THE HOME ADVISOR
November 2009
Courtesy of:
Jo Alonso
J.P. Weigand & Sons
REALTOR
327 E. Madison
Derby, KS 67037
Bus: 316 788-5581
Cell: 316 518-8510
Fax: 316 788-8928
Email: josalonso@cox.net
INFORMATION HOTLINE
www.marble-institute.com
Marble Institute of America
440-250-9222

www.pdca.org
Painting and Decorating Contractors of America
800-332-7322
Timesavers
Shine stainless steel with olive oil. Many cleaning products contain ammonia that can dull and even corrode chrome and stainless steel. You will fine that olive oil is a safe, effective and easy-to-use shining agent.
Shop Smart
Save on car purchases
Keep cars longer instead of trading every few years. Not only does the cost of new cars rise each year, but cars depreciate quickly, and when you trade frequently, you lose money on low trade-in values. Buy a good quality car and keep it for 5 to 7 years. On your next purchase, consider a certified pre-owned car to save more money.
I hope you enjoyed The Home Advisor.
I hope you enjoyed this edition of the Home Advisor, it is my pleasure to provide it for you. Share it with your friends and family. Please consider me your neighborhood real estate expert. I'm happy to answer any questions or assist you in any way I can.

Please email me at josalonso@cox.net for any questions about real estate. Thank you.
Your Home Project
8 top projects for improving your home

Owning a home is the "American Dream." Once you own a home. it's important to improve and maintain your home for your to enjoy—and to get the best resale value.

1 Paint can transform the look of a room. Experiment with colors and be creative when tackling ceilings, walls, door, trim and baseboards.
2 Remove old wallpaper that can make a home look older than it is. Consider using a professional steamer to avoid harmful chemicals.
3 Add depth with wainscoting. There are a myriad of choices in size and styles to place wainscoting part way up a wall to make a room appear larger.
4 Put down tile in the kitchen or bath—There are many choices and price ranges. Some homeowners use tile throughout the main areas of the house for a sophisticated look that makes the house seem larger.
5 Read the directions! Get a book that details common home improvement and repair projects. You will have a more successful outcome.
6 Get the tools you need. Why start a project without the correct tools and equipment?
7 File for necessary permits before you begin. Check with the homeowners' association and zoning authorities to see what permits may be necessary
8 Get professional help when you need it. At any time during a home project, if you feel you're in over your head, call a professional.
Call me for more ideas to enhance the value of your home investment.
Cost Buster Tip
Realize long-term savings by refinancing a 30-year mortgage to a 15-year fixed plan. A $100,000 mortgage at 9.5% over 15 year save $114,747 in interest expense. At 7.5% interest, the savings between a 30-year and 15-year mortgage of $100,000 would be $84,854. A 9% loan of $100,000, refinanced for 15 years at 7.5% would add $86/month to your payment but would save you $135,845 over the life of the loan.
Home Reminder   Exterior checkups:
Check and replace damaged caulking and weather stripping around all windows and doors. Check the exterior wood and trim for signs of deterioration. Clean and replace, or paint and refinish as needed.
 
Contact me for all your real estate needs at josalonso@cox.net
Courtesy of your neighborhood real estate professional.
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