Acquire Volume 14 Issue 4 - June 2014

Volume 14 • Issue 4

HomeShowExpo2014

Center Spread Map

City of Norwalk

Artistic Builder

Delivering on High Standards with Creation of Beautifully Functional Homes Read More on Page 22

Buying a home in the next year?

}

Attend the

Ultimate First Time Homebuyers Workshop for FREE (regularly $20/person)

Visit www.ultimatehomebuyingworkshop.com to register!

Use the code “magazine” when registering.

d

American Heritage Homes d Making History One Home At A Time

When you step into a custom home built by American Heritage Homes you immediately experience the difference that sets us apart from other home builders in the Des Moines Area - a commitment to quality, custom home construction that you can see and feel. We believe that value is synonymous with luxury, and when it comes to building quality homes it’s what you can’t see that matters. We specialize in building custom homes using the latest in high performance building technologies and best practices. Each home we build is as unique as the family who lives in it, but our commitment to building the best homes in Central Iowa is always the same.

Patrick Fox: 515-778-3699 | Rick Ross: 515-971-1385 | www.ahhomesiowa.com

Visit our HomeShowExpo2014 house located at 3031 Prairie Rose Drive in Norwalk.

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Noticeably Norwalk.

TM

The City of Norwalk is proud to be the Community Sponsor of Home Show Expo 2014 presented by Echo Valley.

While taking note of the craftsmanship and details that set these homes apart, we also invite you to pause and enjoy your surroundings…the scenic views, the rural feel, the tranquil pace of our community. While enjoying that stunning view of downtown Des Moines, you might also remember that you are literally minutes away from the airport, the downtown Des Moines business district, as well as the business and shopping districts of West Des Moines. Norwalk is ideally situated to help you get anywhere you need to be in Central Iowa.

But more than convenience, we also offer you superior quality of life. Norwalk is proud of its excellent school system and its support of locally owned businesses. Our community offers fine dining, local sporting events, miles of recreational trails, lakefronts and public parks. Norwalk was recently named one of the top ten best places to live in Iowa.

The City of Norwalk is thrilled to welcome you to our home— and we hope you will make it your home. We’re confident that you’ll begin to see what makes Norwalk special. As we like to say, Noticeably convenient. Noticeably friendly. Noticeably excellent. Noticeably Norwalk!

Noticeably Norwalk.

TM

705 North Ave | 515-981-0228 | www.norwalk.iowa.gov

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Brooke Ridge West Grimes Construction is underway on our new plat in North Grimes!

Blocks from schools yet with an open country feel, Brooke Ridge West offers great lots at $60k-$100k. Lots available or build with Newblood Homes!

Newblood Development:

an aggressively growing real estate development company in the Greater Des Moines Area.

We pride ourselves on blending cutting edge design and top of the line quality, all for an

SOL

D!

16749 Verona Hills Drive Clive Brand new Verona plan on lot 4 within Verona Hills South, a walkout with a gently sloping backyard. 5 bed, 3 bath with a huge lower level living/rec room and full bar with game area. Tons of light and top of the line finishes.

Response to this plan has already lead to a beautiful custom, bring us your lot!

16629 Maple Street Clive Move in ready! This Bennington 2 story plan with 2400 square feet has all the upgrades and features that make this a quality Newblood Home. Great walkout lot blocks from Shuler Elementary make this a great place for your growing family! $389,900

16811 Prairie Drive Clive Brand new Chaparral ranch plan with 2640 feet finished on a great walkout lot. Waukee schools and located in the desirable Verona Hills South neighborhood, call now to personalize this home for a late summer move in! $399,900

Similar to Photo

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affordable price.

Single Family Homes Custom Homes Townhomes & Condos Land Development Commercial Build to Suit Construction Management

Eric Grubb, CCIM 515.975.7441 Eric@NewbloodDevelopment.com

Jeff Stanbrough, CCIM 515.202.6649 Jeff@NewbloodDevelopment.com

Jen Stanbrough 515.371.4814 jen@jenstanbroughrealestate.com

THE

POWER

To REDUCE ENERGY BILLS

Inside this issue Letter from the Editor

The power to lower monthly energy bills is in your hands with HomeCheck®, a free home energy assessment from MidAmerican Energy Company.

During an assessment, an energy specialist will suggest simple changes around your home that can make a big difference in energy savings.

The energy specialist may even provide free energyefficient improvements, such as low-wattage light bulbs, low-flow showerheads and energy-saving faucet aerators. Your home may qualify for insulation rebates, too.

Call us today to see if your home qualifies for a HomeCheck energy assessment. Or, conduct a free online home energy assessment by visiting www.midamericanenergy.com/homeaudit.

800-545-0762 www.midamericanenergy.com/ee

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Iowa Court of Appeals Rejects Argument to Impose Implied Warranty Upon Land Developers

12

Drum Roll... Presenting Van Nice Design & the Home Show Expo 2014

18

Iowa Home Prices Increased; Sales Decrease in May

21

Artistic Builder Delivering on High Standards with Creation of Beautifully Functional Homes

22

City of Norwalk Center Spread Map

26

Come See New Design Trends at the 2014 Home Show Expo

30

Economic Forecast for 2nd Half of 2014: Increasing Momentum, Reduced Headwinds 32 Understanding Your Typical Homeowners Insurance Policy

34

Buying Power

38

5 Tips for a Beautiful Yard this Summer

42

A Cluttered Website Doesn’t Sell

46

Correction: The picture that ran with Colin King’s article in Volume 14 Issue 3 was that of his business partner, Dean Vogel.

Colin King, co-owner of K & V Homes, is pictured here to the left. acquire magazine

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Letter from the Editor

It’s Home Show Time!

Ahhh, it’s July in Central Iowa and you know what that means... it’s time for the HBA’s annual HomeShowExpo!

A truly unique experience where visitors can tour newly-built and fully-decorated homes to gain ideas and information on the latest trends in homebuilding.

This year’s Home Show is at The Ridge at Echo Valley located in Norwalk and just south of the Highway 5 Bypass. The cost to tour the 11 featured homes is $10, and parking is at Norwalk High School.

Marc Kris Modern Homes, one of this year’s Home Show builders, is our cover feature for this issue. Read more about their common sense approach, high standards, and artistic designs on page 22. Also check out these other Home Show builders: American Heritage Homes (2), Neighborhood Builders (9), Ground Breaker Homes (16), and Sundance Homes (39).

In addition to the builders, we also have several Home Show subcontractors and suppliers advertising in this issue, as well as informative and interesting articles from Van Nice Design (19) and Ted Lare Design Build and Garden Center (42).

If you’re interested in advertising in Acquire Magazine, please contact us. Not only will your ad appear in the printed magazine, but Acquire is also available online, and emailed to over 3000 industry professionals. We also highlight each ad on our Facebook page to make sure you’re getting the most out of your advertisement.

As you can tell from this issue, we continue to grow Acquire Magazine, and we can’t thank you enough for your support and readership. Be sure to visit our new website www.AcquireMagazine.com and like us on Facebook. And we’ll see you at the Home Show!

Erin Larsen

AcquireMagazine.com Volume 14, Issue 4 Editor in Chief Erin Larsen Contributing Writers Creighton Cox Rachel Delzell Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D. Joseph Hinke Amy Lucht Jodie McDougal Melissa Peterson Todd Razor Mary Thompson

Published by Acquire Magazine, LLC For advertising information contact Erin Larsen at 515-650-0834

Publisher’s Notice: All advertisements for the sale, rental, financing, appraisal, & insurance of residential properties is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which generally makes it unlawful to make or publish any advertisement that indicates any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap or family status. Acquire Magazine will not knowingly accept any advertising for the sale, rental, financing, appraisal, or insurance of residential properties that include any unlawful preference, limitation, or discrimination.

Erin Larsen Editor in Chief

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Cover photo by: Jake Boyd, Jake Boyd Photo

Where “More is More”

A

rtesa Homes offers outstanding design and quality construction. A family-owned business, believing that every home built should be unique to you.

• A proposed new home being built in Enclave on Ashworth in WDM • 6 building lots available at Ashland Ridge in Ankeny • Ranch and 2-story home available at Westown Meadows in Waukee, prices starting at $315,000 Call Michele today for more info!

Michele Cheek COLDWELL BANKER ANKENY 2425 N. Ankeny Blvd. | Ankeny, Iowa 50023 Ph: 515-224-8672 | Ce: 515-240-0422 Michele.Cheek@ColdwellBankerMAG.com

Like us on Facebook

www.ArtesaHomesIowa.com

“First American made our home purchase truly a dream come true.”

Tracy Frette Mortgage Originator NMLS #488049

515-224-8762

tracy.frette@bankfirstamerican.com

Apply Online www.mortgage.bankfirstamerican.com acquire magazine

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LEACHMAN LUMBER COMPANY “where there’s a material difference”

Leachman Lumber is proud to have supplied

for the Ground Breaker Homes house showcased in this year’s HomeShowExpo in Norwalk.

www.leachmanlumber.com 1921 Hubbell Ave. | Des Moines, IA 50316 | 515-265-1621

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home or you have your eye on a house with room to grow, VisionBank has the best mortgage lenders with competitive rates and flexible terms to meet your needs.

VisionBank’s mortgages come equipped with low loan rates, no application fees and a fast approval process. But best of all, the VisionBank mortgage lenders provide the hassle-free, moneysaving experience you deserve.

APPLY ONLINE

VisionBank.com/ChadSorensen CHAD SORENSEN

VP-Mortgage and Consumer Lender 925 SE Gateway Dr. Grimes, IA 515-986-5746 chads@visionbank.com NMLS ID#: 740558 8 |

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Des Moines Homeshow Expo 2012 People’s Choice Winner

515-267-9001 www.NeighborhoodBuilders.com

Chad Baker 515-453-6102 acquire magazine

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A builder has never offered more to their clients than Remington Homes of Iowa!

Pine View Estates in Ankeny This wonderful price conscience development gives buyers a chance to own a high quality home that stays on budget while providing a fabulous location for bike trails and easy travel to Prairie Ridge Sports Complex, the public library, swimming pool and the new North High School. This combination provides pride of ownership for all! Come see our fabulous homes. Ready for Plat 2 for Summer/Fall builds!

Pine View Estates

Sacramento Base SOLD SOLD

Boston #1

2x6 Construction Blown-In Fiberglass Insulation Passive Radon 3.0 Energy Star and so much more!

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SOLD SOLD

SOLD SOLD SOLD Charleston #2

SOLD Madison Base Madison #3 Trenton Trenton #3 SOLD

HOLD HOLD HOLD

Darryl Bresson builder/ developer and owner of Bresson Construction, Remington Homes is leading the way by offering the highest standards, best quality products, craftsmanship and some of the best lot prices in Central Iowa. Darryl along with his skilled team of professionals has made Remington the home builder and developer of choice for many new home owners.

Some of our standards include:

SOLD

CharlestonSOLD Base

SOLD

Gable SOLD

SOLD SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

SOLD

SOLD Bismarck Charleston #2 Base

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

We are currently taking lot holds for all developments.

To view our floor plans, lots and developments please go to www. remingtonhomesiowa.com.

Rock Creek is one of Ankeny’s hottest

Rock Creek Crossing HOLD

HOLD

HOLD

HOLD HOLD

Trenton

Manchester Charleston Madison

Trenton

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

HOLD

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD Denver Bismarck Des Moines Denver

HOLD

Bismarck

Boston Sacramento

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

Madison

Trenton

Charleston

SOLD

SOLD Bismarck Jackson

SOLD

SOLD

Denver SOLD Cheyenne SOLD Springfield

SOLD Jackson

Lee Plan SOLD

SOLD Olympia

SOLD Trenton

Bismarck

Hurry! Lots are going fast!

SOLD Charleston SOLD Olympia

Trenton SOLD Bismarck SOLD

SOLD Madison

Madison Spec

SOLD

SOLD Richmond SOLD Olympia SOLD Dover

Trenton Denver SOLD

Charleston SOLD

developments. This subdivision is located in NW Ankeny and is surrounded by other quality residential homes and provides easy access to all Ankeny has to offer, including schools, parks and recreation. Great upscale neighborhood at great prices! Rock Creek is just one of the many developments that has been raising the bar for neighborhoods around the Des Moines Metro area.

This beautiful subdivision is selling out fast and Plat 3 is ready for late Summer/Fall builds. Don’t miss your chance to call Rock Creek Crossing Home!

Lost Lakes Estates

Lost Lake Estates in Polk City offers the

We offer a full service real estate team from the ground up!

For Lot Information:

Darryl Bresson 515-249-2507 For Home Information and Real Estate Services:

Steph Reed 515-988-9954 Brianne Braun 515-419-0673

buyer a chance to live near their favorite places to play. This new development is located near the entrance of Big Creek State Park, across from Tournament Club of Iowa Golf Course, several city parks and within minutes of Saylorville Lake and its recreation areas. Small town living located between Ankeny and Grimes with easy access to West Des Moines. Remington Homes offers no closing costs with preferred lender. Many of these wonderful lots are large and back to trees and Army Corp land as well as a community park. There is no other development that offers these great lots, prices, superior quality and affordability! Call us today, we are selling lots fast for late Summer and Fall builds. acquire magazine

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Iowa Court of Appeals Rejects Argument to Impose Implied Warranty upon Land Developers

Jodie McDougal, Construction Attorney Davis Brown Law Firm jodiemcdougal@davisbrownlaw.com 515-246-7951

O

n April 16, 2014, land developers and sellers breathed a sigh of relief after the Iowa Court of Appeals ruled that a purchaser of a residential building lot cannot sue the land developer for perceived deficiencies with the excavation and dirt work performed by that land developer.

Rosauer Corp. v. Sapp Development and WC Development, 2014 WL 1499861 (Iowa App. April 14, 2014) (unpublished).

By way of background, the defendant-developer in the matter, WC Development, owned by Todd Sapp (“Sapp Development”), had purchased farmland in the Sioux City area and created a residential subdivision. During this process, Sapp Development had certain excavation and dirt work performed on the land. Sapp Development sold the lot in question to a realtor, who in turn sold it to the end purchaser, Rosauer Corporation (“Rosauer”), who planned to build two townhomes on the lot. Prior to closing on the purchase of the lot, Rosauer chose not to perform any type of soil testing or boring. After the closing, and in later preparation for construction of the townhomes, Rosauer’s engineer recommended removal and replacement of the previously poured and compacted fill dirt and other related work, which allegedly amounted to approximately $75,000 worth of work. After such work was completed, Rosauer built and sold the townhomes.

In June of 2010, Rosauer filed suit against Sapp Development, seeking over $75,000 worth of damages and alleging that Sapp Development owed an implied duty to Rosauer to essentially warrant that the lot was suitable for building upon and alleging that Sapp had breached that duty. As most home builders and other general contractors in Iowa know, regardless of any express warranties that a home builder or general contractor may provide to the owner, there are also implied warranties under Iowa law. Most significantly, Iowa law imposes upon home builders and general contractors an implied warranty of workmanlike construction to the client-owner, as well as to the successive owners of that property for up to 15 years (pursuant to Iowa’s “statute of repose”). Under this common law, homeowners can sue their builders for breach of this implied warranty of workmanlike construction regardless of the expiration of any express warranties. As a side note, the HBA of Iowa and other related homebuilding associations have been working hard in recent years to enact legislation that would reduce the current 15-year statute of repose, which is one of the longest in the nation.

At trial, and in the later appeal, Rosauer argued that this same implied warranty of workmanlike construction should be imposed upon land developers and sellers in their sale of building lots. Rosauer pointed to other state courts, including Illinois, North Carolina, and Colorado, which have recognized this legal principle. Sapp’s responsive arguments were, in short, that the Iowa Supreme Court has never recognized the extension of this implied warranty to the sale of building lots and that the rule of caveat emptor should apply in the sale of land. Rosauer lost at trial and, thereafter, filed an appeal.

Thereafter, on April 16, 2014, the Court of Appeals issued its decision, agreeing with Sapp Development’s position and affirming the dismissal of Rosauer’s suit against Sapp Development. In its decision, the Iowa Court of Appeals held that to allow a “purchaser and commercial investor like Rosauer to benefit from an implied warranty of workmanlike performance” imposed upon the land developer and its excavation contractor would “outpace our existing precedence.”

The Iowa Court of Appeals further noted that it would leave any possible extension of the implied warranty of workmanlike construction to the Iowa Supreme Court. Thus, for now, land developers and sellers should breathe a sign of relief, but should also consider inclusion of additional language in their purchase agreements and contracts to insulate them as much as legally possible from these types of claims by the purchaser. Rosauer has since filed a request for the Iowa Supreme Court to hear the case. As of the writing of this article, this request is still pending, so there may be more to come on this case later this year. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

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Eric J. Grubb, CCIM <<<< 515-975-7441 >>>>

eric@solidgroundiowa.com

F eat ured De v el op men t s

S S

Timberview <<<< Adel >>>> Verona Hills South <<<<< Clive >>>>>

S S

S S S S S S S S S S S

S S

S

S S

S S

S S S

S

S SS S S S S

• Located just 1 mile north of Hickman Ave and Alice’s Rd

• Plat 1 now available for construction!

• Waukee school district

• Now pre-selling for Summer 2014 delivery of Timberview Plat 2

• 70’, 75’, and 80’ lots priced from $50-$70k’s • Berkshire Drive from Hickman all the way to Alice’s Rd now open!

•

Only 3 lots left!

• 70’-80’ lots with several walkouts backing to timber • Directly south of ADM High School, all City services •

7 Year 100% Tax Abatement!

Glenstone Meadows <<<<< GRIMES >>>>> • Our newest development, now under construction!

• East of Hwy 141 and SE 37th in SE Grimes • 44 Grayhawk townhomes available Fall 2014 • 3 acres of Office/Commercial with SE 37th frontage available • Access road and storm water detention installed • $4.50 per square foot – will divide

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SEPTEMBER

6, 7, 13 & 14

1:00 - 6:00 PM

Glynn Village – Waukee – HubbellLiving.com HUBBELL REALTY COMPANY

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Madden Construction 4th Generation Building Quality Affordable Homes Madden Construction has buildable lots in Norwalk (Legacy), Des Moines (Three Lakes Estates) and various other areas to build custom homes on.

Des Moines - Northeast Similar to Photo

1310 E 27th St. $137,900 Fairmont Plan 1550 sq. ft. | 3 bed | 2 bath

All New Homes Feature:

To see more layouts and listings please visit our website www.MaddenConstruction-Realty.com

Des Moines - Three Lakes Estates

SOLD

Similar to Photo

7014 Three Lakes Pkwy SOLD Cambridge Plan 1369 sq. ft. | 3 bed | 2.5 bath Similar to Photo

2825 Sweetwater $175,900 Cambridge Plan 1369 sq. ft. | 3 bed | 2.5 bath Under Construction Now!

ting Star uction r st con soon!

2821 Sweetwater $176,900 Merritt Plan 1438 sq. ft. | 3 bed | 2.5 bath Under Construction Now! 7112 Three Lakes Pkwy $178,900 Merritt Plan-Walkout 1438 sq. ft. | 3 bed | 2.5 bath

• H.E.R.S. Rated for Top Performing Energy Efficiency • High Efficiency HVAC System • High Efficiency, Award Winning Windows by Simonton • Exterior Walls Filled with Blown-in Cellulose Insulation • Spacious Kitchens with Pantry • Vaulted Ceilings • Easy to Finish Basement with Bath Stub • Passive Radon Mitigation

Ask about special financing options through our preferred lender, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

Legacy Pointe Plat 1 and 2 lots are all gone!

Contact us today to get started on your new home in Plat 3!

Legacy Pointe Plat #3 Norwalk, Iowa Spring 2014 2876 Jaden Lane: $169,900 Ashby Plan-Daylight 2877 Jaden Lane: $172,900 Cambridge Plan-Daylight

Andrew Dean Home Mortgage Consultant NMLSR ID 400466 515-237-5269 www.andrewdeanonline.com Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Equal Housing Lender. NMLSR ID 399801 AS998507. Expires 12/2013.

2878 Jaden Lane: $170,900 Cambridge Plan-Daylight 2879 Jaden Lane: $176,900 Merritt Plan-Daylight

Sample Homes

2889 Park Place: $168,900 Cambridge Plan

5909 Grand Avenue | Des Moines, Iowa 50312

Todd Madden 710-4226 Rick Madden 710-4227 515-255-1557

www.MaddenConstruction-Realty.com Equal Housing Opportunity

Merritt Plan

Cambridge Plan

Ashby Plan

Ask Madden Construction about the new homes with 5 or 10 year tax abatement! acquire magazine

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Ground Breaker’s 2014 HomeShow house in Norwalk.

• 5,049 Square Feet • 5 Bedroom • 5 Bath • Amazing view of downtown skyline • $950,000

The R idge at Echo Valley 3037 Prairie Rose Drive, Norwalk

Transit ional Style 1.5- Story

A modern exterior, barrel entryway and stunning views of the Echo Valley Golf Course and Downtown Des Moines will welcome 2014 Expo-goers to this five-bedroom, fivebathroom home with 10-foot ceilings, an easy and open floor plan, and abundance of natural light. The Ground Breaker Prairie Setter II floor plan includes 5,049 square foot of beautiful and efficient living space, featuring a luxurious main-level master suite and one-of-a-kind master bath complete with an elegant whirlpool, convenience of a dual-entry shower and separate entrances complementary to his and her styles.

Amazing built-ins including sleek office finishes are found throughout the home and a 21-foot coffered tray ceiling provides the perfect ambiance for gatherings in the family room. The home offers a contemporary gourmet kitchen with a stylish cabinet collection and oversized pantry with sliding ladder. There is a built-in wine wall in the dining room, which has a tray ceiling to complement the kitchen. The Prairie Setter II floor plan includes washer and dryer on two levels with the second level also featuring bedrooms with Jack & Jill-style bathrooms, and a loft space. The lower level boasts a sunken movie theater area and sunken bar with the convenience of a serving window to the outdoor living space.

12119 Stratford Dr, Ste B | Clive, IA 50325 515.309.0703 | info@groundbreakerhomes.com www.GroundBreakerHomes.com 16 |

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Don’t forget to stop in the garage to see the LEGO ® replica of Ground Breaker’s 2014 HomeShow house!

Kalen Ludwig, REALTOR ® Certified New Construction Sales Professional 515.402.3169 | Kalen@PeoplesCompany.com

www.PeoplesCompany.com

Special Thanks

to our subcontractors

Foundation

Div ision 1 I nsulation L LC Framing

Windows

Gumm Electric

Artistic Iron Works Coffman Glass Coleman Custom Concrete Dwell Home Furnishings Evergreen Landscaping GW Gutter Service Company

Come visit the HomeShowExpo 2014 at The Ridge at Echo Valley: July 12-13 | July 17-20 | July 24-27 acquire magazine

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Drum Roll...

Presenting Van Nice Design & the Home Show Expo 2014 Mary Thompson, Interior Designer Van Nice Design www.vannicedesign.com mary@vannicedesign.com

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Timeless Beauty Classic yet contemporary; timeless but with state-of-the-art technology. These words describe the stunning home that we at Van Nice Design, an interior design firm in West Des Moines, were thrilled to participate in for the Home Show Expo 2014 in collaboration with Ground Breaker Homes of Clive. This drop-dead gorgeous show house, opening July 12 in Norwalk, was an exciting endeavor in which we were able to work with several wonderful professionals in order to conceptualize and create a high-end custom home design guaranteed to knock your socks off. We were thrilled to be part of the design process.

Maybe you are wondering exactly what interior designers can do when it comes to building a home from the ground up? The answer is quite a bit!

Savvy Multitasking Our roles for the Ground Breaker Homes show house included color and finish consultation, aiding in the development of custom built-in designs, planning lighting fixture placement and selecting fine materials for both the exterior and interior of this elegant home. We also selected artwork, furnishings, and lighting fixtures, as well as creating space plans for each room in the home. This helps potential home buyers visualize the true potential of each area in the house and picture themselves living in it.

Endless Options While our roles may sound straightforward, helping to design a home’s interior from the foundation up is no simple task--especially when so many different individuals are involved in the decision-making process. When it comes to designing anything, there is rarely a right or wrong answer, and in a business where the options are endless, finalizing selections is a complicated albeit rewarding process. As interior designers at Van Nice Design, it is our privilege to listen to our clients and guide them through every step of the design process, ensuring that both their wants and needs are met--no matter how big or small a project may be.

Our Goal: Client Satisfaction In the instance of working on a home show house, our goal is the same as in working for an individual client – finding ways to make that client happy. In this case our clients included both Ground Breaker Homes and the future buyer of this beautiful custom-built house.

W

hile it’s our pleasure to rave about how gorgeous this house

is, words can only reveal so much. So, everyone at Van Nice Design extends a warm welcome for you to come visit us this July, stroll through the Ground Breaker Homes show house, and see it for yourself. Van Nice Design will be there to answer any questions you have about the interior design. The Home Show Expo 2014 in Norwalk, Iowa, runs July 12-13, July 17-20 and July 25-28. We look forward to seeing you there!

Facts at a Glance What: Home Show Expo 2014

Where: Norwalk, Iowa – House #2

Enough about us, though – here is an overview of what the Ground Breaker Homes home show house has to offer: Modern Take on Classic Prairie Style Ground Breaker Homes of Clive and Van Nice Design present a modern take on the Prairie Style house with this high-end custom home nestled into the picturesque community of the Ridge at Echo Valley in Norwalk, Iowa. Upon approaching the home, visitors are greeted with the signature low-pitched roof, wide overhanging eaves, use of natural materials and emphasis of horizontal lines synonymous with the Prairie Style vernacular. One cannot help but appreciate this truly Midwestern home’s exterior. As inspiring as the exterior is, the interiors are arguably even more impressive.

Jaw-dropping Entryway As visitors venture inside the home, they find themselves ensconced in an intimate barrel-vaulted entryway with archways that lead the way to the open kitchen, dining area and great room. The first floor also boasts a master suite with a his-and-hers bathroom as well as a spacious walk-in closet with first floor laundry, a powder room, office, mud room and pantry. Mindfully selected colors, finishes, fixtures, furniture and custom millwork only begin to hint at the luxury this home has to offer.

When: July 12-13, 17-20, and 25-28

Who: Ground Breaker Homes, Clive, in collaboration with Van Nice Design, West Des Moines Admission information and specific times can be found at the Home Show

Expo website: www.dmhomeshow.com

F

or more information regarding interior design services Van Nice

Design can provide you, feel free to

contact us at 515.226.2170 or visit us on the web at www.vannicedesign.com.

A Trio of Lovely, Efficient Levels The home includes a second floor and walk-out basement, with the second floor consisting of three additional bedrooms, a Jack-and-Jill bathroom and an additional laundry area for the ultimate in home owner convenience. The inviting basement level includes a bar, theater space, game room, home gym and guestroom with attached bathroom.

Seamless Flow From one room to the next, the repetition of architectural details, finishes and motifs help each space flow seamlessly from one to the next. No detail was overlooked, from the ceiling design down to the flooring selection. In terms of interior style, transitional would best describe this home with both modern and classical elements. acquire magazine

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Golf Course Lots Available!

The Legacy, located in Norwalk, is a golf course community with amenities including recreational trails, parks and community clubhouse with a pool.

Contact New Home Site Realty to learn more!

April Breig | 515-783-3608 april@newhomesiterealty.com Licensed in the State of Iowa

NewHomeSiteRealty.com

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Housing Trends Report

Iowa Home Prices Increased; Sales Decreased in May

Amy Lucht, Communications Coordinator Iowa Association of Realtors® amyl@iowarealtors.com

Iowa Association of REALTORS®

CLIVE, IOWA (June 18, 2014) – Home prices continued to climb while sales decreased last month in Iowa, reports the Iowa Association of Realtors® (IAR).

According to the IAR’s May 2014 Housing Trends Report, the median sale price across the state increased by 1.1 percent, climbing from $137,500 in May of last year to $139,000 this May. The average sale price decreased slightly by 1 percent, going from $161,098 last May to $159,442 this May. “With the expectation that interest rates may rise, we urge buyers to start building wealth and invest in real estate,” says Kathy Miller, President of the Iowa Association of Realtors®. “Likewise, sellers are realizing the importance of positioning their properties correctly in the marketplace,” adds Miller.

Sold activity was down in May 2014 when compared to the number of sold properties in May 2013. Sales decreased by 15.4 percent from last year. A total of 4,116 homes sold/closed in May 2013, and 3,482 homes sold/closed in May 2014.

Average days on the market also continued to decrease, dropping another 7 days to 90 days. The average days on the market in May 2013 were 97 days.

The information used to create the IAR May 2014 Housing Trends Report was current as of June 10th at 8:19 a.m. The information is subject to change due to the dynamic nature of the IAR’s housing statistics system, which is updated hourly based on information present in local participating MLS (multiple listing service) systems.

The term Realtor® is a registered trademark, which identifies real estate professionals who follow a strict Code of Ethics as members of the National Association of Realtors®. The Iowa Association of Realtors® is the state’s largest real estate professional organization representing nearly 6,400 members and affiliates. The IAR releases a Housing Trends Report each month. Data is collected from local Realtor® boards through their multiple listing service (MLS), which tracks sales activities in the board area. The IAR compiles all of the local board data into the statewide report each month. Reports are available online to IAR members and affiliates with a login and password. Anyone is eligible to become an IAR affiliate. For membership information, visit www.iowarealtors.com. acquire magazine

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Artistic Builder Delivering on High Standards with Creation of

Beautifully Functional Homes West Des Moines-based custom builder Marc Kris Modern Homes combines common sense approach with the highest of standards to deliver beautifully unique living spaces.

An abundance of creative energy combined with a common sense approach to new construction permeates the work of Marc Kris Modern Homes, a custom builder with a passion for mixing artistic designs and a practical touch to deliver beautifully unique – and highly functional – residential living spaces.

Kris McVicker, a veteran of the interior design and remodeling industry who founded West Des Moines-based Marc Kris in 2011, says thoughtfulness and thoroughness are mainstay values of her organization, including three fulltime employees and a network of like-minded manufacturers, suppliers and subcontractors focused on the creation of dwelling places people can’t wait to come home to.

For Marc Kris, a happy medium between form and functionality in the design of a new home starts shaping up in McVicker’s mind during her team’s initial meeting with a prospective buyer, and immediately following as the builder begins to paint a mental picture of a homeowner’s tastes and style as they relate to his or her way of life.

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Listening carefully and effectively to the needs and wants of her clients, McVicker says, inspires creative brainstorming sessions among herself and Marc Kris designers Rita Byers and Jenna Ver Ploeg, who collaborate closely to imagine and produce detailed renderings and house plans that reflect the distinctive nature and unique characteristics of the individuals they come into contact with.

“We strive to please an array of people with our timeless, low-maintenance decisions for any style of home,” McVicker says. “From more traditional designs to modern ranch and contemporary style homes, we provide exceptional craftsmanship and rich interiors that blend timeless designs with a functional mindset. One of our primary goals is to bring quality and personality back to homebuilding.”

“I want people to come home at the end of their chaotic day and say, ‘I’m home. I love it here.’”

- Kris McVicker

McVicker says focusing on the specific rooms or areas of a home in which convenience and comfort are most appreciated by the owners allows Marc Kris to drill down into what makes the most sense in terms of the cost-effective allocation of any given client’s resources, and streamline the construction process on their behalf. From stain-andscratch resistant quartz countertops to exotic laminates, floor coverings, and the proper balance of texture, patterns and color, McVicker and her staff are constantly evaluating the newest products and most durable solutions to suit various lifestyles or daily routines.

In the past three years, Marc Kris has delivered nearly 20 homes across the Des Moines-metro area with custom builds in Bent Creek Estates in Urbandale, Heritage Bend in West Des Moines, and Painted Woods in Waukee, as well as neighborhoods in Ankeny and Indianola, and two more homes planned for construction in Norwalk this year. Twothousand-and-fourteen marks the first year that Marc Kris has signed up to exhibit a home in Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines’ Home Show Expo, scheduled to take place July 12-13, July 17-20 and 24-27, at The Ridge at Echo Valley in Norwalk.

She says special touches such as installing loads of insulation to soundproof interior walls and exterior siding that features a manufacturer’s 30-year, no-fade warranty come standard with each Marc Kris home, rather than offered as an upgrade, providing added value to homeowners without sacrificing that high-end look and feel.

“For example, we love color, but we use it wisely,” she says. “We love texture, yet scream low maintenance, both inside and out. We’re involved during every step in the process, and every home we build is constructed to be timeless for the homeowner.”

Marc Kris, in its display of a contemporary ranch-style home, will showcase a modern living space with tile plank flooring, decorative acrylic panels, textured wool carpet and a floor-to-ceiling concrete fireplace. Clean lines, glass garage doors, custom railing and grey composite decking material make up the exterior of this Home Show Expo entry, featuring a spacious kitchen with a walk-in pantry and induction cook top stove. Custom floating vanities and a children’s bedroom with wall-to-wall built-ins are among additional highlights of the super-functional space, which includes a high-efficiency heating and cooling system and lower-level wine display area. Two-inch LED recessed lighting is featured throughout the home, which McVicker has been told is representative of one of the first installations of its kind in the nation.

Byers, an Iowa-native and Marc Kris designer who joined McVicker in 2010 as she planned an entrance into the Des Moines-area homebuilding market, says the company always does its best to educate future home occupants while finding out which elements they are going to be most happy with in regards to their lifestyle and immediate surroundings.

“First we determine if an owner needs help with selecting a lot, and then we go look at it to help figure out exactly how the home should be oriented,” Byers says. “Where are the trees? Where does the sun come up? How will that affect your views? Also, does the homeowner have children or pets, or are there other special considerations, such as plans to age in the home? That extra thought, perspective and attention to detail – from a female perspective – is invaluable during the design process. Everything is completely thought through.”

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McVicker’s experience as a local construction and design professional spans nearly 20 years, including both as the owner of Marc Kris and its 13-year-old affiliate, Corporate Décor + More. She says her past participation with the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines’ annual event included designs for a Troon Homes project showcased during the 2007 Home Show Expo in Johnston’s Silverstone neighborhood. The home was recognized with multiple awards, including showings for Best Curb Appeal and Best Overall Kitchen, as well as a placement in the Best Craftsmanship division and a win for Best Secondary Bedroom.

“Our homes incorporate the best of everything,” McVicker says. “The relationship with our sister company Corporate Décor + More allows us to stay on the cutting edge from shingle to accessory, though that doesn’t always mean the latest and greatest is what you should purchase. We’re genuine about the products and services we offer, and as down to earth as we can be regarding the ideas and services we deliver.

“Our motto since day one has been “Professional Designed, Individually Built.’ An investment in Marc Kris Modern Homes is an investment in quality. I want people to come home at the end of their chaotic day and say, ‘I’m home. I love it here.’”

www.marckrismh.com

Story by Todd Razor, Three Razors Media

515.689.9220

Photos by Jake Boyd Photo

Let City State Bank help bring your home to life!

Purchase or Refinance Today 15 YEAR:

30 YEAR:

180 payments of $6.90 per month per thousand borrowed (does not include taxes or insurance so actual payment may be greater). APR based on loan amount of $100,000 with a 5% down payment, 1% origination fee and customary closing costs.

Credit qualifications apply. Rates and terms subject to change.

360 payments of $4.84 per month per thousand borrowed (does not include taxes or insurance so actual payment may be greater). APR based on loan amount of $100,000 with a 5% down payment, 1% origination fee and customary closing costs.

Credit qualifications apply. Rates and terms subject to change.

3.00% Rate 3.32% APR 4.00% Rate 4.30% APR Looking to build a new home? We’d love to help! Contact one of our lenders for rates.

Jan Sparks Norwalk 515-981-1378 NMLS #478069

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Nicol Hoover Norwalk 515-981-1382 NMLS #478070

Dustin Andersen Madrid 515-795-3807 NMLS #508737

Steve Davis Grimes 515-240-1111 NMLS #478064

Sheena Cook Grimes 515-306-1425 NMLS #478071

Chrissy Draper Grimes 515-339-5118 NMLS #815246

Mary Kay Hamell Indianola 515-961-7000 NMLS #478060

Modern Homes For Sale

New Construction Ranch Homes

by Marc Kris Modern Homes • Living area: 1673 sq ft, basement 1028 sq ft, daylight lot • 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths • Kitchen has Quartz countertops, large island, decorative backsplash • Master suite with walk-in closet, tile shower, luxury vinyl tile • Lower level has great family room, 2 bedrooms, full bath • Exterior has combination of LP Siding, stucco, cedar, and stone • 9 foot ceilings on both levels

1304 West 14th Avenue | Indianola, Iowa Price: $336,900 | MLS #: 437145 | Peoples Company Listing #: 11906

1205 NW Abbie Drive | Ankeny, Iowa Price: $319,900 | MLS #: 437074 | Peoples Company Listing #: 11904

Kalen Ludwig, REALTOR® 515-402-3169 Kalen@PeoplesCompany.com

Keaton Dreher, REALTOR® 712-299-7478 Keaton@PeoplesCompany.com

www.PeoplesCompany.com

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50th St

S 35th St. N 35th St.

Cumming Av.

30th Av.

N. Fielding Av. N. Callison Av. N. Birch Av. N. Alice Av.

q

WARREN COUNTY

N

Clarke St.

ran

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CUMMING

24th Av.

15th Av.

20th Av.

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N. Greenlee

R45

q

LEGEND

Be Middle South Creek

q G14 Sundance Ct.

Silverado Dr.

NORWALK CITY LIMITS

Clarke St.

Norwalk Corporate Limits Commercial/Industrial

35

q

STREET & ROAD INDEX

q

q 0

49th Ln.

Norwalk School District Norwalk Trail System Proposed Trail

MILEAGE SCALE

Dubuque St.

1

45th Av.

30th Av.

Delaware St.

The Great Western Trail

Future Development

50th Av.

Coolidge St.

N

Albany Trl. Ala mo Trl. Art hu r Tr l.

NORWALK CITY LIMITS

WEST DES MOINES

25th Av.

97th Av.

Warren Av.

COUNTY LINE

140th St. acquire magazine

Orilla

Adams St.

q

10th Av.

R35

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Norwalk School District

The Great Western Trail

Warren Av.

130th St.

Norwalk School District

MADISON COUNTY

County Line Rd.

Future Major Arterial

NORWALK CITY LIMITS

Future I-35 Interchange

Future

Maffit Lake Ct.

S 20th St.

Future Major Arterial

S 50th St.

Adams St.

Southwest Connector

Cumming Rd.

S 22nd St.

S 42nd St. COUNTY LINE

WARREN COUNTY

Future S 22nd St. Extension

Future S 35th St. Extension

POLK COUNTY

105th St.

Wil Go

SW Maffit Lake Rd. Future S 42nd St. Extension

MADISON COUNTY

G14

Army Post Rd.

5 Dale Maffit Reservoir

DALLAS COUNTY

WEST DES MOINES

s

Future S 35th St. Extension

Raccoon River

Maffit Lake Rd.

Hidden Valley Soccer Field

Walnut Woods Dr.

S Orilla Rd.

Raccoon River Dr.

Commerce Dr.

40th Av.

F90

Future S 50th St. Extension

Brow

50th Av.

DMACC West Campus

P

Walnut Woods State Park

Ve te

v.

Grand A

B

50th Av.

Private

Dakota Dr. Misty Ln.

Raccoon River

Raccoon River Regional Park

S 11th St.

68th S

1 mile

35

Glen Oaks Country Club

rd Av.

Booneville Rd.

Jordan Creek Town Center

q

Future

Southwest Connector

SW McKinley Av.

Downtown Des Moines 4 miles

SW 56th St.

Des Moines International Airport

Norwalk-McAninch Sports Park

85th Av.

SW 9th St.

83rd Av.

NORWALK CITY LIMITS

80th Av.

Clover Hill Dr.

93rd Av. 83rd St. Avery Dr.

Parkhill Dr. Rolling Norwood Dr. Hills Cir.

Shady Windflower Dr. Green Lane Dr. Hills Cir.

Windflower Park

High School Eastview 8 to 9 Middle School

Public Works School Bus Facility

Coolidge St.

Warrior Run Golf Course

Vista Ct.

Public

North Av.

NORWALK CITY LIMITS

Rolling Hills Dr.

Prairie Vista Dr. Green Hills Dr.

Hunter Dr.

Rolling Hills Dr.

E 20th St.

NORWALK CITY LIMITS

E 19th St. E 17th St.

E 18th St.

Cassady Dr.

E 13th St.

Avery Av. Shady Lane Dr.

DES MOINES

Green Way Dr.

Carpenter St.

G14

This map was prepared for

City of Norwalk

MAPART

North River

ART & DESIGN PUBLISHING No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission from Steve Peglow 515-262-2695

steve@peglowart.com

COPYRIGHT 2014

R63

R57 Dubue St.

94th Ln.

Hakes Dr.

Swan Dr.

Buchanan Trail

91st Ln.

Business Park

Cemetary

100th Av.

Fleur Dr. Wright Rd.

Center St.

Lewis Av.

Center Pl.

Main St.

Marie Av.

Pine Av. District Elm Av. Office Onstot Ln. Maple Av.

Parkhill Dr.

Hughes Rd.

Edgemont

South Av.

School Av.

Oviatt Elem.

Columbine

Pinehurst Columbine

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Sunset Dr.

Cedar St.

Oak St.

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Aquatic Center

5 Blue St.

E 27th St.

Snyder Av.

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Pin

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Su

Jackson

Redwood Dr.

Linden Dr.

Kitterman Cr.

Sycamore Dr.

Mafred

NORWALK CITY LIMITS

Delaware St.

Skylane Dr. Meadow Dr. Holly Dr.

Aspen Dr.

Sundowner Av.

Winesap Dr. Freestone Dr. McIntosh Dr. Cortland Dr.

W Pine Av.

★City Hall

Trevor Ct. Michael Dr.

Aspen Dr.

Park

Tangelo Cir.

Orchard Hills Dr.

Water Tower

Orchard Hills Dr.

G14

Parkhill Dr. No rw

Valley View Dr.

Merle Huff Av.

Avery Ct. Victoria Cir. Justin Ct.

WARREN COUNTY

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Norwalk School District

Knoll Dr.

North Av.

★

Cassandra Richard George

.

St

Spruce St.

Post Office 8th

Shady Ln.

NE Colonial Pkwy.

Blank Golf Course

Border St.

Site of 2014 HOME SHOW

E1

Park

Beardsley St.

★ Public Safety

Cherry Pkwy.

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High Rd.

Main St. Birch St.

Dr .

Chatham Av. Gordon Av. Ashwood Av.

Holly Dr.

ur

★

Echo Ridge Trail

Prairie Sage Dr.

q

Colonial Circle

Bris

fo

Dorchester St.

Dorchester Cir. Ba Essex l Cir.

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Bluestem Rd.

Norwood Ct. E 14th St.

Legacy Pkwy.

The Legacy Golf Club

Pinehurst

Woodmayr

Elmcrest

Colonial Pkwy.

t

cke

ntu

Na

Saw

gra

ss

Thornhill Rd.

Woodmayr

Park Pl.

Park

Turnberry Dr.

Turnberry

Cherry St.

na

Kingston Pl.

Cedar St.

Newport Pl. Cypress Pl. Laurel Pl.

Sunn ni gdale Dr.

do

Dr.

Berkshire

Crescent Ln.

e r. S

ton

Reedannland Farms

Golden Valley

Waveland

Park

Hawthorne Ct.

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ing

Georgetown Av.

Hyperion

Georgetown Pl. Canterbury Pl.

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The Ridge Echo Valley

Pinehurst

Grandview Lakewood Oakcreek Pointe

dso

Lex

Win

Hawthorne Dr.

a din Me ord Oxf

Blank Park Zoo

County Line Rd.

Echo Valley Golf & Country Club

Columbine

Woodmayr

Old Orchard

Augusta

Ponderosa

Devlin Candlewick Wakonda Happy Hollow

Clearwater Wakonda

Oakcreek

Marina

Lakewood d Oakwoo t cres Maple

Lakewood Elem.

Lakewood Cir.

Middle South Creek

Delvin

Lake Colchester

Greens Dr.

28

q

Airport Commerce Park South

Echo Valley Dr.

Old Orchard

S 5th Av.

5

som Blos Apple rn bu Brae Rellim

Fort Des Moines

Army Post Rd.

NORWALK

eardsley St.

2 miles 2 miles

Army Post Rd.

Willow Cr. St.

Pine Av.

Southridge Mall

Old Army Post Rd.

SW 60th St.

llow Creek olf Course Public

DES MOINES

Des Moines International Airport

SW 42nd St.

Future

S 1st St.

Pa rk

wa y

SW 63rd St.

SW McKinley Av.

88th Av.

wn's Woods Dr.

The Great Western Trail

Fleur Dr.

28

Brown's Woods Forest Preserve

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• Lot loans • Permanent financing

• Bridge loans • Construction loans

Call Bryan today about customizing a loan program to meet your specific needs. He’ll tell you about State Savings Bank’s competitive rates and low down-payment options.

West Des Moines 4800 Mills Civic Parkway, Suite 100 West Des Moines, Iowa 50265

Bryan Rowland Relationship Manager (515) 457-9533 MLO # 876365

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The Ridge at Echo Valley in Norwalk Parking and free shuttle at Norwalk High School, 1201 North Ave

July 12-13, 17-20 and 24-27

New homes, fresh designs, local experts.

See the latest trends from local builders; each home is filled with new ideas you can use in your current home or your next one.

N O T I C E A B LY N O R WA L K .

â&#x201E;˘

dmhomeshow.com

Come see new design trends at the Creighton Cox, Executive Officer Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines

T

2014 Home Show Expo

he National Association of Home Builders recently announced the winners of the Best in American Living Awards – a prestigious award program that spotlights design excellence for the entire residential building industry.

Award recipients represent the forefront of innovative design in America, and are lauded as the most creative and inventive builders, remodelers, architects, developers, land planners and interior designers in the nation.

Based on submissions from this year’s crop of winners, some of the newest trends in design that home buyers will see over the next several years include: White on White Cabinets, flooring, backsplashes, counters, fixtures and appliances are beginning to lighten up. Layering white on top of white is a new approach in many kitchens and bathrooms that is giving way to a fresh and light feeling. To achieve clean lines and a modern feel, designers and builders are selecting European cabinetry, adding shiny surfaces via appliance, backsplash and countertop choices, and incorporating glass walls.

Bold Exterior Colors Bold colors are making their way to the exterior of homes. Whether it’s through paint, a mix of cladding materials, doors, windows, porches, shutters or trim, an extra layer of drama is being adding to the design of elevations, further enhancing curb appeal.

Specialty Lighting Specialty fixtures are “lighting it up” this year.

Regardless of whether it involves a custom or a stock fixture, designers are finding ways to showcase them as pieces of art rather than just a functional element. Lighting is being paired with wood ceiling details to further enhance the room’s design and create a feeling of warmth.

Blurring the Lines Between Inside and Out Lines continue to be blurred between the inside and outside of homes. No longer limited to areas with warmer climates, this is being seen all across the country.

More homes now feature moveable glass walls, gourmet outdoor kitchens and interior courtyard pools, adding more everyday living space.

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T

Interior Courtyards Interior courtyards are popular in all housing types right now. The primary difference is scale.

Within single-family homes, courtyards provide private and safe outdoor living areas and are being shifted to side yards.

Historic Style with Modern Flair New or remodeled homes, whether they are Craftsman, Prairie, Mid-Century Modern or another historic architectural style, are adding modern flair to their traditional designs through color, finish, fixture and lighting selection, while continuing to be influenced by the past through the use of reclaimed building materials and classic proportions and detailing.

The Ridge at Echo Valley in Norwalk

Parking and free shuttle Norwalk High School, 1201 North o find an industry professional ready toatbring these exciting newAve trends to your new home and to see these trends live, come visit the 2014 Home Show Expo presented by the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines, Coppola Enterprises and Echo Valley Country Club at the Ridge at Echo Valley, a Vista Real Estate development. For additional details including dates, hours, and parking, please visit www.dmhomeshow.com or www.desmoineshomebuilders.com.

July 12-13, 17-20 and 24-27

MOAB CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

OUR EXTENSIVE BACKGROUND PROVIDES YOU WITH THE KNOWLEDGE AND CREATIVITY TO DESIGN THE PERFECT INDOOR AND OUTDOOR FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AREAS.

• Custom bars, wine cellars and family spaces

• Over 20 years of design and build

• In house design team

• Our work is published in Man Caves 2012 and 2013 and Family Fun Rooms 2014

MOAB Construction | PO Box 13245 | Des Moines, IA 50310 | 515.277.7122 | www.moabconstructioncompany.com

Economic Forecast for 2nd Half of 2014:

Increasing Momentum, Reduced Headwinds June 2014

Despite GDP growth stalling in Q1 due to the Polar Vortex, slower inventory accumulation and mildly lower exports, the economic recovery remains intact. The anemic performance of the US economy from January through March was aberrant, and the incoming employment, manufacturing and consumer spending data all point to an economic pickup. GDP growth the rest of the year should average 3%, with growth in Q2 closer to 3.25% as the economy rebounds from the harsh winter. In addition, reduced fiscal drag from DC, increased hiring and spending by state and local governments, and increased corporate spending on plant and equipment suggest we are finally entering a period of faster growth.

That said, economically all is not well. Wage growth remains anemic and while the unemployment rate is 6.3%, down from 10%, the fall is largely due to a decline in the labor force participation rate. The ranks of the long-term unemployed remain elevated, along with the number of those working part-time because they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find full time work.

Add to that average overtime hours that are remarkably high and termination rates that are very low and what you have are employers very reluctant to hire. This situation cannot persist, and of late job creation numbers have been on the upswing. Therefore, net job creation will rise from 200,000/month, where it has been for the past year, to 220,000 or 225,000 by year end and unemployment will probably fall to 6.1%. I expect wage growth to start picking up steam in 2015.

Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D. is President of GraphsandLaughs, LLC and can be reached at Elliot@graphsandlaughs.net.

His daily 70 word economics and policy blog can be seen at www.econ70.com.

The biggest drag on the economy is housing. After a promising first half of 2013, the housing market is, at best, flat. While rising interest rates and home prices, a lack of inventory and lots, shortages of materials and labor, and a lack of credit and first-time buyers play a part, weak household formation is the main culprit. After averaging over 1.2 million in the years prior to the Great Recession, household formations have been averaging 500,000 since the end of the recession. The good news - household formation will rise now that all eight million jobs lost during the recession have been finally made up. We are no longer making up lost ground. Because of this, new single-family construction activity in 2014 will reach 700,000, with multifamily adding 350,000, while existing home sales should be down slightly from last year.

As for inflation, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s benign. No matter how measured, there is no inflation to speak of in the US. Commodity prices will remain well-behaved given weak demand due to economic slowing in China and weak growth in Europe and the developing nations. Absent some sort of geopolitical crisis, energy prices will remain where they are thanks to record US oil production. As a result, expect tapering to end in November and for the Federal Reserve to begin raising short-term interest rates by mid-2015. However, long-term rates have bottomed and 10-yr Treasuries will end the year at about 3% as the economy steadily strengthens.

In short, the economy is improving and Q1 was a speed bump. Long term rates will rise, short-term rates will remain unchanged, and housing will limp into 2015, with prices rising slightly. Most critically, household formation will strengthen and corporate, state and local government spending will rise. Lastly, the likelihood of a recession during the next six months is virtually zero.

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w w w.e c on70.c om

l ai Tr ke Bi rn te es tW ea Gr

Fox Valley

• West Des Moines • Lots Starting at $56,180 • Fiber to the Home • Norwalk School District • Access to Great Western Bike Trail

Pla t 2

Call 515-274-3411

North

Plat 2

for more information

Plat 1

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515-274-3411 | www.colbyinterests.com 6581 University Avenue| Windsor Heights, IA 50324

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| 33

Understanding Your Typical Homeowners Insurance Policy Joey Hinke, President Miller, Fidler & Hinke Insurance Agency, Inc. www.millerfidlerandhinke.com | jhinke@mfhins.com

I

t’s fun to buy new things… it’s fun to travel and visit new places…

We all work hard every day so we can do these things for ourselves and family. Information is readily available everywhere we look for hot new items, clothes, vacation destinations and research can be an enjoyable experience. That’s what makes life fun and interesting, work hard, plan for fun and exciting things in the future. We all constantly plan on fun things happening in the future.

It’s not fun to buy insurance. This is the one item we buy with a lack of information about the specific product. It simply isn’t readily available.

We can find information on the people who sell the products and the companies involved, but not the actual product. Along with this, it’s one of the only items we as consumers buy that essentially a bet on the down side. In order for the product to work properly, something bad has to happen… fires aren’t fun, automobile accidents aren’t fun…

I’ve been an insurance nerd for the better part of two decades now and there’s a pattern or common theme to the questions people ask me. All of which begin with, “…is it covered if <fill in the blank> happens?” Here is a list of a few things not generally known or understood regarding a typical Homeowners and Personal Auto Insurance policy. Hope this helps…

1 2 3 4 5 6

A pipe that freezes/bursts in your home is not entirely covered. The damage to your home and/or personal property the frozen or burst pipe causes IS covered, but the cost to repair/replace the actual pipe that caused the issue is not covered… the latest winter we all enjoyed made this a common topic of conversation many times recently as you could imagine.

Roommates/un-wed couples residing in the same home do not have automatic coverage on a homeowners policy. A homeowners policy is designed to provide coverage for the named insured of that policy, blood or adopted relatives living in the home, and temporary guests.

BOTH must be listed as a NAMED INSURED on a homeowners insurance policy to get the same coverage, or one may need a renters insurance policy.

Business activities are excluded, and most business property is limited to $2,500 in coverage. Some types of in-home businesses may make you ineligible for coverage with certain insurance companies in general, others may require you to carry insurance separately on the business... depending on the nature of the business being conducted.

Flood is not covered by your insurance policy.

Vacating your home for more than 60 consecutive days can void vandalism and malicious mischief coverage for your home.

Liability coverage automatically extends to vacant land you own, via your homeowners insurance policy. However, if there is a man-made fence, pole, road, etc. located on this property, it MUST be listed on your homeowners policy to provide this liability coverage.

Call us if we can make the insurance buying process more fun. Either way, go buy fun things, have fun with your family, and have a great summer!

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w w w. m iller fidler a ndhink e .c om

The Miller, Fidler & Hinke Insurance Agency offers a wide spectrum of products and services for our clients. At Miller, Fidler & Hinke Insurance Agency we spend countless hours analyzing each family and individual company’s risk and rendering results customized to each customer. Every family and company is unique, because of this each interaction with our customer is unique. Everything we do is 100% customized for our customers with the goal of protecting your family and company, accomplishing your goals and creating a superior customer experience.

Home & Auto Insurance Commercial Property & Casualty Insurance • Builders Risk • Surety •

products & services

About Us

Contact us anytime. We would love the opportunity to earn your business.

•

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Miller, Fidler & Hinke Insurance Agency Corporate Headquarters 12035 University Avenue, Ste. 202 | Clive, IA 50325 | 515 -223 - 6757

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Username with new Hy-Vee and I-80 interchange coming soon!

Plenty of parking, pole sign, and 21,600 VPD

355 SEcentral Alice’s Rd,real Waukee In 2001, Dan Stanbrough recreated a name that is synonymous with Iowa estate: Stanbrough Companies $6.00/SF with it's familiar "black and gold" signage - is back.

Eric Grubb, CCIM

Phone: 515.334.3345 Stanbrough Today Mobile: 515.975.7441 Today, in the surging new wave of growth and expansion in the metro area of Des Moines, Dan Stanbrough guides this eric@stanbroughrealty.com

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transformation as head of the family realty, home building, development and property management companies.

www.stanbroughrealty.com/ericgrubb

Sons Jeff and Brad hold key ownership and leadership positions in the company. Jeff is now president and CEO/owner of Stanbrough Realty and Brad is now president and CEO/owner of Stanbrough Homebuilders and Stanbrough Commercial Builders.

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Dan Stanbrough has acquired and totally renovated Saylorville Marina into Iowa's largest marina, and is one of the founding shareholders in the new Iowa Speedway in Newton. 5701 Fleur Dr, Des Moines

Findand a Listing Hubbell Broadway, Des Moines $5/SF – $228,500 $13/SF NNN or $425,000 Property "I enjoy the creativity of helping shape what1808-3008 happens for generations.

I have pride Former in IowaQuiznos and Desspace, Moines. 1I've acre lot perfect for fastType food, auto service, or retail. Just off SF future with potential drive-thru available. lived here all my life; my kids are fourth generation city.

So you get from to know community pretty well, and wantthe to bypass, across from new Kum and Go (2014). Heavily adjacentintothis H&R Block.

Across Des aMoines International Airport.

Any City positively impact what's ahead. My sons are very entrepreneurial andtenant I'm proud they are.allowance They will available. continue our family traveled corridor.

Over 700’ feet of combined road frontage!

Monument signage and improvement Min Price tradition."

The Family Tradition

Max Price Zipcode:

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NORWALK

3089 North Avenue Norwalk, Iowa 50211 515-981-0266 WarriorRunGolf.com

Warrior Run Golf Course features a state-of-the-art training facility with PGA professionals; a covered year-round, all-weather driving range, pro shop and restaurant. Warrior Run is also home to the Central Iowa G.I.V.E. Foundation and Warrior Run Estates.

Trust Seneca for Your Pre-Purchase Investigation - Phase I/II Services

Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) • Planning tool for buyers, sellers and lenders assessing potential financial liabilities due to environmental issues - assisting with: • Identifying conditions that may increase redevelopment costs • Identifying risks that require regulatory action • Eliminating transaction delays • Identifying conditions that may result in land use restrictions

Phase II • Seneca can make recommendations for Phase II based on the findings/results of the Phase I assessment • Phase II assessments are carefully tailored using state-of-the-art engineering techniques and procedures to address specific problems • Solutions can range from traditional removal and disposal to more complex treatment systems depending on the findings

Environmental Services

4140 E. 14th Street Des Moines, IA 50313 Darren Binning: 515.261.7705

www.senecaco.com ~ 800.369.3500 36 |

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e h t e I li k h o f t m r a w d o o w re a l

S im p le E leg a n c e

W OW R e a dy f o r b o a t d ri n ks !

4033 NW Urbandale Drive | Urbandale, IA 50322 | (515) 276-3341 | www.DeckedOutSide.com

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9 4 1 Buying Power 4324715 6 5 76 8 7 3 29412 5 78326 1 What’s my number?

One of the first questions any homebuyer asks is, “What do I qualify for?” More than likely, you will qualify for much more than you actually want to spend on a home. So a better question is,

How much can I afford for my monthly mortgage payment?

The truth is you are the best judge of what you can afford. Look at what you currently spend on your living situation. Are you comfortable spending more per month? Can you spend more per month? Do you WANT to spend more per month?

What’s in a number?

Your monthly mortgage payment is made up of more than just the money you are borrowing.

It also includes interest, taxes, insurance and, in some cases, mortgage insurance. And keep in mind, in the first years of your mortgage, almost all of the money you pay each month goes towards just interest. Your principle isn’t rapidly paid down until years later.

Once you figure out a solid number of what you can afford for a monthly payment on your end, it is time to discuss that number with your lender to get a good idea of what price range of homes you should be looking at with your Realtor. Your lender will be able to point you in the right direction and make sure you stay within both your budget and qualifying range. After all, no one wants to be house poor.

More numbers?!

REALLY COOL GENERAL RULE OF THUMB For every $10,000 difference in your loan amount that is a $60 per month difference in mortgage payment. So, hypothetically, if a $150,000 loan is a monthly payment of $1,000 a $160,000 loan would be about $1,060.

Pretty cool, huh?

Down Payment Another important number you will need to figure out is how much you can afford for a down payment. You will need at least 3.5% of the purchase price of the home for an FHA loan or 5% of the purchase price for a conventional loan (see the last issue for more info on types of loans!).

Down payment money can help reduce your monthly costs, interest rate, mortgage insurance and overall interest. This money can come directly out of your pocket and, in some situations, can be gifted from a generous family member or friend.

Closing Costs Closing costs are another thing you will want to consider when buying a home as these need to be paid one way or another – either by you or the seller or both. This is something you will discuss with your lender when figuring out how to structure your loan.

Rachel Delzell Licensed Loan Originator Legal Licensing Information:

We will go much more in depth with the topic of closing costs next time where we will debunk the sneaky “no closing cost loan” ads and much more!

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Fairway Independent, NMLS #2289 Rachel Delzell, NMLS #1135841, Iowa #22523

Relax Your Building Experience Kevin and Nicole McGlothlin, with extensive backgrounds in finance and construction, provide each homeowner with a superior home at an incredible value. Their vision gives way by suggesting unique ideas to enhance a floor plan to maximize your dream home. Sundance Homes works hard to “Relax Your Building Experience.”

See our model home at the HBA Home Show Expo 2014 July 14-15, July 19-22, July 26-29

Sundance Homes KEVIN & NICOLE MCGLOTHLIN

PO Box 13245 • Des Moines, IA 50310 • 515.229.0237 • www.sundancehomesia.com

in Bondurant!

Anywhere!

HAVE BUYERS! DUPLEX It’s simple.LOT We are a locally owned

HOME VALUES ARE RISING

Re/max Real Estate Inc. IN Suburban USDA RD AREAS

102 1st St. SE, Bondurant, Iowa 50035

WANT TO SELL?

CALL: 515-669-7355

SE POLK

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Build Now 9772 NE 23rd Ave. Over 1 acre SE Polk Only $27,900

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by Now recommending us to every friend,

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OF OUR COMMISSION TO COMING COMING COMMERCIAL 515-669-7355 SOON YOUR CHARITY! SOON Fastest Grown Townhome Option 2 for Loans Bondurant Option forMitchellville Loans the Option 1 for Loans Homes are3 bringing Have Quality Built Huge Ranch School DistrictNeed in Iowa Acreage Retreat.

SE Polk Schools best retail prices in years!

USDA RD VA Loan FHA Home Mortgage 102 1stListings!

Street SE, USDA Financing 927 10th St. SE, Altoona Extra Lot Possible Buyers!

Call meScores to price yours!

Home Loans Veterans$399,900 Get 100% Loan, Credit from Only $129,900 Bondurant.

Under $180,000 Priced to600 Sell 100% Loan No MI Insurance now only 3.5% down Nothing Down Nothing Down 100% can be gifted by relatives! in Bondurant!

Qualifying Anywhere!

WE WANT TO HELP Anywhere!

YOU SUPPORTEasy LOCAL CHARITIES family member, co-worker or CONTRACT church member that says TERMS “We’re thinking of buying POSSIBLE or selling a home”!

Each office independently owned and operated.

SEE A SOLD SIGN SOONER! HOME VALUES ARE RISING IN USDA RD AREAS

HAVE BUYERS!

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2714 Hickman Rd. Now only $30,000 708 N Ankeny Blvd, Ste B

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Ankeny, IA 50021

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Alex@SignCraftSign.com TERMS 515.635.1001

Save with Low Rates SE Polk Acreage 9950 NE 23rd Ave. 7171 NE 27th Ave. Huge Energy SE Polk over 1 acre 4’ x 8’ Land andRooms, Commercial Only $29,900 Efficient.Yard $259,900 Signs

Mention this coupon for COMING FREE sign or banner setup!

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Townhome SE Polk Schools 927 10th St. SE, Altoona Only $129,900

WANT TO SELL? E s t a t e S i g n S p e c i a l i s t s

Fastest Grown School District in Iowa 102 1st Street SE, Bondurant. $399,900

We will setup your sign image, provide a proof of your first sign and one revision free of charge with your initial order.

Client must provide a vector image of all graphics including maps, logos and other images. Additional charges may apply.

Bondurant Acreage Retreat.

Extra Lot Possible Under $180,000

Vehicle Graphics COMING Storefront Signage SOON Corporate Identity Mitchellville Banners Quality Built Huge Ranch Acrylic USDA Financing Priced to Sell

SEE A SOLD SIGN SOONER! w w w. S i g n C r a f t S i g n . c o m

WE WANT TO HELP YOU SUPPORT LOCAL CHARITIES

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Never a buyer or seller charge of $75 to $500, called a Broker Administrative Fee like most brokers Follow Realty Xperts of Des Moines on Facebook and watch as a new home is built by Candle Homes.

4230 Fleur Drive #2 Des Moines, IA 50321

515-277-7945

Interior framing, canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see but plumbing started.

Great room lives up to name with 20 foot tall vault.

www.realtyxperts.net We offer either full service or limited service.

We can assist you with any of over 3000 homes!

1128 Elder Lane Des Moines

Walkout ranch. This is a quality-built, one-owner home, situated on over half an acre.

Approximately 1232 square feet.

Formal dining area, patio door to a nice size deck. Large kitchen with an eating area, plenty of cabinets, stove and refrigerator.

Hardwood floors under most carpets. Large living room and dining area have cove ceilings.

Lower walkout level.

Just click on the QR code!

Exterior waiting for brick on front. Garage doors soon, along with front door. About 2,430 sf of living area finished. Custom design and built by Candle Homes. Follow us on Facebook at Realty Xperts LLC of Des Moines.

Call Tom Jarshaw 771-2516 or email tomjarshaw@gmail.com

604 Southlawn Circle Ankeny

4031 11th Place Des Moines

3714 Wolcott Avenue Des Moines

Come visit this awesome home and look at how well it has been maintained. Hardwood floors--not laminate--real wood.

Cute deck, garage and much more in Ankeny. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t delay-someone else may beat you to it!

Call Matt Smith 669-8591

WOW! A must see 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home in Shawnee Park.

Lots of updates to this home.

All you have to do is just move in and enjoy. A sharp looking home plus you have a garage!

Call Glen Ballard 707-2915

A must to see is this 4 bedroom, 3 bath home in Des Moines. It is an REO and needs some work but for over 1700 sq ft plus a finished walkout basement, we believe you will find the price agreeable. Priced over $59,000 less than last sale price - you have room to build instant equity. We have quality contractors that can assist with repairs if you wish.

Call 277-7945 Now

We do not charge Broker Administrative Fees to either seller or buyer.

We work with you--not against you--to save you $$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Never a buyer or seller charge of $75 to $500, called a Broker Administrative Fee like most brokers acquire magazine

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Tips for a 5 Beautiful Yard this Summer

By Melissa Peterson of Ted Lare Design Build & Garden Center

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Did your yard look fantastic this spring but it is already starting to suffer from the Iowa summer heat? Follow these five tips to keep your yard looking beautiful and luscious all summer long!

If you want your yard to truly look plush and beautiful all year round, the first step to success is watering during the warmer months when your plants need it. In Iowa we normally have a nice amount of rainfall during the spring months, but typically as we head into late June or early July the rains lessen and it becomes necessary to water our plants and lawns. Run the irrigation or sprinklers on your lawn in the morning to keep a lush green appearance. If your perennials and shrubs start to show signs of distress, such as browning, wilting or curling leaves, they will benefit from a decent watering. When watering plants, water at the base of the plant, making sure to keep the water off the foliage, which can often lead to disease problems. Use a watering wand, which will help to disperse the water evenly around the plants roots.

The second step to a beautiful yard is to feed your plants by applying fertilizer to your lawn, flowers, shrubs and trees during the summer months. Instant impact fertilizers, such as Miracle-Gro, work well when used on pots of flowers to encourage continual and prolific blooms. Longer lasting slow release fertilizers, such as Osmocote, can be used on annuals, perennials and shrubs and will last up to four months. Products like Osmocote will nourish plants and aid in continued growth. Fertilizing your lawn during the summer months will help your lawn to retain a lush green appearance. If you prefer to keep your yard organic, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fret there are plenty of organic fertilizer brands, such as Dr. Earth, that can accomplish these same tasks beautifully.

The third step is to accomplish some mid-summer trimming of any spring blooming shrubs or perennials. As a general rule, most shrubs should be pruned right after they flower. A light trimming of shrubs right after they bloom, will stimulate new growth and often a light reblooming on some varieties. Spring or early summer blooming perennials can also benefit from dead-headingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a term which refers to removing the spent blossoms from the plant. Removing these dead blooms will allow the plant to focus its energy on growth of roots and foliage and enhances the overall appearance of the plant. There are several varieties of perennials that dead-heading will encourage a second flush of blooms, including salvia, hardy geraniums, penstemon, yarrow, campanula, and gaillardia.

The fourth step is remove eye sores from the landscaping beds, such as weeds or grass encroaching in the beds. A general rule when dealing with weeds is to pull when wet, hoe when dry. Weeds come up much easier when pulled after a nice quenching rain. If there is no rain in sight, weeds hacked off just below the surface will shrivel up and die. Take time to edge your beds and remove unwanted grass that may be encroaching into the bed.

Finally, summer is a great time to add some fun and personal accents to your yard. Think about adding a piece of garden art, a fountain, new pots, or a patio set or some colorful pillows. This is the optimum time to add accents to your yard as all plants are at their full capacity and it allows to see the full amount of space available for accent pieces. Most people are amazed at what a difference the details like a sculpture or a bistro set can add to a space. It can really make it feel like your own personal backyard oasis. And remember, take time to enjoy your beautiful yard!

Photos courtesy of Ted Lare Design Build & Garden Center

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Shingles Got ’em.

Siding Got it.

Custom Cabinets Got ’em.

Windows Got ’em.

Ceramic Tile Got it.

Tricycles? ycles?

Don’t got ’em.

You Want It. We’ve Got It. (Almost.)

Homeowners and contractors: If you want to build or improve a home, you want Gilcrest/Jewett’s wide selection of quality materials and products. (But, if you want a birthday present for the kids, we’d suggest shopping elsewhere.)

Gilcrest/Jewett: Building Relationships Since 1856. www.gilcrestjewett.com

Millwork Got it.

Doors Got ’em.

Countertops Got ’em.

Hardware Got it.

Iowa’s exclusive distributor of Windsor Windows & Doors.

Laminate Flooring Got it.

ALTOONA 515-957-0027

CORALVILLE 319-338-0089

MARION 319-377-1593

WAUKEE 515-987-3600

A daily 70 word commentary on the economy authored by Dr. Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D. and available at www.econ70.com seventy words on the economy. daily.

from

APR

Pricey Pads:

24

While new home sales fell in March, they didn’t exactly plunge.

The actual number of new homes sold last month was 36,000 down from a whopping 37,000 in February. While bad weather and lack of lots and credit are part of the reason, so are prices.

The March median new home price was a staggering $290,000, up from $260,000 the month before! To sell more new houses prices must fall.

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Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D. is a nationally acclaimed economist and public speaker specializing in making the arcana and minutia of economics fun, relevant and educational.

Your Roofing Siding Experts Brad VanWeelden has been providing sales and installation of quality exterior products in central Iowa for over 15 years. With specialization in high end roofing and siding, they also offer commercial as well as residential services for construction and additions, windows, skylights, solar, insulation, gutters and leaf guards, painting, and decks. Quality service is the top priority at Brad VanWeelden Company. Their commitment to customer satisfaction has built a reputation of reliability and honesty, earning respect from suppliers, fellow contractors and homeowners.

Brad Van Weelden Company Your roofing and siding experts!

We would like to thank all of our clients for their support in winning the 2014 BBB Integrity Award!

(515) 979-4772 | www.bradvanweelden.com | brad@bradvanweelden.com

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A Cluttered Website Doesn’t Sell

A modern website or social media campaign can be powerhouse tools for real estate agents and construction professionals hammering on ideas to expand their reach and showcase the

Now consider this. If a cluttered home fails to impress buyers in real-world situations, why would an overbearing website or untidy social media pages fare any better in the minds of those making purchasing considerations in the 2010s?

A Move, Inc. article published on Realtor.com speaks to the value of curb appeal, as well as the important role of sellers to help prospects picture themselves inside of the home.

quality of their work for tech-savvy

Without all of our junk.

buyers in the digital age.

User experience is another popular topic of conversation among online publishers these days as it relates to capturing the attention of future buyers – prospective buyers who are turning faster and in greater numbers to the Internet and social media when starting out in search of a new or existing home.

One thing to keep in mind – regardless of whether you’re building a new website or remodeling an existing domain – is how its design and development relates to popular industry discussions centered on modern homes, contemporary interiors and minimalistic lifestyles.

Even if a home for sale is super clean or like brand new, Realtor.com offers a reminder that clearing kitchen counters of non-essential items, ridding the home of outdated books or magazines, cleaning out overfilled closets, and organizing computer or electrical wires are among best practices in terms of making a favorable impression on those invited in.

In that same vein, the front door of a builder’s or real estate agent’s website – open and accessible by clients or prospects 24 hours a day – should be designed with as few barriers to entry as possible, and a coherent flow that draws attention to select features and amenities to naturally coax people into the next room.

In other words, make viewing and navigating your website as intuitive, enjoyable and carefree as possible by avoiding crowded navigation bars, layers upon layers of unnecessary dropdown boxes, or urge to add every single social media icon you’ve ever seen or heard of. Instead, think about how to position visitors so that they are never more than one click away from the most pertinent information on your site – such as your portfolio and contact information, including the most relevant links – and how a plan like that could benefit those you’d like to stick around.

Copy that is straight forward and very much to the point, in lieu of beating around the bush with a bunch of flowery language that doesn’t add much value to readers or to the conversation, is equally as popular in 2014. Perhaps that’s because the ability to capture and hold the attention of targeted audiences on every device from laptops to smartphones has never been more top-of-mind for business decision-makers – as their customers and industry partners delve deeper into the digital age each and every year.

Todd Razor, President Three Razors Media todd@threerazors.com 515-953-8247

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Remember, your website and social media are gateways for clients and prospective customers trying to picture themselves doing business with you. For builders and real estate pros with plans to stay on the cutting edge of marketing their tradecraft, keep in mind while figuring out how to best utilize the square-footage of your digital assets that a cluttered web presence doesn’t sell.

Riverside Casino and Golf Resort, Riverside, Iowa

building strong communities.

S inc e 1 9 5 6

Providing civil engineering and land surveying services to the land development and public infrastructure markets.

Our vision is to positively improve the quality of life for those we impact by applying sound, innovative engineering and business principles while enhancing our earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural resources.

McClure Engineering Co. 1360 NW 121st. Street, Suite A | Clive, Iowa 50325 O 515-964-1229 | F 515-964-2370

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Listing #11436

Current

Inventory

4 BD 3 BA

145 Trillium Drive, Waukee

Ranch Classic Series | 1,533 SF | $295,000

Investing in a home by Ground Breaker Homes comes with the assurance of retaining a residential company that demonstrates a steadfast commitment to homeowners in Greater Des Moines. Our standard floor plans feature high-quality amenities and build-to-order homes are constructed with

Listing #11438

extraordinary attention to detail. From the Style Setter to the Ranch Executive, each Ground Breaker project is competitively priced and includes a comprehensive

4 BD 2.5 BA

1011 NW Abbie Drive, Ankeny Style Setter | 1,748 SF | $239,900

warranty that adds to the peace and security of owning a new home. At Ground Breaker, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll walk you through the process of selecting the right development, the right plan and the right price point to achieve your goals.

Listing #11435

4 BD 3 BA 48 |

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1116 NW Abbie Drive, Ankeny

Ranch Classic Series | 1,533 SF | $285,000

To view photo galleries of these plans and others, please visit www.GroundBreakerHomes.com and go to Home Collections.

Listing #11878

5 BD 3 BA

120 Old Orchard Drive, Norwalk Ranch Designer Series | 1,709 SF | $348,000

Preferred

Lende rs

Chad Sorensen: 515-986-5746 NMLS ID#: 740558 see ad on page 8

Listing #11779

5 BD 4.5 BA

SO

3037 Prairie Rose Drive, Norwalk

Bryan Rowland: 515-457-9533 MLO #: 876365 see ad on page 28

Prairie Setter II | 5,049 SF | $950,000

LD

Kalen Ludwig, REALTOR 速 Certified New Construction Sales Professional 515.402.3169 | Kalen@PeoplesCompany.com

www.PeoplesCompany.com

Listing #11426

4 BD 3 BA

621 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk Style Setter Deluxe | 1,941 SF | $275,900

12119 Stratford Dr, Ste B | Clive, IA 50325 515.309.0703 | info@groundbreakerhomes.com www.GroundBreakerHomes.com acquire magazine

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Pa rt n e r i n g W i t h Jen Stanbrough: 515.371.4814 jen@jenstanbroughrealestate.com

Eric Bokker: 515.554.3742 ericb@mylsb.com, NMLS #203334

Kris McVicker | 515.689.9220 | kris@marckrismh.com 5545 Mills Civic Pkwy | Ste 100 | West Des Moines, IA 50266

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Acquire Magazine Post Office Box 27055 West Des Moines, IA 50265

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Landscaping

Outdoor Living Spaces, Patios, Retaining Walls

Kurtis Wiedmann/Owner 515-971-0408 www.wdsmlawncare.com