Today's Home Improvement - Premier Issue

T O D A Y’S

I N S P I R A T I O N S • L I F E S T Y L E S • S O L U T I O N S

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

No

vem

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Dec

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CONTRACTOR CHECKLISTENSURE THE BEST OUTCOME

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IS IT TIME TO INSTALL SOLAR IN YOUR HOME?

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s t o n e c r e e k f u r n i t u r e . c o mScottsdale Showroom

480.451.3100Scottsdale Road & Loop 101

Chandler Showroom480.857.6300

Chandler Boulevard & Metro

Phoenix Factory & Showroom602.458.9800

I-10 freeway east of 40th Street

Arrowhead Showroom623.334.4440

Bell Road & 77th Avenue

602-903-6922Call for a FREE in-home Estimate

*Cannot be combined with other offers or applied to previous sales. Expires 12/31/10. Stone Creek Furniture Factory is a registered trademark of Stone Creek, Inc. AZ ROC #208075

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Grand OpeningNew location open in the Scottsdale Design Center

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Trade-in your old appliances and receive $500 towards the purchase* of yournewly remodeled Stone Creek kitchen valued at $9999 or more. You’ll savethousands with factory direct pricing, no contractors commissions and no architect design fees.Check out our high quality and low prices, we won’t be undersold on comparable quality!

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Reasons Our Customers Love Us!• Delighting our customers is Priority #1• Four talented, experienced designers on staff • Complete control from start to finish• All our installers are “Employees” not independent contractors

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Before After


24

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2 TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com

F E AT U R E S D E PA RT M E N T S

COLOR INSPIRATIONS 2011 Time and Taste Define Our Spaces

20

06 PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Getting UnderwayWelcome to the premier issue of Today’s Home Improvement!

10 SCRAPBOOK:Kitchen TalkHot design trends, how to recycle your old appliances, countertop options and more!

12 TREND WATCH: Inspirations. Lifestyles. Solutions.Discover what’s hot for your home.

16 LIVING GREEN:What’s New Under the Sun? APS offers a qualified solar installer program.

18 DIY CORNER: Easy Home Staging TipsSell a home faster … or just enjoy yours more!

32 CHECKLIST:For All It’s Worth10 ways to boost your property value.

24 EASY UPGRADES FOR YOUR BATHCreate a Spa Experiencewith Luxury FixturesInstall full body sprays, rain massages and even a mist function without the need to call a plumber.

26 KITCHEN CONVERSIONSFabulous Redesigns for the Heart of the HomeSee four fabulous kitchen makeovers enjoyed by homeowners right here in the Valley.

30 CHOOSING A CONTRACTORGet It Right the First TimeTo choose the right contractor for your project,ask the right questions.

t H i C O N T E N T S



I N S P I R AT I O N S • L I F E S T Y L E S • S O L U T I O N S


A D V E RT I S E R I N D E X

t H i C O N T E N T S

APPLIANCESAllstate . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

Spencers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

SubZero/Wolf . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

SunWest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Thermador . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Viking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Westar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

CABINETSAdams Bros. Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Republic West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Stone Creek . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

CONCRETE/PAVERSThe Sharper Edge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

COUNTERTOPSAdams Bros. Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

LG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Republic West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

FENCING/GATESColletti Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

FLOORING – CARPETAdams Bros. Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

FLOORING – TILE/STONE/WOODAdams Bros. Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

FLOORING – EPOXYBeyond Stone Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

FURNITUREStone Creek . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

HOME AUTOMATIONThe Home Theatre Specialists. . . . . . . 14

Cox Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

KITCHEN & BATH REMODELRepublic West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

LANDSCAPINGStraightline Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

PAINTING/PLASTER/STUCCOAZ Painting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

The Sharper Edge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

ROOM ADDITIONSRepublic West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

SEALANTS/REFINISHING - GROUT/TILEBeyond Stone Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

SECURITYBolt Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

SOLAR/UTILITIESAPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

SRP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

WATER FILTRATION/SOFTENERKinetico . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

WALLS & MASONRYThe Sharper Edge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

WINDOW COVERINGSAdams Bros. Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

WINDOWS & DOORSColletti Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Republic West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

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*Available to residential customers in Cox Arizona service areas. Some services not available in all areas. May not be available with other offers. Installation fees, equipment rental, taxes and other surcharges not included. Other restrictions may apply. All rates subject to change. Deposit may be required. Cox Advanced TV - Cox TV Starter at a minimum, digital gateway service, and digital receiver or CableCARD™ rental required for Advanced TV. If you own a One-way Digital Cable Ready (DCR) TV or other display device that is CableCARD compatible, you may lease either a CableCARD or a digital set-top receiver in order to receive Cox Advanced TV. In order to receive Interactive TV services offered by Cox, such as the Interactive Programming Guide (IPG), On Demand, Pay-Per-View, and all digital programming options, you must rent a digital receiver. If you wish to rent a CableCARD in lieu of a digital receiver, you must obtain the CableCARD from Cox. CableCARD is a registered trademark of Cable Television Laboratories, Inc. (CableLabs®) and is used with permission. Local HD channels can be tuned with an HDTV set with clear QAM tuner. An HDTV set and an HD receiver or CableCARD™ rental required in order to access other HD programming. Cox TV Starter service required for local broadcast HD channels. Cox Advanced TV and Essential service required for cable network HD channels. Cox Advanced TV required for premium HD channels, DVR and On Demand. On DEMAND and other interactive services require a digital receiver and may not be available in all areas. An HD receiver is required to access HD On DEMAND. Availability of On DEMAND content to Cox Advanced TV customers is based on the channels included in their digital cable subscription package. Some On DEMAND programming costs extra. 700 HD viewing choices based on total number of HD channels, HD On DEMAND programs, and HD PPV options. 700 is a weekly average as number of programs fl uctuates on a weekly basis. On DEMAND is not available in all areas. MyPrimetime show availability begins the day after on air premiere barring technical diffi culties. Fast Forward, Pause and Rewind functions may not be available for all MyPrimetime programming.Cox High Speed Internet - Cable modem required. Cox High Speed Internet Ultimate is available in all Cox High Speed Internet serviceable areas with the exception of Benson, Douglas, Pirtleville, Wickenburg and Verrado. Cable modem required. For best speed performance, use of Cox approved cable modem is recommended. Uninterrupted or error-free Internet service, or the speed of your service, is not guaranteed. Actual speeds may vary. The security and privacy software will automatically terminate upon termination of your Internet service and is not available for Apple users. Cox cannot guarantee the intended results from the security and privacy services or that the software will be error-free or free from interruptions or other failures. Media Store and Share is only available with Cox Preferred or higher speed Internet packages. Professional installation and a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem required to receive Premier Plus and Ultimate Internet service speeds. Cable modem is sold separately. For users of Microsoft operating systems: If you are using an MS operating system other than Vista/Windows 7 (e.g., Microsoft XP), your registry keys must be updated to enable maximum speed performance. †PowerBoost temporarily increases your download speeds for the fi rst 18 - 22 Mb of a fi le when extra bandwidth is available and is a registered trademark of Comcast Corporation, used with permission. The maximum download speeds of Ultimate are up to 55 Mbps with PowerBoost and 50 Mbps without PowerBoost. ESPN recommends an Internet connection speed of at least 768 Kbps for the best viewing experience, but a minimum connection speed of 450 Kbps is required. To check if your computer system can run ESPN3.com, visit www.cox.com/espn3. Cox Digital Telephone - Modem equipment required. Modem uses household electrical power to operate and has backup battery power provided by Cox if electricity is interrupted. Telephone service, including access to e911 service, will not be available during an extended power outage or if the modem is moved or inoperable. Cox 5 cent per minute or $15 Unlimited long distance rates are limited to direct-dialed long distance calls within the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, US Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa. Telephone services provided by Cox Arizona Telcom, LLC. ©2010 CoxCom, Inc. dba Cox Communications Arizona. All rights reserved.

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*Available to residential customers in Cox Arizona service areas. Some services not available in all areas. May not be available with other offers. Installation fees, equipment rental, taxes and other surcharges not included. Other restrictions may apply. All rates subject to change. Deposit may be required. Cox Advanced TV - Cox TV Starter at a minimum, digital gateway service, and digital receiver or CableCARD™ rental required for Advanced TV. If you own a One-way Digital Cable Ready (DCR) TV or other display device that is CableCARD compatible, you may lease either a CableCARD or a digital set-top receiver in order to receive Cox Advanced TV. In order to receive Interactive TV services offered by Cox, such as the Interactive Programming Guide (IPG), On Demand, Pay-Per-View, and all digital programming options, you must rent a digital receiver. If you wish to rent a CableCARD in lieu of a digital receiver, you must obtain the CableCARD from Cox. CableCARD is a registered trademark of Cable Television Laboratories, Inc. (CableLabs®) and is used with permission. Local HD channels can be tuned with an HDTV set with clear QAM tuner. An HDTV set and an HD receiver or CableCARD™ rental required in order to access other HD programming. Cox TV Starter service required for local broadcast HD channels. Cox Advanced TV and Essential service required for cable network HD channels. Cox Advanced TV required for premium HD channels, DVR and On Demand. On DEMAND and other interactive services require a digital receiver and may not be available in all areas. An HD receiver is required to access HD On DEMAND. Availability of On DEMAND content to Cox Advanced TV customers is based on the channels included in their digital cable subscription package. Some On DEMAND programming costs extra. 700 HD viewing choices based on total number of HD channels, HD On DEMAND programs, and HD PPV options. 700 is a weekly average as number of programs fl uctuates on a weekly basis. On DEMAND is not available in all areas. MyPrimetime show availability begins the day after on air premiere barring technical diffi culties. Fast Forward, Pause and Rewind functions may not be available for all MyPrimetime programming.Cox High Speed Internet - Cable modem required. Cox High Speed Internet Ultimate is available in all Cox High Speed Internet serviceable areas with the exception of Benson, Douglas, Pirtleville, Wickenburg and Verrado. Cable modem required. For best speed performance, use of Cox approved cable modem is recommended. Uninterrupted or error-free Internet service, or the speed of your service, is not guaranteed. Actual speeds may vary. The security and privacy software will automatically terminate upon termination of your Internet service and is not available for Apple users. Cox cannot guarantee the intended results from the security and privacy services or that the software will be error-free or free from interruptions or other failures. Media Store and Share is only available with Cox Preferred or higher speed Internet packages. Professional installation and a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem required to receive Premier Plus and Ultimate Internet service speeds. Cable modem is sold separately. For users of Microsoft operating systems: If you are using an MS operating system other than Vista/Windows 7 (e.g., Microsoft XP), your registry keys must be updated to enable maximum speed performance. †PowerBoost temporarily increases your download speeds for the fi rst 18 - 22 Mb of a fi le when extra bandwidth is available and is a registered trademark of Comcast Corporation, used with permission. The maximum download speeds of Ultimate are up to 55 Mbps with PowerBoost and 50 Mbps without PowerBoost. ESPN recommends an Internet connection speed of at least 768 Kbps for the best viewing experience, but a minimum connection speed of 450 Kbps is required. To check if your computer system can run ESPN3.com, visit www.cox.com/espn3. Cox Digital Telephone - Modem equipment required. Modem uses household electrical power to operate and has backup battery power provided by Cox if electricity is interrupted. Telephone service, including access to e911 service, will not be available during an extended power outage or if the modem is moved or inoperable. Cox 5 cent per minute or $15 Unlimited long distance rates are limited to direct-dialed long distance calls within the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, US Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa. Telephone services provided by Cox Arizona Telcom, LLC. ©2010 CoxCom, Inc. dba Cox Communications Arizona. All rights reserved.

Move up before you move in.

Cox Bundles.You need it. We got it. All your family’s technology needs from one company, on one bill.

Build the bundle that’s right for you by adding features like the ones listed below.

Cox High Speed InternetSM

Great News! Cox Ultimate High Speed Internet – 50 Mbps. Now available everywhere.*

Boost®† – You’ll get an extra burst of

speed for downloading movies,

music, photos, games and more

more FREE with Media Store and Share

included with your

subscription at no additional charge

Cox Digital Telephone®

Reliable home phone service — save your wireless minutes

existing phone number

Caller ID, Call Waiting, Voice Mail

and more

Distance for only $15/mo

Cox Advanced TVEnjoy more than 700 HD viewingchoices, including HD On DEMAND

in 100% digital quality

of shows and movies that you can

watch when you want

On DEMAND category lets you

access your favorite primetime

programming on your schedule

Call today!623-748-8957 | cox.com


15170 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 5, Scottsdale, AZ 85260T 480.443.7750 F 480.443.7751 www.lpimultimedia.com

Send email to [email protected] us at todayshomeimprovement.com

Today’s Home Improvement™ is published six times per year by LPI Multimedia Inc. Opinions expressed are those of the authors or persons quoted and not necessarily

those of LPI Multimedia Inc. While efforts to ensure accuracy are exercised, the publisher assumes no liability for the information contained in either editorial or advertising content.

Publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. Reproduction in whole or part without the expressed written consent from the

publisher is prohibited. Today’s Home Improvement™ is the registered trade name of this publication. Copyright ©2010 by LPI Multimedia Inc. All rights reserved.

Today’s Home Improvement™ is a subsidiary of:

I N S P I R AT I O N S • L I F E S T Y L E S • S O L U T I O N S

VO L U M E 1 , I S S U E 1 • November/December Issue 2010

PRESIDENT Trifon M. Kupanoff, Jr.

VICE PRESIDENT Michael A. Kupanoff

EDITOR Tammy LeRoy

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Neal McDaniel

EDITORIAL INTERNS Travis Duprey, Trey Warren

WEB DEVELOPER Theo Tigno

SUBSCRIPTIONSPhone: 480.443.7750 ext. 312

Email: [email protected]

ADVERTISINGPhone: 480.443.7750 ext. 311Email: [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSAmy Florek, Jocelyn Hutt, David Lupberger, Bernie Pallissard, Dee Schlotter

EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING OFFICEToday’s Home Improvement Magazine

15170 N. Hayden Road, Ste. 5, Scottsdale,AZ 85260Phone: 480.443.7750 • Fax: 480.443.7751

Email: [email protected]

PLEASE SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TOToday’s Home Improvement Magazine

15170 N. Hayden Road, Ste. 5, Scottsdale,AZ 85260

REPRINTS/E-PRINTSCall 877.652.5295 or Email: [email protected]

LPI Multimedia, Inc. is a proud member of:


tH i E D I TO R ’ S N OT E

WELCOME to the premier issue ofToday’s Home Improvement!Few thingsare more exciting for a magazinestaff than the debut of a newpublication we’ve poured our heartsand souls into for the past several

months. And for me—a home improvement junkie andhome décor fanatic—the thrill is doubled.

We know you’ll also be thrilled with our great lineupof articles over the coming year. Our features willencompass renovations and room makeovers, interior andexterior design, home furnishings, outdoor living, hometechnology, home maintenance, do-it-yourself projectsand more. With a focus on local trends, products andservices, Today’s Home Improvement can serve as your guideto help create your dream home right here in the Valley.

In this issue, you’ll find features on 2010/2011 designercolor trends for the home, four fabulous kitchenmakeovers, and tips for choosing the right contractorfor home repair or home improvement projects.

You’ll also discover helpful home improvement tips in ourregular columns. This issue’s DIY Corner project involveseasy bathroom upgrades with fixtures you can installyourself. Thinking of adding solar energy? Our GreenLiving column tells you how you can find a qualified solarinstaller. And if updating your kitchen is your next project,don’t miss this issue’s THI Scrapbook for helpful bits oneverything from appliances to flooring options. Lastly,Trend Watch features cool products to make your homemore livable and more beautiful.

We’re so pleased you’ve joined us for the unveiling of amagazine that’s sure to become a Valley favorite. Enjoy!

TAMMY [email protected]

Getting Underway

THI_0101_NOV_DEC_FINAL_Layout 1 11/8/10 9:44 AM Page 6

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Dinner parties. Good friends. Energy savings.

Pub: Today Home ImprovementM

$400 AC REBATEReplace your current AC or heat pump with a qualifying

new high-effi ciency system during the SRP Cool Cash

promotion and get up to $400 back. What’s more, you

could qualify for up to $1,500 in Federal tax credits.

DISCOUNTS ON CFLSDid you know CFLs use 75% less energy than standard

bulbs and come in a variety of shapes and sizes? Replace

your old bulbs one at a time or all at once – either way, you

will save with exclusive discounts on CFLs at participating

Costco, Home Depot, Sam’s Club and Walmart stores.

For these and more ways to save energy and money, visit savewithsrp.com.

SRP is giving new meaning to home comfort. From energy-saving tips to rebateson energy-effi cient appliances, you can fi nd comfort in places you never thought possible.

J Ins Date: Sep/Oct 2010 Pub: Today Home ImprovementM



tH i

IS IT TIME TO RENOVATE?According to ConsumerReports, this is an excellenttime to redo your kitchen andis the most popular remodelfor homeowners. The averagespent on a kitchen remodel isapproximately $15,000, andthe economic slowdownmeans consumers can findoutstanding deals on every-thing from cooktops tocountertops as well as greatrates from kitchen designersand contractors. The averagereturn on investment forhomeowners is between 80 to 100 percent!

RECYCLE YOUR OLD APPLIANCE!

Major home appliances, such as kitchen and laundry appliances, have long lives—typically 10-18 years.When they finally reach the end of their useful lives and are replaced, major appliances take on newvalue as an important manufacturing raw material such as scrap steel. For every ton of steel recycled,2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1400 pounds of coal and 120 pounds of limestone are conserved.

If you have questions about recycling in your area, or need to recycle an older appliance, call1-800-YES-1-CAN. You will be able to speak with live operators about the recycling services availablein your area.

S C R A P B O O K

THE HISTORY OFTHE STOVE

• Historical records show a stove being built in 1490 in Alsace, France.

• In the Middle Ages, taller brick and mortar hearths with chimneys were being built, with the food cooked in metal cauldrons hung above the fire.

• Inventors began making improvements to wood burning stoves primarily to contain the bothersome smoke they produced.

• Around 1728, cast iron ovens began to be produced in quantity.

• British inventor James Sharp patented a gas oven in 1826.

• Jordan Mott invented the first practical coal oven in 1833.

• Most kitchen appliances weren’t invented until after the Civil War when most people no longer had servants, and housewives began working alone in the kitchen.

• Gas ovens were found in most households by the 1920s with top burners and interior ovens.

• It was not until the late 1920s and early 1930s that electric ovens began to compete with gas ovens as the mass distribution of electricity to households improved.

• Dual appliances—two ovens, dishwashers, etc., toaccommodate large families

• Stainless appliances are here to stay!

• Undercounter freezers, refrigerators and wine storage

• Green or recycled materials• White cabinets paired with boldly colored accessories and wall colors

• Seamless appliances with cabinet fronts that “disappear”into the design scheme

• Functional drawers and cabinets and specialized work areas such as a coffee area.

• Task lighting and ambiance lighting with dimmers

• Computers, sound systems and televisions are more frequently integrated in today’s kitchens

• Granite is losing ground to countertop surfaces such as steel, concrete, limestone, brick and sandstone

• Fancy sinks with built-in colanders, strainers or slicing boards and deeper bowls

• Flexible, pull-out faucets and hot and cold taps

• Specialized work stations for planning, baking and coffee service as well as wine tasting nooks

• Dishwasher drawers—they’re just easier to load!

2011HOT KITCHEN

TRENDS

FYI:When you hire a remodeler, you are buying a service rather than aproduct. The quality of service theremodeler provides will determinethe quality of the finished productand your satisfaction with theresult. To ensure your satisfaction,make sure you hire a qualified,professional remodeler.source: NAHB

FIX A LEAKYFAUCET Leaking water faucets areirritating and costly. Small leaks can waste gallons of water each day and create stains in the base of your sink.The main causes of leaks areloose nuts and bad washers.

If water is leaking at the base of the handle, your connectionis probably just loose. Use anadjustable wrench and tightenthe nut located just below the handle.

Most leaks are caused by worn-out washers. Signs of poor washers include waterdripping out of the handles, slow leaks coming from thefaucet, and water that collectsor pools around the back of the handle area of the faucet.


Buy a 36”or 48” Professional Range, or any Cooktop or Rangetop and a Double or Triple Combination Oven, and we’ll include a

Dishwasher. Plus, if you also add a Refrigerator or two Freedom Columns, we’ll take care of the Ventilation. Plus, experience our Wine

Lover's Bonus. Add any Wine Cooler and step-up to a DWHD650 Sapphire Dishwasher for FREE. They’re on us during our One, Two,

FREE Sales Event, and you can save up to $5,367. Now’s the perfect time to upgrade to the #1-rated Thermador luxury appliances.

Don’t just redo your kitchen. Rediscover all you love about cooking. DISHWASHER AND REFRIGERATOR MAY ALSO BE ELIGIBLE FOR

THE STATE APPLIANCE REBATE PROGRAMS

SAVE UP TO $5,367

REAL INNOVATIONS FOR REAL COOKS

P

C P A

N.

M

N.

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N.

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YOU DO THE COOKING WE’LL DO THE DISHES

P

C P A

#6510-0102

PROMOTION VALID ONLY ON SELECT THERMADOR MODELS. TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE FREE APPLIANCES OFFERED IN THIS PROMOTION, ALL OTHER APPLIANCES MUST BE PURCHASED AT THEIR REGULAR PRICE, IN ONE ORDER, AND AT THE SAME TIME. PRODUCTS MUST BE PURCHASED DURING THE PROMOTION PERIOD. NO SUBSTITUTIONS WILL BE ALLOWED. MAY NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS. OFFER VALID IN THE U.S. ONLY. VALID AT PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS. PRODUCT OFFER MAY VARY IN SOME STATES. PLEASE SEE SALES ASSOCIATE FOR COMPLETE DETAILS. OFFER EXPIRES DECEMBER 31, 2011.

ELIGIBLE MODELS FOR “STEP UP TO SAPPHIRE” INCLUDE DWHD650GFP, DWHD650GPR, DWHD651GFP.

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE WINE LOVER’S BONUS AND THE FREE SAPPHIRE DISHWASHER, CUSTOMER MUST PURCHASE ELIGIBLE COOKING PRODUCTS PLUS ELIGIBLE REFRIGERATION PRODUCTS. (ELIGIBLE SAPPHIRE DISHWASHER MODELS INCLUDE DWHD650GFP AND DWHD650GPR)

FOR A DEALER NEAR YOU PLEASE VISIT WWW.THERMADOR.COM

P

C P A

Buy a 36”or 48” Professional Range, or any Cooktop or Rangetop and a Double or Triple Combination Oven, and we’ll include a

Dishwasher. Plus, if you also add a Refrigerator or two Freedom Columns, we’ll take care of the Ventilation. Plus, experience our Wine

Lover's Bonus. Add any Wine Cooler and step-up to a DWHD650 Sapphire Dishwasher for FREE. They’re on us during our One, Two,

FREE Sales Event, and you can save up to $5,367. Now’s the perfect time to upgrade to the #1-rated Thermador luxury appliances.

Don’t just redo your kitchen. Rediscover all you love about cooking. DISHWASHER AND REFRIGERATOR MAY ALSO BE ELIGIBLE FOR

THE STATE APPLIANCE REBATE PROGRAMS

SAVE UP TO $5,367

REAL INNOVATIONS FOR REAL COOKS

P

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COLOR SPLASHBLEND STYLE AND FUNCTION

Bored with your bathroom? Add bright touchesof color with the new Versatile Collection fromSonia. Featuring a wide range of mix-and-match colors and numerous color combos forbathroom consoles and countertops, splashesof orange or red are sure to bring any blandbathroom back to life. The console box is madeof multilayer marine-grade wood, which is 100percent water resistant. The wood counterpartsare offered in walnut, wengé, white and ashfinishes. The setup shown is priced at $4,330.954.572.5454

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tH i I N S P I R A T I O N S • L I F E S T Y L E S • S O L U T I O N S


TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 13

MOSAIC MASTERYIf you want to create a dramatic effect, much can be done with transparentglass mosaics. The 14 available colors of the REL Series from Hastings Tile& Bath, plus their versatile circular or square shapes, lend themselves to avariety of moods. Create a look that's glossy, sassy and visually arresting.516.379.3500

www.hastingstilebath.com

REFINED CLASSICArmstrong Cabinets gives new life to its Waverly door style, a classic cabinetrylook. For homeowners who love the look of natural hardwood cabinets butprefer the understated wood grain patterns and textures of maple, Waverly isa tribute to traditional tastes, yet refined for modern living. 800.527.5903

www.armstrong.com

ROCK ONExpanding on the success of the original black rock from the debutcollection, Successful Living from Diesel with Foscarini has released botha new white suspension version and a floor lamp version in black andwhite. The original dark version is rough, dotted with golden sparklesoutside and shiny smooth mother-of-pearl inside. The new white versionhas a different personality: the lighter external surface enhances the manyrandomly spaced asymmetrical facets.

www.diesel.foscarini.com

HANDSOME OPTIONGreat home design doesn’t have to break the bank, and with OrchidCeramics’ two new porcelain tile lines, Flux and Sofisticata, you can havehigh-end modern design and some money left over to buy that greatpiece that ties the room together. Flux and Sofisticata aren’t blandporcelain tiles; they feature beautiful glass and metallic mesh decorativepieces that really look amazing. What’s more, the tiles don’t emit VOCs andare Greenguard Certified.

www.orchidporcelain.com



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What’s New Under the Sun?APS OFFERS QUALIFIED SOLAR INSTALLER PROGRAMby Bernie Pallissard

tH i G R E E N L I V I N G

WITH CURRENT INCENTIVES as well as substantial energy savings, therewards of making a home a solar energy home can now outweigh the costsfor homeowners. In the only program of its kind in Arizona, 32residential solar installers became the first to achieve the designation ofQualified Solar Installer (QSI) from APS. These installers passed achallenging series of technical, professional and administrative coursesand now hold the appropriate licenses with the Arizona Registrar ofContractors. They have also achieved high customer satisfaction ratings.

The QSI designation allows residential customers to feel comfortablethat they have selected a solar installer that is technically competent,understands APS’s policies and procedures, and has demonstratedexemplary customer service.

“These installers are leaders in the industry,” says Eran Mahrer, directorof Renewable Portfolio Management. “They understand the complexitiesassociated with the various types of solar installations and are dedicated tothe highest level of technical skills, customer service and consumer safety.”

APS has been providing customers with financial incentives to install solarelectric systems since 2002 and solar water heaters since 2003. While thefirst five years of the program saw a gradual escalation in participation, thelast several have seen explosive growth. From 2002 to 2007, 1,000customers received incentives. In 2008, more than 800 customers tookadvantage, and in 2009, more than 3,000 customers received funds for

adding either a solar water heater or solar electric system to their homes orbusinesses. Participation in 2010 has exceeded all previous years.

The growth of customer interest has spurred growth in the solarinstallation industry. Since 2006, the number of solar installers has grownfrom 41 to more than 300. The QSI program was developed in responseto the increasing number of installers.

This program helps customers select an appropriate and knowledgeableinstaller. More than 60 companies participated in the first round oftraining, with 32 graduating in the inaugural class. APS anticipates morethan 75 companies will receive their QSI certifications in 2010.

APS Qualified Solar Installer contractors are not affiliates or agents ofAPS, and APS assumes no liability for their products or services; however,installers designated as a QSI must continue to keep high standards. Theymust maintain a quarterly customer satisfaction rating as determined bythe Electric League of Arizona, have a satisfactory pass rate for APSinspections and pass annual technical and professional educationworkshops. n

Bernie Pallissard is Marketing Manager for APS Renewable Energy Programs.

Learn more at aps.com/findsolar or call the APS Energy Answer Line at602.371.3668 to find an APS Qualified Solar Installer.

... IN 2009, MORE THAN 3,000 CUSTOMERS RECEIVED FUNDSFOR ADDING EITHER A SOLARWATER HEATER OR SOLAR ELECTRIC SYSTEM TO THEIRHOMES OR BUSINESSES.



IN A HISTORICALLY SLOW HOUSING MARKET, sellers need to doall they can to market their homes—and that includes staging to attractpotential buyers. Home stagers know just the right moves to make to take ahouse from bland to grand and bring home the biggest return on investment.

“Attention to detail throughout the home can make the difference betweena house that sells and one that sits on the market,” explains Kate Hart, oneof America’s top home stagers and owner of Hart & Associates Staging &Design. “In particular, improvements to the kitchen and bath—the tworooms that sell a home—will always help bring in the buyers.”

Hart’s design work has been featured in numerous books and nationalpublications as well as on The Fine Living Network, HGTV Radio andCNN Headline News. She was also recently recognized by the Real EstateStaging Association as “Staging Professional of the Year.” Hart shares withToday's Home Improvement some easy, effective home improvements thatcan make a big change without breaking the bank.

Curb Appeal: First impressions are everything, and this has never beentruer than in today’s market. Take care of any exterior maintenance issuessuch as power washing walkways and patios, cleaning your gutters, touchingup peeling paint, replacing broken light bulbs, edging and mulching beds,and adding fresh annuals. Some free things you can do include polishingyour front door hardware and sweeping away pesky cobwebs.

Kitchen:Give your kitchen a mini facelift on a budget by repainting yourcabinets instead of replacing them. For a more contemporary look,consider a semi-gloss espresso brown. For a more traditional look, opt fora semi-gloss creamy white. Complete the makeover by adding new hardwareor, ask your local painter if they can spray a lacquer finish on your cabinets.This treatment is more expensive than painting the cabinets yourself butthe result looks like a factory finish.

Bathroom:Give an outdated bath a pick-me-up by replacing your existinglighting, faucets and hardware with updated features. For a quick upgrade,frame your plate glass mirror with a MirrorMate frame. Easy to install,these frames come in several decorative finishes and give your bathroom acustom designer look in minutes.

Bedrooms: Take your bedroom from lived-in to luxurious by creating aheadboard that gives your room a more complete look. Measure the widthof your bed and determine the height you prefer. Purchase a quarter-inchpiece of plywood fitting these dimensions (ask the store to cut if for you)and cover it with two-inch foam that fits the dimensions you selected. Wrapthe foam and plywood with batting that can be purchased from a craft store.Finally, use a staple gun to cover with a fabric of your choice. You can thenhang the headboard on the wall behind the bed with “D” rings and hooksas if you were hanging a piece or art, or attach it to your bed frame usingbolts and washers.

Family Room:Make your fireplace or your great view the selling feature—not your entertainment center. Chances are, your family room is currentlycentered around the things you do everyday such as watching TV. Beforeshowing your home, rearrange things to showcase the architectural focalpoint of your family room.

Dining Room: Often, the best way to update a dining room is to simplyde-clutter. Remove any knick-knacks and extraneous items from yourchina cabinet or sideboard. A rule to follow is to pack up any items thatare smaller than a softball, such as salt and pepper shakers, wedding caketoppers and small figurines.

Living Room: If you are showing your home, remove any family photosfrom the room. Give this space a less cluttered look by keeping no morethan three items per surface. For example, go with a piece of art and a pairof candle sticks on the mantle instead of your favorite collection.

“It’s important to complete all your improvements before your home goeson the market because, as the saying goes, you never have a second chanceto make a first impression,” Hart says. “And once the sign goes up, youneed to keep up the clean, de-cluttered look because you never know whenyou’ll have a showing. It just takes one buyer to sell your home.” n

Amy Florek is Principal of Amy Florek Public Relations, and can be reached [email protected].

Learn more at www.hartstaging.com and www.mirrormate.com


Home Staging TipsSELL A HOME FASTER…OR JUST ENJOY YOURS MORE!by Amy Florek

tH i D I Y C O R N E R

An update as simple and easy as framing a plain bathroom mirror can create a more upscale feel in a room.

BEFORE AFTER



2011

C O V E R S T O R Y

COLOR INSPIRATIONSTIME AND TASTE DEFINE OUR SPACES

by Dee Schlotter


EAGERLY ANTICIPATED EACH YEAR, new color trends follow the fluid movement of the home fashionmarket and resonate with consumers’ desire to constantly reinvent themselves and their living spaces;our time, as much as our tastes, define our spaces.

Homeowners are taking a much more conscientious approach to color choices in 2010 and 2011.Taking their cues from the modern world even as they embrace the past, custom color palettes can blendcalming, classic neutrals with standouts such as an exotic raspberry pink and an uplifting bright yellow.

tH i


A BEDROOM CAN BE TRANSFORMED WITH THE GOLDENHUES OF PITTSBURGH PAINT’S GRACE COLLECTION.

Serene, elegant and sophisticated, this palette has a delicate andcomplex style that alludes to tradition and a quiet confidence inone’s personal taste.

The hues range from pale butter to golden to deep bronze-gold. A creamy white and soft linen convey depth and sturdiness, whileseafoam blue-green adds a touch of nature and freshness.

This look works great with precious metals, mirrored surfaces, shimmering silks and soft woven jacquards.


THE RICH TRADITIONAL COLORS, ARCADED SILHOUETTES AND NATURAL TEXTURESOF PITTSBURGH PAINT’S HACIENDA PALETTE CAN CREATE A SOULFUL HOME DÉCOR.

NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO DEPLOY THE POWER OF COLOR ... TO INSPIRE, REJUVENATE AND

REFLECT A NEW YOU AND A ‘NOW’ STYLE.



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1,4. LIKE THE INDIAN PINK CITY OFJAIPUR FOR WHICH IT IS NAMED, PITTSBURG PAINT’S PINK CITY PALETTESHOWCASES VIBRANT INDIAN PINKSAND SPICY ORANGES.

This palette vibrates with the pulse of lifeand spirit of adventure and represents thedestination on a journey of self-discovery. It’sa testament to the power of creativity and theallure of warm, saturated colors. Deep pinkand rusty orange play against off-white linenwith a stony gray and a chocolate brown toreflect an urban look.

With this palette, use crushed velvet, texturedand layered materials along with leather,chenille,dark woods, rattan and tortoise shell.

2. THIS SHOWCASE KITCHEN USESSMALL TOUCHES OF CONTRASTING ACCENT COLOR, SUCH AS THE GREENOFTHE PLANT AGAINSTTHE GREYWALL,TO ACCENTUATE THE OTHERHUES AND ENLIVEN THE THEME.

3. PITTSBURGH PAINT’S ZEST PALETTEMIXES HIGH ENERGYYELLOW AND PUREWHITE FOR A FRESH AND BRIGHT LOOK.

This playful, spirited and sassy style is pure,concentrated happiness to rev up the décorof the home fashionista who is not afraid ofmaking a bold statement.At once glamorousand fun loving, the high-energy yellow and apure bright white bring fresh energy to anyroom. Pair these with a steely gray, pale grayand a sleek black that leaves boring far behind.

Augment this design with geometric forms,quirky shapes, bright finishes and high-glossobjects.

5. THEWARMTONES OF MEXICAN DESIGNARE NOW EASIER FOR HOME-OWNERS TO MAKE THEIR OWNWITHPITTSBURGH PAINTS’ HACIENDA STYLECOLOR PALETTE.

6. PITTSBURG PAINT’S CANVAS PALETTEUSES SUBDUED GRAYS BROWNSANDBLUES TO CONVEY A CALM AND QUIETMINIMALISM.

Your palette can also create shelter and allowthose who dwell within the freedom to thinkand renew and begin again. Born of a deepcraving for silence and space, soulful darkcolors of silence—deep gray-browns andasphalt gray-blues convey a calm and quietingspirit. The colors of space—muted beiges,warmer beiges and basic chalky whites canbe paired to lend the harmony of minimalismand evoke space maximalism.

To achieve this look, use linen, cotton, hempand pale bleached woods with simple shapes,raw textures and rugged surfaces.

Dee Schlotter is the brand manager for Voice of Colorby PPG Pittsburgh Paints.


F E AT U R E

EASY UPGRADES FORYOUR BATHCreate a Spa Experience with Luxury Fixtures

by Jocelyn Hutt

THERE’S NO QUESTION that during an economic downturn, home renovations should be well-thought-out; they need to deliver big rewards in both the return on your investment and in the lookand feel of the room being renovated. The good news is that bathroom renovations are still consideredrecession-proof. Homeowners who sell are likely to recoup up to 80 percent of the cost, making thebath the one room that deserves its own “stimulus package.”

When asked what they want in a bathroom experience, most homeowners say they want to achieve aspa-like feeling in the bath. And to most owners and bathroom designers, it’s all about the shower.

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Over the past few years, showers have gone from functional and uninspiringto an indulgent experience. However, the thought of having to tear out ashower and spend thousands of dollars upgrading to new systems keeps manyhomeowners from considering an upgrade.

SHOWER POWERThe secret many people don’t know is that there are products available thatwill turn your shower into a spa without your ever having to tear out theexisting plumbing. Surprised? So were we! But new fixtures are availablethat provide full body sprays, rain massage and even a nebulizing mistfunction—all without the need to call a general contractor or plumber.These products work with your existing plumbing, making them perfect forthe DIY generation.

If you’re concerned about the environment and your carbon footprint, andyou want to upgrade to a low-flow showerhead but fear losing the power ofa strong stream of water; technology has advanced here as well. There aremany products available now that provide a strong stream of water while atthe same time being considered “low-flow.”

Look for a showerhead that is made with a flow regulator, not a flowrestrictor. That sounds a bit technical, but here’s the important difference:A flow regulator is a device that maintains a constant flow rate regardless ofthe water pressure. If the pressure is low, the outlet fixture becomes larger,letting more water through. And if the pressure is high, the outlet fixturedecreases. This is how it maintains its constant, steady pressure. Flowrestrictors, however, are a fixed size and won’t maintain a constant flow ratewith changes in water pressure. Hence, only flow regulators can consistentlyprovide good water pressure and a great shower experience.

FUNCTIONAL LUXURYIf you’re planning to stay in your home until retirement and beyond, thinkabout adding devices that will help you age with grace. “Aging in place” is ahot topic in design right now, and many manufacturers offer productssuch as grab bars and balance bars that provide more of a design elementthan an institutional add-on.

Luxury grab bars come in finishes that are designed to work with yourexisting bathroom hardware. In beautiful polished nickel as well asantiqued gold fluted rods, these elegant grab bars look nothing less thanjust plain gorgeous! If you are installing frameless glass doors on yourshower, you can coordinate grab bars with the shower door handles.Anytime you can create a cohesive look in your bathroom, you’reguaranteed to feel better about using it.

These easy fixture upgrades can provide you with a bathroom with all themodern conveniences at a fraction of the cost of a complete renovation.You can’t ask for more than that! n

Jocelyn Hutt is Vice President of DRS and Associates public relations firm’s East Coast divisionand represents JACLO, a premier manufacturer of luxury grab bars, decorative plumbingproducts and advanced shower solutions for commercial and residential installations.

Learn more at www.jaclo.com

... MOST HOMEOWNERS WANT TO ACHIEVE A SPA-LIKE FEELING IN THE BATH.


HOMEF E AT U R E


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OPPOSITE (TOP):A stunning remodel makes this traditional style kitchen the showplace of this Valley home—and state-of-the-art functionality makes it exceptionally livable. A SubZero Pro refrigerator with a glass door, side-by-side Wolf 30-inch ovens, a 36-inch Wolf electric cooktop with five burners, a Wolf

warming drawer and a Sharp microwave drawer make this a dream kitchen for meal preparation.

Herrington Square cabinetry by Kemper in cherry is finished with a Whiskey Black glaze for added sophistication, paired with Juperana Fantastico granite surfaces. And after the guests have gone, a Fisher & Paykel double dishwasher makes cleanup easy. Remodel by Republic West.

OPPOSITE (BOTTOM):This dramatic transformation of a tiny, closed-in kitchen to an expansive living area included a room addition of approximately 125 square feet and newly installed windows and doors to capitalize on this Valley home’s gorgeous desert views. For cabinetry, this homeowner chose Kemper’s Heritage Square in cherry with five-piece fronts and crown molding for added refinement. Granite countertops in Esprito Santos blend seamlessly with the

warm wood tones.

The flooring is a harmonious combination of hardwood by Mayfair Flooring and easy-care tile from Arizona Tile. GE stainless appliances add convenience and style, including a GE Monogram 36-inch hood vent; a GE Profile Energy Star 25.5 cubic foot freezer/refrigerator with a French door bottom; a GE Profile CleanDesign 36-inch Cooktop; and a GE Profile built-in trash compactor. This kitchen also includes a Sharp microwave drawer. A wine bar with a built-in cooler

makes it easy for these Valley homeowners to join the party! Remodel by Republic West.

KITCHEN CONVERSIONSFabulous Redesigns for the Heart of the Home

WITH A RETURN ON INVESTMENT for homeowners commonly in the 80 to 90 percent range, it's nowonder that the number of homeowners doing major kitchen remodels is up this year, according theNational Kitchen & Bath Association.

How much should you spend? Experts say the cost should be in line with the value of your home.Following the 15 percent rule, if your home value is $250,00, for example, then $37,500 is a goodnumber to work with. A return on investment of 100 percent or higher is not unheard of; and evenif you don't reach that return, consider the enjoyment your family will get from your new kitchen!

Homeowners right here in the Valley are enjoying these fabulous kitchen makeovers by Republic Westand Stone Creek Kitchen & Bath.



AFTER

BEFORE AFTER

BEFORE AFTER

F E A T U R E



ABOVE:

This kitchen makeover is proofthat even a small kitchen candazzle. Rich custom cabinetryand crown molding in warmhues paired with brushed nickel

hardware add understated elegance. The upper cabinets wereraised to ceiling height to update the look and expand storagespace. Stainless steel appliances, high-end granite countertopsand a granite back splash also take this kitchen up a notch, anda vented stainless steel hood adds a contemporary touch.

Remodel by Stone Creek Kitchen & Bath.

t H i F E AT U R E

WHEN IT COMES TO A HIGH-END LOOK, DETAILS ARE EVERYTHING.

ABOVE:

When it comes to a high-endlook, details are everything.Crown molding and furniture-grade cabinetry with raisedpaneling take the look to the

next level, and contrasting cabinet finishes and granite colorsgive this fabulous kitchen extra panache. Custom Aldercabinetry in a contemporary espresso finish is paired with light-colored granite in the main kitchen area, while an antique whitefinish and black granite separate the functional island and helpit blend seamlessly with the living area beyond.

The stove was replaced with a modern cooktop, and the newoven—with a stainless steel finish and the addition of a warmingdrawer—has its own special space. These quality features, alongwith an elegant tile backsplash and new flooring, are sure to givethese homeowners a great return on investment.

Remodel by Stone Creek Kitchen & Bath.

Learn more at www.republicwest.com and www.stonecreekfurniture.com

BEFORE AFTER BEFORE AFTER



Dream. Design. Construct. Enjoy.

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F E A T U R E

FEELING CONFIDENT that you’ll choose well is verydifficult. If we add the thought that thousands ofdollars are at stake, the burden is enough to intimidatemany from ever starting. But I encourage you to stepbeyond this limitation. By following the steps below,you’ll learn how to better spot good contractors, builda list of qualified candidates, and test them so youchoose the contractor best suited for your job. You’llfind the selection process is not only manageable, butalso informative and rewarding. As a bonus, thisprocess aids in the development and refinement ofyour home’s design.

YOUR FIRST CALLMost people don’t like interviewing contractors becausethey don’t have confidence in their ability to discern ifa contractor is honest. If you’ve done your homeworkwith thoroughness and patience, you’ve spared yourselfthat anxiety because you already know your candidates

are qualified, honest, and reliable. Following are somepreliminary questions to ask potential contractorsbefore setting a meeting:

1. Have you completed a job similar to this before?2.Do you have a list of references I can contact?3.When will you be able to start the job?

When could we meet in person to further discuss this?(Ask this only if you’re encouraged by the answersthey’ve given.)

There is no set script for these calls, and in the courseof some conversations, a builder may offer everythingmentioned above and more. Be aware of how easilythe conversation progresses. During and after thecall, make a few notes. What were your impressions ofthe builder? Did he listen well? Did he answer yourquestions thoroughly?

We’ve all heard thehorror stories aboutfly-by-night contractorsbut the truth is,there are many goodcontractors outthere with an ongoingcommitment to qualityconstruction and goodcustomer service.You just have to knowhow to find them.In fact, one of yourresponsibilities as ahomeowner is askingthe right questions ofyour contractor, andthis article will showyou how.

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CHOOSING A CONTRACTORGet It Right the First Timeby David Lupberger

NOTHING IS OFF-LIMITSCONCERNING YOUR PROJECT OR THE COMPANY YOU’REINTERVIEWING.


F E AT U R E

YOUR FIRST MEETING WITH PRESELECTED CONTRACTORSMost contractors are well aware that this first meeting is a make-or-breaksituation. If one schedules to meet but doesn’t show, cross them off your list.

It is critical that all principal parties are present at this initial and allsubsequent meeting. This includes the contractor and both homeowners,if applicable. It’s absolutely essential for everyone to participate fully in theinterview process to further facilitate an equal understanding of the project.

Below are some questions you should ask during your first meeting:

Business Identity • How long has the firm been in business?• What is their permanent business address?• Is the prospect licensed to work in your area?

Business Practices• How does the company effectively handle warranty service complaints?• Is the company insured?• How does the company maintain good customer relationships?• What will the payment or draw schedule look like?

Building Practices (applicable in longer projects) • Who will be assigned as the project or site supervisor?• Who will be your contact if that person is not available?• Will there be a supervisor on the site full-time?• Will they be providing a written construction schedule?


• Will they meet regularly with you during construction?• Can you expect to see workers at the site every day?• Does the builder plan to stay personally involved in the project at all points?

This list is not intended to be exhaustive. In fact, it should help you generateother, more project-focused questions.

I cannot encourage you strongly enough to ask any and all questions youmay have. Nothing is off-limits concerning your project or the companyyou’re interviewing. Asking detailed questions is the heart of your duediligence. If you don’t question thoroughly, you’re giving up yourresponsibility in this process and possibly compromising the quality of yourproject. There are many more questions to ask your contractor than areprovided on this list, so write up your own questions related to your project.This can help you not only verbalize and solidify your project, but also helpsgive the contractor more information—leading to a well-designed andfocused goal: the house you want. n

David Lupberger is ServiceMagic’s Home Improvement Expert. After more than 20 years as acontractor, Lupberger uses his experience to educate consumers about how to avoid homeimprovement fraud, the projects they can tackle on their own, and how to hire the right contractorfor projects too big to handle themselves. Lupberger is author of Managing the EmotionalHomeowner and currently blogs for ServiceMagic.

Learn more at www.servicemagic.com

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tH i C H E C K L I S T

HOMEOWNERS PLAY AN IMPORTANT PART not only in how their home is perceived byprospective buyers, but also its actual appraised value. To help sellers better maximize their profitpotential, follow these 10 tips for readily increasing a home’s worth.

For All It’s Worth10WAYSTO BOOST YOUR PROPERTYVALUEby Robert Jensen

Paint the exterior - A fresh coat of paint can give even arelatively new home a much needed facelift, and can often bedone for as low as a few thousand dollars. Select a neutral tonethat is consistent with other residences in the neighborhood. Also,be sure to pay close attention to eaves, gutters and drains that mayalso need painting.

Complete all needed repairs - To maximize a home’s worth,it should be in good condition both inside and out. Don’t waituntil there is an offer on the home. Hire an inspector now andfix any problems such as roof deficiencies, leaky plumbing andelectrical concerns.

Purchase a home warranty - Establish peace of mind thatcomes with knowing a home and its contents are adequatelycovered in the event of a loss. A transferrable home warrantyprotection plan can provide added security to the homeowner—and the potential buyer.

Furnish the home to sell - Appeal to the buyer’s emotion.Furnishing a home can go a long ways to getting your homesold, increasing the odds of it selling. Give buyers the option toprocure the property with or without furnishings, and have apre-established sale price set for either scenario.

Upgrade front yard landscaping - Curb appeal plays a bigrole—more so than people realize. Potential buyers driving theneighborhood may never call the number on the For Sale sign ifyour home doesn’t look appealing from the outside. And buyerswaiting for their Realtor to show up often spend a good amountof time critiquing the landscaping while waiting. In addition topurposeful foliage, add landscape lighting and a weather- and soilmoisture-based landscape irrigation scheduling device to boostthe value even more.

Create a quick kitchen makeover - Kitchens are one ofthe number one rooms in the home in which you get the most

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bang for your remodeling buck. Countertops and appliances arethe quickest fix, along with faucets, fixtures, door knobs and othereasily changed items that can have a great impact on the space.

Think spa, not bathroom - The master bath is an importanta factor in a home’s worth. Think spa, or private sanctuary wherethe master bath is concerned—a space meant to be relaxing,rejuvenating and more. Give buyers something to be excitedabout with upgraded faucets, fixtures, lighting, cabinetry, mirrorsand other details. Then, dress it up with plants, candles and otherinexpensive, high impact décor.

Install soft and hard window treatments - There isnothing more boring than a plain window. Take advantage of thiseasy opportunity to give the home’s interior design more impact,while also increasing the home’s worth. In addition to “hard”treatments such as blinds and shutters that offer privacy, also addsoft treatments hung from decorative fixtures, which can alter theappeal of a room entirely. Look to a professional to ensure thebest outcome.

Replace carpet rather than just cleaning - Rather thansimply steam cleaning old, used carpet, replace it with fresh,neutral-toned carpet with an upgraded pad for an extra luxuriousfeel. Spending the extra money on new carpet will really makeyour home stand out from the crowd in looks, feel and even smell.

Don’t overlook your closets - The better organized a closet,the larger it appears and the better it reflects on a home overall.Now is the time to box up those unwanted clothes and shoes anddonate them to charity. Then, invest in a closet organizationsystem—either by a professional or self-installed. A closetmakeover will have a positive impact on an appraisal.

Robert Jenson is CEO of luxury Las Vegas realty The Jenson Group atRE/MAX Central.

Updated countertops and appliances are the quickest fix, giving you the most bang for your

remodeling buck.



GIVE YOUR FAMILY CLEAN,FRESH, AFFORDABLE WATER!

OUR CUSTOMERS ENJOY:• Softer skin & hair

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Creating the kitchen of your dreams?

We can arrange that.

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| www.subzero.com/phoenix | 480-921-0900

Take in the latest design trends. Test-drive Sub-Zero and Wolf products in full-scale kitchens.And talk to the resident experts who help you bring it all together. Call for an appointment today.

15570 N. 83rd Way, Scottsdale, Arizona 85260 | www.subzero.com/phoenix | 480-921-0900


Sub-Zero and Wolf available at

ARROWHEAD(623) 487-7700

GILBERT(480) 366-3900

GOODYEAR(623) 930-0770

MESA(480) 833-3072

SCOTTSDALE(480) 991-7200


Check out our Sub-Zero Wolf events at

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Documents

Today's Home Improvement - Premier Issue