Opportunity Knocks?

At 55 Crest Ave. in Alamo, you might see a “best of both worlds” type home. It’s a 0.84 acre lot, the land is appealing, and because of that, they’re listing at $795,000.

But if you’re waiting to move into the 21st century, this may not be the place for you. Believe it or not, this run-down old place had almost 50 disclosure packages requested because of its location and potential.

I personally know a few people who are interested in the renovation project, with the knowledge that a remodeled home in that area may sell for much more later on.

Of course not all buyers who request a disclosure package will write, but I suspect they got at least 15 offers, the opportunity is too great even if the property sells for one million, it is surrounded by $1,500,000-$2,000,000+ homes.

There was a combination of speculators looking to flip it and disgruntled buyers who have lost out on homes and think it might be worth building their dream home. It just goes to show that the Bay Area real estate market is crazy red hot right now – it is a seller’s market.

If you are thinking of buying in or around Walnut Creek, give me a call! I’d love to help you.

How bathroom remodels are trending

Of all the things to remodel in a house, bathrooms and kitchens are probably the two most popular rooms.

bathroom-remodel-2

Houzz.com wrote a cool article about how homeowners are “craving stylish, beautiful spaces, with luxurious finishes and big showers.”Their study surveyed more than 2,100 Houzz users in the U.S. who own homes and are currently renovating their bathrooms, are recently done with a renovation, or are planning on one in the near future.

Check out some of the graphs that reveal the current trends for bathroom remodels:

How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend
How People Upgrade Their Main Bathrooms, and How Much They Spend

Latest Bathroom Trends

According to a recent Houzz & Home survey, homeowners are investing more on bathroom renovations than in previous years, largely due to outdated designs and finishes. What types of upgrades are they spending money on? Here are some of the latest trends and tech updates being used in bathroom design:

  • Aesthetic Additions – Small changes can bring big rewards, both in resale and in your daily experience. Some of the newest trends include polished chrome finishes and neutral colors like white and gray. Floating vanities, open shelving and undermount sinks are making bathrooms more streamlined. For a larger change, try no-threshold showers or higher vanity heights.bathroom-2
  • Tech Touches – Updating your home appliances isn’t just for the kitchen. Smart bathrooms are also making a splash, including high-tech toilets that boast seat warmers, LED lights, motion sensors and automatic dryers. Accessorized soaking tubs allow for bathing in chromotherapy and mood-enhanced lighting. Digital faucets and showers conserve water and money and incorporate touchless technology and programmable, timed options.

When done correctly, these bathroom upgrades will make a massive difference in your home. There’s nothing like a comfortable bathroom to guarantee a more peaceful experience. Keep an eye out – you’ll probably start seeing these trends taking place in new homes everywhere soon!

 

Best of 2014 – Kitchen Storage Ideas

kitchen renov

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am hoping to redo my kitchen/make a great room in the next year or two. My favorite ideas are the pull out knife drawer – keeps things simple and off the counters; the pantry cabinet for those who can’t do a walk in; and the cookie sheet cubbies!

What is your favorite idea?

~Kristin

 
“Peace comes from within.  Do not seek it without.”  Buddha