3 Quick Kitchen and Bath Updates To Do Before Selling Your Home
Many people say it’s the kitchen and bathrooms that really sell a home.
Buyers prefer that both are clean and in move-in condition. They want to unpack their dishes and glassware as well as their toiletry bag and feel comfortable in their new home right away.
Many homeowners, however, don’t have the time, energy or financial resources for major kitchen and bathroom renovations. Perhaps during their time in the home, the seller focused on turning the basement into a media room or making necessary roof and siding repairs. When it’s time to sell, how can a cash-strapped seller appeal to buyers who want — even expect — an upgraded kitchen and bathroom?
Here are three affordable, quick, easy tips for sprucing up your kitchen and bath right before going on the market.
1. Paint the kitchen cabinets.
A fresh coat of paint to old kitchen cabinets gives the appearance of new. Photo from kitchen-news.info.
It would be too costly to go out and purchase new cabinets just before you sell. But you and your real estate agent despise the old knotty pine or dark grain cabinets from 20 years ago. A quick fix is to paint them white. It will make the kitchen appear lighter, brighter and cleaner. A fresh coat of paint will give the appearance of new, which will appease many buyers. This can be done in one or two days’ time for just a few hundred dollars.
Stone Mill Satin Nickel Arch Cabinet Pulls at Overstock.com
2. Put some new hardware on the kitchen cabinets.
After you’ve brightened up the kitchen with some new paint, throw on some brushed nickel cabinet door hardware. This hardware with the new white paint in the backdrop will make the kitchen pop. Buyers’ eyes may be drawn away from the older counter tops or appliances. And, given that the cabinets are at or just above eye level, the hardware may be the first thing they notice in the kitchen. You can buy new hardware for just a few dollars and install them yourself
3. Re-grout or clean the bathroom tile and grout.
Cleaning or regrouting tile floors makes a huge difference to prospective buyers. Photo from Pro-Care Tile and Grout Cleaning of Nashville.
Bathrooms should be sanitary places and a new buyer wants to feel comfortable with their new bathroom. Nothing is more of a turn off than a bathroom where the grout is dirty or moldy or full of soap scum. At a minimum, spend an hour with a toothbrush and some bleach and scrub that grout. This is something you can do on your own in just a half a day. If the bathroom is too far-gone, you may want to spend the money on a tiler to regrout the tile. This will make the bathroom pop, giving a new, clean feeling to this important room
There may be other, more important projects for which you’ve budgeted. In many cases, your real estate agent may suggest painting some of the rooms a more neutral color or spending some money on storage for excess furniture. Staging and home preparation are unique for every home. But, given the focus buyers always put on kitchens and bathrooms, these three tips should be seriously considered as you prepare to go on the market.
Source: Zillow blog
Restaurant Review: Rosepepper Cantina in East Nashville
Kelli Corbin Hudson, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
Okay Amigos, bust out your sombreros and head to East Nashville – it’s time for some Rosepepper Cantina!
Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a date night with a little kick, Rosepepper offers fabulous Mexican cuisine, a fun environment and margaritas that can’t be beat between here and Punta Mita! Along with your chips and yummy salsa, I highly recommend the buffalo white cheese dip to begin – WOW – think queso with a fabulous surprise.
I’m also quite a fan of their fajitas, whether you go marinated beef or chicken (or BOTH!), you won’t be disappointed. The Rosepepper Special is also a popular choice, which is shredded marinated beef or wonderfully seasoned chicken, served enchilada style and they are YUM–O!
SO, bring the family, bring the office, or hey, fly solo and head to Eastland Avenue where you’ll be right in the heart of Mexico. I mean, um, East Nashville – OLE!
Reviewed by:
Kelli Corbin Hudson
mobile: 615.830.7778
office: 615.463.3333
email: kellicorbinhudson@gmail.com
Sotheby’s International Realty Country Homes
The Sotheby’s International Realty network specializes in lifestyles from farm and ranch, vineyard, golf, to ski and waterfront living. Visitors can explore extraordinary properties that the Sotheby’s International Realty network represents all over the world and find a property that matches their lifestyle. If a fine trophy ranch, legendary horse farm or an iconic rural retreat is your definition of the perfect lifestyle, then we invite you to explore the many extraordinary farm and ranch style properties the Sotheby’s International Realty® network represents all over the world.
Below are country homes in Nashville and throughout the Sotheby’s International Realty network that offer a quiet retreat in the countryside.
This spectacular plantation estate in the heart of Tennessee, offered at $27,500,000, is one of the finest properties available in America today. The exquisitely craft 27,000 sq. ft. Georgian style manor house sits majestically on 700 acres of Williamson County's finest acres. This gently rolling property offers a stunning landscape of old-growth trees, creeks, orchards, crops and a glittering 12 acre pond. With an eight stall horse barn, 3 miles of riding trails, and a secluded log cabin, Eagles Rest will appeal to the equestrian family and outdoorsman alike. Click on the image for more photos and information from Sotheby's International Realty.
French manor and stud farm dating from 1536. Acres of woodlands and meadows with ranked river, This property is devoted to recreation with a park, 9 hole golf course, polo hunting, equitation and Calvados production. Also includes press, former grist and linseed mill, bread oven, dovecote and stables (32 stalls). Exceptional manor house thanks to its period features, reception rooms and its authenticity. Price upon request. Click on the image for more photos and information from Sotheby's International Realty.
Located in Loures, Portugal, 15 km from Lisbon, this amazing property is in a very quiet area with a wide plot, excellent sun exposure, several fruit trees, beautifully well maintained gardens, and a charming cottage with eight bedrooms, six full and two half baths. Close to several golf courses, it is the ideal choice for those seeking a quiet country lifestyle, only one step away from the city. Offered at $5,956,320. Click on the image for more photos and information from Sotheby's International Realty.
This wonderful property is perfect for someone looking to develop adventure tourism or a private get-away. With 750 meters of river front on the Futaleufu River, a world class rafting/kayaking/fishing river, the land is comprised of approximately 79 acres flat arable land and 123 acres of forested mountains, which has been replanted with 3,500 trees. The Lodge includes a large Quincho with 360 degree views, living room, dining room, large center fireplace, industrial kitchen, bar, outsized riverside deck, and wooden hot tub with views of Futa river. The current owner runs a highly successful luxury and adventure tourism operation. Offered at $4,700,000. Click on the image for more photos and information from Sotheby's International Realty.
Nashville’s Livability is an Economic Development Asset
According to a recent blog on BusinessClimate.com, “People are drawn to places where they can visualize themselves living and working and doing it better than anywhere else.” Livability is a factor with the power to either make or break a region, its companies and their employees. So what makes Nashville such a great region for a relocating talent and businesses? Three key reasons are Nashville’s talent attraction, anchor points and quality of life.
As Music City, Nashville naturally attracts the creative class that includes musicians and performers. Because the Nashville area’s economy is among the most diverse of that in any U.S. region, the region also continues to attract high-quality workers in all business sectors. Nashville supports many innovative and aggressive local programs to recruit workers to Middle Tennessee. Chamber-led workforce initiatives include programming targeted to young professionals, support of public education and higher education, the InternNashville program, an interactive CD-ROM, partnerships to support HR professionals and targeted industry worker attraction and retention.
According to BusinessClimate.com’s blog, “The more hospitals, colleges and universities in a city, the better the workforce and the higher the level of innovation and business development due to research and technology initiatives.” Nashville’s health care industry has a huge national and international impact. It impacts the economy each year by bringing in $30 billion and creating 210,000 jobs. Aside from health care, Nashville has numerous higher-education institutions. Nashville boasts 18 colleges and universities, and 100,000 college students. Sixty percent of the annual graduates remain in Nashville, and these educated workers help form the backbone of our workforce.
Quality of life is a primary reason so many relocate to Nashville. (As we write this, it is 54 degrees and sunny in January.) The region features all four seasons, and the average temperature ranges from 49 in the winter, to 89 in the summer time. To take advantage of beautiful days, people can flock to Nashville’s 92 public parks, 69 miles of greenways, six state and national parks, two recreational lakes, 56 public and private golf courses and many other recreational places. More nationally recognized is Nashville’s art scene. The thirst for good music is easily quenched with Nashville’s 124 performance venues, 79 live music houses, 49 performing arts halls, and more than 120,000 seats in a wide array of entertainment space. Nashville has its own opera, ballet, symphony, children’s theater, art galleries and almost anything someone could want in the arts. As for sports, Nashville is home to two major-league teams: the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and the NHL’s Nashville Predators.
Talent development and quality of place/livability are key strategic drivers of the Chamber’s Partnership 2020 economic development strategy. The amenities of our great city attract people – which, in turn, attracts strong companies and creates an ideal environment for businesses to grow and prosper.
If you or someone you know is planning on relocating to Nashville, click here to refer to our relocation guide courtesy of Kelli Corbin Hudson, Relocation Director of The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty.
Video: The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty – Excellence in Marketing
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty presents our top agents who talk about the excellence in marketing from Sotheby’s International Realty.
Marketing elements include gorgeous photography, beautiful glossy brochures, email marketing, social media, blogs, online media and more.
The international reach of the Sotheby’s International Realty is unparalleled as well as the quality the name exudes.
Agents who are speaking on behalf of The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty are: Chris Mannino, Pat Heckman, Nichole Holmes, Kelli Corbin Hudson, and Anne Ruark.
Who Needs Super Bowl Tickets When You’ve Got a Man Cave?
It may sound like a football fan’s dream to attend a Super Bowl game live and in person. But really? Indianapolis? In February?
Unless you are a rabid fan of the New York Giants or the New England Patriots — the conference champs who will square off in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday, Feb. 5 at the Lucas Oil Stadium — there really are better places to watch the NFL title game.
Like, a tricked-out, beer-tapped man cave!
Homes with “man caves” — or rooms with giant TVs, sports memorabilia, wet bars, and comfy couches — have grown in popularity over the years and have become the go-to place on big game days. Or, dare we say big movie nights?
Just in time for the big game, we found some Sotheby’s International Realty homes for sale with man caves that offer the ultimate place to watch on Super Bowl Sunday. So, sit back, pop a cold one and pass the chips and dip while we tour a few man cave beauties.
1037 Vaughn Crest Drive, Franklin, TN 37069 (above)
For Sale: $3,995,000
Masterfully crafted gated estate located in LaurelBrooke. With exotic hardwoods, hand hewned beams, elevator, salt water heated pool & spa, and climate controlled veranda. The terrace level features the ultimate man cave complete with theater room, wine cellar, sauna, wet bar, and adjacent billiards and ping pong tables.
Eastern Townships, Lac-Brome, Quebec, Canada
For Sale: $8,959,393
Tredilion Park english manor built and designed by James Wright and Scott Yetman in 2005. The ground floor is devoted to daytime activities, the first floor is allotted to the bedrooms and the library’s upper level, and the basement houses the entertainment areas. This sophisticated and professionally designed man cave is adjacent to a full bar, wine cellar, and sauna.
3594 Tuxedo Court, Atlanta, GA 30305
For Sale: $4,850,000
Incredible estate in Atlanta’s Tuxedo Park. Located on a quiet enclave of only 8 homes, this property has had a complete renovation in 2010. Architecturally designed to maximize natural lighting with huge doors that open to a loggia, outdoor kitchen, 2 pools with waterfalls and a grotto. Very private smart home with attached guest house, elevator, and fully finished terrace level including a man cave/media room, wine cellar and full kitchen, billiards and second loggia to lower pool.
9124 Eagle Point Loop Rd SW, Lakewood, WA 98498
For Sale: $1,295,000
Cars, kitchen, couches, and TVs – what more could a guy ask for? “Designed for a car enthusiast,” this 7,800-sq ft home sits on a gorgeous, waterfront parcel of Lakewood real estate with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, 2 dining rooms, library, hobby room, and a 1,000-sq ft entertaining deck. The only space needed this weekend, however, is the “man cave,” which is equipped with a full kitchen, car elevator, bathroom, workshop, and adjacent billiards room.
Sources: Zillow Blog and Sotheby’s International Realty
What Does Warren Buffet Think About Buying A Home?
Warren Buffet is seen by many as the greatest investor of our time. When he speaks, people listen. Like anyone else in his position of influence, he is criticized by some for using his bullhorn to promote his own business agendas at times. That makes it very interesting when we occasionally learn of how he privately advises those closest to him.
Such a situation occurred this week. Debbie Bosanek, Warren Buffet’s secretary of 37 years, recently purchased a second home in Surprise, Arizona.
In an article in the Omaha World Herald, Mrs. Bosanek discussed her reasons for purchasing a second home and the personal advice she received from Mr. Buffet.
“I just thought it was time to buy a home. Warren tells me that it will be the best opportunity in my lifetime. Mortgage rates are low and prices have dropped dramatically…I share Warren’s view about the future of America, and we believe that our country will do just fine. I’m happy to make this investment.”
The greatest investor of the last century privately has told the people closest to him that buying a home right now “will be the best opportunity in [their] lifetime”.
That’s good enough for us. How about you?
Source: KCMBlog
Geodesic designed home in Nashville’s West Meade Park
The sun does not shine for a few trees and flowers,
but for the wide world’s joy.
- Henry Ward Beecher
Do you seek privacy, yet you want to live in close proximity to everyday conveniences? Well this is the perfect house! Located in West Meade Park, the home at 6612 Chatsworth Place will give you all this and more space than you can imagine.
The great room in this home for sale in the West Meade area of Nashville is a tribute to modern architecture....and is an incredible point of access to the natural world just beyond. Click on the image for more information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
The home, originally built in 1985, has bit of a modern flair with geometric angles inside and out. This geodesic designed home has been perfectly situated among the trees on just less than an acre of land. The windows and decks allow you to fully take in the nature that surrounds you here. Once you have entered the home you will have a hard time believing you are still in-town.
You'll never believe you're still in one of the most convenient in town locations in this home that is perfectly set amongst the trees. Click on the image for more from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
The main level has the living area, kitchen, dining room and two bedrooms. The main floor is oak hardwoods and continues to add to the “one with nature” feel the home exudes, and includes a carpeted, private guest wing.
The upstairs loft is dedicated to the comforts of the owner of the home at 6612 Chatsworth Place in Nashville's West Meade Park. Click on the photo for more information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
The loft is entirely a master suite. What luxury to be able to escape to the privacy of your room knowing it is completely separate from everything else. There is a separate sitting area and large master bath with jetted tub. The tub is perfectly situated where you can look out a window to the mature trees outside. It feels like you are in your own private tree house, worlds away from the hectic day. Think about how low-maintenance the yard is in this home since it is in such a natural setting!
Imagine standing at this expanse of nature each morning to reflect on your day!
The home has a large unfinished basement with tall ceilings great for storage or maybe you would want to finish it and add to the already spacious house. The home offers the owner lots of living space and a quiet peaceful retreat from the city when you are just minutes away from anything you could possible need.
The stress just falls off your shoulders when you are here. Who would not want to begin and end each day feeling that way?
Three bedrooms and Two Bath
Offered for $404,900
6612 Chatsworth Place
Nashville, TN 37205
For more information, please contact:
Charlotte Witzenburg, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
Charlotte Witzenburg
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
(615) 293-8005
New Green Hills office for Nashville luxury real estate company The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
Presenting a video tour of the new luxury real estate office of The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty. Conveniently located in Nashville’s Green Hills, our ground floor office has easy access to parking….and to the most extraordinary agents and properties in the world.
Please come by and have a cup of coffee in the The Lipman Group Cafe, and tour the entire new space.
We are located at:
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
2002 Richard Jones Road
Suite C-104
Nashville, TN 37215
(Map)
Our phone number has remained the same: 615.463.3333.
We look forward to serving our real estate customers and clients from our beautiful new space!
Click here to take the video tour of the new Green Hills office of The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty....Nashville's luxury real estate resource.
Experience a new SothebysRealty.com
The Sotheby’s International Realty digital marketing strategy begins with sothebysrealty.com, a website re-architected to be the core of interconnected websites and digital marketing partnerships. With about 4 million unique visitors, (38% from outside the United states), spending 13 minutes on average viewing 55 million pages annually, sothebysrealty.com is the source of luxury real estate content. No matter if you click, tap or swipe you can experience the unique through sothebysrealty.com.
New to the website: five specialty markets ranging in lifestyles from farm and ranch, vineyard, golf, to ski and waterfront living.
Also new to the site are five pages made specifically for specialty markets. The Sotheby’s International Realty network specializes in lifestyles from farm and ranch, vineyard, golf, to ski and waterfront living. Visitors can explore the extraordinary properties the Sotheby’s International Realty network represents all over the world and connect with a professional who can help find a property that matches their lifestyle.
Farm & Ranch Lifestyle on SothebysRealty.com
Finally, sothebysrealty.com represents the starting point of a comprehensive online marketing strategy that expands the exposure of homes to the most significant media companies and real estate focused websites in the world.
Restaurant Review: Margot Café in East Nashville
Kelli Corbin Hudson, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
I could almost be back in Italy. The scene is warm and quaint with exposed original brick and a loft supported by generous wooden beams. The staff is friendly, the crowd is coming in, and the aromatics are reminding me why I came: to eat perfectly prepared, locally and regionally grown foods in a way I can only find at Café Margot.
With a menu changing daily based on Margot’s latest local finds, there is something on the menu for everyone. Handmade pastas, homemade pizzas and a house ice cream each night will not only leave your appetite satisfied, you’ll start planning your return.
The menu begins with Course One. Here you’ll find surprisingly filling and tasty starters such as homemade focaccia bread or house made chips served with aioli. Both are delicious though I highly recommend the bread with the herb infused olive oil. In Course Two, you’ll find an unbelievable seasonal soup, a homemade pizza and other perfectly prepared small plates. Course Three is your main meal, and I really don’t know how you’ll choose. I do find the handmade pastas are divine, but you’ll also find a “fish dish” or two that are great, a roasted chicken that is cooked perfectly to a golden brown, and a few surprises along the way such as Rabbit Confit. I’ve heard from several that the Duck is out of this world and their favorite meal Margot prepares.
Finally, I must encourage you to skip whatever necessary (or hey, just indulge!) to enjoy the amazing ice cream of the evening. From almond in the summer to egg nog in the winter, I haven’t found one that I couldn’t finish.
Whatever you choose for any course, I don’t foresee you being disappointed and be sure to meet Bryan at the bar who is great at helping you pick a wine to pair with your cuisine. Come hungry. Make reservations. Bon appetit!
Reviewed by:
Kelli Corbin Hudson
mobile: 615.830.7778
office: 615.463.3333
email: kellicorbinhudson@gmail.com
The Ins and Outs of Homeowner’s Insurance
One of the things people rarely pay much attention to when they buy a property, is whether they have adequate dwelling hazard and liability insurance, otherwise known as homeowner’s insurance. Getting a policy is easy and almost always obtained when someone closes escrow on their home or rental property. But is it the right type and amount of insurance? Most people reading this sentence probably would admit that they have no idea about their homeowner’s coverage, but they should know, considering it protects their largest asset.
Let’s run through a few basics so that you can help yourself understand your policy and ensure you have the proper coverage in place for your needs. Go head and pull out your insurance policy binder, it’s about 40 pages thick, then flip to the third or fourth page that contains line items like: Building/Dwelling, Separate Structures, Personal Property, Loss of Use, Medical, and Extended Replacement. This section also includes corresponding amounts of maximum coverage, which tells you how much coverage you have in case of a loss. You need to look at each line item of coverage and discuss with your agent if you believe that amount is sufficient.
Building/Dwelling Coverage
The top item is usually for building/dwelling/property and that covers the cost to rebuild your property for covered perils like fire, wind damage, vandalism, etc. The coverage is based on your selected estimate of the cost to rebuild the structure, not the land value as land rarely gets destroyed and regardless is not covered by insurance. Additionally, your normal policy does not cover earthquakes or floods, either, but you can get separate policies for these if you are in earthquake or flood-prone areas. Policies for these perils can be expensive, but you decide if it’s worth it. Other items are also not covered like wear and tear, so talk to your agent about what is and what isn’t covered.
While your agent can help you estimate how much coverage you need for one of the line items like building/dwelling (e.g., $400,000 coverage for a 2,500 square foot house based on the size, quality of building materials, age of property, etc), you ultimately pick the dollar amount of coverage. Don’t under-insure, but don’t over-insure, either. Most important is to make sure to review your policy each year and increase your coverage to an appropriate amount if local building costs increase.
Liability Coverage
Many people don’t know this but you also have liability coverage with your homeowner’s policy. For example, if your dog bites someone or if someone slips on your property and gets hurt and you get sued, the insurance provider will step in and pay for a lawyer to defend you and/or pay any settlement or judgment against you. But that coverage has a limit of how much they will pay, usually about $300,000. If you have net worth above that, you can buy additional liability coverage called an umbrella policy in increments of $1,000,000 of additional coverage. It’s dirt cheap too, like $350 per year for an additional million dollars in coverage, so go for it if you think you need it.
Deductibles
The deductible amount is chosen by you. A deductible is how much you pay out of pocket for a loss. If you have a $500 deductible, and there is a $7,500 loss, you pay the first $500 and the insurance carrier pays the other $7,000 up to your maximum covered loss. The higher the deductible you choose, the lower the annual insurance premium you pay. Likewise, the lower the deductible, the higher the annual insurance premium you pay. Discuss this with your insurance professional and decide what makes sense for you.
HOA/Common Interest Development Properties
If you own a unit in a condominium, townhome, co-op, PUD or any other common interest development, whether a personal residence or an investment property, make sure you have an interior HO-6 policy that covers you for damage to the inside of your unit, PLUS for liability. This isn’t covered by most homeowners association’s master insurance policy.
You don’t want to wait until you or your tenant accidentally floods the nine units below you and every one of those nine owners is looking to you to reimburse them for their losses. Your HO-6 policy should cover this liability and damage – discuss the coverage with your agent. You should also get a copy of your HOA’s master insurance policy and meet with your personal insurance agent to determine if there are any gaps in coverage.
Specialty Items
Additionally, normal policies don’t cover expensive jewelry, artwork, firearms, precious metals, etc. If you have expensive “other” items, make sure to discuss these with your agent and get the proper coverage in place.
The last item to note is that insurance is for major financial losses that will cause a disruption to your life and livelihood if you did not have the coverage in place to pay for all the damage. You generally should not make small claims because the insurance carriers will raise your rates and/or eventually if you make enough minor claims they may drop you from coverage. Reserve making claims for when everything hits the fan.
Having the proper type and amount of insurance in place is vital in today’s world. Pull out your policy and schedule a talk with your agent to discuss what you have and what you need. This should help you sleep better at night by knowing if there is a big loss, you’ve got some help on your side.
Source: Zillow Blog. Written by: Leonard Baron, MBA, CPA, a San Diego State University Lecturer, Zillow Blogger, and the author of several books including “Real Estate Ownership, Investment and Due Diligence 101 – A Smarter Way to Buy Real Estate”.
Video of Nashville real estate: Green Hills home for sale
Green Hills Home for Sale
2004 Lombardy Avenue - Nashville, TN 37215
Four bedrooms, three full bathrooms
Offered at $479,500
Nashville real estate - 2004 Lombardy Ave. Offered by The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty. Please click on the image for more information and additional photos.
For more information on this home for sale in Nashville, please contact:
Gloria Houghland, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
Gloria Houghland
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
gloria.houghland@sothebysrealty.com
615.943.4342
Paint and Decorating Trends for 2012
Go bold in 2012 or blend in – that’s the trend for paint and decorating in the new year. REALTOR® Magazine recently highlighted Debbie Zimmer, color expert at the Paint Quality Institute, forecast for color choices in 2012, but here are some more of the home trends she expects to catch on in decorating next year.
- Courtesy of The Paint Quality Institute
Matching Exteriors
On exteriors, shutter color choices often have been painted high-contrast greens, reds, or blacks. But in 2012, Zimmer sees the trend moving to a more monochromatic scheme for the exterior.
“You’ll see more shutters that are painted just a shade darker than the siding,” says Zimmer. “Owners of homes with stone exteriors can get in on things by matching the shutter color to the dominant color of the stone.”
Flashy Painted Patterns
A budget friendly way to decorate a room and still have big impact – painted patterns. Patterned paint will likely be decorating more walls in 2012, Zimmer says, from houndstooth finishes, lacy designs, to bold color blocking techniques.
“In some cases, pattern will be the main decorating feature in a room; in others, it will provide a subtle, textured backdrop for fine furnishings and artwork,” says Zimmer.
- Courtesy of The Paint Quality Institute
Black and White
The two color extremes can add a pop to interiors, from the contemporary apartment to even the historic home. Zimmer says pairing black-and-white is a “great way to freshen an interior with something smart and stylish,” Zimmer says.
For more information on popular trends in 2012, visit Styled Staged & Sold, a REALTOR® Magazine blog.
Luxury and Quality in this Home for Sale in Woodmont Waye
The results of quality work last longer than the shock of high prices. ~Author Unknown
Quality craftsmanship and unbelievable appointments are what you find in this five-year old home for sale in the Woodmont Waye subdivision in Nashville’s most perfect location.
An example of quality workmanship with thoughtful details is found in this home for sale in Nashville's Woodmont Waye subdivision. Please click on the image for more photos & information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
Open the quaint iron gate, step onto the stoop, and up to the solid wooden door. Surrounding you is rustic, old brick adorning the exterior of the home. Open that gorgeous wooden door and reclaimed and refurbished wood floors greet you throughout.
A gorgeous living room contributes to the natural flow of the floorplan, and is enveloped in crown molding and coffered ceilings.
Wood details such as crown molding, coffered ceilings and crown moldings are apparent in almost every room. Custom cabinetry can be found in the family room, baths and spacious kitchen. The main level also has a magnificent office with wainscoting perfect for the professional who enjoys working from home or for a home library.
The kitchen is fully stocked with high-end appliances and positioned for entertaining. Please click on the image for more photos and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
The kitchen has a grand island with granite countertops and a beverage cooler. Stainless appliances include double ovens and gas cooktop. The kitchen has more than enough storage for all of your cooking and entertaining treasures. It is truly the home chef’s dream all in a beautiful package.
A master suite that answers every question of luxury. Please click on the image for more photos and information.
The home has three bedrooms with a dream master suite. Imagine an in-suite office or separate sitting area, a coffee or wine bar and all the privacy you desire. The in-suite bath has split vanities and separate tub and shower….indeed a delightful retreat.
A sunroom ready to provide a relaxing interlude in this home for sale in Woodmont Waye.
There are extraordinary bonuses here too! An in-home elevator accesses all levels, a wonderful sunroom with gracious windows is perfect year round and an unbelievable fitness room will keep you from having to leave for the gym for an early morning workout.
An elevator serves all three levels of this luxury home for sale....from the gym to the public areas to the private retreats above. Click on the image for more photos and information.
This is a wonderfully spacious and well-appointed home. Certainly those accustomed to the finer things will enjoy the luxury found here.
Three Bedroom, Two Full Baths and One Half Bath
Offered at $850,000
133 Woodmont Blvd #B
Nashville, TN 37205
For more information, please contact:
Lawrence Lipman, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
Lawrence Lipman
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s Realty
larry.lipman@sothebysrealty.com
615.463.3333
Tips for Fireplace and Furnace Safety
Regular inspection and servicing of fireplaces and furnaces adds to comfort, makes them more economical, and most important, keeps them safe. Regular inspections can prevent a deadly house fire or the introduction of a silent killer: carbon monoxide.
Here’s our checklist to keep you cozy and safe during the winter months:
Wood-burning fireplaces
1. Inspection by a certified chimney sweep is a must. For heavy use, the chimney should be inspected and cleaned annually. Go up to five years if the fireplace is used only occasionally. The sweep should inspect for proper operation of the damper and for cracks in the flue liner, as well as sweeping the flue to remove creosote and other combustion byproducts.
2. Close the damper when the fireplace isn’t in use.
3. Install a chimney cap if you don’t already have one. You don’t want creatures building their nest in your flue.
4. When starting a fire, “prime” the flue by holding lighted newspaper at the back wall of the firebox to start the warm air rising.
5. Burn aged, dry hardwood if possible. Fir or pine burns hot and deposits creosote in the chimney. Don’t burn construction debris. It may contain toxic chemicals that will vaporize in the fire and could enter the living space.
6. Do not clean out the fireplace when the ashes are still hot. And dispose of the ashes in a place where wayward embers won’t start a fire.
Fireplace with gas starter
1. If the flame goes out, wait at least five minutes before attempting to relight the fireplace. This allows time to clear the fireplace of gas.
2. Be alert for unusual odors or odd-colored flames, which are often a sign that the fireplace is not operating properly. In such cases, contact your dealer or licensed technician for servicing. Contact the gas company if you smell gas when the unit is off.
Gas furnace maintenance
1. An annual maintenance check of a gas furnace extends the life of the appliance and ferrets out any hidden problems. A qualified heating contractor should vacuum out the unit, inspect the blower motor, inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, check the electronics and perform a multipoint checklist to make sure the furnace is operating properly.
2. Clean or replace the furnace filter frequently during the heating season. This ensures that air returning from the inside of the house is unobstructed and clean when entering the combustion chamber.
3. Keep vents, space heaters and baseboards clear of furniture, rugs and drapes to allow free air movement.
4. Ensure there is free airflow around your furnace and make sure there are no storage items obstructing airflow.
5. Do not store or use combustible materials, such as chemicals, paint, rags, clothing, draperies, paper, cleaning products, gasoline, or flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of the furnace.
6. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and lethal gas that can occur any time there is incomplete combustion or poor venting. Any home that contains fuel-burning appliances, such as a fireplace or furnace, should have a carbon monoxide alarm installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
These tips are courtesy of Inman News and Lowe’s. Click here for more information.
Video of Home for sale in Franklin, TN – 222 Winburn Lane
Beautiful home in absolutely move-in condition in Franklin’s River Landing subdivision. Five bedrooms, tons of storage, level lot, and architectural accents throughout. Crown moldings, wainscoting, trey ceilings, and all at an amazing price!
We invite you to watch this short video about the home, or click on the image below for more information and photos.
Located at 222 Winburn Lane Franklin,TN 37069 in the River Landing subdivision. Please click on the image for more information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
222 Winburn Lane
Franklin, TN 37069
Five bedrooms, four baths
Offered at $549,900
For more information, please contact:
Chris Mannino, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
Chris Mannino
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
615-299-7995
chris.mannino@sothebysrealty.com
Where to live in Nashville: Video of Green Hills
We love writing about Green Hills in Nashville – it’s an easy topic because homes there are just gorgeous and when you live there, you’re surrounded by many comforts.
Green Hills is an upscale neighborhood home to expansive lot for iconic Southern homes and estates. Known also for The Mall at Green Hills, this area of Nashville is established as the hub of chic stores and upscale shopping. The historic Bluebird Cafe calls Green Hills its home as does many of Nashville’s best public schools, including a few in the Top Five Elementary Schools in Nashville.
We love Green Hills so much that we have added it to the neighborhoods we’re profiling through video. Enjoy the video about Green Hills below, or click here to see all the Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty videos.
Click here to see the video about the upscale area of Green Hills from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
Pending Home Sales Post Strong Gain
Pending home sales rose strongly in October and remain above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
The Pending Home Sales Index*, a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, surged 10.4 percent to 93.3 in October from 84.5 in September and is 9.2 percent above October 2010 when it stood at 85.5. The data reflects contracts but not closings.
The Pending Home Sales Index* surged 10.4 percent to 93.3 in October from 84.5 in September and is 9.2 percent above October 2010 when it stood at 85.5. The data reflects contracts but not closings.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said improved contract activity is a hopeful sign. “Home sales have been plodding along at a sub-par level while interest rates are hovering at record lows and there is a pent-up demand from buyers who normally would have entered the market in recent years. We hope this indicates more buyers are taking advantage of the excellent affordability conditions,” he said.
“Many consumers are recognizing that home buyers in the past two years have had one of the lowest default rates in history. Moreover, continued inventory declines are another healthy sign for the housing market,” Yun added.
“Although contract signings are up, not all contracts lead to closings. Many potential home buyers inadvertently hurt their credit scores and chances of getting a mortgage through easily averted actions, such as cancelling an old credit line while taking on a new one,” Yun said. “Such actions could unwittingly prevent buyers from obtaining a mortgage if their credit score is close the margins of qualifying, or they might get a loan but with less favorable terms.”
NAR encourages consumers to be aware of their credit score and actions which could hurt or enhance it. HouseLogic.com, the association’s consumer website devoted to all aspects of homeownership, offers tips for improving credit scores here.
To view the full article and a video report, visit the National Association of Realtors®.
*The Pending Home Sales Index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. A sale is listed as pending when the contract has been signed but the transaction has not closed, though the sale usually is finalized within one or two months of signing.
Efficient Home Design from Best-Selling Author Sarah Susanka
Sarah Susanka, architect and best-selling author of the “Not So Big House” books, has just finished her newest example of building a right-sized home.
The home, in the School Street neighborhood of Libertyville, Ill., is 2,450 square feet on two floors and sits on a small and narrow lot, 29 feet wide by 100 feet long. The home’s interior spaces are lined up in a row; each has a west-facing window that lets in plenty of sunshine on cold winter days.
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The plans show how the home’s linear plan of one room deep spaces is positioned to gather as much light as possible. This approach allows some passive heating of the house during those cold Illinois winters, reduces the home’s carbon footprint, and saves on energy bills.
Click here for more images from the tour of Sarah Susanka’s newest right-sized house on Houzz.com.
Find Your Haven in this southside of Nashville Estate for Sale
Ironically, rural America has become viewed
by a growing number of Americans as having a higher quality of life
not because of what it has, but rather because of what it does not have!
~Don A. Dillman
The vista from the front porch of the 135 acre estate for sale in Normandy, Tennessee. Click on the photo for more images and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
What an absolutely perfect country estate. Beautiful woodwork gives a comfortable and relaxed feel to the 5 bedroom, 4 full bath, 2 half bath home in Normandy, TN. The first time you see this house it instantly brings a smile to your face.
Sitting atop rolling hills and surrounded by 135 acres, the traditional style home with an amazing porch. It is absolutely picturesque.
Exposed beams and wide-plank ash floors are just two examples of the architectural details found in this estate for sale in Normandy, Tennessee.
Inside is even more amazing with rustic ceiling beams and natural wood door frames adding architectural details. The floor plan is perfect for a large family or someone who likes to host guests. It is relaxing and flows easily from room-to-room.
The secret gem in the master suite is the stairs that lead down to a private room below the bedroom. Use this for an office, workout room or even dressing room. It is completely paneled and stunning.
All the bedrooms are large and most accommodate a sleeping and sitting area. The master suite is spectacular. A small sitting or office areas leads to double wood doors with a stained glass transom. The oversized room has a private bath with double shower, floating sinks and gorgeous tile. A great retreat for any owner.
An inspiring place to create meals or enjoy the company of others, the kitchen is open to a fireside keeping room. Click on the image for more photos and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
There is a family room and keeping room that flows into the cheery kitchen. Apple green cabinets immediately brighten the space and make it so much fun to be in this room! How can you not enjoy preparing a meal for everyone you love in a space like this? Top-of-the line appliances, plenty of cabinets, shelving and upper glass cabinets make it perfect for the foodie in us all.
The neat-nick's dream stable is ready for four-legged friends, and an apartment above allows privacy for long-term guests.
On the property there is also a stable with an apartment above it. It has a living room, sleeping area and full kitchen. You could rent it out, use it for guests or turn it into an entertaining area it is a great addition to the property.
Normandy is only minutes from Tullahoma and 45 from Nashville. The beautiful acreage and well-appointed home make it well worth the drive.
6 bedroom, 4 full bath and 2 half bath
Offered at $1,750,000.
561 CK Troxler
Normandy, TN 37360
Please click here to see more photos and information about this estate for sale on 135 acres near Tullahoma, Tennessee.
For more information, please contact
Lawrence Lipman, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
Lawrence Lipman
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s Realty
larry.lipman@sothebysrealty.com
615.463.3333
Selling Your Home During The Holidays
When you look at your holiday calendars you may find the months already overloaded with seasonal obligations — shopping, entertaining, children’s pageants, charity work, decorating the house, and so much more. If you are also trying to sell your home, you are under extra pressure to keep your home in “showtime” condition. And that could be the last thing you need before the holiday spirit is broken.
It is understandable why you would be tempted to take your home off the market during the holidays. Better to just pack it in and start fresh in January, right?
This renovated Elizabethan home is currently listed at $495,000. Click on the photo for more images and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
Not exactly. Top-selling REALTORS® say taking your home off the market during the Christmas season is a mistake. Jennie Ling, a vice president of Virginia Cook REALTORS® and the number one sales person in her company for almost every one of her more than 35 years in the real estate business, says ”The holidays are my best-selling period. Why? Because most people take off work sometime during the season. The husband and wife are both off and want to see houses. I showed homes on New Year’s Day last year. I like the holidays because the buyers have more time, and they can look at homes together.”
Before you take your home off the market, consider the following points:
- Although buyer activity may appear to slow down, the buyers who are actively looking during the holidays are that much more serious. Ling believes the home market is no more affected at Christmas than during other “busy” period. If that were so, the market would shut down throughout the year as families concentrate on spring weddings, June graduations, summer vacations, and autumn back-to-school activities.
- Many buyers deliberately choose to shop for a home after the busy spring and summer rush. They know that it will be easier to look, and that negotiations will be less stressful. They may not have children, or they may have grown children, so moving to accommodate the school year isn’t a consideration. Finding the right home at the right price, however, is.
- Relocating families often don’t have a choice in when they can leave for their new destination. Although 68 percent of transferring families have children, many families have to transfer during the middle of the school year. These families are that much more motivated to get their families settled in either before the January semester begins, or to arrange for the move during spring break in March. If you sign a contract by New Year’s Eve, the timing couldn’t be more perfect.
- At Christmastime, our culture focuses on family and the home. Preparing for the indoor activities of winter is one of the most enjoyable periods of family life. Allowing buyers to view your home during this most hospitable of seasons lets them better picture their own family life in the attractive environment you have created.
- With reduced inventories and motivated buyers, you will have all the members of the MLS on your team. You may find you have more showings than you would if you marketed your home during a busier time of the year.
- If you do get a contract, you can arrange the terms to suit your needs. If moving during the holidays isn’t an option, you can put in the closing date of your choice. “Most people can close 30 to 60 days after a contract is written, so there is plenty of time,” Ling says. “Possession and closings are are very negotiable.”
Click here for more points on selling your home during the holidays from RealtyTimes.
Condo for sale at the Terrazzo – Fall in Love
“The supreme reality of our time is…the vulnerability of our planet.” ~John F. Kennedy
The Gulch's most upscale address: The Terrazzo. Click here to find out more about this one bedroom, one bathroom condo for sale from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
Be a Part of the Green Neighborhood Movement
Modern design alongside environmentally friendly building and development will make you fall in love with this unit in The Terrazzo. The Terrazzo is a gorgeous building located in an acclaimed and award-winning downtown Nashville neighborhood, The Gulch. It is one of only 13 neighborhoods internationally with LEED neighborhood distinction, including the Olympic Village in Beijing.
The project began as a revitalization of an historic neighborhood through private and corporate partnerships. With a well-developed master plan, the neighborhood has new life and is a mixed-use community with homes and business in close proximity to one another.
The living room in the one bedroom home in The Gulch boasts gleaming hardwood floors. Click on the image for more photos and information.
Unit 608 in The Terrazzo is a sleek, modern design. The one bedroom, one bath unit, has hardwoods throughout and an open floor plan to make the best use of the space. Walls of windows and high ceilings allow the space to live large.
The kitchen and living room is separated by a bar with seating. Click on the image for more photos and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
The kitchen is sleek and clean, just like everything else in this condo for sale at The Terrazzo.
The kitchen cabinets are a custom Italian wood design in a rich graphite finish with stainless steel pulls to coordinate with the appliances. The countertops are solid surface and crisp white. Beautiful! The true eye-catcher though in the open space is the glass tile backsplash that mirrors the spectacular blue sky coming in from the wall of windows.
Simply stunning!
The bathroom is crisp and soothing at the same time. A huge soaking tub, a floating sink, and a large shower are features.
The bath has floating cabinets in a lighter stain and solid black vanity. There is a separate tub and shower and the frameless glass door showcase soothing dark tiles from the spacious shower.
Luxury abounds in the unit and on the property. There in an on-site fitness center and year round heated pool. Enjoy all this and then step out into one of the top neighborhoods in Nashville, knowing all the while that you are living in a neighborhood that is a leader in green living.
700 12th Avenue South, The Terrazzo
#608
Nashville, TN 37203
1 Bedroom, 1 Bath
Offered at $255,000
For more information about this condo for sale in The Gulch, please contact
Nichole Holmes, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
Nichole Holmes
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
nlholmes2003@yahoo.com
615.364.1856
Goodlettsville home for sale with many upgrades
The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home
in the bosom of my family. ~Thomas Jefferson
This lovely home in Goodlettsville is offered at $259,000 and is listed by The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty. Click on the image for more photos and information.
Finding a great home in a great neighborhood is something we all dream about. The home at 852 Loretta Drive in the Woodwyn Hills sub-division delivers on both points. Not only is the neighborhood well-established in the Goodlettsville community just outside of Nashville, but the home has an unbelievable amount of upgrades for the price!
From the driveway you will immediately notice the wraparound porch. What a wonderful place to enjoy your morning coffee or to sit and chat with neighbors on relaxing afternoon. Inside there are hardwoods and high ceilings with crown molding. The open family room and kitchen gives a nice flow to the floor plan. Stairs to the second level are off to the side between the two rooms.
The open kitchen is warm and perfect for enjoying company while preparing a meal. Click on the image for more photos and information.
The kitchen has stained cabinetry and a square center island with storage. The corner windows add a great deal of light to the space. There is a tile backsplash and black appliances. All the elements coordinate well and create a comfortable kitchen where you will enjoy cooking. There is a breakfast area and a formal dining room. Plenty of space for family and friends this holiday season.
The large master bedroom in this home for sale in Goodlettsville is quite large and features trey ceilings. Click on the image for more photos and information.
The three bedroom home has an expansive master suite with a sitting room. A trey ceiling above the sleeping area of the room is a nice touch. The bath has a separate tub and shower, as well as a water closet and split vanity.
The living room is a perfect example of natural light enhancing the neutral palette of this home for sale.
All colors throughout are neutral and will go with any décor. There is no need to paint or replace carpet or hardwoods unless you really want a change. Everything is in wonderful condition and ready for the next owner. The former owner was a builder and it is more than apparent!
Offered at $259,000
3 bedroom, 2 bath and 1 half bath
852 Loretta Drive
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
Kelli Corbin Hudson, The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty
For more information, please contact:
Kelli Corbin Hudson
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
kelli.hudson@sothebysrealty.com
615.830.7778
