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How remodeling influences home prices at resale, and other links

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We’ve spoken at length about which remodeling projects have the best return on investment. Many homeowners will use that information to put their minds at ease when embarking on a large remodel.

Of course, those numbers aren’t set in stone, so it’s important to seek out other factors, such as the expertise of realtors, when deciding on a remodel.

In this article, real estate agents explain the correlation between remodeling and home prices. They advise that people undertake projects because they want them, and not just because they feel it gives them a leg up at resale. If you’re absolutely set on sprucing up the place for sale, the experts recommend you think smaller: replace entry doors, replace garage doors, re-side the exterior, or add a tile backsplash.

In short, the marketplace will determine what happens in the long term, so get started on that passion project for you and you alone.

Speaking of numbers, Porch.com has a wonderful infographic called Kitchen Remodels by the Numbers. So, take a look at the cost of a midrange major kitchen remodel ($54,000), the percentage breakdown of where that money goes on a kitchen remodel, and how long appliances will last.

If numbers aren’t your thing, check out Consumer Reports’ kitchen upgrades that will stand the test of time. Colorful appliances, beverage centers, and simple designs are all on the list.

Have a good week!

MK Remodeling & Design wins another Angie’s List Super Service Award, and other links

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Happy 2015! We may not have any flying cars yet, but MK Remodeling & Design is certainly off to a flying start!

MK is starting off the year with another Angie’s List Super Service Award for 2014. The award reflects MK’s continuing commitment to quality work and customer service. We are so happy to see our hard work recognized and look forward to helping more clients reach their goals in 2015.

Now that we’ve talked about the good things that happen in remodeling, it’s only fair we talk about some of the not-so-good things, too.

The Huffington Post details several home remodeling survival tips, or how to avoid the pain and to enhance the pleasure of the process.

Among the best tips: take it one room at a time, nail down a theme, and be cautious of trends.

Whether your remodel is large or small, taking a moment to consider storage space is always a winning proposition.

As this article notes, “creative design can use nooks, corners and even the area under the stairs to add built-in storage to help make each room more functional.”

First, think about what you use daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonally. Then keep that in mind when discussing plans with your contractor. Odds are they’ve accommodated similar concerns before!

Have a great week!

With holidays in mind, we look at the trends for 2015


The Huffington Post highlights tiling the entire kitchen, versatile office spaces for all types of users, and wet rooms for bathing.

On a smaller scale, La Jolla Light spotlights a rising use of Caesarstone for countertops, a focus on more luxurious bathrooms, and a move toward more green homes.

If some of those projects sound a little too big for your liking, do not fret because there are plenty of small-time projects that can produce big-time values.

According to the Las Vegas Review Journal, data supports a strong return on investment for a minor kitchen remodel or a bathroom brush up. Consult www.homeadvisor.com/cost  to help jump-start your planning.

Happy holidays from all of us at MK Remodeling & Design! We can’t help but sing during the holiday season!