Sunrise Homes & Renovations, Inc.

Interviewing Architect’s When Building A New Home

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How To Interview An Architect When Building A New HomeMaking the decision to build a home might be one of the biggest you make in your life. You’ve found the perfect plot of land and have a vision of what type of home you want, but you need someone to bring your dream to life.

That means it’s time to start interviewing architects. Hiring an architect isn’t as simple as just calling up a few and seeing who might have the time. You’ll want to ensure you choose a professional that understands your design aesthetic, communicates well, can design on budget, and has an upstanding reputation. Below are a few key questions to ask when deciding whom to hire.

Do You Have A Specific Design Style?

When interviewing architects, be sure to ask each one if they have a specific aesthetic and if you can see a portfolio of his or her work. While most are adaptable, they usually all have design themes that recur in their projects.

Whether you want a minimalist structure or LEED certified construction, you’ll want to know they have the experience.

What Is Your Fee?

You’ll need to inquire whether they charge a flat fee for their designs or a percentage of the total building cost. Most architects charge a percentage of the overall cost of your home, usually ranging from 5-20 percent.

This is important to know because it means that for every floorboard installed, you’ll need to add on the architect’s additional percentage.

Do You Provide Project Management Services?

There are many services that architects should include within their contract, such as checking the contractor’s work, making adjustments as the construction moves forward and obtaining lien waivers.

Get a list of what each architect you interview includes in his or her fee. Additional charges can add up and might play a part in who you choose.

Interviewing architects and finding the right professional can make all the difference when it comes to building exactly what you want. One you work well with can make the construction experience extremely pleasant, while a negative relationship can leave you hating your new home.

So do your research and be sure to get references.

How to Help Your Dog Adjust To A New Home

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How to Help Your Dog Adjust To A New HomeMoving to a new home can be a stressful time for both you and your dog. Dogs are creatures of habit, and a new environment can be overwhelming for them. However, with the right approach, you can help your dog adjust to their new home smoothly.

Let The Dog Get Familiar With The Moving Supplies

If you’re moving to a new home, your dog may be curious or nervous about the moving supplies and boxes around the house. To help your dog adjust to the upcoming move, it can be helpful to let them get familiar with moving supplies. Introduce the moving supplies gradually by introducing one or two boxes or pieces of packing material at a time. Allow your dog to sniff and investigate the items, but make sure to supervise them to ensure their safety.

Stick To A Regular Schedule

Sticking to a regular schedule can be very beneficial for both humans and dogs. For dogs, having a consistent daily routine can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve behavior, and promote overall wellbeing. Set a regular feeding schedule: Dogs thrive on routine and feeding them at the same time each day can help them feel more secure. Schedule daily walks or playtime sessions at the same time each day, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for your dog to run, play, and explore.

Here are some additional tips to help your dog adjust to a new home:

Create a safe space: Designate a specific area of the house where your dog can feel safe and comfortable. This can be a crate or a cozy bed in a quiet corner. Make sure to include familiar items like their favorite toys and bedding.

Provide lots of love and attention: During the adjustment period, your dog may be feeling anxious or stressed. Provide them with plenty of love and attention to help them feel more at ease.

Schedule regular potty breaks: Most dogs need to go potty every few hours, so it’s important to establish a regular potty schedule. Take your dog out first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime, and make sure to reward them for going outside.

Stick to a consistent bedtime: Dogs need plenty of rest, and a consistent bedtime routine can help them settle down for the night. Aim for a regular bedtime and stick to a consistent routine, such as taking your dog for a walk, providing a bedtime treat, and settling them into their crate or bed.

Stay patient and positive: Adjusting to a new home can take time, and every dog is different. Stay patient and positive and avoid punishing your dog for any accidents or unwanted behavior. Instead, reward positive behavior and reinforce good habits.

By following these tips, you can help your dog adjust to their new home and settle in comfortably. Remember to be patient and understanding, and your dog will soon feel right at home.

How To Beat High Inflation with a Home Purchase

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How To Beat High Inflation with a Home PurchaseInflation can erode the value of your savings over time, and one way to hedge against inflation is by investing in assets that appreciate in value over time. Real estate is often considered a good hedge against inflation, as property values tend to rise in line with inflation.

Here are some ways a home purchase can help beat high inflation:

Lock in a low-interest rate mortgage: High inflation often leads to higher interest rates, but if you lock in a low-interest rate mortgage when inflation is low, you can benefit from lower mortgage payments even if interest rates rise in the future. This can free up more money for other expenses and investments.

Appreciation: Real estate values tend to rise over time, especially in areas with high demand and limited supply. If you purchase a home in an area that is likely to appreciate, you can benefit from the increase in value over time.

Rental income: If you purchase a home as an investment property, you can generate rental income that increases with inflation. Rental income can provide a steady stream of passive income that can keep up with inflation.

Tax benefits: Homeowners can deduct mortgage interest and property taxes from their federal income taxes, which can help offset the costs of homeownership. These deductions can be especially valuable during times of high inflation when other deductions may lose value.

Diversification: Investing in real estate can diversify your investment portfolio, reducing the overall risk of inflation. Real estate has historically performed well during periods of inflation and can provide a valuable hedge against the erosion of purchasing power caused by inflation.

It’s important to note that buying a home should be a long-term investment strategy, and not a short-term solution to beat inflation. Real estate values can fluctuate over short periods of time, and it may take several years to recoup your investment. It’s also important to consider the costs of homeownership, such as maintenance, repairs, and property taxes, when evaluating the potential benefits of purchasing a home.

Maximizing Small Outdoor Spaces: Ideas for Balconies and Patios

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Maximizing Small Outdoor Spaces: Ideas for Balconies and PatiosLiving in an urban setting often means compromising on outdoor space. However, even the tiniest of balconies or patios can be transformed into inviting and functional outdoor retreats. With a bit of creativity and thoughtful planning, you can maximize your small outdoor space and create a beautiful oasis right outside your doorstep.

Choose the Right Furniture:

When it comes to small outdoor spaces, selecting the right furniture is crucial. Pieces that are compact, lightweight, and multi-functional. Along with folding chairs, stackable stools, and collapsible tables are excellent choices as they can be easily stored when not in use. Consider investing in furniture with built-in storage compartments, such as benches or ottomans, to maximize space efficiency.

Lighting Magic:

Proper lighting can transform any space, and small outdoor areas are no exception. Install outdoor lighting fixtures such as string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered LEDs to create a warm and inviting ambiance during the evenings.

Utilize Wall Space:

When every square inch counts, make the most of your vertical surfaces. Mount shelves, hooks, or wall organizers to hold small potted plants, lanterns, or decorative items. Wall-mounted foldable tables or bars can provide an additional surface for dining or working while saving valuable floor space

Cozy Seating Nooks:

Create cozy nooks or corners within your small outdoor space for intimate seating arrangements. Utilize corner spaces by adding small benches, cozy chairs, or hammocks.

Play with Colors and Patterns:

Incorporate vibrant colors and patterns to make your small outdoor space visually appealing. Choose colorful cushions, rugs, and accessories to inject personality into your balcony or patio. Stripes, geometric patterns, and bold prints can create an illusion of depth and add visual interest. Remember to balance colors and patterns with a cohesive theme to avoid overwhelming the space.

Maximizing small outdoor spaces is all about smart design choices and utilizing the available space effectively. By carefully selecting furniture, incorporating greenery, enhancing privacy, adding proper lighting, utilizing wall space, creating cozy seating nooks, and playing with colors and patterns, you can transform even the tiniest balcony or patio into a delightful outdoor retreat.

What to Look For During Your Home Inspection

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What To Look For During Your Home InspectionBuying a new home is an exciting and significant milestone in anyone’s life. However, it’s essential to approach the homebuying process with caution and thoroughness to ensure that you’re making a sound investment. One crucial step in the homebuying journey is the home inspection. A home inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a property’s condition, aiming to uncover any potential issues or concerns that could affect its value or safety. Below are some tips to remember when navigating a home inspection.

Roof and Exterior:

The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so it’s crucial to examine it closely. Look for missing or damaged shingles, signs of leakage, and the overall condition of the roof.

Structural Integrity:

A solid foundation and sound structure are vital for the long-term stability and safety of your home. Inspect the foundation for cracks, unevenness, or signs of settling. Look out for any sagging or uneven floors, as they could indicate structural issues.

Plumbing and Electrical Systems:

Faulty plumbing or electrical systems can lead to significant problems and costly repairs. Test the faucets, showers, and toilets to ensure proper water flow and drainage. Check for leaks under sinks and around toilets. In terms of electrical systems, inspect the circuit breaker panel and look for any exposed wiring, outdated systems, or potential fire hazards.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are critical for maintaining a comfortable living environment. Have the HVAC systems thoroughly inspected to determine their condition and efficiency.

Insulation and Energy Efficiency:

Good insulation and energy-efficient features can greatly impact your home’s comfort and utility costs. Check the insulation in the attic, walls, and crawl spaces to ensure they meet the recommended standards. Inquire about the home’s energy efficiency features, such as double-pane windows, energy-efficient appliances, or renewable energy installations.

Pest and Mold Inspection:

Pests and mold can pose health risks and cause extensive damage to a home. Look for signs of pests such as droppings, chewed wood, or insect nests. Ask the inspector about any past or present pest infestations and the steps taken to address them.

A home inspection is a crucial step in the homebuying process that helps you make an informed decision about your investment. By paying close attention to the areas mentioned above, you can identify potential issues and negotiate repairs or adjustments with the seller. A thorough home inspection can provide peace of mind and ensure that you’re buying a home that meets your expectations in terms of safety, functionality, and value.

Renovating a Bathroom: DIY vs Hiring a Professional

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Renovating a Bathroom: DIY vs Hiring a ProfessionalThe bathroom is one of the most important and frequently used spaces in a home. Over time, it may start to show signs of wear and tear or become outdated. If you’re considering renovating your bathroom, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to tackle the project yourself or hire a professional. Both options have their pros and cons, and it’s essential to weigh them carefully before deciding.

DIY Renovation:

One of the most significant advantages of a DIY bathroom renovation is the potential cost savings. By doing the work yourself, you eliminate the labor costs associated with hiring a professional. You have control over the materials and can find budget-friendly options to stay within your desired price range.

Taking on a DIY bathroom renovation also gives you complete control over the project. You can choose the design, materials, and timeline that suit your preferences and schedule. This level of flexibility allows you to customize your bathroom to your exact specifications.

Completing a DIY bathroom renovation can be a rewarding experience. Seeing the transformation unfold before your eyes and knowing that you accomplished it on your own can provide a great sense of pride and satisfaction. It can also be a learning opportunity, as you’ll gain new skills and knowledge throughout the process.

Hiring a Professional:

Professional bathroom renovators bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. They are well-versed in all aspects of bathroom renovations, from design to construction. Their expertise ensures that the project is executed efficiently and to a high standard, resulting in a beautiful and functional bathroom.

Hiring a professional allows you to save time and effort. They have a team of skilled workers who can complete the renovation quickly and efficiently. Professionals also have access to specialized tools and equipment that can streamline the process and deliver excellent results. Professional bathroom renovators take pride in their work and strive to deliver exceptional quality.

The decision between a DIY bathroom renovation and hiring a professional depends on your skills, budget, and personal preferences. DIY projects can be cost-effective and rewarding, but they require time, effort, and a certain level of expertise. Hiring a professional ensures expertise, efficiency, and high-quality results but comes with a higher cost and limited control. Whichever option you choose, thorough planning, research, and realistic expectations are essential for a successful bathroom renovation.