June 2018 - Page 2 of 3 - Millenia Realty Dominica

Jun 15 No Comments

10 Tips for Hiring a Contractor

Author: Marketing

Categories: building,home improvement

Give considerable thought to the individual or business you will hire to perform your construction or related projects. Pay particular attention to contractors offering their services at a considerably lower price – while you may save a few dollars at the time, you may end up paying a lot more over the life of the service or product.

Talk to more than one specialist, this will allow you to develop a better understanding of the process. Knowledge gives power to negotiate.

If you know you need to renovate or extend your building, don’t wait until the problem gets worst to get estimates and select a contractor e.g.if you know you need a new roof then don’t wait until you have water coming in from your second floor ceiling.

Do a bit of research. If you have a friend who is more knowledgeable than yourself, invite them to take a look. This allows you to give the contractor more specific information or details about the problem.

Past clients or projects are a great way to learn about contractors and their capability. So go ahead and ask a neighbor or a friend for recommendations, look for completed jobs in the neighborhood. Now-a-days it’s all out there on the internet, check business websites to see their profile of completed jobs.

Yes I am part of a company that provides construction services but I will still go ahead and say it – negotiate fiercely and make it clear to the contractor that you are looking for the best quality job at the best possible price. Remember, you are in charge and it’s your project and money so demand a great end product/service at a great price. It’s not always true that you have to pay ridiculous prices for great work but it is expected that the best quality work will come at a bit higher cost.

Obtain and review at least three written estimates to compare what a job should cost. Once this is done, you’ll have a sense of which contractor to use. Meet with the contractor again, at this point discuss any other qualms you may have with his estimate.

Of course get everything in writing.

After selecting a contractor, stay close to them; check the work and ask questions. A good contractor would know to keep the customer updated with work progress by submitting reports at agreed intervals and will seek permission before making any deviations from the original plans.

If at the end of the project the contractor has done a great job ask for some business cards and pass around to friends and family.

Jun 14 No Comments

Add Value to Your Home

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement,selling

The saying goes, “First impressions are lasting ones.” Most, if not all of us, have heard this common saying which simply means that people will remember the way you appear when you first meet them, so it is important to look and act your best when you meet someone for the first time. While a property valuation provides an opinion of how much a property is worth, prospective buyers tend to value properties based on what they see and not just based on facts and figures. This can greatly hinder the sale of a property because even if a property is listed below market value, if it does not look appealing to prospects, they may shy away from the opportunity to own a potentially remarkable property.

It is therefore worthwhile for a seller to ensure that their property looks almost flawless, if not flawless, so that its appearance can match or even exceed its selling price or value. We share a few simple improvements that can help any property be more alluring to prospective buyers.

While you may not be financially able to take on major renovations, especially if you are trying to spend as little as possible before putting the property on the market, these few simple upgrades can help a seller in getting a sale.

In the kitchen, installing countertops made from engineered stone or granite, can easily improve the aesthetic appeal of the space. Simple details such as replacing cabinet knobs or installing a new faucet for the sink can make a big difference. If you desire a bigger change consider knocking down a full or half wall to connect the kitchen to a living room to provide a more spacious feel.
In the bathroom, consider having the toilet and vanity replaced. A toilet that looks old or does not work properly is a turn-off. If you can’t afford purchasing a new toilet or the current one is still in working condition simply have it thoroughly cleaned and or replace the seat. This should make it appear as good as new. Similarly to the kitchen simple things can make a difference. Removing rust stains, updating doorknobs and cabinet knobs, and replacing faucets can make the bathroom look more welcoming.
You do not have to consider undergoing major repairs or a complete renovation to improve your home. Simply things such as repair of plumbing leaks, replacement of worn out rain gutters, replacement or repair of broken windows can go a long way in making a property more appealing. Investing in maintenance and repairs is not only moneywise, prospective buyers tend to focus on what needs to be fixed and use these to justify negotiating a lower price.
Repaint the interior walls with neutral colors such as beige, ivory, taupe, black, gray or shades of white which will make the rooms appear lighter and bigger.

Were the above tips useful? Share this article with family and friends. If you need any clarification on this topic, feel free to email us at feedback@millenia.dm.

Jun 14 No Comments

Carpet To The Rescue!

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement

Carpet is a practical, fashionable, and versatile choice of flooring. Carpet offers you several advantages that other flooring options can’t compete with such as the following:-

Warmth – Carpet is the best choice you can make for your bedroom, family room, and other areas where you need warmth underfoot.

Safety – Carpet offers a slip resistant surface that will prevent accidents along with a natural cushion in the event of someone falling. For young children and the elderly, this is very important.

Reduction in sound – Carpet will also reduce noise better than any other type of flooring. Carpet works to dampen noise in three ways:
– Reduces surface noise from foot traffic
– Absorbs airborne sound
– Blocks transmission of sound
These qualities are valuable in apartments as well as semi-detached homes.

Surface – Adding carpet to a room can also disguise any existing damage to the floor and also hide any other problems such as warped floors.

Easy to care for – The carpets of today are more stain resistant than they have ever been in the past, which makes cleaning even the worst possible spills easier than ever.

Clean air – Research has proven that carpet can indeed improve the quality of air by trapping allergy causing dust and allergens if it is properly cleaned and maintained.

Variety of use – Carpets aren’t only for floors anymore, which is a really great thing. You can easily add carpet to steps, stairs, walls, posts, and other non level surfaces, without having to worry about it slipping, lifting, or buckling.

Flexibility – Carpet is the primary foundation in almost any room. Because it is available in a variety of different colors and textures, it helps to create an unlimited number of possibilities for decorating. From the neutral tones to rich solids, carpet is the first step you can take to make your home look better than ever.

Low cost – Carpet doesn’t cost a lot of money, as it offers an economical alternative to the other types of expensive flooring. Even with professional installation, you won’t pay near as much as you would for hard surfaces. Unlike hard surfaces, carpet can keep you comfortable if you decide to lay down on it.

Life span – The carpets of today are very durable and can outlast most other types of flooring available on the market. All you have to do is select a type of carpet that has a life span of 5 – 30 years or more, which is very common now a days.

Jun 13 No Comments

Earl Learns As He Gets His Home Valued

Author: Marketing

Categories: buying,selling

Several years after Earl Seraphine moved from one part of Dominica to the other, he decided to sell one of his homes since he had no plans to move back and thought that the proceeds from the sale of the house would be of greater use at the time. In the process of listing his home with the real estate agent he was asked the value of his home. This was a question he just couldn’t answer factually since he had never done a valuation before and the understanding of valuation theory and methodology is not commonplace. He started doing some research and fortunately found a competent and generous valuator who explained the importance of valuations and some of the different techniques used to prepare a valuation.

He learnt that there are several methodologies used for property valuations, three of the most common ones are Comparable Sales Method, Income Approach Method and Cost Approach Method.

The Comparable Sales Method compares the subject property with other similar properties in its vicinity to estimate the value of the subject property. In addition to the location, this analysis examines characteristics such as the size, conditions, available utility, building regulations, business climate etc. Not very often the property being valued has few comparative elements or may be unique. In such circumstances the less comparable elements would be estimated differently to ensure accuracy.

The Income Approach is more suitable for income generating properties because it allows investors to estimate the value of the property based on the income it produces or is expected to produce. This would be useful for a buyer to determine if a property is a profitable investment. The estimated income is discounted using the discounted cash flow model to determine the present value of the property.

The cost approach investigates the cost component of the property and this includes the cost of the land as if vacant, plus cost of construction. Depreciation based on the age of the property is thereafter deducted. It is said that the value is more accurate for new buildings.

It is important to note that there is no perfect method to value real estate never-the-less whether buying a home, selling one, using it as security or making improvements, knowing its worth is fundamental.

Earl having made the decision to sell one of his houses would want to ensure that he receives the value that his property is worth. He could use the valuation as a guideline to price the property so that he can catch some home shoppers’ interest.

As a potential buyer a valuation is crucial to ensure that the amount asked for is not considerably higher than the actual value. It is a pre-requisite in the property transfer process as the valuation is needed by the bank if the buyer is taking a mortgage. It also forms part of the transfer documents to be submitted to the local registry. It may also show that the buyer has done some homework and gives both parties grounds upon which they can negotiate a final price.

A valuation provides one with valuable information such as whether the price for a property is exaggerated or not and would give a seller a realistic price to market his property. It is generally recommended that persons do not purchase property without first doing an assessment. Likewise, it is good practice to value a property before putting it on the market.

Jun 12 No Comments

The Kitchenette

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement

We are indoors and using the kitchenette. The term “kitchenette” describes a small cooking area in an apartment or hotel that gives users some of the flexibility of a kitchen without using nearly as much space. Kitchenettes typically take up no more than a single wall, and often occupy only a corner. They are designed for efficiency and space conservation. Most of the time, a kitchenette will have a small refrigerator, a microwave, and a sink. Larger kitchenettes may also have one or two burners, or even a small oven.

A kitchenette may also be referred to as a small kitchen, a compact kitchen, or a mini kitchen. The idea behind most kitchenettes is to give users the ability to cook, prepare, and store food without impeding on an otherwise limited space. Traditional kitchens can take up an entire room, but that simply is not practical when space is at a premium. Kitchenettes are very popular in studio apartments, particularly in dense urban areas where every square foot matters — and is expensive. Hotels may also feature kitchenettes. A full kitchen would not usually be practical in a hotel room, but a kitchenette is often a desirable amenity for guests who plan to stay for a few days. This hotel feel amenity has been transferred to bedrooms in private homes to make it convenient for a bedtime snack or romantic dinners and drinks.

They are useful for large homes, particularly those with live-in arrangements for child care or housekeepers, or when several families share a single space. Multiple full kitchens could be excessive, but smaller spaces in which to cook may be quite useful. An upstairs kitchenette, for instance, can be a place for a nanny to prepare meals away from the main kitchen. A kitchenette located in a bar area or television room can also be a convenient place to store and fix snacks.

Depending on the location and primary function, kitchenettes can be built into a space, or can be pre-made elsewhere and simply installed. Many commercial kitchen supply stores offer pre-manufactured kitchenette units, often sold as a single piece with many parts. Kitchenette design can range from the truly elaborate to the starkly efficient. However, builders must generally check the governing codes before deciding to add a kitchenette.

Jun 11 No Comments

Tips to a Well-organized Kitchen

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement

The kitchen is the heart of the home and it needs to be well-organized. A kitchen with things out of place gives a feeling of discomfort and may slow down your activities. So let’s see how we can clear out and clean up.

Get started:-

Stand back and take a long look at your kitchen. Would a helpful guest know where, logically, to locate a spatula, frying pan, blender or serving tray? Is there enough counter space for prep work? Is there wasted space – above wall cabinets or in the corners of base cabinets, for example – that can be used to add more storage?

Clear the kitchen in stages. Start with your wall cabinets then empty base cabinets, pantry and refrigerator.

Examine every item; get rid of anything you don’t use regularly or haven’t touched in a year(s). Usable items that you don’t want should be given away to a local charity; toss anything opened, damaged or past its use-by date.

Clean the refrigerator and storage cabinets thoroughly. Consider painting cabinet and drawer interiors in a high-gloss tone or giving them a coat of polyurethane if made of wood so they can be wiped clean easily.

Put back only items you know you will use, and organize according to where you are likely to use them – spices, utensils and cookware near your stove or cooktop, for example.

Here are some useful organizing tips:-

-Insert or add additional shelves to cabinets to increase storage capacity.

-Use drawer dividers or in-drawer trays to organize silverware and other eating utensils.

-Designate a place for every category of item so you know ahead of time where something is going so it does not spend time taking up needed counter space.

-Utilize any wasted/unused space above wall cabinets or in the corners of base cabinets.

-Only leave those appliances that are generally used on a daily basis on the counter unless if they have dedicated storage space in a location which is convenient for their use.

-Ensure that a practical method of refuse, disposal and storage is being used.

-Make sure nothing is placed in a position where it blocks electrical outlets.

Jun 08 No Comments

Try Your Hand at a Vegetable Garden

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement

A vegetable garden in the yard does not only provide savings on your food bill; it increases the appeal of your property and may just set your home apart from the competition.

Not only is vegetable gardening a great way to get fresh organically grown vegetables, but it is also a great way to get fresh air and exercise. Below you will find some great vegetable gardening tips and vegetable gardening basics that can help you get started.

– Choose the location of a vegetable garden

4 things to consider when choosing the location for a vegetable garden: – Convenience – Sun – Drainage – Soil type

– Choose the vegetables to grow

The most popular vegetables in vegetable gardening are: Cabbage, Radishes, Winter squash, Carrots, Lettuce, Beans, Summer squash, Cucumbers, Peppers and Tomatoes.

There are many, many more. If you are just starting out with backyard vegetable gardening, you may want to choose 2 or 3 and grow those until you get the hang of keeping a vegetable garden.

– Make your vegetable garden layout

For most vegetables, there is no set spot you need to put them in the garden but many vegetables do need a certain amount of space to do well. It is helpful to make a plan/layout that will help you make sure that you have enough space for all the vegetables you have chosen.

– Prepare the soil in your vegetable garden

Probably the most important piece of vegetable gardening advice is before you plant a single thing in the ground; make sure that the soil in your chosen vegetable garden location is as good as it can be.

If you have clay soil, then spend some time amending clay soil. Have your soil tested. Make sure that the soil’s pH is correct, and if you need to lower the pH or raise the pH, take time to do that. Fix any deficiencies with:
• Nitrogen
• Potassium
• Phosphorus

And anything else that the soil test indicates that you may need in the soil.

Backyard vegetable gardening is not scary. You can do it! In no time at all, you will be proudly serving your own home grown vegetables.

Jun 07 No Comments

Outdoor Living Space Raises Selling Potential

Author: Marketing

Categories: building,home improvement,selling

On many properties there is valuable living space that is left under-utilized, and it’s typically found outside. Often the outside area that could be converted into a creative living space is larger than the largest space inside the home. Maximizing the comfort of your home includes the use of available outdoor space.

When someone visits your home, they first see the outdoors, the surroundings. Their impression of you and your home begins outside. It would be wise that in the planning stages of the construction of your home that the building be located in an area that would maximize the usage potential of the outside of the home.

At these early stages, a vision for the outdoor space should be considered in order to minimize the cost of any future outdoor projects since the grounds of your home will already be fashioned to suit that vision. Besides the visual effect of a well designed outdoor space and manicured grounds, an outdoor living space will increase your living area and allow for much needed fresh air and sunlight that is not available on the inside. For those who entertain, outdoor space will reduce the traffic and wear on the interior of your home.

Investing in an outdoor room adds resale value to your property. A homebuyer would be more interested in your home that offers this feature. Here are a few tips to help you plan an outdoor space:

Figure out which rooms have the best potential for access to the outside. You’ll want to consider how high the floor is off the ground, how you will keep your privacy, how much deck, patio or terrace space is available, which area the sun will affect the most and at what time, and how the space will relate to the rest of your yard or garden.
Once you choose where the doors will be, do a floor plan and put together a list of functional requirements. Do you want a deck with room for outdoor dining? A vegetable or flower garden? Hot tub? Arrange the elements you choose with regards to everything you considered in step one.
Plan the central area to be as big as an actual room – minimum 12 square feet, but not larger than 20 square feet. The shape should probably be square or rectangular. It is better if you stay away from long narrow spaces that surround the house. Furniture won’t fit there well so it won’t be used.
Keep the steps leading from raised decks and terraces as wide as possible, at least six feet. Keeping a full width on multiple sides of the deck will create a smooth transition to ground level.
Get creative with your paving materials to create different functioning areas. Also try incorporating different levels in the space. By adding benches, planters or other permanent features each area of your outdoor space will have its own identity.

Whether or not you have plans to sell, using these tips will help you transform the look and comfort of your home!

Jun 06 No Comments

Green Roof – Preserving Green Space

Author: Marketing

Categories: building

Development of urban areas often leads to degradation of natural green space and wildlife habitat and open space is being lost at an alarming rate. The addition of a green roof to an unused area on a building can help preserve the green space and is beneficial to the surrounding environment. There are also social, economic and environmental benefits to green roofs.

During heavy rainfalls green roof slows down the flow of water by retaining up to 75% of the rain water avoiding problems such as water pollution caused when rain water runoff from galvanize and concrete rooftops.

Plants naturally cool their surrounding environments while dark roofs can help bring down the overall temperature, therefore more green roofs means a cooler environment.

Some of the most desirable neighborhoods are near green park space. Green roofs are visually stimulating and can make great areas for recreation and pleasure. Converting roof space into green park space can provide that desirable feeling and can also increase the value of a property by providing a valuable building asset that makes the building more marketable and saleable.

Added benefits of green roofs are that they improve the air quality by absorbing and converting carbon dioxide to oxygen and the soil and plants are an effective sound insulator.

Green roofs are a very innovative technology and provide many benefits to the environment. They are now being accepted as an important part of sustainable construction and climatic change adaptation, which is very important. Today many new developments are having green roofs installed as part of their designs.

Jun 05 No Comments

4 Tips to Protect Your Home this Hurricane Season

Author: Marketing

Categories: home improvement

The 2017 Atlantic Hurricane season has been described as a hyperactive and catastrophic season, ending with seventeen (17) named storms, ten (10) hurricanes and six (6) major hurricanes causing damage and destruction to several countries including Dominica. This year’s hurricane season is also expected to be above average estimating between one to four major hurricanes.

While we may not have the power to guarantee the safety of our homes and loved ones during a storm or hurricane there are measures we can take to help.

1) Build a strong roof. Losing the roof exposes the interior of the home to hurricane force winds, rain and flying debris and in certain circumstances the structure of the home may be affected once the roof has been detached so it is extremely important that proper building codes and guidelines are followed during the construction process. While there is no 100% guarantee that the roof will remain intact, following the right guidelines increases the likelihood that it will. Metal tie-down straps can also be used to keep roof rafters tied to the top wall of your home and make it more difficult for them to be uplifted.

2) Protect your windows against strong winds and flying debris. Consider investing in hurricane-resistant windows made of impact resistant glass. Similar to car windows, hurricane-resistant windows has two layers with a tough inter layer in the center which holds glass in place in case it breaks. Although they are very costly they offer greater protection and as an added bonus block out 99% of transmitted ultraviolet light. A more cost effective measure that can be taken is the installation of shutters that can be locked to protect glass window panes.

3) Strong, stable, doors are essential to protecting your home against high winds. You need to be certain that the doors will remain closed, and that they are able to handle direct impact of flying debris. Consider upgrading your external doors to impact resistant fiberglass doors that will not rot or split like wooden doors or dent or rust or like steel doors. To protect glass doors you should consider using impact resistant glass. Protection boards can also be added for reinforcement.

4) Keep your yard free of debris that may become potential projectiles. Prior to a hurricane or tropical storm ensure that nearby trees are pruned and that cut / fallen branches are nowhere near the home. Trimming tree branches also helps prevent trees from being uprooted by allowing strong winds to flow through with ease. If you have any outdoor furniture in your backyard, porch, etc. place them inside the home or in a cellar where they cannot be blown away.

While there is no guarantee that the home will be fully protected after implementing these or any other methods of protection, it is wise to do whatever is possible to improve the chance of safeguarding your home and the lives of your family.