Monday, August 29, 2011

Set your home apart from the rest.
Upgrade your kitchen with a new back splash...



Kitchen back splashes are a great way to add a touch of color and/or texture with a great back splash.
New materials in the tile industry have made your choices endless, and with a small space to work with, they don't break the bank on the cost.


This silvery sage is a great compliment to the neutral counter top.
If you are worried about color, choose a shape that is unique and yet still a neutral white.


This stone color goes with just about anything and is a great neutral choice
 if you are planning to sell your home.


Granite has been a consistent choice for many years and has proven to be durable and liked by many.


Framing a large tile or design above the range adds a nice custom touch to any kitchen.


If you like fresh and clean, the above tile might be for you!

All images above are from Pinterest, a great way to discover what your style is. 
Visit Pinterest.com for more information.

See more great kitchen back splash ideas from Houzz.com by clicking below:

Enjoy!

The Joe Sciarrone Group

Monday, August 22, 2011

Home Office Inspiration

Inspiring Home Office Spaces....

Modern technology allows us all the opportunity to "work remotely" when needed, which works out great when you have sick kids, want to work from your vacation home, or simply operate from a home office. 

We have found some great and inspiring photos to share with you...


Built in cabinetry allows for function and organization.  We love the colors, they are clean simple.


Not all office spaces require a dedicated room.  A desk like the one above will fit in a kitchen nook, great room, den or even a master bedroom.


A built in wall on one side of the room and a Murphy Bed on the other side is a great compromise when you need a guest room and an office.


Why not have a little fun?


Traditional wood will never go out of style. 


Ahhh!  This is our idea of the PERFECT office space!

**All of the above photos were found via Pinterest, a great spot to search for and share ideas!

What about you?  Do you have a home office?  What would you change about it?

The Joe Sciarrone Group
London Properties

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Just Listed in Old Fig Garden

Introducing...

639 Holland
An Old Fig Garden Estate





A Stunning Old Fig Beauty






Fully Renovated
 3,250 Square Feet
4 Bedroom / 4 Bath






600 Square Foot Guest Cottage
With Full Kitchen and Washer & Dryer Hook-Up






Bright & Open Floor Plan





Newly Remodeled Kitchen With
Viking Appliances, Porcelain Farm Sink & Walk-In Pantry





Beautiful & Spacious Bedrooms








 

 



Family Room
Ready For Entertaining







And a Professionally Landscaped Yard,
All On An Estate Size
Corner Lot...


Want To See More?

Stop By Tomorrow
For A Personal Tour

Broker's Open House
Wednesday, April 6th
12:00 to 2:00

639 Holland
Old Fig Garden
Fresno, CA

$799,000



The Joe Sciarrone Group
The strength of teamwork...The reputation for results.

London Properties


Presented By:
Lena Fisher
Lic. 01892518
287-0021


Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Take a Tour on River Bottom...


We just listed the most incredible 
MOVE-IN READY
house in Fresno!




 5475 W. River Bottom Avenue
Near Milburn / Alluvial

$279,900

2,008 Square Feet
3 Bdrm / 2 Ba + Office
3 Car Garage

Beautiful Leo Wilson Home Across From the Bluffs



With original owners, this home has been well cared for and has many incredible features...


 Bright & Airy Kitchen with Breakfast Bar



Large Kitchen Nook has Crown Molding,
Tile Flooring, and Space for a Large Table


Master Suite has Gorgeous Hardwood Floors,
a Jetted Tub, and a Walk-In Closet




Additional 2 Bedrooms are Spacious
 + the Office Could be a 4th Bedroom!


Baths Have Upgraded Fixtures



Want to see more?

Come By Our Open House

Saturday & Sunday
March 26th & 27th
1:00 to 4:00

OR

Call Today for a Private Showing

436-4038

The Joe Sciarrone Group
"Now is the Time"

Monday, February 14, 2011

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

New California Law Requires Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Here is information you will want to know…

California Law on Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements

By Christine Bryant, eHow Contributor
updated: June 28, 2010
1.   The state of California requires carbon monoxide detectors in all homes.
fire-place image by Pavol Kmeto from Fotolia.com
The state of California requires carbon monoxide detectors in all homes.
In May 2010, the state of California enacted a law requiring home owners to install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. According to the California Air Resources Board, 30 to 40 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning. The senate bill, also known as the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act, states that those deaths were avoidable. According to the bill, the California law will help prevent further deaths and increase awareness.

Timeline

2.     Although the bill was signed into law in 2010, California residents must have carbon monoxide detectors in their homes as of July 1, 2011. This timeline applies only to single-family homes that have appliances that burn fossil fuels or homes that have attached garages or fireplaces. For all other types of housing, such as apartments and hotels, detectors should be in place as of January 1, 2013. Types of fossil fuels include wood, gas and oil.

Detector

3.     According to the senate bill, the detector must sound an audible warning once carbon monoxide is detected. It also must be powered by a battery, or if it is plugged in, have a battery for a backup. The detector also must be certified by national testing labs, such as the Underwriters Laboratories. The packaging on the carbon monoxide detector will state this. If the CO detector is also a smoke detector, it must still meet the above standards and must sound an alarm that is different than the smoke alarm. Carbon monoxide detectors typically can be purchased for about $20 and up.

Exemptions

4.     Although the law targets units that are occupied by humans, the law exempts state and local government property, as well as property owned by the University of California Regents. The law requires local jurisdictions to comply; however, they may amend their current ordinances to fall more in line with the law.

Fines

5.     California law states that anyone who does not comply with the law may face a $200 fine. However, residents will receive a notice of 30 days to correct any violations before they will be fined.

Friday, February 4, 2011

Own a Rental Property...The IRS Needs to Know

Do you own a rental property?

NEW tax laws for 2011 ----

If you are the owner of even a single unit of rental property, starting this year you must start tracking all vendors doing at least $600 worth of work for you.  Federal law now requires that you send them an IRS 1099 form.

For more information, visit the IRS website or call your accountant. 



____________________________________________________________________________


House of the Week


1755 N. Armstrong

Country living at its best -- $489,000

Wonderful floor plan in this 2600sf Custom Ranch style home. Beautifully landscaped 1.5 acre lot with house and pool. Adjoining 2 parcels totaling 5.95 add'l acres are pasture land with barn and plenty of room for another house or out buildings. Home has been well maintained by its original owner with many upgrades throughout the years. All 3 parcels to be sold together at this price.


Do you have real estate questions or comments?

The Joe Sciarrone Group is available...


The Joe Sciarrone Group
436-4038

List with The Joe Sciarrone Group for Proven, Award Winning Results.

Proven, Award

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Freshen Up Your Bathroom

Does Your Bathroom Need Help?
Don't get overwhelmed...

Here are some simple ideas and tips to get you started.




The bathroom above is considered a mid-line remodel because they replaced tile, cabinetry, plumbing, etc.  Updated bathrooms are a good investment for the resale of your home and will put you ahead of your competition when on the market. 




One of the most important features in EVERY bathroom
is the lighting. 

 Recessed ceiling lighting as well as adding a fixture (or two) will brighten and update one of the spaces in your house that is as small as a closet and almost important as your kitchen.



If you are working in a tight area,
consider hanging a double curved shower rod. 

 It will give you a chance to add a decorative element
with a shower curtain and make your bathroom appear LARGER at the same time. 


MORE TIPS...

  • Visit showrooms and specialty centers to get ideas.  Creative Tile in Fresno has a great showroom if you are considering replacing any tile.
  • Magazines are also a great source of ideas.
  • Cabinetry designers can help with your layout if you are considering making floor plan changes.
  • Always consider including:  a second sink, additional storage, good lighting, new faucets, and a flooring surface that isn't slick when wet.

MINOR FIXES WITH HUGE IMPACT...

If you are not in the market for a complete remodel,
here are some great tips to spruce up your bathroom on a budget.

  • Caulk the areas around your sink and tub.
  • Replace your faucets.
  • Replace your doors & trim.
  • Re-grout your tile. 
  • Change your toilet seat.
  • Replace your shower door.
  • Purchase a solid surface counter top.  Remnants are much less expensive and great use for bathrooms.
  • Paint
  • Install new lights.
  • Hang new {matching} towels.
  • Clean off the clutter on your counters.

Considering selling your home or buying a new one? 

Do you have a question for The Joe Sciarrone Group?
We are here and glad to help...

Give us a call:  436-4038
Follow us on Facebook:  facebook.com/joesciarronegroup

The Joe Sciarrone Group
"Now is the Time"

Friday, January 21, 2011

Top 10 Kitchen Trends

Considering a Kitchen Update?

Spring is around the corner and that means projects...

If you are considering updating your kitchen,
here are the top 10 trends
to consider along with what to expect to spend.



Top 10 Trends

1.  Kitchens are the new family rooms:  Everyone wants to gather in the kitchen, cabinetry is looking more like furniture and people are integrating additional seating options in island space and banquettes.

2.  White Cabinetry:  White cabinetry is considered the universal choice.  It can be used in a variety of styles including traditional through contemporary design.  Add a punch of color in your wall color, and/or accessories and you have a beautiful and pleasing kitchen.

3.  Stainless Steel AppliancesThe majority of our clients prefer stainless steel appliances when shopping for a new home.  Black or white appliances date a kitchen's look.  Stainless also matches any color of cabinetry, counter tops and flooring.  It is an easy pick.

4.  Work ZonesIt is important when remodeling a kitchen to consider your needs and habits.  If you love to bake, consider making a baking station, if you love coffee, consider a coffee station, if you love wine, consider a wine tasting nook.

5.  Walk-In Pantries:  Make it simple...keep all utensils and dishes in cabinetry and food, paper products and bulk items in a pantry.  Use neatly labeled storage containers to organize the shelves.

6.  Save and SplurgeYou DON"T want to overspend on your project no matter how big or small.  The goal is to have a beautiful and functional kitchen with the best price tag.  Make a budget and stick to it.  Save on the items that are not a priority, and splurge on ONE item you must have!

7.  Technology:  If the kitchen is the hub of your home, consider a flat screen TV, or wireless computer capabilities.  Computers come in handy for kids homework, following online cooking recipes, etc.

8.  Eco-Friendly Products:  There are many lines of cabinetry, flooring, faucets, and appliances that follow the Eco-friendly trend.  They are better for the inside air, use less energy, and are environmentally friendly. 

9.  Integrated Appliances:  Cabinet panels are available for your refrigerators, dishwashers, trash compactors, etc.  They provide a seamless flow in your kitchen.  You can also hide your microwave under your counters in a convenient microwave drawer. 

10.  Layered Kitchen Lighting:  Although it is listed at number 10, this is one if the most important updates you can do in a kitchen.  Add layers of lights for a bright and functional kitchen.  Recessed lighting in the ceiling, decorative chandeliers for style, and under or over cabinet lighting for evening ambiance.  Lighting glass front cabinetry is always beautiful also.

Read more about these trends Here...

What is the cost?

The average price for a minor kitchen remodel is $20,000 or less.  This usually includes new counter tops and flooring, along with paint and light fixtures.  Costs vary depending on your kitchen size and shape.



On average, the cost for a major kitchen remodel is $55,000.  Again, the cost varies depending on the size and shape of your kitchen and your design preferences. 

This generally includes the items mentioned above, plus new cabinetry, appliances, possible wall removal / additions, electrical and plumbing renovations, and sometimes doors and/or windows.

 Photo From:

Is the cost worth it?

According to the 2007 Cost vs. Value Report (a combined effort by Remodeling magazine and REALTOR® Magazine the average return on your investment (what you would expect to re-coop if you sold your house) is:

Minor Kitchen Remodel = 83% 
The article notes that the return on investment is significantly higher for a minor kitchen remodel on the west coast (103.5%).
Major Kitchen Remodel = 78.1%



Don't Forget...

Simple details make a HUGE difference.  



Hardware Photo From:  Restoration Hardware
Don't have the money for a kitchen renovation, but you want to do something?  Inexpensive details such as new cabinetry hardware, lighting fixtures, and a fresh wall color will add beauty to your kitchen.  If you are considering selling your home, call us at The Joe Sciarrone Group, we will gladly come by and give you some tips to get buyers through your door!

THIS WEEK'S OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULE
Come by and see us this Sunday
as we showcase these incredible homes
from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

3052 N. Van Ness
(On Van Ness between Shields & Clinton)
Wonderful Tudor. This home was featured in the Fresno Republican Sunday 10/1931 built by A.R. Eckland. Features beautiful hardwood floors, all windows are dual pane, 2 fireplaces (1 in master), original stove, hot water dispenser, dishwasher, nice sized dining room, more to offer! Don't miss seeing this incredible piece of Fresno history.



9935 Madison Ridge
(Near Fort Washington and Champlain)
Located in the prestigious Chelsea Knolls, this beautiful home sits on a large lot with lots of room to live. As you enter into the foyer, you are greeted by a gorgeous view of the backyard and pool. This home offers a spacious formal dining area, family room, kitchen and a game room with bar. Perfect for entertaining! Upstairs the master suite features two large walk-in closets, a large bathroom with jetted tub and a private balcony. This five bedroom home also includes two secluded bedrooms, upstairs and downstairs, for the privacy of your guests!
9965 Madison Ridge
(Near Fort Washington & Champlain)
Custom home in Chelsea Knolls w/4 car garage plus lots of storage. Spectacular foyer with spiral stairs & custom wrought iron railing. Formal LR, formal DR, lovely unique ceilings, huge family room has soaring ceiling & French doors. Granite island in the big gourmet kitchen. Master suite features a frplc, soaking tub, spacious dressing area & private balcony. Back staircase from the kitchen area leads to 2 isolated bedrooms & a bath. Surround system in both indoor and outdoor living areas & plantation shutter window coverings recently installed. Lots & lots Of extras, including great closet space.

Coming Next Week...
Bathroom updates and spring cleaning tips.




Have a great weekend and don't forget to send us your questions. We Are Here To Help!

The Joe Sciarrone Group
"Now's The Time"

436- 4038
joesciarronegroup.com