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Subscribe to our free newsletter of home remodeling ideas and examples. Call Gretchen at (253) 859-7978.
It is spring and time for new beginnings. This may be the perfect time for turning your dreams into reality. In the last issue of "Experience SBI," we described 'The Remodeling Experience' and how we believe this philosophy benefits you, our client. Now we explore the question, "Why Remodel?"
There are a variety of reasons to consider remodeling. Done professionally, remodeling will increase the value of your home, reflect your style, fulfill the needs of a growing family, and take care of important life-style needs as we mature.
Many of our clients focus on the life-style improvement they will get from their remodel. Along with creating a dream environment, return on investment can also be a factor when deciding to do a specific project. Here are some figures from "Remodeling Magazines's" 2002 Cost vs. Value Report. The figures are based on the assessments of real estate agents and appraisers.
| . |
Value Derived
|
| Project |
Seattle Area |
National avg. |
| Basement Refinishing |
107% |
79% |
| Bathroom Addition |
132% |
94% |
| Bathroom Remodel |
116% |
91% |
| Major Kitchen Remodel |
108% |
80% |
| Master Suite |
104% |
77% |
| Two-story Addition |
134% |
94% |
| Keep in mind these are just estimates. There are many variables, including location, costs, and quality of materials. |
What is your kitchen style? There are so many options. Which of the following suits your taste and life-style?
- Fine woods, such as maple and cherry
- Detailed cabinetry with decorative accents
- Deep, rich color schemes
- Crown moldings with layered decorative moldings
- Corian, Silestone, or granite countertops
- Clean and sleek design
- Simple and free of clutter
- Light background colors with bold accessories
- Frameless cabinets with contemporary hardware or no hardware at all
- Sleek surfaces - stainless steel appliances, brushed or satin faucets
- Hardwood or ceramic tile flooring
- "Furniture-like" pieces
- Wood cabinets or glass and wood with rustic finishes
- Valences to match cabinets
- Decorative onlays on cabinets and plate rails inside cabinets
- Rustic touches such as beams, paneling, and exposed brick
- Combination of old and new
- Stainless steel and commercial grade appliances
- Mixture of materials
- "Furniture-like" pieces
Is there more than one chef in the family? Do the kids like to help out in the kitchen? Is the level of the counter or location of appliances bothering your back, or just inconvenient?
Growing families, living in a home they love, often decide on an addition or remodel rather than uprooting the family for a new residence. Consider:
- Add a bathroom
- Add a bedroom
- Finish a basement
- Bump-out to make more space
- Design more work spaces (vegetable sink or island)
- Design an area with a lower counter for little ones to reach
- Add another sink in an existing bathroom
- Convert storage or utility space into a half or three quarter bath
As we age our needs change. Consider the improvements that can prolong the number of years a house can serve its owners.
- Higher counters to avoid stooping
- Install dish drawers
- Put the microwave in a cupboard at chest level
- Raise the counter level
- Install a shower with a seat and a swinging door
- Install grab bars next to the toilet and in the bathtub
- Install a taller toilet
There are certain areas in your home that you should focus more attention on when you are decorating. What area is the most important when decorating?
- A. Bathroom
- B. Kitchen
- C. Entry
- D. Living Room
The answer is C. Entry. The entry is the first area your guests will see and will be their first impression of your personal tastes.
Share "Experience SBI" with a friend! To have our newsletter mailed to a friend, call Gretchen at Sound Builders (253) 859-7978.
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