Sunday, July 29, 2007

Deep Cleaning

I didn't realize how much junk we have, until I started sorting. I'm so tired I think could drop into bed and sleep another 12 hours. I'm sore from the workout I'm getting with all this sorting. We have piles of junk to haul off. There are piles in our living room, the dining room, and outside.

The storage room is empty, even though the junk isn't gone. We are going to repurpose the room. I'd love a craft room. I doubt we'll use it for a craft room though.

The next project is a bathroom, minor make over. We'll paint the bathroom and hang a new shower curtain. I said minor make over. It's the small bathroom guests use, we bought blue paint to match some new towels I purchased awhile back. Color will be on the walls. Blue paint, not white! This is way out of the norm for us.

Friday, July 27, 2007

Clean Sweep Cleaning

I've done a clean sweep style of cleaning in one of our storage rooms. You heard me right. Storage rooms. It feels great to have sorted so much stuff. Now what do I do with the sorted stuff? I have a pile of stuff for the trash. That's easy. Haul it to the dump. I have a pile of stuff for the second hand store. I wonder if they'll take it all. I have a pile of stuff that I think other people might like. It would be so much easier to trash it, but I'll keep it for a day or two waiting to see if they pick it up. But, what do I do with all the stuff I don't want to part with?

Will the appraiser open my storage room door? lol No doubt he will. What will I tell him? Hi, My name is Kay and I'm a pack rat.

I wish I could wave a wand and it would go away. Does that happen in real life or only in books.

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Appraiser Is Coming

What did we get ourselves into? We have an appraiser coming in a few short days. I wasn't ready for this. Not even a little bit ready. I'm not a flylady. I'm never prepared to have company on a drop in basis. My home isn't ready. It's cluttered.

We have so much to do. There is touch up painting here and there, massive de-cluttering, we need to haul out the john deere for some heavy duty yard work.

I've been clearing clutter, boxing stuff up to haul off to the 2nd hand store. Now I have piles of stuff to get rid of. I also have piles of stuff I sorted, but I don't know what to do with.

I wonder how an appraisal works. Can I hide clutter behind closed doors? Does the appraiser open cupboard doors? Will he open my closets?

I don't have time for this. I wish I had a few more days before the appraiser was coming. He's our key in securing the home refinance loan.

Monday, July 23, 2007

Refinancing Our Home

We have no options now. With the extra money needed to fix the bathroom floors, we must refinance our home. DH contacted a finance company a couple days ago. I'm not sure what type of loan we'll be getting. I'm not sure if it's a 2nd mortgage or if it's a refinance, or a home equity loan? My DH has been talking to the finance company and he's got all the details.

I do know, we have an appraiser coming out to the house within a week. OhNO! We have so much to do before this old house, the place I so lovingly refer to as 'home', is ready for an appraisal.

Friday, July 20, 2007

Home Sweet Tiny Home

Meet Dee, she lives in Olympia, Washinton. Dee built a tiny 800 sq ft home. I love it! I'm not sure I could not live there for two years, as she has done, but it's hers! She built it. It's home sweet home. I love her dream home. I say I couldn't live there. I'm selfish sometimes. I have needs. I'd need a shower, maybe not a bathtub. But I would definately need a shower.



I hope this video shows up.

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Water Leaks

We discovered the reason for the soft floor. Old plumbing. Remember what I said. This house has been in the family for generations. Well. Generations ago, the plumbing was put in. Joyful! Don't you think? We are starting to feel like this old country home is the money pit. How long has this plumbing been leaking? We have no idea. Long enough to make the floors go soft.

We have to fix the plumbing soon. That's not something we can let go, so we are going to end up taking out a loan against the equity on the place. We weren't decided on it, but now we don't have a choice. Money. Money. More money. Where is it suppose to come from?

Monday, July 16, 2007

Stall In Plans

It seems our floor is soft, so now we have to fix it before we do any upgrades. I suppose fixing a floor is an upgrade of sorts. We have no idea how much this is going to cost or how much time it is going to take. For now it's on hold.

Since the bathroom remodel job is on hold, I guess I'm back to landscaping.

8 Things to Consider Before Buying a Bathroom Faucet

8 Things to Consider Before Buying a Bathroom Faucet by Millicent Smith

• Style – seems like an obvious consideration but there is more to it than meets the eye. There are four types of bathroom faucets – single hole, 4” center-spread, 4” hole mini-spread and 8” wide-spread. First consider are the size of the bathroom, the size and style of the sink and the placement of the faucet. Both a small bathroom and a small sink call for less flamboyant faucets where as a large bathroom needs a more dramatic look. Vessel sinks have their own needs as well including height and placement of taps and faucet.



• Finish – the most common finish is electroplated chrome on a brass or zinc body. This combination is easy to maintain, lasts well and is easy on the eye. Pewter, nickel and satin finishes are long lasting and have the added bonus of the softer finish hiding fingerprints, water spots, and mild abuse such as scratches. Natural brass is an excellent choice and easily kept shiny and clear of marks with brass cleaner. Painted or enamel finishes now come in a variety of colors and styles but these finishes are not at resilient to scratches and chipping so best to keep these in low traffic bathrooms.



• Construction Material – under the finish lies the important part of a faucet. What is the body of the faucet made of will give you a great clue into what type of quality you are buying. Solid brass is the longest lasting material while requiring the least amount of maintenance. All top end faucets are made from brass. The next choice is the slightly cheaper die cast zinc-alloy bodies. These are a good option although the zinc corrodes with contact with water so expect to replace the unit when the plating wears off. Avoid the cheap faucets with a plastic body – they will not last.



• Location – think high traffic versus low traffic when buying a faucet. In a powder room or guest bathroom, installing a less expensive model or a model that may take a little higher maintenance will work fine. However, in a high traffic bathroom or the children’s bathroom, more thought needs to go into the purchase. You want a sturdy and low-maintenance model that can take abuse while still looking like a million bucks!



• Users – For most people, using a bathroom faucet is easy – we do it many times each day without thinking twice. Seniors, small children and people suffering from disabilities may not have it so easy however. Arthritis is just one of the many conditions that can make turning a knob difficult if not impossible. Or consider a child who already needs a stool to reach the sink – how likely are they to turn two knobs when washing their hands? Not likely, they are more likely to use one knob and you just have to hope they reach for the cold tap. A single lever action might be easier in any of these situations or, at the least, knobs with a valve system that limits the amount of turning needed – some are as easy as a quarter turn. A metered faucet with a set temperature might work well for a bathroom for small children – one button and temperate water flows for a set amount of time (usually 10 to 60 seconds).



• Brand – it is all in the name when it comes to bathroom faucets! Moen, Delta, Kohler and American Standard are all common names in faucets but do not forget about Danze, Grohe, Pegasus and Porcher – all excellent manufacturers and worth the time invested in researching their various products. Choose a manufacturer that stands behind their product and their warranty.



• Expected Lifespan and Warranty – ever consider the fact that if a manufacturer only guarantees an item for a year that is all they are expecting it to last? Maybe it is not quite that bad but most bathroom faucets comes with 1 year, 5 year or 10 year warranties. The initial outlay may be a higher for the better quality faucet but there is a greater chance of it lasting until the end of the warranty while lesser product will need to be replaced several times over. Over time you save not only money saving but a few headaches while you’re at it.



• Resale value and appeal – fitting your home with higher-end fixtures increases the value of your home and a bathroom faucet, although not as obvious as an expensive dishwasher or stove, is like any other fixture when it comes to resale appeal. Obviously, an old or poorly maintained bathroom faucet will detract from the overall looks of the house but what about a newer faucet that looks cheap or common? Same thing. What might seem like a deal or bargain at the hardware store might hit you in the pocket later on so think a little more far reaching so save yourself a few bucks and consider the cost down the road.


http://www.bathroom-sink-faucets.com/index.html


Article Directory: Article Dashboard

Friday, July 13, 2007

Baths Take On a New Seasoned Look from Modern to Traditional

By: Shelley Murphy


Everything old is new again especially when it comes to bathroom remodeling. Homeowners are discovering one of the hottest trends in bathroom decor is replacing existing bathtubs with vintage Victorian baths. To further accentuate the look of the bath, elaborate traditional shower mixer taps are installed giving the bathroom a true historic appeal.



As do people come in all shapes and sizes, baths are following suit to accommodate every lifestyle exemplifying unique individual tastes incorporating extraordinary design elements. Creating a bathroom to reflect one's personal style can easily be accomplished with several different designs to choose from. Freestanding roll top baths are a great way to combine contemporary with traditional design by incorporating an ornate wooden pedestal or classical ball and claw foot mounts.



Creating a balanced look in your bathroom should take some considerable thought, whether it sumptuous curves or bold sleek lines, your blueprints should factor in floor space, plumbing, existing bathroom furniture and bathroom accessories. Corner baths are becoming increasingly popular not only due to their unique shape, but they are also a way of giving your bathroom a more spacious feel when designing for a smaller bathroom. Since baths are now available in a multitude of sizes, choosing a corner bath is the perfect addition to any bathroom giving it a refined geometrical look.



While bathtubs consume a large percentage of a bathroom remodeling budget, selecting a bath that is durable is a vital consideration. Today's popular choice for homeowners especially with children, acrylic has become one of the ideal choices in bathtubs finishes. Known for its flexibility, acrylic allows for creating a myriad of bath designs. Lightweight and fiberglass filled, acrylic baths are resistant to cracks and chips and are easily maintained. Today acrylic is highly regarded as a luxurious material that provides a deep and stylish design and gives a custom look to any bathroom installation.


Author Bio

Written by Shelley Murphy on behalf of http://www.victoriaplumb.com/ an online retailer of bathroom furniture related products serving the United Kingdom.


Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/


Thursday, July 12, 2007

Bathroom Remodel

We have three bathrooms, the master bathroom, the kids bathroom, and the main bathroom also known as the guest bathroom.

We have been looking at our options as far as the bathrooms go. If we stay here we want to upgrade our master bathroom. I'm thinking zen-like spa. Very relaxing and spa like. We might need to add on to the square footage if we stay here. I have heard we will get back most of the money we put into the bathroom remodel, so even if we sell, the new owners will have a fantastic bathroom. If we stay, I'll have the bathroom of my dreams.

Right now our bathroom has a big soaking tub, a separate shower, two sinks, and plenty of storage cupboards and drawers. It's pretty basic though. What's that called? Builder basic and plain. I know, we've lived here how many years, and my bathroom is builder basic. Well, it was nice when it was new.

I was looking at options for the flooring, counters, and the fixtures for the bathroom. The choices seem endless. I want to see a few working bathrooms for ideas before I make any final decisions. This is going to be expensive, but it's going to be fun shopping!

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Useful Remodeling Ideas - BEFORE You Get Started!

By: Michael Johnson


Home remodeling can be done for function or just because the house needs a new look, or a combination of the two. The focus of home remodeling for most homeowners is usually the kitchen or the bathrooms because those are the rooms that add the most value to a home and can become outdated more quickly. Just as in fashion, home décor goes through fads, and typically if bathrooms and kitchens have not been remodeled for ten years or more, it's obvious!



How many times have we heard the jokes about the ambitious do-it-yourself homeowner who starts project after project, only to stop in the middle and not finish any one of them? Usually the weekend warrior runs out of time, or perhaps money, or maybe he or she realizes that much more has been bitten off than can possibly be chewed. The results are evident - half-finished paintjobs that leave some walls in one color while others sport another; flooring has been exposed but never finished; kitchen cabinets are leaning against the wall yet will not be anchored in for weeks or perhaps months. Sadly, many a homeowner neglected to receive some sound remodeling tips prior to embarking on their tasks. To this end, here are some tips and tricks that will you to get off to a good start, before you actually pick up your checkbook or your tools!



One of the first remodeling tips that are usually neglected is the fact that it should have a general appeal. Granted, this may be common sense, yet it is astounding how many homeowners add or take away from their homes in such a way that a future sale is compromised. While the homeowner may think that a purple bathroom with yellow handprints is just darling, the potential buyer who tours the house two years down the line will probably wrinkle his nose at this décor faux pas. In the same way, if you decide to add on to your home, do it with an eye on the investment potential. In other words, do not do a half-fast job yourself, but instead pull the proper permits and hire licensed contractors to at least take a look before the building inspector stops by.



Experts have a tool box full of different small bathroom remodeling ideas, but most can be grouped into two categories: creating light and creating visual space. The illusions of space and light complement each other and expand a small space. Anyone who has tried to apply makeup in a small dark room knows how important light is, and it's created in a variety of ways, both natural and artificial. Natural light comes from windows, skylights, and any other opening that allows sun into the space. Whenever possible, windows should be left uncovered or only lightly covered by a filmy white or light-colored window covering. Paint colors from the cool end of the color spectrum reflect and enhance natural light, as do mirrors and light-colored flooring. Even a light-colored, inexpensive rug used to cover a dark floor can brighten up a space. Artificial light, originating from ceiling lights, wall sconces or lamps, can also brighten a space when employed artfully. Recessed lighting, which creates the illusion of space as well as light, could also be a viable option for you. Just be sure to use artificial light that is bright without being oppressive. Look in your home and garden store for special bulbs that can be used to effectively diffuse the light.



Other remodeling tips include the popularity versus functionality of a desired item, as well as value for the items. For example, just because recessed lighting is the latest fad, it may not be the lighting of choice for the bathroom where it may create dark spots and shade in undesirable areas. In addition to the foregoing, the value of the items purchased should remain intact, thus adding value to the home rather than simply costing money. Thereafter it is a smart idea to do a bit of research to see where home decorating trends are headed. Some old time favorites, such as ceiling tiles or even marble counter tops, are becoming a thing of the past, and if you are wondering about adding value to your home it is best to decorate with the market in mind. Naturally, not all homeowners will look to sell their properties within the next few years or until after the next remodel, yet this rule of thumb is certain to add value to the biggest investment you will ever make rather than just drain the bank account.



Hopefully these remodeling tips have added a little bit of common sense to the mix of weekend projects and large undertakings, and the next time you contemplate a project, please be sure to think it through from beginning to end before your jump into the car to head to the local big box store for supplies!


Author Bio

About the Author:
M. Johnsona operates a variety of collectible websites and newsletters. Visit the website for many coin collecting tips. http://www.remodelingtipcenter.com/


Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/


On-Demand Water Heating from Efficent Tankless Water Heaters

By: Jack Russell


With the rising energy costs there has been an increase in interest for energy saving appliances. Efficent "tankless" water heaters have become very popular for their capability to heat hot water on demand, with no storage tank required. Instead of holding water in a traditional water tank, they circulate the cold water through a series of electrically heated coils that warm the water as it moves pass this heat source. This newer process of warming water requires more expensive equipment than the conventional water heater, but this money is regained in the long term with energy efficiency savings. The energy savings is mainly gained from no longer needing to heat an entire tank of water.



Since the tankless water heaters do not store hot water but rather constantly heat water as it is demanded, they do not run out of hot water. There is one exception, to this "endless" supply of heated water. The flow rate is limited. In other words if you simultaneously use more water than the flow of the water heater (i.e. 3 people showering at one time) you will receive unheated water.



Since conventional water heater stores the water together in a large tank it is able to provide water at a set temperature. Tankless water heaters differ in this aspect since they are dependent upon the incoming water temperature and the flow rate. The incoming water temperature can vary greatly from summer to winter. The capacity of a tankless water heater is generally measured by how many temperature degrees it can increase water temperature by gallons per minute (gpm). Most tankless water heaters are powered by gas to better handle the heat output and response time required. These gas powered water heaters require proper venting, normally more venting than the older, conventional water heaters required. If you are replacing a conventional electric water heater tank, you may want to add a power vent in the side of the wall. This would be the less costly alternative if there is no existing roof vent. Some of the smaller and more portable single-fixture units are powered electrically.


Author Bio

Jack Russell is a retired construction worker who spends his free time as a freelance writer for sites like http://www.foremansfinder.com/ - an industrial resource site.


Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/


Second Mortgage

By: Mike Hamel


A second mortgage can be the first step to climbing out of debt, especially for homeowners who have bad credit. A second mortgage is a loan taken out in "second position" on a property that already has a mortgage. There are fixed-rate loans, adjustable-rate loans and home equity lines of credit (also known as HELOCs). Fixed-dollar-amount mortgages are the way to go when you need all the money at once. A HELOC is a credit line that can be drawn upon as needed up to the limit of the loan.



"Bad Credit" Second Mortgages

Your right to credit is guaranteed by the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. You can't be denied credit based on race, gender, marital status or ethnicity. But how much money you can borrow and how much interest you will be charged will depend on your credit score.



Credit is easy to get and hard to control. Not using it properly will get you a low FICO score from the three major credit bureaus. Generally, a score of 680 or better signifies good credit. Scores in the 680-620 range are still considered good, but will cause creditors to take a second look before lending you money. 620 and lower, and you are in the bad credit range.



Here are some indications that you are in bad credit territory:



  • You have to apply for new credit cards to pay off old ones, thus rotating but not retiring your debt.


  • You can only make the minimum payments on your loans and cards each month.


  • You are at the limit on all your cards and accounts.


  • You have to get subprime financing when you need to borrow money.




Improving Your Financial Situation

It's a catch 22 that getting a bad credit second mortgage can lower your FICO score initially, but it can also help raise it in the long run-if you use the money to pay off high interest debts. This new loan doesn't reduce your debt; it just restructures it to help you get back on your feet financially. An added bonus is that the interest you pay is tax deductible. The IRS says joint filers can deduct all the interest to a maximum of $100,000 on home mortgages.



It's easy to shop and compare bad credit second mortgages online at reputable sites like www.badcreditsecondmortgages.com. The no-obligation application process is quick and confidential. Interest rates are still relatively low, but might rise in 2006, so now is a great time to see if a second mortgage is a good financial move for you.


Author Bio

Mike Hamel is the author of several books and the Senior Writer for AIM Techs (http://www.salesandmarketingllc.com/), an Internet marketing company that specializes in improving visitor-to-sale conversions using proprietary software and advanced SEM techniques.


Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/


Our Aging Neighborhood

We have been talking about refinancing this old country home and taking out extra money to finance a complete remodel. Before we can do that we need to figure out a few things. Is it worth it? Do we like the neighborhood now? The neighborhood was getting older, but now everyone is selling out and a new younger neighborhood is sprouting up around us. We can hear the neighbor kids when they are out playing and it sounds like there are a lot of kids living near us. Do we want to move into an older neighborhood where there are fewer kids?

I know we will have the grandkids over often so maybe the age of the neighborhood doesn't really matter. I think it does. We need to consider it as we decide what to do.

We have done a lot of work in the past couple weeks. The outside of the house looks so much better. We've been working in the landscaping, and on the house and deck. We had a tractor out here for a couple days and that made a huge difference in the amount of labor required to clear around the trees.

This is a lot of work, but we can see progress.

Our Old Country Home