remodel – Orange County Real Estate

Return on a Kitchen Remodel

August 9, 2021September 14, 2021Jackie Gibbins

I recently spoke with a long-time client of mine about a kitchen remodel they were contemplating. She wanted to know what kind of return she would get on her investment of a complete kitchen remodel. I told her she could expect about 98%, but it could be more!

If you were able to do some of the work yourself or maybe refurbish the cabinets rather than replace, you most likely would get that 100% return.

I also think it has a lot to do with size of home, and even the area where the home is located. If you have a larger home, and live in a more upscale area, you would most likely get more than the 98% return on your complete kitchen remodel, in my opinion. Buyers of those larger, more expensive homes, expect a beautiful updated kitchen. And they are usually willing to pay extra for it.

Naturally, the remodel has to be functional as well as beautiful. Installing a small range in a large chef’s kitchen won’t make sense. Likewise, you would want to install a vent/hood that will definitely do the job over a large six-burner range. And don’t skimp on cupboard and storage space! Making mistakes like this in a remodel can be costly when it comes time to resell.

Nothing is wrong with style or adding personal touches in a kitchen, but it must be functional first! The kitchen is usually the heart of the home, and being functional is key to longevity in your remodel. Trends and styles can come and go, but function and usability are forever.

Beautiful Baths That are Also Practical

July 20, 2019July 22, 2019Jackie Gibbins

When I updated my bathrooms, there were many decisions to be made. Some practical, some aesthetic and some both! I

I wanted baths that:

looked great
were easy to clean
had lots of storage
and wouldn’t need updating again any time soon

Using larger tiles in the surround that need less grout are very practical. Installing new, easy to clean and functional tubs will last years! Installing good size and multiple shampoo boxes was a good decision with huge payoffs.

You don’t need a lot of glass tile to make an impact, especially in small spaces. I kept things neutral and used natural surfaces for warmth and a timeless look.

I also made some practical decisions like using fans on timers and sensors. I installed custom shelves and drawers where there was once a clumsy old-fashioned closet.

Make sure to install the right size of towel bars, storage cubbies, etc. And make them handy and strong for every day use by all members of the family.

But it all starts with a good contractor. Interview several and check their references! And while you wait for your contractor to come available, research your surfaces and fixture choices and make sure you are happy with your vision of your new bath.

Quick, Cheap and Easy Fixes That Add Value to Your Home

April 11, 2018September 7, 2018Jackie Gibbins

Can’t or don’t want to do a complete home remodel but want an updated look? I almost always suggest these quick, inexpensive fixes that make a big impact, add lots of value and can look great!

In the Bath: Change out the faucet for something sleek and modern and then add matching drawer and cabinet pulls. While you are at it, install a new towel bar and toilet paper holder. Have a little extra cash? A new water-saving toilet adds value and SAVES money! Switching out a dated light fixture adds instant style and beauty. I get lots of comments from buyers saying they hate those older light fixtures.

In the Kitchen: If you have dated or worn cabinets, painting them will bring them up to date as will new drawer and cabinet pulls. And just like in the bathroom, new faucets and lighting go a very long way to saying, “I am new and in good condition!” And if you have a little extra cash, new appliances are well worth the investment. It will look like you did a whole remodel!

Paint: I love a fresh coat of paint and so will you and so will buyers if you are thinking of selling! Paint can freshen up a tired room, lighten a dark corner and add a cohesive look throughout if you stick to one modern neutral color.

Remove and Replace: Any old or outdated details from a bygone era that don’t work for you anymore? Old chair railing or wall paper or mirrored walls are not popular or very attractive. Consider removing them. Have an old wet bar? Maybe re-purpose it by removing old glass shelving and mirrors and simplifying the space into a snack bar or coffee bar.

A new home with more appeal and use value does not have to cost a fortune or take a lot of time and effort. Enjoy!

Using Paint to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

March 23, 2018Jackie Gibbins

You want your home to stand out from the other homes that a buyer may see. You want them to fall in love at first sight! You want to give the impression that the home has style, character, warmth or just that it is well-maintained. Paint is an easy and quick way to accomplish this!

Paint Your Patio Furniture

Do you have a porch swing or a chair on your front porch? Give it a fresh coat of paint! Add matching throw pillows to make this space even more inviting.

Your Front Door

You can opt to paint your front door a solid color OR make it more custom by stenciling or detailing it. Talk about a focal point!

Your Porch Light

Do you have a porch light stuck in the 1980’s or is simply rusty or faded? There are several wonderful metallic paints you can use to make it new again. Try copper for a warm, updated look. Black or dark brown has a more formal look.

Your House Numbers

I created a house number plaque for one of my listings by painting a decorative plaque and then mounting house numbers to it. It was very unique! You can do this or a variation with paint, stencils and materials. make sure your creation is readily visible from the street!

Shutters and Trim

Add a punch of color to your facade by painting your shutters and trim a new bold color. You can even choose to stencil or detail the shutters to add charm and whimsy.

You can also paint your garage door, paint some ceramic pots to add color and paint window boxes!