Zillow's 2016 Forecast: Pricey, With a Chance of Suburbs

After a year of recovery, Zillow’s experts say 2016 will be all about housing affordability, with a lack of affordable homes near city centers pushing young and first-time buyers out to the suburbs.

“In 2016, we’ll start to see more people in hot coastal markets forced to move farther from the core of the city to find housing,” said Zillow Chief Economist Svenja Gudell. “When they get there, they’ll be looking for amenity-rich suburbs - mini-cities, with walkable cores and an urban feel.”

Zillow’s 2016 Housing Market Predictions

1. The median age of first-time home buyers will set a new record in 2016. Buyers are already about three years older, on average, than they were in the 1980s.
2. More low-income Americans will be priced out of homeownership. Home values are rising faster than incomes, so in 2016, the poorest Americans will be unable to afford even the least expensive homes.
3. Rents will soar in 2016, bringing the highest median rents ever.
4. People will move outside cities to find affordable homes, and that will change the suburbs. Hot spots for 2016 will be dense, walkable suburbs with urban amenities.
5. More than 100 economic and housing experts in the latest Zillow Home Price Expectations Survey pinned home value growth at about 3.5 percent in 2016.

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/zillow-2016-forecast-187561/
via Reveeo

Tiny Home in The Hamptons Lists for $550,000

Some people escape to The Hamptons to party, others to catch a wave.

Reading and basking and generally behaving like a writer on retreat appear to be the speed for this little cottage in the Long Island enclave of North Haven.

The 600-square-foot, rustic dwelling is listed for $550,000, which Curbed Hamptons says is about right for the neighborhood. It has two bedrooms and one bath, plus a free-standing artists’ studio.

Located an easy walking distance to shopping and beaches on Sag Harbor and Noyack bays, the home sits on a smidge more than a fifth of an acre, perfect for retreating into the quiet of nature - or for building a bigger home.

The listing agent is Mary Ann Cinelli of Brown Harris Stevens.

Related:

• Tiny Homes Under 400 Square Feet
• ‘Accessible’ Hamptons: A $1.2M Trailer Among the 1 Percent
• Could You Live ‘Tiny’? See How a Seattle Couple Found Room for Their Dreams

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/hamptons-tiny-home-lists-550000-187502/
via Reveeo

Should You List in January Or Wait for the Spring Selling Season?

Thousands of homeowners speak to their real estate agent this time of year to consider their sale options - typically for the spring. It takes a few months for the agent and seller to plan and prep to list the home, so starting now makes sense.

Over the years, I've asked sellers if they would consider listing their home in January, right after the first of the year. At first, they look at me like I’m crazy. "Who sells a home in the dead of winter?" they ask.

As it turns out, many sellers not only successfully make it happen, but actually end up better off. Here's why.

Buyers are out 24/7/365

In the past, buyers waited for spring to start their shopping because that's when the majority of listings hit the market for the spring selling season.

Today's buyers look at listings all day, every day. They have apps on their phone, get listings texted and emailed to them, and don't care about the time of year.

They’re looking for inventory, and will buy homes well before the spring. List your home in January, and you will have a captive audience.

Bonuses, inheritances and tax implications

Each year, real estate agents' phones ring come January. Previously active buyers want to re-engage, and new buyers come out of the woodwork. What causes this yearly phenomenon?

The end of the year often brings family events, financial activities and discussions about gifting for tax implications. Conversations about inheritances and taxes, money and homeownership seem to occur at many families’ holiday dinners.

Additionally, at year’s end, people take stock of their incomes, find out about work bonuses, and start thinking about whether they want to spend another year renting. Buyers start to take a second look at the tax implications of homeownership, too.

Whether it's a new buyer who moves quickly or a previously active buyer who re-engages, these house hunters are around in January and will look at your home if it’s for sale.

Where's the competition?

Typical sellers wait until spring to list. There's no doubt that visible grass, blooming flowerbeds, and a spotlight on outdoor areas make houses more inviting.

But that also means that there might be two or three similar houses for sale in your neighborhood or school district, in your price range. Thus, it changes the supply-and-demand balance.

You’re better off being the only game in town when it’s time to sell. The more homes on the market, the more the buyers spread out.

Buyers shopping in January understand that the home won't show as well as it does in the spring and summer months. Many of them don't care. Having photos of your home during these times of year will help them envision it in the warmer seasons.

If you’re a flexible seller - meaning that you aren't under any time restrictions or time frames to sell, and your home is already in showing condition - consider listing in mid- to late January. You can always control and negotiate your closing deadline with a buyer. If someone falls in love with the home, they may not mind waiting until April to close.

Also, many buyers have been at it for many months (sometimes years). So, come January, they are tired of open houses Sundays and the real estate hunt. This is your target buyer and, in part, they’re why it’s better to list in January than to wait until spring.

Related:

• 5 Tips for First-Time Home Sellers
• Don’t Be a Scaredy Cat About Selling Your Home
• 4 Ways to Tell How Fast Your Home Will Sell

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/list-in-january-or-wait-for-spring-187414/
via Reveeo

10 Ultra-Modern Homes Fit for the 'Hunger Games' Capitol

Whatever their shortcomings, residents of The Capitol in “The Hunger Games” undeniably have style. It’s clear from their clothing and their gleaming high-rises. Here’s a roundup of ultra-modern homes that envisions Capitol-style architecture outside the big city.

Provincetown Village, MA

6 Pilgrims Landing, Provincetown Village, MA
For sale: $3.399 million

Dune living doesn’t get any lovelier than this home overlooking a salt marsh and Cape Cod Bay. The ceilings soar, and the walls of glass ensure nature is visible from every angle.

See more homes for sale in Provincetown.

Ketchum, ID

214 Timber Ln, Ketchum, ID
For sale: $5.8 million

Set on 4.5 acres in the mountains, this luxury home spans more than 6,000 square feet and includes a wine room and a four-car garage.

Check out more listings in Ketchum.

Napa, CA

7830 Silverado Trl, Napa, CA
For sale: $19.95 million

Topping 8,000 square feet, this ultra-modern home sits on 60 acres in America’s wine country and boasts a home theater, infinity-edge pool and 2,000-bottle wine cave.

Check out more listings in the Napa area.

Sedona, AZ

105 Canyon Vista Rd, Sedona, AZ
For sale: $4.74 million

This home in the heart of red rock country uses natural materials and modern lines to create a work of art with stunning views.

Check out what else is on the market in Sedona.

Seattle, WA

2304 37th Ave SW, Seattle, WA
For sale: $2.385 million

Whatever the weather, this modern home’s enormous sliding glass doors let you take in views of Seattle, Puget Sound and the mountains.

See more homes for sale in Seattle.

Kula, HI

83 Ikena Kai Pl, Kula, HI
For sale: $2.75 million

From this home’s 20-foot atrium, you can take in lush gardens and a 50-foot infinity edge pool that seems to flow into the home.

Check out more homes on the market in Maui County.

Dana Point, CA

43 Beach View Ave, Dana Point, CA
For sale: $14.5 million

This coastal home is surrounded by water: a pool, fountain and water cascading down a tile glass wall. That’s in addition to the expansive ocean views visible through its glass walls and doors.

See more homes for sale in Dana Point.

Destin, FL

932 Bambi Dr, Destin, FL
For sale: $2.495 million

The glass entrance to this home opens into a three-story living space with walls of windows facing a bay. A floating staircase and high-design kitchen complete the contemporary artistic vibe.

Check out more homes for sale in Destin.

Boulder, CO

1133 Timber Ln, Boulder, CO
For sale: $8.9 million

Bringing nature indoors is a hallmark of modern architecture, and this home takes that literally with its indoor waterfall and faux starlit foyer.

View more listings in Boulder.

Jackson, WY

50 W Calliope Dr, Jackson, WY
For sale: $15 million

Built of concrete, glass and Kota stone imported from India, this low-slung, ultra-modern home calls to mind Frank Lloyd Wright, but with more modern materials and technology.

See what else is listed in Jackson.

Related:

• Tiny Homes Under 400 Square Feet
• People Who Live in (These 10) Glass Houses Should Throw Parties
• House of the Week: An Ultra-Modern Home Wrapped in Rubber

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/10-ultra-modern-homes-187171/
via Reveeo

What It's Really Like to Live in Boise

Whether you’re considering a long-term move to Boise or are planning a short term visit, the Boise real estate market is hot.

Boise offers a plethora of outdoor amenities, including stunning views of the Great Basin desert to the south, multiple rivers meandering throughout the city and the Rocky Mountains to the east. Additionally, this city includes several tight-knit communities where culture flourishes. Head to the Boise’s Basque Block for a unique meal, the Hyde Park Street Fair for local crafts or Table Rock for a scenic hike.

Check out the locals’ scoop on Boise’s best places to move, shop, dine and hike.

The Boise Train Depot

1. What’s the best free attraction in Boise?

I’ve always loved visiting the park outside the Boise Train Depot. Not only do you get to see an old Union Pacific train, but the park gives you a fantastic view of the city; it never fails to amaze me. - Mariella Hunt of Life, Literature, & Coffee 

First Thursday offers free wine sampling and art in Downtown Boise and has my vote for best free attraction. It is fun to taste different wines from the surrounding region and check out our local artists at the same time. It is a great way to spend an evening in downtown Boise. - Shari of Pure Grace Farm

The best free attraction would have to be Table Rock. I know hiking isn't for everyone, but you would be crazy to pass up on a Table Rock hike. It is a fairly easy hike; you'll see kids, parents, teenagers, grandparents and dogs making the trek on any given day. Once you get to the top you'll understand why Boise is called the City of Trees. It is absolutely breathtaking. - Deidre of Deidre Emme

2. What neighborhood would you move to if you’re seeking a beautiful view?

Quail Ridge, in the surrounding Boise foothills (or anything in the foothills for that matter!), offers stunning views of the entire Treasure Valley, but is a little pricey. If you're looking for a view of the foothills, choose a location in South Boise or Meridian on the Bench! - Annelise Rowe of Aunie Sauce

I would have to say anywhere in the North End. It isn't a view of the city, but it without a doubt the best view from your front porch. There is so much character on the North End because it is full of historic homes. The streets are lined with beautiful tall trees. And, as you drive down the streets, you feel like you just entered a movie. - Deidre of Deidre Emme 

3. What are your favorite potato toppings? 

The Great Potato Truck. Source: Deidre of Deidre Emme

Chili, sour cream and cheese. - Emily Benson of The Benson Street

I love my potatoes with classic chili, or else with a Peruvian cream called huancaina sauce; it’s a spicy cheese sauce traditionally served with potatoes and eggs. - Mariella Hunt of Life, Literature, & Coffee

I grew up putting homemade ranch dressing and grated cheese on my baked potatoes. I also love real bacon bits and steamed broccoli on mine with cheese! Mmmmm! - Tonia L. Clark of Whynotmom

4. What’s your favorite venue at the Hyde Park Street Fair?

Any or all of the food! Funnel cakes by far are my favorite! - Jess of Positively Oakes

Spending time in the Hyde Park area is always fun, but add a street fair with live music, great food and a wine garden … perfection. - Shari of Purse Grace Farms

5. Why do you think Boise was ranked #1 as the best city for kids? 

Home grown values and respect for others is ingrained in the Boisean culture, making it a safe place and a great environment to raise a family. - Shari of Pure Grace Farms

Boise may have a "big city" feel (a nice variety of events are always going on!), but overall the community is very much small-town minded. We look out for each other. - Linda Greaves of The Dragonfruit Diaries

6. What’s your favorite mural in “Freak Alley”?

Jess and family enjoying a mural at Freak Alley. Source: Jess of Positively Oakes

I absolutely love the MLK mural made of broken glass. It is stunning! - McKenzie Guymon of Girl Loves Glam

The Jimi Hendrix mural is unique because it is constructed out of small mirrors. The poetry is also striking. - Mariella Hunt of Life, Literature, & Coffee

There are so many good ones up right now, and that happens to be one of my favorite spots to walk to when I'm downtown. Recently, I can't get over this colorful, monster-themed mural by Dane Goodwin. The pastel shades chosen are playful. Cartoon monsters are so fun! - Linda Greaves of The Dragonfruit Diaries

7. What’s your favorite restaurant on Boise’s Basque Block? What would you order?

I actually love Epi’s which is in downtown Meridian (near Boise). The mushroom soup is the best I’ve EVER had to this day! - Tonia L. Clark of Whynotmom

The Basque Market! Order the paella … it’s divine! They only serve it on Wednesdays and Fridays at noon for lunch or Thursdays for dinner at 6:00 PM. Be sure to be there right on time because they sell out quick! - Annelise Rowe of Aunie Sauce

8. Would you rather visit Bogus Basin Mountain during the summer or winter?

Winter. The snow is just as nice as the snow in Sun Valley, only you aren’t paying the price of a “celebrity” ski hill! - McKenzie Guymon of Girl Loves Glam

Summer — technically FALL, the leaves are falling and it's gorgeous! Go up there on a fall night with hot cocoa and blankets and it's so much fun to watch the stars! - Jess of Positively Oakes 

9. What’s your favorite item at the Boise Farmer’s Market?

Deidre enjoying food at the Boise Farmer’s Market. Source: Deidre of Deidre Emme

This may be odd, but there's this lady who sells really cute, handmade soaps. My most recent purchase was a white tea and ginger soap that resembles a cupcake more than a bar of soap! - Linda Greaves of The Dragonfruit Diaries

There is the best booth with handmade wood signs that are full of great quotes and a lot of different designs that have to do with Idaho pride. I love that people can celebrate this great state in their decor. - McKenzie Guymon of Girl Loves Glam

I can't get enough of the fresh baked croissants at the Boise Farmer's Market. I head straight for them whenever I am there. The next step is coffee. After that I can take my time and meander as I fill up my basket. There is always something new to see. I am a huge fan. - Shari of Pure Grace Farms

10. What’s your favorite downtown boutique? Why?

Apricot Lane! They have cute style, are priced well and have a lot to choose from for the whole family! - Jess of Positively Oakes

There are a lot of fun shops downtown that you will be drawn to because the name is familiar, but my favorite is Swank Boutique because it is unique to Boise. They've got a little of everything to make you feel like you entered a different shop than any other in downtown. Plus they have a Swank a-go-go truck which brings the boutique around town which I think is the most fun feature! - Deidre of Deidre Emme

11. Since it’s nicknamed the City of Trees, what’s your favorite hike in Boise?

Oh wow, there are so many great hiking places here. My favorite by far would have to be Table Rock. But if you go make sure you get there just as the sun is setting for a superb view! But bring flashlights for the hike back down! - Tonia L. Clark of Whynotmom

We like to hike at the Military reserve downtown, because there are cool rock formations such as Elephant Rock. There are some nice creeks there. A few creeks run beside beautiful red, iron-filled rock faces; the striking colors of those rocks are a memorable landmark. It’s also fun to hike Table Rock because of the view of the city. The caves up on top are fun to explore; it’s a challenging hike, but worth it. - Mariella Hunt of Life, Literature, & Coffee

12. What’s the best way to spend an afternoon on the Boise Greenbelt?

Drop your bikes at Joe's Crab Shack in Garden City. Maybe enjoy a margarita (or two!). Then bike east all the way to Lucky 13 and grab a slice of pie and a cookie. Don't worry, you'll burn off all those delicious calories on your bike back! - Annelise Rose of Aunie Sauce 

Floating the river is by far the best way to spend your time on the Greenbelt. The water temperatures can get cold for some, so I recommend going on a good hot summer day. Plan on it taking up about 3 to 4 hours of your day and bring snacks and drinks in a waterproof cooler you can put on your raft. The view along the way is worth every minute! - Tonia L. Clark of Whynotmom

13. What’s the best way to show your BSU football pride?

Annelise showing her true colors at BSU. Source: Annelise Rowe of Aunie Sauce

Be sure to go to a game and experience the blue turf in person — dressed in your Boise State gear of course. - Emily Benson of The Benson Street

Deck yourself out in blue and orange, and if you happen to own a horse head mask, rock it with pride! The home games are always very exciting and the amount of team spirit is incredibly infectious. You'll be swept away by the Bronco fans surrounding you! - Linda Greaves of The Dragonfruit Diaries 

14. What’s Boise’s next up and coming neighborhood? Why?

I believe Hidden Springs is the new up and coming neighborhood in Boise. Nestled in the foothills it offers lovely views and is close to a network of walking trails. The new housing, restaurants and schools nearby are sure to attract attention. It is easy to see how it could become the “place to be.” - Shari of Pure Grace Farms

Meridian! The corner of Linder and Chinden is alive and bustling with new commercial buildings and residential homes going in. You can bike to school, the store or a local eatery and it's very close to the new hoppin' place in town, The Village at Meridian.  - Annelise Rowe of Aunie Sauce

Related:

• 15 Reasons to Move to Reno, the Biggest Little City in the World
• What’s Hot in Phoenix
• Locals Share Their Spokane Secrets

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/life-in-boise-186489/
via Reveeo

Get a Black Friday Deal on a Home This Holiday Season

The day after Thanksgiving is universally known as the day to get started on holiday shopping and score big savings on the hottest gifts for friends and family.

But what about finding deals on a new home? It turns out, shoppers can get those, too. Zillow's second annual analysis on bargain home shopping is here, revealing the cities offering the biggest home discounts and the most price cuts.

Zillow looked at two metrics for the analysis: the actual home discount as a percentage of the original listing price, and the percentage of listings with a recent price cut, as of September 2015.

And now - drum roll, please - for the winners:

Detroit comes in at number one, for the second year in a row, as the city to get the biggest home discount. The median discount given on a home in Detroit is 16.7 percent. Detroit leads by a large margin; Cleveland, OH is the next-best city to get a discount, with a median discount of 7.6 percent.

Check out Albuquerque, NM and Omaha, NE for the greatest odds of finding a home with a price cut: 23.6 percent of homes in Albuquerque have a price cut, and 23.5 percent of homes in Omaha.

Below is the complete list of city winners. Happy Black Friday, and happy shopping!

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/black-friday-deal-on-a-home-187309/
via Reveeo

House of the Week: Ski Into This Log Home and Catch the Sunset

Growing up in New Jersey, Mike Donnelly used to sketch log homes with mountains behind them and the sun coming up.

Decades later, the Florida landscaper and his wife, Mary, built a house in Colorado that fits that bill — except it faces the sunset.

The 6,000-plus-square-foot log home in Steamboat Springs boasts 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, plus a detached guesthouse with a bedroom and loft — all with sweeping views of the Yampa Valley, beloved for its beauty and ski slopes.

It’s on the market for $4.95 million, and Donnelly is careful to explain that you can ski in, but not ski out. The home is a couple of blocks to the slope that leads to a gondola.

One of Donnelly’s favorite rooms is the octagonal “cocktail room” that sits at the corner of the house and has “such an awesome view, you could just hang there and have your coffee or morning devotions,” Donnelly said.

A second octagonal room sits off the master suite, and it’s dubbed the sunset room. There’s a second master suite on the upper level, beside a bar and pool room where the family and their guests also play cards and throw darts.

Donnelly says his porches are “the best in all of Steamboat Springs. I’m still in love with those views … I hear John Denver. ‘Rocky Mountain High’ plays in my head when I’m out on my porch just walking around.”

Twelve rock columns support the decks, matching the grand scale of the home’s giant logs. “Instead of the standard 12 or 16 inches, we did 18 to 24 inches, and it gives it such a strong-yet-pleasant look,” Donnelly said.

He’s proud of the landscaping, which includes boulder retaining walls and trees ranging from aspen to blue spruce to white pine and junipers.

The listing agent is Chris Paoli of The Paoli Group.

Photos by Roger Wade and David Patterson

Related:

• New England Estate With $500,000 Hockey Rink
• The Final Frontier: A USS Enterprise Theater Above a Garage Near Houston
• An Enchanted Treehouse With an Artist’s Touch

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/steamboat-log-home-187035/
via Reveeo

Nate Berkus & Jeremiah Brent Ask $10.5M for Their Greenwich Village Apartment

“We designed every square inch of it,” designer and television personality Nate Berkus told Architectural Digest when the magazine featured the Greenwich Village apartment he shares with his husband and fellow designer, Jeremiah Brent, and their daughter, Poppy.

They particularly love the double closet - “a monstrosity of a closet,” as Jeremiah put it - in the 3-bedroom, 3-bath spread, which they’ve listed for $10.5 million.

The light-filled penthouse is a duplex drenched in white with high, coffered ceilings and black and gold accents.

The home spans 2,800 square feet and includes a chef’s kitchen with skylights and an eight-burner range, a formal dining room and a wrought-iron staircase that leads to private living quarters below.

The master suite boasts a fireplace, that outrageous closet, and a master bath including dual sinks and a freestanding cast-iron tub.

Architectural Digest placed the home in a “beautiful stretch just above Washington Square Park, where the avenue begins and the surrounding prewar buildings are prized by those who seek elegance but also cherish the vitality, diversity and cultural heritage of Greenwich Village.”

The couple recently bought a house on the other coast, Variety reported.

The listing agent is Emily Beare of CORE.

Related:

• Nate Berkus Buys $5M NYC Penthouse While His LA Rental Seeks a Buyer
• Julia Roberts Rakes It in on Greenwich Village Pad
• No Joke: Amy Schumer Asks $2M for Manhattan Apartment

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/berkus-brent-list-greenwich-village-187287/
via Reveeo

12 Home Maintenance Tasks to Prep for Winter

Before the first signs of winter arrive, take the time to insulate your home against the coming cold season. Winterizing now, before the arrival of frigid weather, means that when it’s truly frightful outside, you can curl up by the fire and sip cocoa without disruption.

The following tips will help you keep the cold air out, the warm air in, and your home safe from storm damage.

1. Check out the chimney

Before hanging your stockings by the chimney with care, have it cleaned and inspected by a professional chimney sweep. Creosote and soot buildup, as well as other blockages, can lead to fires, so be sure the chimney cap is intact, and your chimney liner, firebox, smoke chamber, and damper are all in good working condition before you light the first log.

2. Warm your water heater

If you'd like to save up to nine percent in water-heating costs, wrap your water heater with an appropriately sized insulation blanket. Most hot water tanks are installed in unheated areas of the home, such as the basement or garage. The less a tank's heat escapes into its cold surroundings, the less energy it uses - and the more money you can keep in your pocket.

3. Seal cracks and crevices

Before the chill sets in, make sure all the cracks and crevices in your foundation have been filled to prevent your house from leaking heat and sucking up extra energy. Expandable foams work well to seal gaps in areas that are hard to reach or oddly shaped, or both.

4. Stop ice dams in their tracks

Before the first snow, take one last trip up to your roof to install an ice shield (and maybe even your holiday lights, if you're feeling ambitious). Ice shields, available at your local home improvement center, protect against ice dams - ridges of frozen water that form at the edge of a roof and prevent melting snow from draining - ultimately saving your roof from a whole host of seasonal problems.

5. Perform an energy audit

Schedule an energy audit with your local service provider to receive an analysis of inefficiencies that you may have overlooked in your own visual inspection. Some companies offer this service for free, but even if yours doesn’t, it's one walk-through that's worth the investment. This professional assessment can lead to upgrades that can lower future energy bills by anywhere from five to 30 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

6. Protect plants and shrubs

Ensure that your yard will still be intact after the season passes by securing your plantings properly. Insulate and shelter the foliage closest to your home from falling ice and snow by erecting a reusable A-frame structure made from 2x4s and exterior plywood. Tall and narrow greenery anywhere on your property could benefit from a simple twine wrap around the middle to keep individual branches from breaking under the weight of heavy snow accumulation. But snow isn't the only winter force to reckon with: Don't forget to protect small shrubs from strong gusts of wind by wrapping them with burlap and stapling the material to stakes.

7. Trick out your thermostat

Are you ready to bring your home into the 21st century? Try a smart thermostat. More than just smart technology, it's an intelligent investment. Many of the options on today's market can detect when family members return home, and modify the temperature accordingly - increasing the warmth and comfort when you're around, and lowering the temperature when you leave. The intuitive settings alone trim energy costs, and the availability of user-friendly, control-from-anywhere features can simplify home life.

8. Install weatherstripping

Eliminate potential drafts before they become a problem, and keep your indoor space extra cozy by sealing gaps around door and window frames with weatherstripping. Install door sweeps, which can prevent chills (and pests) from entering through the slim space underneath the door.

9. Prevent frozen pipes

Frozen pipes - and the waterworks, mess, and property damage that follow - top the list of the most formidable problems associated with subzero temperatures. Avert this winter nightmare by employing foam-rubber insulation to prevent the exposed metal from getting too cold.

10. Start your ceiling fans

Ceiling fans aren't just for use in the summertime - they’re also effective in winter. In the warmer months, your fans should be set to rotate counterclockwise for a cooling downdraft. Winter requires a switch-up: Reverse the rotation so your blades spin clockwise to distribute warm air back down. And while you’re up there flipping the switch, it’s not a bad idea to dust a little, too.

11. Trim back trees

Large branches that loom over rooftops and power lines could cause problems if they collect enough snow and ice during the winter storm season. Overburdened, they may snap under the heavy weight, fall, and seriously damage whatever lies beneath. Save yourself some hassle and trim your branches back at the end of autumn to avoid these threats.

12. Replace furnace filters

The proper functioning of your heating system and furnace becomes paramount during cold winter months, when it’s vital that you stay warm and comfortable in your home. The starting point for regular maintenance is easy: Change your furnace filters often. Dirty filters restrict airflow and increase energy demand. Change fiberglass or paper furnace filters every one to two months; an electrostatic or HEPA filter can be cleaned or changed closer to every two to four months. If you stock up on filters ahead of time, you'll always have a supply on hand to keep your energy system in tip-top condition.

Related:

• Are You Covered If Winter Weather Damages Your Home?
• Find and Fix Drafty Windows to Save Money This Winter
• Make Your Home Less Prone to Falls from Ice and Snow on Walkways

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/tasks-to-prep-for-winter-187099/
via Reveeo

Home Markdowns: 9 of the Biggest Price Cuts

With Black Friday around the corner, big-budget items on holiday wish lists are finally finding their way into our price ranges. What if we told you that the same irresistible deals in your local department store are also present in the real estate market?

Motivated sellers are looking for someone to show their home some holiday love. Check out the following nine listings, offering some of the biggest price cuts in the country.

Alfred, NY

5399 Elm Valley Rd, Alfred, NY
For sale: $278,900

46.3% off

Yearning for the countryside? This remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is nestled on 44 acres and comes with a bank barn, storage barn, and horse barn.

See more homes for sale in Alfred.

Vero Beach, FL

2505 89th Ct, Vero Beach, FL
For sale: $69,999

45.7% off

If you're searching for a quiet family neighborhood, look no further than this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home, outfitted with new paint, vaulted ceilings, and an updated kitchen.

See more listings in Vero Beach.

Desdemona, TX

610 County Road 428, Desdemona, TX
For sale: $395,000

41% off

Fifteen sprawling acres are all yours with ownership of this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home. The spaciousness of this home comes from an open concept living room, kitchen, and dining room.

See more Desdemona homes for sale.

Fitchburg, MA

371 Sheldon Rd, Fitchburg, MA
For sale: $599,000

40.1% off

Nurtured by the same family for 90 years, Hillside Farm is home to this 19th-century farmhouse. The charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home has been updated with modern amenities and is situated on 91 acres.

See more Fitchburg homes for sale.

Sarasota, FL

1310 Old Stickney Point Rd #E21, Sarasota, FL
For sale: $1.199 million

40% off

Giving new meaning to the term "staycation," this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom condo offers panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway and comes with a 46.9-foot boat slip. Part of the gated Del Sol community, this home comes with a private 2.5-car garage and access to a resort-like clubhouse.

See more homes for sale in Sarasota.

Knoxville, TN

4143 Kirkstone Ln, Knoxville, TN
For sale: $899,900

39.6% off

Find solace in this Tuscany-style estate home tucked away on 53.4 acres with breathtaking Great Smoky Mountain views. This custom-built, 5-bedroom, 5-bath home is an outdoors lover's paradise, equipped with a saltwater swimming pool, vegetable garden, apple orchard, stocked fishing pond, and horse barns.

See more Knoxville homes for sale.

Flossmoor, IL

1401 Braeburn Ave, Flossmoor, IL
For sale: $800,000

38.5% off

This sprawling, 7-bedroom, 6-bathroom home is ready for some serious family cooking, boasting an indoor chef's kitchen and a patio with a restaurant-quality outdoor kitchen, including a wood-burning brick pizza oven. In addition to the 5,500 square feet of living space, the 2,000-square-foot lower level has a rec room and bar.

See more Flossmoor homes for sale.

Carpinteria, CA

3375 Foothill Rd UNIT 1114, Carpinteria, CA
For sale: $1.2 million

36.8% off

Engulfed by exotic gardens and the world-famous Santa Barbara Polo Club, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo invites you to enjoy a resort-style lifestyle. Luxurious amenities include custom pine cabinetry, Wolf range, Sub-Zero fridge, and Franke stainless farm sink.

See more homes for sale in Carpinteria.

Benton, AR

2402 Shaker Rdg, Benton, AR
For sale: $159,900

36% off

This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home is an amazing value for a growing family, offering spaciousness, luxe amenities, and assigned schools with a stellar 9-out-of-10 GreatSchools rating.

See more homes for sale in Benton.

Related:

• 5 Common Misconceptions About Real Estate
• A 3-Step Plan for Finding and Buying Your Next Home
• 5 Biggest Home-Buying Fears (and How to Face Them)

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/9-biggest-price-cuts-187232/
via Reveeo

5 Most & Least Regretted DIY Home Projects

Thinking of going the DIY route for a home improvement project? Well you're not alone. Nearly three-quarters of homeowners have completed a DIY project in the past three years. However, 40 percent of them wished they hadn't, according to a new survey from home design site Zillow Digs.

Deciding whether to do it yourself or hire professional help is a common question. To help homeowners make better decisions related to tackling home improvement projects, Zillow Digs asked homeowners from around the country which projects they regretted the most and the least. The results of the survey are revealed below.

Top 5 most-regretted DIY projects

1.  Add or expand a room (such as a bathroom or bedroom)

Courtesy of Zillow Digs

2. Refinish cabinetry (kitchen or bath)

Courtesy of Zillow Digs

3. Refinish basement or attic

Courtesy of Zillow Digs

4. Reinstall new carpeting

Courtesy of Zillow Digs

5. Refinish or install new hardwood floors

Courtesy of Zillow Digs

Top 5 least-regretted DIY projects

1. Replace lighting fixtures

Courtesy of Zillow Digs

2. Replace cabinet hardware (kitchen or bath)

Courtesy of Zillow Digs

3. Paint one or more rooms

Courtesy Zillow Digs

4. Install new kitchen appliances

Courtesy Zillow Digs

5. Replace plumbing fixtures (bath, sink, toilet)

Courtesy Zillow Digs

Looking for inspiration for your next home renovation project? Check out Zillow Digs today!

from Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News http://www.zillow.com/blog/diy-regrets-2015-187184/
via Reveeo