By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Whether you live in a large home with a dark interior or a small apartment with only one window, follow these tips to bring in more sunshine — or at least make it look that way.

Paint it light and bright

Colors and values are nothing more than the light that reaches our eyes after bouncing off objects. The amazing thing about white is that it reflects most of the light that hits its surface, creating the illusion of light. Case in point: that glowing ball in the sky we call the moon. Paint colors that are saturated yet light in value create a similar effect, while lending their own distinctive personalities to a space.

Keep the contrast

A kitchen with white cabinets, countertops, walls and backsplashes is about as bright as it gets, yet the lack of variety can leave the overall effect a bit dull. To keep things interesting, introduce contrast. Choose accessories, cookware and decorations in your favorite color, or even decide on an entire palette. Sneak in some style and personality with a colorful mosaic backsplash, or add drama to the scene with dark furniture, picture frames or patterns.

Strategically place mirrors

Mirrors cannot make a room look brighter on their own, though there is some truth to the mirror myth, since they’re excellent at reflecting natural light in rooms that already receive it.

Don’t expect to get the same effect in dim hallways and bathrooms, though, since it does no good to duplicate a dim view. So, go ahead — replace those huge panels of mirrored glass in your bathroom with more attractive framed mirrors. You won’t miss out after all.

Install new windows

Yes, installing an entire window or two is the nuclear option, but if your home is so dim that you’re forced to keep the lights on all day, then it could be taking a toll on your utility bills — or even your mental well-being! This isn’t a decision to take lightly (no pun intended), so talk to a contractor to discuss options and pricing before you break out that sledgehammer. You might be better off installing a skylight or light tubes.

Eliminate glare

Sometimes the problem isn’t the amount of light, but rather the quality. Overhead lights can brighten up a room, but the effect is harsh as high-noon sunlight. Instead, you want the diffuse, indirect light of early morning. Place lights near the walls, and place LED strips under cabinets to cover the wall in a soft glow. Be sure to include task lighting wherever it’s needed most, such as the home office or wherever you need to read and work.

Rethink window treatments

If your curtains cover up too much of the window, replace them with something less obstructive. Sheer and semisheer window treatments let in plenty of light, without sacrificing privacy during the day.

If you’re tired of pulling up the Venetian blinds or plantation shutters every day, replace them with blackout window treatments you can open all the way during the day and close at night.

Brighten the view outside

Maybe you’re too busy focusing on the indoors to see the forest for the trees. But all those trees and overgrown foundation shrubs can block natural light from reaching the house, so cut those bushes and trim those tree limbs. If necessary, call an arborist. Also, use plants with variegated or silver leaves in your landscape to reflect light indoors, and consider renovating your patio and paving it with something brighter.  

Replace doors

Doors present a great opportunity to let in more light, improve the view from inside and make the entry more welcoming. Since your front door is a reflection of your home’s personality, as well as your own, pick a style that’s appropriate to the architecture. If you’re concerned about privacy, choose one with stained glass or small windows at the top. Even a small amount of natural light will make a huge difference.

Clean windows

It ought to be obvious, but when was the last time you cleaned all your home’s windows, both inside and out? To avoid streaks on outdoor surfaces, don’t bother with the window cleaner and paper towels. Wash the windows with a sponge and mildly soapy water (dish soap will do), wipe dry with a squeegee, and finish them off with a soft chamois. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team No houseplant truly prefers to live in the dark, but the bulletproof indoor plants listed below come pretty darn close. All you need to grow these gorgeous houseplants is natural light — enough to comfortably read without turning on the lights.

ZZ plant

Looking more like the back of a stegosaurus than an actual plant, the ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) will survive extinction-level neglect without missing a single beat. The leathery green “fronds” make it look like a cross between a cycad and a philodendron. And you can rest assured they’ll continue to look like that, even if you miss a month of watering or keep it in an absurdly low amount of natural light. Make new ZZ plants by dividing the root ball or by planting leaf cuttings.

Cast iron plant

Understated yet elegant, the cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) has been popular since the Victorian age for its wide straps of deep, emerald-green foliage. Variegated types have patterns like cream bands and specks, but they may lose their markings if kept in low light for too long. Cast iron plants can survive considerable neglect, but keep the potting mix lightly moist for luxuriant foliage.

Snake plant

You can call it snake plant, mother-in-law’s tongue or even Sansevieria, just as long as you don’t call it boring. Sansevieria trifasciata “Laurentii” is the variety normally encountered, but there are many other varieties with an assortment of foliage markings and shapes. S. cylindrica, for example, has cylindrical, sage-green leaves that are spread out flat like a fan. The worst thing you can do to a snake plant is give it too much water, so let the potting mix dry out between waterings.

Lady palm

This is the most luxurious houseplant around, with fans of deep-green, glossy fronds on a compact clump of bamboo-like stems. They’re slow-growing and often expensive, but a lady palm can live an entire lifetime indoors with care and occasional repotting. To get the healthiest plant for your buck, keep the potting mix moist, and feed annually with a palm fertilizer. If the plant becomes root-bound, divide the root ball with a sharp knife, and pot up the divisions.

Peace lily

Getting a peace lily (Spathiphyllum) to live in low light is easy. Getting one to bloom, on the other hand, is not. That’s OK, though, because its fountain of glossy, blue-green leaves is more than attractive enough in its own right — especially if you clean the leaves and periodically change the potting mix to prevent browned leaf tips.

Pothos

Thanks to its apathetic nature and tolerance to just about anything, that blotchy-looking, golden pothos vine (Epipremnum aureum “Aureum”) has become so common that it’s downright boring. Luckily, interesting cultivars abound, such as the chartreuse-green “Neon” and the appropriately named “Silver Satin,” with its velvety, sage-green leaves. Pothos isn’t picky, but if your plant gets a little leggy, prune it back and root the cuttings in new flowerpots.

Chamaedorea palm

When it comes to palms, the Chamaedorea genus is chock-full of shade-tolerant species that can thrive indoors. Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans) is the most popular of them all for its bamboo-like fronds on narrow trunks, and the bamboo palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii) is practically the same thing, only larger. For a true conversation piece, however, grow metallic palm (Chamaedorea metallica). It has nearly iridescent, metallic, blue-green leaves, each bearing the shape of a mermaid’s tail. What could be cooler?

Mistletoe cactus

Mistletoe is probably the very last thing you’d think of upon hearing the word “cactus.” Mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis) grows in the shady rainforest, perched upon tree branches with other epiphytes, like orchids and bromeliads. Best of all, most members of the genus have long, leafless stems that drape down like wet spaghetti. One thing they do have in common with other cacti is their drought tolerance. Still, they do best with potting mix that isn’t allowed to dry out for long.

Philodendron

The common heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) that we all know and love is only the tip of the iceberg. For an even more exotic look, grow self-heading varieties like “Moonlight,” with its crown of lime-green foliage, or the huge divided leaves of the split leaf philodendron (P. selloum). Better yet, grow the three of them together in a single pot. To keep your philodendron healthy, keep the potting mix moist, and remove any yellowed leaves. Periodically check between the leaves and stems for pests. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Each zodiac sign gravitates to different home features, and consulting the stars can give you a fun perspective on your style. Read on to find your ideal home, based on your horoscope. And tell us in the comments if it sounds like you!

Aquarius (January 20 to February 18)

A dreamer and connector, you like a home that reflects your idealistic side. This means that, yes, you may have a far-out bungalow with mystical murals and bead curtains. But you may also want a home with a barn and a few acres of land to house your growing family of rescued animals — or even a group house or apartment to match your communal Aquarian vision.

Pisces (February 19 to March 20)

Deep and sensitive, you like to recharge at home so you’re fresh for heart-to-heart conversations out in the world. You love being near water, and you don’t mind if anyone thinks you take being a water sign too seriously. You may choose to live near a river or anywhere that involves a ferry commute. Of course, if you can swing it, your ideal house has a pool and an ocean view — or it might even float.

Aries (March 21 to April 19)

You’re enthusiastic and energetic, and you live for fun. When looking for a home, you think about all the ways you can thoroughly enjoy it. As a naturally impulsive risk-taker, you need a place to blow off steam so you can be more balanced out in the world. Your ideal home has a karaoke den, a climbing wall, or a trampoline.

Taurus (April 20 to May 20)

You have a reputation for being structured and steady, but you’re anything but boring — you have great taste and love the finer things in life. Since you’re an earth sign, you like being stable and comfortable, and you don’t feel pressured to go out. So it makes sense that you’d want all your favorite luxuries at home, like a custom wine cellar (or bar!) complete with comfy chairs.

Gemini (May 21 to June 20)

You’re the sign of the twins: friendly, talkative, and a little distracted. You’re a great communicator, so you need Wi-Fi everywhere in your home — you don’t want to miss an important tweet or Skype call. For in-person chats, you might opt for an old-school conversation pit in the living room. The important thing for a social butterfly like you is to keep your finger on the pulse, even at home.

Cancer (June 21 to July 22)

Empathetic and nurturing, you’re a natural caretaker. You may spend hours making jams and cookies for friends or lending a sympathetic ear whenever someone is stressed. For you, a well-equipped kitchen is a must, especially if it has an island where visitors can sit while you bake. As a caring Cancer, you’re also protective of your own space and family, so you’ll feel more secure when you invest in a solid deadbolt and alarm service.

Leo (July 23 to August 22)

You love attention, whether you’re giving it or receiving it. As the natural leader of your group, you love nothing more than hosting a big dinner party that brings all your friends together. You prefer a home with plenty of entertaining space, including a good-sized dining room, and guest bedrooms. Of course, you’ll also want superb bathroom lighting so you can style that mane.

Virgo (August 23 to September 22)

You’re naturally detail oriented, conscientious, and responsible. You love planning, organizing, and keeping your home neat as a pin. You live for a well-organized closet and pantry, where you can put everything in its place. Another Virgo dream home feature — a central vacuum, because the only thing better than organizing is cleaning.

Libra (September 23 to October 22)

Patient, balanced, and inquisitive, you love having a beautiful home, but you don’t need to live in a mansion to be happy. You’ll always put a home office to good use — not necessarily for working, but for designing a garden, creating a household budget, or planning vacations. As a Libra with wide-ranging interests, you tend to collect hobbies, so a craft room is a must.

Scorpio (October 23 to November 21)

As a secretive Scorpio, you don’t mind a home that’s a little dark — as long as you have some privacy from the neighbors. You may even lean into your dark side and choose an old home, especially one with a secret passageway, an intriguing history, or a nearby graveyard. Scorpios are very loyal, so once you’ve picked a home, you may not want to move for a while. Settle in, and outfit your den with sensuous fabrics and mysterious curios.

Sagittarius (November 22 to December 21)

You’re the zodiac’s explorer and traveler, so you need a home that can accommodate your wanderlust. That might mean motorcycle parking, an Airbnb-ready suite to fund your next journey, or a portable home — like a yurt. Sags are also spiritual seekers, so you may choose a home in a serene location, such as the desert or the mountains. At the very least, you need clean, white walls to display your souvenirs.

Capricorn (December 22 to January 19)

You’re hardworking and earnest, with a not-so-secret weird side. Adaptable and unshakeable like your emblematic goat, you’re comfortable just about anywhere. This means you can make the most of a studio apartment, but you’re also willing to restore an old house back to mint condition. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team The current trend of turning household bathrooms into spa-like retreats isn’t a bad one, per se. Whether waking up with a hot shower or relaxing before bed in a soothing bath, everyone appreciates a crisp, clean palette and great lighting for getting prepped. And neutrals make sense for installed features like bathtubs and sinks — things that are difficult and expensive to change. But a bathroom has the potential to be so much more than just a white box. The bathrooms we’ve designed, both for clients and in our own homes, have been spaces for color, personality, and a little bit of that sometimes dirty word: whimsy. Giving the bathrooms in your home more character makes for a quick, inexpensive, and exciting transformation. Here are a few of our favorite decorating tricks. Perhaps they can work in your home, too.

Paint it black. Or blue. Or how about pink?

While your bathroom’s tile and fixtures may be neutral, there’s no reason the walls should be. In fact, you can get away with bold, high-contrast colors in bathrooms precisely because there’s so much white to balance it out. Concerned that dark walls will make the room gloomy? Worry not — you’ll be safe thanks to the gleaming white tile and countertop. You can go particularly bold with color in powder rooms. These small spaces generally have little in the way of architectural details, so high-impact paint will go a long way, making them memorable at minimal expense. One thing to remember: Exercise caution when selecting hues, as the paint color will bounce around the room and onto your skin. Acidic green can make you look sickly, orange will give you an artificial tan, and a bright blue will drain color from your face. Besides making that first glance in the mirror a bit jarring, the wrong color can cause makeup application challenges.

Get that paper

What if you’re totally over paint? It’s time to graduate to wallpaper. The wide range of styles and patterns gives you remarkable freedom to redefine your bathroom. Wallpaper works particularly well in small spaces, where the color palette is tightly controlled, and the walls may be at least partially covered with built-ins, mirrors, or tile. The right pattern can make the room feel more cohesive and, in some cases, help raise the ceiling height to reduce claustrophobia. Use linear patterns — stripes, plaids, checks — to establish structure in rooms that lack architecture or have low ceilings. Organic patterns, like overscale florals or abstracts, can soften a room that has a busier floor plan or feels unwelcoming. While you have quite a bit of flexibility in wallpaper composition for powder rooms, bathrooms with showers are a good fit for vinyl papers and their moisture-resistant properties. As always, installation matters, and working with a professional paper hanger will give you the longest-lasting results.

Furniture for function and fun

In larger bathrooms or combined bathroom and dressing rooms, you may have a chance to introduce free-standing furniture. Built-in vanities and storage pieces can overwhelm a bathroom and make it a bit monotonous. To combat this with a little style, we’ve used  small dressers to add enclosed storage space, and bookshelves or smaller tables create a space for towels and toiletries. While bathrooms are frequently where we get dressed, many of them lack a place to sit down when doing so. Adding a small chair or stool — even a funky old armchair — improves function and style. When bringing furniture into the bathroom, keep scale in mind. Even in relatively large rooms, open wall space may be in short supply, and there’s the real risk of creating unnecessary obstacles. For best results, prioritize a tidy footprint.

Make bold statements with artwork

Sticking with neutral colors? Wallpaper not for you? No room for a funky armchair? OK, last chance: Give your bathroom some punch with great art. We’ve found that most people play it safe in bathrooms with small, framed prints or skip the art entirely. Nonsense! Go for impact with larger pieces — integrate something sculptural or even cover a wall with paint-by-numbers. Also, it goes without saying, but yes, your most precious pieces should stay in drier spots. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Real estate markets ebb and flow just like the seasons. The spring market starts hopping when the sun comes out, flowers bloom and winter is over. Conversely, fall signals the beginning of a slower market, which could be good for buyers. If you’re in the market for a home, here are some reasons why fall can be a great time to buy.

Leftover spring inventory may result in deals

Home sellers tend to go on the market for the first time in the spring. They often list their homes too high out of the gate, which could mean that a series of price reductions follow during the spring and the summer months. These sellers have fewer chances to capture buyers after Labor Day. By October, buyers are likely to find desperate sellers and prices that may, in fact, be below a home’s true market value.

Fewer buyers are competing

Families who want to be in a new home by the beginning of the school season are no longer shopping at this point. These families have exited the market, which means less competition. That translates into more opportunities for buyers. Taking out an entire segment of the housing market provides millennial, single, and baby boomer buyers some breathing room. You’ll likely notice fewer buyers at open houses, which could signal a great opportunity to make an offer.

Motivated sellers want to close by the end of the year

While a home is where an owner lives and makes memories, it is also an investment — and one with tax consequences. A home seller may want to take advantage of a gain or loss during this tax year. Buyers might find homeowners looking to make deals so they can close before December 31st and get that tax benefit. Ask why the seller is selling, and look for listings that offer incentives to close before the end of the year.

Homes for sale near the holidays signal a motivated seller

As the holidays approach, the last thing a homeowner wants is for their sale to be dragging on and interrupting their parties and events. If a home has not sold by November, and it’s still sitting on the market, that homeowner is likely motivated to be done with the disruptions caused by their home being listed for sale.

Many homes don’t show as well once the landscaping fades

The best time to do a property inspection is in the rain and snow, because the home will be truly exposed for buyers. The same holds true for fall, when flowers die, trees start to shed their leaves, and beautiful landscapes are no longer so lovely. Scratching the surface of the pretty spring home season and fall reveals home flaws, making it a great time to see each home’s true colors. It’s better to see the home’s flaws before making the offer, instead of being surprised months after you close. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team With no city lights for miles, The Pillars Estate stands alone in the darkest of nights. Inside, guests are greeted by dim candlelight, a windy staircase and a gentleman from Scotland. Tony McMurtrie purchased the Civil War-era estate in Albion, NY when it was ready to be torn down. Restoring it to its former glory over the past decade, he’s carefully curated every detail – from the grandfather clocks to the silver. “I don’t know where it comes from,” he explains. “I just like that time and that era.” His love of antiques and a refined way of life hasn’t gone unnoticed. Cora Goyette moved to Albion from England and bonded with McMurtrie over their shared appreciation of European culture. Today, she takes care of the 13,286-square-foot house as if it were her own, hosting tea parties and events in the grand ballroom. But unlike McMurtrie, Goyette won’t stay at The Pillars alone. In fact, most of McMurtrie’s friends refuse to spend the night. “A spirit really is within the house,” Goyette says without blinking an eye. “It’s quite serious.” Some believe he’s unlocked a haunted past, while others remain skeptical. The home at 13800 W Country House Rd is on the market, waiting for a buyer to set the record straight once and for all. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team If your home was built before 1970, you likely have one bathroom for your entire household. This probably means that everyone scrounges for counter space and fights over shower time, leaving you wishing for another bathroom. But how hard is it to add one? What kind of design do you need? Where would you even find room for it in your home? We posed all these questions and more to Lora Lindberg and Debbie Cederlind, house flipping pros and owners of Seattle-based Urban Squirrel. Here’s their expert advice on adding a bathroom to your home.

Location, location, location

According to Lindberg and Cederlind, finding a good location for your extra bathroom is half the battle — and completely depends on your home’s layout. When the designers were restoring a 1920s craftsman in Seattle, they added a powder room to the main floor to increase accessibility for guests who may not be able to use the stairs to get to the main bath. “First, we called our plumber. He had to figure out how to get water lines and waste lines [to the powder room]. We had to make sure it worked before we framed it in,” Lindberg recalls. To find a good spot in your own home, look at where the existing water and waste lines are, and make sure you have an existing wall that’s at least 2 feet by 4 feet. “The best scenario is keeping all your water in one area of the home,” advises Cederlind. “If you’re totally moving it to another side of the home, proximity to the waste lines is always important.” Another thing to keep in mind, the designers say, is that you have to run water and waste lines between floors, which can make adding a bathroom upstairs rather tricky, but not impossible. “Look at existing plumbing, then see if you can put another bathroom above or below and still tie into the existing waste lines. That’s key,” says Cederlind. Homeowners with single-story layouts will have the easiest time adding in a bathroom because they can simply run the water and waste lines through a crawl space below. But the duo says that no matter how many stories your home has, you still have to factor in an exhaust fan, which must vent to the home’s exterior, and the proper slope for the waste line, which must run downhill. Additionally, Cederlind and Lindberg always make sure they include a tub somewhere in the home, which can boost resale value. Master showers with double heads or seating are nice, but it’s important to have a tub somewhere in case you — or a future buyer — have kids.   You also need to think about what kind of natural light, if any, you can bring into the bathroom. “I’m a big fan of ventilation, like an open window,” says Cederlind. “We always try to incorporate that. Everything has to be ducted with fans now, but there’s something about cracking open a window in a bathroom. If you have an outside wall in your new bathroom space, adding a window for natural light is well worth it.”

Build to code  

Your city or state might have different building codes than what Lindberg or Cederlind adhere to in Seattle, but you should always ensure that your bathroom configuration is legal and that you have the correct amount of space around the fixtures. To really make sure your bathroom is up to code, it’s best to get a permit for the work. “Having a permit for your work usually makes buyers feel better, because they know the work was inspected. We’ve had to rip out a lot of poorly done DIY projects in the homes we remodel and start from scratch,” Cederlind says. Although getting a permit and working to code might take more time, it’s worth it in the end. Plus, it can guarantee that whoever is doing the work does it the right way. “We know our contractors, and they always do things to code, whether we get a permit or not. But if I were a homeowner hiring contractors for the first time, I’d want to know they’re being checked,” Lindberg says. Cederlind and Lindberg also advise working with licensed, bonded, and insured contractors so you’re protected in case anything goes awry.

When it comes to design, make it luxe

When Cederlind and Lindberg designed their powder room, their ultimate goal was to make it fun and luxurious. Because the space was so small, they hung a wall-mounted toilet and sink, which they rescued from the basement bathroom, and installed a pocket door to maximize space. They made the small space feel large and luxe with jewel-box paneling, a glamorous chandelier, and a bold paint color. “Designers like to go bold in powder rooms because they’re small, so it doesn’t take a lot of effort. Guests are mostly going to use it, so it’s a fun place to experiment and make them feel special,” Cederlind says.   When it comes to design, Cederlind and Lindberg suggest neutral, classic tones for tiles and fixtures, mixed with bold rugs, candles, and paint colors. But no matter how you design your extra bathroom, it’s going to add value. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team When the days get shorter and cooler, the sight of a cheery fire crackling away in a hearth instantly chases away the chill. Even a non-functional fireplace can give a room a cozy feel and create a charming focal point. If your fireplace lacks visual appeal, consider this low-cost makeover. With just a few pieces of trim and a gallon of paint, you can give your bland fireplace a dramatic cosmetic upgrade in just a weekend.

Before and after

Fireplaces like this are common in old houses. It’s painted brick and in need of an upgrade. Fireplaces should be the focal point of the room, and this one obviously wasn’t getting the job done. Here’s how it went from drab to fab.

1. Install trim

To make the fireplace instantly look grander than it is, use some basic pieces of trim to create the illusion that it extends all the way to the ceiling. Using 1″ x 4″ pieces of medium-density fiberboard (MDF), create a frame connecting the fireplace and ceiling. MDF is smoother than wood and will have a better finished look when painted. This trim is in no way weight bearing, so MDF will be plenty durable. Next, cut and install interior trim pieces within the frame. Attach trim pieces with Liquid Nails. The hold will be strong enough since, again, these pieces are not weight bearing. Plus, there won’t be any holes to patch before painting.

2. Caulk and sand

Caulk any gaps between trim pieces, and sand once dried.

3. Paint

Paint the frame and wall the color of your choice. To really make a statement, choose a color that contrasts greatly from your wall color. This glossy black stands out dramatically against the white walls, making the fireplace the focal point of the room.

4. Style your new fireplace

Once the paint dries completely, you can add accessories and decorative elements to enhance the fireplace’s visual appeal. Sconces hung in the openings between the frames, a contrasting fire screen and carefully chosen artwork finish off the fireplace. Add a comfortable chair and small end table to make the whole space come together. Now settle in and enjoy your home’s beautiful new centerpiece. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team The days are getting shorter, and the nights are getting cooler. The kids are trudging off to school again with their backpacks and light jackets, and leaves are starting to fall from the trees. Yep, it’s official: Fall is here. Now is the time to finish up any last-minute late-summer maintenance projects, and get your home and yard ready for fall. Just follow our easy checklist, and your home will soon be clean, warm, and ready for the cool days to come.

Exterior prep

• Fix cracks in concrete and asphalt. Depending on where you live, these may be the last weeks this year when it will be warm and sunny enough to repair driveway and sidewalk cracks.
• Clean out the gutters. No one loves this job, but we all need to do it annually. A few hours of work can prevent big problems later on. And while you’re up on that ladder, visually inspect your roof for damaged shingles, flashing, or vents. You can also inspect the chimney for any missing mortar, and consider tuck-pointing if needed.
• Turn off outdoor plumbing. Drain outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems, and cover them to protect them from freezing weather to come.
• Start composting. If you don’t already have compost bins, now is the time to make or get some. All those accumulated autumn leaves will bring you gardening gold next summer!
• Clean outdoor furniture and gardening tools. It may not be quite time yet to put them away, but go ahead and make sure your outdoor furniture and gardening tools are cleaned up and ready for storage over the winter.
• Plant bulbs for spring-blooming flowers. A joyous and beautiful sign of spring is when tulips and daffodils start popping up everywhere. Plant bulbs in October, as soon as the soil has cooled down, to reap big rewards next spring. If you’ve never planted bulbs before, select a spot in your yard that gets full sun during the day.

Interior prep

• Prepare your furnace for winter duty. If you didn’t already do it last spring, consider getting your furnace professionally serviced in time for the cold season. At the minimum, though, visually inspect your furnace and replace the furnace filter before turning it on for the first time.
• Clean the fireplace and chimney. Clean out the fireplace, make sure the flue is operating properly, and that doors and shields are sound. Have the chimney professionally swept if needed. Now is the time to stock up on firewood!
• Keep the warm air inside and the cold air outside. Inspect your windows and doors. Check weather stripping by opening a door, placing a piece of paper in the entryway, and closing the door. The paper should not be able to slide back and forth easily. If it does, the weather stripping isn’t doing its job. Also, now is the time to re-caulk around windows and door casings if needed.
• Light the way. Bring as much light into your home as you can for the colder, darker months. To accentuate natural light, clean your windows and blinds, especially in rooms that get a lot of sunlight. Add lighting to darker spaces easily with new lamps. And consider replacing traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient bulbs.
• Create a mudroom. Even if you don’t have a dedicated mudroom in your home, now is a good time to think about organizing and stocking an entryway that will serve as a “mudroom” area for cold and wet weather. Put down an indoor/outdoor rug to protect the floor. A fun and rewarding weekend project is to build a wooden shoe rack, coat rack, or a storage bench for your entryway.
• Home safety check. Replace the batteries in your smoke alarms and CO₂monitors. A good way to remember to do this is to always replace the batteries when you change the clock for “fall back.” Create a family fire escape plan, or review the one you already have. Put together an emergency preparedness kit so that you are ready for winter power outages.

Once you finish with your autumn home checklist, you will be ready to relax in your warm, comfortable home, and enjoy the season. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team It’s time to put down your pumpkin-scented beverage of choice, and gather some actual pumpkins. That’s how easy it can be to find fall decorations that set a festive tone for the season. Focus on adding simple decor to three key areas to make apple-pie days and chilly (or is it chili?) nights even cozier.

The dining table

Livening up your dining table with some fall flair is an obvious starting point, since you’ll likely be using it to serve a game day buffet or family feast. You don’t have to overdo it here to make a statement. A few pumpkins, candles, and flowers can make a beautiful table, and don’t require much effort.

For the flower arrangement, grab some greenery and flowers from the grocery store. Choose a vase with a narrow opening to help corral the flowers and make them easier to arrange. Put the greenery in first, then add the flowers stem by stem. For table linens and place settings, keep the colors neutral so your centerpiece can be the focus.

The living room

Many living rooms have a fireplace as the centerpiece. Dressing up your mantel for the season is the perfect way to make this gathering spot feel special. A bit of garland goes a long way on the mantle. Some fall-colored blooms, pinecones, and candles are great mantel decor. Drape some natural and seasonal garlands, like cotton branches, along the mantel to really make your space feel festive. Give the room a warm and welcoming feeling with a few cozy throws and pillows. Textures like fur and wool add a seasonally appropriate touch.

The kitchen

The kitchen is another great place to add a touch of fall. Find a few spots to place your accents, making sure they’re visible, but not in your way. Natural elements like a large pumpkin and pinecones piled in a bowl are all you need. To keep hot beverages and other libations at the ready, set up a drink station on the counter or on a bar cart. Copper mugs and vintage glassware look particularly celebratory. Focusing on a few key areas where your family and friends tend to gather will make your home feel welcoming and warm in the cooler days ahead. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.