go neutral or bold on the wall, try accenting with
metallic paints on furniture, lighting, plumbing, and accessories.
“Silver, gold, bronze, copper, and pearl add elegance without being too
heavy,” Kelly says. “In daylight, these colors appear neutral; in the
light of evening, they impart a welcoming glow.”</div>
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<img class="photo-gallery-launch" src="http://diy.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/diy/fullset/2015/4/27/0/CI-Kerrie-Kelly-Design%20Lab_blue-modern-dining-room-wood-table_h.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.jpeg" data-type="launch-gallery-modal" height="213" width="320" /></div>
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<div class="parbase smartbody section text customRTE">
If you want to make a statement, strong color palettes derived from
Russian, Indian, and Latin design are on trend; blend them with
traditional colors or neutrals for a thoroughly modern look.</div>
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<br />
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<img alt="Fuchsia and Brown Moroccan-Inspired Bedroom" class="photo-gallery-launch" src="http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2014/11/24/0/Jennifer-Dyer_Brack-Residence_Bedroom.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.jpeg" data-type="launch-gallery-modal" height="213" title="Fuchsia and Brown Moroccan-Inspired Bedroom" width="320" /></div>
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Technology-inspired saturated colors like lime green, royal blue,
apple red, sunshine yellow, and tangerine radiate energy and lend a
sense of richness to a room.</div>
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<img alt="Eclectic Living Room With Eclectic Furniture" class="photo-gallery-launch" src="http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2014/3/26/0/DP_Donna-Puzifera-mixed-color-eclectic-living-room_h.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.jpeg" data-type="launch-gallery-modal" height="239" title="Eclectic Living Room With Eclectic Furniture" width="320" /></div>
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<b>Use color relationships as your guide, but be willing to experiment. </b>Complementary
colors are those that lie opposite each other on the color wheel — that
means they’re visually balanced, although the high contrast may be more
drama than you want in a room. “Approximately opposite colors work
well, too,” Kelly says. “For example, sage green (a yellow-green) pairs
beautifully with violet. Sometimes combinations are more interesting
when the colors aren’t direct opposites.” You may also like the look of
an analogous color scheme, which pairs colors that lie directly next to
each other on the wheel; these combinations are common in nature, so we
tend to find them pleasing.</div>
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<img alt="Multicolored Eclectic Dining Room With Art Deco Flair" class="photo-gallery-launch" src="http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2015/1/16/0/Tobi-Fairley_Riverside-Penthouse_dining-room.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.822.jpeg" data-type="launch-gallery-modal" height="320" title="Multicolored Eclectic Dining Room With Art Deco Flair" width="239" /></div>
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<b>Layer tone on tone for a sophisticated effect.</b> “A
monochromatic color combination uses shades of a single color,” Kelly
says, “to create an effect that’s serene and elegant. The key to success
with this approach, because it’s so subtle, is to add texture and use
varying scales of pattern in the materials you choose.”</div>
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<img alt="Great Room Lighting Ideas" class="photo-gallery-launch" src="http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgrm/fullset/2014/8/12/0/Original_BPF-Holiday-House_hgrm_great-room-lighting_beauty_h.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.jpeg" data-type="launch-gallery-modal" height="239" title="Great Room Lighting Ideas" width="320" /></div>
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<b>Go for a test drive.</b> Paint swatches won’t tell you everything
you need to know. Buy the manufacturer’s test size in your new color and
brush some on the wall (preferably where you can hide it with a picture
later). “Look at your paint sample in the morning, at noon and at
night,” Kelly advises, so that you can see how the color changes as the
light quality changes. </div>
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<img class="photo-gallery-launch" src="http://diy.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/diy/fullset/2015/4/27/0/CI-Kerrie-Kelly-Design%20Lab_dark-blue-modern-dining-room_v.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.jpeg" data-type="launch-gallery-modal" height="320" width="213" /></div>
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<b>Don’t hold back. </b>If you’re looking to inject some personality
into a humdrum space, don’t be afraid to slather on a big, expressive
color for the walls. You can always combine that bold wall color with
neutral furnishings to make a statement without creating a headache.
“There’s really no reason not to experiment with paint on walls, because
it doesn’t represent a big investment to do it or to change it later,”
Kelly says. “Color is undoubtedly the shortest route to a dramatic
setting.”</div>
Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-59541680475669728652016-04-27T16:13:00.003-07:002016-04-27T16:13:52.199-07:00 Planning Your Front-Yard Landscape<div class="topinfoandtoolbar2 topinfoandtoolbar">
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The front yard is the place most people fix first
-- and for good reason. Often, it's what others see, and that the
family sees most often.</div>
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Plan a Walkway that Flows</span></h2>
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<a class="bhgpopup enlargeLink" data-url="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/08/101571058.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" href="http://www.bhg.com/gardening/design/styles/planning-your-front-yard-landscape/#">
<img alt="" class=" lazyloaded" content="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/08/101571058.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/08/101571058.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" data-src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/08/101571058.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" height="320" itemprop="contentUrl" width="320" />
</a>
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<ul><span itemprop="mainContentOfPage" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/WebPageElement"><span itemprop="text">
<li>Follow natural access patterns when laying out walks. If you don't,
children or dogs will carve their own paths right through your prize
petunias. A straight path, though less charming, is the shortest and
least expensive, and sometimes the most sensible. </li>
</span></span></ul>
<ul><span itemprop="mainContentOfPage" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/WebPageElement"><span itemprop="text">
<li>Use curves, jogs, or steps only where there is a reason, not just to
meander. Combine practicality with visual appeal by making walks at
least 36 inches wide. If scale permits, 42 to 54 inches is better so two
people can walk together. For an illusion of greater or lesser
distance, widen one end. Extra width at curves is pleasant.</li>
</span></span></ul>
<ul><span itemprop="mainContentOfPage" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/WebPageElement"><span itemprop="text">
</span><span itemprop="text">
<li>Make walls, fences, or hedges near walks less than 2 feet so people
can swing their arms or carry packages without feeling crowded. Between
the walk and taller verticals, a buffer zone of ground cover, lawn,
flowers, or mulch at least 2 feet wide gives more room for movement.</li>
</span><br />
<span itemprop="text">
<li>To add interest to walks, choose brick patterns or exposed-aggregate
textures. If you have plain concrete walks, cover them with brick
pavers, slate, or tile. Loose materials like tanbark or wood chips are
fine for natural garden paths farther away from the house, but they result in too much tracking in if used for the front yard.</li>
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</span></span></ul>
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Assess Your House from the Outside</span></h2>
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<span itemprop="mainContentOfPage" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/WebPageElement"><span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject">
<img alt="" class=" lazyloaded" content="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/02/12760754.gif.rendition.largest.jpg" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/02/12760754.gif.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" data-src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/02/12760754.gif.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" height="320" itemprop="contentUrl" width="307" /> <span class="mediaCaption"> </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span itemprop="mainContentOfPage" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/WebPageElement"><i><span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="mediaCaption">Standard plantings fora one-story house often lack design. Here the small shrubs make the house look drab and out of place.</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span itemprop="mainContentOfPage" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/WebPageElement"><span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"><span class="mediaCaption"><i> </i></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span itemprop="mainContentOfPage" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/WebPageElement"><span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"></span><span itemprop="text">The builder's bit of lawn, two trees, and few foundation shrubs fall far short of the existing possibilities. Street-scaping is an excellent investment in both present
enjoyment and future value. A pleasant view from the street gives a
sense of individual pride and accomplishment. And it adds greatly to
your property's value by setting the yard apart and making it beautiful.<br />
<br />
The first thing to do when planning a new front yard is to recognize
your bias. The satisfaction of returning home and that you see your
front yard from inside the house can skew your feelings about how your
yard looks to the public. For a more honest assessment, walk down the
street, then turn back. Do the same from the other direction. Also, get
in your car and approach your house slowly from each direction.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"><span class="mediaCaption">Shorter shrubs, a planter, and
better-placed trees frame the
facade, soften its lines, and
wed the house to the site.</span></span></i></span><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
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<span itemprop="text">Does your house blend with those nearby? Is it
appealing? Distinctive? Does it sit well on the site or look out of
place? Does it need stronger horizontal or vertical lines? Does it
nestle among the trees? List all its virtues and shortcomings.<br />
<br />
When
you go to other houses, take note of the convenience of their
entryways. Can you easily see where to turn into the drive? Is the drive
wide enough for you to open your car door and get out without stepping
on plants or grass? Can you easily tell which door to approach? Are walks and steps easily negotiated?<br />
<br />
Take
what you learn during these studies and carefully weigh your front
yard's planting needs -- street trees, trees and shrub for framing and
accent, flowers, lawn, and ground covers -- and its structural needs --
walks, steps, drive, stoop, edgings, and fences.</span></div>
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Plants and Structures</h2>
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<img alt="" class=" lazyloaded" content="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/06/SIP945680.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/06/SIP945680.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" data-src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/06/SIP945680.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" height="320" itemprop="contentUrl" width="320" />
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<ul><span itemprop="text">
<li>The architectural features of your yard will be the most expensive
and permanent. You may want to plan them in stages: the driveway first,
good steps and walks next, porch or fence the next year. Select
materials that will add to your landscape, not ruin its harmony. </li>
</span></ul>
<ul><span itemprop="text">
<li>Plantings are easier to install and change, but you'll want to be
sure to put them in the right places so they can quickly play a role. </li>
</span></ul>
<ul><span itemprop="text">
<li>Trees, shrubs, and ground covers are permanent purchases that
increase in size and value and take little maintenance. You can even use
many edible plants in place of or along with ornamental plants. They present
little extra work except for harvesting. </li>
</span></ul>
<ul><span itemprop="text">
<li>Flowers take care and often require replanting, but they can fill in
the gaps until your woody plants gain enough size to stand alone.
Annuals -- like kochia, four-o'clock, strawflower, impatiens, datura,
and angel's-trumpet -- and perennials -- like peony, bee balm, and hosta
-- can substitute for shrubs the first year or two. </li>
</span></ul>
<ul><span itemprop="text">
<li>Lawns take the most resources, work, and equipment of any aspect of
landscaping. To conserve both fossil and human energy, consider
alternatives to lawn, especially in regions where rainfall is
inadequate. </li>
</span></ul>
<ul><span itemprop="text">
<li>If your front yard is too large for constant mowing and watering,
use mulch or ground covers for islands around trees and shrubs. Fence or
mark off an area for turf and use the rest for meadow, pasture, or
woodland. Don't let your front yard make you a slave to more work than
you enjoy. </li>
</span></ul>
<ul><span itemprop="text">
</span></ul>
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Plan a Functional Entryway</h2>
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Pay particular attention when planning your front yard to making your home's entrance clear and inviting. Use plants
and structures to lead people where you can greet them most gracefully.
Dramatize the front door with a lamppost, an accent shrub, a trellis to
block the rain or wind, or pots of geraniums.<br />
<br />
Be sure knockers and bells are evident, at a convenient height, and
not hidden behind a locked screen door. The best stoops are large enough
for two people to stand on with some cover from the elements and for
doors to swing open. A bench here is a great help.<br />
<br />
Driveways, too, should be readily visible. A simple, low planting can
mark the turn. If trees or shrubs obstruct the view, remove them for
safety's sake. Where curves or slopes are involved, the placement of the
driveway on one side of the yard or another can make a marked increase
in visibility.<br />
<br />
For night arrivals, lighting should mark the turn from the road to
the drive, from the drive to the walk, any curves or steps, and the
front door.<br />
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Steps</h2>
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Make steps as wide as the walks they connect. Steps should be emphatic and noticeable. A plant
accent can help. So can a change of texture. Never use just one step. If
the slope is that slight, use a ramp. Three steps are the ideal
minimum, though two are acceptable.<br />
<br />
Check regularly that your steps are safe and not slick in snow or
rain. Try to create at least one step-less entrance into your house for
wheelchair visitors or possible future or emergency use. Or make
conditional plans for a ramp, avoiding any plantings that would
interfere.<br />
</span>
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Edgings and Borders</h2>
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<img alt="" class=" lazyloaded" content="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/07/100028819.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/07/100028819.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" data-src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/07/100028819.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" height="320" itemprop="contentUrl" width="240" /> <span class="mediaCaption"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"><span class="mediaCaption">Lily-of-the-valley works great for edging walkways.</span></span></i></span><br />
<br />
</div>
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<span itemprop="text">Edgings give an important and neat outline to your
yard, as well as dramatic contrasts of form, texture, and color. For
permanent neatness, build in small concrete curbs; set bricks on edge,
on end, or diagonally; lay landscape timbers; stand flagstones or tiles
on edge; or install one of the ready-made edgings available in garden
centers. Metal or rubber strips are less lovely, but they are
inexpensive and serviceable.<br />
<br />
Borders of flowers, bulbs, or ground covers can be used with, or instead of, other edgings. Use the plants with the proper ultimate spread and good year-round appearance. Don't set the plants so close to the walk that they overgrow it.<br />
</span>
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Creating an Attractive Front</h2>
<span itemprop="text">
Every house facade and site have visual assets and
liabilities. The well-done front yard highlights the pleasing points and
masks the poor ones.<br />
<br />
All the elements of good design come into play as you arrange your
component parts for the ideal front yard. But don't be put off by the
aesthetic terms -- balance, scale, unity, and the like -- used by
designers. All are largely a matter of common sense. If a scene pleases
your eye, then it's probably well designed.<br />
<br />
If your house needs or will adapt to your desire for a special theme
garden like colonial, cottage, Oriental, or Spanish, the look must begin
in the front yard. Themes are successful only if you unify all the
garden aspects carefully.<br />
<br />
You'll also need to determine if your preference is for, and your
site demands, a formal or informal landscape. Formal settings include
strong geometric lines and architectural features, clipped hedges, and
uniformly shaped plants and beds. Informal designs are marked by
free-flowing, natural-looking elements. Generally, informal home styles
and sloping land require less rigid landscapes. Formal houses and flat
land can be treated either way.<br />
<br />
To achieve balance in a landscape, try to position elements so they
give equal weight -- through size, color, texture, or other aspects --
to each side of a scene. How formal this weighting should be again is
dictated by style of house and personal preference. Symmetrical houses
often look best when each feature and plant is duplicated on the
opposite side of a front walk (as long as the walk isn't too long or too
narrow). Most houses, though, are asymmetrical, since they have only
one garage or drive. In this case, balance is more subtle. Perhaps a
tall tree belongs on the side opposite the driveway.<br />
Achieving pleasant scale -- or, keeping elements in proportion to each other -- is also subtle, since plants must grow before you can be sure. Choose plants that will complement your home's size at maturity, as well as some plants that will grow fast enough to quickly make a mark. Don't let anything dwarf your house.<br />
<br />
The design principles of unity and simplicity often go together. Several plants
of the same color and kind have more effect and give greater pleasure in
a landscape than one each of several types. Use only enough variety for
sustaining bloom and adding visual interest.<br />
<br />
If you want more types of plants, say for continual harvests of many kinds of fruit, try combining plants with similar or at least compatible shapes, textures, and foliage or bloom colors.<br />
</span>
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Trees for Impact</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject">
<img alt="" class=" lazyloaded" content="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/02/12760757.gif.rendition.largest.jpg" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/02/12760757.gif.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" data-src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/02/12760757.gif.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" height="320" itemprop="contentUrl" width="309" /><span class="mediaCaption"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"><span class="mediaCaption">Here, the tree in front frames rather
than interrupts the scene,
is in better scale, and makes the house
seem farther from the street.</span></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"><span class="mediaCaption"> </span>
</span><span itemprop="text">
</span></div>
<span itemprop="text">Trees (and larger shrubs) are the first components to consider in front-yard design. Because
a framed view often is much more attractive than a completely revealed
view, give serious thought to planting taller trees on either side of
your house and at least one behind it. Trees here give the yard and
house a look of permanence, and soften the second story or roofline
against the sky. If you can afford only one or two more-mature trees,
than plant them here.<br />
<br />
Besides providing framing, trees and larger
shrubs, along with the buildings, make up the masses in the landscape.
Choose and place them for interest of outline, texture, and color in all
seasons and for shade and energy control. Harmonize the shapes of the plants
-- round, pyramidal, weeping -- with each other and the structures. Give
visual relief by judiciously varying leaf size and shape and the
textures of structural materials.<br />
<br />
Trees and shrubs also are good for marking boundaries and separating functional areas.<br />
</span>
</div>
</div>
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<h2 itemprop="headline">
Accent Trees</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a class="bhgpopup enlargeLink" data-url="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/07/100230519.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" href="http://www.bhg.com/gardening/design/styles/planning-your-front-yard-landscape/#">
<img alt="" class=" lazyloaded" content="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/07/100230519.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/07/100230519.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" data-src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2007/07/100230519.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" height="320" itemprop="contentUrl" width="320" /></a></span><span itemprop="text"> </span></div>
<br />
<span itemprop="text">To add beauty and perhaps additional shade to a front
yard, carefully situate very choice -- or accent -- trees between the
street and the house. Accent trees make such a lasting impression, you
may well identify certain houses by the dogwood or Japanese maple in the
front yard. When selecting accent -- also called specimen or ornamental
-- trees, use reliable native types with good habits and few pest
problems.<br />
<br />
</span>
</div>
</div>
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<div class="clearfix">
<span itemprop="text">
In the past, plants were set where house meets ground
to hide foundations and first-floor basements. Today, these so-called
foundation plantings are often inappropriate and widely abused. Builders
put in plants with enough size but little character, and they can soon
outgrow their usefulness. Many houses come with a surrounding cloud or a
border of stiffly spotted evergreens that destroy a house's style.<br />
Plants
near the house are essential only to soften its angles and help it blend
in with its surroundings. Concentrate on the complete setting, not just
the foundation line. Your plantings here should be simple and
dignified. They should be in careful scale so they enhance rather than
hide the house. You won't see these plants from inside except for perhaps a little by the windowsill, so don't waste your beauties here.<br />
</span>
</div>
</div>
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Raised Planting Beds</h2>
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<img alt="" class=" lazyloaded" content="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2010/03/100232295.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2010/03/100232295.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" data-src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2010/03/100232295.jpg.rendition.largest.ss.jpg" height="320" itemprop="contentUrl" width="320" /> </span></div>
<span class="storyImage image-ss" itemprop="associatedMedia" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/ImageObject"> </span><span itemprop="text"> </span><br />
<span itemprop="text">Raised planting beds are often used instead of or
together with foundation plantings. Build them deep enough to provide
ample soil for root growth and bottomless so the bedding soil mixes with
the soil below.</span><br />
<span itemprop="text"><br />
Because soil in raised beds dries out more quickly than in the ground (and because few plants can withstand full sun plus the heat reflected from house walls), place beds in spots that receive shade for part of the day.</span><br />
<span itemprop="text"><br />
Plants here have star billing. Be sure they are hardy, are of
appropriate ultimate size, and have neat, season-long appearance. Choose
dwarf evergreens, flowering shrubs, fruit trees, perennials, or bulbs.
For the most profusion and longest season of bloom, rely on annuals.
Cascading petunia, vinca, and asparagus fern look lovely hanging over a
bed's edges. Leave some edges clear, though, for sit-down gardening or
just sitting down.</span><br />
<span itemprop="text"><br />
</span>
</div>
</div>
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<div class="clearfix">
<span itemprop="text">
The old rule that the front yard is for the public
and the backyard is for fun and family is sometimes better broken. Is
your front yard the sunniest in a cool climate? The coolest in summer?
On the south side where tender plants and fruit can best survive the
cold? The largest part of your yard? Then reclaim some or all of it for
private family use. A wall, fence, or sometimes only a small screen can
give you the privacy you need.<br />
</span>
</div>
</div>
</span>Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-71996426785014429872016-04-20T15:15:00.000-07:002016-04-20T15:17:44.963-07:00How to Inspect Your Home for Termites<div class="row">
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Termites are unwanted
visitors that can cause extreme damage to homes and other structures. If
you live in an area where termites are common, beware that the insects
could raid your home. Attracted by moisture, wood and the steady
temperature of a house, termites need only the tiniest cracks to begin
infesting the home. If you suspect or fear that you have termites in
your home, check for tell-tale signs or call a professional termite inspector.
</div>
</div>
<div class="row">
<div class="col-xs-12">
</div>
</div>
<h2>
Signs of Termite Infestation</h2>
Some of the following is taken from the NPCA Field Guide to
Structural Pests, available through the NPCA (National Pest Control
Association) Resource Center.
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="How termites enter home" class="scalable" src="http://www.doityourselftermitecontrol.com/images/howtermitesenterhome.jpg" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Termite wood damage" class="scalable" src="http://www.doityourselftermitecontrol.com/images/termitewooddamage.gif" /></div>
<br />
The following list indicates common signs of a subterranean
termite infestation. It is recommended that you have your house
thoroughly inspected by a pest control professional trained to detect
the sometimes subtle signs of termites at least once a year. <br />
<ul>
<li> The presence of mud-like material that lines the galleries in an irregular pattern. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Termites may excavate the wood so that only a very thin
layer of wood is left on the surface of the cavity and the outside. Then
this layer is broken; they will cover the holes with mud like material,
used to make the tubes. This is a mixture of soil, feces, and saliva. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Swarmers: The appearance of a swarm of what you
would call "flying ants",especially near light sources This indicates a
nest may be near. A "swarm" is a group of adult male and female
reproductive termitess that leave their nest to establish a new colony. Swarming
occurs when a colony reaches a certain size. Swarming is most common in
the spring (March, April, May, and June) and occasionally autumn
(September and October). </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Most swarmers emerge during the day, most frequently
on warm days after rain. Swarmers found outdoors near tree stumps,
railroad ties, etc., are not an indication that your house is infested
but are present on the outside only. On the other hand, finding swarmers
indoors often means that you have a termite infestation within your
house. At first glance, swarmers and ants look similar, but can be
distinguished by certain physical features. At Differences between ants
and termites, there is a picture and list of differences. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Mud Tunnels: Subterranean termites maintain their
headquarters in the ground and build "mud tubes", pencil-size, that
connect the nest (moisture) to the food source (wood).The tunnels may
contain broken mud particles with fecal materials. Mud tubes or shelter
tubes are proof of termite infestation, but their absence does not
necessarily mean that a structure is free of termites. The insects may
reach sills and other wood members through cracks or voids in the
foundation wall, under the outside stucco, or from earth-filled porches,
steps, terraces, or patios. You can break open tubes to determine if
termites are still active inside. Termites often rebuild damaged tubes,
another indication of continued activity. Old tubes are dry and will
crumble easily. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Subterranean termites construct four types of tubes
or tunnels. Working tubes (left) are constructed from nests in the soil
to wooden structures; they may travel up concrete or stone foundations.
Exploratory and migratory tubes (center) arise from the soil but do not
connect to wood structures. Drop tubes (right) extend from wooden
structures back to the soil.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="scalable" src="http://www.doityourselftermitecontrol.com/images/3termitetubes.gif" height="140" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li> Piles of wings: The shed wings of swarmers indicate termites have entered their next phase of development.<br />
<br />
</li>
<li> Live termites: Reproductive kings and queens are 1/2" long,
winged and black or brown in color. Workers are sterile and usually
hidden within infested wood. They are 1/4" long, wingless and white.
However, the absence of finding live termites does not mean that they
are not present in the structure. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Buckling paint or tiny holes on the wood. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Damaged wood: Wood may appear crushed at structural bearing
points. Termite damaged wood resonates with a dull thud (hollow
sound)when tapped with a hammer. Pick and probe the surface of an
infested piece of wood with a pen knife and you will find tunnels
running parallel to the wood's grain. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Finding termites in a structure does not mean you have an
immediate emergency because the rate at which damage occurs is
relatively slow.</li>
</ul>
<h2>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="howtoinspectfortermiteactivity" name="howtoinspectfortermiteactivity"></a>How to Inspect for Termite Activity</h2>
You will need a good flashlight, screwdriver or pocketknife and
coveralls. Look at possible trouble spots closely. Often this means
crawling in crawl spaces. The presence of swarmers or their shed wings
almost always indicates termite activity. A complete termite inspection
would mean locating exposed shelter tubes and damaged wood.<br />
<br />
Generally speaking, Subterranean termites are found at or near ground
level. However, in warmer areas of the country they occasionally occur
above the first floor level.<br />
<br />
Termite damage may be located by probing wood with a screwdriver, ice
pick or knife. Inspection should be concerned with the exterior and
interior surfaces of the foundation, particularly construction where
wood is on or near the soil.<br />
<br />
Start inspection in the basement and use a bright flashlight. Look for mud tubes and the activity of swarmers.<br />
<br />
You should inspect in the following areas as well:<br />
<ul>
<li>Any wood construction in basement and crawl space (if present).<br />
</li>
<li> All sills, sub floors, joists, support posts, supporting piers, basement window frames, wood under porches.<br />
</li>
<li> Pay close attention to places where concrete: steps, porches, or slabs join the wooden structure.<br />
</li>
<li> All the hollow blocks, cracks in cement or brick construction and expansion joints.<br />
</li>
<li> Any scrap wood on the exterior, old tree stumps, fence posts and exterior frames of basement windows.</li>
</ul>
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<div class="col-xs-12">
<h3>
Note:</h3>
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li>If any of your findings are inconclusive, but you still worry that
you may have termites, call a professional. Their training helps them
know what to look for, and they can put your mind at ease.</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div class="row">
<div class="col-xs-12">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li>The first time you see a termite-like insect in your home, look at it thoroughly. Termites are often confused with ants. </li>
</ul>
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li>Before you jump into any treatment plan, it is a good idea
to get a second opinion and thoroughly research companies you are
considering hiring. Termites work slowly, and your house won't be eaten
to shreds if you take a couple days to figure out the best course of
action.</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-68311700127219036252016-04-13T16:43:00.000-07:002016-04-13T16:45:24.941-07:00Explore Pasadena<span class="current"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="metro gold line, gold line, train, pasadena, light rail, public transportation, los angeles, san gabriel valley, lax, extension, foothill gold line, best public transportation cities, dtla to pasadena, pasadena to dtla, east la, arts district, northeast los angeles, nela, northeast la, highland park, museums, memorial park, rose bowl stadium, rose bowl, car free la, car free los angeles" class="post-image page-image wp-post-image" src="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-Metro-Gold-Line-Pasadena_0002_25508040685_cdf59e0c6f_o.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></div>
<article class="single-post post-5056 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-trip-ideas tag-car-free-la tag-ecotourism tag-extension tag-metro-gold-line tag-pasadena tag-public-transportation" id="post-5056"><div class="post-content single-content">
<h3>
Metro Gold Line Extends Beyond Pasadena</h3>
LA Metro recently added six new stations to the Gold Line. The addition spans
from Pasadena to Azusa, adding 11 new miles to the line, and is great
for venturing into (or from) the San Gabriel Valley. Before, you had no
choice but to sit in traffic; now whiz past cars on the
210 freeway while being treated to breathtaking views of the San
Gabriel Mountains.<br />
<h3>
Why Should I Visit Pasadena?</h3>
Pasadena is known for its prolific arts and culture scene,
eye-catching architecture, and eclectic dining options. Most of the
attractions are located within walking distance of the six Gold Line
stations in the city.<br />
<h3>
DTLA to Pasadena by Train</h3>
It takes between 15 and 25 minutes to travel from Downtown Los
Angeles to Pasadena, depending on where you detrain. In this article we
will list the stations in order from south to northeast.<br />
<br />
<div class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_5113" style="text-align: center; width: 770px;">
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<a href="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0004_Metro-Gold-Line-Pasadena-to-Downtown-Los-Angeles-02.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pasadena, gold line, metro, los angeles, foothill, extension, geologica 42, public art, metro art" class="size-full wp-image-5113" src="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0004_Metro-Gold-Line-Pasadena-to-Downtown-Los-Angeles-02.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<h3>
First stop, Fillmore Station</h3>
As soon as you exit the train you’ll come upon Geologica 42, a
40-foot public art sculpture made of steel and bronze (pictured above).<br />
<br />
Walk one block west towards Raymond Avenue, once you get to Raymond, walk north (towards the right) to Jones Coffee Roasters.
Jones is a local favorite that uses beans sustainably sourced from the
owner’s Guatemalan coffee farm, the coffee shop often features live
music and open mic nights.<br />
Pie Life Pizza is next door to Jones Coffee Roasters. It’s a
nondescript, take-away window serving some of the best pizza in town.
Daily pizza-by-the-slice selections like <i>pesto and heirloom tomatoes</i> change based on what’s in season.<br />
<br />
Walk south on Raymond Avenue to ArtCenter College of Design's
South Campus. ArtCenter is a prestigious art school that is open to the
public. Housed in re-purposed, modern buildings, the school serves as a
cultural resource for the community and supports progressive art. Once
here set your gaze towards the metallic architectural skyline and spot a
hidden Green Roof covered by native plants. Make your way up the stairs and keep your eyes open for outdoor installations by Kenny Scharf. There is a massive exterior wall covered in graffiti art;
and a student art gallery (Wind Tunnel Gallery) that was formerly a
supersonic jet-testing facility — they also present lectures there.<br />
<br />
Walk back towards Fillmore Station, heading north on Raymond Avenue,
make a right at Fillmore Street, then left at Arroyo parkway. Arrive at
Lucky Boy, located at 640 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena, CA 91105. They
make an amazing breakfast burrito stuffed with cheese, potatoes, and a
generous portion of bacon.<br />
<br />
Alternatives include Pitfire Pizza; or if you’re feeling fancy there are two Pasadena institutions nearby, Parkway Grill featuring classic French dishes, and Arroyo Chop House which is a modern steakhouse.<br />
<br />
Get back on the train and continue traveling north to the next stop, Del Mar Station.<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-del-mar-station-metro-gold-line-vintage-photgraph-20161.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="del mar station, vintage photograph, amtrak, santa fe, train depot, pasadena, atsf, Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway" class="size-full wp-image-5176" src="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-del-mar-station-metro-gold-line-vintage-photgraph-20161.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<h3>
Del Mar Station</h3>
Del Mar Station is a Spanish Revival style train depot built circa
1911; it served as a Santa Fe train depot that welcomed the arrival of
celebrity legends like Will Rogers and Clark Gable as they made their
way into Hollywood by way of Pasadena to avoid the hustle and bustle of
Union Station. Today, the station has been re-purposed to house
restaurants and bars including The Luggage Room Pizzeria (which occupies the station’s original luggage room), La Grande Orange Cafe, Sushi Kimagure, Otis Bar and Stone Company Store.<br />
<br />
From Del Mar Station walk west to Raymond Avenue and you will
immediately come upon Central Park, where twice a year (spring and
fall) The Jackalope Art and Craft Fair sets up shop.<br />
<br />
Continue walking north on Raymond Avenue and you’ll find yourself in
the southern end of Old Pasadena. Arrive at the intersection of Green
Street and Raymond Avenue, and take a coffee break at Cope Vida, it’s one of many great artisan coffee shops in town.<i><b> </b></i>Copa Vida offers brunch and lunch.<br />
<br />
Across the street, cater-corner from Copa Vida, you’ll notice Castle Green,
a meticulously restored historical monument. One of the oldest
landmarks in L.A. County, Castle Green was an annex to Hotel Green, a
lavish resort for Tinsletown’s elite that was demolished in the 1930s.
Castle Green and the adjacent Wooster Block Building are the only
standing remnants of the hotel. Today Castle Green is used frequently in films
like <i>The Sting.</i> While Castle Green is currently a private
residence and a special event venue, the stunning Moorish, Spanish and
Victorian architecture can be toured once per year during the holidays.<br />
<br />
Continue heading east on Green Street and you will stumble upon the
Pasadena Convention Center; it is a campus style center that houses the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena Ice Skating Center, and Pasadena Visitors Center.<br />
<br />
Directly across the street from the convention center, at Paseo Colorado,
a dinner theater venue called The Rose presents intimate musical
performances. Talent here ranges from nostalgic acts like The Motels,
Wilson Phillips, and Smokey Robinson, to tribute bands and rock bands.
The Rose is one of few dinner theater venues in Los Angeles. That style
of entertainment is uncommon in this area.<br />
For alternatives at Del Mar Station, try Flour + Tea or the Congregation Ale House. Flour + Tea was featured on the <i>Food Network’s </i>“Best
Thing I Ever Ate,” and specializes in cakes, boba and poke.
Congregation Ale House is directly across from Del Mar station on
Raymond Avenue. Go there for craft beer and local brews. They also offer
signature cocktails like <i>Grapefruit Gimlet </i>and <i>Planters Punch</i>.<br />
<br />
Head back to Del Mar Station and take the train to the next top, Memorial Park Station.<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0003_Memorial-Park-Station-3.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="memorial park station, public art, The First Artists in Southern California, A Short Story, pasadena, los angeles" class="size-full wp-image-5111" src="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0003_Memorial-Park-Station-3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<h3>
Memorial Park Station</h3>
This is the most popular station; many of the city’s attractions are
concentrated here. As you emerge onto street level, look towards your
left (east) and you’ll see Pasadena City Hall in the distance. If you’ve seen the TV show, <i>Parks and Recreation, </i>you
may recognize the building as “Pawnee City Hall.” The exteriors were
filmed for the show. City Hall encompasses Mediterranean Revival and
Spanish Colonial Revival architectural styles, the structure features a
six-story dome and cupola.<br />
<br />
Visiting the legendary Rose Bowl Stadium is most convenient from Memorial Park Station. During most events a shuttle pick-up area is established two blocks away, at Parsons Corporation.<br />
<br />
Some of the best shopping in town is just outside of this station.
One block west (to the right), several independent boutiques line this
stretch of Holly Street. Venture into Lula Mae, Homage, Therapy, Elisa
B., and Maude Woods for souvenirs and keepsakes you will only find in
Pasadena. One Colorado is another block in the same direction; it is an
outdoor shopping district where you’ll find a well-curated collection of
retailers, restaurants, a luxury movie theater experience; and a
gorgeous courtyard where seasonal concerts and family events take place.<br />
<br />
If you’re a fan of the Coastal California style, sophisticated
boutiques like Mohawk General Store, Joie and Vince are within walking
distance.<br />
<br />
Each Sunday, the Old Pasadena Farmers Market pops up on Holly Street.
During this event vehicle traffic is rerouted and visitors can walk
along the street tasting organic produce grown in California, and can
shop for artisanal products.<br />
<br />
The station is named after Memorial Park which sits above the
station. The park features a band shell in the center of the park,
called Levitt Pavilion. Throughout the summer, visitors are treated to a series of 50 free concerts and everyone is encouraged to picnic.<br />
<br />
Wine lovers take note. Across the street from Levitt Pavilion you
will find Everson Royce, a wine and spirits shop that puts on weekly
wine tastings. Everson Royce invites winemakers to personally present
their wines at these tastings, and their knowledgeable staff is on hand
to help you find great, small batch wines from all over the world.<br />
<br />
Architecture enthusiasts can get an insider’s perspective on the history of Old Pasadena by taking the Old Pasadena Walking Tour.
These tours are produced by Pasadena Heritage, a non-profit conservancy
group dedicated to preserving and protecting Pasadena’s rich and
storied past. On the tour, visit reclaimed alleyways, spot ghost signs,
and learn about one of the nation’s most successful revitalizations. An
expert docent leads the way; reservation and tickets are required.<br />
<br />
There are so many restaurants in this neighborhood that it can be
overwhelming for some people. There is literally something for every
palate in Old Pasadena. If you are in the mood for a memorable dinner
and great wine, make a reservation at Union Restaurant,
it consistently ranks well on “Best Restaurants in LA” roundups. While
the menu changes frequently, based on what’s in season, their culinary
approach is consistent — a Californian interpretation on Northern
Italian dishes. A couple dishes that are often on the menu are steelhead
trout with orzo, sunchokes and maitake mushrooms; and Niman Ranch beef
short ribs with salt pork, barley risotto and gremola.<br />
<br />
Aficionados of the arts are also well represented here, Armory Center for the Arts, Norton Science Museum, The Gamble House, Pasadena Museum of History, Pasadena Museum of California Art, the Pasadena Central Library, and the USC Pacific Asia Museum are all easily accessible from this stop.<br />
<br />
Head back to Memorial Park Station and get on the train continuing
your trip in the northeast direction. There are two platforms at this
station, use the platform on the right. Signs mounted on the trains will
read <i>Pasadena / Sierra Madre Villa</i> or <i>Asuza / Citrus</i>.<br />
<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0002_Lake-Avenue-Station.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="lake station, metro, gold line, pasadena, los angeles, clock tower, freeway train station, 210 freeway, pasadena freeway, foothill, extension" class="size-full wp-image-5110" src="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0002_Lake-Avenue-Station.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<h3>
Lake Station</h3>
At this point in the route, the train merges in between the 210
freeway and follows it to the end of the line. Lake Avenue Station is a
short, five-block walk to the South Lake Avenue District and the
Playhouse District.<br />
<br />
South Lake Avenue is a shopper’s paradise. Those who enjoy retail
therapy and pampering will spend a lot of time here. This charming,
European-style boulevard is lined with beautiful trees and features
several promenades for visitors to walk and shop. The shopping district
is anchored by Macy’s and discount shopping chains Ross and TJ Maxx.
Locals favor gems like Olive and June, a lovely neighborhood nail salon;
Drybar<b>, </b>a blow-dry-only salon; SoulCycle, a spin studio with a cult following; and Sugarfish, offering high quality sushi.<br />
<br />
Burlington Arcade, is modeled after London’s Burlington Arcade. Its
whimsical indoor-outdoor setting and the creative retailers will leave
you feeling inspired. Wander into Float,
a unique sweets shop complete with a craft soda-based make-your-own
float menu; Kimono No Kobe, a traditional Japanese Beauty Store; and Contessa Chocolate Collection, a gourmet chocolate and espresso bar.<br />
South Lake Avenue offers dining options on the healthier side, like Real Food Daily, Lemonade, Abricott, Bengees Ice Cream Crafters (dairy-free). Fine dining options abound here too, like Celestino, SECO, Del Frisco's Grill, and Smitty's Grill.<br />
<br />
Caltech,
one of the world’s greatest research universities is located just
blocks away, adding a collegiate flair to the neighborhood. Take a look
at their public events calendar for performances like the Caltech
Players’ Star Trek musical parody.<br />
<br />
The Playhouse District is a commercial and residential neighborhood that surrounds its namesake, the Pasadena Playhouse — it is the city’s performing arts hub. The Pasadena Playhouse is the official state theater of California,
and for good reason. The theater’s programming is quite incredible. They
feature culturally diverse and innovative productions like <i>Casa Valentina</i>, <i>A Night with Janice Joplin</i>, <i>Fly</i>, and <i>Real Women Have Curves</i>. Complimentary behind-the-scene tours of the theater are available by appointment.<br />
<br />
The Playhouse District is also home to Boston Court Performing Arts Center, Ice House Comedy Club, and Laemmle’s Playhouse 7.<br />
<br />
Southern California’s oldest and largest independent bookstore,
Vroman’s Bookstore is a 7,000 square-foot treasure trove of handpicked
literature and unique gifts. Special programming includes children’s
story time, free summer jazz concerts, and public book signings by
well-known authors.<br />
The vibrant neighborhood is sprinkled with coffee bars like Urth Caffe, Le Muse Coffee & Wine, Next Chapter, and Zona Rosa; and a jazz bar called Red, White and Bluezz.<br />
<br />
Return to Lake Station and travel to Allen Station.<br />
<br />
<div class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_5109" style="text-align: center; width: 770px;">
<a href="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0001_Allen-Station-Public-Art-2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="rider's dream, riders dream, public art, metro, pasadena, los angeles, freeway, 210, foothill, metro gold line, gold line, light rail, train, old right of way" class="size-full wp-image-5109" src="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0001_Allen-Station-Public-Art-2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
Allen Station</h3>
This portion of the guide is great for the more curious traveler who
likes to “do as the Romans do.” While this area is mostly residential,
there are some real gems that most visitors will never come across.<br />
<br />
Before we get started at Allen Station, if you need another coffee,
Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters is popular with the locals, try their
Vienna Latte with Hemp Milk.<br />
<br />
Next, make your way to East Washington Village, an eclectic
neighborhood in the northeastern end of Pasadena, home to a longstanding
Armenian community. Board the Pasadena Transit Bus 687/686 (northbound) and travel for seven minutes to Washington Boulevard where you will get off the bus.<br />
Pulitzer Prize winner and L.A. Times food critic, Jonathan Gold is partial to Garni Meat Market<b>,</b>
a butcher shop where you can find for spicy chicken wings, pork kabobs
and marinated quail — all grilled to order and served with house made
dips; Armenian sandwich shop Torino serves crusty French bread stuffed
with Lebanese sausage; and Aladdin Nuts is a quaint shop that offers a
smorgasbord of flavored pistachios, almonds and hazelnuts.<br />
<br />
Continue west on Washington Boulevard to Burrito Express<b>,</b>
a Mexican restaurant that has been catering to locals since 1978;
Connal’s is a family-owned burger joint; or my personal favorite, a
sandwich deli called Lavender & Honey, which also happens to be one
of the most Instagramed cafes in town.<br />
<br />
When you’re ready for dessert, walk east for about a mile to Carmela<b>. </b>They serve artisan ice cream flavors like salted caramel, brown sugar vanilla bean and brown butter sage.<br />
<br />
<div class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_5108" style="width: 770px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0000_Sierra-Madre-Villa-Station-2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="sierra madre villa, station, metro, pasadena, gold line, foothill, elevated train station, scenic, " class="size-full wp-image-5108" src="http://www.visitpasadena.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/760x570-metro-gold-line-pasadena_0000_Sierra-Madre-Villa-Station-2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<h3>
Sierra Madre Villa Station</h3>
This is the final stop on the Pasadena tour. Nature lovers will enjoy the urban hiking trails of Eaton Canyon, a 190-acre nature preserve featuring equestrian trails, seasonal streams and a cascading waterfall. <i><b></b></i>Stop by the Eaton Canyon Nature Center and
grab maps of the hiking trails. On Saturdays at 9 AM, folks meet at the
nature center for a guided family hike that’s suitable for all ages and
fitness levels.<br />
<br />
If hiking is not your thing, around the corner from Sierra Madre Villa Station you will find A Noise Within,
a repertory theater housed in a beautiful mid-century modern venue
where a rotating company performs classic theatrical productions like <i>Romeo and Juliet</i> and <i>All My Sons</i>.<b> </b>Across the street from A
Noise Within, you will find a chain Mexican restaurant called El Torito
which is credited for popularizing the margarita and enchiladas in the
United States.
<br />
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</article>Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-51291257419818697702016-04-06T16:50:00.000-07:002016-04-06T16:50:28.059-07:0010 Inexpensive Fixes To Increase The Value Of Your HomeLooking for ways to spruce up your home without breaking the bank? Whether you're getting ready to sell your home or want to update it inexpensively for your own enjoyment, we've got 10 good
strategies for you to consider.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="fB fcDarkBlue"><img class="mainImage" data-bm="10" height="246" src="http://www.unitedhomeconstruction.com/images/kitchen1.jpg" width="320" /> </span></div>
<br />
<span class="fB fcDarkBlue">1. <b>Make your kitchen really cook</b></span><b> </b><br />
<br />
The kitchen is still considered the heart of the home. Potential home
buyers make a beeline for this room when they first view a home for
sale, so make sure your kitchen looks clean and reasonably updated.<br />
<br />
For
a few hundred dollars, you can replace the kitchen faucet set, add new
cabinet door handles and update old lighting fixtures with brighter,
more energy-efficient ones.<br />
<br />
If you've got a slightly larger
budget, you can give the cabinets themselves a makeover. Many companies can
remove cabinet doors and drawers, refinish the cabinet boxes, then add
brand-new doors and drawers. With a fresh coat of paint over the whole
set, your cabinets will look like new.<br />
If you're handy, you can
even order your own replacement cabinet doors and door fronts from retailers
like Lowe's Home Improvement or The Home Depot and install them
yourself.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">2. Give appliances a facelift</span></b> <br />
<br />
One of the simplest upgrades that can be performed is the installation
of new hardware such as towel racks, cabinet handles, and other wall-mounted hardware. If your kitchen appliances don't match, order new doors or face panels
for them. Fun fact, many dishwasher panels are white on one side and black on
the other. All you have to do is unscrew two screws, slide out the panel and flip it around. A more
cohesive-looking kitchen makes a big difference in the buyer's mind --
and in the home's resale price.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="73" height="200" src="http://adamsconstruction.co/wp-content/gallery/bathrooms/bathrooms4.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">3. Buff up the bath</span></b> <br />
<br />
Next to the kitchen, bathrooms are often the most important rooms to
update. They, too, can be improved without a lot of cash. Even simple
things like a new toilet seat and a pedestal sink are pretty easy for
homeowners to install, and they make a big difference in the look of the
bath.<br />
<br />
Replacing an old,
discolored bathroom floor with easy-to-apply vinyl tiles or a small
piece of sheet vinyl is another great idea. You may not even need to take up the old floor.
You can install the new floor right over the old one.<br />
<br />
If
your tub and shower are looking dingy, consider re-grouting the tile
and replacing any chipped tiles. A more complete cover-up is a
prefabricated tub and shower surround. These one-piece units may require
professional installation but can still be cheaper than paying to
re-tile walls and refinish a worn tub.<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">4. Step up your storage</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
Old
houses, particularly, are notorious for their lack of closet space. If
you have cramped storage areas, add do-it-yourself wire and laminate closet systems to bedrooms,
pantries and entry closets.Firms like ClosetMaid allow you to
measure and redesign your closets online. You can also get design
details and parts for these systems at many large home-improvement
stores. Most closets can be updated in a weekend or less.<br />
<br />
In the
end, your closets will be more functional while you're living in the
house and will make your home look more customized to potential buyers
when you're ready to sell.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">5. Add a room in a week or less</span> </b><br />
<br />
If you have a three-bedroom house with a den, the only reason the den
can't be considered a bedroom may be because it doesn't have a closet. If you add a closet to that room, you've now got a
four-bedroom house. That adds a lot of value.<br />
<br />
It's usually possible to add a custom closet system and drywall it in for less than $1,500.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">6. Mind the mechanics</span></b><br />
<br />
Spending a few bucks on nitty-gritty stuff. It's often very worthwhile
to hire an electrician and plumber for a couple of hours to look over
your electrical services, wrap or fix loose wires, fix any faulty
outlets, and check for and fix any water leaks. Those
details tell a buyer that someone has really taken care of the home and
can really influence its price.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="77" height="320" src="http://www.bondcleanersgoldcoast.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/carpet.jpg" width="232" /> </div>
<br />
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">7. Look underfoot</span> </b><br />
<br />
Carpeting is another detail that can quickly update a home and make it
look cleaner. A professional carpet cleaning is an inexpensive
investment, especially if your rugs are in good shape and are neutral
colors.<br />
<br />
If your carpet is showing serious wear, cover it with
inexpensive, strategically placed area rugs. Unless it is truly hideous,
replacing wall-to-wall carpeting
right before you sell your house is not usually recommended. The new homeowners may want to choose
their own carpeting after they move in.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="100" height="255" src="http://www.myled.com/ledblog/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/feature-light-track-lighting-kitchen-light-fixtures-light-home-lighting-room-lights-ceiling-lights-led-lighting-endearing-light-fixtures-over-dining-room-table-dining-room-light-fixtures-on-saled.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">8. Let there be light</span> </b><br />
<br />
If you have boring recessed lights in your dining and living rooms,
consider replacing one of the room's lights with an eye-catching
chandelier. Home stores offer a wide range of inexpensive, but
nice-looking, ceiling fixtures these days. If you have a ceiling fan and
light, you can also buy replacement fan blades (leaving the fan body in
place) to update the fixture's look.<br />
<br />
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">9. Reframe your entry</span> </b><br />
<br />
Do you have a flimsy little knob on your main entry door? If so, spring
for a substantial-looking handle-and-lock set. A nice, big piece of
hardware on the front door signals to newcomers that this is a solid
home.<br />
<br />
Also, if you're stuck with a basic steel front
door, paint or faux-finish it for more eye
appeal. It's becoming a trend in some regions to add wood-grain doors to a
home's entry or garage. The good news, though, is that you can easily
paint existing metal doors with stain and paint.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="82" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1LvAhD4KFg08LQASE42YQ9IXCkQY7kuNFOcgJ8l3hFTjMKlqxsAeWXwD9P5pLi6tZ9HgB2ljsHl8FcemlZLXYAAXXXObB3rP9ackHLhWwu7PuR0QF1ini7CBWhMd3WXM1Y14PZv1xMc/s320/Curb%20Appeal.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
<b><span class="fB fcDarkBlue">10. Consider curb appeal</span> </b><br />
<br />
Although it sounds obvious, a nicely mowed lawn, a few well-placed
shrubs and a swept walkway makes a great first impression. What buyers
see when they first drive by your home is tremendously important.<br />
<br />
If you don't have a green thumb, consider hiring a
landscaper to install some new sod, plant a few evergreen shrubs and
give your front yard a good cleanup. These kinds of changes can
instantly change people's perception of your home and, therefore,
increase its value. And hey, your neighbors will love you
for it, too.<br />
<br />
While the actual cost and payback for
each project can vary, depending on both your home's condition and
the overall real estate market values in your region, these simple upgrades can easily add thousands of dollars to your home's value. For more information on what you can and should upgrade around your home, contact your local handyman or your favorites realtors!<br />
<a href="http://ec.tynt.com/b/rf?id=aDV7hM4FKr36Epadbi-bpO&u=Bankrate" target="_blank"></a></div>
Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-52165491081169867402016-03-31T13:06:00.000-07:002016-03-31T13:06:44.786-07:005 Location Characteristics To Look For When Buying A HomeAsk just about any real estate agent to list the three most important things a property should have, and you’ll likely hear: “location, location, location.” But why does location matter so much? For starters, you can’t move a home — at least not easily or inexpensively. When you buy a home in a good location, it’s usually a solid long-term investment.<br />
<br />
Real estate agents often advise their clients to buy the worst house — a property that could use some TLC — on the best block. Why? Because fixing up a home in a great neighborhood will give you the best return on your investment. Quite simply, it will be easier to sell later on. Conversely, you can buy a beautiful home that doesn’t need any work. But if the block is sketchy or just plain bad, you could have a hard time selling the property at a decent price.<br />
<br />
So if “location, location, location” is so important, what makes a location good? Here are five characteristics to look for when buying a home. If you can get all five, chances are the home’s a great investment.<br />
<br />
<b>1. A safe neighborhood</b><br />
<br />
People want to live where there’s little or no crime. Naturally, they want to feel safe in their homes and will pay extra for it. A safe neighborhood means people will feel free to walk around, be outdoors and interact with their neighbors. Communities still exist today where people don’t lock their doors, and they know their neighbors are there for them in a pinch.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Good schools</b><br />
<br />
Being in a good school district is important, even if you don’t have school-age kids and never plan to have any. Fact is, young families always will be buying their first or second homes. They will do their home search based on location in general and good school districts in particular. The better the school district, the higher the values of the surrounding homes can be.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="11" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/13/Glen_Mills_school_Hoenderloo_groep_Wezep.jpg" height="171" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<b>3. Convenient access to popular places, shops and restaurants</b><br />
<br />
Everyone wants to be near the best commercial districts. The closer to the best parts of a city, the better the location — and the more someone is willing to pay for a home. In beach communities, the closer to the beach, the more valuable the property.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="67" height="213" src="https://tinatalkstoday.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/pasadena-073.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<b> 4. Water access and views</b><br />
<br />
No matter which town or city, someone will always pay for a great view or to be on or near the water. Put a home right on a waterway or on a hill with panoramic views and you’ve got a great location.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="10" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Rrk719Pk0L5h_u-Sb1vj0gfuBSbRFKyOYD9ayv8j_A0WTwE_07li0CoL5rHTa223bCWlHTqc4lbDZ-ogwXJBXAA7s2VRj_zdC6Cm61G1NqQEfVKL84OjpMGJqkv15H-ofg-966Mmr65p/s320/pasadena+helicopter+view+grahamowen+com.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
<b>5. Access to public transit and/or freeways</b><br />
<br />
In major cities, the farther you live from the bus, subway or other types of mass transit, the less valuable the home. A good location means being very close, and having easy access, to public transportation. Being near a train or bus can get you anywhere in a short amount of time. In some towns, where a commute by car is inevitable, easy access to the freeway makes for a good location. Adding 20 minutes to a commute just to get to the freeway never helps a location.<br />
<br />
How can you choose the right community? Become a neighborhood detective. Figure out what you're looking for, do research and find a neighborhood that fits your description.Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-67123527985845718732016-03-23T16:51:00.001-07:002016-03-23T16:51:26.687-07:008 Misconceptions about Home Staging<div class="entry-title">
Home staging is the process of preparing a home for sale. This
takes on several different elements to ensure that the home is warm and
inviting, has optimal flow and the features of the property are
highlighted, allowing buyers to develop an emotional attachment. As a result, stagers address many elements, such as paint colour, room
function, furniture layout, de-cluttering, organizing, accessorizing and
of course, curb appeal. They also address the condition of the property,
such as broken doors and door handles, unfinished trim, damaged counter
tops, mismatched lights, etc. In other words….there is a lot that is
involved in staging. Home staging is the best tool available to market your home and allow
it to be positively memorable to buyers and therefore, sell faster and
for more money. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="76" height="243" src="http://www.homedressing.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Home-Staging-001.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<h2>
<b>Here are 8 Misconceptions about Home Staging:</b></h2>
<h3>
<b>#1: Home Staging Is Expensive.</b></h3>
As mentioned already, there are many different areas addressed with
staging. Therefore, the price varies quite a bit. It can start with
the consultation fee where you will receive a
detailed room by room assessment detailing
exactly what needs or should be taken care of before listing your home.
The price can go up if you choose to have a staging company take care of painting,
minor renovations, cleaning, junk removal, etc. However, certain companies emphasize low cost
recommendations and cost-effective solutions that will gain the best
return on your investment. And don’t forget that this is a small
investment in your home to ensure that you are protecting the equity in
your home and increasing the potential for profit.<br />
<h3>
<b>#2: Other houses sell without home staging.</b></h3>
This is absolutely true. Houses can and do sell without
staging…eventually. However, those sellers may have missed out on the
opportunity to sell faster and for more money. It is very important to
remember that when a buyer makes an offer, they will deduct money based
on items that they feel they will need to address in order to improve
the condition of the home. These deductions will always cost you more
than if you take care of them prior to putting your home up for sale.<br />
<h3>
<b>#3: Buyers can make changes that they want themselves.</b></h3>
Of course, they can and this is one of the biggest mistakes that a
seller can make. Think of it this way. Would you prefer to remove the
wallpaper in the living room and paint it a neutral color for about
$100 and one weekend of your time or would you prefer to take about
$1000 off the sale price of your home? Which option makes more
financial sense? As much as you may not want to do that work, buyers
don’t want to do that work either. Especially if there is another home
available that is “move in ready”. Find a company that makes changes that will create the most appeal
to the largest number of potential buyers as well as justify the asking
price.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="76" height="239" src="http://www.cypress-texas-real-estate.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/home-staging.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<h3>
<b>#4: Staging is just for vacant houses.</b></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yep, vacant houses need to be staged. But so does yours! Let’s just
say for example that you put your house up for sale without staging.
Then a vacant house in the neighborhood goes up sale and has been
staged. Which house do you think will look better in the online photos,
draw a larger group of prospective buyers to view the property and
create more interest for offers?<br />
The fact is your house is competing with all other homes in your area
and price range vacant or not. You want your home to stand out above
all of the rest. Your goal is to sell fast and get the most money that
you can. Staging is a fantastic marketing tool that can help you
achieve these goals. </div>
<h3>
<b>#5: I don’t need staging because I’ve already tidied up and organized my stuff.</b></h3>
Organizing and cleaning are definitely a part of staging, however,
only a small part. A staging company is able to help walk you through all areas of
staging and ensure that nothing is overlooked or forgotten. They position themselves as the neutral third party that looks at your home from the
“buyers eyes”. As we live in a house for many years, we begin to not
see things like a door handle that does work properly, the door that
sticks, the piece of furniture that blocks the walkway in a room, etc. A staging company will have a strategic approach when evaluating exactly what needs to be
addressed, what colors will work in certain rooms, what features need
to highlighted (or minimized) and how all of this can be achieved. <br />
<h3>
<b>#6: Staging is just a trend.</b></h3>
Well, staging is still a fairly new concept in the grand scheme of
things. The notion of staging began about 25 years ago. It started
with just a few savvy individuals seeing potential in sprucing up homes
to make them look their best prior to putting them up for sale. These
people were simply interested in protecting their investment and the
value of their home. Today, home staging has gained the attention of a
countless number of real estate agents, home sellers and media (all of
those TV shows focused on the need for staging). Real estate has seen
many changes over the years such as the need for home inspections,
marketing via the internet (namely MLS), marketing via social media and
staging, to just name a few. Staging is not a trend. It is quickly
becoming an essential part of the home selling process, just as
marketing on MLS has. Buyers watch HGTV, they read the design magazines
and that’s what they want. A home that looks like it belongs on the
cover of a magazine…..they want the dream!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="10" height="221" src="http://www.yourcharlottehome.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Staging.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<h3>
<b>#7: No one will care if my closets and cupboards are messy.</b></h3>
Actually, messy closets, cupboards and storage spaces give the
impression that there just isn’t enough storage space. Buyers will open
cupboards and closet doors. They want to see that everything is in
working order and they want to get a good sense of whether or not all
their stuff will fit. By making sure that everything is neat and
organized, you are showing buyers that not only is there plenty of storage space, but they too can
live the dream of an organized life in this house. And the best part is that this part
of staging is free! Why wouldn’t you do this??<br />
<h3>
<b>#8: Anyone can stage a home, after all, it’s just decorating.</b></h3>
This is probably the biggest misconception. As mentioned throughout
this article, staging engages many different facets. Stagers must make
suggestions that are based on real estate, not design. In others words,
suggestions are fueled by who the target market is, the location of the
home, the price point and market conditions. In preparing your home
for sale, a staging company takes all of these items into consideration along with
color, lighting, flow, use of rooms, etc. They strategically create a
plan to allow your home to stand out above the competition. While there
is definitely a creative design element to staging, there is also a
logical and strategic plan that must be implemented. The way you live
in a house and the way you sell a house are very different. Home staging does not hide flaws or mislead buyers about the overall
condition of the home. It highlights the positives. A stager's goals are the
same as your goals – sell fast and sell for the best price possible.
<br />
<br />
If you are looking to stage your home, please contact us for recommendations. We have worked with some of the best stagers in the area and we are always happy to help!Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-71660390169861663182016-03-16T14:59:00.002-07:002016-03-16T14:59:43.007-07:00What Is The Big Deal About Curb Appeal?You know how they say first impressions last? Or how you will never get a
second chance to make a first impression? This is true of your house as
you’re trying to sell it too. If you are expecting a buyer to make an
offer on your property, it’s important to make sure it looks worth
the asking price. You can even increase your home's value with just a
few aesthetic tweaks. And these can be the difference,
especially in a competitive seller’s market. Check out some information
below on what buyers see as “curb appeal” and how to get it.<br />
<br />
<b>Affordable Changes </b><br />
<br />
You can use a hose or a power washer to get rid of excess dirt on the
sidewalk, driveway, deck, walkway and exterior of your home. You may
want to dress up your front door with a blast of color, a wreath or a
doormat to make it more inviting. You may want to consider adding fresh
molding to the sides and top of the doorway and polishing or replacing
the door’s hardware.<br />
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Adding shutters and trims can be a nice touch without breaking the
bank. Their added bonus is that they control light and ventilation all
while providing extra security. You can also address the mailbox at this
time, ensuring it matches the home’s look. Either update yours with
flowers and plants, or replace the current one with a sturdy and
attractive option.<br />
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To improve the yard, it can be a good idea to start by cutting back
trees and bushes that obstruct the view of your home’s best features.
You also may want to prune your garden and pull weeds. You can focus on
the lawn and any deck or patio area. Container gardens can add welcoming
and colorful infusions and are available for purchase ready-made from
garden centers.<br />
<br />
<b>Changes Worth the Investment </b><br />
<br />
While those low-cost changes can make a real difference, you can also consider making a bigger change if your budget allows.
You can install effective and attractive outdoor lighting or replace
shoddy fixtures. Newer models often have indoor time control.<br />
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<img class="mainImage" data-bm="80" height="320" src="http://www.thebudgetdecorator.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/101297795.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<br />
When it comes to the garden, there are plenty of options: from
renewing planter beds and upgrading old borders to stone or
cast-concrete systems to planting new vegetation or flowers as part of a
landscaping overhaul. You may even consider adding arbors, garden
gates, or decorative fence panel sections and painting or staining them
to colors that align with the home.<br />
<br />
Speaking of paint, redoing your whole exterior may seem like a
serious project but it can make your home look a lot fresher. It’s a
good idea to also consider replacing broken gutters and edging the
driveway if you haven’t in a while.<br />
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While curb appeal isn’t always as easy to measure as other factors
like square footage or number of bedrooms, it still can play an
important role in the home sale process. It’s a good idea to take some
time to focus on increasing your property’s curb appeal at whatever
levels you can afford. Then, watch the dramatic difference these can
make on both your property’s appearance and value.<br />
<br />
As you sell your house, don’t overspend to increase curb appeal. Consult
with your listing agent on what makes the most sense for your
neighborhood and housing market. Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-44481804211580264842016-01-31T20:05:00.002-08:002016-01-31T20:05:30.539-08:00NEW LISTING - Rustic Hipster Craftsman in Highland Park6252 Mount Angelus, Los Angeles 90042<br />
<br />
Perched in the historic
and highly sought after Mount Angelus neighborhood of hip and trendy
Highland Park, this completely renovated 3 bedroom/2 bath Craftsman
retreat has the vibe coveted by today's discerning LA home buyer. The
rustic and cabin-like interior with cathedral cedar ceilings and
hardwood flooring creates a warm and airy open space, perfect for
entertaining. The chef'<span class="text_exposed_show">s kitchen
features state-of-the-art appliances, an island, custom cabinetry,
beautiful granite counter tops and opens to the living and dining areas.
There are two large unfinished areas under the home which are
currently being used for storage, a workshop, laundry area, and workout
space. Additional upgrades include; forced heat and central A/C,
ceiling fans, sky lights, dual pane windows, updated electrical,
tankless water heater, bolted foundation, front porch, fenced grassy
back yard, front & back patio areas, and new siding. Amazing
central location close to award winning restaurants, shopping, DTLA,
transportation, and schools.</span><br />
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Square Footage: 872 (per assessor)<br /> Lot Size: 4,085 (per assessor)<br /> Price offered: $599,000<br />
<br />
Open House Sunday, January 31st, 2-4pm<br /> Broker's Open House: Thursday, February 4th, 10am-2pm <br /> Open House: Sunday, February, 7th, 1-3pm<br />
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Contact us for a private showing!<br /> 626.818.2577 or 626.808.1817<br />
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Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-53658816889364586872016-01-31T19:49:00.000-08:002016-01-31T19:53:03.249-08:001st Quarter "Networking for a Cause" Business MixerExcited to announce our 1st Quarter Networking for a Cause Business Mixer! We have teamed up with Heather Backstrom and Haydel Biel & Associates to raise community awareness and money for the Bad Weather Shelter, a weather activated homeless shelter in Pasadena run by Friends in Deed. The event is at the Courtyard by Marriott on Feb 18th from 5:30pm-9:00pm. Thanks to our sponsors Citizens Business Bank, Waleed Delawari/Delaware Pacific, First Priority/John Thompson, Kevin Moore & Associates, and the Misplaced Priorities!<br />
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<br />Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-37832247482372701252015-10-20T10:04:00.000-07:002015-10-20T10:04:01.103-07:00September Inventory for Pasadena Increases 21%<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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September inventory for Pasadena single family homes has increased 21% over same period last year. With the increase in inventory, buyer's have more choice and as a result, sales have increased 28%. Prices remain stable both in the price per square foot AND in median sales price. Opportunities exist for both buyer's AND seller's at this time. Buyer's will find that they have more properties to evaluate, and seller's will find that buyer's remain optimistic. </div>
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If you are thinking about making a home purchase, the holidays are historically the absolute BEST time, and if you are a seller contemplating selling, NOW is the time to evaluate the value of your home and devise a plan which will help you reach your goals. </div>
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Please give us a call if you would like a no obligation market analysis on your home. </div>
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Mark & Cynthia</div>
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626-818-2577</div>
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<br />Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-48995075023759533222015-07-21T13:26:00.001-07:002015-07-21T13:29:24.571-07:00NEW TRIPLEX LISTING! NEW TRIPLEX LISTING! $849,000<br />
8810-8814 Elm Avenue, Temple City<br />
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Located in Temple City, this triplex is a great opportunity to own investment property in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley. On the border between Temple City and San Gabriel, the location is ideally suited for proximity to shopping and major thoroughfares. Each unit is 2 bedrooms and 1 bath. Two of the units are attached and the third, detached, is in the rear. San Gabriel schools.<br />
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Triplex Square Footage: 2,774 (per assessor)<br />
Lot Square Footage: 9,784 (per assessor)<br />
Year Built: 1945<br />
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www.8810ElmAvenue.com <br />
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Drive by Only. Do Not Disturb Tenants. Offers are subject to inspection.<br />
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<br />Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-32280575112763338762015-06-15T13:38:00.000-07:002015-06-15T13:38:02.337-07:00Pasadena Homes Price Up 10%Home prices are up 10% May 2015 over May 2014. Single family homes are
averaging $544.00 a square foot! If you know of anyone who may be
thinking about selling OR interested in knowing how the increase in
values has positively impacted their home, let us know. We would love
to share the great news!<br />
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Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-90385687977891101712015-05-04T17:09:00.002-07:002015-05-04T17:09:42.588-07:00Pasadena Home Values UP 28%<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-64578784863781114502015-03-05T12:20:00.002-08:002015-03-05T12:29:10.317-08:00Mark & Cynthia's "Networking for a Cause" Mixer a Success!Mark & Cynthia Cohn brought over 75 of Pasadena's BEST professionals together last night to
network AND raise money for Learning Works Charter School. Naomi Farley
with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage was their co-sponsor and a/k/a An American
Bistro provided a beautiful venue and complimentary appetizers. Thanks
to all who attended & donated and made the evening a smashing success!<br />
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The mixer offers a quality opportunity to Pasadena's BEST professionals to network and build community and ultimately allowing the attendees to meet, collaborate, and drive business to one another. Since Mark & Cynthia's practice niche focuses on representing trusted advisors (bankers, attorneys, CPA's, financial planners, and consultants) and their clientele, the relationships they foster with professionals in the Pasadena area, allows them to deepen the network their clients most often need as they navigate through life. <br />
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Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-41122163472695843592015-02-09T13:24:00.002-08:002015-02-09T13:24:53.953-08:00Mark & Cynthia's "Networking for a Cause" 1st Quarter Mixer 3/4/15Excited for our 1st Quarter "Networking for a Cause" Business Mixer on
Wednesday, March 4th. Naomi Farley with Wells Fargo Private Mortgage
Bank will be co-sponsoring with us and the mixer will be located at AKA
An American Bistro from 5:30pm-7:30pm. We'll be networking with
Pasadena's top trusted advisors and raising money for Learning Works
Charter School located in Pasadena.<br />
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Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-44267934154521659042015-01-27T16:40:00.000-08:002015-01-27T16:41:15.584-08:00Home Values Continue to Rise <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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In the 4<sup>th</sup> quarter 2014, the market activity in
Pasadena averaged 180 homes for sale per month with 70 homes sold per
month. These figures represent an increase in the active inventory by
11%, and a 1% increase in homes sold. There were 2.6 months of inventory, and the average price per square foot was $495.00. This means an
increase of 11% in property values in the 4<sup>th</sup> quarter of 2014 vs.
the values in the 4<sup>th</sup> quarter of 2013 – very good news for our
community. If you are contemplating a move, or simply want to know the
value of your property, please give us a call! <br />
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Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-80987823751986382342015-01-13T13:51:00.002-08:002015-01-13T13:51:29.668-08:00Safety First When Selling Your Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="userContent">When selling your home, there are several
steps you can take to safeguard yourself, your family, and your
valuables. </span><br />
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Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636422151422858560.post-40528342977370897172015-01-06T09:51:00.002-08:002015-01-06T09:54:26.050-08:00Cynthia Installed as Board Director (2nd Term) for the Pasadena Foothills Association of Realtors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="userContent">I am am thrilled to be volunteering my time in
2015 as a Board Director (2nd term) for the Pasadena Foothills Association of
Realtors. We have an amazing board of dedicated Realtors and Affiliates
lead by President Todd Hayes! We are going to have a great year!</span> </div>
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<br />Mark and Cynthia Cohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12774607392409723972noreply@blogger.com0