Living Smart: Bathroom Remodeling

Bathroom remodeling continues to be one of the most popular home improvement projects.  If you’re moving beyond the imagining stage and are ready to get serious about renovating a bathroom, here are trends and tips to keep in mind.

What you can do with a bathroom depends on its size and who’s using it. Hall bathrooms are commonly used by kids and guests, and an update may be focused more on making the most of a high-traffic, cramped room. Ideas include replacing a mirror with a medicine chest faced with a mirror, or replacing a pedestal sink with a vanity that has cabinet space. A master bathroom, however, is usually larger and more private. It’s a likely candidate for a spa makeover. Some ideas from highly rated remodelers:

—Replace the tub with a luxury shower featuring multiple showerheads and handheld sprayers, or a large rain-style shower head.

—Create a fresh, clean look with a frameless glass shower door.

—Upgrade with granite or solid-surface materials.

—Focus less on the latest design trend or fad, and more on elements, fixtures and colors that will stand the test of time.

—Incorporate universal design — which is intended to ensure that a project is useful for people of all ages, abilities and sizes. Among the ideas: Replace lower toilets or sinks with taller options that require less stooping or bending.

Plan to do your homework before starting the project. Be realistic about your budget. The average cost of bath remodeling in 2013 was $18,538, down slightly from 2012, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

Before you start talking to contractors:

—Check websites and magazines for designs and ideas. Research materials and products at showrooms and retail stores. This will help contractors more accurately estimate the time and cost for your project.

—Talk to neighbors, friends and family about their projects. Check contractors’ reviews on a trusted online review site.

—Get multiple bids and ask for and check references. Questions to ask include: Did the contractor meet expectations? Were there delays or miscommunications? How did the contractor handle requested changes?

—Get at least three written estimates that clearly define the project and what materials will be used.

—Make sure you can reach a contractor when you need to.

—Be sure the contractor you hire is appropriately licensed, insured and bonded. Bathroom remodeling work often requires electrical and plumbing work — two of the most often regulated trades.

Michael Jordan to Auction off Chicago Compound

http://www.luxuryportfolio.com/property/highland_park/home_of_basketball_legend_michael_jordan.cfm

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TIPS FOR A GREAT LOOKING HOME THIS FALL!

It’s hard to believe that fall is already upon us. Summer may be over, but now is not the time to neglect a home’s exterior, especially if it’s going to soon be listed for-sale this season. Here are a few tips to help you embrace the fall season and keep your property looking its best:

·     The most obvious tip: rake up leaves on a frequent basis;

·     Inspect your gutters regularly and remove any leaves that get trapped;

·     Carry on weeding garden beds and walkways;

·     Remove all annual flowers that are no longer blooming and plants that are past their “best before” date.  Dead vegetation gives the impression of a home not cared for;

·     Readjust the timers on outdoor lighting displays since it now gets dark earlier;

·     Give your gardens some liveliness by planting fall flowers such as chrysanthemums. Choose a color that compliments the exterior of your home;

·     Redesign your flowers pots – it’s time for a fall theme;

·     Add some vignettes. Sometimes, it’s the little things that produce the most attention.  My personal favorite for generating anticipation in potential buyers is to create a simple fall vignette on the porch. Pumpkins add a punch of color and provide a warm, welcoming look when blended with something interesting like a couple of antique lanterns, for example.  Be careful not to add too many items to the vignette or it will appear too cluttered.

If there’s a swing or rocking chair on the porch, add cushions with a generous amount of orange in them to tie everything together.  If you pay this much attention to the exterior of your home, buyers will be anxious to see what awaits them behind the front door

Have I missed anything?  Feel free to add your fall tips to the list!

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GREAT SPACES

Celine Dion sold more than 200 million albums worldwide.  She is so amazing  that she built herself her very own private resort, complete with a water park! Who in the world has their own water park!? Celine Dion does, and that $72.5 million compound is now up for grabs.

Dion’s Jupiter Island, Fla., estate sits on nearly six acres and has more than 400 feet of waterfront. Celine designed the compound herself! She purchased the estate’s two homes for $12.5 million and $7 million each back in 2004 and 2008, respectively. Increasing home values, the home’s three pools and water park, as well as the prime oceanfront make up for the price tag. The water park itself includes slides and a lazy river at the bottom, along with a foot bridge for the kids.

Inside, the home continues to boast a Bahamian-style resort feel, with five bedrooms fit for any diva. The master bedroom has a walk-in closet with an automated rack for clothing and shoes. A wrap-around terrace with a hot tub is attached. Celine’s guests have an entirely separate guesthouse to spread out among eight additional bedrooms.

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