Are Buyers Overlooking Key Factors in Home Purchases?

Are Buyers Overlooking Key Factors in Home Purchases?

On May 28, 2012, in Home Trends, by Melissa Tracey

More Sharing ServicesShare|Share on facebookShare on twitterShare on emailShare on print

By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine

Home buyers may be so swayed by the home’s appearance and price that they may be missing out on researching some other important factors about the home that may keep them happy there for years to come. Articles in U.S. News & World Report and the Community Associations Network highlight some of the most common areas that buyers’ are overlooking in their home purchases.

Some of these overlooked areas include:

1. Nearby zoning. The surrounding area of a home or neighborhood can change drastically through the years so home buyers shouldn’t always assume that what they see today is what they’ll get a few years from now. Green picturesque landscapes outside their windows may one day be replaced by a row of retail stores or major highway? On the other hand, sometimes change can be viewed as good, such as a recreational park or school nearby.

To avoid unhappy surprises, though, home buyers should investigate the zoning of any vacant properties near them to give them more of an idea of what the future may hold.

2. Remodeling interference. Home buyers may have big plans for the home they want to buy, but are they sure they’ll be able to do everything on their list? Homeowner association’s may have something to say about home owners who want to change their exterior. They also may have something to say about additions, like adding a garage or a guest house, or even what type of plants you use in your front or backyard. Any home buyers with lofty remodeling goals may want to check with the community or homeowner association beforehand to make sure their plans will be allowed.

3. Sight, sound and smell. Home buyers might want to tune in to any noise that may pose a problem for them in the neighborhood, such as by visiting the home at several different times of day and night. Maybe it’s all quiet in the afternoon but there’s a loud dog barking next door all evening? Also, how’s the traffic at different times of day? The neighborhood may become a cut-through to commuters during rush hour … will that pose a problem?

And finally, home buyers shouldn’t forget to pay attention to the smell. Depending on which way the wind is blowing at certain times, you might pick up a whiff of a manufacturing plant or waste-processing facility.

So buyers should be encouraged to use all five of their senses in deciding the right home for them, and not forget that long-lasting happiness with a home purchase is much more than fancy upgrades.

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

Looking for a home is a process that needs.... to fit the buyer's lifestyle and comfort zone. Drive by the neighborhood, talk to neighbors....get a feel for the area. Most important of all is working with a professional Realtor who knows the community.....guidance, expertise and knowledge is important when purchasing one of life's most expensive purchases.
There are 2 kinds of Real Estate Professionals....those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of buying a home....and those who don't.
Check out my New Website http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com
Connect to North Shore News..... http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Home Trend Watch: Home Owners Want More Kitchen Space

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

The Kitchen always seems to be the focal point of a home...... it's a gathering place for conversation, food, family time and more....it certainly is the hub of all the happenings in the home. For this reason I understand the demand for space....this area has it all going on. In my opinion your home should fit your lifestyle......comfort and ease of living.
Check out my 'New Website" http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com
Let's connect on FB http://facebook.com/northshoreholly
Thank you and have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Quick Hot Design Tips From the International Builders’ Show

Home Owners Have Big Dreams for Their Current Home and Next Curious About Where Designers Get Their Inspiration Today?

8 Quick, Hot Design Tips From the International Builders’ Show

On February 13, 2012, in Curb Appeal, Home Trends, by Blog Contributor

More Sharing ServicesShare|Share on facebookShare on twitterShare on emailShare on print

By Erica Christoffer, multimedia Web producer, REALTOR® Magazine

Looking for quick, easy ideas to bring a home to life, add value, or prep for sale without spending a lot? Learn from the pros! Designers who presented at the International Builders’ Show in Orlando last week had a plethora low-cost, chic ideas to make to most of an interior space.

1. Transform closets: Your clients might consider turning a smaller, awkward closet into a built-in with cabinetry and shelving, or if there’s enough space, even a desk nook. Add dramatic dimension with disc lighting on each shelf. Buyers are looking to maximize every inch of a home with workspaces and storage solutions they’ll actually use. (Jerry Collin, Kay Green Design) [Here are some great before and after closet transformations from Real Simple.]

2. Create a ‘Garage Mahal’: Make the garage an attractive space with a dedicated recycling area, wall mounted shop-vacuum, and maybe a mini (or big) refrigerator for adult beverages. When in doubt, hang it up – provide hanging areas for bikes, tools, equipment, etc. Consider installing a workbench and storage. (Jillian Prichard Cooke, DES-SYN)

Example of a grey color scheme in a great room.

3. Avoid seasonal colors: Greys and stone colors are the new neutrals. Accent them with bursts of bright blues, oranges or reds. (Marc Thee, Marc-Michaels Interior Design)

4. Provide simple luxury: A foldout cabana, two outdoor lounge chairs, and a small table is an inexpensive way to give a backyard living space a sense of luxury. Stage it with candles, flowers or cool drinks (iced tea, lemonade, water, etc.) that you can serve during an open house. (Jillian Prichard Cooke, DES-SYN)

5. Set the mood: Do you have a listing that flushed in harsh light throughout the house? Try halogen narrow spot bulbs to create warm, pooled light for romantic shadows and definition. (Marc Thee, Marc-Michaels Interior Design)

6. Faux wood: Textured wall finishes add weight to a space, which can provide warmth and richness to great rooms. Wood mimicking wallpaper is a great way to get the look of wood paneling without big cost or long-term commitment. (Marc Thee, Marc-Michaels Interior Design)

7. Inexpensive creativity: Molding brings depth and clever detail to a space a low-cost: for example, use molding assembled as a square over a bed with two smaller pictures hung side-by-side within the square. (Jillian Prichard Cooke, DES-SYN)

8. Give them room for thought: Create computer-generated room layout boards to help buyers envision various uses for flex space, such as a family room, office, kids’ play area, library, etc. Consider matting the floor plan  ideas for a professional presentation. Works well for new- and existing-home sales alike. (Jerry Collin, Kay Green Design)

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

Tips are great....especially cost effect ones. Lucky the professionals.. let us in on their money saving big impact ideas. Loved... introducing the color gray into my home..what a great color... for the fact that the big punch is with the accessories. Creating a comfortable, easy mood in a room is important. An interior that is not over powering.... and feels good ..... is key.
Launched New Website....please check it out! http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What Homes Have Sold In Staten Island's North Shore Neighborhood Of St.George?

Staten Island's North Shore is booming.....with excitement and anticipation of what is to become ....the North Shore's waterfront haven of revitalization. http://www.silive.com/northshore/index.ssf/2011/12/north_shore_2030_report_en...

What homes have sold in the St. George community this year? http://mls.sibor.com/SIBRReports/ListitLib/show_report.aspx?ID=2511702794

What's going on in Staten Island's North shore......checkout my facebook page ! http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Learning From Top Industry Experts.

Thrilled meeting...Chris Smith,Tech Savvy Agent at Triple Play convention. http://www.inman.com/news/2011/05/12/chris-smith-tech-savvy-agent-co-founder-... great meeting up with Sandy Edry of Citi Habitats NYC. http://edryrealestate.com/

http://HollyWiesnerOlivieri.com

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Exciting Day....Staten Island Chamber Of Commerce Building Award Winners....

Today was the  Staten Island Chamber Of Commerce 50th Annual Building Awards.....  it was a pleasure as a committee member and judge to recognize Staten Island's architects, builders, designers and craftsmen as the best in the industry. Congratulations to all the award recipients....and the Bivona family, Jacobson Contracting Inc. http://www.jacobsoncontracting.com/ and IMC. Interior Motives Corp  http://interiormotivescorp.com/services/  on receiving one of the most prestigious award....The Residential Chairman's Award. http://www.sichamber.com/

Looking for homes on Staten Island......checkout  www.holly1.listingbook.com     http://facebook.com/northshoreholly

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Driven By The Wind.......Visit To Staten Island

Nice to meet the Green Mountain Energy crew, www.greenmountain.com

on a recent visit to Staten Island's North Shore community.

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What Are Your Top Lifestyle Priorities?

If you want to make a sale, selling the lifestyle in a community or neighborhood is becoming an important piece of the presentation of a home, according to a new survey. One in five home owners have moved or would like to move because they don’t think their neighborhood or community is a good fit to their lifestyle, according to a recent survey of more than 1,000 home owners and future home buyers

The majority of those surveyed said they would place more weight on lifestyle factors–such as family-friendly neighborhoods or easy access to cultural activities like museums and music venues–when shopping for a future home. The survey was conducted by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC and and Meredith Corp.

“While the relation of price to features has become very favorable in many areas throughout the country, ultimately the surrounding community may determine how happy you are with your home purchase,” says Sherry Chris, president and CEO of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC, which used the survey results to launch a “Lifestyle Search” tool on its web site to help buyers factor in community preferences–such as “arts and recreation” and “family and community”–more in their search.

Here are some of the top lifestyle priorities survey respondents reported they’ll be looking for in their next home:

• Ease of commuting by car: 38%

• Access to health and safety services: 34%
• Family friendly neighborhood: 33%
• Availability of retail stores: 32%
• Access to cultural activities: 21%
• Public transportation access: 19%
• Nightlife and restaurant access: 18%
• Golf friendly area-access to golf courses: 6%

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

What is important to you when deciding on a neighborhood or community? Well I know what I like.....parks, easy access to NYC, cultural centers, friendly people. You decide.... what compliments your lifestyle....then when choosing a home have your list ready....to fit your lifestyle!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Time To Celebrate....Silver Lake Park, Staten Island N.Y.

Happy couple.... spotted in Silver Lake Park http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/silverlakepark . What a great way to celebrate..... future wedding....with spectacular photos in this fabulous park!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What Are The Top Home Improvement Safety Tips?

Flickr image courtesy of The New Ruffian.

Now that spring is on its way, it's time to get going on that long list of projects that has been building during the wet, cold months.

Reviewing some basic safety points is part of shaking off the cobwebs. Occasionally, we've had to learn this the hard way. There were a couple of doozies early in our careers and, frankly, we consider ourselves lucky that we're still here to tell about them.

Years ago, Bill was using a pneumatic nail gun to install a soffit in a rental house in Boise, Idaho. With just one more nail to go, he decided to lean and stretch rather than climb down and reposition the ladder. His hand slipped, the gun fired a 16d nail between his thumb and index finger, and we got to make a trip to the emergency room.

As for Kevin, he was using a reciprocating saw (the one that looks like a swordfish) to cut a cripple stud away from a mudsill when we were replacing a foundation. While he was foolishly pulling the saw toward him, it kicked back and plunged into his leg. There wasn't much blood, but it did make mincemeat of about an inch of his quadriceps muscle.

Underwriters Laboratories, the product testing group that's been around for 115 years, recently sent out an email with a list of safety precautions. Today, we would like to pass along some of these tips and add a few of our own.

Suit up properly

Article continues below

Advertise with Inman

If spraying paint or herbicides, cover up from head to toe. Same goes when installing insulation. Wear shoes and socks, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, appropriate gloves, head covering, safety glasses or goggles, and an appropriate respirator. When painting indoors, open all doors and windows and use fans when practical.

If the job is noisy, wear earplugs.

Invest in a good pair of safety glasses and use them.

Beware of heights. Use the 4-to-1 rule for ladder placement. For every 4 feet of ladder height, the bottom of the ladder should be 1 foot away from the wall or object it is leaning against. This works out to about a 75 percent incline. Pay special attention to the ladder weight and height limits. As a general rule, the third step from the top is the limit of safety. Always use a ladder that is long enough for the job. Overreaching or balancing on the top rung is an invitation for disaster.

Inspect the ladder before you use it. A cracked wooden ladder or bent metal one is an accident waiting to happen.

10 rules for power tools

1. Inspect your tools before use. Inspect especially for frayed power cords and cracked or broken casings. If the tool is damaged, have it repaired by a qualified technician or toss it.

2. Follow instructions, not intuition. Maintain and use power tools in accordance with the manufacturer's warnings, precautions and instructions.

3. Check the switch on power tools and garden appliances to make sure it's in the off position before you plug it in.

4. Keep your tools in shape. Don't carry tools by the cord and never yank the cord when removing it from an outlet. When disconnecting the cord, always grasp the plug, not the wire. Keep the cord away from heat, oil and sharp edges.

5. When necessary, use clamps or a vise to hold work in place. This frees both hands to operate the tool.

6. Buy a saw with a blade guard and don't disable it. Before operating saws with guards, make sure they are in place and in proper working order. Kevin's father-in-law was a master brickmason. To increase productivity, he wired the blade guard on his circular saw in the open position. Production increased until the day he set the still-running saw in his lap.

7. Prevent against kickback. If a saw blade begins to bind, immediately stop the cut and hold the saw and work piece completely still. Wait for the saw blade to stop before pulling away from a cut.

8. Discard saw blades that are chipped, bent or in any way damaged.

9. Never leave an active power tool unattended. Unplug power tools before leaving the room and store them out of children's reach.

10. Remove all jewelry before using power tools.

Other things to consider

Be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you know where others are at all times to prevent accidents or injuries. Keep kids and pets away from tools and projects.

A clean, well-lit workspace is a safe workspace. Store power tools, sharp tools or dangerous materials on high shelves or in a locked storage cabinet out of a child's reach.

Use the proper extension cord. If you're tackling outdoor home improvement projects, make sure extension cords are rated for outdoor use.

Take your time. Rushing can lead to accidents, injuries, and more often than not produces an inferior finished product.

Finally, keep a first-aid kit on hand. Even the most careful among us can have accidents. It's the nature of the home improvement beast.

via inman.com

It certainly has been a long cold Winter.....time to tackle those home improvement projects. Remember....don't rush...think out your project,,,and always consider your and others safety. If you are tired..stop for a while or tackle on another day. Spring time brings out the smiles,sunshine, flowers and outdoor enjoyment. Enjoy your project and be safe!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

What Will The New Homes in 2015 Look Like ?

The sluggish housing market has reshaped what Americans will look for in their next home as home owners get more practical with their wish-list and wiser about their use of space.

By 2015, homes are expected to average 2,152 square feet–10 percent smaller than the average size of single-family homes in the first three quarters of 2010, according to a recent study by the National Association of Home Builders.

Say goodbye to living rooms–they are likely to be the first casualty in new homes due to the dwindling square footage. More than half of builders say they expect that by 2015 the living room will merge with other spaces in the home, and 30 percent say living rooms will vanish completely.

Here are some other predictions about the changes in design of new homes by 2015, according to the survey:

• Family rooms likely will increase in size–the only area of a home expected to get larger.
• The size of the entryway foyer and dining room are expected to get smaller.
• New homes in 2015 will likely come with the following: A great room containing the kitchen, foyer, and living room; walk-in closets in the master bedroom; a separate laundry room; ceiling fans; a master bedroom on the first floor in two-story homes; and a two-car garage.

Homes also are expected to become more “green” and technologically advanced, boasting such features as low-E windows, engineered wood beams, water-efficient features (such as dual-flush toilets or low-flow fauce

via styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org

Wow! Lifestyles have surely changed through the years.....would you ever consider....no more living room space ? Larger family rooms? This tells me...family space is critical in new housing design. "Green" design is big !....
environmental awareness and introducing energy efficient features into your home...... builders looking to scale back on their sq.ft. of new homes. I feel change is good....improving on your home quality of life is only a positive that will give way to a happy healthy lifestyle.

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

How Do You Hold On To Tradition ?

You hold on to tradition by ... honoring the past memories and good times which in my opinion is an important component of values and heritage..... at times it is lacking in today's busy times. A local establishment with a long history on Staten Island's North Shore, has new owners.....who believe that holding on to tradition is important to the community. Justino's Pizzeria formerly Al's Pizza located at 965 Jewett Ave. in Staten Island's North Shore community of "Meiers Corners" is embracing Al's Pizza's past history. Al's Pizza was a staple pizzeria on Staten Island's North Shore.....I remember as a child eating at Al's. It was always a friendly neighborhood pizzeria that was a staple in the community.

 

Great food is prepared fresh daily with traditional homestyle Italian cooking......Justino's pizzeria has Al's original sign highlighted behind their pizza counter. The pizza is still cooked in the original 50 yr.old ovens. Is that the secret ingredient? I suggest stopping by and telling Joe , Holly sent you.... enjoy the tradition and good food that certainly has made its mark on Staten Island's North Shore. Again welcome to businesses,people and homes of Staten Island's North Shore community.

Please visit SINY's North Shore Expert page! http://facebook.com/northshoreholly  Visit my website www.holly1.listingbook.com  Join me on twitter http://www.twitter.com/hollyolivieri

There are two kinds of Real Estate professionals..... Those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling a home.... and those who don't. Have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Is That Really What The Client Wants ?

My phone conversation with a perspective client last evening, prompted me to write about our chat. Now this person doesn't know me from a hole in the wall (old slang I heard as a child). Our conversation was intriguing and a reminder of  some important elements...knowledge,communication and compassion in today's business transactions.

Her concerns were genuine about her dealings when her home was listed for sale ....lack of knowledge, communication and overall effectiveness in job performed .She asked me to look at her expired listing on the MLS....what was my opinion of what I thought about the photos previewed for her home? Also how was I going to effectively word her listing ...being unique in its interior features. Basic skills should not be taken for granted..concentrating on client needs...listening closely to their concerns and arriving at a solution. This conversation last evening was a reminder of the importance of basic business skills....knowledge in field of work, communication and compassion. In my opinion...today's economic times have created an environment in which we must not take people or situations for granted.

Check out homes for sale in Staten Island at  www.holly1.listingbook.com . Businesses, people and homes highlighted in S.I.'s North Shore at - http://facebook.com/northshoreholly. Also join me on twitter http://www.twitter.com/hollyolivieri.

There are two kinds of Real Estate professionals.... Those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling a home..... And those who don't. Have an extraordinary day!

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource

Do You Like It Fresh And Delicious... with A Twist ? Check out What I Found On Staten Island's North Shore !

Welcome to Businesses, People and Homes of Staten Island's North Shore Community. Marie's Gourmet located in the Silver Lake community of Staten Island's North Shore is today's business highlight.

A car wash has transformed into a fabulous popular Italian-American restaurant. Looking for a home cooked meal with an untraditional twist? The last three years Marie's Gourmet located at 977 Victory Blvd. has been the choice for delectable fresh cooked meals....popular with many of the locals. Owners Mario and Brian have done a great job treating the Silver Lake community to a delicious selection of pizza's, salads and Italian favorites just to name a few. My personal favorite is the insalata gourmet pizza....mounds of fresh grape tomatoes, red onions, mixed greens, shaved imported reggiano cheese topped with balsamic reduction. Wow is this yummmmmmy. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, also offered is free delivery. A twist on breakfast... breakfast pizza made with fluffy eggs, cheese and choice of toppings. Delicious!  Mario's Mom Marie, was his inspiration for Marie's Gourmet... he enjoyed her scrumptious meals created with skilled cooking techniques.

If you are looking for a scrumptious home cooked meal to satisfy your hungry appetite definitely check out  Marie's Gourmet ! http://www.idine.com/details.htm?merchantId=93875&menu=true      And tell them Holly sent you !

Please click on the link and once on my page click "like" this ... SINY's North Shore Expert page! http://facebook.com/northshoreholly ,  Visit my website at  www.holly1.listingbook.com . Also join me on twitter  http://www.twitter.com/hollyolivieri 

There are 2 kinds of Real Estate professionals... those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling a home....and those who don't. Have an extraordinary day !

 

 

 

Posted via email from Holly Wiesner Olivieri , The Staten Island Real Estate Resource