HOUSING UPDATE
If you’re in the market to buy a home, there’s some exciting news for you Many people assume that newly built homes are more expensive than existing ones (houses that have already been lived in), but that’s not always the case In fact, exploring newly built homes can sometimes lead to more cost-effective options, especially today Hard to believe, right? But the data doesn’t lie.
Here are two key reasons working with your agent to look into new home construction could help you find a more budget-friendly option.
The median sales price for newly built homes is lower than the median sales price for existing homes today. This might seem surprising, but it’s true according to the latest data from the Census and the National Association of Realtors (NAR):
TheMedianPriceforNewHomesisComingDown Median Sales Price of Single-Family Homes
Buying a home is a big decision, and it’s essential to consider all your options. By looking into newly built homes, you might find a perfect fit for your needs and your budget.
Why is that? Builders are focused on building what they can sell. And right now, there’s a very real need for smaller and more affordable homes – so that’s what they’ve been bringing to the market. At the same time, there are also more newly built homes already on the market than there have been over the past few years, so builders are motivated to make sure they’re selling what they’ve got available before adding more.
Reason2:AttractiveIncentivesfromHomeBuilders
Another big reason to consider a newly built home is the range of incentives that many home builders are offering. Again, since builders aim to sell their current inventory, some provide special deals to sweeten the pot for homebuyers HousingWire explains today’s trend:
“Overall, the usage of sales incentives was up to 61% in June, compared to 59% in May ”
One of the most appealing incentives right now is how builders are able to offer competitive mortgage rates. They may also provide other incentives, such as covering closing costs, or offering free upgrades.
WhyThisMatterstoYou
Considering a newly built home could open up opportunities you hadn’t thought of before. With competitive pricing and attractive incentives, you might just find that a brand-new home is the most appealing option for you.
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Kitchen Design Styles That Are
No Longer
Trendy
According to Designers
Think of kitchen design styles like fashion Some trends come and go (jean silhouettes, the height of socks), while other elements (say, a white button-down shirt) will be timeless generation after generation. The biggest difference between home design and your wardrobe? Renovating a kitchen once you’re tired of a style isn’t as easy or affordable as trying a new outfit So it’s best to get ahead of the trends
1. Tuscan-Inspired Kitchens
“Tuscan-inspired kitchens, with their dark wood cabinets and rich, earthy tones, feel like overly ornate dungeons at this point,” interior designer Amy Peltier says. Now, people tend to crave cleaner lines and a more minimalist approach, one that brings a sense of calm and openness to the kitchen. It's all about creating a serene space that feels welcoming, according to Peltier.
2. Too Many Can Lights
Although Katie Wolf of Wolf Interiors tries to avoid can lighting whenever possible, they’re often necessary in a kitchen just don’t go overboard “Too many can lights in the kitchen can make for a Swisscheese ceiling,” interior designer Katie Tells us To prevent a holey ceiling, Wolf recommends opting for four-inch cans (instead of six-inch) and placing them only where necessary When coupled with undercabinet lighting and pendants over an island, you might be surprised how few cans are needed
3. Farmhouse Style
“Farmhouse-style kitchens had their moment, but it’s time to move on to fresh pastures,” Peltier says. “While the rustic charm and cozy elements were appealing, it can sometimes feel a bit too thematic and heavy-handed ” These days, Peltier sees clients veering towards a blend of modern and timeless elements known as transitional kitchens that offer more flexibility and a more personalized touch Try mixing natural textures with sleek finishes for a space that feels both inviting and contemporary
4. Divided Sinks
“There is nothing more frustrating than a sink that doesn’t fit your pot,” says Wolf. Instead of a divided sink, opt for one large rectangular sink. That allows for dishes of all sizes to be hidden until they can be handwashed or loaded in the dishwasher, and can be used to bathe a small child or dog too
5. Granite Countertops
Granite countertops used to be the hallmark of luxury, but that’s not the case anymore. Peltier notes that granite is being replaced by materials like quartz, concrete, soapstone, and butcher block, which offer more variety in terms of color and texture
6. Over-the-Range Microwaves
The over-the-range microwave trend is definitely on the decline, says Peltier While it used to be a popular space-saving solution, it’s not the most practical or stylish choice anymore People are now installing microwave drawers or built-in units that integrate seamlessly into the kitchen design.
MEDITERRANEAN PATIO IDEAS
The idea of summer garden hosting in a beautifully curated space of warm tones, drought-tolerant plants and rustic furnishings is idyllic. When it comes to creating a Mediterranean garden, it's all about keeping the climate in that part of the world in mind. The good news is, even if you don't live in a Mediterranean climate, you can get the feel through specific planting and features. Choosing to incorporate this in your patio area means you can access the feeling of being on vacation whenever you step out into your yard
1. START WITH WARM TONE POTS
'Classic terracotta pots, earthy colored ceramic pots, rustic stone pots or natural-feeling reclaimed wood planters are the best for a Mediterranean-feel,' says Marek Bowers, a drought-tolerant gardener and landscape designer at Bolder Green. Not only do these warm tones leave your patio and planting feeling sunnier, but terracotta planters are are also great for Mediterranean plants. Their porous nature means they're breathable and don't leave roots sitting in waterlogged soil, also making terracotta indoor planters a great option for topical indoor plants. You can also extend this design choice to pavers and garden paths leading to and from your patio. 'Natural stone pavers like limestone or travertine are a classic Mediterranean look, while terracotta tiles add warmth,' says Marek.
2. CHOOSE DROUGHT-TOLERANT PLANTING
Opting for drought-tolerant planting that can grow well in your US hardiness zone is a great way to get the Mediterranean look and futureproof for your yard for the rise in summer heatwaves ‘Olive and fig trees are iconic Mediterranean staples, offering shade, character and delicious harvests,' says Evan Torchio, tree expert and CEO of Tree Mender. 'Consider their size and your patio space when choosing. If you have limited room, you might opt for smaller varieties or other low-maintenance trees for pots,' he advises. You could also choose from a range of drought- tolerant plants for pots and beds, to bring different shape and color to your patio.
3. ADD ABUNDANTLY FLOWERING VINES
When you think of Greek islands, bright showy blooms might come to mind Having flowering vines and trailing plants in your patio area, perhaps as part of a pergola, instantly creates an impressive and immersive environment to spend time in. Bougainvillea's pop of color is unmistakable and can cascade beautifully when in full bloom,' says Marek
'This statement vine flowers profusely for many months at a time and having it entwined on a pergola or climbing up a trellis on your patio can add a romantic touch. If you want to ensure your Mediterranean-inspired patio has interest all year long, it can also be wise to incorporate some of the best evergreen climbers that will provide this space with some greenery throughout the year. As always, it's best to pick plants that will thrive in your local climate, so always do some research before attempting to grow them
4. INCORPORATE GRAVEL INTO YOUR LANDSCAPING
Designing your perfect patio means thinking about every last detail, including how to fill gaps in patio borders or between pavers To get the Mediterranean feel, experts say to use gravel. Landscaper and founder of Yardwork, Michael Clarke, notes that pea gravel can be a great choice for patios of this style. It's a popular choice for drought-tolerant landscaping, not only for aesthetic reasons but also because it allows rain to run through and retains water. For this reason, it's great to use in patio borders if you want to create a mini gravel garden. 'For pathways and seating areas, I'm a huge fan of decomposed granite,' says Marek. This is a permeable rock that can be used for a range of backyard landscaping and is an inexpensive option.
5. USE RUSTIC METAL FURNITURE
Of course, no outdoor living room is complete without the right outdoor seating. For a Mediterranean touch, designers say to choose classic metal furniture. Rustic and reclaimed, aged metal works well for a patio of this style,' says Michael Metals in darker colors, like black and brown, can work nicely in contrast to orange and yellow tones of the pots, pavers and gravel you may have chosen. If bright color is more of your thing, you can also get an island feel with vibrant furniture. 'For furniture try and add an accent table made of mosaic tiles It will really add a nice pop to your patio scene,' says Laura.
BENJAMIN MOORE
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