HomeBuilders 2026

HOME BUILDERS

Edition The Newport Plain Talk

2026

Advice for

How to establish

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Prevent

Variables to consider

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BUILDING YOUR NEW HOME

PEST PROBLEMS

A BUDGET FOR HOME RENOVATION

BEFORE DOWNSIZING

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2026

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THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

Tips for the first time homebuyer Sta Reports

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Planning ahead can make building your dream home much easier.

Advice for building your new home Sta Reports

If you are thinking about building a new home, there are several things you should do to make sure the process goes smoothly and your expectations are met.

Tuesdee Davis, a local real estate agent and owner of Tennessee Tuesdee Real Estate, LLC, took the time to go over some tips she has for those who are looking to build their own home.

“The very first step, no matter what, is to talk to a lender. Before you look at plans, land, or builders, you need to know your budget and what loan options you qualify for,” Davis said.

“If you are considering building, you will need to decide early whether you want to do an owner build or hire a general contractor.

If you plan to owner build, keep in mind only a handful of lenders allow it. That is where working with a knowledgeable local real estate agent can help. They usually know which banks will finance these projects and which ones will not,” she added.

“If you plan to use a licensed general contractor, you will have more flexibility with construction and lenders but a GC is a large portion of your budget often,” Davis pointed out.

“Your lender will help determine your budget for both the home and the land.”

She said if you already own land, you may be able to use the equity in that land toward your build. In some cases, this can mean little to no money down.

Once you have selected your lender and decided how you want to build, you can move forward with your plans. You can purchase house plans online, design a custom plan, or choose from plans your general contractor already builds.

“If you are hiring a general contractor, take time to do your homework. Visit past builds, talk to previous clients, and look closely at the quality of work and overall satisfaction,” she suggests.

“Make sure your contractor is properly licensed and insured through the state

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Tuesdee Davis is a licensed real estate agent and owns Tennessee Tuesdee Real Estate, LLC. She lists land and homes throughout the East Tennessee area.

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A real estate agent can help you nd the right land for your new home construction project.

of Tennessee, not just operating under a local business license. This protects you and helps ensure your home meets code requirements,” Davis pointed out.

Permits, Inspections, and the Build Process Once your plans are finalized and your loan is approved, construction can begin, she said.

“Funds are typically distributed in phases throughout the build. Either you or your contractor will submit invoices to the lender, and payments are made as each stage is completed,” Davis said.

She pointed out there will be inspections along the way to ensure everything meets local building codes. The proper permits

must also be pulled prior to construction commencing.

“Always take the time to research your contractor and subcontractors. There are too many cases of homeowners being taken advantage of by unlicensed or inexperienced builders,” she cautioned.

She said you can use someone you know for smaller jobs if it is allowed, but be aware of Tennessee regulations. For example, a home improvement license typically limits work to jobs costing less than $24,999, she said.

“Doing your homework on the front end can save you time, money, and stress and help ensure your new home is built the right way,” Davis concluded.

If you are thinking about buying a home, there are several things you need to do to prepare yourself.

Being a first time home buyer can be both stressful and exciting, so realtor Tuesdee Davis has offered a few tips to help you get ready to buy your first home.

Establish stable income Lenders want to see consistency. Ideally, you should have a full-time job with verifiable income for at least two years.

Self-employment is absolutely acceptable, but you’ll need properly filed tax returns to document your income.

Build & protect your credit score Your credit score plays a major role in loan approval and interest rates. Start building credit early and keep balances low.

If you’re unsure where to start, connect with a trusted local lender or real estate agent who can guide you on which accounts to open and which to avoid.

Not allc credit is good credit.

Avoid major financial changes Don’t make large purchases (cars, furniture, etc.) before or during the home buying process.

Also avoid large unexplained deposits or withdrawals. These can delay or even derail your loan approval.

Explore low or no down payment options Many first-time buyers are surprised to learn there are loan programs that require little to no money down.

Even if your credit isn’t perfect or you have no credit yet there are steps you can take to improve it quickly sometimes.

Get pre-approved first Before you start shopping, get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. This

Carpeting adds warmth and comfort underfoot, but residential carpeting is a significant financial investment. Homeowners should do all they can to ensure carpeting remains in good condition for as long as possible.

According to the Carpet and Rug Institute, properly maintained carpet may last between 10 and 15 years.

However, without the right care, the durability of carpet can be slashed in half. Maintaining carpeting is not just about preserving aesthetic appeal; protecting carpeting from too much wear and tear helps manage indoor air quality and maintain home value. These guidelines can

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First time homebuyers can always upgrade to a larger home if they need to do so in the future. Factor in all costs, and don’t max out your budget during the homebuying process.

gives you a clear budget and makes your offer stronger in competitive markets.

Don’t max out your budget Just because you’re approved for a certain amount doesn’t mean you should spend it. Leave room for maintenance, utilities, and life. Make sure no real estate agent is pushing you to buy at the top or over your budget.

Factor in ALL costs Homeownership includes more than your mortgage; think property taxes, insurance, repairs, and possible HOA fees.

Keep your job stable during the process Changing jobs (even for better pay) during underwriting can cause delays or require re-approval, so always speak to the lender for approval.

Have some cash reserves Even with low down payment loans, having some savings for inspections,

appraisals, and unexpected repairs is important. Not to mention you don’t want to have car trouble and have to decide whether to fix your car or make a house payment.

Work with a knowledgeable local agent A good local agent will guide you through the process, help you avoid costly mistakes, and negotiate on your behalf. If you buy “a for sale by owner,” then know your rights as a buyer and get proper disclosures to protect yourself. A good agent will take your concerns into consideration but guide you on what is realistic in our current market. No one should ever push you to make one of the largest purchases you will ever make. Make sure you find an experienced agent who knows which loans apply to which homes when shopping, so you do not make an offer on a home you don’t qualify for.

Preserve your pile: Carpet maintenance tips

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• Remove shoes when coming indoors. Industry experts say that the majority of the soil entering a home is dry particulate matter that is brought in on the soles of shoes.

Particulates can act like micro-abrasives that grind against carpet fibers, dulling the sheen and weakening the structure. Removing shoes upon entering the home will cut down on the amount of soil that reaches the carpet.

• Utilize high-quality mats. Place mats both outside and inside of every entrance to cut down on the amount of debris that is tracked into a home.

The industrial matting company NoTrax indicates at least 15 feet of matting is required to remove the majority of dirt and debris from foot traffic. Carpet industry experts refer to this as the “Rule of 15.”

• Frequently vacuum the home. The CRI recommends vacuuming high-traffic areas daily, while other areas around the home may require less attention. Vacuuming removes dry soil before

it can be ground into the backing of carpeting. For the best results, a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter will ensure the machine effectively removes dust instead of just redistributing it into the air while vacuuming.

• Get a deep cleaning. Major carpet manufacturers, including Shaw and Mohawk, require Hot Water Extraction every 12 to 18 months on their carpets to maintain warranties. Professional cleaning removes even more debris and keeps carpeting in pristine shape.

• Apply a protectant.

While most new carpets come with a factory-applied finish to protect fibers, this wears off over time. Reapplying a carpet protector (like ScotchgardTM) creates a shield that lowers the surface tension of the fibers, helping homeowners clean up spills fast before stains set in.

Reducing dirt tracked inside, vacuuming frequently and arranging for periodic professional deep-cleaning will help prolong the longevity of residential carpeting.

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Repurpose rooms and breathe new life into a home Homeowners do not need to get hung up on room labels as they explore ways to reinvent their spaces. Just because a floor plan labels a space as a formal dining room doesn’t mean the area has to remain that way.

Repurposing rooms in a home comes down to aligning the space a person has with their lifestyle needs. Here are a few ways to rethink interior spaces and make a switch to improve utility.

• Identify unused or underused rooms. Take note of spaces that are cleaned but rarely used.

For many people, this is a dining room or a guest suite. Either of these rooms can be transformed into something new.

• Invest in multipurpose furniture. Even people short on space can transform their homes.

Replacing a traditional bed with a murphy bed or a daybed can make a room more suitable for a home office or yoga studio, but still provide a space for the occasional houseguest to sleep. A pull-down shelf desk in a bedroom or even a walk-in closet can turn an area into a compact home workstation.

• Claim dead space. The area under the stairs or another small spot often is used to collect junk.

Instead, it can be turned into a built-in wine rack, a reading nook for kids or even a pet sanctuary with just a few modifications.

Analyze areas around the home that seem like they don’t serve a purpose, and then figure out a way to make them more functional.

• Establish room zones. Some people simply cannot transform

lounging spot. Lighting can add dimension to areas in a space. A pendant light over a crafting or work table can be used define the space.

• Look at utility areas. Unless you are a do-it-yourselfer or have a hobby that takes up much of the garage or basement, utility areas are major spots in a home to consider repurposing. A garage can be turned into a home gym, kids’ play area or even a hobby shop.

Modular flooring and insulated walls can make the room comfortable. Attic lofts are the ultimate quiet zones, and can be serene spots for reading, meditating or doing homework. An unfinished basement can be converted into a finished space to serve many different purposes. From media rooms to a teen lounge to a hobby cave, the opportunities are endless.

A good rule of thumb before an entire room into something converting any room is to give it a else. Visual partitioning makes it test run. Move in a piece of furnipossible to create rooms within ture and test how it works with its rooms. An area rug can be used to intended function. Assess lightdefine a border of a space. Open ing, noise and foot traffic for a bookshelves can serve as a wall week, and then move ahead with to separate a sleeping area from a changes if the result is positive.

The basics of molding How to establish a home renovation budget replacement projects The right renovation project can change the look and feel of a home.

Major undertakings like a kitchen remodel might be the first projects homeowners think of when considering ways to transform their home interiors, but small projects also can go a long way toward remaking spaces in a home.

The molding in a home is a small yet important feature that can affect the look and feel of interior spaces. New molding might not offer the wow factor of a kitchen redesign, but new molding still has a dramatic effect and is well worth the investment of time and effort, particularly if existing molding has begun to show signs of wear and tear.

WHEN SHOULD MOLDING BE REPLACED? Replacement may be necessary when molding is showing signs of rot or damage or when paint is peeling. Rotting molding may feel soft, while warping and swelling indicates the molding is damaged and in need of replacement. Molding that is detaching from the walls also may need to be replaced. But such a condition also can occur as a house is setting or due to seasonal fluctuations of humidity within the home.

If this occurs with molding that still looks good, then re-nailing may be the best approach.

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT MOLDING BEFORE REPLACING IT? Molding comes in many shapes, styles and sizes.

Molding helps to maintain cohesion in spaces

throughout a home, so it’s necessary to identify the current type of molding that’s in a home if you only need to replace pieces here and there. If all of the molding must be replaced, then you may have more flexibility. Molding styles include colonial, ogee, cove, and step and double step. The height and thickness of the molding as well as which material type, such as solid wood or PVC, also may determine the right product for your home. Working with an interior designer and contractor can help homeowners who are uncertain about their existing molding make the right choice when installing a new product.

HOW MUCH DOES MOLDING COST? The cost to install new molding will be determined by a number of variables unique to each home, including where the home is located, which materials homeowners choose, which molding is being replaced (i.e., crown molding, baseboard molding, or both), and how much is being replaced. The renovation experts at Angi. com estimate that the range for a crown molding replacement project is between $600 and $2,100.

Angi.com notes a similar price range for a baseboard molding replacement project, which typically runs between $800 and $2,250.

Replacing fading or damaged molding can subtly but effectively transform interior spaces in a home.

Homeowners are urged to work with a contractor to identify the right molding products for their homes.

Homeowners know that the next home renovation project is always right around the corner.

And that means finding ways to finance such undertakings.

When planning for renovations, the average homeowner underestimates their project cost by approximately 22 percent, according to the 2026 Remodeling Impact Report. Establishing a pre-project budget can help avoid such surprises.

DON’T OVERIMPROVE A common mistake homeowners make is over-improving a home beyond the neighborhood value. A good rule of thumb is to employ the average percentageof-home-value approach in an effort to stay within range of what’s acceptable.

Budget a kitchen renovation or finished basement at 10 to 15 percent of the home value.

A master bedroom will come in at 5 to 10 percent of home value, while a small bedroom or office falls between 1 and 3 percent of home value. These benchmarks are supported by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the National Association of Realtors.

Historically, a functional, modern kitchen is the top driver of home value, says Remodeling Magazine.

LEARN THE BREAKDOWN Homeowners should understand that materials, fixtures, appliances, and flooring, otherwise known as “hard costs,” will eat up 50 to 60 percent of their renovation budgets.

Labor, permits and design fees will comprise the next largest chunk, typically coming in between

25 and 35 percent. Homeowners also should factor about 15 to 20 percent of a budget to a safety net to cover unforeseen expenses, like mold remediation or structural issues.

a list of desired items in and improve efficiency. hand, and acceptable subKEEP A 20 PERCENT stitutions if the cost comes in too high, homeowners CUSHION Homeowners can detercan create a budget that mine the affordability if a works. proposed project ends up SAVING VERSUS costing 20 percent more GET THREE QUOTES or takes a few months SPLURGING It’s important for homeIt’s important for home- longer. If the answer is owners to get several esti- owners to be realistic no, homeowners should mates before establishing about their renovations. scale back the project a budget. Experts advise They can splurge on items budget until they have working with contractors that are seen or touched that financial safety net. that offer fixed-price con- every day, like door hanAlliant Credit Union says tracts rather than those dles, cabinet pulls and experts strongly recomthat list time and materi- faucets. Other items, like mend adding a 20 percent als; otherwise, there may lighting fixtures or backcontingency cushion to a be a mid-project price splashes, can be replaced remodeling budget. hike that comes out of the down the road. It may A home remodeling blue. A person also can be better to direct funds project is a big commitask contractors for a line- to structural elements or ment of time and money. item bid so it’s possible to those “invisible renovaBudgeting correctly see where money can be tions” like upgrading insu- ensures that there are few, trimmed through differlation or smart systems if any, surprises along the ent material choices. With that save on energy costs way.

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How to establish a home renovation budget Upgrades to ensure a home stays safe and secure Homeowners know that the next home renovation project is always right around the corner.

And that means finding ways to finance such undertakings.

When planning for renovations, the average homeowner underestimates their project cost by approximately 22 percent, according to the 2026 Remodeling Impact Report. Establishing a pre-project budget can help avoid such surprises.

expenses, like mold remediation or structural issues.

GET THREE QUOTES It’s important for homeowners to get several estimates before establishing a budget. Experts advise working with contractors that offer fixed-price contracts rather than those that list time and materials; otherwise, there may be a mid-project price hike that comes out of the blue. A Establishing a home renovation budget requires some disci- person also can ask contracpline. tors for a line-item bid so it’s possible to see where money LEARN THE BREAKDOWN can be trimmed through difDON’T OVERIMPROVE A master bedroom will Homeowners should A common mistake come in at 5 to 10 perferent material choices. With homeowners make is cent of home value, while understand that materia list of desired items in over-improving a home a small bedroom or office als, fixtures, appliances, and hand, and acceptable substibeyond the neighborfalls between 1 and 3 per- flooring, otherwise known as tutions if the cost comes in hood value. A good rule cent of home value. These “hard costs,” will eat up 50 to too high, homeowners can of thumb is to employ the benchmarks are supported 60 percent of their renovacreate a budget that works. tion budgets. Labor, permits average percentage-ofby the National AssociSAVING VERSUS and design fees will comprise home-value approach in ation of the Remodeling an effort to stay within Industry and the National the next largest chunk, typSPLURGING It’s important for homeically coming in between 25 range of what’s acceptable. Association of Realtors.

Budget a kitchen renoHistorically, a functional, and 35 percent. Homeowners owners to be realistic about their renovations. They can vation or finished basemodern kitchen is the top also should factor about 15 ment at 10 to 15 perdriver of home value, says to 20 percent of a budget to a splurge on items that are safety net to cover unforeseen seen or touched every day, cent of the home value.

Remodeling Magazine. like door handles, cabinet pulls and faucets. Other items, like lighting fixtures or backsplashes, can be replaced down the road. It may be better to direct funds to structural elements or those “invisible renovations” like upgrading insulation or smart systems that save on energy costs and improve efficiency.

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KEEP A 20 PERCENT CUSHION Homeowners can determine the affordability if a proposed project ends up costing 20 percent more or takes a few months longer.

If the answer is no, homeowners should scale back the project budget until they have that financial safety net.

Alliant Credit Union says experts strongly recommend adding a 20 percent contingency cushion to a remodeling budget.

A home remodeling project is a big commitment of time and money. Budgeting correctly ensures that there are few, if any, surprises along the way.

A home can never be too safe or secure. When residents of a home leave or go to bed at night, a wide range of safety and security features can protect them and their belongings.

In-home amenities also can make homes safer for residents with mobility issues or other limitations.

Homeowners indeed have no shortage of options when seeking to make their homes safer and more secure. An assortment of safety and security features can help homeowners plan for nearly every situation that could put residents in jeopardy.

• Age-related safety features: Various features can help seniors age in place.

The National Institute on Aging recommends installing grab bars in showers and bathtubs to reduce the risk of falls when bathing. Such features also can help seniors balance themselves while they bathe and get in and out of showers and tubs. Nonslip strips can be installed on bathroom and kitchen floors in areas that might be vulnerable to spills or puddling. The NIA also recommends fixing all carpets firmly on the floors, which may necessitate the removal of all area rugs. Adding handrails on staircases so there’s something to grab onto on each side the staircase also can enhance the safety of these potentially risky spaces in a home.

• Entry point security features: Deadbolts, security cameras and/or smart doorbells make it easier to keep strangers out and monitor entryways. Smart doorbells may deter criminals from approaching a property. Locks and sensors also can be installed on all windows, and especially those on the first floor that can be accessed from the ground.

Locks on sliding doors can be reinforced with secondary locks that further prevent the door from being opened from the outside once the locks are engaged.

• Fire safety features: The National Fire Protection Association notes that the death rate in home structure fires is approximately 60 percent lower in homes with working smoke alarms than in homes with no alarms or in homes where alarms are not working. The NFPA adds that smoke alarms monitor for smoke and control the speaker that emits the sounds that notify occupants of the presence of smoke. The NFPA recommends both ionization smoke alarms and photoelectric smoke alarms, as each employs a different type of sensor. The combination of both in a home ensures people are alerted in the case of both flaming fires (ionization alarms) and smoking, smoldering fires (photoelectric alarms).

A functioning fire extinguisher also is a must (disposable extinguishers typically last between 10 and 12 years), as is a carbon monoxide detector.

• Lighting: Sufficient lighting in a home and around the exterior of a home and even the property can be another important safety and security measure.

Exterior lighting deters intruders because it makes them more visible to residents while they’re awake and makes them easier to see on overnight security cameras, which can be enough to keep them away.

Interior lighting makes it easier to navigate a home at twilight and at night. Hallway night lights can make trips to the bathroom safer, and lighting alongside stairways can make these spaces easier to navigate when the rest of the home is dark.

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Prevent pest problems Pests can be problematic for homeowners. Pests can be frightening, and an infestation can result in property damage if it is not discovered or treated promptly.

According to Green Pest Management, termites can hollow out beams, beetles can tunnel through hardwood, and rodents can chew through wiring and insulation. It doesn’t take long for damage to escalate.

And homeowners may not know issues are building until problems have become visible.

To address pests effectively, both inside and outside of the home, homeowners should prioritize prevention and physical barriers first. Chemicals and professional pest treatment services may be necessary if initial efforts are not enough. Here are some strategies homeowners can try.

• Check the perimeter. Pests can enter a home through small gaps in the foundation, as well as around windows and doors.

Use silicone caulk around windows and stuff steel

wool in gaps around plumbing pipes.

• Address moisture issues.

Many insects are attracted to dampness. It’s important to fix leaky faucets immediately and use a dehumidifier

in basements or crawl spaces to make the environment less hospitable to pests.

• Manage crumbs and trash. Pests like an easy food source, so move dry goods into glass or sealed

plastic containers. Clean up crumbs around the kitchen, empty catches in the sink drain readily, and be sure to take out the garbage before it gets full and malodorous; otherwise, you might be

highway for termites and ants. Gravel or bare dirt may be better against the house.

• Eliminate standing water. Clear gutters and address low-lying areas of the landscape.

Turlock Mosquito Abatement District says mosquitoes grow in standing water, and they can develop into biting mosquitoes in amounts of water as small as that needed to fill a bottle cap. Tip and toss out any water to prevent mosquito breeding.

• Use natural repellents.

Peppermint oil might deter spiders and rodents near entry points. Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from fossilized, microscopic remains of hard-shelled aquatic organisms. While used primarily in some pool filtration systems, DE also can dehydrate insects with exoskeletons, like ants or luring pests indoors. roaches.

• Create a buffer zone If pests become problemoutside. Try not to plant atic and first-line treatvegetation too close to the ments are not working, conhome. While mulch is cov- sult with a professional pest eted for its use in landcompany to see what might scaping, it can act as a be the answer.

A rundown on countertops Kitchen renovations continue to top the list of improvements that offer a high rate of return on investment. Buyers pay attention to kitchens, which undoubtedly affects the ROI of kitchen renovations.

According to the Journal of Light Construction’s “Cost vs. Value Report 2025,” a minor kitchen remodel offers an ROI of 113 percent, while a midrange remodel offers an ROI of 51 percent. Replacing a kitchen countertop can help homeowners see improvements to the functionality of their spaces and improve the value of their homes.

According to data from Grand View Research, the U.S. countertops market is projected to reach $35.57 billion in 2026, driven by homeowners who desire highvalue renovations over relocating. Those thinking about overhauling their spaces with new countertops can consider the leading materials and how they rank in cost, maintenance and durability.

countertop material over the next several years. Quartz is non-porous, so it will resist stains, scratches and bacteria infiltration without having to be sealed. Unlike natural stone, quartz offers pattern uniformity, which makes it easier to map out seamless transitions. Quartz costs between $50 and $150 per square foot installed.

GRANITE ENGINEERED QUARTZ Granite still holds a considerable chunk The National Kitchen & Bath Associaof the countertops market and remains a tion reports that 78 percent of design pro- solid standard for those who value a onefessionals expect quartz to be the preferred of-a-kind look of natural stone. Granite

has exceptional heat resistance and adds significant resale value. However, it requires periodic sealing to maintain its good looks. Costs range from $40 to $190 per square foot.

PORCELAIN Porcelain tiles and slabs are projected to become the fastest-growing segment in the ceramic tiles market, according to reports from Yahoo Finance. High-precision printing technology enables porcelain See COUNTERTOPS, C6

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Variables to consider before downsizing a home in retirement Aspiring to save money in retirement makes perfect sense. Once professionals call it a career and are no longer drawing a paycheck, cutting back on expenses can be a sound decision that ensures seniors won’t outlive their money. And housing remains a significant expense, even for retirees who own their homes and no longer have monthly mortgage payments to make.

Many retirees seeking ways to save money consider downsizing their homes. According to the National Association of Retailers, 12 percent of people between the ages of 60 and 69 who move indicated their home was too large, and that percentage grows among movers between the ages of 70 and 78 (16 percent) and those who move after turning 79 (18 percent).

Downsizing a home in retirement can seem like an ideal means to saving money after calling it a career, but individuals pondering such a move should consider a number of variables before putting their homes up for sale.

expenses, and capital gains taxes can quickly add up. In addition, retirees who currently do not pay homeowner’s association fees may be subjected to such fees when moving into a new home, and those fees can be substantial and hard to avoid. Indeed, recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicated that 71 percent of new constructions in the western and southern United States were built in communities with homeowner’s associations. Prior to downsizing, current homeowners should calculate all of the costs related to relocating, including anticipated HOA fees, to see if downsizing is to their financial benefit.

COSTS Downsizing may help retirees lower their property tax obligations, reduce their utility bills and lower their monthly mortgage payments (for those who are still paying off a mortgage on their current homes), but that does not mean moving will not SOCIAL BENEFITS incur new expenses that Another variable that render such savings moot. merits consideration is Expenditures like closing costs, real estate com- the impact that moving missions, moving-related can have on seniors’

social lives. The World Health Organization reports that more than one in 10 seniors experiences loneliness, which can adversely affect their physical and mental health and potentially reduce their life expectancy. Retirees currently living in communities in which they are socially active should weigh the effects of leaving that social network behind.

Retirees also can weigh the benefits of moving to 55 and over communities where they will be surrounded by people at a similar stage in life, and how living in such developments may improve their social lives.

ADJUSTING AND ADAPTING Downsizing will require an adjustment period and a willingness to adapt.

Retirees may have an emotional attachment

to their current homes, and leaving that behind can be a difficult adjustment. Adapting to life in a new community also can be challenging, particularly if retirees are moving from areas where there are no restrictions regarding their properties to communities where homeowners’ associations must approve of any changes to properties.

Moving also may require finding new health care professionals, which can be a particularly difficult adjustment for retirees who have spent years building a strong rapport with their current health care team.

Downsizing a home might be a pathway to more financial freedom for many retirees. Seniors considering such a move can consider a number of variables to determine if moving is in their best interest.

TERRYJ

Countertops From C6 to mimic rare marble and other stone with superior accuracy. Porcelain is even harder than granite and effectively impervious to UV rays. This makes the material a solid choice for outdoor kitchens. Plus, at a cost of $60 to $120 per square foot, it is competitive with other similar materials.

BUTCHER BLOCK Those who appreciate a soft, organic texture and “warmth” in their spaces can look to butcher block.

Wood is making a comeback, as many homeowners are moving away from stark, white designs. Butcher block is self-healing, meaning scratches can be sanded out.

Butcher block costs between $50 and $150 per square foot.

LAMINATE Laminate is a budget-friendly option for homeowners at $20 to $80 per square foot, but is not as durable as other materials. Some laminates mimic the look of highend materials, and they don’t require much maintenance.

Countertops affect the look and feel of kitchens and other interior and exterior spaces. Choosing materials comes down to cost, durability and maintenance.

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Notable features of modern bathrooms Bathrooms are more than just places to wash up. These spaces are evolving from utilitarian rooms to high-tech sanctuaries with all the modern conveniences one can imagine. Homeowners are increasingly investing more into their bathrooms, reflecting a growing desire for quiet luxury and personal health.

According to the 2026 National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Trends Report, 72 percent of designers report that clients are enlarging their bathrooms to accommodate new wellness-centered features. Modern bathrooms are defined by some notable features.

HOME SPA SHOWER The NKBA reports more homeowners now prioritize a larger, feature-rich shower over just a bathtub. Steam showers are no longer niche; they integrate aromatherapy and chromotherapy (mood-enhancing light) systems into the designs. Although open,

benches are some luxury safety features built into modern bathrooms.

SMART TECHNOLOGY Polaris Market Research says the global smart bathroom market is projected to exceed $11 billion in 2026. Technology focused on efficiency and hygiene is popular. Intelligent toilets that have self-cleaning UV nozzles, heated seats and motion-activated lids are rising in popularity. Smart faucets with precise flow control and leak detection also are becoming standard, with Houzz saying sustainability features like these are a must-have for 84 percent of renovators.

walk-in showers are still popular for their accessibility, there’s a rising trend in shower pods, which are enclosed, cozy spaces that more effectively retain heat and steam.

AGING IN PLACE ELEMENTS Features once associated with getting older are now being rebranded as high-end design elements. According to Forbes, curbless entries and built-in

have been dominating bathroom schemes for some time, according to Re-Bath design expert Jenny Mars. Designers favor large-format slabs or tiles to minimize grout lines. Earthy tones like sage green, terracotta, and warm wood vanities also are popular.

LAYERED LIGHTING Design pros are using lighting as a functional tool, and say that task lighting must be layered for the best effect. Nighttime-specific low-glow lighting and integrated mirror LEDs support a natural circadian rhythm while offering comfort and safety.

The NKBA says 91 percent of respondents cite lighting as a top priority in their bathroom EVOLVING MINIMALISM designs. Mood lighting in showOrganic minimalism is a defin- ers and other lighting features ing style within modern bathare popular requests. room trends for 2026. This idea Modern bathrooms continue prioritizes clean looks with nat- to evolve with features that add ural materials like stone and aesthetic appeal, sustainability wood, which are replacing cool and technology to these historigrays and stark whites that cally utilitarian spaces.

Popular kitchen flooring materials It’s well-documented that kitchens are popular gathering spaces in homes. Perhaps that’s one reason why homeowners looking to sell their homes direct so much attention to the kitchen before listing their properties.

The real estate experts at Trulia note that emphasis is well worth it, as buyers inspect kitchens and primary bathrooms more than any other spaces in a home.

Cabinets and countertops garner considerable attention when pondering kitchen renovations, but it’s equally important that homeowners pay attention to flooring when planning a remodel. The following are some notable flooring materials homeowners may want to consider as they plan to remodel their kitchens.

• Ceramic tile: Ceramic tile is a popular kitchen flooring material. The flooring experts at Avalon Flooring note that ceramic tile boasts an elegant and clean feel. Ceramic tile also is durable and easy to maintain. That simple maintenance includes ease of cleaning, as ceramic tile can be quickly cleared of spills and dirt tracked into

a kitchen from outside. Ceramic tile also comes in a wide variety of colors, a versatility that undoubtedly adds to its popularity.

• Porcelain tile: Porcelain tile is another versatile option that can add instant aesthetic appeal to a kitchen. Porcelain tile is waterproof, which appeals to many

homeowners looking to renovate their kitchens. Porcelain also is easily cleaned and durable, as flooring experts estimate that porcelain tiles can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years. Porcelain tile also requires minimal maintenance, which appeals to busy homeowners.

• Engineered hardwood: Engineered hardwood is a popular choice that many homeowners appreciate due to its strength and aesthetic appeal. This flooring material is made with real wood that’s reinforced to make it even more durable and water-resistant. The result is an easily maintained product that also can last as long as solid wood flooring so long as it’s well-maintained. Various shades, designs and textures are available, which makes this a versatile option.

• Laminate flooring: Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly option that’s available in a wide range of styles, colors and patterns. The smooth surface of laminate flooring makes it easy to clean, and it’s resistance to water is another characteristic that appeals to homeowners. But spills on laminate floors are best cleaned up quickly, and the material is vulnerable to warping and staining if exposed to moisture for extended periods of time.

These are some of the options homeowners can consider as they ponder which material to install on their kitchen floors as they remodel these popular rooms.

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