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

Monday, January 3, 2011

House of the Week - 630 E. Carmen

Located in the Historic Wilson Tract - 630 E. Carmen
Approximately 5,000 Square Feet - $599,000

This beautiful one of a kind well maintained Tower District treasure boasts such wonderful amenities as hardwood flooring, incredible chandeliers, large formal dining room, butler station, study, spacious kitchen, and downstairs maid's quarters. 


The Joe Sciarrone Group is pleased to share
this gorgeous historic home
in the heart of Fresno's Tower District...


 Who wouldn't love the incredible storage in the butlers pantry?

 

Large formal dining room features one of several  incredible
crystal chandeliers found inside this beautiful home.



One of the five beautiful bedrooms.

The formal living room features
 an original fireplace with extensive molding details.


The Master Suite has private dressing and seating rooms.


This estate size yard includes a pool with expansive decking for entertaining...


Take a virtual of 630 E. Carmen Avenue by  Clicking Here
or call

The Joe Sciarrone Group
436-4038
for a private showing