Living with our four legged children brings happiness and some unique challenges when it comes to the way our homes look and smell. With some upfront planning and smart choices, you can minimize the potential stress of keeping your home looking and smelling great.
Here are 5 secrets for interior design with pets in mind:
1.Skip the wall to wall carpeting-pet fur gets trapped and pet oils get embedded
2.Don't use flat finish paint-when your pets rub against the walls-the paint will come off with the dirt you are trying to clean off
3.Match the color of your upholstery and bedding to your pets fur color-yes, the fur will still be there, but it won't show as much 4.Buy attractive, patterned area rugs that are easy to clean-the pattern in the rug will hide the fur better. This isn't an excuse not to vacuum regularly, but it may reduce the frequency.
5.Most importantly, make sure your pets have places and spaces to hang out in. For example, give your kitty a good view of the outdoors in a sunny preferably high up spot. Make sure your dog has appropriate chew toys (all dogs need to chew) so your furniture legs aren't tempting.
Pawprint Design™ Case Study #1
S Interior Design was asked to complete a total makeover of a busy families’ living room and adjoining dining room. The makeover included replacing all of the 25 year old furnishings in the rooms. The homeowner was concerned that Hunter, their 8 year old Beagle would have a negative reaction to the fact that his favorite ‘nesting and resting’ place, an old barrel style chair, was going away. Recognizing that Hunter’s world is dominated by the sense of smell (dogs smell 20 times better than people), S Interior Design placed the seat cushion from the old chair in an out of the way corner in the family room. Hunter adjusted with ease since his favorite cushion wasn’t gone, but rather put in the room where his human pack members spend the majority of their waking hours. Over time, the cushion was replaced with a more aesthetically pleasing dog bed and fleece throw. We made sure that the family imprinted their scent on the fleece throw so Hunter would accept it. Happy Hunter, happy home!
Pawprint Design™ Case Study #2
S Interior Design was asked to assist in the remodel of a kitchen and adjoining family room. The family in this case includes two small dogs; Diego and Barry. In the old kitchen design, Diego and Barry’s food bowls were placed in a corner near the dining table and had the tendency to get knocked over when the chairs around the table were moved too quickly. Their dog food was stored in the kitchen under a small desk area in a functional but unattractive plastic container. To address these challenges, S Interior Design customized the toe kick (the area under the cabinetry) at the far end of the kitchen so it slides in and out and the dog bowls can be placed inside of it. When the bowls aren’t in use, they can slide in and out of site. A custom hinged bin cabinet that flows seamlessly with the rest of the cabinetry was included to store the dry dog food in. Diego and Barry also got new dog beds upholstered in high performing Cryptonite fabric that coordinates beautifully with the new window treatments and seat cushions.
About the author: Suzanne Lasky, Allied ASID is the owner of S Interior Design. S Interior Design makes homes harmonious, functional and beautiful for families with 2-legged and 4-legged members. Suzanne has an M.B.A. and an A.A.S. degree in Interior Design. Suzanne offers years of real world experience, giving her clients the peace of mind to know that their projects will be professionally handled from start to finish. She is an experienced residential and small commercial interior designer and is the exclusive provider of Pawprint Design Services™ ‘Stunning Interiors with Pets in Mind’.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Design Beautiful Windows
What are Windows?
Designed to allow light and air in through solid walls, windows are a staple of any basic architecture. Most homes and businesses have windows for both practical purposes of light, as well as for aesthetic value. Windows can be made from a variety of material, including glass, plexi-glass, plastics, and more.
How and Why Do Windows Allow Light In?
Daylight needs to be both allowed and controlled, and many windows are designed to allow for customization of the amount of light that goes through. Skylights and open windows allow for the radiance of the sun to get into the room, while sills and overhangs often prevent daylight from getting into the structure.
Commercial contractors often struggle with allowing ample daylight through the window. This is because many local and national governments have established minimum energy codes that contractors must meet. The preservation of energy is important to most established nations, and it is often much more difficult - and energy deficient - to maintain temperatures in rooms with large windows that allow a lot of light in.
How Do We Use Windows for Décor?
Whether or not most homeowners realize it, windows play a pivotal role in the overall décor and atmosphere of their home. Although even standard square windows can act as a design element, many windows are of a unique design and composition. When establishing the décor for a room, the room layout and the windows are a great place from which to start. Living room windows are often great décor elements if they are designed horizontally to allow ample light and to take up plenty of design space on an otherwise empty wall. In bedrooms, many people choose to place sitting areas and furniture near windows for reading, writing, and relaxing.
Why Did We Ever Start Designing Windows?
Warmth and safety were the two main reasons why windows were established on housing designs. Allowing the sun through the windows provided warmth in the home, while the window also provided a way to watch for potential attackers. Early on, windows were nothing more than holes cut out of the structure. Eventually, people began added an early shutter system that allowed the windows to be opened or closed to allow or prohibit light from getting in.
It was not uncommon to see paper windows in most lower class homes around the world until the dawn of the 17th century. Until that time, it was mostly nobility alone who had glass windows.
How are Windows Classified?
As previously mentioned, windows come in a variety of styles and designs. These include casement windows, which are cranked to open and close them. A user turns the crank to open the window, and turns it the other way back to close the window. Most casement windows also feature locks so that, once fully closed, the window can be secured against being opened from the outside. The hinges on these types of windows are designed to allow for easy operation of the crank handle.
Gliding windows are, as their name suggests, windows that glide along a horizontal system. The ease with which these open and close make them quite popular in residences. While gliding windows are popular for their functionality, other windows are popular for their design. These include bay windows, which feature angles at the wall and ceiling to provide an additional design element.
Other popular windows include sash windows, round top windows, polygon windows, and others.
What Color Are Windows?
Although most windows come in standard neutral colors like white and beige, more and more windows are featuring a wide spectrum of colors. These windows allow homeowners and business owners to design their rooms around the décor of the window. If, for instance, a bold room is desired, the window may be painted bright red or black. These allow the designer to then create the rest of the décor of the room around the color of the window. Whether you are seeking cool colors or hot passion in your décor, the windows that will complement your designs are available.
What Design Styles Are Available for Windows?
The style of the window largely depends on the architectural design of the structure. For instance, a modern, contemporary home or business would likely feature contemporary windows with straight lines, few or no panes, and clear class. Colonial homes, likewise, would feature many-paned sash windows. And grandiose homes might include windows with remarkable embellishments and lavish designs such as stained glass or unique shapes and colors.
Designed to allow light and air in through solid walls, windows are a staple of any basic architecture. Most homes and businesses have windows for both practical purposes of light, as well as for aesthetic value. Windows can be made from a variety of material, including glass, plexi-glass, plastics, and more.
How and Why Do Windows Allow Light In?
Daylight needs to be both allowed and controlled, and many windows are designed to allow for customization of the amount of light that goes through. Skylights and open windows allow for the radiance of the sun to get into the room, while sills and overhangs often prevent daylight from getting into the structure.
Commercial contractors often struggle with allowing ample daylight through the window. This is because many local and national governments have established minimum energy codes that contractors must meet. The preservation of energy is important to most established nations, and it is often much more difficult - and energy deficient - to maintain temperatures in rooms with large windows that allow a lot of light in.
How Do We Use Windows for Décor?
Whether or not most homeowners realize it, windows play a pivotal role in the overall décor and atmosphere of their home. Although even standard square windows can act as a design element, many windows are of a unique design and composition. When establishing the décor for a room, the room layout and the windows are a great place from which to start. Living room windows are often great décor elements if they are designed horizontally to allow ample light and to take up plenty of design space on an otherwise empty wall. In bedrooms, many people choose to place sitting areas and furniture near windows for reading, writing, and relaxing.
Why Did We Ever Start Designing Windows?
Warmth and safety were the two main reasons why windows were established on housing designs. Allowing the sun through the windows provided warmth in the home, while the window also provided a way to watch for potential attackers. Early on, windows were nothing more than holes cut out of the structure. Eventually, people began added an early shutter system that allowed the windows to be opened or closed to allow or prohibit light from getting in.
It was not uncommon to see paper windows in most lower class homes around the world until the dawn of the 17th century. Until that time, it was mostly nobility alone who had glass windows.
How are Windows Classified?
As previously mentioned, windows come in a variety of styles and designs. These include casement windows, which are cranked to open and close them. A user turns the crank to open the window, and turns it the other way back to close the window. Most casement windows also feature locks so that, once fully closed, the window can be secured against being opened from the outside. The hinges on these types of windows are designed to allow for easy operation of the crank handle.
Gliding windows are, as their name suggests, windows that glide along a horizontal system. The ease with which these open and close make them quite popular in residences. While gliding windows are popular for their functionality, other windows are popular for their design. These include bay windows, which feature angles at the wall and ceiling to provide an additional design element.
Other popular windows include sash windows, round top windows, polygon windows, and others.
What Color Are Windows?
Although most windows come in standard neutral colors like white and beige, more and more windows are featuring a wide spectrum of colors. These windows allow homeowners and business owners to design their rooms around the décor of the window. If, for instance, a bold room is desired, the window may be painted bright red or black. These allow the designer to then create the rest of the décor of the room around the color of the window. Whether you are seeking cool colors or hot passion in your décor, the windows that will complement your designs are available.
What Design Styles Are Available for Windows?
The style of the window largely depends on the architectural design of the structure. For instance, a modern, contemporary home or business would likely feature contemporary windows with straight lines, few or no panes, and clear class. Colonial homes, likewise, would feature many-paned sash windows. And grandiose homes might include windows with remarkable embellishments and lavish designs such as stained glass or unique shapes and colors.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Affordable housing in California
Finding affordable housing in California can be a nightmare. The only places where affordable housing California is guaranteed are places where no one wants to live. Even in the middle of the desert, California housing is less affordable than in many places. It is sad to say, but for a lot of the people who grow up in California, home ownership is a dream that will never come true. Affordable housing California is simply too rare of a find.
Of course, there is affordable housing help for some of the poorest of the poor, but it does not amount to all that much. On the contrary, living in the projects in California is no picnic. Unfortunately, this is some of the only affordable housing California has to offer. I grew up in the San Francisco bay, so I know what I am talking about. I looked far and wide for affordable housing in California, but it took me years to even be able to afford a down payment on a place of my own. When I finally did get the money together, it was for a house that was far from where I worked. That means that, for the rest of my life, I will have to spend 2 hours a day commuting to and from the office. California affordable housing is simply not worth this expensive waste of time and gas money!
Of course, if you are willing to make some sacrifices, there are some affordable housing California options available. A friend of mine wanted to live in a California beach house, and was willing to make this the center of his life. He found some of the the only affordable housing California can provide: he moved in with some roommates at the beach house.
This helped a little bit, but it did not really solve his problems. He has to live in a ramshackle, run-down place because there is no where else where he can find affordable housing California available. You should see his house. It really is a big mess. Not only are all of the walls sagging, but I think that there is a mold infestation in the ceiling. No one should have to live in a place like that just to be able to have affordable housing California. It really is not a safe or healthy place to be. He could do a lot better if he moved.
Of course, there is affordable housing help for some of the poorest of the poor, but it does not amount to all that much. On the contrary, living in the projects in California is no picnic. Unfortunately, this is some of the only affordable housing California has to offer. I grew up in the San Francisco bay, so I know what I am talking about. I looked far and wide for affordable housing in California, but it took me years to even be able to afford a down payment on a place of my own. When I finally did get the money together, it was for a house that was far from where I worked. That means that, for the rest of my life, I will have to spend 2 hours a day commuting to and from the office. California affordable housing is simply not worth this expensive waste of time and gas money!
Of course, if you are willing to make some sacrifices, there are some affordable housing California options available. A friend of mine wanted to live in a California beach house, and was willing to make this the center of his life. He found some of the the only affordable housing California can provide: he moved in with some roommates at the beach house.
This helped a little bit, but it did not really solve his problems. He has to live in a ramshackle, run-down place because there is no where else where he can find affordable housing California available. You should see his house. It really is a big mess. Not only are all of the walls sagging, but I think that there is a mold infestation in the ceiling. No one should have to live in a place like that just to be able to have affordable housing California. It really is not a safe or healthy place to be. He could do a lot better if he moved.
Affordable apartments
Everyone should have the luxury of their own abode, no matter how humble. Every now and then, we're presented with decisions that force us to move. New family situations, a new job, or perhaps just a better location. Maybe your rent suddenly went up, and you need to find a new place, fast. Luckily, affordable apartments are more plentiful than you might expect. You just need to know where to look.
You might want to move to New York City, Miami, or Hollywood, but think that doing so would be much too costly or just a crazy dream. The truth is, you can find affordable apartments in a good neighborhood in any major U.S. city. Don't expect to find a luxury apartment. However, you can expect reasonably nice apartments. The trade off is usually in space. You may find a terrific studio at a great price. The larger two bedroom affordable apartments may not be half so nice as the studio. If you have the flexibility or are looking for a transition to your new city, sublets can offer the advantages of affordable apartments and a smooth transition as you scope out your new territory.
Studio apartments are popular among artists today, offering affordability and enough work space. If you choose a studio in an artists' neighborhood, you're likely to have lots of interesting people as neighbors. Musicians and artists are often friendly and genial, enjoying talk and new like-minded friends.
For example, let's say you want to move to Hollywood and pursue your dreams. Look for a good West Hollywood district and search out the affordable apartments in the classifieds, or look online at craigslist.org. If you're diligent in your search, it won't be long before you find that perfect large studio for $700. Again,if you're new to the area, a sublet can offer the perfect transition.
As realtors are fond of saying, “location ...”. It's true. Look for the location that suits your taste. If you're looking for a retirement spot, look in the suburbs. If you're young and looking for excitement, get close to downtown, the hot spots and night life, museums and theatre. Finding affordable apartments in good neighborhoods is always possible. Simply adjust your square foot requirements as necessary.
In your search for affordable apartments, consider hotel apartments. In many large cities, renovated hotels turned into apartments is almost a cottage industry and especially popular with artists. That old hotel, catering to celebrities way back in the 1930's is an interesting choice in affordable apartments. The new owner converts the original hotel rooms into affordable apartments, small but beautiful, retaining the original architecture, furnishings and decor.
No matter where you're looking, keep location in mind. The landlord in a nice neighborhood is likely to take good care of his property. In any case, before signing the lease and plunking down your money,
talk to some of the area residents to determine the long term quality of your new affordable apartment!
You might want to move to New York City, Miami, or Hollywood, but think that doing so would be much too costly or just a crazy dream. The truth is, you can find affordable apartments in a good neighborhood in any major U.S. city. Don't expect to find a luxury apartment. However, you can expect reasonably nice apartments. The trade off is usually in space. You may find a terrific studio at a great price. The larger two bedroom affordable apartments may not be half so nice as the studio. If you have the flexibility or are looking for a transition to your new city, sublets can offer the advantages of affordable apartments and a smooth transition as you scope out your new territory.
Studio apartments are popular among artists today, offering affordability and enough work space. If you choose a studio in an artists' neighborhood, you're likely to have lots of interesting people as neighbors. Musicians and artists are often friendly and genial, enjoying talk and new like-minded friends.
For example, let's say you want to move to Hollywood and pursue your dreams. Look for a good West Hollywood district and search out the affordable apartments in the classifieds, or look online at craigslist.org. If you're diligent in your search, it won't be long before you find that perfect large studio for $700. Again,if you're new to the area, a sublet can offer the perfect transition.
As realtors are fond of saying, “location ...”. It's true. Look for the location that suits your taste. If you're looking for a retirement spot, look in the suburbs. If you're young and looking for excitement, get close to downtown, the hot spots and night life, museums and theatre. Finding affordable apartments in good neighborhoods is always possible. Simply adjust your square foot requirements as necessary.
In your search for affordable apartments, consider hotel apartments. In many large cities, renovated hotels turned into apartments is almost a cottage industry and especially popular with artists. That old hotel, catering to celebrities way back in the 1930's is an interesting choice in affordable apartments. The new owner converts the original hotel rooms into affordable apartments, small but beautiful, retaining the original architecture, furnishings and decor.
No matter where you're looking, keep location in mind. The landlord in a nice neighborhood is likely to take good care of his property. In any case, before signing the lease and plunking down your money,
talk to some of the area residents to determine the long term quality of your new affordable apartment!
Monday, March 17, 2008
Making Dream Homes Reality In Sardinia
Approximately 18 months ago my girlfriend and I decided we'd had enough of the UK and couldn't face growing old in a country over-run by unruly teenagers that terrorised the country; the police show no signs of sorting out the nuisance teenagers so we made the decision to build a home for ourselves and our children in Sardinia.
My girlfriend's family originate from Alghero in Sardinia and we spend most of our holidays on the beaches in and around Alghero.
Sardinia is a beautiful country, rugged and wild in places, inhabited by hospitable people, a great education system, touched by tourism but not over run but mainly it's a friendly place to be, where you all seem to be greeted with a warm smile and a friendly Ciao. The first decision we had to make was where to buy our land and build our dream home, in Alghero or further a field.
This proved to be easier said than done.
By chance we stumbled over an English gentleman who had lived in Alghero, Sardinia for the past 3 years and he was willing to help us get the ball rolling.
The Sardinians are wonderful people but there idea of where to live is completely opposite to that of the English, we want to live in the countryside with wide open fields and a wonderful view, the Sardinians cannot understand why anyone would want to live away from the hustle and bustle of the big city!
The building laws had recently changed in Sardinia, for the better some would say. To ensure that the building boom that is engulfing much of Europe didn't eat in Sardinia's beautiful countryside a law was passed that meant you could only build on land of one hectare or over, and this land had to approved to build on by May 2006. Following this, any building work had to be at least started by May 2007 or the application was null and void.
We started looking for land in August 2006 and despite many false dawns it took us until April 2006 to find the ideal plot, near a the small village of Olmedo approximately 12km from Alghero and 15km from our favourite beach.
The price was agreed and the legal paperwork was signed just in time to meet the government deadline. We were on our way.
We gathered together as many quotes for the build as we possibly could and in the end we chose a builder who wasn't the cheapest nor most expensive but he came highly recommended.
A huge hole was dug for the foundations and the first floor. In Sardinia and Italy it's usual to have the bedrooms in the basement as it's the coolest part of the house.
The next thing we had to arrange was the supply of water to the house. For this we had to take a trek to the local water authority and fill in a ream of paper-work explaining exactly what we would be using the water for. Every-thing you've ever heard about Italian bureaucracy being a long winded nightmare is also true about Sardinia.
After 35 minutes of speaking to the Sardinian water man he said he'd think about our application but that they'd already given too much water away that year and so it would probably be next year, we're still waiting to hear! And so to building work started without a water supply, luckily the builder had a couple more jobs to finish so the water issue wasn't critical.
So far we've had an access road built and the foundations dug, not bad for 18 months work! We're not bothered that the process is slow going; it gives us time to plan out our future properly. Don't for one minute think this is a negative piece; on the contrary it couldn't be more positive. It's more about the way the Italians do things, at their pace, which is what we want to buy into. It would be totally hypocritical of us to say we want to move to Sardinia for the slower pace of life only to expect our builder to complete our house in record time.
As I write the builder is just about to start work in earnest, watch this space for more developments.
My girlfriend's family originate from Alghero in Sardinia and we spend most of our holidays on the beaches in and around Alghero.
Sardinia is a beautiful country, rugged and wild in places, inhabited by hospitable people, a great education system, touched by tourism but not over run but mainly it's a friendly place to be, where you all seem to be greeted with a warm smile and a friendly Ciao. The first decision we had to make was where to buy our land and build our dream home, in Alghero or further a field.
This proved to be easier said than done.
By chance we stumbled over an English gentleman who had lived in Alghero, Sardinia for the past 3 years and he was willing to help us get the ball rolling.
The Sardinians are wonderful people but there idea of where to live is completely opposite to that of the English, we want to live in the countryside with wide open fields and a wonderful view, the Sardinians cannot understand why anyone would want to live away from the hustle and bustle of the big city!
The building laws had recently changed in Sardinia, for the better some would say. To ensure that the building boom that is engulfing much of Europe didn't eat in Sardinia's beautiful countryside a law was passed that meant you could only build on land of one hectare or over, and this land had to approved to build on by May 2006. Following this, any building work had to be at least started by May 2007 or the application was null and void.
We started looking for land in August 2006 and despite many false dawns it took us until April 2006 to find the ideal plot, near a the small village of Olmedo approximately 12km from Alghero and 15km from our favourite beach.
The price was agreed and the legal paperwork was signed just in time to meet the government deadline. We were on our way.
We gathered together as many quotes for the build as we possibly could and in the end we chose a builder who wasn't the cheapest nor most expensive but he came highly recommended.
A huge hole was dug for the foundations and the first floor. In Sardinia and Italy it's usual to have the bedrooms in the basement as it's the coolest part of the house.
The next thing we had to arrange was the supply of water to the house. For this we had to take a trek to the local water authority and fill in a ream of paper-work explaining exactly what we would be using the water for. Every-thing you've ever heard about Italian bureaucracy being a long winded nightmare is also true about Sardinia.
After 35 minutes of speaking to the Sardinian water man he said he'd think about our application but that they'd already given too much water away that year and so it would probably be next year, we're still waiting to hear! And so to building work started without a water supply, luckily the builder had a couple more jobs to finish so the water issue wasn't critical.
So far we've had an access road built and the foundations dug, not bad for 18 months work! We're not bothered that the process is slow going; it gives us time to plan out our future properly. Don't for one minute think this is a negative piece; on the contrary it couldn't be more positive. It's more about the way the Italians do things, at their pace, which is what we want to buy into. It would be totally hypocritical of us to say we want to move to Sardinia for the slower pace of life only to expect our builder to complete our house in record time.
As I write the builder is just about to start work in earnest, watch this space for more developments.
Factors Required To Build Dream Home
So you want to build a new home! You can join the multitudes of those that already have built their dream house and now enjoy living in it. Your dream is not beyond reach. Here are 5 steps that now stand between you and a completed dream house for you and your family. Follow them and you will be able to see your dream home become a reality.
1. Plan how much money you are going to need for the project.
First, you need to set a budget and then stick with it if at all possible. You do not want too many surprising costs, so this is very important. You may want to include some kind of cost guarantees in your contract.
2. Find the property where you are going to build your dream house.
This will give you a piece of real estate to put your dream house on. A lender will also require it before you get any money for a construction loan. Find out if you can get a guarantee from the lender to have your construction loan converted to a mortgage later. This could save you a lot of money in closing costs later on.
3. Get a set of house plans drawn.
Sit down and sketch an idea of what the house plan is going to look like. Also write down some features you want to go into your dream house. Here is where you have a choice. You can either contact an architectural drafter, a home designer, or, you can even learn to draw your own house plans, which is by far the least expensive way to go.
4. Put your floor plans out for bids.
Once your house plans are completed, place an ad in a local newspaper or call different builders in your area to get a copy of your blueprints so that they can place bids on your new home. You will want to get at least three bids before you choose one, and be sure to check on the reputation of the builder, too, before you sign any agreements.
5. Get everything put in a contract.
If you make changes during construction, which is common, make sure there is one set of plans that is to be used as the master plan and that both you and the builder should note and initial each and every one of those changes. That way, at the end of the job, there should not be any surprises or hidden costs.
These 5 steps will definitely help you to get started in the right direction on getting your new dream home built. Take your time and do it right, and your custom dream home will give you joy for many years to come.
1. Plan how much money you are going to need for the project.
First, you need to set a budget and then stick with it if at all possible. You do not want too many surprising costs, so this is very important. You may want to include some kind of cost guarantees in your contract.
2. Find the property where you are going to build your dream house.
This will give you a piece of real estate to put your dream house on. A lender will also require it before you get any money for a construction loan. Find out if you can get a guarantee from the lender to have your construction loan converted to a mortgage later. This could save you a lot of money in closing costs later on.
3. Get a set of house plans drawn.
Sit down and sketch an idea of what the house plan is going to look like. Also write down some features you want to go into your dream house. Here is where you have a choice. You can either contact an architectural drafter, a home designer, or, you can even learn to draw your own house plans, which is by far the least expensive way to go.
4. Put your floor plans out for bids.
Once your house plans are completed, place an ad in a local newspaper or call different builders in your area to get a copy of your blueprints so that they can place bids on your new home. You will want to get at least three bids before you choose one, and be sure to check on the reputation of the builder, too, before you sign any agreements.
5. Get everything put in a contract.
If you make changes during construction, which is common, make sure there is one set of plans that is to be used as the master plan and that both you and the builder should note and initial each and every one of those changes. That way, at the end of the job, there should not be any surprises or hidden costs.
These 5 steps will definitely help you to get started in the right direction on getting your new dream home built. Take your time and do it right, and your custom dream home will give you joy for many years to come.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Defining The Dream Home And Remodelling
Can you guess how far it is between these two points? A: The starry-eyed dream of building your own home. B: The passionate and committed decision to build the home of your dreams!
Actually, only you can answer that question accurately ... as it relates to you! Personally, I've noticed that for so many people, the distance is staggering. And the gap is often a deep chasm that results from the dread of the unknown.
You see, the dream of home building, or even remodeling, is often followed by that nasty little devil of fear. So what happens? RETREAT! Yes, we retreat back to our comfort zone, put that dream away for a while and breathe a sigh of relief that we won't have to face THAT devil again for a while!
But, what happens when you dare to face your fears and make a decision? What happens when you actually take the dream and give it life by adding action and the "real time" details that bring building or remodeling your own home into focus? Details like who, what, when, where, why and how?
THE PERFECT HOUSE PLAN
It wasn't long ago that I was displaying house plans and building materials at a Home Show and watched as some folks were eying the home designs on the table. They seemed intent on them and I sensed they wanted to talk to me. I asked them, "Are you planning to build a home?" Their answer was to laugh nervously.
"We have our building lot and as soon as we find the right home plan, we'll build" they answered with another laugh. Now, as this didn't seem that funny on the surface, I knew there was something behind the laughter. As it turned out, they'd been looking for that "perfect house plan" for six long years! Needless to say, they had not made a strong decision to build.
CLEAR DECISIONS BREAK DOWN BARRIERS
To make a long story short, I was able to help these folks decide upon a house plan. This didn't happen because I knew just what would be good for them. It only happened as I helped them gain the clarity they needed through a series of questions and answers about what they really wanted and why they were stuck in neutral.
Could you gain some clarity? What's holding you back? Are you looking to break those barriers that have kept you from moving forward with your home building dream? See if you can relate to one or more of the following limiting mindsets ... maybe one of them will get you closer to that empowering decision so your path can be cleared.
- The home building dream is only a wish until you make it specific and measurable: What specifics are missing in your wish list?
- Wanting to build but having no idea what that new home will really look like does not make for a good aiming point: When will you create that one vision that turns your fuzzy homebuilding picture into a sharp vision?
- Simply thinking that you want to build a home, but having no idea what the cost of building is, means you're happy enough with the warm, fuzzy feeling of "some day maybe:" Who will you contact to determine building costs of your area?
- Looking at house plan after house plan without narrowing down the features and benefits that really work for you: Why do you choose to remain so general and what are you fearful of?
THE POWER OF DECIDING TO BUILD YOUR OWN HOME
Nothing happens until you make a decision! The powerful action of deciding exactly what you want is the catalyst needed to make a whole series of decisions. Dozens of decisions come together once you gain focus.
So, what will you do today or tomorrow to bring you closer to a decision about what you want in a home?
Will you identify the one single scariest feeling you have now and resolve to find an answer?
Will you find one single decision that you can definitely make and follow through on? Progress is made by taking one step at a time.
Define your home dream first. It's empowering!
Need Of Finance For Your Dream Home
It might just be a lot easier than you think to get the money you need to finance your home-building dream. In this article, I identify seven financing strategies, and I know that at least one can work for you.
Don't let that dream die! Building your own home is one of the most exciting, and noble endeavors anyone could ever attempt. I want to encourage you to explore all the ways that you can make this happen for you. The money necessary to take you from dreaming and scheming to planning and doing is waiting for you.
Which approach is right for you?
1) Your local banker:
Your local banker is there to make money. He makes money by making loans. He sees a brand new home as a great investment for you, and for him. Yet, this won't work in every case. Here's what you need to ask:
Find out if he makes construction loans to owner builders. Ask him how much down payment is required and if you need to own the building parcel free and clear of any loans. Be sure to also ask him if a General Contractor is required.
2) A mortgage broker:
This can be a great option. A few of them will specialize in construction loans. A mortgage broker usually has more options available than a bank and you can learn a lot from a good broker. Be sure to ask her the same questions you would ask your banker.
She can arrange for the money for you from "institutional" sources (like bankers do) or she can find private lenders. Private lenders will usually cost you a little bit more but it is often well worth it. You should definitely consider this option and compare.
3) Rich Uncle:
I'm never surprised to find this option working for some people. No, it doesn't have to be Uncle Bob, it can be any family member or friend. Be sure to keep it a business transaction. And it needs to be profitable for the "investor".
You'll usually save money on fees when you borrow this way but don't expect it to be free. You'll want to make it official. Using a real estate attorney would be a good way to draw up the papers correctly. Done right, it's a great deal for you and a great investment for him or her!
4) Home equity line of credit on your current home:
You'll have to check the laws of your local area but this works very well for many people. Your existing home will usually have to be free and clear to have enough value to fund a construction project or you'll likely have to add cash yourself.
This type of loan is probably the least expensive to set up and the easiest to access during construction. If you're in the position to do it this way, it is probably the way to go. Again, check the laws, then check with your banker to set it up.
5) Borrowing against your investment portfolio:
You'll need a substantial investment fund to pull this off. But, if you have it, it usually makes sense to borrow against it rather than sell it to fund your home building. This way you'll keep your growing assets in tact and add another!
Naturally, you'll want to get expert advice first. You don't want to borrow against investments that are losing value. (Why would you even want to keep these?) With this option, the fees are low and the loan can be paid off at the completion of your home with a regular mortgage.
6) The Pay-as-you-go construction "loan":
Right, this is not a loan! But it is a way of funding your project. I'm not in favor of it though. However, if you want to do this, don't neglect setting out a very clear plan for the money and the time it will take. If you can't finish in two years, (3 maximum) I wouldn't do it, period.
7) Packaged, panelized, kit homes with financing:
This might just be your best option but you'll have to do a lot of research on this one. There are kit home/panelized home packages all over. Some are good and some not-so-good. Most offer financing options with the purchase of your home package. Please see other articles and e-books on this topic.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)