DIY Weekend Projects - How to Add Value to Your Home

DIY Weekend Projects

How to Add Value to Your Home with Do it Yourself Projects

DIY Weekend Projects are a great way to improve your home and garden in your own time. It's also a great way to add value to your home by taking on the labor, design ideas and searching for deals on materials. The more you can save in time, money and materials, the more you will add to your bottom line. And the best part is that most improvements, if done right, will result in adding value to your home.

There are a host of different things you can do, some of which will improve the general ambiance of your home, others that will enable you to enhance your lifestyle and standard of living, and still others that will be sure to add value to your home, which is particularly important if you are planning to sell sometime in the future.

While you don’t have to have any professional skills to undertake many of the most popular DIY weekend projects, it is an advantage to have basic handyman-type skills and some good tools. With a small investment in proper tools and maybe a few classes at a local building store, you could be well on your way to home improvement guru.

For instance if you can work with wood, there are some amazing do-it-yourself projects that will have friends and family gasping at what you have achieved. With a small investment in some important tools, like a jig saw, a router and an maybe a radial arm saw, you will be able to do some fun projects to add value to your home. Since many newer homes are "standard build" they can all look the same, so adding some unique character to your home will yield a return on investment. Just make sure to do a quality job and keep it simple and not too over the top or personalized.

Here are some Do-it-Yourself Woodwork Projects:

• Add shutters to the outside of your house and/or detail trim around windows.
• Change bathroom or kitchen cabinets fronts to update the look.
• Remove small builder standard baseboards and replace with taller baseboards.
• Add wainscoting or bead board to walls for a custom finished look.
• Build a pergola to define a patio or add shelter to your outdoor living area.
• Construct a trellis screen that can be used to add privacy to a special corner of your backyard or to hide unsightly garbage cans.
• Construct built in shelving in open spaces on walls or build other functional built-ins.

Being able to lay bricks and blocks is another great skill to master. Masonry projects are another place you can save some money and have fun. The tools are simple, but you do need to do some research on the best types of mortar to use for different purposes.

Here are some Do-it-Yourself Masonry Projects

• Build a nice solid BBQ unit that will add character as well as functionality to any patio. Those with more advanced bricklaying skills might even consider building an outdoor kitchen over a few weekends.
• Extend your concrete slab patio with brick pavers or flagstone. Or make a new walkway in a high traffic area that is lacking one.
• Line a driveway or walkway with brick or stone.
• Construct raised planters made from either bricks or larger blocks for a veggie garden or to define areas of the yard.
• Build a pond that can be used as a reservoir or for a fountain, or even stocked with fish.
• Add stone to the face of a fireplace to add character and warmth. Or add stone to an exterior wall.

Painting is probably the easiest and best value adding improvement. A fresh coat of paint in modern colors can really change the appearance of a home. Anyone can paint, so it's a perfect DIY project for beginners. The key to a successful paint job is preparation and patience. Blue painters tape is your friend.

 Here are some Do-it-Yourself Painting Projects

• Paint the front door and shutters of your home to add curb appeal. 
• Paint or stain the deck and fences. This will add value and help maintain this expensive asset to the home.
• Spend a weekend painting your living room and see what a difference it makes. Add some coordinating pillows on the sofa and a few new accessories and you will feel like you are in a new home.
• Stain the concrete on an outdoor patio for a fresh new look. Be sure to pressure wash first.

At the end of the day, whatever do-it-yourself weekend projects you decide to tackle, make sure you have the skills required to do them. Also ensure that you are in fact improving the value of your home. Some improvements, if done carelessly or in bad taste can have the opposite affect.

If you are considering selling your home down the road, feel free to give me a call and I can guide you as to what improvements will yield the greatest return on your investment.

Triangle Real Estate Market Update October 2013

Triangle Real Estate Market Update October 2013

Housing Market Stats for the Raleigh Metro Area

Once again, the Triangle (Raleigh Metro area) has continued to show a strong recovery in the local housing market.

As we near the end of the selling season, when inventory is generally lower, we are not seeing a decrease in buyer activity.

Supply over the summer months was down to 3 months, indicating a very strong market. With only a slight increase in the Fall months, it has held stable. Notice 50% of homes for sale only stay on the market for less than 30 days, that certainly shows that demand is still there. This is exactly why we have seen many multiple offer situations this year. Homes that are priced well, in good condition combined with a motivated seller, don't last long.


Take a look at the video below where TMLS predicts that sellers will be less likely in the near future to make concessions.

I believe we are in the transition phase from a buyers market to a sellers market. The one thing that may affect a true swing to a sellers market is a rise in interest rates, so be aware of what's in store.

If you would like a more detailed analysis for the local housing market and what it means for you as a buyer or a seller, give me a call. I'd love to meet with you and discuss your unique real estate needs.

Selling Your Home in West Cary Neighborhoods 27513

Selling Your Home in West Cary Neighborhoods 27513

Low Inventory and Buyer Demand Means It's A Sellers Market

The inventory of homes in the 27513 zip code varies by price range, but overall is very low. In the $150,000 and below range, you will mostly find town homes and condos and maybe a few older smaller homes.  The $150,000 to $250,000 price range is in high demand because of affordability. Even the upper price ranges have very little inventory, unlike many other markets. 

If you click on the links below, in each category, you will only find a handful of available properties in each price range. As you can see on the above graph, existing inventory and new listings to market are both down. There is also a slowdown in sales this time of year, which is normal.

It's a sellers market in many West Cary Neighborhoods in the 27513 area. These neighborhoods are very desirable and there are not many listings to choose from, making prices very stable and in fact rising in most neighborhoods. If you are considering selling your home, take a look at the competition in your price range. You may be surprised to see that there isn't much competition at all! Especially this time of year, if you can handle a move between now and spring, there are Buyers out there ready to buy and pay top dollar in today's market.

Thinking about moving up to a larger home? Now may be the time while buyer demand is high and interest rates for your new home loan are still very low. When rates rise, it will create a very different market.

Homes for Sale 27513 Under $150,000
Homes for Sale 27513 From $150,000 to 200,000
Homes for Sale 27513 From $200,000 to 250,000
Homes for Sale 27513 From $250,000 to 300,000
Homes for Sale 27513 From $300,000 to 350,000
Homes for Sale 27513 From $350,000 to 400,000
Homes for Sale 27513 From $400,000 to 450,000
Homes for Sale 27513 From $450,000 to 500,000
Homes for Sale 27513 From $500,000 to 550,000
$550,000 and Above

If you live in West Cary 27513 and are curious about your home's value, CLICK HERE to get a free Market Report. Or Contact Me for a free, no obligation consultation. Let me help you and your family make the right move.

Building a New Home in Cary - Lots, Land, New Construction

Building a New Home in Cary - Lots, Land, New Construction

Lots & Land For Sale in Cary, NC

There are many people who dream of finding a special piece of property to build their dream home. While it can be very rewarding to create something from the ground up, it can also be challenging. However, if you understand the process and are ready to tackle the adventure of building your dream home in Cary, NC - below are some available pieces of property that may interest you.

Some things to consider when Buying Land to Build a Custom Home

• Hire an Agent experienced in land transactions who will guide you through all of the potential pitfalls and help you accurately assess the value of the property. An experienced agent will know what tests should be performed on the property for percolation and drainage. A good agent will be able to advise you on the sales comparables of homes in the immediate area, so you don't "overbuild". 
• Hire a contractor and an Architect before you buy the property. Have them give their expert opinion on build-ability and cost before you invest.
• Shop around for loans and lenders. Not all lenders are experienced in land loans. Be prepared to make a substantially larger down payment than you may have to on a already built home.

LOTS & LAND FOR SALE IN CARY

Here are other possibilities in surrounding areas.

LOTS & LAND FOR SALE IN APEX

LOTS & LAND FOR SALE IN MORRISVILLE
LOTS & LAND FOR SALE IN PITTSBORO
LOTS & LAND FOR SALE IN HOLLY SPRINGS

New Construction Homes in Cary

For most people the cost and time factor outweighs the desire to build. Another option, if you are looking for a home that is brand new, is to look at new construction neighborhoods. Here are some homes that have been built within this year and some that are still under construction.

NEW CONSTRUCTION IN CARY
NEW CONSTRUCTION IN APEX
NEW CONSTRUCTION IN MORRISVILLE
NEW CONSTRUCTION IN HOLLY SPRINGS

Whether you are considering finding some land to build your dream home or you want to look into new construction options, please give me a call to discuss. I have been selling real estate in this area for over 13 years and can guide you through the process.

Buyer Representation

Keep in mind that buyer representation doesn't cost you a thing - sellers and builders pay the broker fees. Using a buyer agent is especially important with new construction. The builder is looking out for their bottom line, not yours. I know what's negotiable and can get you a great deal. Let's Meet!

Activities to Do With Your Kids in Cary, NC this Winter

Activities to Do With Your Kids in the Winter Months

Winter Fun in Cary, NC

While the Summer presents a multitude of opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment, Winter can also be fun - especially for kids! 

In this part of NC we are lucky that we get to enjoy some Winter pleasures, without being completely buried in low clouds and snow for months on end. NC winters are generally pretty mild with the occasional Winter storm with snow and ice. Last year seemed more cloudy than Winters past, which for the most part offer cool, crisp sunny days.

Most kids have their sleds ready, eagerly awaiting the first snowfall. Sometimes we get lucky and have snow for the Holidays, but likely it comes in January or February. In some recent years, we have only received a dusting, but still fun none the less.

The Winter months provide additional opportunities to enjoy quality time with family. Don't let cabin fever get to you this month. Try some of these indoor activities.

Build a Storage Cart for Toys - Kids have an innate specialty for cluttering up your house with their toys. And it really seems to pile up in the Winter when they spend more time indoors. The best way to resolve the problem of a messy room is to involve the children in an activity which helps to keep the room clean. You can make a simple toy storage cart out of wood or even use a sturdy cardboard box or a large plastic tote with wheels. Then have your child decorate it any way they want.

Painting Party - Clear out a space on the floor and get a giant roll of craft paper and some painters tape. Tape off a big work space and set out washable paint, markers and blank paper. Let your little artist create a masterpiece. Children can paint pretty pictures for relatives and friends as a gift for the Holidays. What could be a better holiday gift for granddad, than a special painting made just for him! You can also make ornaments and other dome decorations.

Arts & Crafts - Winter is the perfect time for arts and crafts. You can enjoy the creative flair of your child by engaging in different fun arts and crafts activities. You can help him make paper chains and snowflakes to decorate the house for the holidays. You can also show him how to make sock puppets and actually have a puppet show! A great local resource for crafting supplies is the Cary Creative Center. You can also take the kids to the workroom there to create works of art from recycled materials. Very fun!

Baking - Indulge yourself and have good fun with your children baking holiday treats. Bake chocolate cakes and cookies and enjoy them while going through old photographs. You can dress up and be a kid with your child! Make interesting things out of play dough and relive your childhood. Here is a great recipe for Homemade Play Dough.

Here is a very cute book to create your own Winter Fun. The Kids Winter Handbook.

Follow my Winter in Cary Board on Pinterest for more great ideas!

Triangle Real Estate Market Update September 2013

Triangle Real Estate Market Update September 2013

Local Real Estate Market Continues to Improve

In a recent report from the TMLS (Triangle Multiple Listing Service) it was stated the "homes are going like hotcakes". Our local figures are pretty impressive.

Compared to September of last year (2012) closed sales are up 15%. And for 3rd Quarter 2013, closed sales are up 26%. Typically this time of year the market slows, mostly due to the holiday season and people's lack of interest in moving this time of year.

Supply of homes available for sale has also decreased since last year. We are currently at a 3 month supply, which is relatively low. On average homes as staying on the market about 30 days less than this time last year. It was also noted that homes priced well and in great condition are selling within a week!

Several important lessons can be learned from this report if you are a buyer or a seller in our local market right now.

1. If you are thinking of selling - this is a great time. Especially before the end of the year. Why? Because you will have less competition since less homes are typically listed in Q4. And there is still buyer demand!
2. Pricing your home right and making sure it's in excellent showing condition will yield you a speedy sale.
3. If you are a buyer, it is important to be pre-approved for a loan and have your needs and wants in a home ironed out. So when that perfect home comes on the market - the one that everyone wants - you are ready to make a solid offer and close quickly. Multiple offers are occurring on the homes that everyone wants.

Take a look at this video from TMLS for more detailed information.

If you are considering buying or selling in the Cary, Apex, Morrisville or surrounding communities, please give me a call so we can weigh all your options and make sure you make the right move.

Holiday Shopping in Cary, NC

Holiday Shopping in Cary, NC

Your Guide to Local Holiday Shopping

Do you like to shop? I know I do! With the holidays approaching what better time than to start planning a few shopping outings. The Cary, NC area is a shoppers paradise. Everything you’re looking for, from clothing, shoes, jewelry, electronics, home décor – and some unexpected treasures – can be found in Cary’s unique shopping centers. Raleigh and Durham, just minutes away, also offer an abundance of shopping opportunities.

Shopping in Cary and Surrounding Areas

Cary Towne Center - Home to all your favorite stores like Belk, Dillard's, Macy's, JCPenney, and Sears; not to mention other great shops like Hollister Co., American Eagle, Bath & Body Works, Chicos, Coldwater Creek, LOFT, The Gap and Gymboree. Cary Towne Center is small local mall that is never crowded. While this may not appeal to some people, many like it because they don't have to wait in line or feel rushed. You will find all the name brand stores here with easy parking and no crowds. It's not fancy, but it has everything you need with 130 great stores and eateries.

Crossroads Plaza - Filled with great shopping, providing visitors with a combination of popular and local specialty shops. Most of the "big box" stores are located here such as Target, Best Buy, Kohls, Costco, World Market, Marshalls, Home Goods, Dick's, Bed Bath & Beyond, Michael's, Steinmart, and more. There are also many restaurants in this shopping area such as Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Jason's Deli, Sweet Tomatoes, Bob Evans and many more.

Waverly Place – Winner of the Best Kept Secret Award in the News & Observer 2012 Best of Cary Awards. Shops and restaurants surround the open-air Promenade, an acre of entertainment space and green space and a playground. Whole Foods, GiGi's Cupcakes, and other specialty shops and unique restaurants are located in this plaza. There is also a weekly Farmers Market here.

The Arboretum at Weston – Featuring fine dining, boutiques, outdoor cafe seating, day spa and fitness center. Visit Kristen's Place for fine ladies clothing, accessories and shoes as well as unique gifts. An, one of the areas finest restaurants is located here along with Bonefish Grill.

Park West Village, a recently developed shopping area in west Cary offers Target, BuyBuy Baby, Gander Mountain, Ross, TJ Maxx, Rack Room Shoes, and much more.

Dozens of distinctive shops are found in smaller, neighborhood shopping centers throughout the community.

Need a gift for that special occasion? Check out a little shop or designer boutique tucked away in Downtown Cary for that one of a kind item. Downtown Cary Shopping.

Want even more choices? 

Head toward Raleigh to the Crabtree Valley Mall. Wander through the boutiques and specialty gift shops in Cameron Village and enjoy a stroll through downtown Raleigh's City Market shopping district. The North Hills shopping area also offers many upscale shopping and dining options in an outdoor mall setting.

Or take the short drive to Durham and shop the Streets at Southpoint, a super-regional mall including an outdoor cityscape and more than 170 shops and restaurants. Featuring Nordstrom, Macy’s, JC Penney, Sears, Belk, Crate & Barrel, and a 16-screen cinema including IMAX. Recognized by USA Today as one of the nation’s "10 great places to spend it all in one place."

Just next door in downtown Apex, you will find a quaint and charming downtown with fun antique and specialty shops, an old fashioned ice-cream parlor and a bakery. A trip during the holidays is even more special with the town's holiday decor creating an even more charming atmosphere.

Whatever you are looking for, you’ll find it in Cary, NC and surrounding areas. You will never be bored with the wide variety of shopping opportunities here!

See you in the shops!