According to Case Design/ Remodeling Inc., here are a few of the biggest trends to watch:
• Faucets. Personalized design is aimed at providing homeowners with a relaxing environment while they bathe or shower.
• Concrete and glass countertops. Concrete can take any shape, a plus for designers, and it is not as costly as some other naturalstone materials. Glass - in all shapes, colors, thicknesses and textures - is also showing up in ultra-modern kitchen designs.
• Shower seating. Inspired by upscale spas, seats in showers have become one of the latest trends in master bathrooms.
• Outdoor kitchens. Whether built from the ground up or on an existing patio, outdoor kitchens boost resale value and offer limitless possibilities.
• Energy-efficient materials and appliances. Windows and doors, washing machines, dishwashers, ranges and refrigerators feature sleek designs, innovation and all the latest amenities to help homeowners become more energy- and resource-efficient and save money.

This months joke:

Question:How do you make a milkshake?

Cheers!

Extravagant home wine cellars are a hot trend in the luxury home market. Wine enthusiasts are building elaborate cellars and tasting rooms, some featuring Italian-inspired décor, terracotta walls and slate floors, in their homes. These ultra-high-end cellars can cost up to six figures to build. And that’s not including the wine.
Fortunately for wine lovers, there are several less expensive options for storing your vino. If you can’t dedicate an entire room to wine storage, a temperature-controlled wine cooler may do the trick. Resembling a small refrigerator, these wine storage systems might fit in your kitchen or basement. Depending on their size, prices start at approximately $400. The experts at www.wineenthusiast.com say a cooler is a great option if your wine collection is relatively small (in the 30- 50-bottle range).
But your home might already feature a suitable, even less expensive storage solution. Wine should be kept at a constant temperature between 50 and 70 degrees in a dark, vibration-free area that is not too dry. Your basement or a dark closet might fit the bill. Store bottles on shelves or in a wine rack to keep them off the ground, and be sure to keep wine away from windows, heating vents or household appliances.
Whether you’re a casual drinker or an oenophile, keeping your wine in a safe place that protects its quality and allows it to mature (even if it’s only for a couple months) is essential. And it’s something you can do no matter what your budget

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April Cybertips

New Holiday/Vacation Homes For Sale

Question:How to handle an open house.

Answer: An open house can be a great way to sell your home. It can also be an open invitation to prying eyes. To keep your personal life, well, personal, here are some steps you can take to snoop-proof your house when prospective buyers are around:
1. Clear away mail and paperwork from all surfaces (desktops, countertops, coffee table). Lock up extra-sensitive documents (bank statements, passport, social security card, etc.).
2. Remove diplomas and personal photos from your walls.
3. Store family heirlooms. You don't want your personal effects to distract buyers. A tidy and uncluttered space will help them imagine themselves in the home.
4. Organize closets. Some visitors have no qualms about opening closets and cabinets and peeking into other generally off-limit areas. Be prepared by making sure those hidden areas are in tip-top shape.

Have questions? email Risa at questions@risa.net or call her at 1-800-699-4901

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Use This Moving Truck for FREE      

RE/MAX Town & Country Realty has a moving truck (pictured above) that our clients can use FREE for their local (inside the Metro-Orlando area) moves. When Risa helps you buy or sell a home, just let her know that you would like to use the RE/MAX Moving Truck. Then Ray, the Moving Truck Coordinator, will coordinate your reservation to use the truck for a 24 hour period and outline all of the details for the truck’s use. Tell Risa early on in your transaction that you’d like to use the truck to make sure that you can reserve the best time for your move! We’re glad to be able to offer this additional service to our clients. Risa Saltman wants to help make your moving process as smooth, enjoyable and efficient as possible.

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