A SK THE EXPERT REAL ESTATE Does completely renovating a home always add value?
One would think that a fully updated home would make it worth significantly more than one that is in original condition, but that isn’t always the case. The question is, are all updates equal? I have seen many homes that were updated to the point that every bit of original character was completely stripped away, and in the process of the renovation, the home lost its soul. If the home is located in an older neighbourhood, the buyers looking in that particular area may be expecting a certain “look and feel” and if the renovation was too much of a departure from the expected, the seller may have shot himself or herself in the foot. On the contrary, I have seen many homes that were completely original at the time of the sale, and of course there are some buyers that wouldn’t touch it with a ten foot pole, while there are others who are incredibly excited to make it their own and they will pay top dollar for it (and if the home is impeccably maintained, it sometimes sells for not much less than what a fully updated home in the same area may go for). Keep in mind that some buyers would rather pay a premium to know what they are getting, thus an original home in good condition is very appealing to some buyers. The perception of a home that has been updated just prior to selling it wreaks of a “cheap flip” which often sells for less than the sellers anticipated. Another important thing to remember in real estate is that just because you wouldn’t pay more than a certain price for a property doesn’t mean that someone else won’t. Everyone has a different perspective, and most people, even Realtors, have a different opinion of the property’s true value. If a home has been recently updated, very good records regarding the updates will substantiate its value.
Julie D. Martin
The Red Carpet Crew
WINDOW TREATMENTS I just moved into a new home and need window treatments throughout the entire house. I’m intimidated, where do I begin?
Outfitting your home with all new window treatments can feel like a daunting task, but we are here to help! If you have not bought new blinds or shades in the last 10+ years you may be surprised at how many options are now available! I like to start by explaining there are really two different types of treatments. Horizontals, anything that the blind can be lowered, we can still see through it, we can close the vanes or louvers and have full privacy, or we can raise the blind completely. Think of products like banded shades, horizontal sheers, shutters or faux woods. Alternatively, we have products that are either up, or down with the options of being light filtering or room darkening. Think of roller shades, roman shades, woven woods and more! We suggest to start by visiting our showroom at 299 Manitou Drive to view all of the full size displays with the opportunity to try the different operating systems available. Bringing rough measurements (width x height) with you to the showroom allows us to start discussing pricing. We have a wide range of products and suppliers in different price points so we can outfit your home while sticking to your budget for your project. We also offer complimentary in home consultations with our very talented and experienced designer. We can help make selections, suggest colours to coordinate with your furnishings and can ensure we are sticking to your budget while still achieving the look you are after. Visit our showroom to see the latest trends in blinds, shades, drapery, and shutters with full operable displays and the very best in customer service. Check out our Google Reviews!
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