Home Improvement – The Real Estate Beat

A List of New Year Renovation Resolutions – Shared Article

By Kara Masterson

With the start of the new year, it’s never too late to reflect on new resolutions to give your home a much-needed upgrade. Sometimes, the smallest changes can accomplish the biggest transformations. As you start to ponder where to begin with your home renovation, we have created a list of new year renovation resolutions for your living space. Take a look, and hopefully, you can take a few from our list and make your house more awesome.

Declutter, Repurpose and Recycle
By removing excess items, you can create a brighter, more spacious atmosphere that’s perfect for starting the new year. Instead of throwing away items you no longer need, consider repurposing them or donating them to someone who can use them. This not only reduces waste but can also save you money in the long run. Recycling household products is another great way to clear space and improve your environment.

Look Into Roof Maintenance or Replacement
Taking care of your roof is critical in maintaining the safety and protection of your home, especially after the harsh winter weather. By inspecting your roof for any damage, leaks, or cracks at the beginning of the year, you can catch any potential issues early on, saving you both time and money in the long run. Consider replacing old roofing with newer, sturdier and more energy-efficient options such as metal or asphalt shingles. Not only will this add value to your home, but it will also ensure that your household is adequately protected from any external elements. Don’t hesitate to look into roof maintenance or replacement this year to keep your home in tip-top shape or to reach out to residential roofers if you think you need a professional on the project.

Add Plants to Your Home Decor
Looking to spruce up your living space? Why not add some greenery to your home decor? Plants are a great way to add a touch of nature to your home, and studies show that having plants around can even improve your mood and sense of well-being. Not only do they look appealing, but certain plants also have air-purifying qualities, making them a great addition to any room. If you’re new to the world of plants, don’t worry – there are plenty of easy-to-maintain options such as Succulents, Fiddle Leaf Figs, Pothos and Ivy. So why not consider adding some green to your space today and see how it transforms your home?

Install New Cabinets, Countertops and Appliances
Upgrading your kitchen cabinets, countertops and appliances can completely transform the heart of your home. If you’re tired of looking at the same outdated design, consider investing in new, modern fixtures. Not only will it give your kitchen a fresh new look, but it will also improve the functionality of your space. Imagine cooking in a kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and ample counter space. It’s easy to see why making this update can make daily life easier and more enjoyable.

Add a Home Office or Entertainment Space
With remote work becoming a new norm, the need for a comfortable and functional home office space is undeniable. Working from the kitchen table or couch may not be a conducive environment, hence the need for a designated work area. Why not take it further and create an entertainment space? It’s a great way to make your home feel more inviting, and you can utilize the space for casual hangouts with friends or family. Whether you choose a gaming room or mini bar, the possibilities are endless. It’s time to spruce up your living space and make it more practical and enjoyable.

Upgrade Your Shower and Lighting
Transform your bathroom into a soothing retreat with a shower and lighting overhaul. Upgrade your shower system and give your bathroom a fresh look by adding new tiles, fixtures and shower heads. From rain shower heads to handhelds, the options are endless. To enhance your experience, install energy-efficient lighting that not only saves money but also creates an inviting atmosphere. With the right lighting, you won’t dread getting ready in the morning or winding down before bed. Upgrade your shower and lighting to create a relaxing and rejuvenating spa-like heaven right in your home.

Update Your Exterior Siding
Whether you’re looking to boost curb appeal or simply freshen up the look of your place, swapping out old, weathered siding for something shiny and new can make a world of difference. These days, vinyl siding is a top choice for many homeowners—not only is it cost-effective and easy to maintain, but it’s also incredibly durable and can last for decades. So if the exterior of your home could use a bit of an update, companies such as Superior Products are ready to supply you with the materials you need to get started.

Home renovation resolutions can be a refreshing start to the new year. Taking the time to evaluate your living space and reflecting on how to make it more awesome can make a significant impact on your daily life. Whether you opt for decluttering and recycling or adding a home office, upgrading your kitchen, or adding plants to your decor, there are a plethora of options to make your home a happy and relaxing place to be. Start small, stay focused and enjoy the transformation of your home.

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her family.

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Is Artificial Grass Right for You?

Artificial grass has come a long way since AstroTurf first hit the playing fields (and maybe your grandmother’s patio). With the ongoing drought in the West, the new, improved artificial grass is becoming more and more popular for sunny, low-rainfall areas, as well as with pet owners, and people who are just tired of lawn maintenance. Today’s synthetic grass is colored and textured to look like various grass types, so you can likely get a look very similar to what you could grow naturally. It is not without its drawbacks, however. Artificial grass is not cheap. Installed costs can run from $10 to $20 per square foot. Compared to natural grass, it can take up to seven to eight years to recoup the initial cost of artificial turf. It isn’t easy to install either, so it might not be the best DIY project.

Best Uses for Artificial Grass

Artificial turf is a good solution if you have an area where grass simply won’t grow because conditions are shady or wet. Artificial grass is a popular option with dog owners for pet runs, or if you have multiple dogs that are wearing out your natural lawn. Artificial greenery is also a great option for places like a small patio or outside space. It also works great for defined shapes within a yard where real grass edges can be tough to mow and keep weed-free.

Pros:

No need to water your lawn
No weeding or mowing
No need for fertilizers or pesticides
Looks very similar to natural grass: soft, even, and green
Does not get muddy or rutted (and keeps your house cleaner)

Cons:

Expensive
Needs to be cleaned off with water and sanitizing agents (more frequently if you have dogs)
Not easily recycled
Heats up in direct sun
Banned by some homeowners associations and municipalities

The Bottom Line

If you love the look of green grass and plan to be in your house for a while then it’s worth considering an artificial lawn. For pet owners, it can be a great solution, but remember it can’t absorb and break down pet urine, so it will require washing (which does take water). Although it’s not maintenance-free, it certainly requires less maintenance than real grass. Remember to check with your city or HOA about their rules for artificial grass.

I read this article HERE

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Home Repair No-Nos: Repair Tips for Every Homeowner

Are you a first-time homeowner? Have you purchased a new-to-you home? Either way, you have a lot to do. When you’re starting out as a new homeowner, it can be hard to know the right things to do and NOT to do when it comes to home maintenance, cleaning, and general upkeep. Here is some guidance to help you know what not to do.

New Homeowner No-Nos – Inside

Sealants

Needlessly applying sealant to surfaces can permanently discolor stone, concrete, and glass, to name a few. Never use sealant on natural materials like quartz, plastic materials like laminates, or commercial acrylic products such as Formica and Corian. Generally, most materials will not need reapplication of sealants very often. Instead, test surfaces using water to check if it’s time to reseal. For example, if water on a kitchen countertop no longer beads, it may be time to reapply.

Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners contain active ingredients that can damage plumbing. Drain cleaners may seem like easy, short-term fixes for clogs, but they can lead to long-term, costly problems. And the chemicals in drain cleaners are just plain bad for the earth. Instead, invest your money in a good plunger, a drain snake for tougher clogs, and if those plumbing tools don’t work, call a plumber.

Glass Cleaners

Here’s a little-known consequence to spraying commercial glass cleaner on mirrors: The liquid can seep into the backing on many types of mirrors, leading to discoloring around the edges of the mirror over time and irreparably damaging the backing. Instead, simply dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and immediately apply a dry cloth to remove excess water.

Bleach

Bleach is actually damaging to most elements and materials found in use in homes. Do not use bleach to clean sealants on granite and other stone surfaces, vinyl, linoleum, and laminate materials, colored grout, enamel, or acrylic surfaces in a bathtub. Never mix bleach with cleaners that contain ammonia! Doing so produces highly dangerous and toxic vapors. Instead, use a vinegar solution. Nothing is better or healthier for cleaning most surfaces in your home.

New Homeowner No-Nos – In and Out

Caulk

Using the wrong caulk can be damaging. That’s because there is a right caulk for the kitchen, bath, gutters, brick or concrete, mortar, and so on. The wrong caulk won’t adhere, or will breakdown, allowing moisture to seep in, or compromise the surface you’re caulking. Instead, ask your local hardware specialist for advice on buying the right caulk for your project.

Tools

Invest in well-made tools for your new home – a hammer, screwdriver set, ladder, and maybe a mower. Avoid buying inexpensive, knock-off brands even if you’re on a budget – they are not made to last. Instead, for budget-conscious homeowners, visit yard sales and look for used tools from quality brands, or start slow with a basic toolbox and build up your set over time.

New Homeowner No-Nos – Outside

Mulch

For your first landscaping project, do not over-mulch. Too much mulch can suffocate plants and prevent water from reaching roots. Instead, add mulch to no deeper than three inches.

Ivy

It may look charming, but ivy will keep growing. Eventually ivy will spread under a home’s siding or shingles, damage their integrity, and ultimately cost you, either in replacing siding, providing entry points for invading pests, or both! Instead, research how and where to thoughtfully plant ivy. A quick web search can also provide better alternatives for plants to safely grow along the base of your home. Note: Plants need to be placed two feet minimum away from the foundation.

Trees

Planting trees close to a home may look nice when the trees are young, but they grow, too! You need to consider the room that baby tree will need at maturity. Trees planted without thought to full height can grow roots that push up through your driveway, sidewalk, and foundation. Instead, plant each tree according to its height and root spread at full maturity. The Arbor Day Foundation has a handy tree spacing guide to help you ensure adequate clearance from your home, fencing, and so on.

Firewood

Do not store firewood right outside your home against exterior walls, otherwise you will invite termites and other pests into your home. Instead, keep firewood at least twenty feet from your home, or further if your property provides room to do so. Better to take a small hike out to the wood pile than let pests make an easy hike into your new home.

I read this article HERE

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DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Home Repair No-Nos: Repair Tips for Every Homeowner

New Homeowner No-Nos – Inside

Sealants

Drain Cleaners

Glass Cleaners

Bleach

New Homeowner No-Nos – In and Out

Caulk

Tools

New Homeowner No-Nos – Outside

Mulch

For your first landscaping project, do not over-mulch. Too much mulch can suffocate plants and prevent water from reaching roots. Instead, add mulch to no deeper than three inches.

Ivy

Trees

Firewood

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email | Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties, Redwood City Ca.

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Best Uses for Artificial Grass

Pros:

Cons:

The Bottom Line

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

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New Homeowner No-Nos – Inside

New Homeowner No-Nos – Outside

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

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