5 Ways to Create a Statement With Your Garage Door

 
 

Home customization is virtually limitless these days, and your garage door is no exception.

The traditional white paneled rectangle has transformed into a blank canvas for creativity and self-expression. Not sure where to start? Don't worry, we've got you covered. With a little creativity and some simple tips, you can transform your garage door into a welcoming and eye-catching feature that will impress anyone passing by. Here are five ways you can create a statement with your garage door and elevate the curb appeal of your home.

Roll Up Your Sleeves and Paint
One of the easiest ways to make a statement with your garage door is by giving it a fresh coat of paint or stain. Choose bold colors that complement your home's exterior, or opt for a unique pattern or design. You can also add details with stencils or tape for a more personalized touch. Just make sure to use exterior-grade paint and stain to ensure durability.

When painting or staining your garage door, be smart about your approach. Start by thoroughly cleaning and sanding the surface to remove any dirt or imperfections. Prime the door with a quality exterior primer before applying the paint or stain. It's also a good idea to test out your chosen color or design on a small area of the door first to ensure you're happy with the result. And don't forget to properly seal and protect your door after painting or staining to maintain its vibrancy and protect it from the elements.

Get Creative With Windows and Glass
Adding windows or glass panels to your garage door not only adds visual interest but also allows natural light to enter your garage space. You can choose from different styles and shapes of windows to match your home's architecture and personal style. Additionally, frosted or tinted glass can also provide privacy while still adding a modern touch.

If you're not sure where to start or how to properly install windows or glass panels on your garage or entry doors, it's best to seek professional help. Many garage door companies offer installation services for added convenience and safety. They can also provide guidance on the best type of windows or glass for your specific door and needs.

Add Some New Hardware
Adding hardware accents, such as handles and hinges, can instantly transform the look of your garage door. These small details can add a rustic or industrial feel, depending on the style you choose. Additionally, you can also opt for decorative faux hardware to achieve the same effect without drilling into your garage door.

To ensure that your hardware doesn't fall off, make sure to choose high-quality and durable pieces. If you're adding hardware to a metal garage door, use self-tapping screws instead of regular ones for a more secure hold. Also, regularly check and tighten any loose screws or hinges to prevent them from falling off. And remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommended weight limits when installing hardware on your garage door.

Get Decals Made
If you're feeling artistic, why not create your own custom decals for your garage door? You can use vinyl stickers or stencils to create a unique design or even showcase your family's name or favorite sports team. This is a great option for those who want to add a personal touch without making any permanent changes to their garage door.

There are many online printing companies that offer custom decal making services. You can also visit your local print shop or craft store for more options and personalized assistance. Just make sure to choose a high-quality and weather-resistant material for your decals, so they don't fade or peel over time.

Add a Light Touch
Last but not least, adding lighting fixtures above your garage door can create an eye-catching statement at night. You can choose from different styles such as wall sconces or hanging pendant lights to match your home's overall aesthetic. Not only will it add visual interest, but also provide added safety and security for your home.

In addition to being a design feature, lighting can also serve practical purposes for your garage door. Installing motion-sensor lights above your garage door can help deter potential intruders by illuminating the area if any movement is detected. You can also opt for smart lighting that can be controlled remotely through a mobile app, providing added peace of mind when you're away from home. Proper lighting can also improve visibility when entering or exiting your garage, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall safety for you and your family.

Some Things to Avoid
While there are many ways to create a statement with your garage door, there are also some things you should avoid. For instance, it's best to stay away from overly trendy designs or colors that may become outdated quickly. It's also important to consider the overall aesthetic of your home and choose elements that complement it rather than clash with it.

Additionally, avoid any modifications or additions that may compromise the functionality of your garage door, such as blocking its movement or interfering with its sensors. And always make sure to follow safety precautions and manufacturer's instructions when making any changes or enhancements to your garage door.

With these five tips, you can easily create a statement with your garage door and enhance the overall look of your home. Don't be afraid to get creative and think outside the box. Your garage door is an extension of your home's exterior, so make sure it reflects your personal style and adds to the curb appeal of your property. Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing your garage door.

Read more at Rismedia.com

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How Buying or Selling a Home Benefits Your Community

 
 

If you’re thinking of buying or selling a house, it’s important to know it doesn’t just impact you—it helps out the local economy and your community, too.

Every year, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) puts out a report that breaks down the financial impact that comes from people buying and selling homes (see visual below):

 
 

When a house is sold, it really boosts the local economy. That’s because of all the people needed to build, fix up, and sell homes. Robert Dietz, Chief Economist at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), explains how the housing industry adds jobs to a community:

“. . . housing is a significant job creator. In fact, for every single-family home built, enough economic activity is generated to sustain three full-time jobs for a year . . .”

It makes sense that housing creates a lot of jobs because so many different kinds of work are involved in the industry.

Think about all the people involved with selling a house—city officials, contractors, lawyers, real estate agents, specialists, etc. Everyone has a job to do to make your deal go through. So, each transaction is a big help to those who work and live in your community.

Put simply, when you buy or sell a home, you’re helping out your neighbors. So, when you decide to move, you’re not just meeting your own needs—you’re also doing something good for your community. Just knowing your move helps so many people around you can give you a sense of empowerment as you make your decision this year.

Bottom Line

Every time a home is sold, it really helps out the local economy. If you’re ready to move, get in touch with a local real estate agent. It won’t just change your life—it’ll also do a lot of good for the whole community.

Read more at KeepingCurrentMatters.com

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What's Motivating Your Move?

 
 

Thinking about selling your house?

As you make your decision, consider what’s pushing you to think about moving. A recent survey from Realtor.com looked into why people want to sell their homes this year. Here are the top two reasons (see graphic below):

 
 

Let’s take a closer look and see if they’re motivating you to make a change too.

1. To Make a Profit

If you’re thinking about selling your house, you probably have a lot of questions on your mind. Well, here’s some good news – the latest data shows most sellers get a great return on their investment when they sell. ATTOM, a property data provider, explains:

“. . . home sellers made a $121,000 profit on the typical sale in 2023, generating a 56.5 percent return on investment.”

That’s significant. And here’s one contributing factor. During the pandemic, home prices skyrocketed. There was way more buyer demand than homes available for sale and that combination pushed prices up.

Now, home prices are still rising, just not as fast. That ongoing appreciation is good news for your bottom line. Any profit you make can help offset some of today’s affordability challenges when you buy your next home.

If you want to know how much your house is worth now and what’s going on with prices in your area, talk to a local real estate agent.

2. For Family Reasons

Maybe you want to be near relatives to help take care of older family members or to have more support nearby. Or maybe you’re just eager to spend time together on special occasions like birthdays and holidays.

Selling a house and moving closer to the people who matter the most to you helps keep you connected. If the distance is making you miss out on some big milestones in their lives, it might be time to talk to a local real estate agent to find a place close by. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) says:

“A great real estate agent will guide you through the home search with an unbiased eye, helping you meet your buying objectives while staying within your budget.”

Bottom Line

If you're thinking about selling your house, there’s probably a good reason for it. Why not talk to a local real estate agent? They can help you make the right move to reach your goals this year.

Read more at KeepingCurrentMatters.com

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Weekly mortgage refinance demand rose 5% after a slight dip in mortgage rates

 
 

Mortgage rates are significantly higher than they were at the start of this year, but they pulled back slightly last week after several weeks of straight increases.

That was enough to spark some new demand, especially for refinances.

The average contract interest rate for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with conforming loan balances ($766,550 or less) decreased to 7.18% from 7.29%, with points unchanged at 0.65 (including the origination fee) for loans with a 20% down payment.

“Treasury rates and mortgage rates fell last week on the news of a slowing job market, with wage growth at the slowest pace since 2021, and the Federal Reserve’s announced plans to ease quantitative tightening in June and to maintain its view that another rate hike is unlikely,” said Mike Fratantoni, MBA’s senior vice president and chief economist.

The rate for Federal Housing Administration loans fell below 7% for the first time in three weeks, which is a welcome sign for first-time buyers, who tend to use FHA loans.

“First-time homebuyers account for roughly half of purchase loans, and the government lending programs are an important source of financing for these homebuyers. The gain in FHA activity is a sign that this segment of the market is active,” Fratantoni added.

The dip in rates caused refinance demand to increase 5% for the week, although it was still 6% lower than the year-earlier week. Rates are 70 basis points higher than they were a year ago, so there are very few borrowers who can benefit from a refinance. A basis point is one-hundredth of a percentage point.

Applications for a mortgage to purchase a home rose 2% for the week but were still 17% lower than the same week a year earlier. Affordability is hitting potential buyers hard, as home prices continue to climb. Tight supply is keeping the competition high, resulting in very few bargains.

Mortgage rates fell further to start this week. The next big piece of economic data comes next week, with the release of the monthly consumer price index. That could move rates sharply in either direction, depending on what it says about inflation.

Read more at CNBC.com

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Just Listed: Your Oasis Awaits in Redmond, Oregon's Perfect Blend of Comfort and Convenience!

 
 
 

Welcome to your home in Redmond, Oregon!

This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home boasts 2,250 square feet of meticulously designed living space, nestled on a spacious corner lot. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an abundance of natural light. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating an inviting space perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. Prepare to be impressed by the gourmet kitchen, complete with sleek granite countertops, modern appliances, and ample storage space. Retreat to the luxurious master suite, featuring a spa-like ensuite bathroom and a walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms provide comfort and privacy for family members or guests. Outside, discover your own backyard oasis, where lush landscaping and trees provide beauty and tranquility. Spend warm summer evenings hosting BBQs on the patio or unwinding. With a 3-car garage, there's plenty of room for parking, toys and storage, accommodating all your vehicles and outdoor gear with ease. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Bend, Oregon or less than 10 mins to the airport, this home offers the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities. Explore the vibrant downtown area, hit the slopes at nearby ski resorts, or simply enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty that Central Oregon has to offer. Don't miss your chance to make this dream home yours!

Listed by Amanda St. Clair for West + Main Homes. Please contact Amanda for current pricing + availability.

 
 
 

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West + Main Homes
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Presented by:
Amanda St. Clair
541-390-6804
amanda@westandmainoregon.com