If you’re considering a home improvement project consider the latest trends in home fashion and design.  Take a look at some of these recent innovations in home design. 

Surfaces: Engineered stone is more affordable and less porous than granite.  Reflective glass tiles are becoming more popular than traditional ceramic tiles.

Flooring: Bamboo is tougher and more eco-friendly than wood flooring, but beware that low-cost versions risk warping. Concrete slabs are now retro-chic, along with exposed brick or steel in walls. Cork has become a hip, durable and quiet floor.

Home Automation Systems:  Household functions including lighting, climate control, personal computers, window coverings and home entertainment systems can be wired and controlled by a single on-site or off-site control system.

Garage Conversions:  Flooring, enclosed walls, lighting and furnishings can add usable living space and still provide for storage.  Purpose-specific spaces are also popular in other parts of the home.

Contact me, Paulette Zuena at REMAX Partners, Andover, MA  for more ways to improve the value of your home.

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Without a doubt we are living in an extraordinary  information age. Media reports, statistics, advertising and market data are all truly at our fingertips.  The key is understanding how all of the market reports, trends and mortgage options impact your unique personal, financial and family needs.  Like all major financial decisions it’s important to have advise and knowledge you can depend upon. As a REMAX agent with expert knowledge of the Andover, North Andover and Boxford real estate markets I can help you find the facts you need to make a wise home buying decision. In my decade of experience helping both buyers and sellers with their real estate needs I understand that no two home buyers or sellers are alike.  Please contact  Paulette Zuena, to learn  how I can help you find the home that’s right for you.

What exactly is a "buyer’s market?"  According to the National Association of Realtors, a "buyer’s market" occurs when there is more than a 6 month inventory of homes for sale in a particular market area. The concept is similar to that of other goods and services and relates to the more familiar economic principle of "supply and demand." For buyers who are able to qualify for a mortgage, this is truly an excellent time to consider purchasing a home and an experienced, professional real estate agent can guide you through the complicated process of buying a home.  Whether your a first time home buyer or currently own a home and are looking to move let Paulette Zuena guide you through the maze of financing options, legal documents, inspection procedures and disclosure requirements so important in today’s market. As an expert in the Andover, North Andover and Boxford Massachusetts communities, I can help you find the home and neighborhood that is right for you.

"Has the housing market reached the bottom or will prices keep falling?"  I get asked this question several times a day and while it seems like a logical question to ask when thinking about when to buy or sell a home, the truth is, housing prices are only part of the equation to be considered.  I came across an interesting statistic…actually presented to me by my colleague Mike Elias, Senior Loan Officer at the Mortgage Network.  Did you know that mortgage interest rates have only been lower than this month’s fixed rate for 48 out of the past 447 months?  It’s important for buyers to remember that a small increase in interest rates can quickly offset any savings they might realize by a reduced asking price.  This chart clearly illustrates this point.  For a copy of this report and other valuable information, contact Mike Elias at the Mortgage Network or Paulette Zuena at ReMax Partners in Andover, MA.  Together we can help you with all of your real estate needs.

 School’s out for summer and all across Andover and North Andover children and adults alike are enjoying vacation and outdoor fun.  The recent flooding in the midwest and the official start of hurricane season remind us that accidents and storms can happen at any time.  Perhaps that’s why June is National Safety month!  My wish for you is to enjoy your summer and please stay safe. Consider these valuable first aid and emergency safety tips. 

Enrich with color! Paint is cheap but forget the adage that it must be white or neutral.  Just don’t get too avant-garde with jarring pinks, oranges or purples.  Soft colors say "welcome" and lead the eye from room to room.  Think soft yellows and pale greens. Tint the ceilings a lighter shade.

Upgrade the kitchen and bathrooms. These are make-or-break rooms.  Make each room squeaky clean and clutter free.  Update the pulls, sinks, and faucets. In the kitchen add on cool appliance such as an expresso maker.  In the bathroom mimic a hotel or spa.  Fresh towels are a must!

With buyers more scarce, it’s important for sellers to offer what many want most–top value for their money!   Let’s consider some simple ideas to help you get the most for your home.

Buff up curb appeal.   You’ve heard it before, but it’s critical to get buyers to want to look on the inside.  Be objective.  View your home from the street. Check the condition of the landscaping, paing, roof, shutters, front door, knocker, windows, house number and even how window treatments look from the outside.  Add something special–such as big flower pots or an antique bench.  Help viewers remember your home!  Many buyers drive by homes before scheduling a tour. Make sure your home is one buyers will want to visit.

For a free report "21 Tips to Sell Your Home Faster" contact Paulette Zuena.