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5 DIYS That You Can Do
Many DIY projects are unsuccessful when it comes to adding value to your home. Unfortunately, most homeowners are not expert craftsmen. Sure you know how to use a hammer and a saw and have been known to hook a tape measure to your belt, but when it comes to the fine, finishing details, you just don’t have the skill or practice to make it look professional. There is a reason why you became an accountant, lawyer, or doctor and not a finish carpenter, plumber, or electrician. And for the same reason, the finish carpenter didn’t choose your career.
I would never even consider working on my $30,000 car myself, yet everyday people take it upon themselves to perform major DIY projects on their $300,000 home. From rewiring electrical to running new plumbing lines, people educated with little more than a YouTube video think they are instant experts. While the major work should be performed by professionals, there are some simple projects that even the most amateur of DIYers can tackle.
Instead of tiling your own shower or adding a new gas line for your stove, here are five projects that you could (and probably should) take on:
- Paint your front door. Every 4-6 years you should pull out the paint can and enhance your front door. If your home faces east or west, your door takes a daily beating from the sun causing the paint to fade. You may also want to consider changing out the hardware on the door too.
- Hang new ceiling fans or light fixtures. As times change, so do the popular styles. Many homes boast the same fans and lights from the year they were built. It’s hard to believe but 1994 was over 20 years ago, and while that doesn’t seem that long in some ways, check out pictures from around that date and see what you were wearing. Yep, a house built in 1994 looks like that too.
- Install new door knobs and hinges. Brass is out. Brushed nickel and aged bronze are in. While changing knobs and hinges may cost about $20 – $40 per door, it’s a simple DIY project that can easily upgrade the look of your home.
- Upgrade faucets. Just like door knobs, brass faucets are no longer complimentary to your home. New faucets can be a quick, inexpensive upgrade to a bathroom, which might eliminate the need to update counter tops and cabinetry.
- Change your light bulbs. I promise this is something you can do yourself. It may sound ridiculous, but properly lit rooms can make a home sparkle. Under lit rooms are gloomy. So, unless the Addams Family look is your goal, bump up the wattage or add a lamp. Guests will love seeing the new ceiling fans, door knobs, and faucets. Add some exterior lighting and that front door will pop too.
If you are planning to stay in your home for several years, not every upgrade is necessary. To enjoy your home, you don’t have to have the latest in brushed nickel or aged bronze, but it’s best to stay up with some of the trends so you don’t get too far behind and later have a massive renovation project. In addition, when the day comes to sell, these simple and fairly low cost projects could be the difference in finding or losing a buyer.
Adding Value To Your Home
Are you selling your home and looking for a way to add value to your home? You can’t live in your home for 15 years, place it on the market and expect premium dollar without replacing your carpet! So start with replacing your carpet.
I was at a new construction home the other day and one of the reasons people buy a new construction home is just so they do not have to worry about toe nail clippings in pre-existing carpet. My recommendation to people who are selling their homes is to REPLACE your carpet and buy a nice pad! When you ask potential buyers to take off their shoes and walk through your home, you want to make sure you have carpet they feel comfortable stepping on! Even if you don’t buy top of the line carpet, please buy a good pad.
4 years ago my husband and I started paying cash for everything and it was HARD! Yet, don’t go out to dinner, don’t buy that extra fancy bottle of wine (unless you have set aside the money), and set aside the cash to invest in those things that can ultimately bring you a return in your investment. You can’t improve your home all at once. So, I recommend a project a year. I reach out to contractors and I tell them we have started to pay cash for everything so I need a price for a remodel. Then, I can save up for the remodel and pay them. Yet, I need to know the exact cost. If they can’t help me, I move on and find someone who can.
Last year we bought new carpet for our home. Our home was built in 2002 and the carpet was original. We investigated every option and ultimately decided to use Home Depot. They are a company that stands behind their product and they have done good work at multiple homes we have sold. You know you have a guarantee when you use a box store. Yes, I’m sure there can be horror stories. Yet, for us this seemed like the right option.
We used Trendy Threads II and we bought the premium pad. Go to home depot and price out what it would cost for your home. Save and upgrade your carpet prior to selling.
If you would like to know the value of your home or are looking to purchase a home in Central Indiana (Carmel, Fishers. Zionsville, Westfield, Fortville, McCordsville, Indianapolis, Avon etc…) please reach out to us at 317-572-5033 or 317-995-1128.
Did You Buy A Home In 2016? Did You File Your Exemptions? Do You Have The Receipts?
IMPORTANT INDIANA PROPERTY TAX NOTICE
If you bought a home in Indiana in 2016 it is important all your exemptions are filed. You would have received a gold rod sheet detailing what you need to do in your title work package.
• If you bought a home in 2016, you most likely filed for your homestead deduction at closing, however it isimperative that you verify it was accepted and posted by the Auditor prior to December 31, 2016.
• If you sign and date the sales disclosure/application and close by December 31, 2016 you have until January 5, 2017 to file for the homestead deduction.
• If you refinanced or took out a new mortgage AFTER January 1, 2016, you will have until December 31, 2017 to file for your mortgage deduction.
• If you took out a mortgage prior to January 1, 2016 but after March 1, 2015 you have until December 31, 2016 to file for your mortgage deduction.
You will need to bring your key number or tax parcel number along with your mortgage recording number, lender name and loan balance when you file.
Beginning January 2016 and after, even if the use or ownership of the property changes later in the year, a deduction OR exemption validly in place on January 1 will remain in place for the current tax year.
For additional information on the filing of deductions and/or the required forms, please visit: http://in.gov/dlgf/8516.htm
We have some amazing homes for sale in Central Indiana – Carmel, Fishers, Tipton, and Indianapolis. Click here to see the homes we have listed and call us at 317-572-5033 if we can help you in the purchase or sale of your next home. Click the following link to view the Listings:
http://matrix.miborblc.com/DE.asp?k=509049XQ537&p=DE-9330155-229
Here’s to a happy experience as you sell your house and buy your next home!
Century 21 Agent Elisabeth Lugar works as a part of the Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz providing local expertise to help people buy, build, sell, and relocate in the Greater Indianapolis Area. Her team has been voted a Pinnacle Quality Service Team by her clients and is a Master Team at Century 21 Scheetz.
Elisabeth Lugar, Broker-REALTOR / Relocation Specialist, Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz, 4929 E. 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240, 317-995-1128 cellular; 317-572-5033 office
Great Time With Century 21 Scheetz Listening To Speaker Memory Expert Ron White
Incredible afternoon learning memory tips from speaker Memory Expert Ron White. 3 years ago Jack and I joined Century 21 Scheetz. Being a part of Century 21 Scheetz has allowed us more and more freedom to serve our clients. This year we have been able to help home buyers and home sellers reach their real estate goals. It was so great to get some memory tips so we can better serve our clients.
Just this past 2 weeks I showed clients homes and having the ability to remember homes and the qualities and characteristics my clients like in a home helps to better serve my clients.Celebrating with fellow Century 21 Scheetz Pacesetters.
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Here’s to a happy experience as you sell your house and buy your next home!
Century 21 Agent Elisabeth Lugar works as a part of the Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz providing local expertise to help people buy, build, sell, and relocate in the Greater Indianapolis Area. Her team has been voted a Pinnacle Quality Service Team by her clients and is a Master Team at Century 21 Scheetz.
Elisabeth Lugar, Broker-REALTOR / Relocation Specialist, Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz, 4929 E. 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240, 317-995-1128 cellular; 317-572-5033 office
Zillow: The Good The Bad And … The Good
Zillow is a great consumer tool when you are investigating moving to a new city, state, or country. It allows you to get to know the area, the type of homes for sale, a general price of what homes are selling for, and is an excellent online tool to get familiar with homes in general.
For homeowners who are selling their homes it can be a frustration. Why? Because Zillow pulls their information from the Realtor database and there is no quality control for the data that is input. The computer directly gathers information from the generating source. In Central Indiana, MIBOR is the database where all Realtors enter their listing information for the homes they have been hired to sell. MIBOR has correct information. Zillow then pulls most of that information onto their site.
Zillow also will have homes that are listed that are not currently for sale, sold 2 years ago, and even have million dollar homes with an erroneous sale price of $200,000. How does this happen? I don’t really know. I can only guess that some computer algorithm is pulling inaccurate information.
Am I a fan of Zillow? Absolutely! I think it is an excellent tool to market homes. As a Realtor I regularly advertise on Zillow because it is the online website where most consumers begin their search.
If you are a consumer looking for a home or a homeowner and your home is listed on Zillow, just know that not all information is accurate. Contact a Realtor for accurate information.
If you are in Central Indiana and would like accurate information on homes for sale. We are here to help! If you are outside of Indiana we are part of a relocation team and can refer you to an agent anywhere… even globally. We have helped relocate families from South Korea, Brazil, Germany, England, etc. to Indiana and can provide those who are located outside Indiana with good Realtors who can help.
Here’s to a happy experience as you sell your house and buy your next home!
Century 21 Agent Elisabeth Lugar works as a part of the Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz providing local expertise to help people buy, build, sell, and relocate in the Greater Indianapolis Area. Her team has been voted a Pinnacle Quality Service Team by her clients and is a Master Team at Century 21 Scheetz.
Elisabeth Lugar, Broker-REALTOR / Relocation Specialist, Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz, 4929 E. 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240, 317-995-1128 cellular; 317-572-5033 office
Exquisite 5 Bedroom Home For Sale In Fishers Indiana! $595,000 Call Elisabeth Lugar, Lugar Real Estate Team 317-572-503
Exquisite 5 Bedroom / 4 Bathroom Custom Home Located at 10581 Tremont Dr Fishers IN 46037 features a Studio Apartment above the Carriage Garage, Walkout Basement with full kitchen and bath on nearly 3/4 acres private lot.
Click here to link to BLC: http://matrix.miborblc.com/matrix/shared/w0cL7DdcZh/10581TremontDrive
Take the tour here: www.10581TremontDr.C21.com
This large well maintained home offers over 5500 square feet of living space including an amazing finished walk-out basement like none other. New interior paint and carpet (2015), newer furnace and A/C units (2012) with laser duct cleaning system, irrigation and a phenomenal home site of nearly three quarters of an acre with beautiful mature trees and a small creek are a few of the many extras!
The main level floorplan is open and functional for everyday family living. The kitchen with built-in appliances, tons of cabinets and plentiful newer granite counter space, tile backsplash, large pantry and large entertainer’s island with a breakfast/snack bar for on the go family members. The large breakfast/lunch nook which shares the same designer style tile floors with the kitchen overlooks and provides passage to the newly finished expansive deck overlooking a breath taking backyard not easily found in Fishers. Enjoying breakfast/lunch will never be the same as the beautiful large mature trees and small creek not only accentuates the beauty of the backyard, but provides another rarity in Fishers….privacy. The home’s large family room features beamed ceiling, masonry fireplace, built-ins and is an open view from the kitchen and breakfast/lunch nook. An office with custom built-in cabinets and workstations provides an exceptional area to manage the household or homework.
Four wonderfully sized bedrooms grace the second floor of the main home and all have abundant closet space to match. One secondary bedroom is considerably oversized and can be dual purpose such as a bedroom and dance studio for an aspiring dancer. The master with a totally updated bath fit for royalty includes his & her separate vanities, heated tile floor, large comfortable step-in separate shower, separate large garden tub and large walk-in closet.
Be ready when you look at this basement! It is exceptionally designed to be like no other and will surely be the talk of the party, friends, neighbors and family. Ample space for a rec area, home theatre area with the ability to watch more than one tv and the home’s second fireplace featuring a detailed artistic hand carved mantle, large tile floor entertaining bar with all appliances plus bonus appliances such as ice maker, trash compactor, wine refrigerator, ample bar and table seating area, bonus room and full bath with steam shower! There is a large patio outside the basement for the opportunity to enjoy private quiet time. There is also additional storage in the basement. This basement is “jaw dropper” that will be the talk of family & friends for some time!
A very rare and sought after feature is an additional two car all brick custom garage with an additional boat/RV parking pad with retaining wall. To add to this unique executive style home and provide value is a 565 square foot living quarters with its own heat/cooling system, kitchenette and full bath above the second car custom built garage! An outstanding space for a nanny’s/mother-in-law quarters, long term guests, income producing property or an office for professionals that may be seeking to minimize overhead costs of a separate office. It is a one-of-a-kind feature of homes in our area!
The homesite of nearly three quarters of an acre cannot be duplicated! The wonderful mature trees of lush green in spring and summer and the beautiful colors of orange, yellow and red of autumn are unimaginably beautiful! A small creek winds through the backyard for added beauty and makes this a very unique property. The large full trees and creek provide privacy as well as beauty. There is also an opportunity for family and friends to enjoying the outdoors huddled around the backyard fire pit.
Jack Lugar and Elisabeth Lugar
The Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz
Masters Team and Quality Service Producer
317-572-5033, LugarTeam@C21Scheetz.com
Call us today at 317-572-5033 if you would like to schedule a showing on this house or would like to set up a buyers consultation.
Click here for slide show: http://10581tremontdr.c21.com/
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Wonderful 3 Bed Ranch With Walkout Basement Home For Sale-Carmel
145 Bexhill Dr. Carmel IN 46032
Wonderful 3 Bedroom 3 Bath Ranch w/ Walkout Basement Home near Downtown Carmel Arts District w/ nearly an acre of land. Kitchen w/ stainless appliances & wrap around corian counters. Open floor plan. FP in Great Room overlooking serene backyard. Basement w/ wetbar, rec/theater room, leadg to 4 season sunroom. Fam Rm leads to wrap around walkways & decks on upper level. Wood Floors. Roof 8 years old. Great character w/ many options & close to everything. 2 Car Garage. Attends Carmel High Schl.
Agent to Agent Remarks: Exclusions & Commission Disclosures & Financial Information
Home has been taken care off. Built in 1966. A buyer could move right in yet may want to do updates to increase value. Architectural shingles on roof. Hardwood floors on main installed 6 years ago. Theater Equip Negotiable. Jenn Air stove with downdraft.
Click Here for the BLC: http://matrix.miborblc.com/matrix/shared/GjBn7xYvqj/145BexhillDrive
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HOME SITS ON .83 ACRES |
KITCHEN WITH STAINLESS APPLIANCES |
EXTERIOR FRONT |
ENTRY WITH DOUBLE DOORS & TILE FLOOR |
FOYER WITH WONDERFUL LIGHTING |
TRADITIONAL RANCH WITH MODERN FLAIR |
GREAT ROOM WITH WOODBURNING FIREPLACE |
GREAT ROOM WITH WONDERFUL LIGHT OVERLOOKING THE BACKYARD |
STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, JENN AIR DISHWASHER, AND COOKTOP WITH DOWN DRAFT |
WRAP AROUND CORIAN COUNTERS |
WONDERFUL KITCHEN WITH WOODFLOORS INSTALLED 6 YEARS AGO |
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FAMILY ROOM ADJACENT TO KITCHEN WITH BUILT INS |
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OPEN FLOOR PLAN |
GREAT LIGHTING |
LOCATED JUST DOWN THE ROAD FROM THE CARMEL ARTS DISTRICT |
WRAP AROUND CORIAN COUNTERS WITH BARSTOOLS |
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OPEN FLOOR PLAN |
WETBAR LOCATED IN BASEMENT |
THEATER ROOM LOCATED IN WALKOUT BASEMENT |
THEATER ROOM LOCATED IN WALKOUT BASEMENT |
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4 SEASON SUNROOM |
4 SEASON SUNROOM |
PATIO JUST OFF GREAT ROOM |
WONDERFUL WOODED LOT. |
Have questions? Call Elisabeth VarnHagen Lugar at 317-995-1128 or Jack Lugar at 317-572-5033
Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz
4929 E. 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240
317-995-1128 cellular; 317-572-5033 office
→ LugarRealEstate.com
Moving around the corner or the world? Call us today to get started! A bit about us:
- Voted for Pinnacle Quality Service by our Clients
- Master Team Producer
- We provide local expertise to help people buy, build, sell, and relocate in the Greater Indianapolis Area.
Wonderful 5 Bedroom Custom Home For Sale In Fishers
Wonderful 5 Bedroom Steven Hoss Custom Home in Springs of Cambridge. Located at 13583 Creekridge Ln, Fishers – Mc Cordsville, IN 46055 in Hamilton County.
Wonderful 5BD, 4 + 2 BA Custom Home in Springs of Cambridge. Entertainers Kitchen w/ new Granite & SS appliances + Gas Cooking, Island & Pantry. Brkfst Room leads to Sunrom. GR w/ Stone FP & Surrnd Snd. Lg DR & Office w/ bltins & Frnch Drs + Lots of Natural Light! Wood Flrs & Tile + New Carpet & New Paint. Updated Entertainers Basement w/ Daylight Windows, Wetbar, 2 Storage Rms, Lots of Space for Pool Table etc. Wooded Private CulDeSac. Full Irrigatn. Fenced Bckyd. New Furnace, AC, & Water Htr.
Click here for the BLC Sheet: http://matrix.miborblc.com/matrix/shared/RyQXvcCv0h/13583CreekridgeLane
Click here for the Virtual Tour: http://13583CreekridgeCt.C21.com/
Dormer Windows. Main Floor Features Open Floor Plan & Vaulted Entry. 3 Car Attached SL Garage leads to Mudroom w/ Built-ins. Gorilla Basketball Goal Stays. Professionally Landscaped yard + Aggregate Patio, Firepit + Space for pool, playset, etc. All Bedrooms have Bathrooms Attached & Walk-in Closets. Dual Sump w/ Backup with Water Softener & Radon System. Nature Trail leads directly to Neighborhood Park which is Directly across from Geist Reservoir. Home attends HSE Schools. Built by Steve Hoss.
Jack Lugar and Elisabeth Lugar
The Lugar Team at Century 21 Scheetz
Masters Team and Quality Service Producer
317-572-5033, LugarTeam@C21Scheetz.com
Call us today at 317-572-5033 if you would like to schedule a showing on this house or would like to set up a buyers consultation.
SIDELOAD GARAGE WITH GORILLA BASKETBALL GOAL |
OVERSIZED COVERED PORCH |
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SPRINGS OF CAMBRIDGE CUSTOM HOME |
CUSTOM KITCHEN WITH NEW GRANITE |
BEAUTIFUL 2 STORY ENTRY |
CUSTOM KITCHEN WITH STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES |
SPACIOUS DINING ROOM |
KITCHEN OVERLOOKS SPACIOUS BACKYARD |
SPACIOUS DINING ROOM WITH BEAUTIFUL FRONT WINDOW |
FORMAL DINING ROOM CONNECTS TO KITCHEN |
DEN WITH BEAUTIFUL BUILT INS |
DEN IS COMPLETE WITH FRENCH DOORS |
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GREAT ROOM HAS A BEAUTIFUL STONE FIREPLACE |
GREAT ROOM HAS WONDERFUL ARCHES |
GREAT ROOM OVERLOOKS SPACIOUS BACKYARD |
GREAT ROOM HAS VERY OPEN LAYOUT |
BASEMENT IS OPEN WITH WETBAR, ROOM FOR HOME THEATER, POOL TABLE, 2 STORAGE ROOMS, AND EATING AREA |
WONDERFUL OPEN KITCHEN CONNECTS TO LAUNDRY MUDROOM |
BASEMENT FEATURES WETBAR AND DAYLIGHT WINDOWS |
5 BEDROOMS ARE THROUGH OUT THIS CUSTOM HOME |
3 SSEASON SUNROOM |
SPACIOUS BACKYARD |
