Upstate Real Estate & Home Services - February 2019

Real Estate UPSTATE

& HOME SERVICES

Renting out your home: four simple steps to get things ready Page 6

Kitchen cabinets that aren’t white Page 8 VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 2 | FEBRUARY 2019

Three types of lighting you should have in your home Page 14

Real Estate UPSTATE

& HOME SERVICES

A Publication of The Daily Star

102 Chestnut Street, Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-1000 • www.thedailystar.com PUBLISHER Fred Scheller fscheller@thedailystar.com (607) 441-7214

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Valerie Secor vsecor@thedailystar.com (607) 441-7235

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tracy Bender

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Interior designer vs. interior decorator: what’s the difference?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

How builders can keep radon from entering a home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

How to organize your bedroom for better sleep. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Renting out your home: four simple steps to get things ready. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Three types of lighting you should have in your home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

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Get the financial facts about timeshares. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Kitchen cabinets that aren’t white. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Youthification: how age affects property values in urban centers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Did you know?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Three technologies that are changing how the real estate industry works. . . . . . . . . . . .

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| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services | February 2019

Did you know?

Prospective real estate investors who hope to buy, hold and rent out their investment properties should first interview potential property managers before buying homes. While it’s possible to find property managers willing to manage single-family homes or duplexes, the financial resource Bankrate.com notes that many property managers prefer to manage large apartment complexes instead. Managing properties is hard work, and without skilled property managers on their side, real estate investors may become overwhelmed by the responsibilities of taking care of their real estate invest-

ments while simultaneously trying to maintain their own residences. Before buying investment properties, pro-

spective real estate investors should interview various local property managers or property management

firms, inquiring about their fees and what is included in those fees. If the cost of hiring property managers drastically cuts into the profits investors hoped to make off their investment properties, they might be better off looking to invest their money in areas other than real estate. Prospective investors can compare the potential return on investment after the cost of property managers has been factored in to the return they might get from more traditional investments to determine if investing in real estate is a sound financial decision.

Registered Mortgage Broker NMLS # 271856 (iNdividuaL) NMLS # 17294 (coMpaNy) 20 cheStNut Street #1 cooperStowN, Ny 13326 toLL Free (800) 547-7948 (607) 547-5007 oFFice (607)547-2362 Fax email: matt@leatherstockinggroup.com | web: www.leatherstockingmortgage.com All Loans Arranged Through 3rd Party Lenders Registered Mortgage Broker - New York State Department of Financial Services

UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

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February 2019 | 3

How builders can keep radon from entering a

HOME

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| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |

February 2019

A

s the world has changed, so, too, have home buyers. The home buyers of today typically want homes that align with life in the 21st century. That means extra outlets for all of our devices and homes pre-wired for high speed internet access.

Housing starts, which refers to the number of new residential construction sites, reflect buyers’ demand for newly built homes.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were slightly more than 1.2 million housing starts in September 2018, which marked a sizable increase from a year prior, when 1.158 million new residential constructions broke ground.

Though prospective buyers want a host of modern amenities, they also want something valued by homeowners since the dawn of time: safety. Security systems can safeguard homeowners and their families from criminals, but homeowners also must ensure steps are taken to protect a home’s inhabitants from naturally occurring threats, including radon.

Radon is a radioactive gas that is produced from the natural breakdown of the uranium found in most rocks and soil.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to radon gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

Because it’s naturally occurring, radon can infiltrate any home. However, the EPA, working alongside state and federal geologists, has developed maps that predict the potential indoor radon levels for every county in the country. (Note: Radon can pose a health risk when breathed in through outdoor air, but such instances are unusual

Radon is a radioactive gas that is produced from the natural breakdown of the uranium found in most rocks and soil. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to radon gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

because radon is typically diluted in open air.) Each county has been assigned a zone depending on its potential radon threat, and those that pose the biggest threat are designated as Zone 1, while those with the lowest threat are Zone 3.

Homeowners building their homes can contact their state’s radon office via www.epa.gov to determine which

zone their property is in.

In addition to learning which radon zone they’re in, homeowners building new homes can ask their builders to take the following measures so their homes’ interiors are as resistant to radon as possible.

• Install a layer of clean gravel or aggregate beneath the slab or flooring system.

• Lay polyethylene sheeting on top of the gravel layer.

• Include a gas-tight venting pipe from the gravel level through the building to the roof.

• Seal and caulk the foundation thoroughly.

Learn more about radon, including how to determine radon levels in your home, at www.epa.gov.

UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

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February 2019 | 5

holiday decorating ideas for the enthusiast

Renting out your home: four simple steps to get things ready Planning to rent out your home? If so, here’s a brief guide to ensure you don’t forget any essential to-dos.

1. Renovate, repair and refresh Before putting your house up for rent, determine what renovations you should complete. Make sure the walls are freshly painted, the appliances up to date and all cracks and leaks are sealed and caulked.

You’ll also want to do a deep clean of the house.

2. Remove items you want to keep If you’re renting out a furnished home, remove all valuables and any belongings you don’t want your tenants to use.

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February 2019

3. Collect evidence of your home’s condition Document the home’s condition by taking pictures—you’ll use these to determine if the house is still in good shape when the renters move out.

4. Notify the appropriate people Keep in mind that you’ll need to notify your mortgage and insurance companies before renting out your house as well as invest in landlords’ insurance.

Though potentially lucrative, being responsible for a property you don’t inhabit yourself is no small undertaking. In addition to the practical steps above, make sure you mentally prepare for all that’s involved with becoming a landlord.

Three technologies that are changing how the real estate industry works

T

he emergence of the internet, social media and online property listings has dramatically changed how real estate is bought and sold. Now, developments in the fields of artificial intelligence, virtual reality and geospatial technology are revolutionizing the industry even further.

Here are three types of technology currently shaping the real estate business: 1. Virtual reality (VR). VR technology is changing the real estate game by allowing potential buyers to go on 3D virtual tours of properties they’re interested in. Real

estate agents can also use virtual staging to show what unfurnished homes would look like with furniture.

2. GPS technology. Real estate websites and mobile apps use geo-location tags to show homes for sale near your location and reveal how close properties are to amenities like grocery stores and schools.

Geospatial tools also allow real estate professionals to analyze property value based on location and view trends in house sales in particular areas.

3. Artificial intelligence (AI).

AI is being used to develop chat

bots that act as a virtual real estate agent and guide you through the buying or selling process. AI software also helps real estate companies to identify potential buyers and use targeted ads to attract their attention.

With these technologies becoming available to buyers, sellers and agents alike, it’s increasingly possible to search for and invest in properties all over the world. These days, a computer and smartphone are all you need to explore real estate prospects across every corner of the globe.

UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

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February 2019 | 7

Kitchen cabinets that aren’t

white

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or years, many kitchen renovations have focused on white cabinets. While popular, this choice can be uninspiring and often difficult to keep clean. Here are three ideas for your kitchen cabinets that will stand the test of time but have a bit more personality than white alone.

light-colored Nordic influences rather than the dark, lacquered stains from decades past.

2. Gray Gray cabinets are great for kitchens because they’re neutral but add the kind of visual interest that you can’t get with white.

No matter your style, there’s a gray that will work for your kitchen. Go for an almost-white tone for an unexpected twist or try a charcoal hue for a more dramatic, elegant look.

1. Blonde wood Naturally pale wood combines the fresh, airy feel of white cabinets with the warm, homey feel of a cottage kitchen. Think

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February 2019

3. Two-tone There’s no rule that says all cabinets have to be same. Double down on the gray trend by painting the lowers charcoal and the uppers a pale gray to make your ceilings look higher. Or experiment with color by pairing a bold-hued island with natural wood cabinets.

Choosing one of these stylish options will add character to your kitchen in a way that white cabinets alone can’t.

A M E R I C A’S F LO O R S TO R E

Beautify Your Floors.

Enhance Your Whole Home.

Your floors create an important first impression of your home.

We sell and install an extensive selection of fine wood and wood-look flooring for an elegant, flawless foundation.

Stop by our showroom today to find the color, finish and option that’s perfect for your home.

• Carpet • Vinyl • Hardwood • Ceramic & Luxury Vinyl • Floating Floors by Coretec • Plank & Tile • Counter Tops • Marble & Quartz • Window Treatments by Graber • Sundries • Remnants

607-353-7433 • 61 South Main St, Oneonta Hours: Monday - Friday 8AM - 6PM • Saturday 9AM - 5PM Sunday By Appointment Only • @CarpetsPlusOneonta

UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

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February 2019 | 9

INTERIOR vs.

INTERIOR 10

| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |

February 2019

what’s the difference?

Y

ou’ve probably heard the terms interior designer and interior decorator used interchangeably. However, they actually describe two different but similar professions.

Interior designers complete two- or four-year degree programs that involve studying subjects like color theory, architecture, computer-aided design and spatial planning.

They work with architects and contractors to plan and renovate spaces and can be involved in every step of the remodeling process, from drawing up floor plans to adding the final touches.

Interior decorators focus on esthetics. They help transform spaces that are already built by making recommendations about paint colors, furniture styles, lighting and accessories. They’re not required

to complete professional training (though many decorators do), and they usually work directly with businesses and homeowners.

Should I hire a designer or a decorator?

If you need help with designs during a renovation, it’s best to go with an interior designer. They’ll help you create a space that serves your specific needs and aligns with your particular tastes. However, if you’re mainly looking to update the appearance of a space, a decorator can help you achieve a whole new look by rearranging and redecorating.

In the end, what matters most is not the job title, but the skills of the designer or decorator in question. Choose a company or professional with a reputation for high-quality designs and expertise in the type of work you’re looking for.

UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

| February 2019 | 11

How to organize your bedroom for better sleep If you have trouble winding down at night, your bedroom may be part of the problem. Here are four tips on how to organize your bedroom to achieve optimal sleep.

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February 2019

1. Invest in your bed.

Don’t skimp when it comes to the quality of your mattress — your comfort directly affects the quality of your sleep.

If your mattress is over seven years old, shows signs of wear or simply doesn’t feel comfortable, it’s time to invest in a new one. You should also select quality bedding; choose sheets with high thread counts made from materials like Egyptian cotton or satin.

2. Pay attention to lighting. Darkness is vital for allowing your body to go into sleep mode. Make sure your curtains and blinds adequately block out natural light (buy blackout curtains if necessary) and choose light bulbs with lower wattages.

3. Get rid of clutter. A cluttered bedroom can create anxiousness so it’s therefore best to keep your room well organized and accessories to a minimum. Don’t forget that your bed should be the focal point of the room.

4. Limit electronics.

Electronic screens emit a blue light that can keep you awake. Avoid placing a TV in your bedroom and consider charging your phone in a closed drawer when trying to sleep.

One final tip: if you regularly struggle with sleep, think about getting an air purifier for your bedroom. Not only do they make it easier to breathe, but they also create white noise that blocks out disruptive sounds.

A-NY WORK Call Us For A Quote!

Landscaping • Roofing • Interior & Exterior Painting • Electrical General Construction • Snow Removal • Repair & Maintenance Work Serving Oneonta & Surrounding Areas!

Joshua Hunt • 607-221-0236 UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

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February 2019 | 13

The three types of lighting you should have in your home 14

| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |

February 2019

Most design experts agree that the key to good lighting is having multiple layers of light that complement each other and fulfill different roles in the space. In general, homes require three basic types of lighting:

1. Ambient lighting. A room’s main source of lighting, often provided by chandeliers, pendant lighting or ceiling-mount lights. This layer sets the overall tone of the room, but it should only be the starting point of your lighting design.

2. Task lighting. A type of lighting that illuminates areas where you need extra brightness for performing specific tasks, such as reading, cooking or working at a computer. For

instance, you could install a hanging light fixture over the kitchen sink or install a lamp next to your preferred reading chair.

3. Accent lighting. Lighting used to highlight unique architectural features or certain objects, such as paintings, sculptures, decorative accessories or antique collectibles. Accent lighting should be concealed as much as possible since its purpose is to illuminate without being too obvious.

Using different types of lighting in each room allows you to change the intensity of the light according to how you’re using the space at the time and keeps you from relying on a single overhead light that may be too bright or create a lot of shadows.

UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

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M

any people turn to timeshares as a way to enjoy annual vacations. But is investing in a timeshare a financially sound decision? That depends on who you ask.

Getting the facts about how timeshares work and learning a few tricks can help anyone make an educated decision about timeshares.

In a timeshare, individuals purchase a place to stay in vacation property. They typically can then use this room and the surrounding amenities once per year, and often must travel to the same location time and again. Timeshares long have held appeal because they are marketed toward people who may not be able to buy a vacation home, but still want to vacation each year.

Get the financial facts about timeshares

Learn how to navigate timeshare purchases to find out if they’re a smart purchase for you.

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February 2019

Timeshares have some notable drawbacks as well. Cost-efficiency is one notable drawback of timeshares. The American Resort Development Association, a trade group for timeshare companies, offers that the average cost of a timeshare is around $20,000, with an annual maintenance fee of $660. Those fees are paid even if the resort isn’t used that year. Chances are a person can get a comparable vacation elsewhere for a lower cost - especially with the abundance of vacation property rentals available from traditional hotels as well as sites such as Airbnb.

There are some advantages to timeshares.

They provide a guaranteed vacation destination each year in a familiar place. This is great for people who value familiarity. Timeshares also make it possible to afford a vacation in an expensive resort. Sometimes a person can trade times or locations with other timeshare owners, enabling more versatility and new destination experiences. For those who have to skip a year, it may be possible to sublet the timeshare or let family and friends use it if the agreement allows.

UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services

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February 2019 | 17

Youthification: how age affects property values in urban centers

W

hile the age of renters and homeowners in a neighborhood doesn’t directly impact property values, there’s a definite correlation between concentrations of young, working-age people and higher housing costs.

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February 2019

The reason for this is that young people across North America are moving out of small towns and rural areas to settle in and around cities. (In large part, this is due to the increased abundance of jobs found in such areas.) As more young people move into urban centers and the surrounding suburbs, the demand for property in these areas goes up, resulting in higher housing costs.

Cities with skyrocketing real estate markets, such as New York and San Francisco, tend to likewise be places where there are high concentrations of young professionals and fewer people under the age of 18 and over the age of 65.

When lots of young, white-collar workers start moving into a neighborhood, it’s often a sign that property in that area will start

going up in value. Some researchers call this effect on urban environments youthification.

The areas where housing is most affordable tend to be smaller communities where there are fewer numbers of working-age people and larger numbers of children and elderly residents. In these places, the demand for real estate is not as high, which makes housing costs more manageable.

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