GUIDE
Local businesses oer home improvement tips
2023 HOME EDITION
HOME IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE
WHAT SPACES WOULD YOU RECOMMEND A HOMEOWNER INVEST IN TO MAXIMIZE RESALE VALUE? The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home and is a high-impact area for potential buyers. Upgrading kitchen features, such as countertops, cabinets, appliances and ooring, can signicantly enhance the overall appeal and value of the home. Bathrooms are another critical area where investments can make a dierence. Updating xtures, installing modern vanities, improving lighting and enhancing the overall aesthetics can greatly improve the appeal and functionality of the space. Another important space is the primary bedroom or owner’s retreat. It is a sanctuary for homeowners, and investing in its comfort and style can have a positive impact on resale value. Upgrades such as high-quality ooring, well-designed closets, fresh paint and appealing lighting xtures make a big impact.
WHAT INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING RIGHT NOW? Warm and earthy color palettes are very trendy at the moment. Neutral and earthy tones have been favored, such as warm beige, terracotta, ochre and olive green. These colors create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The minimalist trend—characterized by clean lines, simplicity and a focus on essential elements—has remained popular. Clutter-free spaces, uncluttered surfaces, and a curated selection of furniture and decor items contribute to a sense of calm and simplicity. Designers have been incorporating soft curves and organic shapes in furniture and decor pieces. Rounded sofas, curved accent chairs and curvilinear light xtures create a more relaxed and inviting aesthetic.
While Sunrise Pool Renovations is a new name to the Spring area, the company has been serving the Houston area for over 40 years. Remodel Manager Karl Steinbacher said the company operated as Texsun Pools until it was acquired by Leslie’s in July 2022. Texsun Pools’ remodel division was retained and rebranded as Sunrise Pool Renovations. ASK A POOL REMODELER
EMPHASIZING ENERGY EFFICIENCY While the U.S. Department of Energy recommends a professional assessment of a home’s energy e¥ciency, it is also possible for homeowners to perform one on their own. Here is a list of areas to check when assessing a home’s energy usage.
COMPILED BY HANNAH BROL
AIR LEAKS
ASK A HOME STAGERINTERIOR DESIGNER
HOW DO FRESHWATER AND SALTWATER POOLS COMPARE? Our recommendation is a saltwater system as these are easier to operate for the homeowner and generally lower maintenance. Saltwater systems have better water quality, which feels softer on your skin. Chlorine pools have a steeper learning curve when it comes to water chemistry. The homeowner is required to store toxic chemicals in and around their home, and these toxic chemicals can damage patio furniture or household items in the garage. HOW MUCH DO RENOVATIONS COST? Between $6,000 and $18,000, depending on surface choices and scope of work.
WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? We oer turnkey renovations: plaster, tile and coping; water features; re bowls; spa additions; deck repair/replacement; equipment upgrades; drain and clean; accessibility features; leak detection; and pool inspections for buyers purchasing existing homes with swimming pools. HOW LONG DO RENOVATIONS TAKE? A pool renovation can take as little as ve to seven days for a simple replaster or tile project. A coping, replaster and tile job typically takes seven to 10 days. Larger projects can take 30-45 days, depending on the scope of the project. All work is supervised by our remodel specialists.
Air leaks can save up to 20% on energy per year if addressed. In addition to leaking windows and doors, check for leaks on baseboards or where dierent building materials meet. Leaks can be sealed or plugged with caulk or weather stripping.
Rhonda Conchola launched her business, The Home Staging for Houston Design Team, a little more than a decade ago in the Spring community. Together with her designers and logistics team, Conchola said the home staging and interior design company has since cultivated a loyal and consistent client base that spans the entire Greater Houston area.
LIGHTING
can yield a positive return. Our staging services start at $3,500, but with that price you will achieve a higher sales price, quicker sale time, competitive advantage on the market, and a perception of a well-maintained property. The return on investment is certainly worth it. IS STAGING MORE SUCCESSFUL IN A VACANT OR OCCUPIED HOME? It’s important to note that the success of staging, whether vacant or occupied, is inuenced by various factors beyond the staging approach itself. Factors such as pricing, market conditions, location, property condition and marketing eorts also play signicant roles in the success of selling a property. As professional home stagers we can provide guidance and insights based on experience and expertise to determine the most suitable staging approach for a specic property.
WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF STAGING A HOME PRIOR TO PUTTING IT ON THE MARKET? There are only pros when it comes to home staging—no cons. Ultimately, staging a home prior to putting it on the market can signicantly increase its marketability, improve the chances of a quicker sale and potentially lead to higher oers. It is an investment that can yield a positive return and help sellers maximize the value of their property. WHAT’S THE AVERAGE PRICE RANGE FOR YOUR STAGING SERVICES? WHAT FACTORS GO INTO THESE PRICES? Staging has to be considered as an investment when it comes to selling a property. While there is a cost associated with professional staging services, it is often viewed as an investment that
When replacing bulbs, residents can consider LEDS as well as energy- saving incandescent bulbs. Electric utilities may oer rebates for purchasing energy-e¥cient lamps.
INSULATION
Depending on building ages, insulation may not be up to standard. Checking attics, walls near outlets and basements can ensure heat losses are minimized. Wall insulation may require a thermographic evaluation.
APPLIANCES
Energy use for appliances can be estimated using the energy guide label on the appliance itself or by using an electricity usage monitor. Unplugging appliances in between uses can keep them from drawing unused electricity.
Rhonda Conchola Owner The Home Staging for Houston Design Team 3332 Spring Stuebner Road,
Karl Steinbacher Remodel Manager
99 TOLL
Sunrise Pool Renovations 7620 Louetta Road, Ste. A, Spring 832-979-8242 www.srpreno.com
HEATING AND COOLING
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends upgrading systems older than 15 years. Checking ductwork for dirt streaks can reveal air leaks, which can be sealed.
Ste. M, Spring 832-301-5696 www.homestagingforhouston.com
SPRING STUEBNER RD.
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SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY§COMMUNITY IMPACT
SPRING STUEBNER 6603 Spring Stuebner Rd (281) 288-0239
NORTH LOUETTA 1614 Louetta (281) 350-1198 KUYKENDAHL 13313 Kuykendahl (281) 873-5220
LOUETTA 7314 Louetta (281) 370-1986
WILLOWBROOK 6927 FM 1960 W (281) 580-1734
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