Pat Hensley

Luxury Kitchen trends for 2009

The kitchen remains one of the most important features buyers look at when it comes to making a housing purchase.

If you are building a home or remodeling but need to cut costs, add a strong focal point such as a finer material used sparingly, a clever cabinet arrangement, a dramatic range hood, or funky light fixtures. Having something breathtaking to catch a buyer's eye when they first enter the room makes it memorable.

The Atlanta 2009 Kitchen and Bath show in April tells us what consumers are asking for in 2009.

Major appliances should have the Energy Star rating. A 15-50% savings on electricity means you will recoup the cost of the appliance over time. The new induction cook tops are an added savings to electricity, and while more expensive than other conventional gas and electric cook tops, the return on investment make them a viable option.

Recent news stories relating to issues with granite will make quartz products more appealing to health conscience consumers. The danger of staining and bacteria, common issues with granite, will make quartz, with its smooth surface and multi colors more attractive.

2009 popular kitchen trends:

•· The desirability of pantry space

•· Dedicated space in the kitchen for computer use or for recharging electronic devices-such as cell phones or wireless Internet devices

•· Growing focus on recycling, a dedicated recycling center

•· Renewable-material flooring or countertops were both reported to be increasing in popularity by almost the same pace as they were a year ago.

•· Integrating the kitchen with family space such as a great room or morning room

•· Drinking water filtration systems are increasing in popularity

•· Duplicate appliances, pot filler water faucets, natural stone countertops, and upper-end appliances are still hot items in the Cary and Raleigh markets

•· Water saving faucets

Declining interest:

•· Upscale kitchen features such as a wine refrigerator or a double-island have become significantly less popular over the past year.

•· Built-in coffee/espresso makers and warming drawers

•· Granite counter tops

These great tips came from Builder on-line and Builder Magizine.

Drop by my website www.TriangleNC.com to get local facts and fun. Also, View all Homes for Sale. 919-280-4567

I get his question a lot..."Do we dig deep and buy a dream home or settle for something less?"

Choosing between a smaller house in an luxury, high end neighborhood, an older, bigger house in a more working-class community or a brand-new home is not easy. If you're trying to decide, start by examining your priorities and asking these questions:

•· Is the surrounding neighborhood or the home itself the most important consideration?

•· Is each of the neighborhoods safe?

•· Is the quality of the schools an issue?

•· Do any of the areas seem to attract more families with children or adult residents?

•· And where do you fit in?

As for the return on your investment, home-price appreciation is hard to predict. All else being equal, if homes all go up in value 20%, you make a bigger profit with a more valuable piece of property. Sometimes, however, some homes go up in value faster than others. In the late 1980s, the more expensive move-up housing appreciated wildly. But during the recession that followed, smaller homes tended to hold their value better than more expensive ones.

This analysis is jsut a quide to get your thinking. At the end of the day, how much to spend on a home comes down to your level of comfort. No one can really answer this question better than you.

Visit us on-line at www.TriangleNC.com to veiw all Cary and Raleigh Homes for Sale

New Homes at Kitts Creek near RTP in Morrisville NC....

New Luxury Homes for sale right now... www.4KittsCreek.com

All homes have Energy Start Rating.

Energy Star Homes. Saves money and our planet.

Kitts Creek walk friendly neighborhood

Read more about New ENERGY STAR Home Features

ENERGY STAR homes must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. ENERGY STAR qualified homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).

•· Effective Insulation - Properly installed insulation that meets or exceeds national code requirements helps achieve even temperatures throughout the house while using less energy. The result is lower utility costs and a quieter, more comfortable home.

•· High-Performance Windows - Advanced window coatings help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. They also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furniture.

•· Tight Construction and Ducts - Attention to detail by sealing all holes, cracks, and seams in ducts and construction assemblies helps eliminate drafts, moisture, dust, pests, and pollen. This improves comfort and the quality of indoor air, while lowering maintenance costs.

•· Efficient Heating & Cooling - More efficient and properly sized heating and cooling systems use less energy, which reduces utility bills. These systems also turn on and off less frequently, removing more humidity and providing better comfort.

Read More about Energy Star homes http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=about.ab_index

Learn more about the Luxury Custom Homes being built in Kitts Creek www.4KittsCreek.com

Call us for friendly real estate advice

919-280-4567 www.TriangleNC.com

Welcome to Carolina Preserve in Cary NC for Active Seniors 55+.

Below is a photo of Bradford Hall. Owner and guest privileges include the impressive Indoor/outdoor pools, a ballroom, Physical Fitness Center, Craft rooms, Billiard room, putting green and a Lifestyle Director that helps to organize daily activities

Our Featured Home is below at 1018 Ventnor Place. A rare ranch style home with a finished walk out basement has come on the market for only $435,000. This home is situated on a premiere lot that backs to a natural tree buffer. Relax, have fun and make new friends.

Virtual Tour http://www.360digitalpics.com/idx1635197/360D_idx1635197.html

Let Pat give you a tour today. 919-280-4567 www.TriangleNC.com