January 2011

™

16331 W. Honey-suckle View Lane

4249 W. Gilbert Circle

7006 N. Camino Verde

15032 N. Twin Lakes Drive

11906 N. Potosi Point Drive

2438 E. Stone Stable Dr.

5637 E. Bellevue Street

1698 W. Dalehaven Circle

10260 N. Kraus-wood Lane

1669 W. Dalehaven Circle

600 W. Windward Circle

11384 W. Harvester Drive

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The #1 Real Estate Magazine For House Hunters

(520) 240-5123website: www.WendlingTeam.comemail: [email protected]

Steve, Sharon & James"Selling Tucson area properties

since 1981"

SouthweSt area 1 acre lot!3 BR, 1260 Sq. ft. home on 1 acre lot! Built in 2007, horse property, large front patio, 2 car carport, fenced yard, RV

parking! $100,000. Text "16331" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

lender owned Ina/old Father3 BR/2 BA/1,393 sq. ft. with newly (Nov. 2010) plas-tered & tiled pool! Updated kitchen & baths, newer roof, A/C and pool equiptment. Large .18 acre lot! $134,900

Text "4249" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

Ina/SIlVerBell area Gorgeous custom built 4 BR + Den, 3BA , 2947 Sq. ft. home on 3.3 acre lot with spectacular mountain, sunset & city views! Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, stain-

less appliances, wrap around patio! $475,000. Text "7006" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

BlacK horSe, oracle/Golder ranchGreat private lot w/ unobstructed views of the Catalinas! 3 BR, 2483 Sqft., beautifully maintained home in great neighborhood! Huge great rm, cov'd patio, spacious .18

acre lot, neighborhood park! $245,000 Text "15032" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

lender owned, tangerine/1st avenue 3 BR + Den, 2,201 sq. ft. with pool! Beautifully land-scaped yard, recently repainted, built-in cherry desk/wall unit & Murphy bed. Great home, Geat buy! $245,900.


GorGeouS PuSch rIdGe VIewS!4 BR/2 BA/1873 Sqft. in Rams Canyon w/ gorgeous Pusch Ridge views! Beautifully lndscpd bkyrd! Njoy sparkling pool & hot tub, tiled cvrd patio, new carpet &A/C, fp in great rm, freshly painted int & ext, EZ care tile flooring, neighborhood park/playground! $229,900,


craycroFt/SPeedway 2 Bedroom/1 Bath/1,014 Sq. ft. solid construction burnt adobe ranch style home! Great home for 1st time buyers or

investment! $100,000 Text "5637" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

la cholla hIllS! 55+ community, beautifully maintained 2 bedroom/2 bath townhome! Enclosed AZ room, mountain views, wood floors, community pools, lighted tennis courts, community

center, close to shopping & golf! $145,000, Text "1698" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

la canada/lamBert Beautifully maintained 3 BR + Den is golf course lot over-looking the 14th tee! Enjoy spectacular Catalina Mtn views from this 2713 sqft. home in gated Villages of La Canada! Many upgrades thruout, sparkling heated pool, beautifully

landscaped! Huge price reduction! Now $279,400! Text "10260" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

la cholla hIllS! 55+ community, excellent condition, remodeled 1 bed-room/1 bath townhome! Great community with 2 heated pools, lighted tennis courts, community center, close to

shopping & golf! $125,000, Text "1669" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

oracle/maGee area! 3 Bedroom, 1639 sq. ft. home on .55 acre private lot with gorgeous mountain views! Large family room with fire-place, remodeled kitchen, extended covered patio, great

Northwest area neighborhood! Priced at $200,000. Text "600" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

Gladden FarmS 3 Bedroom/2 Bath home in Gladden Farms, 1776 sq. ft. on large .22 acre lot! Custom paint and upgrades throughout,

covered patio. Priced at $175,200! Text "11384" to 520-425-5575 for more info!

11290 N. Palmetto Dr

3531 W. Avenida Obregon

879 E Willow Bend Dr

621 W Las Lomitas

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Alison P. Hurd, Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI

520 349-1768Email:[email protected]

www.alisonhurd.com

Selling Tucson Since 1988

SWNW

ORO VALLEY

ORO VALLEY

Furnished canada hiilsQuality built 4BR/2BA, 2,000 sqft San-ta Fe, in La Canada/Naranja golf course neighborhood. Large, private, cul-de-sac lot, ceramic tile, custom window cover-ings, cozy beehive fireplace, open kitchen with large pantry, security system, new heating/cooling system, expanded cov-ered patio & 3 car garage with storage cabinets. East facing view lot! $325,000

sun city vistosoLovely and private, 2BR/2BA, 1,350 sqft home in Del Webb’s over 45 Oro Valley Community. Very open floorplan with cathedral ceilings, beautiful front & back brick patios, french doors, profession-aly landscaped yard backing greenbelt with Pusch Ridge views. Community pool, tennis, fitness center, golf, & more! $219,900

PRESIDIO HILLSStylish contemporary 3BR plus loft/2.5BA, 1700 sq.ft. home in Valen-cia/Camino de la Tierra area. A very clean, well maintained home w/ vault-ed ceilings, large eat in kitchen w/ new appliances, new Carrier Infinity heat pump, fireplace, private back yard w/ block wall & lovely landscaping. Walk to community center w/ pool, club-house, & excercise facilities. $105,000

casitas de castilianCharming burnt adobe 2BR/2BA town-home in Oracle/Rudasill area. Bee-hive fireplace, private front & back patios, fresh paint and pergo flooring. A very special over 55 community with pool, tennis, clubhouse nestled in acres of lush green grounds. $124,500 MLS#21029330

9127 E. Canyon Terrace

8305 S. Taylor Ln

2948 E. Haw-throne

2820 E 6th St #120

6514 E Calle Herculo

5251 E. 4th st

2948 E. Haw-throne

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982 N Ventana Court

Excellent Southwest ContemporaryThis home is located in a small northeast side gated community; spa-cious and open floorplan beautfiully maintained; 2 bedroom/2 baths plus den; large kitchen with nook; seperate family room that opens onto covered patio with Catalina Mountain views $249,900 MLS

#21022094. For more info www.LongRealty.com/21022094

Thinking of a

Winter Home or

Retirement Home?

Mild Winters

Think

ARIZONA!

Year Round

Sun, Sun and

More Sun!

Would you like an information packet sent to you?

Call Mark Toll Free1-888-600-4462

And Lots More!

Mark Clark CRS, [email protected]

www.tucson-realestate-index.com3130 E Broadway, Tucson AZ 85716

Incredible Price for Home & 1 Acre LotThis 1400 sqft manufactured home with 3bedrooms/2baths is located on the Southwest side of Tucson. $49,900 MLS# 21038657. For more info www.LongRealty.com/21038657

Sam Hughes at its Best!Wonderful Spanish style home on a huge corner, private lot, perfect for entertaining. 3 nice sized bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths with den; formal living room; formal dining room; updated kitchen with granite slab countertops; plus seperate family room; 2 fireplaces; Master retreat with fireplace; screened porch; pebble-tec pool & hot tub! $749,900 MLS #21023480. For more

info www.longRealty.com/21023480

Live Near the UniversityThis is a historic Sam Hughes area condo, ground floor unit: 2BR/2BA; nice sized backyard; perfect for pets; all appliances included MLS #21029310 $180,000. For more info www.Long-

Realty.com/21029310

Classic Red Brick RanchGreat curb appeal in this 3bedroom/2bath updated ranch home with fantastic yard; kitchen and bathrooms have been updated over the years; gas heat and central air. All for this low price of $110,000 MLS #21039217. For more info

www.LongRealty.com/21039217

Incredible Central Tucson Location Great for EntertainingBurnt Adobe home w/ spacious & open flrpln. Numerous updates thruout. Great north facing back-

yard w/ pool that looks directly at the Catalinas. Huge master suite w/ fp & lrg walk-in closet. 3 bdrms/3 baths. $269,900 MLS #21032412. For more info www.LongRealty.com/21032412

GraduateREALTOR Institute

4847 S. Calle de la Faena

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ELSA & DARIO FIGUEROA

Email: [email protected]

MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCERS

Se Habla EspañolOver 20 yrs Experience Combined!

Tucson Natives

520-954-1101

Ready to move into, super clean, freshly painted, kitchen been remodel, all appl stay, Tile floors thru-out home,dual pane windows, security bars, large private back yard w/blk wall cover patio, low maintence Desert Landscaping Front & back. Close to shopping, schools, bus lines. only $95,000 Call Dario Figueroa at 520-954-1101MLS# 21028779

Campbell & Irvington

Home BuyIng TIpsGet PrequalifiedIf you prequalify for a mortgage, you will know how much house you can buy. People tend to waste a lot of time, and a lot of a real estate agent’s time, looking for a home above the price they should be shopping. You can prequalify with any bank or credit union. The amount you qualify for is the Maximum loan amount you should accept. You should probably trim the amount by about 10% to give you some breathing room in your budget.

Choose a buyer’s agentThe agent whose number is on the “For Sale” sign in front of your dream home does not have your best interest in mind. He has an agreement to represent the interests of the seller. You may want to find an agent who works for you.

make an offerIf you happen across your dream home and, by some luck, no one has made an offer on it, then by all means, make an of-fer. But what if someone has already made an offer? Make an offer anyway. A surprisingly large number of purchase offers fall through, and you can be the lucky benificiary of such an event. Make sure the offer is contingent on the home passing inspection.

Test Drive your HomeBefore you buy a house, try your commute to work during rush hour. When you make a long drive from a house to your workplace on a weekend, you don’t get a true idea of the travel time involved. Also check out other things in the neighbor-hood. Check for public easements on your property.

get an InspectionYou probably do not build homes for a living, and don’t know exactly what to look for. So get a professional in there. It will save you a lot of money, because if the inspector finds a problem it is the seller who will pay for it, not you. You can locate a local certified inspector through the american society of home inspectors.


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4175 E Stone River Drive Tucson

11810 N Copper Butte Dr.

Via Scaramuzzo)

2481 N Yellow Flower Trail

42 W. Calle Del Chancero

6318 N Calle Del Halcon

5685 E Paseo Cimar-ron

2421 W Catalpa Road

Copper Creek BeautyMillion dollar views from this 3bd/2ba Copper Creek home that backs up to natural area. Tile flrs & Berber carpeting thruout. Huge mstr suite w/ prvt balcony that has views of both city, mtn & natural desert lndscpe. Immaculately kept & maintained home. $224,000. 11810 N Copper Butte Dr. Call Allison at 520-780-2133.

RiveRhaven Community!Central 3bd/3 ba beautiful home is ready for you to move in! New Carpet. Open & bright ktchn w/ black apps, gas range, pantry, & center island. Mstr has w/in closet. Xtra lrg loft upstrs. 4175 E Stone River Drive. $239,000. MLS#21032795. Call Reva at 444-2887.

SPeCtaCuLaR PRivate hiLLSiDe14.3 acre vacant lot in Tucson’s westside has spectacular views, high on a private hillside. With lush vegetation and 1/3 private well interest, You must see! See MLS #20920144. Call Neal at 520-907-2769

eaStSiDe GateD CommunityThis Eastside 3BD/2BA home has a great rm w/ tile floor & warm cozy fp. Lots of up-grades: Black appliances, Corian counters, full length patio, gas range, cabs in lrg garage. 2481 N Yellow Flower Trail. $268,000. MLS #21021552. Call Reva at 444-2887.

GReen vaLLey toWnhomeThis wonderful 2BR/2BA backs to common area for privacy & views. Home has a nice covered patio & is located in friendly, active, 55+ community. 42 W. Calle Del Chancero, Green Valley. Call Reva at 520-444-2887

enCanto PaLoma This 4bd/3ba home backs to the La Paloma greens! Open & spacious flrpln. Silestone counters, gas cooktop, dec alcoves, rounded corners, archways, vlted clngs, wood beams, surround sound & 9’clngs in bdrms. Fab cvrd patio for enjoying the mtn, city & fairway views. $475,000-$495,000. 6318 N Calle Del Halcon. Call Allison at 520-780-2133.

Fabulous Foothills homeBREATHTAKING VIEWS! CITY! MTN! SUNSET! Words can’t describe this 3 bd/3 ba outstanding craftsmanship custom home in Cimarron Est! Soaring pecky cedar ceilings from Oregon & massive beams. Granite cntrs, loft, 1800’s vintage Tucson Historical bar! Fun outdoor living w/ sprklng pool, spa, ramada, fire pit! MUST SEE! 5685 E Paseo Cimarron. MLS #21025822. Call Reva at 444-2887.

EXPERIENCE, INTEGRITY, SUCCESS

Neal ManningBroker

(520) 325-6616 (Office)(520) 299-3115 (Res.)

Email: [email protected]

Price reduced

Price reduced

noRthWeSt GateD home!Majestic Mtn views from this 3 bd/2ba! Enjoy the views! Nice gated community. New car-pet, cozy fp, skylight, fans, lots of storage. Come take a look & you will enjoy the views, peace & quiet. 2421 W Catalpa Road. $240,000. MLS #21038689. Call Reva at 444-2887.

4742 N Camino Feliz

17290 W Jaguar Ln

5511 W Open R

5526 W Tumbling F

3931 E Schroeder St

5979 W Rafter Cir


(520) 297-11861-800-551-1253

Casas Adobes Office6875 N. Oracle Rd., #125

Tucson, AZ 85704

Multi-Million Dollar ProducerPresident's Club Member

Residence742-9746(520) 918-59731-800-551-1253

PETER G. HUTCHINSON

2BR/2BA, 1152 SF'80 MSFR Only $95,000Super corner lot location for this well cared for 24'x48' Hill-crest Doublewide with front & rear covered patios & 17'x22' 1 car garage/workshop big enough for 2 cars but only a 1 car door. Great opportunity for 1st time homebuyer or as a

rental property, vacation home etc. MLS#20841474 Call Pete Hutchinson 918-5973

Fully Improved • Acre Lot • $22,500Quiet location on paved roads. Lush vegetation.

Call for more info. MLS#20915823 Call Pete Hutchinson 918-5973

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Best lot available in Tucson Estates $120,000This 6350+ SQFT North/South oriented Golf Course lot has all utilities & Unobstructed views of Tucson Mountain Park to the East & Golf Course views to the South & West. It has only one

neigboring lot to the West(not yet built & may be available). MLS# 21033859. Call Pete Hutchinson 918-5973.

Tucson Estates Estate Sale $83,500This spacious ‘72, 1440 SQFT, 24x60’, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, move-in ready, furnished doublewide comes with covered front entry, screened porch, covered parking, newer appli-ances & fully equipped kitchen + oversize bedrooms, a golf

cart & much more. Call Pete Hutchinson 918-5973

An Oasis Acre in the Desert $199,500Catalina’s most spectacular doesn’t begin to describe this 2100+ SQFT. 4 bedroom, 2 full bath, ‘90 doublewide with 800+ sqft Guest Quarters/Office/workshop with 1/2 bath off 900+sqft. 3 car garage(1 bay large enough for a small RV/Boat etc...), all w/full attic storage. Full RV hookup. Front & rear Covered decks 15x32’ & 12x26’ & a gazebo, over a hundred mature rose bushes, a koi pond, 3 lawns & a 26 station irrigation system. MLS# 21033963.

Call Pete Hutchinson 918-5973

2 homes in 1 in Tucson Estates $150,000Originally a 2BR/2BA, 1440 SqFt. ‘69 Doublewide, w/ Custom 435 SqFt, 1BR/1BA addition, totaling 3BR/3BA, 1875 Sqft. home on approx .3 Acre Corner Lot just a couple of lots off the Golf Course w/ Panoramic Mtn Views, 3 Car Carport, Dual Pane Windows, Lrg

Sceened Porch, Flagsone Patio & Much More. MLS# 21038155. Call Pete Hutchinson 918-5973

Real Estate advertising in this magazine is subject to the Federal Fair Housing act of 1968. This magazine will not knowingly accept any advertising which is in violation of law. All property and dwellings in this magazine are available on an equal opportunity basis. Neither the listing broker nor the publisher will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., contained herein. Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by House Hunters is strictly prohibited without written consent of the Publisher, House Hunters.

NEXT ADVERTISING DEADLINE DEc 20TH

™ real estate magazine Phone 520-344-4623 Fax 1-866-596-5836 Email [email protected]

AbILITy REALTy FoTHERiNgHAm, bARRy ............................................... 16

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cHumbLER REALTy cHumbLER, jim ............................................................ 11

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2011 Home Improvement Guide Pages 18-21

6059 S Avenida caneca

2141 W Triangle X

3419 W. desert Echo

3294 W desert Echo

Carol Garrbroker, AbR, GRI, e-PRo, REALToR®

520 883-4444"Where Dreams Grow"Email: [email protected]

www.garden-realty.com

TRES PuEbLoSmove in ready 3bR 2bA beauty with fresh paint & new kitchen appliances. built 2006 with open floor plan with lots of light. Great dining room overlooks neighborhood park.

big corner lot & walled backyard. just $99,900. mLS# 21034345

bRING THE FAmILySpacious & open 3bR plus den/family rm (lacks closet for 4th bR) with high ceilings, ceiling fans, & lots of light. 2045 sq ft, huge living area, large eat-in kitchen. backs to

desert common area for privacy. mountain views. $154,900. mLS# 21032535.

TucSoN mouNTAIN FooTHILLS Towering mtn views from beautiful semi-custom 1455 sqft 2BR + den/office w/ fp, up-graded cabs & custom colors. professionally landscaped corner lot. Winner of best home on REALToR® tour! upscale NoN-age restricted Tucson Estates community with pool,

tennis, rec center. Walk to Tucson mtn park trailhead. $229,900. mLS# 21023505.

TucSoN mouNTAIN SANcTuARyWell maintained 3bR 2bA 1 story home in peaceful community near Tucson

mountain park. built 2004 with high ceilings & lots of light, huge living room with fireplace, large kitchen with gas stove & island, AC. Mountain views. $119,900.

mLS#: 21033835

S

SW

SW

SW

11745 S. Morning Mist

14123 E. Lost Summit

4101 E. Stony Meadow

8828 E Arbor

1 9658 E. Laurel Ridge 11051 E. Old Spanish Trail

6095 E. House Rock Lane

10554 E. Ravenswood

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Ability Realty7360 E. 22nd St.

Tucson, AZ 85710(520) 296-7143

website: barrytucson.com

Do You Have

Relocation Needs?

Call Jacque1-800-528-0626

In Tucson call721-9700

We Pride Ourselves On The Quality Of

Our Service

For

Property Management

AssistanceCall David

520-240-4493

Listing?Selling?

Call us at520-296-7143

[email protected] HOME and SUPER PRICE

North of I-10 on Wilmot**3BR/2BA manufactured home in Window Rock**Garden tub and separate shower in master bath**N facing rear yard**Cov pa-tio on east side**All appliances**8x10 storage/shop w/professionally installed electric**$124,900**Call BARRY 240-7130.

QUIET COMFORT2275sqft manufactured home in Fast Horse Ranch in Vail**3BR/2BA**A Cooks' kitchen**Huge fmly rm w/fp**Den**Dbl gar**Amazing porches w/ wide views of the Rincons & washes where wildlife is abundant**$184,900**Call BARRY 240-7130.

REnTaL REnTaL REnTaLLocated near Valencia/Alvernon**3BR 2BA** Easy access to DMAFB, Raytheon, I-10 and the airport**Built in 1996**Clean and well maintained**Refrigerator, washer/dryer stay**$950** Pets OK max 2 @ $150 each refund-able deposit**DAVID 240-4493..

MOVE In REadY!!!What a bargain!! 2BR/2BA townhome**Near Golf Links/Pantano**Ceiling fans**Lots of tile and flag-stone cement**Large rear yard w/block wall and dbl gate ** Near stores, bus and parks**Owner has an AZ lic. and will consider will carry, wrap or lease purchase **$79,900**MERLE 400-3320

VILLaGE GREEn! Lovely subdivision located near 22nd St./Old Span-ish Trail, is this lovely subdivision**3BR/1.75BA home**Wood floors**High ceilings **Ceiling fans**Cozy fireplace**Country club type living with pool and other Amenities**$116,900**Owner has an lic. in AZ**Call BARRY 240-7130.

aLL THIS PLUS a GUEST HOUSE!!Near Houghton/Old Spanish Trail**Amazing views**Main house has over 3400 sqft w/4BR/3BA**Two master suites**Huge din-ing room**60’ rear deck**Pool w/electric heat**Fountains**3 car garage**3.29 acres horse property**1BR guest house has 891 sqft**$565,000!!**Call BARRY 240-7130.

GREaT PLaCE TO CaLL HOMEWindow Rock East north of I-10 off Wilmot**This 1400 sqft manufactured home in a gated community**Master bath has garden tub & sepa-rate shower**All appl. & many wood blinds **North facing rear yard**Cov patio is on east side**8x10 storage/shop w/professionally installed electric and skylight** $89,000** Call BARRY 240-7130.

REnTaL REnTaL REnTaLHoughton/Drexel**HUGE3,400sqft**5BR/3BA**Liv rm, fam rm & oversized loft**1BR/BA downstairs**Xlnt Vail Schools**2 area pools**$1,700**Pets okay max 2 @ $150 each refundable deposit** DAVID 240-4493.

20 Ways to add Curb appealIf your home’s curb appeal makes a great first impression, everyone -- including

potential homebuyers -- will want to see what’s inside. Check out these simple, low-cost improvements that you can do in a day, a week, or a month.

In a day

Create perfeCt symmetrysymmetry is not only pleasing to the eye, it's also the simplest to arrange. symmetrical compositions of light fixtures and front-door accents create welcoming entry-ways.

replaCe old hardwarehouse numbers, the entry door lockset, a wall-mounted mailbox, and an overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home's exterior. If they're out of date or dingy, your home may not be con-veying the aesthetic you think it is. these elements add the most appeal when they function collectively, rather than as mix-and-match pieces. oiled-bronze finishes suit traditional homes, while brushed nickel suits more contemporary ones.

dress up the front dooryour home's front entry is the focal point of its curb ap-peal. make a statement by giving your front door a blast of color with paint or by installing a custom wood door. Clean off any dirty spots around the knob, and use metal polish on the door fixtures. your entry should also reflect the home's interior, so choose a swag or a wreath that reflects your per-sonal style.

do a maIlbox makeovermailboxes should complement the home and express the homeowner's personality. when choosing a hanging drop box, pick a box that mirrors your home's trimmings. dress up posted boxes by staining or painting the wooden post to match the house's trim and woodwork. Create structures for your box from materials found throughout the hardscaping. warning: Consult a professional when designing and building structures.

Install outdoor lIghtInglow-voltage landscape lighting makes a huge impact on your home's curb appeal while also pro-viding safety and security. fixtures can add accent lighting to trees or the house or can illuminate a walking path. If you aren't able

to use lights that require wiring, install solar fixtures (but

understand that their light levels are not as bright or as reliable).

Create an Instant gardenContainer gardens add a welcoming feel and colorful appeal to any home exterior -- quickly and affordably. you can buy ready-made containers from garden centers or create your own with your favorite plants. for most land-scapes, a staggered, asymmetrical arrangement works best to create a dynamic setting/

renew planter bedsget garden beds into shape by pruning growth, pulling weeds, planting flowers, and adding new mulch to restore color that was taken away by sunlight and harsh weather. If stone or brick borders your bed, consider cleaning and

resetting any pieces that are soiled or dislodged. If your border is old or tired-looking, try upgrading to stone or a decorative cast-concrete edging system.

Install wIndow boxeswindow boxes offer a fast, easy way to bring color and charm to your home exterior. Choose boxes made from copper or iron for a traditional look, or painted wood for a cottage feel. mix and match flowers and plants to suit your lighting conditions and color scheme.

In a Weekendmake a grand entryeven with a small budget, there are ways to draw atten-tion to your front door. molding acts like an architectural eyeliner when applied to the sides & top of the doorway.

add outdoor artgive your yard a little spunk by adding weather-resistant artwork. Choose pieces that complement your home’s natural palette & exterior elements. bird-baths, metal cutouts, sculptures, & wind chimes are good choices for outdoor art. water sculptures not only function as yard art, but the burbling sounds soothe & make hot days feel cooler. place fountains on level ground in optimum hearing & sight vantage points. avoid spots in leaf-dropping range.

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Add shutters or Accent trimshutters and trim add a welcoming layer of beauty to your home’s exterior. shutters also control light and ventilation, and provide additional security. exterior shut-ters can be made of wood, aluminum, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass. New composite materials, such as PVC resins or polyurethane, make trim details durable and low maintenance.

Add Arbors or feNCe PANelsArbors, garden gates, and short sections of decorative fence panels will enhance your garden and the value of your home. these amenities can be found in easy-to-build kits or prefab sections you simply connect together. For best results, paint or stain these items with colors already on your house

CreAte A New PlANtiNg bedAdd contrast and color to your home exterior with a new plant-ing bed. Prime spots are at the front corners of the yard, along driveways or walkways, and im-mediately in front of the house. When creating a new bed, choose features that will frame your home rather than obscure it. opt for stone or precast-concrete blocks

to edge the bed. include a mix of plant size, color, and texture for optimal results.

rePlACe gutters ANd dowNsPoutsif your home has an older gutter system, odds are it’s also suffering from peeling paint, rust spots, or other problems that can convey a sense of neglect. replace old systems with newer, snap-fit vinyl gutter systems that go together with few tools and require no painting. cop-per systems, while pricier, convey an unmistakable look of quality.

In a Monthtile your doorstePcreate a permanent welcome mat by tiling or painting a design that contrasts with the porch floor or front stoop. not only will you not have to worry about replacing the mat when it gets ratty, but you can impress your visitors with your creativity.

dress uP the driVewAyif your driveway is cracked or stained or has vegetation sprouting from it, you can upgrade it without doing a complete redo. First repair the cracks and stains (and kill the weeds), then dress it up by staining the concrete or affixing flagstones. if you need more room to move your

car or park, add stone, brick, or pavers to the sides of the drive to widen it with flair.

build A wAlkwAyWell-designed walkways make your home feel warm and inviting. For a dra-matic improvement to a straight concrete path, replace it with a contoured one made of stone or brick. For a less radical

upgrade, apply a colored concrete resurfacer to the old walkway, then edge with brick or stone borders. Brick pavers offer traditional, classic beauty to the landscape of any home.

uPgrAde rAiliNgsPorch and stoop railings can deteriorate quickly if not treated properly. if your railings are past their prime, look for quality wood or metal components to replace the existing material. As with other improvements attached directly to the house, make sure the color, scale, design, details, and material are compatible with the home’s main features.

reNew PAiNt, sidiNg, ANd trimAn exterior facelift (new paint, siding, or trim details) auto-matically transforms the look of a home. Periodic maintenance of that exterior sur-face is the surest way to keep your house

looking its best. Any obvious defects, such as cracked or rotting material, can downgrade the aesthetic and quickly turn away potential homebuyers. once defects are re-paired, look for ways to add personality with color, trim, or shingles.

APPly stoNe VeNeernothing carries pedigree and permanence like stone. it’s a great option for dressing up exterior features such as concrete foundations, column footings, and other mason-ry details. natural and manufactured stone can be costly options for large expanses, but both are affordable and well suited for use as accent material.

information and photos have been used from better homes & gardens.

more information can be found at www.bhg.com.

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The most important thing to understand when consider-ing tax deductions for home improvements is the differ-ence between an improvement and a repair. Basically, an improvement adds to the value of the home. This can be adding a swimming pool, enlarging or adding rooms, or even fencing the backyard. A repair does not add to the value of the home, it simply prevents the value from drop-ping. A repair to a damaged roof or the replacement of leaking plumbing fixtures is a repair.

When the improvements are also used to conserve energy, there may be additional credits offered by the IRS. These conservation based credits vary from year to year, but the trend has been to increase them as the need to conserve energy becomes more of a National priority. It is always wise to look into the tax credits offered for environmentally friendly items, such as solar water heaters, when planning an improvement. Even some repairs can be converted to tax deductions if the repair qualifies for an energy credit.

A home improvement for medical pur-poses is a separate area that could have tax impact. If you add a pool, or make a home more handicapped friendly, the cost of the improvement could be considered as a medical deduction. In order to do this, you must have a written statement from a doctor that the improvement was recom-mended for medical purposes. You also need to realize that the medical deduction will only be valid for the amount that exceeds the increased value of the home as a result of the improvement. It should be remembered that medical expenses must exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income in order to be claimed as a deduction.

Another way that home improvements might be helpful as tax deductions is to borrow the money for the improve-ment. This allows the interest on the improvement loan

to be considered as a tax deduction. Once again, there are regulations that control the amount of the deduction and how and when it may be claimed. You can even donate all of the left over material from your home improvement project to a charity, such as one that

builds low cost housing, and then claim the cost of the material as a charitable deduction.

The key to any home improvement deduction is accurate and honest record keeping. This is pretty much the case for any type of deduction, but may be more necessary in

a home improvement project than in most others. It is not a bad idea to have independent appraisals done before and after the project to provide accurate information on the value of the home.

More information can be found online at www.businesstaxrecovery.com

Tax DeDucTions for Home improvemenTsIt is possible to make improvements to your home & save some money at tax time

at the same time. Tax deductions for home improvements follow some definite guidelines.

If you add a pool, or make a home more handicapped friendly, the cost of the im-provement could be considered as a medi-cal deduction.

You can even donate all of the left over ma-terial from your home improvement project to a charity...and then claim the cost of the material as a chari-table deduction.

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WHAT ABOUT TAX CREDITS?

A tax credit is generally more valuable than an equivalent tax deduction because a tax credit reduces tax dollar-for-dollar, while a deduction only removes a percentage of the tax that is owed. Consumers can itemize purchases on their federal income tax form, which will lower the total amount of tax they owe the government.

Fuel-efficient vehicles and energy-efficient appliances and products provide many benefits such as better gas mileage -meaning lower gasoline costs, fewer emissions, lower energy bills, increased indoor comfort, and reduced air pollution.

In addition to federal tax incentives, some consumers will also be eligible for utility or state rebates, as well as state tax incentives for energy-efficient homes, vehicles and equipment. Each state’s energy office web site may have more information on specific state tax information.

HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT TAX CREDITSConsumers who purchase and install specific products, such as energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs, and heating and cooling equipment in existing homes can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost, up to $1,500, for improvements “placed in service” starting January 1, 2009, through December 31, 2010. See EnergyStar.gov’s Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency for a complete summary of energy efficiency tax credits available to con-sumers.

RESIDENTIAL RENEWABLE ENERGY TAX CREDITSConsumers who install solar energy systems (including solar water heating and solar electric systems), small wind systems, geothermal heat pumps, and residential fuel cell and microturbine systems can receive a 30% tax credit for systems placed in service before December 31, 2016; the previous tax credit cap no longer applies.

More information can be found at www.energy.gov.

Home organization tips: Clearing Clutter

Clear away clutter for a more productive and comfortable home environment.By Tom Kraeutler

It’s time to stroll around your home and find ways to efficiently improve your home organization, improve household traffic patterns, and dump the clutter that adds stress to your life and wastes energy. These tips can help.

Getting your home organized doesn’t have to be ac-complished in a single day to be successful. Instead of rushing through a home organization project, go room to room over a period of several days. Spend a set amount of time in each room to take inventory, sorting and removing what’s no longer needed. Plan purchases of home organizational items and installa-tions that will efficiently organize what remains of the inventory.

With a little thought and muscle, you can create a more enjoyable home environment and quite pos-sibly have your most organized year yet. Here are a few home organization tips for your de-cluttering crusade:

Be a guest in your own Home

In living spaces that are used the most, take a step back and consider how a guest might view the room. There’s a fine line between “lived-in” and disorga-nized, and the amount of clutter is what tips the bal-ance one way or the other. Remove anything that isn’t used or needed daily, and use storage containers for the items that tend to be free-floating.

make Home organization a destination

Set up easy-to-use home organization centers at key points in the home, such as entryways, mud rooms, and laundry areas. If you don’t have an entire room designated as a home office, carve out a small but functional space in the kitchen or elsewhere to be used for managing mail, making phone calls, and In-ternet access.

a plaCe for everytHing, and everytHing in its plaCe

Furnish rooms with wall systems that can accom-

modate shelves and drawers, and add clever double duty pieces, like ottomans with cushioned tops that can be removed to reveal handy storage.

look up

When searching for storage places, don’t neglect the area above your head. Many manufacturers make storage systems that capitalized on space overhead for storage of bicycles or boxes, especially useful in a garage. Racor, for example, has a cabling system that allows easy storage of one or two bikes, as well as a HeavyLift platform system that can safely raise 16 square feet of storage weighing up to 250 lbs into unused space overhead.

tips to display your Home organization-al flair

As you load up those wall systems with your must have belongings, take care to arrange visible items in a way that showcases a soothing selection rather than impending overflow. Again, think like a guest; does that shelf of DVDs say “eclectic movie library”, or “there’s no way I’ll ever get around to watching all of these”?

profit from tHe results

When setting apart the items you can do without, consider selling or donating anything gently used or collectible. Team up with neighboring organizers for a yard sale, set up online auctions, or, if you happen to itemize your deductions, donate clothing, furniture and books for a break at tax time.

These home organization tips will free up your time for other home improvement projects on the horizon, and you’ll spend less time on finding places for items that will now have a place to call home.

More information can be found at www.moneypit.com

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