October 2014
Published by Port Jackson Media
Montgomery County
FREE
Fulton County
2
Real Estate Express
October 2014
Three tips for converting an
Attic
into
living space
(BPT) — Moving up – vacating your current, smallish home for a larger, roomier abode – was the
American way before the Great Recession. Now that
the economy is humming again, at least some of the
people who stayed put during those lean years will be
looking to move into larger, nicer homes this summer.
High demand and low inventory, however, may leave
many with nowhere to go. Some will rediscover a timehonored space-gaining technique: attic conversion.
As home improvements go, converting an attic into
usable living space has a high return on investment –
about 84 percent at the time of resale, according to
Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report. That’s if
you use your unfinished attic to create a 15-by-15-foot
bedroom and a modest 5-by-7-foot bathroom with shower.
Create a larger, more luxurious and more elaborate space
and the ROI could be even greater. If your family is bursting at the seams, the value of added space will be measured in comfort, convenience and peace of mind, rather
than resale dollars.
As with any renovation project, achieving an attic conversion requires you to balance numerous factors, from
budget and objective to space and architectural limitations. Some of your most-desired features – such as ample
natural light or a full bathroom – may seem out of reach.
They don’t have to be, though, if you rely on some timetested techniques to maximize the space.
Lighting the natural way
Typically, attics aren’t built with a lot of windows, and
adding them may be difficult if the ceiling is sloped. Yet
natural light is a highly prized feature in virtually any
room, especially if you’re converting your attic into a bedroom, family room or other public area. Traditional solutions include adding dormers, which can be costly and
time-consuming. What’s more, windows and dormers can
eat up wall space, which is often at a premium in attics.
Skylights or roof windows can be a better option in an
attic space. They require less time and cost to install than
dormers and can easily live on slanted ceilings. Choose
Skylights with decor-enhancing designer blinds
bring much more natural light and fresh air to
an attic conversion, at less expense and with
more style, than traditional dormers or windows. Solar powered fresh air skylights and
blinds, along with installation costs, are eligible
for a 30 percent federal tax credit.
Energy Star-qualified no-leak, solar-powered fresh-air skylights like those from VELUX America utilized in the
O’More College of Design Alumni House, add solar-powered blinds, and you can achieve a light-filled attic room
that is both beautiful and energy efficient. The cost of the
products, including installation, are eligible for a 30-percent federal tax credit. And from now until August 15,
there’s also a $200 cash rebate from VELUX on solar powered skylights. To learn more, visit www.whyskylights.com.
Roof windows, which are less expensive than dormers,
are another cost-effective attic conversion option. VELUX
offers both a top-hinged model and a double-sash balcony
model that open at the top and bottom to create a roof
balcony that admits much more light than a dormer while
offering access to the outdoors. Roof windows offer maximum ventilation plus the added advantage of meeting
building code requirements as points of emergency escape
and egress.
Heating and cooling
Attics are often the hottest or coldest room in the
house, depending on the time of year and the quality of
your home’s insulation. Creating a comfortable atmosphere in a converted attic requires expert planning.
You may need to increase insulation. Because insulation
has such a significant impact on a home’s overall comfort
and energy efficiency, it makes sense to invest in the best
you can afford. Spray foam is often a good option for converted attics because it can go easily between existing joists
October 2014
3
Real Estate Express
and create a tight air barrier without losing the inches
of space required for thick fiberglass batt insulation.
You’ll also need to consider how you will heat and
cool the space. A heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system expert can help you determine the best
approach.
Skylights and roof windows can also play an important role in your heating and cooling conversion plan
due to the chimney effect they utilize to exhaust rising
hot air from an attic space while providing abundant
daylight and fresh air.
Plumbing made easier
Adding a bathroom anywhere in a home is usually a
good investment. Bathroom additions return about 60
percent of your investment at the time of resale, according to the Cost vs. Value Report. Creating an attic bathroom can be simple – if pipes are already present – or
challenging if no plumbing exists in the space.
One alternative to traditional plumbing is up-flush,
which allows you to install sinks, toilets, showers and
even bath tubs without engaging in major construction
to accommodate traditional plumbing pipes. Up-flush
plumbing cost less than traditional plumbing methods
and is easier to fit into tight spaces – like the odd
nooks that often occur in attics.
With planning and the right materials, it’s possible
to convert an attic into a living space that makes your
home even more livable for your family while you’re
staying in place. Plus, it will enhance your home’s
value down the road when you’re ready to move up.
Balcony roof windows are less expensive than
dormers and offer access to the outdoors while
admitting abundant natural light and fresh air.
They meet building code requirements as points
of emergency egress while bringing functionality
and decorating flair to an attic space.
J . PA U L K O L O D Z I E J
Attorney & Counsellor at Law
PLLC
“LET US BE YOUR GUIDE”
ALL REAL ESTATE MATTERS
BUSINESS LAW
WILLS & ESTATES
LANDLORD REPRESENTATION
350 North Main Street
Gloversville, NY 12078
Phone 518 725-8922
Fax 518 725-1727
[email protected]
www.jpklaws.com
4
October 2014
Real Estate Express
VASSIREALESTATE.COM
Check our new website for virtual tours
Realty
160 Market St., Amsterdam, NY 12010 • 843-1885
BROKER: BOB VASSI 518-441-7599
Sales Agents: Wes Moller 928-0211 • Fred Traver 848-8125 • Dominick Megna 577-2537 • Ken Engle 321-9894
Berni Chatterton 705-2724 • Marie Engle 321-9895 • Rosemary Cinquanti 229-5846 • Juanita Wojnar 843-0400
Price R
educed
153 Steadwell Rd.,
Amsterdam
Exceptional custom built home on 1.6 acres in the
Broadalbin Perth SD. This classic colonial home
features 3+ BR and 3.5 BA, finished basement,
beautiful HW floors, custom built cabinets, and custom
mouldings throughout. Big kitchen w/new SS
appliances and SS washer/dryer, wet bar area,
breakfast room, formal DR and a large LR w/nice
wood burning FP. FR, cozy den and bonus room above
the attached 2 car garage. Big private back yard
boasts a Gunite pool, apple & pear trees, a patio &
deck and a custom awning..................$309,900
New Li
sting
Sale P
ending
Too New for Photo!
40 Wilkes Ave., Amst.
189 Steadwell Ave., Amst.
This home shows great character with a little TLC.
A 2,100 sq. ft. layout featuring EIK, large LR,
formal DR, FR with FP and a laundry room on
first floor. 2nd floor has HW floors in 4 good size
BR with master bath in master BR. Property on
1.96 acres for great family gatherings. Home has
in ground pool which is in need of repairs.
Property is subject to short sale and bank
approval........................................$134,500
Sale P
ending
Price C
hange
257 Clizbe Ave., Amsterdam
With a little TLC, this could be a nice starter
home. Back yard is private and faces Shuttleworth
Park. Interior features EIK, large LR and master
BR on the first floor. Connected to back of
property is a small apartment which needs TLC.
Home comes with added 95’x110’ lot SBL# 40.52-11................................................$52,500
Sale P
ending
798 Langley Rd., Amsterdam
45 Lincoln Ave., Amsterdam
Fully rented four family with many upgrades, newer
hot water heaters, new front stairs, new side
entranceway, new chimney, repaired roof, remodeled
downstairs rear bathroom, revamped with laundry
room. Very clean and well maintained. . . .$89,500
Sale P
ending
15 Lincoln Ave., Amsterdam
Great home in a quiet area, each flat has 3 BR,
formal room and an EIK. Two car garage, large
front porch and carpeting over HW. Full attic and
basement. A must see property..........$76,000
Beautiful 3 BR home that could easily be converted to a 4 BR,
located on a quiet st., just minutes from Amsterdam and 15
minutes from Schenectady. Over 400’ of road frontage on 2.70
acres with beautiful fruit trees. New windows, new kitchen with
granite counters, new roof, HW floors, formal DR, LR with field
stone FP, FR with wood stove. Large front porch for enjoying
that morning coffee. A must see property......$179,500
Price C
hange
13 Essex St., Amsterdam
111 Church St., Hagaman
A truly custom built home in a prime location. Many quality construction
features, such as double layer of PPG insulation, Tyvek lined basement,
fully insulated garage and exterior doors. Interior features EIK with plenty
of wood cabinets, separate laundry next to kit., external 3 sided
sunroom which leads into an outdoor deck, formal DR, large LR with gas
insert FP, 2 full BA with ceramic tile, 3 good size BR and a multi
purpose media room................................$210,000
12 Grant Ave., Amsterdam
Great 4 BR on a quiet street, large EIK, HW
floors, large LR. Attic semi-furnished. Nice deck
off the back, large front porch, plenty of room for
a growing family. Priced to move........$79,000
Price R
educed
Price C
hange
!
318 East Main St., Amst.
Great home for owner occupied or as an
investment property. Home is in good shape and
has been owner occupied for over 35 years. There
are 3 apartments: the first and 2nd apartment
are on the 1st floor, the 2nd apartment is on the
2nd floor. 1st apt. has 2 BRs, 2nd has 1 BR, 3rd
has 3 BRs. Priced to move.................$45,000
Price R
educed
!
110 Chapel Place, Amsterdam
Walk to the golf course from this charming 2 story home.
This property comes with an extra 50’x100’ lot. Newer
roof, replacement windows, large detached 2 car garage
and nice private yard for entertaining. Interior features cozy
FR, LR, formal DR, EIK, full bath, and a separate washer/
dryer room. 2nd floor has full bath, 3 BR and computer
room. 3rd floor can be used as 4th BR. Home is easy
commute to Rt. 30 shopping....................$85,500
100-102 Grand St., Amsterdam
Great investment property on corner lot.
Multifamily has 3 year old roof, windows,
plumbing, electrical, vinyl siding, furnaces and
water tanks. Each unit are on separate meters.
Property has many possibilities. Potential annual
income $26,000...............................$62,500
Price R
educed
!
1642 St. Rt. 107, Amsterdam
3 BR, 1 BA house boasts a new roof, septic
recently pumped, newer doors and windows, new
hot water tank, water filter system, hardwoods just
sanded and refinished. French door, walkout
basement, country kitchen, deck, porch, shed,
landscaped 100’x330’ lot, 1 car attached garage,
rec room in basement......................$130,000
Beautiful 3 BR home with beautiful old woodwork
and trim. 2 full BA, one on each floor. Formal DR,
enclosed front porch, new electrical, plumbing,
floors in upstairs BA, front porch is heated. New
roof on kitchen, downstairs BA is all new, new
outside deck and deck roof, new low E replacement
windows in house. Ceramic tile, French door, builtin cabinets, wood floors......................$69,900
177 Manny Corners Rd., Amst.
Nice 3 bedroom cape on a beautiful large lot,
hardwood floors, sun room, one car garage
attached to the home, plus a one car garage that
is next to the property. Eat-in kitchen, full
basement.......................................$114,900
Price C
hange
1361 Midline Rd., Amsterdam
Cozy cape with 3 BR and 2 full baths, renovated 2 full
baths, renovated 2nd floor, HW floors and ceramic tile
in kitchen, replacement windows, 4 year old roof, and a
newly stained deck. Back yard is fenced, new natural
gas furnace, low taxes........................$129,900
62 Center St., Amsterdam
Priced to Sell! Great income potential with a
great location. The house is located near
several restaurants, the Erie Canal bike path,
and parks........................................$42,000
Sold
2 Cochrane Ave., Amsterdam
Well-maintained, 2 family home in a nice location
on a quiet street. Home features 2 car garage, EIK,
LR, and dining area with wall-to-wall carpeting over
HW floors. Downstairs unit has washer and dryer
on first floor along with central air. Each unit has
porches both up and downstairs for relaxation. Roof
only 5 years old. An extra 45’x120’ lot
accompanies this property..................$72,500
4 Rochester St., Fort Johnson
Beautiful 3 bedroom home on a quiet street, eat-in
kitchen with ceramic tile floor, formal dining room,
family room with a wood fire place, 1 1/2 baths,
home will have a new roof before closing. Large wrap
around deck, perfect for that morning cup of coffee,
second deck off the second floor, patio, large above
ground swimming pool, central air, low taxes. This
home will not last long......................$130,000
BUYING? SELLING? Our trusted team of Real Estate Professionals offer you personalized service and the ability to produce
the results you want and deserve. Visit our new website for State-of-the-Art Virtual Tours at VASSIREALESTATE.COM
October 2014
5
Real Estate Express
VASSIREALESTATE.COM
Check our new website for virtual tours
Realty
160 Market St., Amsterdam, NY 12010 • 843-1885
BROKER: BOB VASSI 518-441-7599
Sales Agents: Wes Moller 928-0211 • Fred Traver 848-8125 • Dominick Megna 577-2537 • Ken Engle 321-9894
Berni Chatterton 705-2724 • Marie Engle 321-9895 • Rosemary Cinquanti 229-5846 • Juanita Wojnar 843-0400
Sale P
ending
172 Simpson Road,
Northville
Charming farm house nestled in the foothills of
the Adirondacks, on a dead end road just outside
the village of Northville. This 3 BR, 1.5 BA home
features post & beam construction with updated
addition, 3 FP, inground pool, pond, and income
producing 2 family home with a 3 bay garage
underneath, on 9+ acres...............$389,000
110 Saratoga Ave., Tn. of Amst.
Large 2 story, 4 BR 2.5 bath colonial in the
Town of Amsterdam w/an attached “in law”
304 Division St., Amsterdam apartment that features an open concept floor
2 family house with 2 BR, 1 BA each flat. Good plan with a LR, DR, kitchen and 2 BRs and 1 BA.
investment property for the right price. Both Plenty of parking, 2 car garage all on 1 acre.
apartments rented............................$52,500 Too many amenities to mention.. . . . .$224,900
Sold
9-11-13 High St., Amsterdam
5 family home ready to be made into 6. All
appliances stay, plenty of off street parking,
updated electric, and best of all $30,000/year
income! Long term tenants. Must see to fully
appreciate.....................................$149,000
37 Coolidge Rd., Amsterdam
Cozy ranch in a prime location on a 90’x200’ lot close
to schools, Rt. 30 shopping and municipal golf course.
HW floors, lg. LR, dining area, 3 BR and 2 full baths
with washer/dryer on 1st fl. Basement is partially
finished with gas FP and workshop. Exterior has vinyl
siding and attached 1 car garage.........$129,900
238 Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam
Solid 3 family brick home with off street parking
and 2 car garage. 1-3 BR. Monthly income of
170 Nadler, Town of Perth
$1,525, or $18,300/year. Updated electric, gas
furnace down and electric heat for both 2nd floor Cleared 1 acre surrounded by woods. Country
units. Stoves & refrigerators stay........$69,500 setting. Close to Hagaman..................$20,000
Price R
educed!
21 Carmichael St., Amsterdam
Well built 2 family house in a good location.
Exterior features vinyl siding, replacement
windows, and 6 yr. old roof. Laundry room on
each floor apartment. 3 BR, 1 BA each. Good
investment property..........................$65,500
Price C
hange
1231 Co. Hwy. 126, Amsterdam
A ready-to-move-in 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath
townhouse that is located in a park-like setting. It
1.4 acres on a cul-de-sac road of newer homes. has an eat-in kitchen and a cozy family room with
Shed and plenty of road frontage. Broadalbin- a wood burning fireplace. There is a 2 car garage
Perth School District.........................$19,500 and a huge 12’x20’ shed..................$89,000
0 Royal Coachman Dr., Amst.
Price R
educed
!
Price C
hange
301 State Hwy. 161,
Town of Florida
A beautiful piece of property, located on the corner
of Route 161 and Fort Hunter Road. 22 acres to
build your dream home on!.................$44,000
Price Re
duced!
21 Evelyn Ave., Amsterdam
81 Ft. Johnson Ave., Ft. Johnson
McMillan Rd, Duanesburg
An excellent 182.5 acres of wooded land. Great
hunting area and a super cabin is included on the
land. 15 minutes from the Capital District. Plenty
of trees for logging.........................$125,000
A completely remodeled 2 story, 3 BR, 1 1/25
bath home. All new stainless steel appliances. It
is in move-in condition. A perfect home for the
first time buyer or the downsizers. Nice side yard
for the kids to play in or for family parties. This
is not a drive by................................$68,900
Cozy Cape Cod home with open dining area to
LR with wall-to-wall carpeting over HW floors and
FP. Interior also features EIK, good size BRs on
1st floor with full bath. Basement has FR with
BR, full bath and laundry room. Exterior has
stucco siding, small patio and 1 car garage.
Great location with easy access to gold course
and Rt. 30 shopping.........................$89,500
Sale P
ending
Sold
181 Church St., Amsterdam
Great income property, with new roof. Two car garage,
large kitchens, large LRs. 2nd floor has enclosed
porch. Close to several local stores. Wood floors. Taxes
do not include STAR. Priced to move.......$59,000
339 Division Avenue, Amst.
Spacious 2 story home featuring large living room,
family room, dining room and EIK w/built-in
cabinets. 1st floor also has separate washer and
dryer room. A must see home!............$78,500
453 County Line Rd., Schenectady
Attractive 2 BR Cape in the Guilderland School District.
Updates include new vinyl siding, windows, bath, and
hot water heater. Septic system has been replaced
and home is hooked up into town water. Great for
first time buyers or down-sizers...........$128,750
300 State Highway. 67, Amst.
Great investment opportunity on this highly visible
gas station with 1,600 sq. ft. retail store on Rt. 67
north of Amsterdam. Plenty of parking and easy
access. This business comes full equipped. A turnkey operation.................................$219,000
22 Fairmount Avenue, Amst.
A beautiful 3 bedroom (one a master suite on 2nd
floor), 2 full bath, eat-in kitchen, 3 season room,
finished all knotty pine rec room in the basement
2 story home in the desirable golf course area.
This home is a must see!...................$84,900
BUYING? SELLING? Our trusted team of Real Estate Professionals offer you personalized service and the ability to produce
the results you want and deserve. Visit our new website for State-of-the-Art Virtual Tours at VASSIREALESTATE.COM
6
Real Estate Express
Modern
Man Cave
Musts
(BPT) — Whether in a workshop, garden or garage,
American men have always enjoyed their personal spaces.
With the rise of flat-screen technology, having a “man cave”
became an official home improvement trend. In fact, a 2013
survey by online retailer Newegg found that more than half
of American homes now have a man cave. Now, after more
than a decade of partying, man caves have matured.
Modern man caves go far beyond pricey audio-visual
components, a refrigerator and a couple of worn-out
recliners. Today, luxury and entertainment features
share space with practical ones, and when perfectly balanced, create a room to meet a variety of needs - relaxation, fun, family time and even work.
If you’re ready to create a man cave in your home, or
take your existing guy-centric space to the next level,
here are a handful of upgrades sure to make your cave
feel like a castle:
Tech heaven
A TV is a must for any man cave, but it’s no longer
enough to simply have a huge flat screen and a remote control. To really be worthy of your man cave, whether plasma, LED or LCD, a flat screen should have all the latest
bells and whistles, including Internet access, 3-D, high definition and a full-motion wall mount. Surround sound and
satellite signal (for visual and audio content) are also musts.
Tech needs don’t stop with A/V requirements, however.
Creating a computer center, complete with Wi-Fi, laptop and multiple screens, not only enhances gaming
October 2014
opportunities, it can allow your man cave to double as an
office. A refrigerator is a man cave staple, and plenty of
high-tech versions are available for smaller spaces like a
converted basement or garage. Add a wine or beer cooler,
or even a humidor to round out your tech needs.
Liquid realities
Man caves often wind up in a converted garage, finished
basement or bonus room over the garage – scenarios that
can make it difficult to incorporate running water into your
plan. Cutting through the concrete floor of a garage or
basement to install drainage can make adding a bathroom
or wet bar cost-prohibitive, and it may be inconvenient to
open drywall to add traditional plumbing to a bonus room.
Above-floor plumbing can make it easy and cost-effective
to add water-dependent features that are both practical and
luxurious. “If you want to add a bathroom or wet bar to a
smaller space, or one with a concrete floor, above-floor
plumbing overcomes many of the challenges created by traditional plumbing,” says Regis Saragosti, CEO of SFA Saniflo
Inc., a manufacturer of above-floor plumbing products.
Macerating systems for toilets (also known as up-flush
plumbing) make it easy, cost-effective and quick to add a
bathroom to a man cave. Drain pumps, often used for
kitchens and sinks, are useful in creating a fully functional wet bar. To learn more about above-floor plumbing
and its applications, visit www.saniflo.com.
Thinking outside the cave walls
The very concept of a man cave is about going your
own way, but early iterations seemed to follow the same
basic, frat-style formula of sports-themed decor, cheap
seating and high-priced tech toys. Today, man caves are
as individual as the men inhabiting them. Look for ways
to personalize the space for your interests and needs.
Have a passion for working out but don’t always feel
like having an audience or trekking to the gym? Include
some fitness equipment in your man cave. Prefer to get
some work done late at night and don’t want to keep the
family up? Park a desk and PC in a convenient corner.
Love golf but can’t stand pool? Ditch that man-cave staple – a billiard table – and put in a mini putting green.
Finally, don’t overlook the fact that the king of the
castle (or man cave) might want to invite his queen into
the space. In fact, 89 percent of the men surveyed by
Newegg said they would welcome a member of the opposite sex into their man cave. So be sure your man cave
includes comfortable seating, dimmable lighting and a
film collection that goes beyond sports and action flicks.
October 2014
7
Real Estate Express
Tips on how to prepare your windows
and doors for winter and save energy
(BPT) — How much do you
spend on utilities? Are you looking for ways to save? A typical
American household spends about
$2,100 on energy bills each year,
according to the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA). Most of that expense
comes from a home’s energy use
during the winter heating season.
But a quick home checkup can
help you can reduce these costs,
prepare for winter and enjoy
energy savings.
Properly installed and maintained windows and doors
can help keep your home more comfortable year-round.
Save on heating costs by preparing your windows and
doors for winter with these tips:
• Clear sills and moving parts of dirt and debris.
Debris like sand, dirt or leaves can get caught in windowsills and moving parts of windows or doors. Clean
these areas with a dry paintbrush to create a tighter seal
and enhance window and door performance.
• Check weather stripping. Re-attach or replace missing
or worn weather stripping around
windows and doors. Loose weather
stripping can let cold air in during
the winter and out in the summer,
reducing energy efficiency.
• Reapply caulk or sealant
around windows and doors.
Reseal areas around windows
and doors that may have been
exposed to heavy weather or
extreme sunlight – creating
breaks in caulk or sealant – to
help reduce potential drafts and
leaks.
• Installing snap-in blinds or
shades. Install snap-in blinds or
shades to help insulate your home
from cold outdoor temperatures.
Pella Designer Series windows and
patio doors feature convenient
between-the-glass options to add
energy efficiency and privacy.
• Repair or replace damaged
exterior surfaces. Cracked or
deteriorated wood associated with
water penetration may allow
moisture or cold air to leak into
your home. Look closely for signs
of moisture leakage and replace damaged wood. Consult a
professional to help correct any roof or drainage problems
around your home.
• Install storm doors. Storm doors add an extra layer of
protection and help reduce air and moisture leakage.
Adding a Pella storm door to your exterior doors can reduce
energy loss through the entryway by up to 45 percent.
• Replace old windows and doors with energy-efficient
ones. If you have single-pane glass, clear glass, or older windows or doors, you may be paying more to heat your home in
the winter and cool it in the summer. Replace old windows with
energy-efficient, double or triplepane glass versions made with insulating argon, or install new durable
fiberglass doors to help save money
and energy year-round.
Visit Pella Windows and Doors
on Pinterest for design inspiration and Pella.com/news to connect with a Pella representative
for tips on caring for your windows and doors, or choosing new
replacements.
Reserve your
ad space now!
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October 2014
Real Estate Express
Spray paint tips to flawlessly
update your home’s furniture
(BPT) — With the warmer weather, now is the ideal time to bring
new life to home decor. Whether
your outdoor items are looking
worn and weathered – or your
indoor spaces need a pop of color –
spray paint is the perfect solution.
To ensure your furniture update
goes flawlessly, follow these few tips
from the experts at Krylon, the
nation’s leader in spray paint.
Prep properly
Surface preparation is extremely
important and the best predictor of
how long your finish will last. The
goal is to make your surface as
smooth as possible to ensure the new
paint adheres well. Remove any loose
rust or paint by lightly sanding.
Next, clean surfaces with soap and
water or degreaser, if necessary.
Rinse and let your surface dry completely. Your surface should now be
clean, dull and dry.
To prime or not to prime
Primer prepares bare metal,
wood, canvas or other materials to
create a smooth surface for paint. It
also seals the surface to help
smoothen out blemishes, increase
spray paint adhesion and improve
corrosion resistance.
While priming is a critical step,
research shows that consumers only
use a primer 50 percent of the time.
For the same results with fewer
steps, try a combination spray paint
with primer.
Choosing the right product
It is important to choose the product that meets the needs for your substrate – as well as your style.
Plastic/laminates
With the popularity of ready-toassemble furniture made of laminates
and storage items made of plastic,
these surfaces are prime targets for
painting. However, without the right
product, your project could turn out
less than desirable.
“Most consumers don’t realize
that not all plastics are the same,”
says Denise Patterson, Krylon product manager. “In fact, most spray
paints on the market will not adhere
to the most popular plastics found in
furniture, toys and storage. Krylon’s
new Dual Superbond spray paint
offers a unique formulation that
promises quality adhesion to 85 percent of plastics, as well as hard-toadhere surfaces, such as melamine
and laminates.”
Metal
For metal surfaces – especially
those that are exposed to outdoor elements – it is important to choose a
product that provides rust protection.
“Many products that claim rust
protection only work when used with
an additional primer,” says
Patterson. “Using a combination
product, such as Dual Superbond
Paint + Primer ensures that all surfaces will achieve superior rust protection without a multi-step process.”
Wood
Choosing the best spray paint for
wood is dependent on the finish, use
and location of your surface. Exterior
projects should always be primed for
the greatest durability. A general purpose spray paint, such as Krylon
ColorMaster, is an ideal choice for
wood. This new product offers the
widest color selection with nearly 100
colors and finishes, as well as offering
a combination paint and primer for a
one-step application.
Spraying specifics
Before you spray, shake your can
for about two minutes. Next, hold the
can 6 to 8 inches away from the surface and use several thin coats of
spray paint instead of one thick coat.
Begin and finish your spray pattern
off the object using an even side-toside motion, releasing the tip at the
end of each pass. Try to overlap your
spray pattern by about one-third with
each pass.
As you prepare to paint new life
into your home decor, these few tips
and tricks will ensure your project
is painless and pretty for years to
come. For more painting tips or
information on Krylon products,
visit www.krylon.com.
October 2014
9
Real Estate Express
316 Mohawk Drive • Tribes Hill, NY 12177
www.judithannrealty.com
(518) 829-7250
Judith Ann Phetteplace
Licensed Real Estate Broker
New
Listing
New
Listing
Noonan Road, T.O.A.
Maple Avenue, T.O.A.
Adorable Cape Cod situated on a beautiful lot.
Home features Pine kitchen with center island
and appliances, cozy DR and LR with wood
floors. 4 beds total, and 2 full baths, (new one
on 2nd floor) and an enclosed back porch.
Patio area behind the 1 car garage, fire pit,
fenced in back yard with mature landscaping.
Home is getting new siding and a roof soon!
$105,000
New
Listing
Haskell St., Hagaman
Clean, well maintained 5 bedroom house on
a quiet street in Hagaman. Home has an eat
in kit., DR and cozy LR. First floor bath,
laundry area on the enclosed back porch,
deck off the back, great back yard, large
driveway and a 1 car garage with workshop.
$84,500
New
Listing
Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam
Northern Blvd., T.O.A.
Ranch style house in a nice residential setting.
Lg. kit. w/ appliances dining area and spacious
LR with H/W floors. 3 bedrooms, a full bath
and all set on a full poured, foundation.
Laundry in the basement, 1 car
attached garage.
$115,000
New
Listing
New
Listing
Charming Brick Federal Style Colonial home
has an eat in kit. w/ maple cabinets and
granite counter tops. Dining area with tile
floor, LR with bluestone FP, 3 bedrooms, 2
new baths, tiled entrance foyer and partially
finished basement. Custom exterior door
out to the amazing in ground pool area with
18’ x 36’ cabana, and totally fenced in.
$165,000
New
Listing
Privacy is what you enjoy with this 3 bed 1
bath split level set on a 1.40 acre lot bordered
by woods. Inside has an Oak eat in kit. with
separate dining area with fireplace and a over
sized LR with vaulted ceiling and wood
burning fireplace. Partially finished basement
FR with fireplace and deck off the side of the
house. 2 car garage.
$95,000
New
Listing
To view our
Listings
near you, scan
QR code.
New
Listing
Ft. Hunter Rd., T.O.F.
Raised Ranch style home with open kitchen,
w/ appliances, dining area and LR w/ brick
fireplace and granite mantel. Updated kitchen
with antique cabinets, Corian counter tops
and center island with granite. 3 bedrooms, 2
baths, FR addition with vaulted ceiling and
brick fireplace. Attached 2 car garage, fenced
18’ x 36’ in ground pool with newer liner a
pool house, all set on 1.70 acres!
$199,500
New
Listing
Hickory Hill Rd., Fonda
Excellent condition Ranch style home situated
on a 100’x175’ lot. Home has good sized kit.,
dining area and large LR with picture window.
Enclosed back porch, nice 2 car garage and a
great lawn in a great neighborhood!
$110,000
New
Listing
FFCS Schools
Good condition single family home situated on
a quiet side street. Home features galley kit. w/
solid wood cabinets, HW and appliances, DR
and spacious LR. 2 beds, 1 bath w/laundry,
side porch to newer garage, open front porch
and a great back yard!
$49,900
Broadalbin-Perth Colonial
2,210 sq. ft. Colonial style home situated on a
beautiful 4.10 acres. Home features kitchen
with new countertops, updated LR and DR
with gas FP. A total of 4 bdrms and 2 baths.
Master suite has cathedral ceilings and an
amazing master with every amenity that you
could dream of! Upstairs has radiant heating,
new furnace, a super yard and a 2 car garage
with workshop!
$239,000
Nice Farmhouse style home comes with a 1.20
acre lot and a 1.90 acre lot! Home features 4
beds, 1 1/2 baths, country kit. w/appliances,
formal DR, large LR and beautiful den.
Gorgeous private yard, enclosed front porch,
barn, 2 car garage and a great country setting.
$115,000
New
Listing
George St., Amsterdam
Sweet turn key ready cottage that overlooks
the city and Town of Florida! Home has
updated kit. with white cabinets and
appliances, DR and nice LR w/HW floors. 2
beds, 1 full bath with wainscoted walls, full
basement, new breakers, roof and furnace!
Great level back yard with storage shed.
$67,500
New
Listing
Cranes Hollow Rd., Amsterdam
1840’s Farmhouse in a rural setting. Home
sits on a 14 acre parcel that is perfect for
horses or livestock. Home has great
woodwork inside with wainscoted walls and
H/W flooring. Eat in kit. with a pantry, LR, 3
beds and 2 baths. Large open front porch,
enclosed back porch, a stream and several old
barns are also on the property.
$112,500
New
Listing
McKay Road, T.O.A.
Beautiful Log Home situated on a 1.80 acre lot.
Home has open concept kit. w/ breakfast bar
and appliances, DR and LR with stone
fireplace. Large master suite upstairs and loft
area overlooking the LR. 2 more beds and a
full bath on the 1st floor. 2 level deck off the
side of the house! Full basement could make a
perfect FR with a walk out sliding glass doors
to the back yard.
$189,000
New
Listing
Spacious family home!
Cape Cod style home in a nice neighborhood.
Lg. eat in kit. w/appliances, pantry and
breakfast room. Formal DR, LR w/FP, parlor,
and FR. 4 beds, and 2 1/2 baths. Full
basement, 2 porches, and a 2 car garage.
Home is beautiful and very well taken care of!
$87,500
New
Listing
Great South Side Location
Country Location
To view our
Open Houses
near you, scan
QR code.
Town of Amsterdam Home
Great home nestled along the woods. Home
has kit. w/all appliances, formal DR with HW
flooring, LR with dark mahogany stained
woodwork, FP with gas insert and HW floors.
4 beds, 2 baths, den/office, plenty of built-ins,
storage shed, nice oversized 1 car garage and
screened in front porch.
$98,000
New
Listing
Fultonville Development
Immaculate Ranch style home in a great
Great condition Raised Ranch style home in a
Rt. 30S, Amsterdam
location! Updated, eat in kit. w/SS appliances
community of newer homes. Home features
Great condition Ranch style home on a
and Pergo flooring, open DR and LR with HW
kit. w/appliances, dining area with slider out to
beautiful 1.30 acre lot! Home features updated
floors, 2 beds and a new bath with cherry
a nice deck and great fenced in back yard!
kit. w/appliances and breakfast nook, and large
cabinets and granite countertop vanity.
Bright LR, 3 beds and a bath on the upper
Laundry area in the basement that also has DR/LR combo. 3 beds, 1 bath, full basement, 1 level. Lower level is perfect for a family room!
car garage plus a car port and a gazebo in the
another possible bedroom and a 3/4
2 car attached garage and beautiful
back yard. Gorgeous country setting!
bathroom. Nice back yard and a 1 car garage.
landscaping in the front!
$124,000
New
Listing
$135,000
$149,900
New
Listing
Wesleyan Ave., Amsterdam
Crane St., Amsterdam
Beautiful home featuring Carriage House kit. w/
Gorgeous Brick Ranch!
appliances, formal DR and LR with HW floors,
Cottage style home features nice eat in kit. w/
This
well
kept
home,
in
a
super
neighborhood,
and newly remodeled lower level FR with
appliances included, large LR with picture
features nice white kit. w/tile countertops and separate pantry. 3 beds, 2 1/2 baths, 1st floor
window, 3 beds and 1 bathroom. Expansion
many
cabinets,
formal
DR,
LR
w/gas
FP,
den
laundry
with new washer and dryer, mud
attic would make great master suite. Nice yard,
with gas FP, 2+ lg. beds, 2 baths, full basement room, 1 car garage, shed, spacious yard with
open front porch and set in a great
would
make
nice
FR,
and
a
2
car
garage.
new
landscaping
and great open front porch!
neighborhood!
$68,000
$205,000
Sylvia Lane, Amsterdam
Immaculate Raised Ranch style home
situated on a 100’x110’ lot as per deed.
Adorable 2 story Colonial style home
Cottage style home overlooking the river.
Home is situated on a quiet alcove of new
situated on a 70’x338’ lot as per deed.
Home has an updated kitchen with wainscoted
homes and has a Oak Add-Life kit. with
Home has an eat in kit. with appliances,
walls and pellet stove, DR & LR with brick FP
appliances, vaulted ceiling formal DR and
formal DR and LR with stone fireplace. 2
and French doors. 3 bdrms, 1 bath, HW
LR with double sided fireplace, 3 bedrooms
flooring, nice side yard and covered porch. 2 bedrooms, (master has cathedral ceiling), 1 and 2 1/2 baths. Lower level FR also has a
full bath, down has nice wood ceilings and brick fireplace. In ground pool all fenced in,
parking areas, 1st floor laundry and
wood flooring. Very charming home!
replacement windows throughout.
and an over sized 2 car garage.
Young Ave., T.O.A.
Unique Home!
$62,000
$99,000
$149,900
$139,000
New Construction Hagaman
Executive ranch with 1,518 sq. ft. of living
area. It has an open kitchen with cherry
stained cabinets, granite countertops,
stainless appliances, open DR & LR with 9’
ceilings. 3 BR, 2 tile baths, 1st floor
laundry, HW floors, 2 car garage, full
basement, deck off the back, and great
private cul-de-sac location! Offered at
$242,000
10
Real Estate Express
October 2014
How to choose a patio door to
transform your home’s view
(BPT) — It’s the time of year to get outside, dine on
the deck, bask in the backyard or relax on the patio.
Is your home ready for summer entertaining or is it
time for a remodeling or replacement project? If the
answer is the latter, now’s the time to get more out of your
home by improving access to the great outdoors.
You can do this by replacing your patio door.
Replacing it can transform your home’s view and comfort
year-round. Here’s how you can begin the process.
Select a style: hinged or sliding
Hinged – Hinged patio doors, often called French
doors, add an elegant look to your home. Choose from
popular options like two movable doors that swing open
from the sides to allow room to move in big furniture or
groups of guests, or movable and fixed door combinations
that can hinge from the center or a single door for simple
elegance. You can also create a custom design, complete
with sidelights or transom windows, to span your home’s
unique architecture.
Sliding – If floor space is limited or if your patio door
opens to a balcony, consider a sliding patio door, since
they take up less floor space. Look for a patio door with
the sliding panel on the outside, so that when the wind
blows against it, the design creates a tighter, more energyefficient seal to help keep your home comfortable.
Many sliding patio doors from Pella offer the Rolscreen
retractable insect screen option to refresh your home with
fresh air. Roll the Rolscreen in place to help keep insects
out and simply roll it out of sight to blend in with the patio
door’s design when not in use.
Choose energy-efficient options
Look for the ENERGY STAR to easily select energyefficient patio door styles, like those from Pella made from
wood, fiberglass or vinyl frames with double- or triplepane insulating glass options.
Wood – Consider the natural warmth, beauty and
energy-efficiency of wood patio doors. They are available
in virtually any shape, size, grille pattern, and exterior
color. You can save time by choosing factory prefinished
wood interiors and trim.
Vinyl – For exceptional energy performance, outstanding strength and weather resistance, consider a vinyl patio
door. Low-maintenance vinyl sliding doors will look great
for years, without the need for painting.
Fiberglass – For a durable product that withstands
extreme weather, plus resists dents and high traffic from
people or pets, consider a fiberglass patio door. Sleek,
strong, highly-energy efficient fiberglass withstands
extreme heat, cold, and moisture. With a long-lasting powder coat finish, fiberglass patio doors like the Pella
Impervia line don’t need painting and resist sagging and
warping, even in dark colors, even in hot climates.
Decide on decorative options
Optional between-the-glass shades or blinds help
reduce dust accumulation, eliminating the dreaded chore
of cleaning blinds or shades. Blinds or shades betweenthe-glass are a natural for patio doors, since they don’t
interfere with the operation of the door itself, yet make it
a breeze to control light and privacy. Plus, shades and
blinds without roomside cords are safer options for homes
with pets or children.
Choose from grilles permanently applied to the exterior
of glass surfaces or with the added convenience of betweenthe-glass grille options that make cleaning a breeze. You
can also consider removable grilles to transform your
home’s look from contemporary to Colonial in a snap.
Transform your home’s view
Visit Pella Windows and Doors on Houzz for more
design inspiration and Pella.com/news to learn more, and
schedule an in-home consultation. Call 855-735-5232 to
connect with your local Pella representative to discuss
your home improvement project.
October 2014
Real Estate Express
11
Keep them home, happy and studying:
Creating a kid-friendly space
(BPT) — Would a great study space ease your child’s
transition from summer to school? Perhaps an awesome
lounge area could convince your teens – and all their friends
– that your house is the best hangout spot ever. Whatever
your objectives, a few design and decorating tricks can help
you create a kid-friendly space in your home.
The basics of good design that make grown-up spaces
appealing also work for children’s spaces. When designing
a kid-friendly room, however, it’s important to keep in
mind not only the purpose of the room (study, fun, sleep,
etc.) but the age of the occupant, his or her interests as
well as incorporating fun into the design. Here are some
tips to get you started:
• Consider creating a
theme. Kids of all ages love
themes. To decide which one
might be right for your project, consider things your child
has shown an enduring interest in. For example, she may
be into princesses right now
and hate the theme next year.
On the other hand, if she’s
always loved the color pink
and has a passion for animals,
those elements could be
worked into a theme that she’ll appreciate for years to come.
• Choose flooring that fulfills multiple needs. Carpeting
absorbs sound (for when kids play loud video games or
music) and is comfortable for youngsters who like to sit or
lie on the floor while they do homework, read, watch TV or
socialize. What’s more, it’s available in virtually every hue
and pattern imaginable, ensuring you’ll find something that
appeals to both your design sense and your child’s tastes.
Stain-resistant formulas and durable fibers ensure modern
carpeting can stand up to the rigors of use in a child’s
room. And, according to the Carpet & Rug Institute, properly cleaned carpet can maintain indoor air quality, making
it a viable choice for families impacted by asthma and aller-
gies. To learn more about carpet, visit www.carpet-rug.org.
• A child’s space needs layers of lighting, just as adult
spaces do. As you’re choosing lighting, keep in mind how
your child will use the room. If he will be doing homework,
task lighting and desk lights will illuminate study areas. Will
the room be a movie room or a “hangout” for older teens?
Recessed and dimmable lighting may be appropriate. Don’t
forget to include natural light in your illumination plans.
Avoid heavy drapery. Instead, opt for bright colors and
lightweight materials for window treatments so windows
admit ample light. If you have a larger budget, consider
adding a skylight to provide light while preserving privacy.
• Organization is key in a
child’s room, and ample
storage facilitates good
organization. Depending on
the size of the room and how
it will be used, shelving,
portable cubes, book cases
and other furnishings can
provide plenty of storage
space. For desks, look for
desktop organizers that will
keep important papers and
supplies tidy and close at
hand. By helping kids stay
organized now, you’ll be laying the foundation for a lifetime of good organizational skills.
• Remember the fun factor. Whatever the purpose of a
child’s room, fun should be a universal ingredient. You
can infuse fun in a room in many ways, from creating a
video game center for lounge rooms to choosing colorful,
texturally appealing carpeting for a bedroom. A touch of
whimsy, such as a swing hung from the ceiling or a wall
mural of your child’s favorite cartoon character, can produce smiles every time kids see them.
With some creativity and the right decorating materials,
it’s possible to create a space that will make children comfortable, happy and ready to tackle the new school year.
5
12
Real Estate Express
October 2014
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U"#$%&'(
(BPT) — No one ever said “trendy” translates to
“cheap.” Yet when it comes to on-trend, luxury upgrades,
you don’t have to spend like a diva to make your bathroom look and function like a designer’s dream. From skylights to shower seats, some of the hottest bathroom trends
of 2014 are surprisingly affordable to accomplish.
Home website Houzz polled users and asked what bathroom upgrades they most desired. Many of the answers
were both luxurious and affordable (like skylights and
double-flush toilets). Others were downright easy, such as
towel warmers and foot rests in the shower. Here are five
hot bathroom improvement trends and some ideas for
incorporating them into your home:
1. Skylights
Many Houzz respondents said they would like a skylight in their bathroom. They’re definitely on to something. In rooms where privacy is a concern, skylights can
provide both natural light and ventilation without exposing your personal business to the neighbors. They’re both
beautiful – endowing bathrooms with a major “wow” factor – and practical; Energy Star-qualified no-leak, solarpowered fresh-air skylights from Velux America can help
trim electricity costs by providing natural light and passively venting moist, warm air from the room. Install
solar-powered skylights and blinds, and the cost of the
products, as well as the installation, can qualify for a 30
percent federal tax credit. And for 10 weeks during the
summer there’s also a $200 cash rebate from Velux on
solar skylights. You can create a big impact for a small
price with a makeover that only takes a couple of days.
Visit www.whyskylights.com to learn more and to locate
the closest certified installer.
2. Lighted vanity mirror
In keeping with the lighting theme, 41 percent said they
would like a lighted vanity mirror. Home improvement
stores, design studios and online retailers carry a wide
variety of options in shapes, sizes, styles and light sources
(LED, CFL or incandescent) to suit virtually every taste.
Because installing a lighted vanity mirror is a simple do-ityourself job, it’s also a very low-cost improvement that
has a big impact on a bathroom’s appearance and usability. With such a huge variety, it’s possible to find a mirror
that will fit your budget, whether it’s less than $100 or
more than $1,000.
that don’t cost a bundle
3. Double-flush toilet
The ongoing trend of making homes greener may have
helped inspire the 23 percent of Houzz fans who said they
want a double-flush toilet. Dual-flush toilets allow you to
use only the water you need to get the job done – less for
liquid waste, more for solids – so they contribute to a
home’s overall footprint and can help trim water bills. It’s
Skylights bring not only daylighting and fresh air into
the bath but provide privacy as well.
October 2014
possible to find dual-flush options for
less than $250, so they’re a lower-cost
upgrade to begin with. They’re even
more cost-effective when installed by
a savvy DIYer.
4. Towel warmers
Who doesn’t love the comforting
warmth of a towel fresh out of the
dryer? Towel warmers deliver that
effect without the hassle and expense
of running the dryer. Wall-mounted
or free-standing, plug-in or hardwired, all towel warmers work the
same way; heated bars warm towels
hung on the rack, providing a cozy,
warm towel every time you bathe.
Plug-in versions install easily, while
hard-wired ones may require professional installation. Prices can range
from less than $100 to more than
$600, depending on the style and features you choose.
5. Shower foot rest
Clearly, this is one improvement
that most benefits the women in a
home, but 10 percent of those polled by
Houzz said they wanted a foot rest in
the shower. This one is such an economical improvement, you may wonder
why anyone wouldn’t do it. Some suc-
Real Estate Express
tion-cup styles cost under $20. For a
more refined look or enhanced sturdiness, it’s possible to find one that
anchors into the wall through screws,
13
or a style built into shower surrounds.
If you’re redoing your shower stall, it’s
the perfect time to add a stylish, sturdy
foot rest.
Enjoy abundant natural light from above, plus privacy, and have usable
wall space where you no longer need a window. Skylights provide not
only daylighting but fresh air as well. Solar powered fresh air skylights
and blinds, along with installation costs, are eligible for a 30 percent
federal tax credit.
DIY projects to help you whip winter
(BPT) — The leaves are starting to
fall off the trees, the birds are flying
south and you can feel the temperature
dropping. Winter is on its way and
while squirrels pack away food before
the first snow fall, you’ll be relieved to
know that you still have time to finish
some projects listed below to get your
home ready for winter.
• Tackle the yard. Your yard will
fall into dormancy during the winter,
but a little prep now can help your
green space bounce back in the
spring. Fertilize your lawn using a
lawn spreader from your local rental
store to turn this all-day chore into a
task that takes just a couple of
hours. And don’t waste the rest of
your day raking the yard; instead,
rent a leaf blower to finish this task
in a fraction of the time.
• Seal the gaps. Find the places
where cold air sneaks into your home
and you will drastically reduce your
heating bills throughout winter. Feel
along your windows and doors for
any drafts. Seal larger cracks with
caulk and cover your windows in
plastic wrap for comprehensive protection. If you have a real chimney,
don’t forget to close the damper to
prevent cold air from billowing down
the chimney.
• Clean the carpets. The winter
season can be hard on your carpets
as snow, salt and dirt get tracked in
from outside. Cleaning them before
winter begins puts them in the best
possible shape for the colder months
ahead. You may think you need to
hire professional carpet cleaners, but
you can actually handle this project
yourself by renting a carpet cleaner
to conquer the task. You can visit
RentalHQ.com to find your local
rental store and for tips on renting a
carpet cleaner.
• Protect pipes from freezing. A
ruptured pipe can ruin your home and
everything in it. Ruptured pipes occur
during winter when the pipes freeze
and the frozen water inside expands.
You can protect against this by never
letting your home’s temperature fall
below 65 degrees. Wrap pipes running
along the exterior walls in heat tape,
and be sure to check on your pipes on
those bitterly cold nights.
• Empty the gutters. If left
unchecked, falling leaves and other
debris will clog your gutters and
downspouts, which can cause ice
dams in the winter. Start by trimming or removing trees and hedges
near the gutters. If you lack the tools
to complete this project, you can rent
a brush cutter, tree trimmer or ladder to do the job. Once obstructions
have been removed, clear the gutters
to prevent a future home disaster.
These simple steps will help you
winterize your home so you can
enjoy a happy, hazard-free holiday
season. To learn more winterizing
tips and to find rental stores in your
area, visit RentalHQ.com.
14
Real Estate Express
Upgrades
that scream
with
cheaper-than-you-think
price tags
Velux Sun Tunnel tubular skylights bring natural light
to areas where traditional skylights may not be the
best choice. They are less expensive and easier to
install in areas such as halls, closets, interior rooms
and other spaces that need additional daylighting.
Decorative ceiling diffusers add a touch of style.
October 2014
(BPT) — Hand-planed, reclaimed hardwood floors?
Beautiful but pricey. Custom drapery? The cost can be
blinding. When it comes to home decorating, it’s easy to
blow your budget on one or two upgrades – and maybe
that would be OK if those improvements also amped up
the drama in your decor. Too often, however, costly decorating ploys disappoint, wearing out or becoming dated
before you’ve paid off the financing.
Fortunately, a handful of upgrades just scream “luxury” – while the price tags quietly snicker “this look didn’t
cost an arm and a leg.” They may not be as cheaply priced
as fresh paint or some new throw pillows, but these surprisingly affordable improvements deliver high impact at a
manageable cost.
Adding skylights
Luxury, drama and energy efficiency are the trifecta of
home decorating and improvement – and few upgrades
deliver all three qualities as well as skylights. Because they
admit abundant natural light into a room, skylights have a
powerful impact. Install Energy Star-qualified, no-leak,
solar-powered fresh-air skylights like those from Velux
America, and they can help reduce electric bills by providing natural light and passive ventilation. They draw no
power and operate by a remote control that can be programmed for multiple functions.
Add solar-powered blinds and the cost of the skylights
and blinds, as well as installation costs, are eligible for a
30 percent federal tax credit. What’s more, professional
installation costs range from a low of around $900 to a
high of about $2,100, with $1,475 being the average,
according to HomeAdvisor.com.
If you’re only interested in more natural light from
above, or if a traditional skylight won’t fit in your space,
VELUX Sun Tunnel tubular skylights, which are less
expensive to both purchase and install, are ideal for closets, hallways, interior baths and other special spaces. To
download a free app that can help you visualize how skylights will look in your home, visit www.veluxusa.com.
Gas fireplaces
Few improvements create ambience as effectively as a
fireplace. While adding a wood-burning fireplace to an
existing home may be difficult or impossible in many scenarios, modern gas fireplaces can go virtually anywhere –
including interior walls. Advancements in the technology
to make, operate and insulate gas fireplaces have made
adding one a relatively easy process. Direct-vent fireplaces
go on exterior walls and eliminate the need for a chimney.
Vent-free models are also available for interior locations in
a house.
The cost of installing a gas fireplace will vary, depending on many factors, including whether you have existing
natural gas service to your home and a line in or near the
room where you’ll be installing the fireplace. Although not
a do-it-yourself job for most homeowners, installing a gas
fireplace can cost as little as $3,000.
Wall murals
Humans have been painting scenes on the walls of our
abodes since the days of cavemen. A wall mural can create
virtually any effect you desire in any room of the house –
drama in a living room, elegance in a dining room, relaxation in a master bath, cozy comfort in a kitchen or whim-
October 2014
Real Estate Express
15
sy in a child’s bedroom. While a professional, hand-painted wall mural may cost more than your entire redecorating budget, modern wallpaper murals can allow you to
completely alter the look of a room for less than $500.
Requiring no paste or trimming, wallpaper murals can
easily be installed by the average homeowner.
Repositionable varieties can even be taken down and
moved from room to room.
Granite bathroom vanities
Granite remains the gold standard of luxury, beauty
and function when you’re talking about countertops.
Installing granite in a kitchen can be costly, especially if
you have a lot of counter space to cover. With smaller vanities and less counter space, however, bathrooms cost
much less to outfit in granite.
Professionally installed granite bathroom vanities can
cost just a few thousand dollars. To get an idea of costs for
your bathroom, use an online calculator like those found
at remodelingexpense.com.
Solar powered skylights, with decorative and energy efficient solar powered shades, both operated
by remote control, provide natural light and fresh
air to your kitchen while saving wall space for other
uses where windows aren’t needed. Venting solar
powered fresh air skylights with solar blinds, along
with installation costs, are eligible for a 30 percent
federal tax credit.
(BPT) — Whether it’s the
neighbor’s lawnmower, low-flying
aircraft, heavy traffic or loud
music, noise pollution can hinder
you from truly enjoying your
home. Nowadays, a quiet place to
relax and chill out can be increasingly difficult to find. Yet, a smart
investment in the right materials
can let you achieve both solace
and silence in your home.
Noise pollution can noticeably
contribute to issues such as cognitive impairment, language development problems, learning disabilities, mood disorders as
well as social and behavioral issues, according to online
medical resource, MedScape, While these conditions are
more likely to occur in children, there is a chance that
older residents can suffer due to noise pollution.
Eliminating noise pollution can have a significant impact
on motivation, education and overall mood.
The wrong kinds of noise pollution upgrades can often
mean homeowners spend a lot more than necessary and
get a lot less in return. Building experts note homeowners
are more likely to invest in soundproofing materials for
their theatre or media rooms rather than tackle the issue
of noise pollution holistically.
Investing in heavy soundproofing drapes and doubleglazed windows are a good start to minimizing external,
airborne noises. But what about flanking noises? That is,
those noises rumbling from piping and the water system
within your home. One versatile
option that addresses both airborne and flanking noise pollution
is spray foam insulation.
Spray foam insulation, like that
available from Icynene, is ideal
for targeting noise pollution while
providing a range of other benefits. Conforming to any space
when applied, spray foam insulation forms a thick, sponge-like
barrier that blocks the chaos of
the outside world and dampens
the flanking noises from your
home’s pipes improving the quality of life and health of
you and your family.
Installed by professionals, high performance spray
foam insulation goes beyond just noise dampening. It fills
every gap within the home’s walls and ceiling to stop air
escaping as well as reduces the strain on your heating
and cooling equipment. Spray foam insulation both insulates and air seals the entire building envelope letting
homeowners cut their monthly heating and cooling bills
by as much as 50 percent in some cases.
As a long-term solution, spray foam insulation helps
maintain a comfortable temperature year-round while
helping to control noise pollution. The buzzing of a lawnmower and the late night house party can be a thing of the
past thanks to a well-insulated home. More information
on how spray foam insulation can help you effectively
minimize noise pollution is available at www.icynene.com.
One
simple home
improvement
cuts noise
pollution while
boosting
energy savings
16
October 2014
Real Estate Express
REAL ESTATE
Arlene M. Sitterly, Inc.
PROFESSIONALS
Licensed Real Estate Brokers
• Terri Easterly 441-5425 • Shelley Yerdon, EPro, SRS 774-6668
• Clark Easterly, Jr. 774-0554
• Leslie Garber 577-8334
• Matthew J. Gifford 573-9212
• Selena Long 725-2021
• Shannon Brott 361-8704
• Frank Glover 844-4769
• Beth Wanmer 420-5953
Licensed Associate Real Estate Brokers
• Tammy Mytelka 774-7141
• Betty Olson 863-2012
• Carole J. Petrelia, GRI, ASP 527-3299
• Bradley Yerdon 332-2583
• Chris Simonds 844-9013
GLOVERSVILLE
Built to last! Beautiful wood
floors throughout, generous
foyer with charming open
stairway, solarium, butlers
pantry, fireplace, 4 attractive
bedrooms and 2 baths. It is a
warm comfortable home for
a family looking for lots of
space...$232,000
MLS 201418939
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JOHNSTOWN
Come take a look at this Johnstown
home with 2 car garage...$50,000
MLS 201418847
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JOHNSTOWN
JOHNSTOWN
The possibilities are endless for this 2
bedroom home located just outside
the city of Johnstown...$63,000
MLS 201418434
GLOVERSVILLE
Super location in the city yet country
atmosphere....$93,500
MLS 201420300
GLOVERSVILLE
Instant income with this fully rented
two-family home at a bargain
price...$29,000 MLS 201419994
E
IC
R
P
MAYFIELD
This home will please the most
discerning individual...situated on 4
acres in a park like setting...$289,900
MLS 201417894
GLOVERSVILLE
EW
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IC
R
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CAROGA LAKE
Looking for a well kept lakeside
home? Then this cottage with 50ft of
direct waterfront on East Caroga Lake
is for you...$295,000 MLS 201415144
CHECK OUT ALL NEW
LISTINGS BELOW!
EW
N
GLOVERSVILLE
LAKE PLEASANT
This home is in good condition and has
many upgrades throughout...Ready for This charming Adirondack home
waiting to be brought back to
it’s new owners...$79,900
life...$79,900 MLS 201419879
MLS 201420131
GLOVERSVILLE
This offering will be a new custom
duplex on a 5 acre lot, this price
reflects one unit. Call the listing office
for more details...$139,900
MLS 201419623
EW
N
Priced to sell! This home needs some
cosmetic work but has all of the basics
coverd...$39,000 MLS 201418247
• Loretta Weldner 762-9885 ext. 121
• Donna Yerdon, ASP 774-6600
• Karen Wheeler, SRS, ABR 424-9826
GLOVERSVILLE
Commercial opportunity! An
ideal location for a franchise,
this prime vacant land next to
the new Walmart Supercenter
consists of 2 parcels for a total
of 1.53 acres with 240ft of road
frontage. This property has
municipal water and sewer
utilities...$350,000
MLS 201420060
EW
N
EW
N
EW
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EW
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EW
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EW
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Brick by brick! This former church
rectory, with lots of room for a large
family, is waiting to be loved
again...$89,000 MLS 201420027
EW
N
Licensed Associate Real Estate Sales Persons
• Don Tascano 332-2959
• Alex Mytelka 774-7141
EW
N
• Cheri Reimann 844-2636
• Clayton J. Sitterly 762-9885
• Lisa Sweet 332-4348
LOOKING FOR A
FULFILLING CAREER?
BECOME A REALTOR!
JOIN THE CBAMS TEAM.
CALL SHELLEY OR
TERRI FOR MORE
INFORMATION
AT 762-9885
EW
N
GLOVERSVILLE
JOHNSTOWN
Lots of possibilities! This 3 bedroom Get out the tools...Inspect this good
home needs some TLC but is priced to sized
2-story
home
with
7
sell!..$42,500 MLS 201419702
rooms...$45,900 MLS 201418814
EW
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FORT PLAIN
If you love Victorian Architecture then
this is the house for you! There’s
plenty of space in this 4 bedroom, 2
bath home...$129,000 MLS 201407378
EW
N
E
IC
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JOHNSTOWN
This beautiful, well maintained home
located in Johnstown is ready for its
new owners...all you need to do is
simply move in!...$194,500
MLS 201405950