Inside This Issue…
Fast Fixes for Foreclosed Homes
Valentines Day Dinner
Tax Tips
Mood Foods to fight Winter Blues
Fun Fact:
The longest one syllable word in the English language is "screeched".
Nicole Nielsen
NEWSLETTER
Fast fixes for foreclosed homes
(ARA) - The high volume of foreclosed homes on the market is allowing some astute buyers to turn eyesores into eye-catching properties with only minimal investment. While not every property can be fixed up affordably, there are some common projects that dramatically improve a foreclosed home's appeal and value.
Here are some popular cost-effective options for breathing new life into a home in need.
Add new countertops.
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in any home, since it is a space where people spend a lot of time - from cooking dinner to entertaining friends. One of the most dramatic changes that can be made to a kitchen is adding new countertops. It alters the appearance of the space by changing the color scheme, depth and texture of the whole room.
Countertops range in price depending on room size, type of material and mode of installation. In an average kitchen, a new laminate countertop starts at around $1,000, with granite or quartz ranging from $3,000 to $6,000. Butcher-block countertops are another attractive, yet cost-effective option. Williamsburg Butcher Block Company offers options in both maple and American cherry starting around $310.
Replace the bathtub.
Foreclosed houses frequently come with water stains left by standing water in sinks, toilets and bathtubs. Updating a bathroom by installing a new bathtub not only removes the problem, but, because the tub is a core item, it creates a more pleasant feeling in the room. Bathtubs are available in many different styles and sizes, so there is likely to be one that suits any taste, from traditional to contemporary. Bathtubs start at around $300, depending on the size and style.
Trade carpeting for new wood flooring.
Foreclosed houses are frequently abandoned with soiled carpet that continues to gather buildup over time. Mold is also common in homes that have been left bare for extended periods. To get rid of hidden odors, allergens, irritants and mold, replace carpet with wood, particularly in high-traffic areas such as living rooms and great rooms.
In addition to reviving these common areas, swapping carpet for wood adds style and creates a more spacious feel. The choice of wood can also make a big difference. Light wood colors can make a room appear larger, medium-toned woods can make a room appear more traditional and dark flooring can make a room appear warmer.
"The introduction of so many new species, colors and types of wood flooring in recent years gives homeowners a lot of options when renovating a room at different price points," says Sullivan.
Laminate flooring can deliver the appearance of solid hardwoods, but costs less than $1 per square foot at places like Lumber Liquidators. This allows budget do-it-yourselfers the ability to transform a 400-square-foot area for as little as $750.
In addition to making a foreclosed home look new again, completing these easy and affordable updates can go a long way in restoring the value of the property when it comes time to sell. –Courtesy ARA Content-
Word of the Month:
Studies have shown that your income and wealth is directly related to the depth of your Vocabulary. Here is this month’s word so you can impress your friends.
Coquetry
\KOH-ki-tree; koh-KE-tree\ , noun;
1. the behavior or arts of a coquette; flirtation.
2. dalliance; trifling.
Example: 'You were probably very bored by it,' he said, catching at once, in mid-air, this ball of coquetry that she had thrown to him.
Quotes to Live by:
You can't expect people to look eye to eye with you if you are looking down on them.
- Anonymous
Keep it simple on Valentine's Day: Host a fun dinner with friends or family
(ARA) - Valentine's Day is no longer just a romantic day that is reserved only for lovers - it has grown to include friends and family with widespread celebrations. Try a role reversal with either friends or family members and give the usual cook a well-deserved break. Small and thoughtful acts can have a large impact this holiday.
A valuable thing we can do for those we love is to do something a little out of the ordinary such as a Valentine's Day family dinner. It does not have to be an expensive or time-consuming event but rather, a moment to share thoughts, feelings, smiles and laughter. A Valentine's Day dinner does not have to be any more difficult than any other meal; just add creativity and a lively atmosphere. A fun menu idea is to purchase individual pizza crusts and an array of fresh toppings such as red, yellow or green bell peppers; halved cherry tomatoes and olives; diced sweet onions, pepperoni or shredded chicken breast; and don't forget the pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese. "Let each friend or family member assemble their own pizza and then have a tasting party to experience each of the pizzas.
If you are looking to "wow" the crowd and prepare a more formal dinner, then you might want to incorporate beef. Filets are always a palate pleaser, but if you are looking for more cost-effective and just as tasty cuts, then rib-eyes or New York strips can be your staples. Instead of beef, pork tenderloins are also a healthy and tasty cut of meat and easy to prepare. Simply cook in the oven on a roasting rack or sheet pan for 15 minutes at 500 degrees and then let rest for 15 minutes. The tenderloin will come out perfect every time. As a side dish, halve a few pounds of red new potatoes, boil until fork tender and coat them in a mixture of horseradish and basil pesto for a zesty taste.
Chocolate is a nice finish to any meal and is always a welcome Valentine's Day treat. "Interactive desserts are great because they are always fun and can bring a smile to the faces of everyone involved," says Alexander. "Try an ice cream sundae bar with lots of fun Valentine's Day-inspired toppings such as heart-shaped chocolates, Red Hots candy and red and pink sprinkles, all on top of scoops of red raspberry ice cream." For a more romantic touch, try the iconic strawberries dipped in dark chocolate.
Whatever you choose to do this Valentine's Day, keep your plans simple and heartfelt with a special dinner for friends and family as a terrific option to celebrate this day of love.
-Courtesy of ARAcontent-
MOVIE TRIVIA:
Q: Which film pairs Anthony Quinn and Lauren Bacall as a romantic couple in their twilight years?
a. The Imperfect Lady b. A Star for Two
c. A Walk in the Clouds d. Waikiki Wedding
CALL ME NOW AT 435-881-7803
Would you like to know how much your neighbor’s home listed for?
Maybe you’re just curious. Or maybe you want to know how much equity you have in your home. Or perhaps you are thinking of selling soon and want to know how much your home increased in value. Either way, I can help…No “sales pitches” or runarounds. Just give me a call 888-888-8888 and I will give you the facts.
Economy at a Five easy ways that all taxpayers can maximize their federal refund.
1. Get organized. Gather your tax documents and organize by category. Locate records related to events including unemployment, college, new vehicles, having or adopting children, buying a house, moving and changing jobs. New tax laws may give you bigger breaks for those events this year.
2. Use tax preparation software. If you're going to do your own taxes, why pay if you don't have to? Free solutions like TaxACT Free Federal Edition guide you through the new credits, deductions and tax laws. They also do the math, help find missing information and identify potential errors. TaxACT Free Federal Edition at www.taxact.com allows everyone to prepare and e-file for free - regardless of income, age, state of residence and military status. TaxACT also includes a maximum refund guarantee and all e-file forms for simple and complex federal returns.
3. Remember the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Historically, one in four eligible taxpayers fail to claim this credit, designed for those whose earned incomes are below certain thresholds. The credit amount is based on filing status, age and number of qualifying children. Those without children also qualify. For 2009, more workers and families will qualify for this refundable credit. According to the Internal Revenue Service, one out of every six taxpayers will qualify this year. Taxpayers claiming the federal EITC may also be eligible for a similar credit on their state or local return.
4. Consider itemizing. The standard deduction for 2009 has increased to $5,700 for individual or married filing separately returns, $11,400 for joint returns or qualifying widow(er) returns and $8,350 for head of household returns. If your eligible deductions exceed the standard deduction amount, you're likely better off itemizing. Software like TaxACT will identify your best option after you enter your deductions.
5. File and pay as much as possible by April 15. Even if you can't pay your entire tax bill by the deadline, file early and schedule payment any time before April 15 (June 15 for taxpayers who qualify as "out of the country") to avoid penalties and interest. If you need a six-month extension (four months if "out of the country"), Form 4868 is due by April 15 and will extend your filing deadline to Oct. 15, 2010. Remember, an extension to file is not an extension to pay.
The fastest way to get your federal refund is to e-file your return and choose direct deposit, says Dolmage. The exception is those claiming the first-time homebuyer credit. To help prevent fraud, the IRS is requiring documentation for the credit to be mailed with their return and Form 5405 for the credit. In addition, the IRS says it likely won't start issuing those refunds until the end of March. Learn more about 2009 tax law changes and TaxACT at www.irs.gov and www.taxact.com.
-Courtesy of ARAcontent-
Food Facts:
-Cream is lighter than milk
-Sometimes frozen fruits and vegetables are more nutrious than fresh!
-Instant coffee has been in existence since the middle of the eighteenth century
Weird Laws:
Iowa- A man with a moustache may never kiss a woman in public!
Utah- It is illegal not to drink milk!
Pennsylvania- It is illegal to sleep on top of a refrigerator outdoors!
U.S.A. Facts
-Until the mid 1970s Presidents Day was know as George Washington’s birthday.
And…Whether you are thinking of buying, selling, or financing real estate, or stop by and say “hi”, I’d love to hear from you…
Nicole Nielsen
Equity Real Estate
435-881-7803
nicolenielsen@live.com
References:
-aracontent.com, copyright 1996-2009, ARAcontent
-http://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.us.htm
Mood Foods to Fight the Winter Blues
(ARA) - The holidays have come and gone, and the long haul to the first day of spring can certainly take a toll on mood and energy levels. Don't let the winter doldrums get you down. Lifting your spirits may be as easy as eating the right mood foods.
Carbs to the rescue
Yes, eat carbs. Carbohydrates trigger the release of serotonin, a hormone that reduces pain and regulates mood. Healthy carbohydrate foods that you should always keep on hand include whole grain breads and crackers, brown rice, cereal and fruits.
Tuh-may-toh or tuh-mah-toh?
No matter how you pronounce it, one thing is certain - canned tomatoes are an essential ingredient no pantry should be without. Studies show tomatoes - rich in vitamins and lycopene - provide a mood-improving energy boost, and may also help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancers.
Go a little nutty, without really losing it
The lull between lunch and the end of the work day can sometimes feel like an eternity, causing us to feel lethargic and irritable. Pull yourself out of the mid-afternoon slump with a handful of nuts or seeds, such as almonds, walnuts or sunflower seeds. The protein in nuts is perfect for a quick pick-me-up, and just a small handful packs a powerful punch of B6 vitamins - key nutrients in the creation of mood-enhancing serotonin to calm anxiety.
Nothing fishy about this
Tuna packs a tasty trifecta of nutrients - inflammation-reducing omega-3s, emotion-enhancing B vitamins and serotonin-increasing vitamin D. Tuna is a good source of lean protein, which helps to sharpen awareness and alertness.
Get moving
It is no surprise that most Americans spend a significant amount of time each day traveling to and from work, sitting at a desk, staring at a computer, and then settling down on the sofa to watch hours of television. But experts recommend that everyone should get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, which increases serotonin levels and gives you a natural high. Walking is one of the most efficient and effective forms of exercising - it relieves stress, lifts your mood, and helps you get a better night's sleep.
Avoid the crash
Eat small meals or snacks every few hours to avoid peaks and valleys in blood sugar, and maintain positive energy levels. When you start to feel like you are running on empty, resist the urge to reach for caffeine.
The most important thing is to set realistic, attainable goals and build activity and healthy eating into your daily routine. For more healthy eating tips to help boost your mood year-round, visit www.delmonte.com/solutions.
-Courtesy of ARAcontent-
Nicole Nielsen
Equity Real Estate
435-881-7803
nicolenielsen@live.com
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