June 2018 - Millenia Realty Dominica

Jun 29 No Comments

Defining a home with changing floor levels

Author: Marketing

Categories: building

The nature of a floor can influence the reflection of a home. The design and material can dictate the feeling of the room. A typical example of this is the Wide Pine Floor which offers a country look and feel. Do you know that having different floor levels can make a significant change to the look of a room or a home? Let’s look at areas with different floor levels in the home.

We use a local home which is actually for sale to demonstrate the use of different floor levels to separate the home.

Entry from one area to another, say from the kitchen to the living room, can be designed with two different levels which offers a different feel but with an almost seamless transition. The step up or down from one area signals to the user that they are moving into a new space which offers a different purpose or function. It can be designed in such a way that one achieves the effect of a dining room overlooking the living room or kitchen, or vice versa.

A difference in the colour of the two floors define the rooms further e.g. light wood floor in the living room and dark wood floor in the dining room. One can even go a step further in defining the room by appointing a different theme which will enhance the effects of the transition from one space to the next.

In a bedroom, there can be a change of floor levels which can divide the sleeping area from the work space. Similarly, there can be a step leading into the bathroom. This secludes the bathroom from the room and increases privacy to the place very often used to relax and luxuriate after a hard day of work.

A change in the floor level is a great way to separate spaces with the absence of walls, doors or other separators. Note however, if the separation of the floor levels is not done with proper planning and materials, the right flow through the home can be hindered or even create problems or be harmful to us.

What techniques do you rely on to define areas in your home?

Jun 28 No Comments

Simple steps to speed up your home loan process

Author: Marketing

Categories: buying

Are you searching for real estate? Do you have the money you need? As a potential home owner or just land or commercial building owner, you’re constantly looking for a property that matches your requirements. You also most likely need to obtain the funds to purchase the property from a local financial institution. Potential homebuyers often hear that mortgage lending process is tedious and difficult to qualify for.

One common hurdle homebuyers face is not knowing the size of the mortgage which they qualify for, the requirements for securing a mortgage and how long it takes to complete the borrowing process. In this article you’ll find out 6 ways to speed up the mortgage loan process.

Examine the different financial institutions to determine which is most reasonable for you. You will need to compare interest rates, criteria, fees and charges and very importantly, the deposit required.

Gather all relevant documents you may need. It is almost impossible for an individual to obtain a mortgage or any other loan without providing certain documents. Find out from the loan officer even before your first meeting what sort of documents they need from you. Some of the usual documents requested by the financial institutions are a letter of intent to sell, employment verification document, income statement or salary slip, average monthly expenditure, proof of asset(s) for down payment or security, etc.

There are some documents that you may not be able to provide at the moment and can only be obtained after you have found the home e.g a property valuation but it will be good to obtain the contact for a reputable valuer and get an idea of the fees that may be charged. Documents or information requested from the financial institution should be obtained as quickly as possible. Keeping the loan officer waiting on vital information from you means the loan application process is being held up.

Get pre-approved. This will allow you to have a clear idea of what size loan the bank will grant you. What the bank is comfortable loaning you may be a lot less than what you think you qualify for or a lot more than you are comfortable spending. At that point you and the loan officer could discuss what your best option is. Getting pre-approved also puts you in front of the race, meaning that a smart seller will go with the person who has been pre-approved for a mortgage.

Don’t be a stranger to your loan officer or your real estate agent. Keep in contact with them so that everyone is familiar with your case. You may be one of the first to receive information on any important changes.

Hold up on large purchases and avoid overspending before securing the house loan. Also, try to clear up outstanding debts. Clearing up smaller debts will reflect less commitment on your salary. Ensure that you are servicing all debts to the satisfaction of the creditor so you can provide a positive credit report, if required by your lender.

Mortgage financing has become an important tool in the economy and has made it possible for millions of persons to become proud owners of their property. If you decide to take advantage of it, do not let the process be staggered, if you can help.

Jun 27 No Comments

Add a Backsplash to Your Kitchen Remodel

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement

Kitchen backsplashes are easy-to-clean, vertical extensions to the kitchen countertops that protect the kitchen walls from being splattered with oil and food. They also prevent spilled liquids from leaking behind the kitchen cabinets. Installing a kitchen backsplash helps to keep the wall over the countertop dry and clean. A distinctive backsplash can also help a kitchen look great. It gives the room a finished quality.

When it comes to choosing a style for kitchen backsplash, you have myriad of options in front of you. If you have decided to remodel your kitchen, installing a tile backsplash is a great idea! Here are a few options available:-

Ceramic Tiles
One of the best backsplash tile ideas. Ceramic tiles are known for their durable and flexible nature, and hence, using these tiles for backsplash is the best way to improve the kitchen decor. Moreover, ceramic tiles are easy to clean, they come in a large variety of colors and patterns, they are available at an economic price range and you can install them anywhere on the kitchen wall, since they are easy to cut and fix. A large range of colors and patterns of ceramic tile backsplash designs, enable you to install a kitchen backsplash that will blend very well with pattern and colors of other kitchen components, which include, the wall, countertop and kitchen cabinets. Another advantage of using ceramic tiles is, ceramic tile backsplash installation is an easy Do-It-Yourself project and may not require professional help.

Glass Tiles
For a unique and exotic kitchen backsplash idea, installing glass tiles can be a good option. With the help of reflective and glossy surface of these glass tiles, you can give a splendid and sophisticated look to your kitchen decor. Some of the attractive features of these glass tiles are, non-porous and stain resistant. Due to the reflective and shiny nature of these glass tiles, these tiles can help to give an illusion of extra space for small kitchens. Using these tiles for kitchen backsplash will add brightness, and also make the kitchen look bigger. So, if you want to give a dramatic and unique look to your kitchen interior then you can certainly opt for these backsplash tiles. But, before that, make a note that glass tiles are a bit expensive, and you may have to pour some extra money for installing glass tile backsplash.

Tin Tiles
When you want to go for an economic backsplash along with easy installation, tin tiles can give you the best deal. Tin tiles, which are also referred as tin ceiling tiles, are durable, light weight and are available in a variety of designs, finishings and patterns. Black, silver, burgundy, white, golden are some of the colors available in tin tiles. These tiles can also be painted, and you can choose a color that goes well with other kitchen components. Installing these tin tiles for backsplash is quite easy and you need to simply nail these tiles in the wall. Hence, with these tin ceiling tiles and panels you can give a vintage look to your kitchen interior at an economic budget.

If you would have to choose one of the above types of tile backsplash options, which one would you choose and why?

Jun 26 No Comments

Interior design tips – Small bedroom arrangement

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement

When arranging the bedroom, consider the location of the doors and windows, the room’s dimension and the size of your furniture. The bed is most likely the largest piece of furniture in your bedroom, so you should probably start there. Try placing it on the wall opposite the bedroom’s door; it creates a pleasant view upon entering the room. You can also consider placing it along the room’s longest wall; most times there is one wall that is not interrupted by windows or doors.

If your closet is moveable, it should be placed using similar logics to the bed because of its size, appearance and frequency of usage.

Your dresser in usually the second largest furniture in the bedroom; if it can function as a television stand, place it across from the bed.

Still have space? A bedside table can be introduced. A lamp and other bedside necessities can rest on top of it and it can also be used for additional storage.

If there is still more space available, consider a desk and chair dressed with a mirror or office material where you can do a bit of work comfortably.

A small bench at the end of your bed would be ideal for short sits and appropriate for putting on shoes in the morning.

Jun 25 No Comments

Beautify and make the Foyer functional

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement

We are inside, and just entered the Foyer! Typically, it is a small hallway or open space at the main entrance of a building that acts as a reception area for visitors. In large buildings such as cinemas, concert halls, theatres etc. it is used like a lobby where users gather before and in between events. This architectural design element is used to welcome the guests into the house or apartment and often helps visitors orient themselves before moving into a specific room of the home.

The foyer is one area where function should take precedence over design. To create the perfect foyer, first think of how your family uses this area. You may use the space in a foyer for more than welcoming guests. Depending on its size and shape, your foyer can serve either of the following multiple functions in addition to providing pleasant aesthetics.

Reception Area

Create a warm and inviting reception area for guests as well as yourself. A freestanding wood or metal coat rack provides a spot to hang jackets, coats, hats and scarves. Some coat racks incorporate a stand for umbrellas. Situate a console/wall table against a wall to place books, papers, purses and other items upon entering your home. A vase of fresh flowers sitting atop the table adds an inviting touch. Hang a decorative mirror above the console to quickly check your appearance. Make a dramatic impression by suspending a sparkling chandelier overhead.

Sitting Area

A foyer can provide an ideal spot to sit. Situate a small bench, chair or ottoman against a wall to supply a seat while you’re slipping on shoes or making a quick phone call. Placing a phone in this area is convenient so you can easily answer the telephone on your way in or out of the house. Large foyers can accommodate more spacious, plusher seating, such as a pair of armchairs with an accent table positioned between them. This sitting area is convenient if you have a visitor that you would rather not enter further into your home or does not need to do so, like door to door salesmen. Add a table or floor lamp to provide illumination for reading or writing. A small settee or comfortable chaise lounge provides alternative seating options. Situate toss pillows in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes atop a settee or chaise to add color, comfort and texture.

Storage
Use your foyer as a well-designed storage area. For example, construct an attractive built-in bench with storage cabinets and drawers hidden below the seat. Situate a decorative chest of drawers, armoire, bookcase or dresser against a foyer wall to provide visual interest and additional storage space so that you can store items that you commonly need when leaving your home. Set a small tray or bowl atop a table for keys, wallets and other small items. You also may place a sofa table adjacent to a wall, tucking large woven storage baskets underneath. Floating shelves attached to the wall supply a storage area without taking up additional floor space. Storage ottomans provide convenient seating and a hidden place for items.

Jun 22 No Comments

Get your credit rating up, to get that mortgage!

Author: Marketing

Categories: buying

A good credit rating/score is an essential part of getting a mortgage loan. The only way to establish good credit is to actually start buying on credit. This is the only way to establish a credit history which reveals your ability to pay for things that you buy or use. If you have never taken a loan before or have not taken anything on credit before, now may be the time to do so if you intend to get a mortgage loan sometime in the future.

Stay put to help your credit rating and make it easier to get a mortgage.

Changing jobs often will make you seem unstable and risky. Employment continuity is paramount. Ideally, lenders are looking for someone who has had the same job for a number of years. Having had two employers in 3 years need not be that detrimental. If the job change is to get more pay, it will usually not cause any problems, though you really want to have been in your new job for a few months before applying for new credit. Remember, lenders often ask to see the last couple of months pay slips when applying for a loan.

Being a consistent saver helps your credit rating and makes it easier to get a mortgage.

Lenders see bank accounts as signs of financial stability and consistent savings behavior. You shouldn’t, however, just open accounts left and right, as this makes you look bad rather than good. Just have more than one and make sure that there’s money in each of them.

Handling a credit card responsibly helps your credit rating and makes it easier to get a mortgage.

Choose a card that offers the lowest interest rate and if possible one that offers a cash back percentage on purchases you make. Paying your credit card automatically helps your credit rating and makes it easier to get a mortgage. Set up automatic payments with your credit card company and/or bank. Most credit cards will allow you to set up automatic withdrawals from your checking account every month to pay for your credit card. This way, you won’t risk forgetting about your payments and registering as a late payer, dropping your credit score.

Jun 21 No Comments

Country Living

Author: Marketing

Categories: building,buying

In Dominica and probably other places in the world there seems to be a large percentage of persons interested in living in the city despite it’s over crowdedness and noise pollution. We boast about the natural beauty of our country Dominica but are we really enjoying it? If you travel a bit around the country you will notice that this natural beauty is more apparent in the rural areas. City life has its advantages such as easier access to educational and other facilities however the improvement in infrastructure and technology makes access to these facilities effortless. If you are thinking of buying land or building or even if you already have a home in the town or close to it, it will be good to consider having a countryside home. Here are some benefits to consider:

Privacy and Serenity – Live in the town area? Ever found it necessary to drive far from your home to get some peace? It is also almost impossible to step outside without being seen by other people or even seeing people. – Living in the country side gives you the gift of privacy and absence of noise which allows you to concentrate, meditate and rest peacefully. Imagine if you are preparing for exams or recovering from a medical procedure, this would be perfect.

Rejuvenation – The fresh air and a bit of warmth from the sun especially after a long day of work is very refreshing and revitalizing. Our body takes in more oxygen and this transforms into a healthier body and greater energy; clean air obviously is one of the main advantages of country life. You also get to really enjoy nature; waking up to the singing of birds and the breathtaking mountain and forest views.

Space – We know one thing that is lacking in the town is space. Most of the spaces are used for commercial purposes and because of that we have very limited space for public functions, recreational and leisure activities. – With the space afforded in the country side, children can play outdoor games or learn to ride a bicycle, rather than devoting so many hours to computer games. They have a lot of personal space that allows them to play comfortably which may not be possible at public playgrounds which I see is very scarce in Dominica.

Cost – It is no secret that land in the urban area is far more expensive than in the rural area e.g. 10,000 square feet of land near the town may cost the same or even more than an acre (43,560 square feet) of land in the countryside.

Self sustenance – Complementary to saving on cost of land and the ability to own larger portions of land is the savings on the cost of food. If you are not very interested in growing provisions and fruits you have the option to maintain a small vegetable garden in your back yard or even at the front. Some persons may be fortunate to purchase land that is already cultivated with crops. This food could be grown for your own consumption and you may have the option to earn extra income from the excess.

Security – In the rural area, people tend to be more caring and concerned for their neighbours, so you will find that neighbours keep an eye on each other’s property creating a strong, friendly, active community where crime is less likely to happen.

You should note that the design of your home can greatly influence your life. A home with environmental conscientiousness in its design and décor and energy conservation practices will make this experience, ‘your life’ more fulfilling. Ensure that your home is designed to take advantage of magnificent views of the surrounding natural environment and benefit from the natural air flow.

Jun 20 No Comments

Porch, Balcony, Veranda, Patio and Deck – which one do you have space for?

Author: Marketing

Categories: building

With outdoor living gaining a lot of popularity, people all across the globe have now started constructing outdoor domestic spaces, which can be used for several purposes. Depending upon the availability of the space, there are various types of spaces, which can be constructed. These include porch, balcony, veranda, patio and deck. However, people tend to get confused between these as they are quite similar and tend to use them as synonyms.

Porch – A porch is basically an attached section to the house which is open to the outside air and is covered with a roof. It is usually at the street level, and a house can feature a front porch as well as a back porch. In addition, porch is usually employed as a living space and people use it for casual seating purposes.

Balcony– A balcony is a small platform that protrudes from a wall of an upper apartment floor and is usually enclosed by a railing. It must be clarified that unlike the patio, balcony is not at the street level. A balcony is usually never employed as a social space, but is basically designed for outdoor ambience purpose.

Veranda – A veranda is typically an open, large, long gallery, usually covered with a roof and supported by pillars. It must be mentioned that in most of the cases, verandas usually extend equally on all the sides of the structure. Verandas are usually associated with large and expensive homes, and may be used as a living space also.

Patio – A patio is a roofless paved area adjoined to the house and usually employed for entertainment and dining purposes. It must be mentioned that the open air living space is at the ground level and is usually made out of slate, cement, stone or a combination of the materials. Besides few furniture pieces, plants and few water decorative elements are also introduced in the patio.

Jun 19 No Comments

Blue Prints / House Plans

Author: Marketing

Categories: buying

Many years ago house plans were done as a set of Blueprints, pages with white lines and lettering on a dark blue background. Today, house plans are printed on large format digital printers but are still referred to as Blueprints. They are often provided in five or eight sets. The Government Planning Authority will often require at least three sets of plans, and the bank may require one if the person intends to secure funding from them. The builder will also need a set of plans and it is always wise to keep a copy for reference.

With the continuous increase in technology, plans are now available in Portable Document Format (PDF) and Computer Aided Design (CAD), which allows plans to be quickly delivered by email. One of the important advantages of using a PDF package is that it allows for the plans to be emailed to builders thus avoiding the printing of extra sets which saves time and cost in relation to distribution for bids etc. CAD on the other hand, although it may be more expensive, allows changes to be made easily.

Plans are used to obtain building permits from the local government and are also used to show a builder exactly how that particular house should be constructed. Plans usually focus on the architecture and the building itself and don’t include information on the building’s finishing.

A house plan should include:

Exterior Elevations which illustrates the drawings of the exterior of the home and includes details of the windows, doors, wall heights, roof pitches and ridge heights etc.;
Drawing of the Floor Plan which is usually regarded as most important – It shows how different spaces relate to each other;
Drawing of the Foundation Plan which provides details and illustrations of the foundation of the house and includes all the structural beams and footings to support the floor(s) above;
Drawing of the Building Section and Details which illustrate the relationship between the different levels and areas of a home as well as construction details; and
The plan of the roof as well as general notes and details such as building codes.

Careful planning now will go a long way towards making your home special and convenient for you and your family.

Jun 18 No Comments

Using an Architect Can Save Time and Money

Author: Marketing

Categories: building

Canadian architect, Etienne Gaboury, once said, “Architecture is space structured to serve man & to move him.” “To serve man” implies that architectural design creates a useful living space, while “to move him,” refers to the art of the design, which makes a particular building unique, colorful, and worthy of living inside.

A trained architect will take a client’s wish & analyze it in conjunction with their needs, lifestyle & their long term plans. Careful consideration of a family’s future size & goals will yield positive results when designing a home.

Throughout the process the architect may offer the family constructive choices which may save them money in the long run ultimately helping to offset the architectural fees.

Often time home owners and builders believe it will be cheaper to draw up their own plans but the cost of inefficient floor plan layout can be very serious.

Architects may ease the stress involved in the construction process by acting as project managers & construction supervisors and some may even take it a step further, like we do at Millenia LDC, and take on the construction project.

When you consider building your home, consult an architect about the benefits you can gain from using his service. The consultation most likely will be free and it will definitely be valuable to you.