Door Handle & Locks by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

October 17, 2019 Joe Szabo

Installing a front door handle and lockset is a quick and easy way to add curb appeal to your home. Before you begin, make sure your door has standard preparation boreholes for a knob/lever and deadbolt combination. This type of preparation means that the door has two sets of boreholes and cross bores, one on top of the other, 5-1/2 inches from center to center. Both boreholes should be 2-1/8 inches in diameter, with the cross bores measuring 1 inch in diameter. The back set measures between 2-3/8 and 2-3/4 inches from the edge of the door to the center of the cross bore. The thickness of the door should be between 1-3/8 and 1-3/4 inches. Be aware of the dimensions of your new handle so that it fits properly on the door. Use caution when using an electric drill to install any screws. It could easily strip the screw threads or damage the hardware. Do not tighten to screws too tightly—you can always go back later and tighten. Once you’ve measured and prepped, you’re ready to install a new door handle and lock. Follow our step-by-step instructions to get started.

How to Install a Door Handle and Lock

Supplies Needed

Door knob/handle kit (we used the Addison handleset from Schlage)
Deadbolt kit (if not included)
Tape measure
Pencil
Utility knife, if needed
1-inch chisel, if needed
Power drill (or Philips screwdriver with a long shaft)
Countersink bit (if using a drill)
Flathead screwdriver, optional
Hammer
Block of wood

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow our instructions for installing a front door handle and lockset to get a fresh look you love and enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Step 1: Install the Latch

Determine whether you want to use a flat, rectangular faceplate or a round drive-in faceplate. (Many kits come with both options.) If you want to use a flat faceplate but do not have an indent on the edge of your door to fit it over the cross bore, trace the outline of the faceplate with a pencil and score the outline with a utility knife so the wood doesn’t splinter. Use a 1-inch chisel to chisel out a rectangle 1/8-inch deep (it must be flush with the door jamb), 1 inch wide, and 2-1/4 inches tall, centered around the cross bore. Once you have an indent on the edge of your door, slide the latch into the cross bore, with the bevel facing the door jamb, and secure it against the indent with two short screws. If you prefer the smaller round drive-in faceplate, use a flathead screwdriver to remove the screws on the flat faceplate and support plate. Install the round drive-in faceplate over the latch and push down to secure. Slide the latch and drive-in faceplate into the cross bore with the bevel facing the door jam, and push in until tight. Use a hammer with a block of wood between it and the latch to gently pound it into place (until flush with the edge of the door) without damaging the hardware.

place door handle into door holes and secure

Step 2: Install the Outside Handle

If your new door handle attaches to the door at a point below the lower borehole (like ours), you may need to drill another hole to accommodate. Line up the spindle on the back of the handle with the slot in the latch, sliding any mechanisms up or down as needed to fit the handle onto the door.

add screw to interior door handle to secure

Step 3: Install the Inside Handle

Line up the inside handle or lever so that the screw holes align vertically with the threaded posts on the back of the outside handle. If your inside handle is a lever, make sure that the lever is pointing away from the door jamb. Secure with screws. If your outside handle is attached to the door by a lower spindle (like ours), attach a washer, screw, and cover to secure and finish the spindle on the inside of the door.

secure dead bolt hardware onto door edge

Step 4: Install the Deadbolt

Repeat the procedure above for creating a faceplate indent if your lock calls for one and your door does not already have one. Fit the latch bolt into the upper cross bore, making sure the top is facing up (there is usually an arrow on the latch bolt to indicate). Screw the faceplate in to secure. Install the deadbolt mechanisms on the inside and outside, making sure the keyed cylinder part is on the outside of the door. The inside thumb turn should point up when unlocked, and point towards the door jamb when locked.

Step 5: Install the Strike Plates

Align the strike plate for the handle against the door jamb and attach with two small screws. Make sure the bent lip of the strike plate is facing the direction in which the door opens. Align the strike plate for the deadbolt, pre-drill your holes, and attach the strike plate to the door jamb with two longer screws for extra reinforcement. Alternate between the two long screws as you drill them in so that the strike plate does not get pushed out of alignment. Test the latch and the deadbolt to make sure both slide in and out smoothly but not loosely. If the bolt won’t turn all the way, drill the bolt hole a little deeper until it does. Alternatively, you may need to adjust the position of the strike plate. 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.

Choose the Right Fireplace

October 15, 2019 Joe Szabo

Do you have a fireplace that operates inefficiently? Have you been considering going with a new fireplace insert to create a better warming environment and cut down on the monthly utility bills? Good move. Many homeowners are enjoying the benefits that fireplace inserts provide, and you could be one of them. Here’s how to choose the right fireplace insert. The right fit for your fireplace insert Step one in choosing the right fireplace insert is getting the right size. Modern inserts come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and with a little investigating, you’ll find the perfect one for your fireplace. When measuring the opening of your fireplace, measure from side to side and from top to bottom. If the top of your fireplace mouth forms an oval shape, take three up-and-down measurements: one on each side and one in the center. What is your fuel preference? After you know the dimensions of the insert that will fit your fireplace, decide if you want your fires to run on gas or wood. The inserts you’ll find in a good hearth store will all be constructed for high-efficiency operation, but there are a few other things to think about. For the budget-conscious, a wood-burning fireplace insert is probably the wisest choice, because wood is less expensive to burn than gas. Additionally, a wood fire in an insert produces far less smoke than in a traditional “open” fireplace. This, coupled with the fact that wood in its natural state (i.e., tree) absorbs toxins from the atmosphere, means your fireplace is a carbon-neutral heating source.

Gas, however, is more convenient than wood. With a gas fireplace insert, starting a fire is as easy as flipping a switch. Controls allow you to adjust the flame level and therefore the amount of heat produced by the unit. A fireplace run on gas also requires no cleaning of ashes and wood chips from the firebox. A fireplace insert as an accent to your home décor Armed with the dimensions of your fireplace and the knowledge of what type of fuel you want to burn, the next step is a more creative one. With the many styles and finishes of fireplace inserts, it won’t be hard to select a model that compliments the design of your fireplace and your overall room décor. Also consider the features you prefer. Here are a few of the options with a new insert:

Efficiency rating
Heating square footage
Heating time
Self-cleaning glass
Remote control
Accent lighting

A fireplace insert, whether gas-burning or wood-burning, brings many benefits to the homeowner, one of the greatest being a hotter and more efficient heat source. When shopping at a retailer, make sure to ask all the questions you can think of to make sure you choose the right fireplace insert for your home. 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.

Fall Home Checklist by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

October 10, 2019 Joe Szabo

It’s time to put away your light clothing as summer has officially ended. With the fall season upon us, it is a wonderful time to embrace new changes, as while the trees may shed their leaves, all of nature would once again wake up once spring comes.

Yet while fall is an exciting concept, with it comes the looming inevitably of winter. Thankfully, before the cold weather fully sets in, every homeowner is given the chance to prepare for it. You can use the fall season to prepare for winter, so when the latter comes, you would be prepared and snug in your cozy house.

Here’s a handy fall home maintenance checklist for you Arizona folks.

Set a good foundation.

Before you tinker with things indoors, make sure that your house is ready for winter. If there are any signs of weaknesses in your exterior, moisture can seep in and damage your walls and foundation.

Avoid this by inspecting your windows, sidings, doors, walls, driveways, and foundation, among others, for cracks and any signs of weakness. Experts say that if the gaps between your door frames or window and siding are already bigger than the width of a nickel, then you need to reseal it. Reseal any cracks you see and reapply caulking as needed. This will save you money from costly repairs come springtime, and would also ensure that your home is as airtight as it can be when it comes to keeping the cold out.

Look up!

You may be lax about your roof maintenance for the most part of the year, but you will be in for a rough few months if you don’t maintain it properly. Remember that fall can bring in all sorts of debris, such as leaves and whatnots that can all pile onto your roof. There have been numerous instances where roofs have caved in because of the intense amount of weight that is the result of several years of neglect!

What’s more, your roof will keep you protected during winter, and will help keep out the cold weather. As such, have your roof inspected this fall to ensure that it won’t drip all over you when it rains. Clean out your rain gutters and repair or replace any broken, loose, damaged, or missing shingles. While you already have someone up there, have that person check out your chimneys and vent stacks too.

Check out your outdoor plumbing

Outdoor plumbing is a godsend if you are muddy and don’t want to bring it indoors, or when you are washing your cars or cleaning your home’s exterior. Unfortunately, it can become a liability come winter, as burst pipes are among the more common problems of Arizona residents. You need to have your plumbing inspected to ensure that there is no residual water trapped into your pipes, and to reduce the risk of freezing or bursting. You also need to have it inspected so that you can have any broken pipes replaced.

Once you’re sure that there is no residual water and you don’t have broken plumbing, then as a precaution, shut off your water source for your outdoor plumbing. This will then give you peace of mind that your outdoor pipes would be safe from damage during the winter.

Turn the heat on

Your heating system is integral in keeping your home snug and dry during the winter. Your furnace and chimney must be in perfect condition so that it can provide adequate heat during winter. Make sure to have it professionally checked out during the fall so you would have ample time for repairs, if there are any.

A qualified technician should be able to see if your system is in good working condition and that it has achieved maximum efficiency as rated by its manufacturer. Doing so would minimize your carbon-monoxide leakage, which in turn will make your home safer.

Also, here’s a helpful tip: use the “reverse” switch on your ceiling fan to make the blades run in a clockwise direction. This will produce an updraft and push down heated air from the ceiling. If you have high ceilings, this can also reduce your energy consumption as you can turn down your thermostat if warm air is already circulating through the house.

Run a thorough check

Your attic may be the place you stash a lot of unneeded but still wanted items in, but it can also be home to ice dams or icicles. Have a weatherization contractor or a home-energy auditor come into your home to identify and fix inadequate insulation or air leaks. This will help you avoid costly repairs brought about by meltwater, and the inevitable damage it would bring into your house.

Likewise, make sure that you also clean out your gutter of debris, as this can cause water to back up and once again cause leaks and ice dams.

The Bottom line

While winter can wreak havoc into an unsuspecting homeowner’s property, the bottom line is that the amount of damage your home would incur during the winter would be minimal if you routinely maintain your home. For example, you don’t necessarily have to wait for winter to have your foundations checked for cracks.

You should address all these maintenance issues during the fall so that you would be ready when winter comes. Also, most inspectors and service providers are usually backlogged during the season, as there would be many customers who would want their homes serviced. If you dally on your decision to have your home checked, particularly your roof and heating unit, then you could be in for a long wait.

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.

Fall Planting for Arizona Gardeners by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

October 8, 2019 Joe Szabo

This is the time of year when Arizona’s desert gardeners head outside to get a jump on fall vegetable and herb planting. Fall is our biggest planting season, when we can have successive crops of edibles, some that will last into early spring. It’s a huge time for seed planting, as evidenced by the number of seed orders we place at the shop each week just to keep up.

Despite the heat, everyone is itching to get going, here’s a list of all the things that can go into the ground. We’re starting with October in this post because we want you to use September to prepare your soil. Tending to soil is the best thing you can do to ensure a good crop of healthy, relatively pest-free produce. Remember to prepare your soil and then let it sit for a few weeks before planting, so everything gets a chance to percolate together.

Fall Seeds & Transplants:

Vegetable Seeds – Beets, Bok Choy, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Chinese Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Chard, Collard Greens, Endive, Kale, Kohlrabi, Lettuce (both leaf and head), Leeks, Mustard, Onions, Parsnips, Peas, Radishes, Rutabagas, Spinach, Turnips Vegetable Transplants – Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Chinese Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery, Chard, Garlic, Kohlrabi, Lettuce (head and leaf) Flower Seeds – Calendula, Cornflower, Desert marigold, Gaillardia, Johnny Jump-ups, Larkspur, Nasturtium, Sweet Pea, Wildflowers (native varieties) Herbs – Chives, Cilantro, Dill, German Chamomile, Fennel, Lemon Grass, Marjoram, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Salad Burnet, Thyme If you’re interested in taking your gardening skills to the next level come to the Cool Season Vegetable Gardening Workshop. Nurseryman Gregory Ware will teach you everything you need to know to grow your own healthy organic fall crop garden.

Soil:

This is the foundation of everything that happens in your garden and if you skip it, you run the risk of losing what you plant. Every time you plant you need to renew/refresh/feed your soil. Our native soils lack a lot of nutrients that plants need, and when nutrients are added your healthy garden plants use them up. It’s important to feed your soil each season before you plant. 1. Start by cultivating your garden beds. Dig into them (not when the soil is soaking wet), fluff up the soil, make air in there so roots will grow. 2. Add organic matter – basically you are feeding your soil beneficial microorganisms that will become nutrients for the plants. Organic matter is composted horse or chicken manure, or compost (preferably from your own compost pile). 3. Add sulfur – Desert soil is very alkaline and soil sulfur counteracts alkalinity. It helps make the nutrients in the soil available to plants as well as helping to reduce nutrient deficiencies such as chlorosis and calcium deficiency. 4. Add organic fertilizer – If you are planting flowers choose a balanced fertilizer with a good amount of phosphorous (the second of the three hyphenated numbers on the package) for good bloom. If you’re planting vegetables and fruits, choose a granular fertilizer formulated to help them, like Happy Frog Tomato & Vegetable Fertilizer. 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.

Growing Gardenias In Arizona by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

October 3, 2019 Joe Szabo

Would you like to grow gardenias in Arizona? A lot of people love the plant but seem to struggle in our uniquely hot and arid environment. This post will give you insight into how to do it.

Gardenia shrubs are hugely popular with gardeners because of their wonderfully fragrant flowers and glossy, bright, evergreen foliage which is attractive all year long. The gardenia is a heat loving shrub and will grow very well when planted and cared for properly. Growing gardenias in Arizona is one of the more successful landscaping shrubs you can choose. It takes preparation and choosing the right place in your landscape to put the gardenia and knowing how to care for it.

Choosing The Right Gardenia

The gardenia can play different roles in your garden and landscape. They grow to different widths and heights, so considering what role your want it to play will help you with choosing the right gardenia for your yard. All gardenias feature the wonderful fragrant flowers, however there can be differences between when they will bloom and how big their mature size will be. If you want the gardenia to be the crowning jewel of your flora you will need to plan plenty of room for a larger variant to stretch out and grow. Some varieties of gardenia only mature to be a low, tidy plant that is well used to edge a flower bed or walkway. The Everblooming Gardenia only matures to 4 feet high and can be a wonderful boarder or walkway plant. In contrast the Cape Jasimine Gardenia can grow to a massive 8 feet wide, and just as tall.

The Right Shrub In the Right Zone

Plants are divided into the geographical zones that they grow best in. This is usually printed on the plant label or container. If you are unsure of either the zone you live in, or what zone a particular plant grows in, as your nursery professional. Arizona is a large state that covers a few different zones based on geography and topography. Knowing your zone will help you choose the right types for your garden. Most gardenias grow well in zone 9, which covers a large portion of Southern Arizona. Northern Arizona includes zones 8, 7, 6, and in very small areas zone 5. Choose plants that are rated for your area and you will see greater success. Some professional landscapers or passionate gardeners choose a variety of gardenias that have different bloom times. This means that there are more days per year where the landscape will have that wonderful aroma. When done properly, you can have blooming gardenia all the way from May through August.

Choosing The Right Place To Plant

Even when you have chosen the right shrub for your zone, where your plant it in your landscape can affect how it will grow. There are three main considerations for choosing the right place to plant your gardenia. These are which zone you are in, the soil quality, controlling moisture content, and how much light the plant will receive.

Knowing The Soil

The pH balance of the soil is particularly important for the successful growing of the gardenia. You will want the pH to be between 5.0 and 6.5. This is considered a slight acidic soil which might not be compatible with other plants in your landscape, or be naturally present in your native soil. Soil testing kits should be used in preparation for the planting of gardenias to measure the pH of the soil and to know if or how much adjustment needs to be done. If your pH is too high you can add sulfur to your soil. There are different types of sulfur available at local nurseries. Soil pH should be done months in advance if possible. If the soil is excessively sandy or filled with clay deposits you will want to amend the soil with plenty of organic compost. Be sure to test the soil where you going to plant your gardenia, since the quality of soil varies throughout your yard, especially near the foundation of homes.

Knowing The Moisture

Well draining soil and consistent watering is absolutely necessary for the gardenia. These are not drought tolerant shrubs and will not happily wait for the next monsoon season for their water. Soaking the soil isn’t an option either; soggy roots can cause serious problems with gardenias. The compost you add to the soil will help retain the water needed while allowing the rest of the water to drain away. Setting up soaking hoses around the gardenias that are on timers will help take the guess work out of keeping track of watering the gardenia. This means one inch of water per week. Clearly Arizona doesn’t always get that from rain, so be prepared to make sure they get just what they need, and don’t overwater.

Knowing The Daily Light

While the gardenia thrives in heat and light in Arizona full sun all day isn’t a good idea. It is best to protect the gardenia from the intense heat and afternoon direct sunlight. This means choosing sites that are on the north or east facing exposures. That will help get the morning light while only allowing some midday sunlight and be protected for the afternoon.

When To Plant The Gardenia

The best time to plant the gardenia is when temperatures are moderate. This means in the fall or spring. When planting in higher elevations or Northern Arizona it is best to plant the gardenia in the spring so the root system will be developed before the fall and colder days. Gardenias like to be planted a little high compared to the surface of your soil. This means digging a hole as wide and deep as the root ball. However make sure you firmly pack in around 4 inches of soil at the bottom of the hole before you place the plant in the ground. Place the soil from the hole you dug back in around the root ball and cover the section that stands above the soil. Complete the planting by adding a layer of mulch compost. Make sure that it isn’t placed touching the stem of your gardenia. Apply the mulch every year to help prevent harsh temperatures or weeds from affecting your gardenia.

Gardenia Nurseries In The East Phoenix Valley

A&P Nursery has 4 locations that can help you with all of your gardening needs. From the large yard to small urban farming type set ups we have the plants, the tools, the knowledge to help get you going and keep your gardening thriving!

A & P Nursery 40370 N. Gantzel Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85240 480-655-5789

A & P Nursery 2645 W. Baseline Rd. Mesa, Arizona 85202 480-839-5362

A & P Nursery 6129 E. Brown Rd. Mesa, Arizona 85205 480-396-8800

A & P Nursery & Lawnmower Shop 2601 E. Baseline Rd. Gilbert, Arizona 85234 480-892-7939 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.

Much about Mulch by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

October 1, 2019 Joe Szabo

The best mulch can make all the difference in your yard. With so many types of mulch available, it can be difficult to choose one. From shredded bark to compost, we cover the mulch basics to help you select which one will work best in your landscape. While mulching may seem like a basic part of gardening, there is so much to learn about the different types of garden mulch and what benefits each type provides. We’ll show you how to compare and contrast the different types of mulch and what situations to use them in.

There are a number of advantages to adding mulch in your garden. In the summer, mulch helps the soil hold moisture so you don’t have to water your garden as often. In the hot sun, soil also tends to dry out faster and harden. Mulch will help with this by protecting the soil from direct sunlight. Mulch also prevents weeds. Adding mulch to your planting bed will block light from openings in the soil, therefore inhibiting weed germination. By adding a thick layer of mulch, you’ll ensure that the weeds never see the light of day! Tip: While a concentrated layer of mulch is ideal, don’t overdo it. 2–4 inches is the ideal depth for a mulch layer. Over time, garden mulch types made from organic materials break down and increase your soil’s structure and fertility. This is especially true with compost used as a mulch, as the nutrients will promote soil organisms and aid in plant growth. Shredded bark is one of the most common and least expensive types of mulch. It comes from a variety of sources, including cedar trees. Shredded bark is one of the best mulch types to use on slopes and it breaks down relatively slowly. Some shredded-bark products are byproducts from other industries; they’re considered environmentally friendly. Check the mulch packaging for more information. Straw mulch has a beautiful golden color that looks great in the garden. It’s also a bit slower to break down than leaves or grass clippings. Some gardeners like smaller, more shredded straw pieces while others prefer larger straws. Straw is classically used in more utilitarian gardens, such as vegetable gardens, and under strawberry plants. Straw does a great job of keeping mud out of your edibles.

Compost looks like soil, except it’s darker, so it really sets off plants well. This mulch material breaks down quickly but adds to your soil structure the fastest. Plus, it’s inexpensive; you can create your own rich compost for free. Many municipalities give away compost as well. These bark nuggets are slower to break down than shredded bark, but they don’t stay in place as well. They’re not the best type of mulch for slopes or other areas where they may be washed away by heavy rain; the chips will tend to float and take off like boats. The nuggets are available in a variety of sizes; the bigger the nugget, the longer it lasts. 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.

What Upgrades are Worth the Investment by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 26, 2019 Joe Szabo

These expert tips explain which home features you can do without and which you may want to pay a little more to enjoy. Many cabinets come standard with built-in features, so select midrange cabinetry instead of top-of-the-line. Also opt for storage-savvy solutions instead of expensive finishes or hardware—those elements can always be updated later. If you’re building a new home or adding on, consider a 10-foot or higher ceiling. It opens up a room, which is especially important in small spaces. Make the vault even more wow-worthy by installing a rustic beam across the ceiling’s slope. Ceramic tile is cheap, widely available, and comes in a variety of colors, so you can easily get the look you want. It works especially well in bathrooms, kitchens, and around fireplaces. If you must have expensive tiles, use them only for accents—like for a border or backsplash—and use ceramic tile everywhere else.

No one likes the shock of a cold bathroom floor in the morning, so many homeowners are willing to spend the extra cash on heated bathroom floors. Radiant-heating systems warm a room via hot water or electrical wires installed beneath a finished floor. Ceramic tile, concrete, and wood floors are ideal surfaces for radiant heating.

Choose eye-catching fixtures to light one or two main areas, but opt for basic fixtures, such as canister or track lights, elsewhere. Or plan to DIY some of your fixtures. This pendant light, for example, was created with wooden dowels and spray paint. materials and installation can be costly. Instead, go with less-expensive wainscoting or chair rail. If you just can’t live without crown molding, consider installing it yourself to save money. 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.

Before Buying a Condo by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 24, 2019 Joe Szabo

If you’re wondering, “Should I buy a condo?” but don’t know where to begin, we’ve got you covered. We talked with real estate experts to find out the biggest considerations for purchasing a condo. Read on as we cover the pros and cons of buying a condo, plus the top questions to ask before closing.

What Is a Condo?

A condo is a unit within a larger residential building, much like an apartment. The key difference? Ownership. All units in an apartment complex are owned by a single landlord or property management company and are rented out to tenants who must follow the same rules. Condos, on the other hand, are individually-owned units, and often provide more freedom for residents looking to update and personalize their space. Common areas and amenities in condos have shared ownership. The condo owners govern their ownership through their homeowners association. In essence, you can think of the homeowners association as the owner of the land. Homeowners associations, or HOAs, cover the maintenance of the grounds, which is a major draw for condo buyers. HOAs are also responsible for setting specific rules for what residents can and cannot do. These guidelines vary and are put in place to maintain a certain standard of living and lifestyle agreed upon by its residents. Zillow research finds that older generations are most likely to buy a condo, 7 percent of which are Boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, and 13 percent are from the Silent Generation, those born between 1925 and 1945. According to Pendleton, this indicates a lifestyle split between those who want fewer home-related responsibilities and those who still want a yard. But having your lawn mowed for you isn’t the only upside of condo living. There’s a handful of other perks that attract buyers of all ages—millennials included.

Pros of Buying a Condo

Before you hand over your down payment, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of buying a condo. Below are just a few benefits: Accessibility: Many urban condos feature single-floor living. This is a huge plus for some, including retirees and those with young kids just learning to walk. Amenities: Pools, tennis courts, and manicured gardens are just a few of the amenities that attract condo buyers. And because you don’t own the land (unlike townhouse owners), you don’t have to deal with the upkeep, which is handled by the HOA. Walkability: What really sells the condo lifestyle for all generations of buyers is walk score. This includes close proximity to eateries, coffee shops, and other amenities like a pool, fully-equipped gym, shared outdoor spaces such as parks and greenbelt areas, job paths, and assigned private parking spaces. Naturally, this walk score is higher for condos, as they tend to cluster in more urban or vacation areas. Community: Having access to shared amenities, activities, and events make condos a popular pick for those looking to socialize. Investment: Is buying a condo a good investment? Owning a condo has many of the same benefits of owning a single-family home. “You can build equity and benefit from the tax incentive that comes with homeownership as well as the stability that homeownership provides,” she says.

Cons of Buying a Condo

Although condos offer bonus amenities, they can also come with added fees and rules. Here are some of the downsides to purchasing a condo: Cost: Research shows that median condo values nationwide have increased 26.9 percent in the past five years, with the average condo value sitting at $235,300 as of March 2019. That’s higher than an average single-family home, which was valued at $226,700. This can make the choice between buying a condo versus house even trickier. HOA fees: Condos have HOA fees that can be much higher than expected depending on the area, the condo value, and amenities. Buyers must weigh convenience versus cost and should consider how much wiggle room they have for potential costs outside the monthly fees. Unexpected assessments such as emergency repairs or higher-than-normal gardening costs can add up quickly. HOA rules: HOA rules vary widely from condo to condo. While some offer many of the same freedoms that come with owning a single-family home, others can be quite strict. So if things like pets or patio decorations are important to you, you may want to consider other housing options. Noise: With shared walls, you can’t always count on your neighbors to keep quiet. Plus, if you purchase a condo in an urban setting, the convenience can come at a cost. It’s only natural to hear the sounds of traffic and busy streets if you’re in the heart of things.

Buying a Condo Versus Renting

Buyers looking to rent their condos for an extended period of time, whether it be for vacation or as a way to earn additional income, should ask the condo’s HOA about feasibility and restrictions. If buying for a rental, there is a rental cap. Most of the information can be obtained through the resale certificate, so it’s very important to read it closely and have your questions answered within the contracted timeframe allowed.

How to Buy a Condo

To find condos listed in your area, call Joe Szabo directly to help guide your search and help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Just like single-family homes, you’ll need to apply for a mortgage. Your lender can help you review building operations and board documents. In addition to an application and list of references, some condos request an interview with the HOA board. When meeting, you’ll want to ask the right questions upfront, so there won’t be any surprises later on.

Questions to Ask When Buying a Condo

When considering a condo, you’ll want to know the answers to several key questions. Ask the following queries before buying a condo:

What are the HOA fees?
What are the HOA rules?
What does my HOA pay for and what is there funding for?
Can I look at the past year’s HOA meeting minutes?
Are there any major repairs coming up?
Are there pet restrictions?
Can I rent out my unit?
What kind of community events are held?
Do owners socialize or tend to keep up themselves?
What kind of noise level can I expect?

Note that condo residents are required to obtain insurance for their individual units, while the building tends to have a shared master policy that is paid through condo association fees.

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.

Garage Makeovers by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 24, 2019 Joe Szabo

With space to hold two cars, two workbenches, a rolling table, and a slew of baskets, drawers, and cabinets, this garage renovation is seriously hardworking.

The garage is often merely a big repository for tools, yard implements, and off-season items with nowhere else to go. But Miesje and Dana Corbo of Scottsdale, Arizona, knew it could be more. Working with interior designer Caroline DeCesare, they filled their three-car garage with work areas, storage, and art. “You spend more time in the garage than in some rooms of the house, especially if you’re like me and a little bit handy,” Dana reasons. The end result is a stylish space to sort and store everything a busy family with four preteens might need—and then some. In the hardworking zone, open wire shelving organizes often-used tools (drills, flashlights, tape measures) in easy reach of work surfaces. Framed signs lend a playful mood.

From the outside, you’d have no clue what lies behind these rustic garage doors. One bay of Miesje and Dana Corbo’s three-car garage is dedicated to two workbenches and a table on casters. The other two garage bays are for cars.

Like items are grouped together inside a corner cabinet. Cleaning products are rounded up in baskets, pesticides are out of reach in another labeled bin, and golf club covers are stored next to golf balls. If you have kids or pets in your family, be sure to store dangerous chemicals out of reach from curious little hands.

Have a lot of tools? Store one type in each bin to avoid a jumble. Here, containers suit the size and shape of various supplies. Shallow metal drawers below one workbench stow hand tools; under them, big wire mesh baskets hold bulky extension cords, rope, and cases for Dana’s drills.

A cabinet outfitted with screen doors for a rustic look is built into the wall so it doesn’t take up any extra floor space. The Corbos measured the shelves to make room for Dana’s golf bags. Hooks get ladders and a broom off the floor. Want flexible storage fast? Dana Corbo recommends installing a wall-mounted rail system. “That’s the first thing I would do if I were starting with a new garage,” he says. “You can hang the rack as high or as low on the wall as you want.” The rails (which include hooks for specific tools) can be installed with a drill, screws, and anchors.

An antique table got a new set of casters so it can be moved wherever it’s needed. “It’s also a convenient place to dump things when you get out of the car,” Dana says. Light is gained from windows, ceiling cans, and pendants. Don’t forget about the storage potential near the ceiling. The Corbos added a shelf high on the wall for a dozen black plastic totes that store off-season clothing, camping gear, memorabilia, holiday decorations, and “anything we get down once a year,” Dana says. For maximum benefit, they added extra framing support to make sure the shelf would support heavy items.

Deep drawers tucked into alcoves under windows are big enough for all the sports equipment the Corbo kids can throw in them. Individual baskets in the drawers keep items sorted and organized by sport. There’s no excuse for a cluttered backyard with these organizational tools in use.

A multipurpose cabinet stacks items from the stained concrete floor nearly to the ceiling. Metal bins (some vintage scores, some new purchases) store items such as lightbulbs, paint cans, rags, wood stain, gardening gloves, and seed packets. The two largest shelf items are stored on the bottom to avoid heavy lifting.

Two sets of drawers fit snugly under the windows along the back of the garage, leaving plenty of room for cars. A spacious surface on top of the drawers is a useful space to work on projects or store supplies. Industrial-style stools offer a resting place next to the table.

An industrial rotating bin the Corbos found at the Round Top Antiques Fair in Texas holds nails and other small items that can easily get lost. It sits atop a cabinet with numbered drawers, where Dana stashes such things as batteries, hook-and-loop tape, and glue. A framed print makes this work space feel less like a garage and more like home.

The work space boasts a utility sink and faucets (formerly a weathered zinc bucket and outdoor spigots). “Paint and all that stuff is very messy,” Dana says, “and we just deal with it in the garage rather than in the house.” The workbench features tilt-out bins sized just right for a table saw, clamps, and other bulky tools. Repurposed vintage finds serve as clever containers for tools and supplies. 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.

Spare Room becomes a Crafting Retreat by Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 19, 2019 Joe Szabo

Are you looking for a creative way to carve out some space for the perfect crafting retreat in your home? The “crafty” solution might be a lot easier than you think! It could just be a matter of exploring the spare spaces available throughout your home.

Closet Creative

If you can spare a closet or consolidate two closets into one to free up space, you can create the perfect crafting retreat by adding shelving, a countertop, and a pegboard on the back wall for craft storage. As a bonus, you can shut the closet door to hide away any unfinished crafting projects! Image via: Beneath my Heart

Make the Most of Your Guest Room

If you have a guest room that only sees visitors a few times a year, consider taking over a wall in the room to create your dedicated crafting area. Floor-to-ceiling shelving provides additional storage, and a small desk can give you a nice crafting work surface. A guest room closet can house your crafting supplies, sewing machine, and other products you’ll want to have on hand.

Creative Cabinets or Shelving

If you can’t repurpose a closet or part of an office for your craft space, consider taking over a cabinet or a shelving unit in another area of your home, such as a family room, basement, or bedroom. Large glass cookie jars and other canisters are a great (and pretty!) way to store craft supplies on open shelving. Clear plastic storage bins are perfect for storing craft supplies in closed cabinets. Image via: The Creativity Exchange

Combined Office and Craft Space

Full shot of craft room with violet and lime striped chairs and checkerboard flooring

Converting an existing office space in your home into a dual-purpose craft area is easy to do by adding pegboard storage to a wall to hold craft supplies. If you can, divide available cabinet and file storage spaces to house both office and craft supplies.

Armoire or Wardrobe

Another option for creating a dedicated crafting retreat is to convert a large armoire or wardrobe with cork board or magnetic board. Many types of armoires and wardrobes have built-in electrical outlets that can be utilized for a sewing machine, glue gun, and other craft tools that require a plug-in. Inside shelving can be customized to fit your crafting needs. 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.

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