By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team   Everybody agrees on the belief that top quality furniture brands can definitely make an impression, regardless of where they are used. The factors that create for you a greater look with many top furniture brands include their elegance, quality, design as well as the unique features which aren’t seen elsewhere. Are these luxury brands at your reach? With toughest competition and the online shopping revolutions, even best furniture brands are now offered by a very affordable price. Having the strategies of buying them cheap, without compromising on quality, will help you save a great deal. Getting assisted by someone who is familiar with the brands and models may also be useful. The key high end brands give many offers to the customers can use, offline and online. Some special types, offered on special seasons, will probably be having some discounts and surprise gifts. An important thing to make sure that you usually are not overpriced is to compare the top furniture brands. Right after a study around the basic pricing structure, go for one which is sensible. Aside from providing a classy look to your interiors, top quality brands offer better comfort than ordinary furniture items. Finding the optimum suited ones to your residence or office could make it rather attractive. The designs along with the color combinations should be compatible for the interior decorations of one’s room else the bucks spent on the luxurious furniture brands won’t be worth doing. Another area receive attention while purchasing royal class brands is the trends. Although latest trends will almost always be attractive, bear in mind that most of such trends will appear reduced in a short time. Selecting a moderate type, in design and comfort, would be the good decision when it is about high end brands. The leading furniture manufacturers allow bargain deals on the customers who are purchasing multiple items. Buying each of the furniture sets you need to your house or office once is going to be saving you a little extra bucks as well. The simple truth is topping brands can always be trusted because they are about the field for a very long time. Giving an attempt for the new companies mustn’t be avoided, but you need to be alert while choosing some expensive furniture items from such companies. The reviews of some other customers who already have bought a similar kind of furniture or suggestions through the interior designers could be making it a good deal when you are to buy the best form of furniture brands to your house or office, where both you and your family planning to spend the rest of your life. It should not be mentioned that this quality is among the most significant aspect in deciding the ideal brands, for what you’re paying needs to be worth the cost. The warranty or guarantee offers about the high-end furniture brands are important as you don’t need to lose your dollars a few weeks. 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team   Mediterranean style homes are increasing in popularity. It may be because it is reminiscent of the sunny Mediterranean coast or because it is a classic style. Whatever the reasons may be, Mediterranean style homes are here to stay. The best aspect is that EnviroCitizen.org has found that these homes are easy to convert into green homes. All it takes is a good design and you’ll get a stylish house with minimal impact on our planet and its resources. There are a few key elements in the design of a Mediterranean home. A low-pitched roof is one of the main distinguishing features. On that roof, red roof tiles are on top. A Mediterranean home typically has stucco siding. Then there are arches above doors, windows or porches. Lastly, the final element of the design is to have heavy carved wooden doors. The Mediterranean style home is easy to make green with the tile and stucco. They are products of concrete which is a reusable and recyclable material. If you are going to be using a stucco-like material, consider one made from fly ash. It is a component that is used in making cement. It is an industrial waste product that makes any product made from cement become green because less goes into the landfill. When done correctly, the Mediterranean style home can make the most of the sun. Daylighting is a form of passive solar that is a very green practice which works well with this style of home. This is a technique that doesn’t require any photovoltaic panels, just positioning and planning the cabin so sunlight is used efficiently. This allows for optimal solar use and less energy use. Look out for taller buildings and trees that will inhibit sunlight from reaching the building. Southern facing windows is best for passive heating, with east and west exposure being the most difficult to deal with. However, a site with poor solar exposure is not a poor site; it will simply require creative building design to take advantage of what exposure there is. If you think that a Mediterranean style home is for you and want a green one, you can easily design a plan that makes it sustainable. Contacting a green designer such as an architect that is LEED certified is a good start.  Green buildings are better for you and better for the Earth—a win-win situation! 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team   Stainless steel kitchen appliances are popping up all over the real estate market. Homebuyers are looking for stainless steel refrigerators, sinks, countertops, ovens and dishwashers. All of these lend kitchens a modern, sleek new look, but at prices that require some serious thought. Stainless steel comes in various grades and styles that have the potential to seriously raise your home value, but there are other things to take into consideration like appearance and energy efficiency. Take a look at our guide to stainless steel appliances below so that you can be armed with the information you need to make the stainless steel decision that is right for you.   Benefits of Stainless Steel Stainless steel is one of the most widely used metals in the world today due to its tough durability, rust-resistant trait, and aesthetic appeal. In kitchens, stainless steel appliances are popular because of the guaranteed longevity of use and because they’re easy to clean. The biggest complaint with stainless steel appliances, like refrigerators or dishwashers, is that they collect smudges, fingerprints, or water spots. These are all easily wiped away with a quick spritz of rubbing alcohol on a clean, soft cloth. Some newer stainless steel appliances even come with a polyester coat for “smudge-proof” convenience like this Frigidaire Refrigerator.   It Depends on the Look Stainless steel definitely adds the “wow” factor, but it must also blend in with the look of the house. If the room is dark due to subtle lighting or no windows, then lighter-colored appliances often fit best. However, if the room has lighter colors and high-end fixtures, then stainless steel adds great appeal. Also, keep in mind that stainless steel adds a modern look. So, if your cabinets and countertops are old-looking, stainless steel may look over-the-top for the space you have. However, if your kitchen looks newer and is open with lots of space, then stainless steel can really add zest to this often-used room. Remember, uniformity of look within your kitchen is also important. You don’t want to end up with a clashing set of appliances like a stainless steel dishwasher sitting next to your white refrigerator that’s across from your black oven. Instead, make the effort to match the color and style of all of your appliances.   Faux Stainless Steel If you decide that re-outfitting all of your appliances in stainless steel is too expensive, you can still make your existing kitchen appliances look appealing. Start out by giving everything in your kitchen a good cleaning. Then, consider adding a coat of appliance paint to any of your appliances that have seen better days. Or simply take advantage of this neat product to create a uniform look throughout the kitchen. Appliance paint comes in a number of different colors, including faux stainless steel. So, you could simply repaint your existing appliances with a product likeThomas’ Liquid Stainless Steel to give your kitchen an instant makeover without actually committing to the cost of a stainless steel upgrade. Or, if you decide to replace only one or two of your appliances with stainless steel, you can use this type of paint to make sure the rest of your existing appliances match in color, if not style.   Think Green to Save on Silver Another thing to consider is that you may want to focus on modern appliance features instead of the style they come in. Homebuyers want kitchens with matching appliances that work well and don’t run up the bills. A less expensive, quiet, energy-efficient white dishwasher may be more practical for refurbishing purposes than the silver look of a high end stainless steel dishwasher that takes a serious hit on the wallet. Eco-friendly appliances certainly add home value to potential buyers who know they can save hundreds of dollars per year in utility bills with energy efficient appliances that use 10 to 50 percent less energy and water than their traditional counterparts.  Ask an Expert It’s always a good idea to see what appliances are hot in your local real estate market by talking to a local realtor. If everyone is switching over to stainless steel, then keeping your old appliances could take a hit on your home value. But if you’ll be the only one for miles around with gourmet stainless steel kitchen appliances, then you could end up increasing your kitchen’s value so much in comparison with your neighbors that it becomes an unaffordable option for potential homebuyers. Final Tip: If you have your heart set on new appliances, but aren’t sure you can foot the bill, then try this smart shopping tip: Go to several local appliance stores and ask if they are selling any floor models or slightly scratched or previously opened appliances for a discount. Oftentimes, you can find brand new appliances in perfectly good working condition for a fraction of the original price due to small aesthetic damages. Sometimes, you can even get a full warranty with these products. Remember, it never hurts to ask! 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team   Known for tiled roofs and stucco finishes, Mediterranean-style homes are frequently found in states with warm climates and Spanish histories.   A potpourri of influences fromSpain,Italy,Portugaland other countries around the Mediterranean region of the world can be found in the architectural style that today bears the same name. Mediterranean architecture inNorth America, which was extremely popular from 1918 to 1940, echoed the haciendas in the Spanish New World with their red tile roofs, arches and plaster made rough to resemble plastered adobe. Many homes inCaliforniaandFlorida, states which have Spanish, histories, were built in this style. Over time, flourishes from other European countries (France,Italy,Greeceand the Balkans), could be found in the houses. Asian inspirations fromTurkey,CypressandLebanonjoined North African countries likeTunisia,MoroccoandAlgeriain the mix. Today, many ornate homes that combine elements from any of those countries are calledMediterranean(or Neo-Mediterranean) because of the composite of cultural influences from that region. Houses may feature terraces or courtyards, stucco finishes, porticos, balconies or any number of elements inspired by houses on theMediterranean. “Some of the earliest Mediterranean is Churrigueresque,” says Merry Ovnick, associate professor of history atCaliforniaStateUniversity, Northridge, explaining that the Spanish Baroque styles in grand buildings stemmed fromMexicoandPeru. “In the 1920s, people didn’t want to talk about copying Mexican things, so they called it Spanish revival. Houses with classical columns around the driveway picked up from northernItaly. The greater formality came fromItalyorNorth Africa.” In the 1920s and 1930s, Hollywood movies featured romantic Mediterranean sets, and celebrity magazines showed stars living in Spanish Colonial, Tudor or small castle-like houses, creating the peak period for construction of Mediterranean homes, says Ovnick, author of Los Angeles: The End of the Rainbow (1994, Balcony Press), a book documenting architecture as a Southern California phenomenon. The Depression put a damper on home building, and after World War II, the emphasis moved to simple stucco tract housing. But in the 1960s, Mediterranean homes began gaining in popularity again. While they can be found across theUnited States, most are inCalifornia,Floridaand Southern states, all of which have Mediterranean-like climates. Key Elements

• Red tiled roof. These roofs copied those of Spanish and Mexican missions, which were made out of clay pots and bricks, shaped like half a tube to shed water easily. The air pocket in the tunnel of the half-tube helped to keep air cool; the tiles were fireproof.
• Stucco walls. A stucco finish protects exterior wall surfaces from rain, sunlight and hot temperatures, common in Mediterranean climates.
• Arches. This feature goes back to Roman times, and is a self-supporting element that allows building of lighter weight and sturdier walls. Each of the stones next to the keystone in the arch atop the side columns distributes weight to the sides and downward.
• Ornamental detail. Houses usually feature flourishes ranging from large, heavy wooden doors with ornate carvings to the use of multicolored tiles for the risers of staircases.

Famous Examples

• Smith-Heberton House. Nicknamed “El Hogar” (Spanish for “hearth”), this 1916 Mediterranean home in Montecito, California, was designed by architect George Washington Smith, a well-known proponent of the style in the early 20th century.
• Frances Marion and Fred Thomson House. ThisBeverly Hills,CA,  house was built by Wallace Neff, a prominent architect of Mediterranean homes, for screenwriter Frances Marion and her movie star husband, Fred Thomson, in 1925.
• Fred C. Aiken House. Architect Addison Mizner launched a “Florida renaissance” inBoca Raton,FL, turning the small, unincorporated town into a luxurious Mediterranean resort community with houses that featured Moorish columns and spiral staircases suspended in mid-air. This 1926 house, on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, was owned by Aiken, who served asBoca Raton’s mayor from 1929 to 1938.

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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team

 

Wall-to-wall carpeting used to be pretty boring stuff: a neutral field of smooth-cut pile, without a lot of excitement or character. But like everything else in the house, carpet has gone high-style — not to mention high-tech. Synthetic yarns, advanced dyeing techniques, and new manufacturing processes now produce carpet with more texture, color, durability, and stain resistance than ever before. “New looms can combine different piles to create a pattern, like a floral or geometric print,” says Gary Johnston, global brand manager at Stainmaster. The result is carpets that are not simply backgrounds for the rest of your decor but focal points in their own right. What to Look For The most important thing to keep in mind when selecting a carpet is how much foot traffic it will get. For the busiest areas, look for a dense construction. “Lay a carpet sample on the table and run your fingers through it. You don’t want to be able to see the backing of the carpet,” says Barbra Wilson, manager of technical information at the Carpet and Rug Institute. You’ll also want a shorter pile height — the general rule is half an inch or less. In a cut-pile carpet, look for a good, tight twist of the yarn bundles. In looped carpet, look for smaller, tighter loops. Less-trafficked areas give you more freedom, allowing you to choose from plush cut-pile Saxonys to twisty friezes (for details, see “Pile Style”). Next, consider the material the carpet is made of. Wool is the industry benchmark. “It’s what every other fiber is trying to be,” says M.J. Pullins, marketing director at Stanton Carpet. “It doesn’t crush or fade. It’s naturally fire-retardant, hypoallergenic, discourages the growth of bacteria, and even regulates the room’s humidity.” But because it tends to cost more than other fibers, wool accounts for a relatively small share of the market. Two-thirds of all carpeting purchased in theUnited Statesis made of nylon, thanks to its colorfastness, resilience, and easy maintenance. Olefin (also called polypropylene) is another durable, colorfast, and reasonably priced synthetic. Often used for level-loop and Berber carpet, olefin resists static, moisture, and mildew better than other fibers and can even be used outdoors. Polyester is not as resilient as other fibers, but it’s soft to the touch and easily cleaned. Acrylic is most often used in velvet and level-loop constructions; it looks and feels like wool and gives you the most bang for your buck. 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team

 

With kitchen remodels leading the way when it comes to large scale home improvements, kitchen appliances have evolved into some of the most sophisticated, technologically advanced, and convenient home appliances on the market. If you’re ready to remodel your kitchen, here are 10 of the most cutting edge and innovative kitchen appliances to hit the scene in recent years. Installing any, or all, of these wonderful inventions will transform your kitchen from something out of date to darn near futuristic in the blink of an eyeýor should we say a few clicks of the egg timer? #1: Steam Assist Ovens Steam assist ovens utilize steam in the cooking process to produce better tasting food and faster cook times. Because they use steam to cook, usually with convection heating, they reduce almost all need for basting, misting, and water bathing. These ovens are also fully computerized, and electronically monitor the amount of steam used based on the dish type you enter in on the keypad. Truth is, these appliances practically cook dinner for you! #2: Induction Cooktops Induction cooktops generate electromagnetic fields to heat up your pots and pans rather that the cooktop itself. Sounds hard to believe, but you can literally boil a pot of water on a burner and then set your hand on it moments later without experiencing any ill effects. Add to that the fact that induction cooking is up to twice as efficient as natural gas or traditional electric heating elements, and it’s easy to see why this futuristic cooking method is catching on fast. #3: Microwave Drawers Microwave drawers are undercounter microwaves that electronically slide out like a drawer rather than requiring you to open a door. The benefits of these units include saving space, blending your microwave seamlessly into your cabinet design, easier microwave access, and more kid-friendly operation. #4: Dishwasher Drawers Dishwasher drawers operate on the same principle as microwave drawers. Instead of a clumsy looking traditional dishwasher, you can install dishwasher drawers fitted with your own custom cabinetry. The drawers look like any other drawer in your kitchen, but pull out to reveal a functional dishwasher instead! #5: Oven Refrigerators That might read like a typo the editor missed, but it’s an actual product that is taking the kitchen appliance industry by storm. These ovens refrigerate food during the day while you’re at work, then convert to an oven at a pre-set time so your dinner is ready for you to eat when you pull into the driveway. These units are perfect for today’s hard working professionals and busy families. #6: Built-In Rotisserie Ovens Built in rotisserie ovens are just what they sound like. Instead of taking up valuable counterspace with that rotisserie cooker, you can have a built in rotisserie installed much like you would a more traditional oven. Imagine cooking everything from mouthwatering chicken to tender roasts without the hassle of dragging that bulky rotisserie cooker out of the pantry. It’s almost too good to be true. #7: Lift Ovens Lift ovens have cavities that drop down like an elevator lift, rather than requiring you to open a door and place your food inside. You set whatever it is you’re cooking on the lowered tray, push a button, and the entire setup raises into the oven and starts cooking. These are convenient additions for any homeowner, but they are especially useful for the elderly and those with disabilities, since they eliminate the need to bend over and place dishes in, or remove them, from a traditional oven. #8: Computerized Refrigerators Computerized refrigerators come with an actual computer and screen built right into the main door. You can access the internet, bring up stored recipes, and even check e-mail while you prepare dinner! #9: Water Stations Water stations are kitchen islands outfitted with multiple sinks (usually in a circular fashion) so that you and a handful of friends can prep dinner in each other’s company. With these handy additions, there’s no need to miss out on socializing just because you ran out of time to get dinner together before your guests arrived! #10: Kitchen Entertainment Centers Kitchen entertainment centers are transforming the time cooks spend in their kitchen. They come with a full range of radio receivers, television consoles, and CD and DVD players. They can be installed on the wall, as undercounter models, or as undercabinet additions. Any way you cut it, these all-in-one units change cooking from an isolated endeavor to a multi-media experience! 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team

 

The Mediterranean house plan is defined by an open style with large exterior windows, a low-pitched, tiled roof, and stucco or brick siding. This openness hearkens toward pleasant weather, making the Mediterranean house plan a favorite for warm climate locales. While any house plan seeks a stunning appearance, few equal the raw curb appeal of the Mediterranean design. Its hallmark archways and verandas provide a sense of luxury without going over the top. You’re not going to choose a Mediterranean house plan for a tiny bungalow-sized house, but your house doesn’t have to break the bank, either. One-story or two, large or small, a Mediterranean house plan is an architectural style that can be tailored to meet any budget. Mediterranean Home Plan Features There is no one feature that defines a Mediterranean home plan. Extensive window installations, low-pitched roofs, and customary vaulted ceilings create the customary Tuscan feel, but the desired effect should be more important than any strict guidelines that must be met to create an authentically Mediterranean style home. Tied to the mild climate of theMediterranean, the home’s exterior design is usually only part of the equation. Landscaping is often an integral part of the puzzle. Courtyards, swimming pools, semi-elaborate gardening, and other landscaping emphasize the same openness you find inside the house. In many ways, your yard becomes the buffer that creates the privacy the windows would otherwise betray. 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team   The most frequent question that I get from perspective customers is “ What type of carpet should I buy?” Instead of coming up with a quick answer, my response is to start asking probing questions. The first question I ask is “why do you want to replace your carpet?”   Understanding the motivation behind a customer wanting to change their carpet will give me a starting pointing in my recommendation.   When I met with Rick and Sally Brown about replacing their carpet, they explained to me that they were expecting their first child and they wanted to buy a carpet would be best for their new baby.   Again, instead of giving Sally and Rick a quick recommendation, I felt it was important to probe a little further, so I asked them to tell me what was the most important characteristics of their new carpet. They said that a carpet has to be easy to clean, reasonably priced and soft enough for their baby. After gathering the characteristics that were important to the family, now we can look at the three primary fabrics(fibers) to choose from.   Nylon: Nylon is the strongest fiber of all the carpets. It has excellent resistance to abrasion, insects, molding, mildew, rot, and many chemicals. It is also easy to maintain, and dye, while upholding its color admirably.   With all of these advantages, nylon makes quite a formidable carpet. Thus, it is the main choice for residential use, accounting for 9 of 10 homes. With such a large hand in the residential carpet business, it would be expected that nylon carpet holds up well in traffic, hides soil, and is available in brilliant colors. Which indeed it does all very well. Nylon carpet is priced averagely, not quite as expensive as wool, but more expensive than polypropylene, and polyester.   Nylon does have its disadvantages. For example, nylon carpet is quite susceptible to stains. Nevertheless, manufacturers have developed methods for increasing stain resistance. One method, adding acid dye stain blocker to the carpet, greatly increases its stain resistance. The longevity of nylon carpet depends on the quality you buy.   Midlevel and high-end carpet can last up to 12 to 15 years. However, it does come at a cost. Prices range anywhere from 25 to 50 dollars per square yard. On the other hand, you can buy it quite cheap if your willing to have a lower grade of quality. At 8 dollars per square yard, you will get you basic nylon carpet. Then again, it will lose its color brightness and fade at a much quicker pace. It will also tend to lose its bounce, and relax. However, this is the case with any low-end carpet.   PET (recycled): Also, it is more stain resistant than nylon carpet. However, nylon carpet is much stronger than polyester, which tends to shed more. Additionally, it is quite resistant to mildew, and moisture (at a cheaper cost than nylon). It is also non-allergenic. Another thing to point out about polyester is that some of it (if not all) is made from recycled bottle caps. Which may improve indoor air quality. About 50 soda bottle caps go into a square yard of carpet. Which is a great talking point. It is also quite cheap, cheaper than wool, and nylon. Then again, you have to remember, when purchasing the recycled version of this carpet, it is actually made of plastic. So, it would be a good idea to first test this in a single room, before going all out with this environmentally friendly carpet. You might notice a gleam when looking at it, or squeak when walking across it   Olefin: Polypropylene, (also called olefin) is the prime choice for commercial carpet, and outdoor carpet. Depending on the cut, it will wear very well, clean easily, and is suitable for high traffic areas. It is inherently stain resistant. In fact, its stain resistance is so high you can spill chlorine on it, or other harsh chemicals, and it will have little effect. Coupled with these two factors, it is also very cheap, cheaper than wool, nylon, and polyester. For these reasons, polypropylene continues to gain popularity. Due to its high resilience to sunlight, mildew, and moisture; polypropylene is an excellent choice for an outdoor carpet, and is actually used for artificial sports turf.   However, with all these benefits, comes disadvantages. Polypropylene is not exactly ‘crush resistant’ and can be prone to matting, crushing, and general scuffs. This also depends on the pile cut. It is also difficult to dye. Additionally, polypropylene attracts a lot of oily soil. Though this can be canceled out by the fact that strong chemicals may be used to clean it.   Floors must withstand your lifestyle. They get nicked by high heels, crusted by muddy boots and crushed by furniture legs. Sunlight, moisture, pets, stains, spills, and childhood accidents all leave marks. Yet it’s common to focus on how a floor covering looks and forget how it will wear. Carpet There are four clear choices when it comes to floor covering: carpet, wood, tile, and vinyl. Carpet cuts down on noise and hides problems with subflooring. It also offers wobbly toddlers a softer landing, and warms your toes on chilly mornings. Damage can be repaired using leftover carpet, if the wear and fading have not been extensive. For those who suffer from allergies, carpet squares can provide a viable option. These squares are completely removable and can be cleaned outdoors to avoid stirring up dust mites and allergens. No matter the health concerns, carpet must be vacuumed regularly and shampooed annually, at the very least, to ensure a quality floor covering. Wood Floors Wood flooring is a popular choice for many reasons. Wood floors don’’t harbor dust, bacteria, or dust mites the way that carpet can. Wood floors come in natural styles, are durable and, when properly sealed and finished, can be cleaned with a wet mop. Woods such as oak, cherry, or fir don’t dent as easily as pine, and most gouges can be restained to hide the damage. Hardwood floors can be left their natural color or given a stain, ranging from light (blond) to dark (cherry). Simulated wood products, such as Pergo, look like wood but are made of synthetic rubbers that won’t scratch or dent as easily as the real thing — yet they offer the same visual appeal as wood, including the grain that defines hard woods. These synthetic floors are particularly well suited to high-traffic areas like kitchens and mudrooms. Vinyl Vinyl makes perfect sense in kitchens, dining areas and entryways where water and grime collect. Vinyl cleans up well, looks attractive, and resists damage from furniture legs and falling objects. Vinyl squares, sold in 12- and 16-inch sizes, are the easiest floor product to install, bar none. They have a peel-and-stick backing, which allows them to go directly onto a prepped floor, and eliminates the mess of working with an adhesive. Vinyl squares also come in styles that mimic ceramic tile, but without the risk of chipping and cracking. Vinyl sheeting is an excellent choice for bathrooms and laundry areas, though sheeting must be cut to the exact size before being laid. Vinyl sheeting, unlike tiles, is not a peel-and-stick product, so you’ll need to apply glue to the floor before laying in the precut sheet. Price and quality vary depending on the thickness, pattern, and design of the floor covering. Ceramic Tile Ceramic tile has decorated floors since the days ofGreece,Persia, andRome. Today’s ceramic tiles boast brighter colors, and more elaborate patterns and styles. Fired ceramic is rugged and hard, functional and beautiful. Because it is non-porous, ceramic tile withstands moisture, and is well suited for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Its beauty makes it an elegant choice for living areas, as well. Installing ceramic tile is a major undertaking, however, even in a small area such as a front or rear entryway. This is not a job for the faint-hearted or weak of knees. If you do it yourself, you will spend much time on your hands and knees, will learn to trowel, and will become adept with a tile cutter. 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team

 

Average: $618

Low – High Cost: $100 – $1,500 The industry recommended time to have carpets cleaned is every 12-18 months, yet the average homeowner has her carpets cleaned every 7 years. “If it vacuums up, then it ain’t dirty,” as the old saying goes. The reason for the discrepancy between the time recommended and the span before they are actually cleaned results from the public not knowing how often this should be done, not to mention some misconception about costs. This article works towards solving these issues and a few others as well. Average Carpet Cleaning Costs The average home has about 1000 square feet (sq ft) of carpet. The national average for carpet cleaning costs on this size home is $.30/sq ft, which brings the actual carpet cleaning cost to $300. So the typical home spends around $43 a year for clean carpets, if the carpets in that home are being cleaned every 7 years. If you happen to have more carpet than a typical home, you are likely to get a per sq ft discount, since your home is a bigger job. However, cleaning carpet costs will go up if you have less. Less is More In order for carpet cleaning companies to make a profit on homes with less than 1000 sq ft of carpet, they have to raise the price per sq ft. The company still has to drive out to your house, unroll all of their hoses, set up their equipment, do the work, and then break it all back down. This takes time. So don’t feel that you are being ripped off if your price per square foot is higher than your neighbors’. This is an industry standard. Trick of the Trade If carpet cleaning costs are more than you think they should be, here are a few ways that can help you cut down on costs. If you schedule a regular yearly cleaning with your carpet company, you are likely to be able to negotiate for a lower price. With homeowners cleaning their carpets every 7 years, you will be way ahead of the curve and in the position to ask for a discounted price, since you are such a regular customer. Next, most companies who clean carpets also do other cleanings, such as upholstery and ducts. If you bundle all of the chores together and have them performed by the same company on the same trip, even though the entire cleaning will cost more, you will be saving money on each individual process, since they are only making one trip. The Final Word The items and prices listed above are just averages that we have gathered from our carpet services across the nation. Not every service will give you the same price or negotiate for the same kind of deals. However, if you think that the price you were quoted for your cleaning is too high, be sure to get several estimates so that you can see if your area just charges a higher rate. *Remember. Carpets last longer and look better with regular cleanings, plus carpet traps dust, dander, and allergens that can cause health issues. This is an inexpensive process that does wonders for your home and family. 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

  By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team   Desert summit view homes are among the major reasons why a lot of homebuyers and property investors love to go to Scottsdale, Arizona. Since the founding in the early 19th century of Scottsdale, it has metamorphosed from an odd community of citrus farms and cattle ranches into a bustling modern community of self-driven home starters, moneyed middle agers and empty nesters. Its unique resort living is what makes it tick and its appeal cuts across the entire spectrum of buyers and property investors. A significant number of communities with desert summit view homes feature golf course, tennis courts, recreational centers, shopping establishments and other modern amenities. While you would no longer see any traces of its storied past, this vast cosmopolitan community still retains the charm and rich reputations of its early settlers, including those of the moneyed Midwesterners, who successfully built their fortunes on huge landholdings in this part of Arizona. The communities in Scottsdale are as diverse as its local landscape. These high-end communities boast of an elegant mix of golf casitas, condominiums, single family and patio homes that offer the best views of the desert summit. For a community that is right at the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale is interestingly an oasis of verdant landscape. This vibrant community is known for the Indian Bendwash and its world-class golf courses. It is straddled by a number of parks that boast of sports facilities, small fishing lakes and miles of bike paths. You can comfortably reach various destinations and attractions in Scottsdale riding your bike. Luxury and stylish living in Scottsdale has always been associated with high-value desert summit view homes in Estancia, Desert Highlands, The Boulders, Winfield, Troon and Mirabel. The erstwhile laidback downtown area is now teeming with a lot of amazing attractions and activities. It features several art galleries, a rich collection of fine restaurants and other food outlets, a modern shopping mall and a bevy of old resorts. Scottsdale is going through massive development and change and after several years of planning, a major improvement program worth $2.5 billion targeting the downtown area has been launched. The improvement plan consists of the construction of boutique hotels cum residential complexes, townhomes, condominiums and fine restaurants. It is because of the major projects and developments in this cosmopolitan community that we are witnessing a sharp increase in the demand for desert summit view homes inScottsdale,Arizona. Indeed, this is the best time to consider our home buying options in high-end communities inScottsdale as these areas are expected to become one of the most expensive communities in the metro area. So, if you are looking for some great buying options, then you need to include in your range of top choices the desert summit view homes inScottsdale. 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.