Phangarde Realty Blog

2008 is almost here in less than two weeks, and for many the new year means, new resolutions.  What better way to start off the new year by exploring new remodeling jobs around your home that will pay dividends down the road.  For many of us, 2007 has been a very long year with the housing market affecting our economy, and like many we want a sense of normalcy in our lives.

I strongly feel that 2008 should be the year that we take on those projects that we have held off on, and start getting our house to feel like a home.  Here are a few tips that I want to share with you:

Take a cue from high-end homes.

Luxury homes showcase the latest in floor plans, appliances and décor. Check out your local tour of homes or visit some open houses in new construction neighborhoods. Living spaces like mudrooms and home offices are all the rage; formal living rooms are not.

Stick with your style. Many experts agree that your remodeling projects should reflect the style of your home. For example, if you live in an ultra-contemporary condo, a quaint country kitchen might seem out of place and turn off potential buyers when you’re ready to sell.

Go green. Eco-friendly materials like bamboo flooring are gaining in popularity.  So are Energy Star® appliances, windows, and lighting products, which increase energy efficiency. Many hardware stores have a wide variety of energy-saving products that can save you money.

Go outside. Outdoor living spaces are the latest trend in adding a room without adding four walls. At the high end of the market, outdoor living rooms, kitchens and fireplaces are becoming standard.

Technically speaking . . . As our lives become more dependent on technology, homes will become “smarter”, allowing homeowners to remotely arm a home security system, turn appliances on and off, and control thermostats.

Kitchen updates. The kitchen is the heart of the home for many families and in addition to food preparation it’s also a place to pay bills and do homework. Today’s kitchens tend to be open and often include cabinets for TVs, computers and small appliances.

There are so many choices when it comes to kitchen cabinets, fixtures, flooring and appliances; where do you start?  My thoughts have always been make your house feel like your home, not just a place to stay, but a foundation for you and your family.  Find ways to make your home unique, but still offering the ability to be customized by others, should you decide to move up in homes.

Artisan color trends. The colors of 2007/2008 turn over a new leaf encompassing the natural, the ethereal, the homespun and the restful. These vivid elements inspire sophistication, regality, and simplicity.

As you can see, there are many ideas that you can partake in, the key is finding which one you want to start on and go for it.  Remember, your new years resolution is to be rewarding and fun, not an utlimatum.  Get your entire family involved and share in the transformation.  When the time comes for you to move to that next home, sit back and enjoy the benefits of you and your families support on that remodeling project.

We at Phangarde Realty would like to wish everyone a wonderful holiday and a superb New Years.  Happy 2008 here we come.