Emporia Real Estate Guide

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PUBLISHED BY T E G

A Healthy, Winter-Ready Home

November 2018

Page 3

Energy Savers that Make 'Cents'

AMERICAN Real Estate Business Broker. Kansas State Teachers College double major graduate in Business Management and Economics. If you are looking to buy or sell a business, call me today for a confidential interview.

SOLD

You’ve gone far enough to meet a bargain in this 3 bedroom, double garage with work area. Located on corner lot, Neosho Rapids.

438 Main St., Neosho Rapids 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1080 sqft

Reduced to $59,500

PRIME REAL ESTATE! Located directly across from the Strong City Truck Stop and Rodeo.

401 E. 7th, Strong City, KS 2900 sq ft building with 460 feet of frontage on Highway 50.

$79,500

Formerly the Prairie Fire Inn & Spa, this 20 unit Inn is located in historic Strong City, Kansas. Living quarters also included and features 3 bedrooms and additional office space as well. Some repairs are needed but within 290 ft of frontage on US HWY 50.

301 7th St. Strong City 20 Unit Inn

Reduced to $115,000 C-H-A-R-M With A Capital “See” 3 Bedroom Cottage With 18X24 Master Bedroom.

Updated 1 3/4 Baths, Windows And 50 ft. Deck.

Beautiful Kitchen With Bar Opening In Dining And Living Room. Located In Olpe. Just Listed.

103 EAST ST, OLPE 3 BEDROOMS, 1 3/4 BATHS $130,000

AMERICAN Real Estate

Let KB Thomas Jr.’s 53 years of experience work for you.

Member MLS 4% Real Estate Commission

KB Thomas Jr. - Broker 620-757-8469 • kbthomas.point2agent.com 815 Graham Street •Emporia • 620-342-9500

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NOVEMBER 2018

We get results that move you!

1459 Road 210 • Emporia

The 100 acreage is all fenced and cross fenced with an intermittent running creek and automatic watering system

Beds: 4 Baths: 3 $528,900

1087 RD 240 • Emporia Look out over the flint hills and enjoy entertaining in the open kitchen/ dining/living room that spans the entire front of the home.

Beds: 4 Baths: 5 $469,000

44 Kahola Rd • Council Grove The main floor features great room with vaulted ceiling, lots of natural light from a multi tude of windows.

Beds: 3 Baths: 2 $389,900

203 Road 180 • Emporia Updated ranch country home on 7.2 acres just a short drive fraom Emporia.

Beds: 3 Baths: 2 $204,900

PE

Lot 36 Kahola Rd • Council Grove This beautiful 2 bedroom home with a loft above the garage is the perfect getaway from the fast city life.

Beds: 3 Baths: 1 $325,500

G N I ND

3645 W RD • Madison Country living without gravel. The home showcases Brazilian cherry hardwood floors and granite counters.

Beds: 4 Baths: 4 $319,000

1043 Homewood St • Emporia Home has vaulted ceilings, front and back decks, and lower level patio.

Beds: 5 Baths: 3 $279,900

2034 Coronado Ave • Emporia This NW home with quality, location, updates, and functional space!

Beds: 3 Baths: 4 $259,000

3007 S Parkway Ct • Emporia Beautiful ranch style home located on a great cul-de-sac street with Schmidt Cabinetry !

Beds: 3 Baths: 2 $244,900

1961 Burlingame RD • Emporia Suburban showplace in a great location! Located on blacktop only a few minutes from Emporia.

Beds: 4 Baths: 3 $234,900

Lot 80 Kahola Rd • Council Grove In move in ready condition cabin and ready for you!

Beds: 2 Baths: 1 $219,900

121 Kahola Rd • Saffordville Living room with vaulted ceilings, wood burning stove and a multitude of windows with lake view.

Beds: 3 Baths: 1 $210,000

2601 Apple Drive • Emporia This charming ranch home has vaulted ceilings, plenty of cabinets in the kitchen, and a unique movie theater.

Beds: 4 Baths: 3 $203,900

406 Cherry • Americus One of a kind rustic lodge inside and out with upper floor master suite .

Beds: 3 Baths: 2 $199,900

1520 West ST • Emporia A brand new Chefs kitchen with a large dining room, custom outdoor bar and kitchen/ bar area.

Beds: 5 Baths: 3 $199,000

1790 Road P5 • Emporia Large bedrooms, plenty of storage, main floor laundry, family room with woodburning fireplace.

Beds: 3 Baths: 3 $189,900

486 Road P • Olpe Beautiful country views with on 9 acres just 2.5 miles from Olpe Beds: 4 Baths: 1 $179,900

175 Kahola Rd • Council Grove Tree shaded lot on the south side has been redone inside with newer kitchen cabinets.

Beds: 2 Baths: 1 $170,000

2660 Westridge DR • Emporia Over 2900 sq feet of finished space in this large contemporary Beds: 3 Baths: 4 $169,900

2103 Hwy 56 • Reading Brand new roof and vinyl siding, main floor laundry and spacious kitchen. 6.63 acres Beds: 4 Baths: 2 $169,900

PE 601 Orange ST • Americus Check out this historic all stone 2 story home just listed sitting on over 14 acres!

Beds: 4 Baths: 1 $149,900

1605 Sherwood Way • Emporia Includes newer windows and newer exterior siding. 8 acres Beds: 4 Baths: 2 $139,900

3353 N Hwy 99 • Admire Modern farmhouse with updated kitchen and bath. 8 acres.

Beds: 6 Baths: 2 $149,900

PE 907 Fifth ST • Americus The completely remodeled house sits on a large corner lot and has a double car garage.

Beds: 3 Baths: 1 $109,900

410 Locust ST • Americus This house features a large bonus family room, partially finished basement, and large deck off the back Beds: 3 Baths: 2 $109,000

G N I ND

805 Waverly Way • Emporia Two decks, double car garage with workshop, additional shed, and large fenced yard.

Beds: 4 Baths: 3 $129,900

1026 Burns St • Emporia Fenced yard, oversized single car garage, wood-air fireplace and stubbed plumbing in basement for a third bath.

349 Cherry St • Cottonwood Falls Property has beautiful hardwood floors through out and features original wood work .

Beds: 4 Baths: 2 $102,500

809 Dove Run • Emporia New interior paint, new ceramic flooring, oversize single garage and a large fenced yard.

Beds: 3 Baths: 2 $99,900

Beds: 3 Baths: 2 $119,000

G N I ND

1727 E Wilman Ct • Emporia Quiet tree lined street near the Country Club and ESU - great neighborhood Beds: 2 Baths: 1 $103,500

Ek Real Estate 620-342-3366

325 Garfield St • Emporia This ranch style home with remodeled kitchen and fenced yard.

Beds: 2 Baths: 2 $84,900

1021 Washington ST • Emporia Beautiful, fully remodeled property right across from Walnut Elementary School Beds: 3 Baths: 1 $78,900

114 S Neosho St • Emporia Updates including the roof, electrical, windows, new flooring, and koi pond.

Beds: 3 Baths: 2 $76,900

Deb Williams

Jeff Williams

Bre Williams

341-7653

341-7653

341-7653

Maurice Schmidt

Jo Sosa

Tasha Sailer

757-3800

803-8333

Cory Kemper

Maria Salomon

Justin Arb

785-230-8156

757-6678

794-0648

366-3366

Visit ekhomes.com today for more details.

Jeff Kitselman

757-6833

Jessica Orton

794-7949

Aaron Sewell

366-0793

Austin Orton

794-7948

Jan Utech

343-5100

Lacie Hamlin

481-0213

Lynn A. Cunningham

Justin Tabares

Tenisha Baylor

208-610-7503

794-4010

344-2197

NOVEMBER 2018

PAGE 3

A HEALTHY, WINTER-READY HOME room, a fresh-air skylight can help address air quality concerns, and some models offer smartphone connectivity to open and close the skylight and even raise or lower blinds with a few quick taps of the finger. Learn more at whyskylights.com.

Family Features

When chilly weather arrives and the days get shorter, chances are good you'll spend the majority of your days indoors. Before you start your hibernation, it's a good idea to ensure your home is up to the task. Put your well-being at the top of the list with these ideas to help ensure a health-conscious home.

Keep out the cold

Encourage better air quality

When the house is closed up to keep out the cold, you may be trapping in undesirable air pollutants. A well-sealed house may not have the best circulation, and that's the ideal environment for allergens to accumulate.

A thorough cleaning is the first step toward better air quality. Vacuum all carpets, including under furniture and around baseboards. Be sure to launder linens that aren't typically part of your regular washing routine.

When opening windows isn't comfortable during cold winter weather, letting the sunshine in can still help to improve indoor air quality. A study by the University of Oregon's Biology and the Built Environment Center showed rooms with increased sunlight have fewer viable bacteria.

"Until now, daylighting design has been primarily about visual comfort or circadian health, but now we can say daylighting influences air quality," said Kevin Van Den Wymelenberg, co-director of the BioBE Center and co-au-

thor of the study.

Let in light

Natural light plays an important role in overall health, and reduced daylight in the winter months can have a big impact on productivity and sleep, according to a recent survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of Velux. For example, nearly two-thirds of respondents said they believe daylight affects their productivity and mood.

Light is also an important cue to the body's circadian clock, and proper exposure to natural light during the day can help support better sleep when darkness falls.

What's more, sunlight is a natural antidepres-

sant, and there is ample scientific evidence that associates daylight with better health and quality of life, such as improved mood, less fatigue and reduced eyestrain.

It may be tempting to keep the drapes closed when it's blustery outside to ward off a draft, but with well-sealed windows, there's no reason to block that all-important natural light. In rooms with ample natural light available, take advantage, especially in the morning when exposure to daylight can benefit your circadian rhythm.

However, not every room is situated to maximize your access to natural light, and that's when

you can get creative. One solution is skylights, which add natural light to virtually any space. An option like a Sun Tunnel

Skylight offered by Velux Skylights lends brightness to even the smallest spaces, like a bathroom or hallway. For a larger

There actually is some truth to the old wives' tales associating cold with getting sick. The viruses that cause colds and the flu thrive in cooler temperatures, for example. This means that, at least indirectly, a cold environment may indeed make you sick.

To ward off a chill in your home, safeguard against drafts around windows and doors. If seasonal weather-proofing is impractical, consider temporary solutions like draft stoppers or mats you can place at the base of doors. Add insulation, if needed, in areas that commonly release a significant amount of heat, such as the attic and garage.

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NOVEMBER 2018

Energy Savers that Make 'Cents' Family Features

A home that operates efficiently isn't just better for the environment. Ensuring your home systems are as efficient as possible can also help reduce the financial burden of maintaining your home throughout the year.

These tips from Gary White with JCPenney Home Services can serve as areas of focus for lowering your energy bills and lessening your appliances' negative impact on the environment.

Water Heaters

The cost of heating water for bathing, laundry and kitchen use is a common home energy drain, so it's an area that deserves attention when you're looking to upgrade for efficiency. To reduce energy use from your hot water heater, try taking shorter showers and switching to cold water for some washing machine wash and rinse cycles.

“I do not recommend putting insulating blankets on hot water heaters,” said Jerry Marshall, owner/inspector for Homes Inspections of Kansas.

“Insulation isn’t needed on modern-day hot water heaters, which are very efficient.”

Besides being unnecessary, insulation also conceals the age, rust and controls on a hot water heater, Marshall said. He also recommends homeowners open the drain valve and flush hot water heaters at least once per year. It is especially important to do so for those residents who live in the country because of the type of water they have.

Heating and Cooling

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, as much as 40 percent of a home's energy expenses come from the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, also known as the heating and cooling system.

Like appliances and other mechanical features of your home, over time, the heating and cooling system becomes less efficient. Regular seasonal service like appropriately changing out the air filter can help ensure your system performs at its best, but once its life expectancy has passed, a new unit is usually the more cost-effective solution in the long run.

Understanding your options is important because these systems represent a meaningful investment. There are a lot of

potentially overwhelming options and you want to be sure you get the right system for your home. A consultation with an expert, such as those you can find at JCPenney Home Services, can help you determine the proper size and functions necessary to effectively manage your home's climate, as well as assist in exploring the latest technologies and products. For example, heat pumps, which were once reserved for more moderate climates, are now a cost-efficient solution for homes where temperatures dip lower.

Another option that is relatively new but growing in popularity is known as a mini-split system. These systems let you customize the temperature settings in various spaces, enhancing personal comfort and allowing you to focus your energy use on the parts of your home that need it most. Learn more about these and other energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions at jcpenneyhomeser vices. com.

Thermostats

While ser vicing or replacing an HVAC system may be the obvious change when it comes to conserving energy, you can also see reductions by using an upgraded thermostat, such as a "smart" or connected model.

These devices can help you monitor the temperature setting in your home while maximizing efficiency. For example, a connected thermo-

Home Inspections of Kansas Dream Home or Nightmare?

What is that smell?

Could it be mold?

Radon and Mold Inspection Know what you are buying, have it inspected by an experienced inspector.

Jerry Marshall

620-342-5841 Owner/Inspector Cell: 620-481-5501

stat that's synced to your smartphone may allow you to adjust temperature settings when away from home. This way, if you forget to bump the air conditioner up a few degrees while you're gone more than a few hours, you can log-in remotely and set an appropriate temperature.

Weatherproofing

A great deal of energy is lost through cracks, holes and faulty seals. Take time to assess all windows, doors and openings for air leaks, adding caulking or weather stripping where ne e de d. D on't overlook culprits like openings around lighting and plumbing fixtures, switch plates and other electrical elements. Also assess potential losses from the fireplace, attic, garage and crawl spaces, where it's common that less attention is given to thorough sealing, and determine whether additional insulation can help contain energy. “I’ve looked at over 5,000 houses,” home inspector Jerry Marshall said. “I’ve seen a little bit of everything -- my favorite thing is helping firsttime home buyers.”

Marshall said he tries to help first-time home buyers understand that they are responsible for making the hard decisions on how to maintain their home. Some of those tips include keeping windows locked -- especially on older homes -- to avoid air leaks.

Take Control of Your Climate

Managing your home's climate control is typically no small task or small expense. These options offer flexibility and efficiency.

Heat pumps pull from the ground or outside air temperature to both heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer.

Since heat pumps move heat instead of generating it, they're energy-efficient year-round.

Hybrid systems or combinat ion systems combine elements of both a furnace and heat pump.

The more efficient heat pump runs until the outside air temperature falls below a certain level, at which point the system automatically switches the heat source to the furnace.

This option is more expensive up front, but can generate significant savings in terms of monthly utility bills long-term.

Ductless systems are a flexible, efficient choice for homeowners looking for simple solutions.

These systems can be easily mounted on the wall or ceiling, and don't require ductwork, making them ideal for a converted attic space or room addition.

Understanding HVAC Efficiency Ratings

An HVAC system can be rated in a number of different ways. While some of these ratings may be confusing, it is helpful to understand what they mean.

AFUE: An Annua l Fuel Utilizat ion Ef f icienc y (AFUE) rating is important if you are purchasing an oi l or gas furnace. The AFUE r at i n g m e a s u r e s t h e amount of fuel used to heat your home against the amount of fuel wasted. A higher rating in-

dicates a more efficient system. The more efficient your system, the less fuel it takes to heat your home, which translates into lower heating bills during the winter.

SEER: The higher the Seasonal Energy Efficienc y R atio (SEER), the more efficient your system and the less it w i l l c o st to he at and cool your home. Federa l regu lat ions re quire all new HVAC systems to have a SEER rating of 13 or higher.

HSPF: The Heating S easonal Performance Factor (HSPF) measures the efficiency of a heat pump when it is used to heat a home. A higher rating indicates greater efficienc y and greater monthly savings on energ y bills. New HVAC units are re quire d to have a rating of 7.7 or higher.

NOVEMBER 2018

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CREATE AN ACCESSIBLE LIFESTYLE Enhance independence with mobility in mind

Family Features

If you're like the majority of the population, mobility is something you take for granted. However, once you or a loved one encounters an illness or disability that results in dependence on a wheelchair, your perspective is likely to change dramatically.

Mobility is a major factor in a person's independence, but when illness or injury hinders free movement, even a simple task like running to the store becomes a challenge. Fortunately, there are numerous options you can explore to improve mobility and accessibility if you or a loved one becomes reliant on a wheelchair or other assisted mobility.

Ramps in Place of Stairs

Safety is a primary concern for someone whose mobility is limited. Even minor falls can cause significant injuries, particularly for seniors whose bones tend to be more fragile. When a loved one begins experiencing trouble with the steps, a ramp is a good solution.

In fact, ramps aren't just for those who are reliant on a wheelchair or other motorized device like a scooter. They are also a good solution for someone who uses a cane or walker, or someone who experiences pain or difficulty maintaining balance on the stairs.

Accessible Vehicles and Parking

Getting out of the house is an important way to help someone whose mobility is compromised continue to feel connected to the larger world, and practically speaking, even if they're not physically up to social engagements, chances are that doctor's appointments will still be a necessity. However, parking limitations cause major challenges for wheelchair users.

Not only is getting in and out of the vehicle a chore, 74 percent of people have personally seen a handicap accessible parking space being improperly used, according to a survey by BraunAbility.

As a leading manufacturer of wheelchair accessible vehicles and wheelchair lifts, its Save My Spot campaign works to educate the public about the

meaning and importance of handicap accessible parking. In addition to understanding and educating others about the proper usage of handicap accessible parking, chair users may benefit from wheelchair accessible vehicles that provide maximum maneuverability, such as the BraunAbility Pacifica, which delivers the most interior cabin space and widest doorway and ramp for ease of entry and exit.

Hand Rails and Grab Bars

Hand rails add another measure of safety in the home. They can add stability and support on staircases, ramps and other walkways, but they're also beneficial in areas like the bathroom. A rail or grab bar near the toilet can help steady someone raising or lowering to use the facilities. Similarly, rails in or adjacent to the shower can assist with safe transitions into and out of the stall. Remember to follow all manufacturer instructions for installing rails to ensure they provide adequate support and can bear the weight of the user.

Bathroom Modifications

Proper hygiene goes a long way toward promoting overall wellness and independence, but a person with limited mobility may struggle using the features of a standard

bathroom. In addition to safety rails and grab bars, devices such as shower stools and raised toilet seats can provide needed support. Depending on your circumstances, it may be necessary to consider renovations to include a roll-in tub or seated shower and a vanity with a counter at an accessible height.

Wider Doors and Hallways

While it's not always possible to widen doors and hallways, this is an important consideration for someone who is heavily reliant on a wheelchair or other motorized device. If the chair can't clear hallways and maneuver around corners, a person's access to the home is severely limited, sometimes to the point of needing to

find new housing accommodations. When considering whether the doors and hallways will meet your needs, remember to take into account any accessories or equipment, such as an oxygen tank, that may affect the chair's turn radius.

Find more ideas to promote independence and mobility at braunability. com/savemyspot.

5 Facts About Handicap-Accessible Parking

Handicap-accessible parking plays a critical role in giving chair users independence and mobility, making it important to understand the rules of the parking lot. To bring awareness to the challenges wheelchair users face, BraunAbility offers these reminders:

1. The striped lines next to a handicap-accessible parking space indicate it is reserved for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. These spaces are wider than regular handicap accessible parking spaces, offering room for people to safely lower a ramp and enter and exit their vehicles.

2. There is a difference between handicap accessible parking for cars and wheelchair-accessible vans. When the parking sign says, "Accessible Vans," it is reserved for wheelchair-accessible vehicles only. Van accessible spaces are easily identified by a striped access aisle on the passenger side.

3. Some people have hidden disabilities, and it may not be visibly apparent that they need a handicap-accessible spot. Not all people who require

handicap parking access are reliant on wheelchairs.

These spots are also intended for use by people with disabilities such as deafness or a recent injury.

4. Businesses are required to meet a quota for handicap accessible spots.

The number of handicap accessible parking spaces required depends on the total number of parking spaces in the lot, but at least one in every six handicap accessible spaces must be designated for a wheelchair accessible vehicle, according to the American Disabilities Act. 5. Wheelchairs continue to increase in size, requiring more room to maneuver in and out of vehicles, and therefore need extra space in a parking spot for the wheelchair user to safely access a fully deployed ramp.

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NOVEMBER 2018

E x pa n d Yo u r Kit chen HOW

SPACE-SAVING

Family Features

Your kitchen is the heart of your home. It's a pl a c e w he re f am i ly and friends gather. It's also a space where you may seem to need more space, w hether you're m a k i ng bre a k f a s t for t he k ids or host ing a big dinner party.

Us i n g i n n o v a t i v e wall-mount door hardware, you can unlock your kitchen's potential by freeing up the "real estate" traditional swinging doors take up. Due to their unique space-saving possibilities, versatility and aesthetics, wallmount sliding doors can make your kitchen more open and inviting.

A st andard hinged door consumes 10-14 square feet of floor space to swing open and shut, putting kitchen space at a premium. Single or converging wall-mount sliding doors allow you to utilize this floor space for kitchen furnishings, storage, extra mingling ro om for guests and more. They also give kitchens a more spacious look and can enhance your home's design flow, making it more welcoming and facilitating movement between rooms, which is essential for gatherings and larger families with children.

To ma x i m i z e you r kitchen's footprint and opt i m i z e f u n c t i on a l ity, an option like wallmount door hardware from Johnson Hardware can provide a new world of architectural possibilities for your kitchen, regardless of size or layout. Ideal for wider kitchen entr yways, converging wall-mount door hardware allows doors to glide smoothly

SLIDING

DOOR

HARDWARE

CAN

HELP

as they open whenever you want a free flow for entertaining or closed for privacy during meal preparation.

C onverging do ors can add sophistication or create a cozy feel, depending on the hardware configuration and door style you choose. Available with or without fascia in either clear satin or bronze anodized aluminum, the U.S.-made hardware and track exceed ANSI safety standards and can successfully complete 100,000 op e n i ng and cl o s i ng cycles. You can also add your own valance to match the door material and trim.

Wall-mounted sliding doors also work well for kitchen pantries and large recessed shelving areas where you want to conceal clutter and ensure clean, streamlined spaces. With Johnson's array of hardware configurations, you can create personalized looks that integrate the door designs and materials you desire with options for doors up to 125 pounds, which are equipped with w a l l - m o u nt e d j u mp pro of a luminum b ox tracks and adjustable door hangers for easy installation, as well as options up to 400 pounds, featuring wall-mounted, heavy-gauge I-beam tracks and smooth-rolling, ball-bearing fourwheel hangers.

Installing wall-mount sliding door hardware in your kitchen - and beyond - can be an easy yet high-impact improvement that reduces space constraints while adding warmth, functionality and appeal to your home. For more information, visit johnsonhardware.com.

TEG

NOVEMBER 2018

PAGE 7

5 Steps to Incorporate Universal Design Family Features

As more homeowners opt to remodel their current homes for accessibility and safety, those concerns are taken into consideration especially for kitchens or bathrooms.

Special considerations often should be made for those falling in the Baby Boomer age group, who especially should take into account the accessibility of their homes and improvements that can be made.

Incorporate universal design strategies into your next remodeling project with this five-step guide from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), which offers certification in universal design to provide contractors with the knowledge and training to ensure accessibility in kitchen and bathroom designs.

1. Understand Your Needs

Before starting any remodeling project, take the time to define your needs. Ask simple questions such as: • How do you live in your current home?

• What health issues current and future should be considered?

• How can a remodel help make your space safer and easier to use?

2. Identify Structural Mobility Changes

Mobility addresses the

ability to move freely in a space. While mobility issues can impact older adults, it is not limited to only the elderly. While you might not need mobility assistance today, take a walk through your home and identify structural items that should be addressed, such as: Doorways • Widening doorways to 32-36 inches so walkers, wheelchairs or even large household items may easily move through • Removing thresholds that may create a tripping hazard Hallways • Expanding hallway widths to 36-42 inches • Well-lit hallways can improve safety Clear Space • Incorporating clear space, especially in front of kitchen appliances • Best practices suggest clear space of 30-by48 inches to allow for easy access

3. Safety First

Stairs pose a considerable hazard for those with decreased mobility. Ensure the first level of your home provides space for sleeping, eating and has at least one full bathroom.

Other safety considerations include: • Incorporating non-slip flooring surfaces • Removing the need to go up or down stairs • Creating well-lit rooms

4. Kitchen Updates for Ease of Use Cabinets and counter heig hts, as wel l as t he lo cat ion of appliances, can improve the cooking experience.

O t her che ck list items include: • Dishwashers in d r aw e r u n i t s e l i m inate the need to bend over when l o a d i n g or u n l o a d ing * Push button controls for d i shw a sh e rs for easier use * R e f r i g e r at o r s w i t h drawer unit options or side-by-side models * Ovens and microwaves pl ace d in t he w a l l at appropr i at e heights

5. Bathroom Best Practices

Adjusting counter and toilet heights are two ways to make bathrooms more accessible. Wallhung toilets should be approximately two inches higher. A first floor or main floor bathroom should incorporate: • St r u c tu r a l br a c i ng around the tub, shower and toilet for grab bars • Walk-in tub or curbless stand-up shower with no threshold • Levered handles for faucets • Adjustable showerhead For more information or ideas to incorporate universal design, visit NARI.org.

Make Power Tool Safety Part of Your Remodeling Plan Family Features

When it's time to take on a new project, both DIY-inclined homeowners and contractors alike must c ons i d e r many components to successfully complete the task, from design plans and materials to the proper tools needed. For simple projects like installing new light fixtures as well as more complicated projects such as refurbishing an outdated bathroom, power tools can be helpful throughout the process.

Once all the items on the checklist are accounted for and there's a plan in place, the next step to consider is an important one: safety. While obvious concepts like electrical safety are typically followed without hesitation, some crucial details don't receive the same caution, such as safe handling of batteries.

Many cordless power tools use lithium-ion batteries for improved efficiency, energy storage capacity, durability, versatility and portability, but they need to be handled properly. Prior to operating a battery-powered tool, consider these tips from the experts at the Power Tool Institute, a leading voice on power tool safety issues and standards for the industry.

Selection and Use:

• Lithium-ion batteries pack more energy than pr ior te chnolog ies, which means they can do more work, but there's also greater potential for damage when misused.

• Batteries are not interchangeable, so it's important to only use batteries and chargers from the original power tool manufacturer.

• Original manufacturer batteries are engineered to communicate and work with s p e c i f i c to ol s an d chargers. These components, as a system, also go through a rigorous certification and testing process - a requirement that doesn't t y pi c a l l y app l y t o third-party batteries.

• Substandard aftermarket and counterfeit batteries may come with additional hazards that result in fire, property damage or personal injury.

• If a battery is damaged, do not use it.

• Never immerse your tool, battery pack or charger in fluid or allow a fluid to enter it, including corrosive or conductive fluids, such as seawater, certain industrial chemicals and bleach or products containing

bleach. Fluid entry can increase the chances of shor t-circuiting, w h i ch c ome s w it h risks of overheating, fire or explosion that can lead to personal injur y and property damage.

Transportation and Disposal:

• Always transport and store lithium-ion batteries as instructed in the owner's manual.

• Avoid contact with metal objects, such as

keys, coins, screws, nails and liquids.

• When disposing a lithium-ion battery, take it to a local recycling center or place it in a receptacle designed for batteries. Throw-

ing it away in the trash or municipal recycling can cause a fire hazard.

— For more safe battery practices, including use, storage and disposal, visit takechargeofyourbattery.com.

PAGE 8

LIVING IN COLOR

Family Features

When picking a color for cabinetry, personality and lifestyle are essential considerations. Gray and white cabinets are options for the modern active living lifestyle, whereas green and blue tones may work better for a more eclectic existence.

Whichever way you go, colored cabinetry is more than just a trend: it's a design approach that is here to stay. That's why careful planning is necessary when you set out to redesign the kitchen. After all, this essential living space is an area where you spend plenty of time, so it should feature visual elements and colors you find appealing.

White kitchen cabinets have dominated the market for many years. White cabinetry is constant, safe and classic. However, reports from designers and data on market buying trends are showing a slight shift in painted cabinetry design from classic white to pops of color.

"We know kitchen cabinetry is an ever-evolving dynamic, but we also believe certain trends are more constant and everlasting," said Angela O'Neill, director of marketing and advertising at Wellborn Cabinet. "We trust consumers and we believe they have spoken and have spoken very loudly in regard to painted cabinetry."

The current styling trend, reflected in Wellborn Cabinet's latest colors, is a marriage of traditional and contemporary finishes, materials and fabrics equating to a classic, timeless design.

Beloved white is now making way for trending warmer tones featuring shades of gray, green and blue.

NOVEMBER 2018

A Calming Effect

Letting your personality show through with color in the kitchen doesn't have to mean going outlandishly bold. Paint hues like aqua, mint and olive can all set the stage for a calm, inviting atmosphere. Each of these shades provides a mild taste of colored cabinetry, imparting an effect that is subtle but bold enough to make its presence known.

Mink Gray

Exploring shades of gray is another way to develop a unique look. Some shades result in a calm, tranquil effect. However, if you're looking for a more dominant color, an option like Mink Gray from Wellborn Cabinet gives the feel of a much warmer space. Minimalists swoon over this classic yet clean gray because it isn't overpowering, and the timeless color adds to the transitional styling of cabinetry.

It All Started with White

It's true that white cabinetry set the pace for painted cabinetry, and it's likely to remain a popular option for homeowners. Remember, though, that not all whites are the same and different shades can elicit a different design motif entirely. Cabinets in shades of white are enduring and versatile, appearing in cottage, traditional and even modern kitchens.

Also remember that although it's simple, there's nothing dull about white cabinetry. Embrace the classic white spacious kitchen in your home but take it up a notch with brass lanterns, a round dining table and fabriccovered chairs.

Find more inspiration and planning tools to create the contemporary kitchen of your dreams at wellborn.com.

Choose the Right Cabinet Color

Once you've made the decision to add colored cabinets to the kitchen, there's an obvious next question: which color? With so many options to choose from, you may need to answer some basic questions to narrow down the field.

Bold vs. Subtle

If you're looking for a dramatic change, a bold approach may be the perfect solution. Just remember that a bold space can border on overly bold. It needs to be a color and shade that you will continue to enjoy over time. On the other hand, if you're set on adding color but not sure something so vibrant will do, a softer shade of that color may offer a more subtle solution.

All Over vs. Accent

Consider whether your vision calls for paint on all

of your kitchen cabinetry, or if you're simply looking to create a standout feature. A color that looks terrific as a focal point may overwhelm if it's applied throughout the room, so evaluate which of the options you're weighing is best suited to the use you have in mind.

Fit Within the Home

In many homes, the design style flows from one room to the next. It's important when making a major change like colored cabinets to understand how the new style will fit with the rest of the house. For example, whether it will complement or contrast, and if it contrasts, ensure that's the look you're truly going for.

how you'll complete the room once the cabinetry is installed. Think about the rest of the woodwork, other finishes like backsplash and flooring, and dining furniture in the space. Also consider your appliances and any decorative items you may wish to add. Ensure the color you're considering will fit with the other elements. If it doesn't, you may have to consider upgrading those features to achieve a cohesive look.

If you're still having trouble narrowing down your selection, many designers recommend selecting an inspiration piece and designing the rest of the room, including the cabinetry, to complement it.

Completing the Design

Another often-overlooked consideration is

TRI-COUNTY

906 Commercial St. • Emporia, KS

620.342.0022

REAL ESTATE

www.farmandhomecompanies.com

(620) 341-0838 E-Mail: carmenymackey@gmail.com www.zillow.com on MLS

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520 W. 2nd, Lebo • 3 bedroom, 1 bath unfinished basement, corner lot, 1 car attached garage. $118,900

1920 Road G ~ $385,000

2021 Road C ~ $239,900

2055 Prairie Ln ~ $229,900

3501 W. 21st ~ $216,000

2068 350 Rd ~ $174,900

811 Waverly Way ~ $145,000

1238 Santa Fe ~ &119,900

812 Dove Run~ $119,900

1223 West St ~ $114,900

4 bed, 3 ½ bath on 6 acres

3 bed, 2 ½ bath, new kitchen

Nice 3 bed, 1 ½ bath

PRICE REDUCED — 131 E Dayton, Burlingame, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths with full basement and 2 car detached garage. $89,500

$167,500

3 bed, 2 bath, 3+acres

Spacious 4 bed, 2 bath

3 bed, 2 bath, 6 car garage!

4 bed, 2 ½ bath & bsmt

New price ~ 3 bed, 1 ½ bath

NEW — 2042 W. Eighth St., Emporia

2 bedrooms, 1 bath w/ 952 square feet w/carport. $94,000

1321 Washington ~ $95,000

201 W. 5th, Lebo - The Jack Allegre home is for sale with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths with full basement, 2 car attached garage on nice shaded corner lots.

5 bed, 1 bath on 10 acres

1791 27th Road, Waverly, Connected to the Reaper Road property, but will sell seperate. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, attached garage on 4.3 acres. $87,000

Just listed ~ Updated 3 bed

Lots of potential ~ 3 bed, 2 bath

929 Garfield ~ $99,500

2028 Greenbriar ~ $89,000

1731 E. Wilman ~ $74,800

725 Sherman ~ $53,900

3500 Windsor Cir ~ $49,500

Nice 2 bdrm, 1 bath

Price Reduced ~ 2 bdrm

2 bed, 2 ½ bath Condo

3.5 acre building lot

T C O N T R A CG PENDIN 309 Kansas, Olpe, 3 bedrooms, 2 bath ranch styhle home with full basement

and attached garage. 1248 square feet with back deck and fenced in backyard.

$149,000

C T 4 bedroom, 2 bath home 104 E BROADWAY, T R Aremodeled O NCompletely CLEBO with 1 car attached garage on corner lots.

N I P E N D G$169,800

124 N CEDAR, LEBO 2 bedroom, 1 bath ranch home that has had complete interior remodel with open flow concept and more. 1175 square feet w/ attahced garage and full basement. $128,000

LAST LEBO LAKE LOT AVAILABLE 9 Acres overlooking Lebo City Lake, great building site opportunity. $48,900 NEW — 110 ACRES AT 1161 20TH ROAD, C T BURLINGTON, all Pasture N T RtheAhome for cattle. DoesCnotOinclude and outbuildings. PRICE PENDING REDUCED TO $1850/ACRE 320 ACRES, FALL RIVER, has cattle on it and lots of trees with hunting potential. $1500/ACRE 1459 ROAD 210, EMPORIA, 97 fenced acres with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths ranch with full finished basement built 2001 and 2 outbuildings. $528,900 Tri County Real Estate is here to list your property.

We also offer you personal service in finding the right property for you. Give Carmen or one of her agents a call TODAY!

310 Dorothy, Olpe, This brick ranch style home has 1550 square feet with

2 bedrooms, 2 baths on main floor. Full basement w/another room for potential bedroom or office w/full bath. Large back deck, nice quiet lot, attahced garage and much more! $199,900

705 SYLVAN ST., EMPORIA, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths w/ 1302 square feet. $75,000

Jackie Lutz

794-0646

John Paul Sandstrom

481-4317

Becky Baumgardner

366-0048

Kristie Arndt

366-3560

Judy Turner

344-6165

318 COMMERCIAL STREET, EMPORIA, This commercial building was remodeled in 2011, with roof overlay too, that features open floor space and approximate 2250 square feet. PRICE AT $87,800. Call Victor to view this property.

CONTRACT PENDING - 3519 W. 21ST AVENUE Emporia - 4 bedrooms, 2 baths completely remodeled raised ranch home located in NW Emporia. $222,250

Norma Watson

366-0875

Rene Tovar

481-3430

Ali Aceves

481-6858

NEW — CONTRACT PENDING - 9466 W. 333RD, LEBO 2 bedroom, 1 bath log home with basement and garage on 26 acres with pond and outbuildings. $150,000

Crystal Aceves

757-5538

Jerry Olmsted

757-8853 Broker

FARM & HOME REAL ESTATE

Email:

realestate@farmandhomecompanies.com

Carmen Y. Mackey, Broker/Owner ............Cell 620-341-0838 Victor Edelman, Associate Broker ..............620-366-0339 Dwayne Coble, Salesperson/Auctioneer...620-794-2061 Office: ..............................................................620-256-6993

Gail Hancock

757-3906

Karen Whitmore

340-5222

Chuck Clark

481-0277

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