If you’re planning on finishing your basement to raise your resale value, read these tips to make smart improvements that attract buyers.
Keep it Dry
Protect your improvements from water. Before you start any basement renovations, make sure potential leaks are stopped. You don’t want your time, money and effort to be wasted due to water damage.
Add a Vapor Barrier
Even after patching up any leaks, your basement can still feel or smell damp, which is a turn off to potential buyers. Adding a vapor barrier to the walls and floors before finishing will help your basement show well. You can check the barriers after a day or two to see if moisture is gathering. If there is significant moisture, you may need to add additional barriers.
Add the Proper Insulation
Insulation doesn’t only help control the temperature, it can also add another layer of moisture protection. Choose an insulation that has a vapor barrier on both sides for added protection.
Finish with Drop Ceilings
Drop ceilings are an easy way to conceal any plumbing or electrical lines without any major construction. If something does go wrong while renovating the basement, it’s easy to remove tiles to access the pipes and wiring. Keep in mind drop ceilings reduce the amount of overhead space.
Install Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is a fabulous idea for any basement. It fits perfectly into drop ceilings while providing minimal and easily concealable wiring. It also provides invaluable amounts of space that hanging light fixtures would otherwise take up.
Buying a home isn’t always easy, especially for first time buyers. Knowing the more common mistakes will cut down on stress during the process.
Not Seeking Professional Guidance
Starting the home buying process alone isn’t a good idea, especially if it’s your first time buying. Hiring an agent is a smart choice to help with the home search, negotiations, finances and closing. Agents are an incredibly valuable asset for any home buying situation.
Missing Hidden Costs
Property insurance, taxes, maintenance and utilities are costs often forgotten during the excitement of buying a new home. Keep in mind these costs generally increase every year. Even if you can afford it now, ask yourself if you can afford it in the future.
Skipping the Loan Preapproval Process
Being preapproved for a mortgage helps narrow your home search by directing you to homes within your budget. Talking to someone in advance will help set realistic expectations, and offer peace of mind knowing what homes will fit your budget appropriately.
Depleting your Savings
It may seem as though you have the perfect amount of money in your savings to buy your home and move in, but if you’re emptying that account to buy a home, it means the home is too expensive. Ideally you’ll have saved enough money to buy your home, move and cover expenses for six months without pay. This is a safety net if you lose your job, so don’t blow all of your money on a home you can’t afford.
Making Large Purchases after Closing
Celebrate buying a home with major purchases before closing may seem exciting, but lenders check credit scores to be sure your financial situation hasn’t changed. Putting new furniture or appliances on a credit card before your closing date may negatively affect your credit score. And adding new loans may jeopardize the original mortgage you were hoping to receive. Don’t learn this lesson the hard way and have this mistake cost you the home you were counting on.
Mel Foster Co, is pleased to announce that several of their agents have been named as one of America’s most productive agents as a part of REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents, the ranking report produced by REAL Trends and sponsored by Zillow Group.
REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents ranks over 12,000 residential real estate agents solely based on their excellence in real estate sales during calendar year 2015. To be included in the ranking, agents must have closed at least 50 transactions, compared with the industry average of seven, or $20 million in closed sales volume. This ensures that only the best of the best are included on the prestigious list.
The rankings are complied based on survey from virtually every national branded network, many state and local associations of Realtors®, multiple listing services, all applicant from past years’ rankings, and the 1,600 largest brokerage firms in the United States. Verification from an independent source is required for all submissions.
The real estate agents are ranked in two categories:
Individual agent – Sales volume
Individual agent – Transaction sides (in each real estate transaction there are two sides that can be represented by a real estate agent; the buy side and the selling side)
For Individuals by Volume, in Iowa, three Mel Foster Co. agents ranked in the top ten:
Brad Boeye, Kimberly Road office, ranked #2
Geri Doyle, Davenport I-74 office, ranked #3
Lucky Lang, Davenport I-74 office, ranked #7
For Individuals by Sides, in Iowa, eight Mel Foster agents ranked out of 104:
Geri Doyle, Davenport Kimberly Road office, ranked #31
Scott Kelling, Davenport I-74 office, ranked #44
Mary Leslie Douglas, Clinton office, ranked #63
Norm Marcov, Davenport I-74 office, ranked #88,
Dan Schneckloth, Davenport I-74 office, ranked #94
Rick Schwanz, Davenport I-74 office, ranked #97
For individuals by Sides, in Illinois, four Mel Foster Co. agents ranked out of 276:
Diana Franks, Geneseo office, ranked #65
Jackie Turner, Galesburg office, ranked #222
Debbie Wright, Kewanee office, ranked #235
Peggy Tossell, Kewanee office, ranked #250
“With today’s release of the 2016 America’s Best Real Estate Agents list, an elite group of real estate agents across the country are receiving well-deserved recognition. These sales associates are far above average and have built enormously successful small businesses in an extremely competitive field,” said Steve Murray, president of REAL Trends.
“We are thrilled to have our agents be a part of this highly successful real estate group, which shows how hard these agents have worked, their dedication to the industry and their business,” said Lynsey Engels, Mel Foster Co.’s President Real Estate Brokerage.
Continuing its commitment to digital innovation, Mel Foster Co. launched its new search interface for desktop, providing homebuyers with more intuitive features. The new design is fully responsive, making the new features functional across desktop, tables and mobile devices.
The new www.mMelfosterco.com search offers intuitive features such as a polygon tool, to more closely define the location. Users can custom draw search zone to pinpoint the desired neighborhood or city and toggle back and forth between three different views. The first view, search by full map view, makes it easy to identify active listings in green and pending listing in yellow. Search by full gallery view displays the listings with large thumbnail photos and then map and gallery split views are the other two view options.
View every listing detail with one fast click back to search. The meticulously designed detail page opens as an overly with stunning property images and full listing information. Photos are now ‘swipe-enabled’ for viewing on tablets and mobile devices making it easier to navigate the photo gallery. The site also allows users to flow freely between a desktop, tablet or a mobile device with a GPS search for on-the-go users. This feature saves your search information across all of your devices, enabling you to pick up where you left off on a search on another device.
Mel Foster Co. continues to offer customized websites for all agents. These agent specific websites now includes the new search interface with the same upgrades as the company’s website, www.melfosterco.com. The agent websites are also fully responsive across desktop, tablet and mobile devices. A full CRM system is included to provide agents and offices with the tools they need for success.
Updating parts of your kitchen while staying under budget will be a breeze as long as you follow Mel Foster Co.’s simple guide.
Update the Hardware
If your kitchen seems to be a little dated, consider updating the hardware. Drawer knobs, handles and towel racks are inexpensive changes to make your kitchen feel fresh. It’s a great way to have a new looking kitchen without the new kitchen price.
Replace the Faucet
Add a more modern faucet to the sink as a way to create a focal point in your kitchen. Try to have it match your hardware in color, but be different enough to stand out and be interesting. There are a multitude of modern faucets available, so you’re sure to find one you love.
Install a Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans add a soothing constant motion in the kitchen. If you have high ceilings, a ceiling fan is the perfect way to make the kitchen a more relaxing room. As an added bonus, it will help keep the room cool and in some cases cut your summer cooling costs.
Get Creative
Not every change needs to be dramatic. Sometimes something as easy as new towels can give your kitchen a fresh look. Consider replacing worn out items like chairs, dishes or even the paint on your cabinets. Small changes will add up quickly and make your kitchen look brand new.
Mel Foster Co.’s Color the Quads raised $70,500 for local charities during its fourth and final colorful run on May 21 in Bettendorf, Iowa. Over 1,300 5K participants, 200 children racers, sponsors and volunteers contributed to the cause. One hundred percent of the proceeds from Color the Quads were distributed to local charities. Jordan’s Joy, NAMI – Greater Mississippi Valley and YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln and Youth Solutions received $23,500 each.
Jordan’s Joy board member, Michelle McMullen said, “Thank you all for the incredible experience! Because of Mel Foster’s hard work and determination, the Quad City community has come together once again to help kids and their families in our area. Jordan’s Joy was honored and humbled to be such a special part of it.”
“This was a fantastic opportunity to get the word out about education resources for families living with a serious mental health condition. We are grateful to those persons who voted with their feet to support NAMI,” said Angela Gallagher, executive director, National Alliance on Mental Illness Greater Mississippi Valley.
“Mel Foster and Color the Quads have done more than just provide a fun and healthy family event for our community,” said Scott County Family Y CEO Brad Martell. “Because the proceeds benefit YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln and the Solutions Outreach program, hundreds of students and their families will be supported and encouraged to be the next generation of leaders for our community! The effects will impact all of us for years to come!”
The event’s Color Extraordinaire, Color Party, Kid’s Color Dash, Color Explosion and Color Burst sponsors include; Mel Foster Co., XPAC, Tri-City Electric Co., American Bank & Trust, Active Endeavors, Perl Mortgage, University of Iowa Community Credit Union, Vollertsen, Britt & Gorsline P.C., Alcoa, Build To Suit, Enviromark, Gomez May Law, Hawkeye Paving Corp., Hy-Vee, KWQC, Mickle Communications, Pear Advertising, Pella Windows & Doors, Quad-City Times, Radon Solutions, Terrostar Interactive Media, TMI – Total Maintenance Inc., Twin Rivers Bank & Trust Tyson Fresh Meats Inc., and Victorystore.com.
“We were amazed once again by the generous support of our sponsors and this community. By raising $254,854 for local charities over Color the Quads’ four-year run, we know we’ve made a positive impact in our community, to strengthen families and support youth. It was a privilege to lead this project during its successful run and we are so proud of what was collectively achieved,” said Lynsey Engels, President, Real Estate Brokerage for Mel Foster Co.
When your home is on the market, curb appeal is extremely important to attract buyers. Mel Foster Co. has a list of five outdoor trends to increase interest in your home.
Low Maintenance Landscaping
Everyone loves seeing beautiful gardens, but not everyone loves taking care of them. Keep your bushes, flowers and trees low maintenance to attract a wider audience. If a buyer has a green thumb, they’ll most likely add their own personal favorites after moving in.
Permanent Structures
Covered patios, screened in porches and fire pits increase the value of your home. Also consider year round seating such as benches attached to your home or deck. These options may be expensive to install, but make your home more appealing.
Privacy
Everyone loves privacy and outdoor spaces are an extension of the home. Canopies, fences and tree lines provide more privacy for the yard. When selling your home, you can’t afford avoiding such an essential and attractive feature.
Lighting
Lighting in your seating area is extremely important. It adds additional function to your yard extending the amount of time it can be used. Good outdoor lighting showcases your property more during the nighttime. Adjustable lighting is even better, that way you can control the amount of light to your preferred level.
Natural Wood and Stone
Natural wood and stone are timeless additions. They are classic options that give your yard a natural look with modern comfort. Pick colors of stone and wood to compliment the other colors in your yard. Finding the right combination will help your home stand out amongst the crowd.
If you’re preparing to put your home up for sale, don’t forget about a good cleaning of your home’s exterior. You may not need to hire a professional to pressure wash your siding, deck or fence. It’s a pretty easy DIY project and you may find a neighbor with a pressure washer who is happy to lend you the equipment.
Here’s what to know before you connect the hose and fire up the air compressor.
What Surfaces Can Handle Being Pressure Washed?
Aluminum, steel, vinyl or wood can be pressure washed. Be certain your house doesn’t have lead paint. The runoff may contain lead and contaminate the soil, or even go into a storm drain polluting local bodies of water. Most houses painted after 1978 no longer used lead based paint.
Preparing to Use a Pressure Washer
When preparing to use the pressure washer, make sure you follow some simple safety steps. Before you start washing, make sure there are no cracks or holes in your siding or deck. The pressure washer may cause additional damage to these areas.
You want to be sure you never point the pressure washer at yourself or anyone else. It can easily cut through skin due to the force of the water. It is recommended to wear eye protection and avoid using a pressure washer if you are on a ladder.
Starting to Clean with the Pressure Washer
Cleaning is very simple. Apply a base layer of water using a standard garden hose to get the siding or deck ready for cleaning. After the siding or deck is wet, make sure the cleaning solution is in the pressure washer, and hook it up to the hose. Most pressure washers activate using a trigger.
If you’re cleaning house siding, you want to begin at the base of the house so there are no streaks running onto a dry part of the siding. Keep the pressure washer about one foot away from the siding and slowly swipe back and forth on each panel. You want to start at the base of the house.
Cleaning a deck or patio follows the same rules, but you start at the inside of the deck so you can push the water and debris off of the deck. You should be able to see the coloring difference as you clean. Keep washing every part of your deck or patio, especially inside cracks so every part looks fresh and clean.
You might be the handyman of the house, but common mistakes can take down even veterans of DIY projects. Follow these four steps to avoid pitfalls on your projects.
Plan. Plan. Plan.
You want to make sure you have a step-by-step plan to avoid future headaches. If you attempt to follow an online guide, make sure to read the entirety of the plans so you don’t end up making multiple trips to the hardware store. Think 10 steps ahead so you’re prepared for the end product. Small mistakes can add up and create more problems. Triple check plans, measurements and supplies before starting to avoid mistakes.
Beware the Cheapest Option
It may seem like a deal if an appliance or materials are inexpensive, but most of the time you get what you pay for. Don’t throw good money after bad. Find a reliable product so you only have to do the job once. You’ll end up saving more time and money by avoiding subpar materials for your projects. If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.
Specialty Work May Require a Professional
It might be hard to admit you need help doing jobs around the house, but electric and plumbing work may end up costing you more if you don’t seek advice. You may not need someone to come to your house, but it is beneficial to consult a specialist about your project. They can warn you about potential risks, what won’t work and whether or not you need professional help. Most of the time specialists at local hardware stores will be able to tell you about the difficulty of your task. It helps to bounce ideas off of someone with experience.
Acquire all Necessary Permits
DIY enthusiasts usually tackle larger projects based on success completing less complex projects. Be sure the work you’re doing can be certified because if you plan on selling your home, this will be a concern of potential buyers. Major projects like additions, heating, fencing, electrical, plumbing and window installation usually require permits. Check with a professional to find out if your project requires permits from your city.
Mel Foster Color the Quads is pleased to announce its 4th annual 5K Race raised over $70,000 and surpassed its four-year goal to raise a quarter of a million dollars for local charities.
Saturday’s race hit the cumulative four-year attendance mark of 10,000 participants, including adults and children.
Mel Foster Color the Quads had a four-year run in the Quad Cities and reached the following milestones:
2013 – $51,000 donated to two charities
2014 – $61,474 donated to three charities
2015 – $71,880 donated to three main charities and 13 other local charities
2016 – over $70,000 and three charities
Lynsey Engels, president of Mel Foster Co. Brokerage Division and Color the Quads committee chair, said, “We’d like to thank every runner, walker, volunteer and sponsor who helped make this event a huge success over the last four years. It’s remarkable what can be achieved when everybody works together. We know the funds raised this year and in the past help local families in many ways. Our goal was to top the $250,000 mark in our final year, so we’re really excited the community got behind this event and helped us achieve this fundraising milestone.”
Engels added, “Putting on a community event of this size takes a lot of hard work from volunteers. We could not prepare all of the swag bags, set up the kid’s race/5K race routes, color and water stations along the course without dedicated volunteers who generously give their time. Of course there is a large team of volunteers who help on race day to make sure everything goes smoothly for the racers. Mel Foster Co. agents and staff from residential real estate, commercial real estate, insurance and land development were involved in every aspect of this event over the last four years from choosing the charity recipients, obtaining sponsors, volunteering countless hours, promoting and participating in this event and it could not have been pulled off without them.”
During the race’s four-year run, 24 local charities received funds generated through sponsorships and race registration. “These numbers really show how compassionate our community is about backing charities that help children and families. Mel Foster Color the Quads has been a great way to make a significant impact and we appreciate everyone who has played some kind of a role in its success,” concludes Engels.
Charity Summary:
2013 – YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln, Youth Solutions, Children’s’ Therapy Center of the QC
2014 – Child Abuse Council, March of Dimes, Rick’s House of Hope
2015 – Bethany for Children & Families, Gigi’s Playhouse & Hand-in-Hand
13 other charities:
Bettendorf Library, Camp Genesis, Family Resources, Family Museum, Humility of Mary Housing, Kennedi’s Kisses, Living Lands & Waters, Project Renewal, Quad City Botanical Center, Student Hunger Drive, Toys for Tots, Tudi’s Tribe and YMCA.
2016 – Jordan’s Joy, NAMI Greater Mississippi Valley, YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln & Youth Solutions
“Our goal when we started this journey was to provide a unique experience for the Quad City area that was only available in larger cities while raising awareness and funds for charities in the areas we serve. It speaks volumes for the Quad Cities as a whole that we were able to accomplish this together and serves as a great reminder about what a great place the Quad Cities is to live and work,” commented Engels.
