Palmetto Tile
Q: What is a common mistake people make when remodeling their shower?
A: While a lot of energy is spent selecting the perfect tile and layout, people often do not consider which waterproofing and installation materials to use. Whether your tile costs $2/square foot or $200/square foot, if you do not invest in proper waterproofing materials, you could be facing a tear out of your beautiful new shower within months of installation. Having a contractor educated in proper waterproofing techniques and materials is imperative. Have questions? Seek a knowledgeable pro-fessional to explain proper waterproofing techniques and materials to help make you feel comfortable and educated about this investment in your home. The goal is for you to love your new bathroom for years to come.
Capital Kitchen
and Bath
Q: We are considering a kitchen remodel — what tips can you give me?
A: Make a list of goals, special equipment needs, and wants for your newly-designed kitchen. Consider who will be using the space, how long you plan to live in your home, and what your style might be. A well thought-out design will leave you with a remodeled space that makes logistical, emotional, and financial sense.
Dunbar Builders
Q: What is the difference between a custom home builder and a semi-custom builder?
A: A custom home builder works with you to design and build your dream home. The process starts with a meeting on your lot, then continues with planning a home that meets your specific needs, vision, and budget. Custom home builders usually have long-standing relationships with trusted subcontractors who can create exactly what’s in your mind. A semi-custom builder may be able to provide some of these things but tends to have limited options and experience that it takes to build a true custom home.
Gateway
Q: What are the benefits in having a steam shower in your home?
A: Adding steam to your personal shower not only gives your bathroom a spa-like experience but also has many amazing health benefits. Steam can provide relaxation and it helps improve your body. Steam can help improve breathing, better skin, emotional balance, and fewer aches and pains. Steam is an incredible resource that you can add to your home to help your wellness. It’s as simple as this: steam makes you feel good plus adds value to your body and to your home.
Hay Hill Services
Q: What is the new backyard trend?
A: Artificial turf! Everyone wants a perfect yard, but maintaining a perfect yard takes a lot of time, money, and effort. For its clean, crisp look, year-round color, low maintenance, shade/heat tolerance, pet friendly, and bug/pest-free qualities, homeowners all around Columbia are installing artificial turf. Artificial turf can’t solve all of your problems, but it can help with a lot of them!
Home Advantage Realty
Q: How do I get my home ready for marketing?
A: Making your home its most appealing is key to a prompt sale. Here is a simple three-step formula:
1. Boost curb appeal. Clean siding, trim, porches, windows; freshen mulch; add a pot or two of seasonal flowers.
2. Clear clutter fully and deep clean; donate unneeded items to local charities.
3. Introduce freshness by placing live plants in strategic rooms of the home including kitchen, living spaces, and baths.
Palmetto Construction and Renovations
Q: Should I consider adding a kitchen to my outdoor living area?
A: Outdoor kitchens remain a top priority for our clients. If planned properly, these can add to the overall enjoyment and functionality of a new or existing space. Charcoal smokers, gas grills, gas burners, and griddles are very popular right now. Often these are combined with stainless steel cabinet accessories such as trashcan pullouts and drawer units, as well as beverage refrigerators or ice makers. Outdoor kitchens offer flexibility and ultimately become an inviting extension of your home — great for entertaining guests or cozy meals with family and friends.
Spray Net
Q: What’s the most cost-effective way to update my kitchen?
A: Changing the color of kitchen cabinets, which are the primary focus of the room, can make all the difference between a kitchen you can’t stand and one you love standing in. Painting your kitchen cabinets is cheaper than replacing them, takes as little as two days, and will completely transform the look and feel of the most important room in your home.
S & G Builders
Q: What are some things to consider when planning to update kitchen appliances without a complete remodel?
A: Putting new appliances in the existing cabinetry can be challenging but easily accomplished if you do a little homework. Locate the model and serial number plate on your current model. If it is difficult to see, take a photo to enlarge the print. Enter the model number into the search box on the manufacturer’s website to locate the specifications of the product being updated. Specifications are usually located under “Manuals and Downloads” and can be saved directly to your mobile device. Knowing the model number of the unit being replaced saves time and prevents the costly mistake of purchasing a product that does not fit your cabinetry.
Sox and Freeman
Q: Is there such a thing as a “bad tree?”
A: If you have asked yourself if a particular tree in your landscape is a bad tree, you should ask yourself these questions. First, is it causing any structural damage? Second, what benefits am I gaining? Third, does this tree pose any risk to individuals or my property? If you have trouble answering any of those questions, you should consult with an ISA Certified Arborist.
Ace Glass
Q: My new car has a broken windshield. What do I do?
A: To keep up with the changes in the industry, many local glass companies have chosen to invest in the equipment used to recalibrate windshields with cameras, including extensive training and certification in the operation of the equipment. That way, you can have your windshield replaced and recalibrated at the same time! No more making two appointments at two different places!
The Art of Real Estate
Q: Heading into the summer market, what advice would you give to buyers and sellers?
A: I would tell buyers two things: first, with inventory remaining at historic lows: “Date the rate, and marry the house.” Don’t let interest rates dictate your purchase. If you find the house you love, you can always refinance later. Second, we are not in the market of low-ball offers yet. You need to make competitive offers if you are serious about the house; multiple offers are still out there. For sellers, it is more important than ever that you price your house correctly — no more shooting for the moon! Get a professional to help you interpret the market to price your home. Doing so greatly increases your chances of getting a full price offer.
