OPEN-CONCEPT MODULAR KITCHEN IS IN VOGUE!

A Modernistic Lookout Into A Contemporary Kitchen:

A perfect example of a Cutting-edge Contemporary Modular Kitchen.

An open concept kitchen is a prerequisite for neoteric buyers. A spacious open-concept modular kitchen that comes with granite counter tops, glass door cabinets, a large pantry, stylish tile floors and contemporary kitchen fittings has tailored the basis for a true chefs delight in a trendy buyers’ market. Let’s take a short tour into what’s trending, when it comes to the most anticipated avant-garde kitchen in 2016.

According to definition, modular design is an approach that subdivides a system into smaller parts or modules that can be independently created and then used in different systems to drive multiple functionalities.

"Contemporary" typically means of the moment or current, the design that prevails in the very moment. Contemporary kitchens can be modern as well, but they can also have elements of other styles. When I think of what makes a kitchen contemporary, it most often includes cutting-edge design and technology and use of new trends and materials. To be more luminous, let’s say today we are being more focused on the contemporary style kitchens and its subservient attributes. The most popular designs nowadays are found to be contemporary in design and form while some are even modern, all the more they become interesting as we see how functional and wieldy they are.

With more of us choosing open-plan living, the kitchen has increasingly become central to the look and feel of our homes. In order to play to your kitchen’s strengths and boost its designer appeal, you must start off with proper planning. Simply follow the following steps:

• Planning Your Layout

• Materials

• Color & Finishes

• Fixtures & Fittings

• Appliances

• Storage

• Contemporary Design Features

• Joinery & Hardware

• Styling

• Adding the Wow Effect

• Ensure Maximum Compatibility & Functionality

The Most Aspired Open-concept Modular Kitchen.

While the beauty of the modern kitchen lies in its individuality, some key features run through every successful design. Each of these essential ingredients is both functionally satisfying and aesthetically pleasing, contributing to the smooth running of this busy room to achieve a perfectly personalized kitchen with elevated usability.

An informal dining area, centered around a table or island unit, defines this as a flexible living space. Many modern kitchens are open-plan, featuring distinct zones for cooking, eating and lounging. An island unit can act as a boundary between these areas, creating a subtle division.

The principle of maximizing light and space is all-important in the modern kitchen and this is achieved with a combination of generous storage and plenty of reflective materials. Glossy white cabinets, stainless steel veneers, and glass or mirrored back-splash all help to bounce light around the room. Meanwhile, curved corner units can be used to create a streamlined look and handle-free cupboards keep the finish clean. Within a pared-back scheme there’s room for carefully chosen dramatic pieces. At its most simple, the focus might be limited to bold taps or a show stopping floor-lamp, but the decor of modern kitchens has become increasingly striking. From glamorous engineered surfaces to the uncompromising industrial ingredients of concrete and steel, design is more confident and extreme than ever before.

Allow generous flow of natural light into your kitchen,
it makes a noticeable difference!

During the initial concept stage of planning a kitchen, talk with your kitchen designer about what you want and how you use, or would like to use, your kitchen. He or she can then assess the space to establish the best layout for achieving that, effecting a smooth flow from one work zone to the next. Essentially, kitchen zoning is based on a designer’s knowledge of aesthetics, usability and efficiency, but the beauty of this approach is that there’s room for flexibility.

New technology and modern materials are included to varying degrees in contemporary kitchens, but features such as a beautifully integrated composite sink, the reassuring safety of an induction hob or the sense of luxury created by soft-close drawers and cupboards are particularly appealing. 

Professionally-inspired elements include extendable spray taps and units ‘wrapped’ in stainless steel. The breakfast bar has evolved into an overhanging table, making island units an even more versatile choice. When a modern kitchen is more adorned with texture and pattern, it goes contemporary. The glass tile, concrete counter-tops, whimsical lighting and bar stools add another layer. Finally, as TVs, speakers, laptops and sofas firmly establish themselves in the kitchen, it’s clear that this is a place where comfort, functionality and innovative style work together.

Incorporate intelligent lighting to accentuate
specific attributes of your Modular Kitchen.

A contemporary kitchen essentially features all shapes available: an angular roofline and windows, a curved hood and counter-top, wall cabinets with shifting heights and sizes that enhance the squares and rectangles. In addition to the various shape-related elements, multiple layers of materials are also being used, such as natural and painted wood tones, stone tile, glass counter-tops and metal. This sort of layered mixing is a signature element of contemporary kitchens. Mixing materials, such as the wood, metal and stone here, can make a kitchen look modern, luxe and classic all at the same time. 
Contemporary can be soft, earthy and eclectic as well. The funky modern light fixture in the foreground contrasts with the different tile materials on the island and back-splash and the muted counter-top surface. 

Take it to the top. For a sleek and modern look, optimize your storage and display areas by taking the cabinets right up to the ceiling. Full-height cabinets create a more streamlined look and offer a place for those less-frequently used items to live.

Add Personality to Your Kitchen - Quirky little details, unexpected ingredients and smart styling help give a kitchen its own identity. A little imagination and some inventive styling can softly steer this room toward a look filled with personality. Make your kitchen work-space stand out with colored ceramic tile, back-painted glass, butcher block, a cozy banquette and room for lots of cookbooks in a stunning shelf. A boldly graphic wall and soft lit cabinets can create a strong focal point in the kitchen area.

Let your kitchen reflect your personality!

You can even choose to be extra bold. Go for high impact with a strong, unexpected color.  A dark weighty color is rich and striking against exposed brick and dark gray or black cabinetry. Glass and acrylic back-splashes come in infinite colors and designs to create a unique color scheme. 

Against a minimalist white cabinetry, colored LED lighting along the floor and under the upper units adds ambiance, interest and depth. You can change the hue of your multicolored system to suit the mood or occasion. Programmable LED lighting lets you restyle your kitchen at the touch of a button.

Create a gallery. With plenty of white, reflective surfaces and masses of natural light, a kitchen can be the perfect place to display art. Showcase your taste and personality, whether that’s quirky and kitsch or classic and refined. Consider creating a gallery wall, being careful not to position it too close to the sink or stove. As an add-on, employ the rule of three. For accessories such as vases or canisters, display them in odd numbers, in particular three, for maximum style and impact. This simple design trick can elevate your kitchen from ho-hum to hello.

Symbiotic plantation of thyme, mint, basil etc in modish ways
can help augment your kitchen's expediency & liveliness.

 An open kitchen overlooking a Living Area gives family together time. For a family with small children, a living space that offers flexibility and accessibility is a key necessity. It’s a multi-functional family space where parents can keep an eye on the kids while going about their business, whether in the kitchen, utility room or living area. Open up your kitchen to stunning views, better connecting with the home's other rooms and the outdoors. You can reform your edition of a luminous open kitchen extending it to the backyard, perhaps creating a peaceful living space with garden view and private barbecue area.

Don’t forget to add the ‘Wow Factor’ to your kitchen! There’s more to getting a fabulous kitchen than designing and installing it. It's the little details that elevate its overall look and appeal. Remember, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication!

Use rustic wooden boards or wallpapers
to add aesthetic value to your kitchen.

Choose a dark theme
to bring-in the ritzy look!

Pop of elegant colors can add a 'Wow Effect'
to your Contemporary Kitchen.

However, not all buyers have the earnest craving for a contemporary-style modular kitchen, some may prefer the Classic, Traditional, Transitional, Modern, Eclectic, Cottage, Craftsman or Mediterranean styles of kitchen even in today’s time over the much talked-over type here. The best advice is to incorporate latest attributes, facilities and idiosyncrasy to turn your orthodox kitchen into a more efficient, convenient and functional work-space, if not in terms of aura and ambiance just to create an impact on the mere impression of your home. It has to be dynamic in efficacy and fine-tuned deceptively in all the rage in order to keep you in pace.

When a graphic designer and an architect put their heads together on a kitchen redesign, the result is a stylishly simple space with improved functionality and upgraded amenities. If you are not confident enough, the better idea is to consult and hire experts to avoid wastage of time and money, in other words to avoid repetitive experimentation to reach your envisaged imaginary semblance. Think before you embark on the creative venture and don’t risk it to start off without a master plan. Good Luck!

Cash out refinancing and real estate investment

Cash out refinancing and real estate investment

Opting for cash out refinancing is one method that I would recommend to someone that is serious about building out their real estate investment and property portfolio. You are able to take out a new mortgage with a principal that is larger than your current mortgage. Many a person has been able to do this and get a lower interest rate and with the added bonus of getting the cash they need for their investment venture.

The home equity that we have in our possession is really the part of our home that we own. This is built by the payments that we make to our mortgage and through the appreciation of the value of our homes. This means that our home equity is often trapped and unavailable to us unless we take home equity loans or refinance our mortgage. Cash out refinancing allows us to access this equity. We are able to use this cash from the equity that we get and reinvest it into our property portfolio.

Broken down simply in the form of an example we will see how the equity is made available. Let us say that you own a home and that it is mortgaged to the sum of $200,000 and you have repaid a certain amount. Let us say that that amount is $100,000. Then you have available to you a sum of $100,000 for equity and this is money that can be utilized for your investment.

You can take the option of cash out refinancing by getting a new mortgage for your home to the original value. This means $100,000 is given to you in your hand for whatever purpose and you may have a lowered mortgage payment as well. There are many factors that will make this option a desirable one for you and you must evaluate the market circumstances as well as the personal situation that you are faced with and the purpose for which the money is intended.

Interest rates on mortgages fluctuate from time to time and it is important that this be considered as well as other factors. It can be simple for you to reach for the option of refinancing when interest rates are low but there is a factor of the expenses to consider before this is thought worthwhile and as such a balance is needed in this decision between where it is viable to refinance or not viable as the case may be.

It is up to you to do the necessary research and determine the feasibility of the option to your circumstances. The circumstances on the market will also influence the benefits or disadvantages of this type of refinancing and all this has to be considered in the decision making process. It is no easy decision to decide to refinance your property so ensure that you are fully capable of meeting the payments required and that there is little chance that you will be unable to do so. Only opt for a refinancing plan that meets your budget.

What is a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) in Real Estate

Research & complete CMA before Selling

"What is Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)" is a common question in the real estate sector. Comparable Market Analysis, also known as “CMA,” is an analysis of recently sold homes (“comparables”), preferably sold within the past 6-12 months, that helps establish a price range for a home which is usually carried out by a real estate professional.

The purpose of a CMA is to help determine the probable price of a home and can help eliminate bank appraisal problems once a buyer and seller agree to a price as the appraised value should be equal to or more than a real estate professionals suggested listing price. However, no methods really exist that can predict for how much a home will sell for with 100% accuracy.

Although, an accurate CMA should be very close to a homes final sale price. There are many “pieces to the puzzle” that a real estate agent takes into consideration when completing a CMA to help determine a list price for a home and help predict a probable sale price.

The interior features of a home form an integral part when performing a CMA. Every home has different important features. When performing a CMA a real estate professional will take into consideration many interior features.

• Area Dimention: The total square footage of a home plays a large role in a CMA. A real estate agent should compare homes that are very similar in square footage (within 200-300 square feet is best). The square footage of a home that is much smaller or larger, should be adjusted in a CMA.  Typically only heated areas can be counted in the square footage of a home.

• Bedrooms: The total number of bedrooms is an important consideration in determining the value of a home. If a home has 3 bedrooms and all of the recently sold comparable homes have 4 or more bedrooms, a real estate agent should make an adjustment on the subject properties value.

• Bathrooms: The total number of bathrooms is an important interior feature of a home. An adjustment should be made within the CMA if a home has 1 less full bath then all of the comparable properties. Additionally, the condition of a bathroom is also an important part of a CMA. A home with bathrooms renovated in the past few years should have a higher value than a home that has bathrooms with backdated decor.

• Kitchen: A home's kitchen will often sell a home. There are many features within a kitchen that impact a CMA. The type of cabinets (Cherry, Oak, Maple, Etc), type of counter tops (Granite, Quartz, Corian, Etc), type of back splash, and type of appliances are just a few to mention. In completing a CMA the condition of the kitchen needs to be weighed when comparing the subject property to recent comparable sales.

• Basement: In areas where homes do have basements, this is an important feature when determining value. There are many different types of basements, full basements, partial basements, crawl space basements, full finished basements, partially finished basements, and walkout basements.  A home that has a fully finished basement should have a higher value than a home that is built on a slab or an unfinished basement. In some cases, walkout basements and homes with means of egress from the basement, can be counted in the square footage of a home.

• Flooring: In most cases, the type of flooring will impact the value. There are many different types of flooring. Linoleum, hardwood, ceramic tile, and laminate are just a few that are noteworthy.  A home with a high-end ceramic tiled kitchen floor should have a higher value than a comparable home that has linoleum flooring in a kitchen.

Alongside interior features, exterior features of a home also counts essentially. These exterior features should have an impact on the value within a CMA.

• Siding:  The type of siding from one home to another can make a difference in determining value.  A home with low maintenance vinyl siding will typically carry more value than a home with cedar or wood siding, due to the maintenance involved.

• Windows: Windows are important to a home’s energy efficiency as well as it’s safety and often important to a prospective buyer. When completing a CMA, a real estate professional should consider a home that has newer vinyl thermopane windows to have more value than a home with original wood storm windows.

• Roof: The roof of a home has one of the highest replacement costs. When was a roof last replaced and whether it was a complete tear-off or not, should be important to a real estate agent completing a CMA.  A home with a brand new tear-off roof is going to have a higher value than a home that has a 20-year-old roof that will need a total tear-off.  If a seller is unsure of a roof age, an experienced real estate agent should be able to get a good “ballpark” on the roofs age.

• Fencing: Whether a home has chain link fence, stockade fence, invisible fence, or is partially fenced, or no fencing, should be taken into consideration when completing a CMA.

• Parking/Garage: The presence of a garage and/or driveway is a very important exterior feature to many potential buyers. Many buyers won’t consider looking at a home with no garage and/or driveway. Within a CMA, there should be an adjustment made for the number of garage spaces and also whether a home has a driveway or not. For example, a home with a 2 car garage has more value than a recent comparable sale that has a 1 car garage.

• Patio’s/Deck’s: Outdoor space is important to many buyers. The presence of a deck or patio should be adjusted for within a CMA.

Acreage normally will have the largest impact on a homes value.  A home with a 4 acre lot will have higher value than a home with a 2 acre lot.  Additionally, a homes lot location will impact the value of a home. A home that is located on a “corner lot” will traditionally have less value than a home that is not located on a corner.

The mechanics of a home should also be taken into consideration when performing a CMA.  The mechanics of a home are items of a home that a buyer should be looking at when viewing a home. The age, model, homes heating system, cooling system (if applicable), hot water heater, and electrical service all play a part in determining the value of a home within a CMA. A home with a 20 year old 80% efficient furnace and a 15 year old 30-gallon hot water heater is going to have less value than a comparable home that has a 2 year old 95% efficient furnace and a tank-less water heater.

In CMA only the same types of home with similar features should be compared. If performing a CMA on a ranch style home, they must use comparable sales within the last 12 months that are also ranch style homes. Comparing a ranch style home to a 2-story colonial style home is not acceptable.

Moreover, Location should be extremely important to a real estate professional while performing a CMA. There are many location based factors that should be taken into consideration.

• City or Town: In most cases, when a real estate professional is performing a CMA, they need to find the recent comparable sales within the same city, town, or village.  In some rare cases this may not be possible, but if there are comparable sales in the same area, those must be used first.

• Proximity to the Subject Property: The distance from the subject property needs to be considered.  A home that is 10 miles from the subject is likely to be used before a home that is 75 miles from the subject.

• School District: Many communities have several school districts within the same city, town, or village. The subject property and recent comparable sales should in most cases have the same school district.

Truly, pricing a home accurately is a science and takes lots of practice.  A real estate expert with local market knowledge should be able to closely predict what a house will sell for by completing a detailed comparative market analysis (CMA). CMA is crutial and extremely essential in determining the right price of a home to sell it off faster. Right after you make the decision to sell your home, hire an expert to carry out a CMA for you otherwise it can be a troublesome business.

Find Group Homes in D.C.

D.C. Group Homes

What Is A ‘Group Home’?

A 'Group Home' is a private house that serves as a home for people who are not in the same family but have a common characteristic. In the US, in D.C. for instance, this would mean a home for people who need social assistance or who are not able to live alone or without proper care for safety reasons.

Traditionally, a group home was considered as a dwelling for those who may be recovering drug addicts, developmentally disabled, abused or neglected youths, and/or young people with a criminal record; but nowadays a group home has evolved into a shared dwelling unit for those who can’t afford to rent individual homes for residence. A group home can also refer to family homes in which children and youth of the foster care system are placed until foster families are found for them. People who live there usually have to help maintain the household by doing chores or helping to manage a budget. Many D.C. students & workers are being accommodated in this group home mechanism. It has become a popular gimmick when it comes to affordability.

There are typically three to sixteen residents, as well as a resident manager or service staff. Residents may have their own room or share rooms, and share facilities such as laundry, bathroom, kitchen and common living areas. The opening of group homes is occasionally fought against by neighbors who fear that it may lead to a rise in crime and/or a drop in property values.

Living In D.C. ‘Group Homes’-

Inhabitants Relaxing In Living Room Of A Group Home

Living in D.C. can be expensive and lonely, but it does not have to be. One housing option that remains a staple with newcomers to the area is locally known as ‘group housing’. But beyond just saving some cash, there are a number reasons why D.C.’s group house culture might be the right choice for you. However, every convenience comes with both pros & cons.

‘Group Home’ Pros:

'Group homes' are a fairly common living arrangement in the area due to the consistently high demand for rentals and type of housing stock available. The transient nature of many jobs in D.C. like visiting interns, people on fellowships, work-study programs and others ensures there are always people looking for roommates and a house to share.

While a number of group house listings can be found on RadPad & Craiglist, you can also try seeking out group homes that function as a ‘community’ of sorts based around a common cause or set of core values, like environmental sustainability for example. This is where the idea group housing strikes really a chord with certain housing hunters.

Many D.C. group houses have rich histories and personalities of their own, beyond being part of a community and the social connections made possible by sharing meals and common areas, two other benefits of group housing include the cost savings realized by splitting utility bills, etc. and the relative flexibility some homes offer in breaking a lease if necessary.

While many of the District’s group homes are older and sometimes shabby row houses, there is at least one local forward-thinking development company moving the idea of group housing into the 21st century. D.C.-based Ditto Residential is creating innovative residential projects throughout the city, many with the specific needs of the millennial-aged renter in mind. One new project called the Oslo, for example, is geared toward apartment-sharing millennials, featuring relatively small bedrooms in exchange for private bathrooms in each and spacious common areas and kitchens.

‘Group Home’ Cons:

Certainly, sharing a house with roommates comes with the predictable pitfalls, you need to be prepared for the downsides: lack of privacy, roommate tensions, noise and the inevitable messes & being prepared to accept a certain amount of chaos at any time.

Outwardly, it appears that in part to the District’s recent residential building boom, many group houses are being converted into condos or outright razed in favor of newer, sleeker and more expensive apartments,  turning the traditional group house settlement into an endangered species of sorts, so finding a fit that is right for you can be quite challenging.

Plausibly, finding the right group house can be somewhat of a ‘crap-shoot’. Beyond the cause-oriented ‘communities’, Craigslist remains one of the better options for finding potential housemates, but be prepared to sift through a lot of junk listings. Many group homes also rely on public open houses to find roommates, sometimes including a questionnaire for prospective tenants to complete to help identify compatibility.

If you are really looking forward to accommodate yourself in a group home,  D.C. is a great place to find one of your top-drawer ones. With a little bit of homework and an open mind, you can find a house that will be affordable and fun – and hopefully without too many abandoned burritos.

Opening A ‘Group Home’-

In order for an agency to open a group home in a neighborhood, it has to follow a series of complicated procedures, including finding a location, purchasing or renting it, and applying for a license with the State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. License applications are extremely detailed & have to be reviewed by local community boards before they are sent to the State office for final approval.

With group homes in the District answering to one or more D.C. government agencies, figuring out where to call with concerns about a resident's welfare or complaints about a home's operation has been a source of frustration for some people.

Currently, AABR services consumers of all ages, and has a long waiting list, Assistant Director of Residential Services Ruth Edoho said, “Something is forcing us to find more space.” She said, “We’re looking into opening up more sites. Getting the word out about group homes and how beneficial they are is a good way to start.”

D.C. ‘Group Home’ Scenario -

D.C. ‘Group Home’ Scenario

Covering a swath of Northwest and Northeast Washington from Petworth up to the northern tip of the city, Ward 4 contains nearly a quarter of the 338 group homes regulated by the city's social service agencies. Of the 113 group homes serving people with developmental disabilities, 47 of them, or more than 40% are in Ward 4. Although the number of group homes is greatest in Ward 4, wards 5, 7 and 8 each have more than 60 group homes.

Ward 3, the city's wealthiest area, has two. In Ward 5, which like Ward 4 has many single-family residences; most of the group homes serve people with developmental disabilities or mental illness. Ward 7 has more juvenile justice homes than any other part of the city, which may reflect the fact that 55% of young people under the supervision of the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services are from Ward 7 and neighboring Ward 8.

The group homes in Ward 8 include a third of the 77 in the District that house foster children who have not been placed in family homes. Almost 40% of the District's 2,100 foster children are from Ward 8, according to the Child and Family Services Agency. Collectively, the group homes overseen by the District house 2,000 to 3,000 people.

Every night at around 7 p.m., the residents on 162nd Street and 35th Avenue in Flushing gather together and prepare to enjoy a home cooked meal. They sit around their dinner table, bow their heads and say grace before placing their napkins on their laps and passing around the food. Dulcette, one of the consumers proudly looked around the place & said, “This is my home, I love this home.”

But it does so much more than that. Ruth Edoho said that the ‘house is like a family & there’s so much love here, we make this their home.’ Although there is a lot of ‘ignorance’ about group homes in the community, she said, ‘If people really took the time to see how we work, they’d see what wonderful things we do for these wonderful people.’

‘The city is limited by law in what it can tell the public about most prospective group homes or the people living in them,’ Attorney General Peter Nickles mentioned, ‘but the city can do more to avoid concentrating homes and to ensure that neighbors have a way to raise concerns about how a home is being operated.’

With many quiet residential neighborhoods and an ample stock of relatively affordable, large single-family homes, Ward 4 has become a destination over the years for many providers establishing homes for the developmentally disabled. Nuss, the head of DDS, said her agency is encouraging providers to set up elsewhere and is moving toward smaller homes with just one to three residents that should be less disruptive to neighborhoods.

"The whole point of bringing folks out of institutions was to allow them to experience a neighborhood," Bowser said. "But if you concentrate on blocks or certain neighborhoods, then you kind of institutionalize the block, and that's not the goal for people with disabilities, and it's not the goal for our neighborhoods, either."

‘Group Home’ Special Privilege Adoption (Help & Support) -

Those who are looking for a ‘group home’ for an exclusionary purpose can contact the following agency officials to get a better insight & a suitable group home that best serves their requisite.

Child and Family Services Agency:

Jenna Beebe, 202-727-7040, jenna.beebe@dc.gov.

Group homes licensed by CFSA typically care for teenage foster children who have not been placed in family foster homes. To ensure the privacy and safety of the abused and neglected children in CFSA's care, the agency does not disclose the addresses of the homes it licenses.

Department of Mental Health:

Sheila Kelly-Long, 202-673-3516, sheila.kelly-long@dc.gov.

Group homes licensed by DMH typically house six to eight people. DMH does not disclose the addresses of the homes it licenses because doing so would effectively disclose the residents' conditions and violate their privacy.

Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services:

Linda Harllee Harper, 202-724-4740, linda.harlleeharper@dc.gov.

Group homes licensed or operated by DYRS house typically house six or fewer residents, though some house as many as 12. Information about homes under contract with DYRS is available at 

http://dyrs.dc.gov/DC/DYRS/Youth+Services/Residential+Facilities.

Information about homes operated directly by DYRS which also includes information on the agency's two detention centers is available at 

http://dyrs.dc.gov/DC/DYRS/Youth+Services/DYRS+Facilities

Department on Disability Services:

Karine Mauprivez, 202-730-1693, karine.mauprivez@dc.gov.

Group homes certified by DDS typically serve four to eight people. As the agency overseeing care of the residents, DDS does not disclose addresses of the homes because doing so would effectively disclose the residents' conditions and violate their privacy. The Health Regulation and Licensing Administration, which inspects and licenses the homes, do report the addresses in its inspection reports. The HRLA contact is Sharon Mebane, 202-442-4751, sharon.mebane@dc.gov.

Administrative, Factual & Contact Information:

The factual data, administrative information as well notable quotes & Agency Officials’ contact information have been collected from the following reliable resources.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/13/AR2010061304051.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/13/AR2010061304052.html

https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Group_home

Tips & Tricks To Know Before Selling Your Home

Before Selling Your Home Make Sure It Shows Well

Selling a home is a very crucial decision to make and bears with it multiple integral factors to be considered. Whether you are selling a house, townhouse, condo or apartment, these tips and tricks will help you sell your home faster, at a higher price and will make sure that it shows up well. First impressions of a home go a long way to determining how quickly it will sell.

Here are a few suggestions that will make your home show well.

1. Be sure the approach to your home is clean, tidy and well groomed. Any brass should be polished, paint on the door should be in good condition and the door should be washed clean of fingerprints and paw marks.

2. If your home is a single family one, be sure the grass is cut, leaves raked, plant beds mulched and weeded, etc.

3. If your home is in a multi-family building, be sure the hall and entrance area to your home is clean even if it is not your responsibility.

4. Declutter your home to make it appear spacious and allow the buyers to be able to visualize themselves and their households in there. Be sure your home is tidy and uncluttered including closets, cabinets, garages, and other storage areas. When “stuffed,” no amount of storage “shows” as adequate. When really messy, no room looks charming.

A clean, Tidy & uncluttered home is the key to sell it fast

5. Make necessary repairs that are noticeably needed but do not go the extra mile elevating the expenses. Ensure that door handles and locks fit well and firmly, lubricate joints and tracks to make windows and doors run smoothly. Exterior doors should shut and lock solidly, make sure its well secured. Drains and downspouts should be firmly attached and clear of debris so water flows freely. Attached light fixtures should be firmly attached and all lights and fans should be functional. All switches should turn on whatever they were designed to turn on — light, fan, disposal, etc. Available attributes in Baths should be clean and in perfect working condition.

6. Conventional wisdom dictates your home should be “neutralized.” You can’t really go wrong following this advice. You know the drill — beige or soft gray carpet, beige, gray, or taupe walls, white or off-white woodwork and ceilings. Sometimes a very soft gold or a soft sage green can also “read” as neutral.

7. Do not over-decorate your home. Remember, simplicity makes your home more stylized. If you have a sure sense of decorating and especially if you plan to leave color coordinated window treatments, you might leave more definite colors in place understanding that a potential buyer with no imagination might be put off by them and not think to request a “redecorating allowance” in a contract offer. Still, beautiful decorating which is not neutral undeniably attracts some buyers. Therefore go for minimal ornamentation and choose light color schemes leaving room for unified choice.

8. If your carpet is in poor condition, consider replacing it. If you have concrete floors, it’s a smart idea to add transparent vinyl paint all over to create a fresh new look.

Make Your House Luminous To Create The Curb Appeal

9. Dark homes show badly while luminous homes contain the curb appeal. If your home is being visited after dusk, make sure lamps are lit and lampshades are straight with the seams toward a wall creating a ‘light and shadow’ effect that will surely cast an impression of an aesthetic touch in your home. Make sure there is as much natural light as possible; have curtains, shades and blinds open if you are showcasing your home during daylight.

A clean, tidy, uncluttered and fully functional home is enough to attract most potential buyers. Buyers are looking for a home they can see themselves living in. Follow the above tips and tricks so that you can position your home to sell quickly, at a higher price and most importantly your home will show up well. Good luck!

Investing In Distressed Property

Investing In Distressed Property

Many investments that are made in real estate, most which are expected to allow the price of the property to go up.  However, sometimes the value of a property starts down.  If you have run into a property that is like this, you will want to decide if it is worth investing in.  Distressed property is one of the questions that several ask when investing into real estate.

If a property is distressed, it means that it has not had the care and attention needed by the previous owners.  Most likely, the home is part of a foreclosure, abandoned home, or other problem and may have not been lived in for a specified amount of time.  Any distressed property will need a lot of attention given to it if you decide to invest in the property.

Before looking at this type of property, you will want to make sure that it will be worth your investment.  While a distressed property will usually go down thousands of dollars because of the quality, it may not be cheaper.  It will be expected that you put a specific amount of work and money into the home in order to repair it and get it back up to being part of the market.

If you are able to get an extra loan, have more money, and want to fix up a home, then a distressed property is for you.  However, if you don't want to put in the extra effort, then finding this type of property may loose you money and comfort in your own home.  You will also need to decide whether you will be able to profit off of the investment in the long run according to the neighborhood, market, and your intentions for using the property.

While a distressed property can benefit, it will need to fit your goals and your lifestyle in order to be an effective investment.  As long as you have assessed your financial stability and goals and are able to put in the extra money, time and work, you can take a distressed property and turn it into what you want.  This will give the property the dream of moving from rags to riches.

AN INSIGHT INTO DISTRESSED PROPERTIES

AN INSIGHT INTO DISTRESSED PROPERTIES

              

Definition of Distressed Property -

Distressed properties are a type of real estate that is being offered for sale because of an impending foreclosure or repossession. This usually results from a company's inability to meet its financial obligations. Distressed securities can include common and preferred shares, bank debt, trade claims (goods owed) and corporate bonds. As a result, these financial instruments suffer an extensive and tangible reduction in value.

Why Invest In Distressed Property?

Cardinally, what all distressed properties have in common is a low price tag, much below its market value. Distressed sales often occur at a loss because funds tied up in the asset are needed within a curtailed time span. They can sell for anywhere from 30%, to 45%, even up to 60% off what they are actually worth, which makes them an incredible opportunity for home buyers and real estate investors.. After purchasing the property, most investors or homebuyers opt to undergo momentous renovations and expedient set-offs that are paramount to an accelerated sale of the concerned property.

The Rationale Behind The  Colossal Deflation - 

Distressed sales often occur at a loss because funds tied up in the asset are needed within a curtailed time span. The funds from these assets are most often used to pay for debts, medical expenses or other emergencies. Distressed properties indifferently suffer a reduction in their market price because of pressures operating on the owner, such as threatened foreclosures, divorce, settlement of an estate, or fear of economic changes that might be responsible for the abrupt downturn in value.

Due to their reduction in value, distressed securities often become attractive to investors who are looking for a bargain and are equipped to accept a substantial risk. The logic behind this investment is that the company's situation is not as bad as the market believes it to be and either the company will survive or there will be enough money upon liquidation to cover the original investment.

                                  

Types of Distressed Property -

There are many different kinds of distressed properties, generally depending on what stage of the foreclosure process the property is under. There are distressed properties for sale: 

(i) Offered by homeowners who have recently defaulted on their mortgage and are looking forward to sell their property before they get any further behind, (E.g. bankruptcy) or

(ii) Scheduled for public auction by lenders or local courts as the last stage of the months-long foreclosure process.

  Distressed Property Under Foreclosure – 

All mortgages are loans, and when a homeowner fails to make their required monthly payments toward their mortgage loan, the lender will have no choice but to seek a foreclosure to get back the money they provided for the loan. A foreclosure allows the lender to ultimately pursue a public sale of the homeowner's property. By putting distressed homes up for sale, the lender can use the proceeds to cover the amount lost on the loan.

  Auctioned Distressed Property – 

If the homeowner does not sell their property before the scheduled date of the foreclosure sale, the property will be sold at public auction by the lender or a trustee of the lender. Distressed home auctions are the most common way that most buyers find foreclosure homes for sale. Auctions happen all the time all over the country, and they are certainly one of the most straightforward ways to buy real estate of any kind. You have to be sure to secure your financing beforehand so you can pay the amount of your winning bid, and you have to do as much research as you can into the property you want to buy before the sale to make sure it's a good, valuable investment. Effectually, you'll be issued a Bill of Sale as soon as the auction is over. It's a fantastic way to buy property, and at 30% to 60% off market prices, the discounts are just as deep as you'll find anywhere else.

  REO Homes and Bank Owned Distressed Properties – 

If a foreclosure auction does not produce a buyer, or the winning bid is below a certain 'minimum bid' amount set by the auctioneer, then the property will be awarded to the lender at the close of the auction. The lender, usually a bank or government agency, will then take full control of the property and offer it for sale themselves. These properties are known as ‘Bank-owned homes’ or ‘REO (real estate owned)’ properties. Almost all banks offer repossessed homes for sale, but the dire straits lie on the fact that they usually don't have the time to advertise or market these properties, they instead rely on local agents to exhibit the homes for sale on their behalf. Buying distressed real estate for sale as an REO can offer the same great discounts as you'll find on any other distressed real estate investment. Banks will often undersell distressed properties just to get them off their hands, and prompt fortuitous buyers can get to find some fantastic deals out there.

Pros & Cons of Buying Distressed Property – 

Prospective homebuyers are always looking for a bargain price but, typically, when a property can be snapped up for a low price there’s a reason. Most often, a house with a drastically reduced price will be on the market as a short sale because the owners are hoping to avoid a foreclosure or because the property has already undergone foreclosure.

While the price may be enticing, it’s important to understand what you are buying. First and foremost, a foreclosure or a short sale will nearly always be sold “as-is,” meaning that the owners, whether they are a bank or the residents, won’t be fixing anything before the sale.

                    

Advantages of Buying a Distressed Property - 

The main reason to buy a distressed property is the price. In most cases, a foreclosure or short sale will be priced below market value because the sellers are in a hurry to complete a sale and because they don’t want to spend the money to repair a property in order to bring a higher price.

If you are eager to become a homeowner or want to invest in real estate, a foreclosure can be a good place to start, provided you know what you are doing. A REALTOR® experienced in distressed properties can guide you to make sure you purchase a home that will eventually increase in value.

When mortgage rates are low, you can take advantage of inexpensive financing to buy a bargain and then sell it later for a profit.

Disadvantages of Buying a Distressed Property - 

The main risk in purchasing a foreclosure is the reason the property is set at a low price: the condition.

If you are purchasing a house that is in bad shape, you will need to set aside funds to hire contractors or to pay for materials to improve it. Some foreclosures are in OK shape, but others lack appliances, have damaged walls, and may need extensive electrical or plumbing repairs. You may or may not be able to have an informational home inspection on a distressed property, but even if you do, it will be up to you to finance any repairs.

You should also be aware that not all distressed properties can meet the requirements of a lender, given the property’s condition. You will need an appraisal, and for many loan products the lender will need to assess whether the property can be lived in and has value.    

    
Tips for Buying Distressed Property - 

Acknowledged skill and experience in flipping homes and acquaintance with a team of trustworthy adroit contractors are indispensable criterions if one intends to invest over a distressed property.  A distressed property in a perplexed standing may still fetch a good deal if expiated and refurnished accordingly yet thoughtfully enough so as to refrain from overdo or over-expend. 

Many investors purchase distressed homes with cash, so it’s best to be prepared for potential competition from cash buyers. If you don’t have the cash yourself, you can work with a lender to secure a strong loan prequalification. To be an even stronger bidder, you may want to increase the size of your down payment or your earnest money deposit.

In some cases, a distressed property will require complex paperwork before you can take possession of the property, so be prepared to be patient.

Most importantly, educate yourself and work with expert professionals who can recognize the value in different properties so that you don’t find yourself owning a distressed property that requires too much expense and work or sits in a location that negatively affects its long-term value.

Finding Distressed Property & Marketing – 

Distressed properties can be searched online by browsing websites such as -
http://www.bankforeclosuressale.com/distressed-properties.php 
http://www.buydistressed.com/welcome.html 
http://www.realtor.com/foreclosure 
http://langrealty.com/ 
http://www.loopnet.com/Distressed-Commercial-Real-Estate/ 
http://www.realtytrac.com/ 
Asymmetrically, it is well-acclaimed to fish for distressed properties yourself by the so-called ‘’driving for dollars’’ maxim. Set a target market area, exit strategy and multiple other factors such as: tax assessed value, house age, zip codes, crime rates etc (adds to individual priorities) and simply drive out to keep on the lookout for distressed properties. Additionally, taking pictures of any distressed and or vacant properties you may find and taking notes of the corresponding property, the environs and its surrounding features (both positive and negative), can be extremely helpful. When driving for dollars there are several “red flags” that should be paid attention to. For e.g. overgrown tall grasses, boarded up or broken windows, mailboxes filled to the brim, code enforcement taped to the door, piled up newspapers, deferred maintenance etc.

The next step is to research out the noted distressed properties on your counties local Central Appraisal District (CAD). During the research phase you will want to filter out properties that do not fit your criteria. For instance, if you are looking for high equity properties you need to look for deed dates 15+ years back. Once you have selected all the properties that fit your criteria, it’s time to create a final list. Conveniently, this list can be used during marketing of the jotted-down distressed homes. However, if you are unsure how to find your local CAD try google searching “[your county name]central appraisal district” or “[your county name]tax  assessor.” Alternatively, you can research properties in the field with your smart phone or other wireless device on the CAD website.

When researching some investors like to delineate between absentee owners (land lords or inherited properties) and owner occupied homes (personal residence). It is very simple to check which category a property falls under when researching on the CAD. If the owner address and property address match, it is a owner occupied home. If the owner address and property address are a mismatch, it is an absentee owner. Here’s an example of how it appears on the CAD :-

Once the finalized distressed property list is ready, it’s simply a matter of time for you to get started with appurtenant marketing strategies that compliment concurrent objectives and prejudices of potential buyers on the nook. Using door hangers with short notes like “We buy houses for fast cash“, to tape on the front door and garage of vacant properties is a long-adopted idea whereas talking to neighbors when you are unable to track down the owner of the home can also be beneficial as they don’t want a ugly vacant property sitting next door dragging their property value down with it.

Above all, in today’s world there’s no better marketing apparatus than email marketing. Providing buyers with distressed property listings along with photographs and peripheral amenities attached you are good to go to start a new face-off in the real estate industry. Evernote is a great tool to work with remarkably, for vacant properties. Evernote automatically geocodes the location of where you take the pictures and can later research the deeds, mortgages, taxes, etc directly from your cell phone. Geo-coding is also provides commendable aid during business operations, a very powerful feature, especially with targeted lists such as vacant properties. When it comes to determining the ARV of a given subject property, it is absolute using comps off the MLS.

To clinch a definitive auspicious outcome, it is always a better idea to buy a distressed property and allow it to undergo a climatic overhaul to help elevate its merit, for the consideration that as a matter of course, distressed properties predominantly deficit even the most imperative set-offs, which results in a slower and cheaper deal. Therefore, even if you plan to sell a distressed property as an intermediator, you should be well-cognizant about the overall temperaments and prospects of the respective property or it may turn into a prodigal quietus in the distressed property endeavor.

                           

Conclusion: 

Direct investment in a distressed property offers the biggest potential returns. Buy at the right price in the right market and you can earn a hefty 8% to 12% return conjoined with appreciation.

The top-notch build quality and a straightforward buying process, are other factors that influence the decision to buy distressed property in the USA. Long-term capital growth in key locations, give property investors great reassurance in a meticulous and worthwhile investment. Investing over distressed property can be a great endowment in the long run provided the location and revamp expenses are contemplate with forethought before embarking into the venture. 

Evaluating the anticipated pros and cons that are prerequisite, with experienced professional real estate instincts, investment in the distressed property arena can be a try worth a shot!