In Home Decor, Less is More

When you live in a small space, especially if you are a renter, it’s often difficult to keep your home streamlined. Clean lines and simple design aren’t achieved easily. The key is to avoid overcrowding so your space can sing.

Editing a space is a trade secret of quality interior decorating. Here are some tricks for redecorating using items you already have. You’ll be amazed how a quick rearrangement can change your perspective.

Color-matching vibe

End tables often become a magnet for magazines, keys, office supplies and more.

Before: Haphazardly grouped items disrupt the space’s visual harmony

Get rid of the debris, then discourage it from accumulating again by grabbing a few favorite titles with color-matching bindings and stacking them to create a sweet, concise arrangement. Add interest by introducing an item with personal significance, like a camera or vase.

After: A monochromatic display and minimal embellishment create a stylish vignette

You’ve already got the materials for this easy update, and even a small edit can have big impact. Your space will instantly look bigger and cleaner.

Clear out the clutter

The dining room table and office spaces can quickly become cramped or overcrowded.

Before: Items spread over the dining table make the space look smaller

Clear off your pop-up office and unopened mail, and replace the mess with one seasonal arrangement on the table.

Large palm fronds in a tall glass vase make for an eye-catching centerpiece. Putting natural wood near metal accents creates a contrast in textures. This large custom wood table next to the radiator screams brownstone charm.

After: A single arrangement on the table provides a focal point and sense of openness

Streamlining is an amazing way to draw the eye to your home’s accents. The age-old Coco Chanel saying to take one accessory off applies to your surfaces as well as your outfits.

Paint it white

The trend a few decades ago was to surprise with loud bursts of colors and accent walls. While bold colors have their place in the design world, the trend of the moment is simple white.

But don’t think going with white limits your options. It’s not your mother’s eggshell anymore, and you can really express yourself with this powerful neutral. For example, Sherwin-Williams offers tons of shades, like Ice Cube, Opera Glass, and Medici Ivory.

A white backdrop brings the spotlight back to your amazing home. Whether you highlight its delightfully worn hardwood floors or boldly accented side pieces, your space can act as a canvas to show off all the furniture and personal touches you’ve added through the years.

Make a sale

If you’ve got old books, records or dishware taking up valuable space, there are tons of ways to make sure these unwanted items find a good home.

Use websites like Krrb.com to sell or trade your unwanted home furnishings. Even an old-fashioned yard (or, in this case, stoop) sale can keep your discarded belongings out of the landfill.

They’ll become someone else’s treasures — and you’ll clear some space and make a little cash.

Related:

• Styling Bar Carts: 4 Irresistible Looks
• Before & After: Gloomy Garage to Light and Airy Kitchen
• A 3-Step Trick for Mixing Patterns Perfectly

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Win $25,000 Toward a Down Payment on a New House

Starting today, Zillow and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” are teaming up to offer a lucky winner the chance to put $25,000 down on a new home.

To enter now, just complete a short entry form for one chance to win.

And while you’re there, tell us what home means to you and your family. How would winning $25,000 toward the down payment on a new home change your life?

With millions of homes for sale and for rent, plus photo galleries, historical pricing data, calculators and more, Zillow makes it easy to find – and finance – the one that’s right for you.

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House of the Week: A Boulder House With Petroglyphs

It’s easy to see why the Fort McDowell Yavapai nation of Native Americans bought this house in Scottsdale, AZ.

The stone walls bear ancient petroglyphs, including rare sculptural forms, and create sacred spaces where sunlight plays during equinoxes.

A couple from the Northwest built the home in the early 1980s — if “build” is the word for pouring concrete among Precambrian granite boulders and cutting windows to fit the unusual contours of weathered stone.

They lived there more than two decades, then sold it in the mid-2000s to the Fort McDowell Yavapai nation, which expected to use it as a retreat center but found it was too far from their community. It’s now on the market for $4.2 million.

Looking at the pile of boulders, it’s hard at first to pick out the 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath home among them.

It sits on 9 acres in the Sonoran Desert and includes amenities that prehistoric people would have enjoyed — fireplaces and mountain views — plus some they would not, such as double ovens, a super-wide stainless steel refrigerator and a master suite with a combined deep tub and shower.

The guest room has a private patio entrance and a natural fireplace with scorch marks believed to have been left by Native American encampments.

These boulder formations also created the landscape of the famous Boulders Resort & Spa nearby, said Preston Westmoreland, the listing agent with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

Related:

• Green Luxury Homes on the Market
• An Off-the-Grid Bunker With a Soft Side
• 3 Tips for When Your House Goes Viral

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How to Get Started in Real Estate Investing

There’s no reason amateur real estate investors can’t profit from small, individual property purchases. With home values currently rising 3.9 percent year-over-year, and expected to rise another 2.6 percent over the next year, why not allocate some of your savings toward real estate?

To get started off on the right foot, you’ll need to make some decisions. Follow these steps prior to entering the real estate market.

Assess your current finances

Typically, financial professionals advise buyers put down at least 20 percent of a home’s purchase price. But to avoid being responsible for two mortgages, many investors wait until they can pay for real estate outright. Obviously this requires a large savings, but to skip the lender and avoid interest rates you might opt for a foreclosure listed below the local market median.

If you do need a mortgage, you might consider living in your investment property to take advantage of owner-occupant rates. You don’t have to live there forever, either. Lenders typically require just one year of residency to lock in the lower rate for the remainder of the mortgage. Owner-occupied interest rates are much more favorable than secondary home or rental property loans.

For those fortunate enough to purchase multiple income properties simultaneously, it’s important to choose the right financing.

“We recommend our clients leverage their investment capital using cheap 30-year fixed-rate mortgages and buy as many income-producing properties as possible. This is how they accelerate their wealth-building with our turnkey properties,” says Marco Santarelli of Norada Real Estate Investments.

Determine the potential cash flow

House flipping shows can make quick profits look easy. Typically, most homeowners don’t profit when they sell shortly after closing. Of course, a major renovation on a flipped home increases the potential for short-term profit, but such extensive upgrades are going to cost a lot of money. Unless you’re capable or experienced in large-scale home improvements, don’t assume you can flip a house by yourself to benefit immediately.

Renting out the property, on the other hand, is more of a long-term strategy. Pricing requires some serious calculations to attract the largest number of possible tenants, while still covering the mortgage and homeownership costs. Although you’ll aim for profit in the beginning, the real money usually flows in after the mortgage is paid.

“When I calculated my potential cash flow from renting out my house I started with Zillow,” says Andy Prescott of Art of Being Cheap. “I looked at Zillow’s rental estimate to see how much income I could expect. Since I was renting out the home I was already living in, I knew exactly what my mortgage, insurance and tax payments would be, and had a pretty good idea how much I would spend on repairs. So I subtracted all my expected payments from my expected income to get my expected cash flow. If that number had been close to zero, I would have been nervous about unexpected expenses, but since I had a few hundred dollars cushion I knew renting my home out would work out well,” Prescott says.

Today’s rental market is notoriously expensive, and competition among lessees is high. Even if you’re not looking to be a landlord long-term, it could be financially wise to rent out your unit at least until median sale prices in the region peak.

Decide on your investment type

Many investors default to considering individual direct ownership as their only way to profit from real estate. However, partnerships (both close and limited) and publicly-traded investment trusts are designed to help investors who might not have the time, or the skills, to run real estate investments on their own. Partnerships can benefit individuals with similar investment interests who aren’t quite ready to dive in solo. Real estate investment trusts (REITs), on the other hand, enable investors to fund multiple projects simultaneously without the hassle of day-to-day management.

“REITs behave in a certain respect like stocks (potential for capital appreciation/loss) and in certain respects like bonds (high levels of current income),” says Rich Ellinger of Wealthminder. “These somewhat unique properties, combined with the ability to raise rents on the underlying properties in inflationary times, mean that REITs behave a little differently than other types of investments. Although subject to economic fluctuation, REITs have performed well in the past few decades. Over the past 20 years, REITs have appreciated approximately 13 percent per year — the top among all equity classes,” Ellinger says.

Unsurprisingly, your financial capabilities, estimated profit margins and choice of investment are all interconnected. Whether you’re starting out with $10,000 or a million, staying informed in the real estate industry — even as a passive investor — is a key to success.

Related:

• Top 10 Real Estate Investor Mistakes
• Investing: Risks and Benefits
• Why Cash Flow Is King in Investing

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Capture Craftsman Style in Your Home

The Craftsman style evolved from the English Arts & Crafts movement, which was a natural turning point from the overly formal and perhaps stifling Victorian era. When brought to the United States, it became known as the “Craftsman” style, and the movement’s theme was “honesty of design.”

That honesty comes from hand-hewn items, fine workmanship, harmony with nature and simplicity of living. Traditional 1910-1930 bungalows with tapered square column porches, low eaves and shingles can be seen across the country today.

Even if your home doesn’t have an inglenook or plenty of built-in bookcases, you can still bring the honesty of design into your home by incorporating Craftsman touches into your decor.

Earth tones

One of the trademarks of Craftsman style is the earthy tones used inside and outside the home. Inspired by nature’s color palette, muted browns, grays, greens and amber hues are popular. Rich reds and oranges serve as brighter shades in the style.

Stained glass

Source: Pompei Stained and Fused Glass

Stained glass is another way to bring warm light and earth tones to the interior of a house. Try incorporating hanging or standing panels or stained-glass lamps. For the full effect, consider replacing a few window panels, particularly bay windows, with Craftsman-inspired stained glass.

Warm wood accents

Source: Shop Wright

Wood, particularly oak, is one of the major trademarks of the Craftsman style. The wood allowed true craftsmanship to come through in joinery and details. Frank Lloyd Wright, whose architecture was “eloquent and humane,” enjoyed using the natural elements of wood in unique ways, such as this lamp from his famous Taliesin III home. The warm light reflects off the warm wood to bring a comforting glow to any room.

Leaves and stylized botanical prints

Source: Arts and Craftsman Woodworks

Since closeness with nature is such a large part of the Craftsman heritage, anything with oak leaves, acorns, Gingko leaves or other natural elements instantly brings harmony to the room. This hand-carved sign instantly shows off Craftsman style and the handmade touch that makes it so appealing.

Copper and bronze details

Copper and oil-rubbed bronze seamlessly integrate with the warm woods of the Craftsman style. Cabinet hardware, lighting and other accessories in brighter metals can easily be replaced with these warm tones. Hand-hammered or botanical-inspired pieces that show off the workmanship and detail of the artist are especially appropriate.

Stone and brick

Source: Nordic House

Stone and brick feature prominently on the outside and inside of most Craftsman homes. They are particularly important around a central fireplace, another feature of Craftsman style. But they can be incorporated into other areas, too. Garden or tabletop accents such as tall slate oil lamps are a unique touch in the same shape as Craftsman columns and add even more warm light.

Water features

Source: Overstock

Water is an important element of nature and incorporates well into Craftsman interiors. Small indoor waterfalls or tabletop rock gardens with waterfalls bring the elements of natural sounds into your home. This unique waterfall sink brings a little bit of Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic “Fallingwater” to any bathroom. Oil-rubbed bronze and an organic-form amber bowl are sure to be a focal point.

Built-in storage

Built-in storage was immensely popular in Craftsman style. While your own home many not have any of these decorative storage units, you can easily create some. Use simple bookcases and storage cubbies to create the feel of built-ins (and offer extra space, too). This looks particularly great around any windows or doors.

Cultivate outdoor spaces

Well-cared for, luscious outdoor spaces with plants, stone, wood trellises and more will complete the Craftsman style for your home. Hang lights, use natural planters, and create an outdoor space that is in harmony with nature.

Whether you are renovating a classic bungalow to its former glory or just bringing a bit of nature-inspired design to your current home, the welcoming simplicity of Craftsman style is timeless.

Related:

• Craftsman Homes: ‘Honest’ Design for Middle America
• 10 Well-Crafted Craftsman Homes Starting at $104,900
• Nature-Inspired Spring Accessories for Under $75

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Phillies' Cliff Lee Pitches Rittenhouse Condo With a Sweet Ride

Sidelined with an elbow injury, Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cliff Lee has listed his condo for $6.9 million.

The 4,166-square-foot, full-floor residence at 1706 Rittenhouse Sq has 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms — and a chauffeur-driven Mercedes S-550. That’s right. If you buy Lee’s place, you’ll get to enjoy the city of brotherly love in a fancy new ride.

“…I go gaga for a beautiful condo on the Ritt, and this one is nothing short of spellbinding,” writes local real estate agent Frank L. DeFazio of the CenterCity Team. With an open floorplan, sun-drenched living room and crisp-white granite counter tops — it’s Philadelphia luxury living at its best.

Center City — particularly around Rittenhouse and Washington Squares — has seen its share of famous residents over the years, including Phillies second baseman Chase Utley.

According to Philly.com, the building’s 31st-floor penthouse set a record with a $12 million sale in 2010. In addition to a chauffeur, shared amenities include a 24-hour concierge, indoor pool, fitness center and a residents’ garden with a koi pond.

The listing is held by Laurie Phillips of Bershire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS®.

Photos by Herb Englesberg and Nancy Nolan

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Before & After: Gloomy Garage to Light and Airy Kitchen

This kitchen space started out as a single-car garage, but had been poorly converted to a bedroom. Carpet had been glued straight over cement. Cheap paneling had been put over the studs and was hanging off in places.

Before: The single-car garage had been poorly renovated for use as a bedroom.

Regardless of the final use, this space was in desperate need of a little TLC. But being the largest room in the house and backing up to the living room made it the perfect spot for a kitchen where family could gather and entertain. Converting it to the heart of the home required several key phases.

First, the long wall separating this room from the living room was removed. A beam and wooden columns were used in the opening, creating a rustic vibe. The dark wood beam creates contrast and effectively frames the white kitchen.
An all-white palette was used for the new kitchen space. Floor-to-ceiling white beadboard walls went up for texture and a little vintage charm. White lower cabinets went in, along with a white farmhouse sink.
White and stainless open shelves were used in place of upper cabinets for a modern take on the traditional open shelving found in farmhouse kitchens. Open shelving in the kitchen creates a sense of airiness, and provides easy access and display space for everyday dishes and glassware.

The focal point of this kitchen is the large live-edge wood island that anchors the room. The blue-green base gives the white kitchen a welcome pop of color, and the island top not only warms up the white, but also creates a convenient and attractive workspace.
Accessories like a colorful patterned rug and vintage glassware on the shelves bring personality into the all-white room.

Now that this room is a beautiful and well-functioning kitchen, no one would ever guess it started out as a dirty and outdated garage.

See more great kitchen design ideas.

Photos by The White Buffalo Styling Co.

Related:

• DIY Kitchen Cabinet Makeover
• Increase Your Home’s Value in 5 Easy Steps
• 8 DIY Ways to Redo Your Bathroom (Without Remodeling)

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$150,000 Homes Equipped for Outdoor Enjoyment

With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about where to host barbecues, send the kids for some outdoor fun, or simply enjoy a mild, starlit evening.

Towering pergolas and sleek swimming pools — we’ve got them. Priced at approximately $150,000, the 10 following metropolitan area listings offer desirable outdoor living features, without breaking the bank.

Chattanooga, TN

3909 Memphis Dr, Chattanooga, TN
For sale: $129,000

In addition to updates like new appliances and refinished hardwood floors, this 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home boasts a beautiful custom covered deck and outdoor kitchen.

See more homes for sale in Chattanooga.

Houston, TX

2667 Skyview Trace Ct, Houston, TX
For sale: $145,000

This picturesque 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home draws you in with major curb appeal, but the serene backyard is the real star. Complete with various fruit trees, gardens, and a hammock, it’s the perfect place to exercise a green thumb or take a sunny nap.

See more homes listed in Houston.

Lexington, KY

2276 Remington Way, Lexington, KY
For sale: $130,000

With numerous attractive amenities throughout the interior and exterior, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home has it all. Equipped with a playset and trampoline, the massive backyard will become a favorite playdate destination.

See more homes for sale in Lexington.

Augusta, GA

2522 Springwood Ct, Augusta, GA
For sale: $142,522

Equipped with a generously-sized indoor wet bar and an expansive outdoor entertainment pavilion, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is destined to be the top choice when it comes to summer gatherings.

See more Augusta homes for sale.

Richmond, VA

2102 North Ave, Richmond, VA
For sale: $135,000

This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts plenty of yard space, but sometimes, a simple porch is all you need to greet your daily sunrise and sunset.

See more homes for sale in Richmond.

Birmingham, AL

720 48th St S, Birmingham, AL
For sale: $142,900

This 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home exudes character, starting with the foliage-bordered entrance and continuing throughout the home’s many tasteful design elements. The spacious fenced-in backyard features a large deck and plenty of gardening areas.

See more Birmingham homes for sale.

Springfield, IL

130 Glasgow Dr, Springfield, IL
For sale: $125,000

Sip your morning coffee on the cozy front porch, and relax on the backyard patio with your evening fare. The interior of this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home also offers many comforts, with hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances placed in an open floor plan.

See more Springfield homes for sale.

Spokane, WA

6807 N Capri Ln, Spokane, WA
For sale: $149,900

This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home has been upgraded with tile and granite in the kitchen and bath, but the patio covered with a wood and turquoise-toned pergola is the real showstopper.

See more homes listed in Spokane.

Indianapolis, IN

5145 Brookstone Ln, Indianapolis, IN
For sale: $139,900

For those working on a tan or looking to entertain, the huge backyard and spacious deck of this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home is an ideal retreat. The porch swing serves as an ideal place to beat the heat of a sweltering summer day.

See more listings in Indianapolis.

Saint Louis, MO

4091 Haven St, Saint Louis, MO
For sale: $150,000

This whimsical 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home has a stunning interior, with a spacious gourmet kitchen and beautiful hardwood floors throughout. The backyard does not fail to please — take a dip in the swimming pool or unwind on the large patio.

See more Saint Louis listings.

Related:

• What $225,000 Buys You in 10 Cities
• Homes for Sale: What $175,000 Can Buy You
• 10 Well-Crafted Craftsman Homes Starting at $104,900

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