Small-scale renovation projects continue to provide the best return for homeowners

(ARA) - Even as spring approaches, the residential real estate market continues to be rough on American homeowners more than three years after the start of the nationwide housing crisis.

Although sales of existing homes are up slightly from 2010 levels, the median home price is still down throughout most of the country, according to the National Association of Realtors.

This means that many homeowners are continuing to sit tight and are looking for ways to make their current houses work for them just a little bit longer, until the real estate market improves.

But even when it comes to home renovations, it is important to be smart about how you spend your money, as the value of many large-scale home improvement projects is also questionable in today's economy. Homeowners who made improvements in 2011 picked up only 58 cents in home equity on their remodeling dollar (on average), according to the Cost versus Value report released by Remodeling Magazine. Compared to figures in 2005, when home improvement projects provided a 76 percent cost return, the current data is hardly a motivator to proceed with that long-dreamed total kitchen renovation.

Woodlake home with Sierra views

37385  Millwood Dr,  Woodlake, listed at $419,000.

Take a look at this custom, open floor-plan home built by RUPP with views of the valley and the Sierras in the distance. 

Sitting on 2.44 acres, this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home features Hardi Plank siding, solar panels (PGE aver. $100 mo), a generator for emergencies, a whole-house fan, Solar Tube, tile floors throughout most of the home (carpet in bedrooms) and an oversized garage. 

The home is 1,898 square feet. The kitchen has granite countertops, Jenn-Aire Appliances, an island/vegetable sink, roll-out shelving in raised panel Alderwood cabinets and a corner window to catch views of Sierras. 

The interior features vaulted ceilings and plenty of windows to the patio and fenced yard for pets. There is a corner floor-to-ceiling heatolator fireplace. 

The formal dining room has buffet and bay window facing the west hills. The spacious laundry room has cabinets, including a washer/dryer. 

The insulated, oversized garage has more cabinets and a pull-down ladder to overhead storage. 

The air conditioning was replaced 2011! 

The owner's suite has a walk in closet, French doors to patio, bay window sitting area and walk in shower. 

The circular drive invites your guests to meander up stepping stones to cozy front porch.

Call Darlene for an appointment today! (559) 625-9364. 

Small, quick repairs have a big impact on your home's curb appeal - and value

(ARA) - As the weather continues to warm, you might be thinking about some of the home improvement projects you put on the back burner during the winter. As you once again consult your to-do list, it's the perfect time to think about a few small projects that can greatly enhance your home's curb appeal.

Where does a smart homeowner start? The answer: Begin with a few small projects that are guaranteed to greatly enhance your home's curb appeal. Whether you're preparing to sell your home, or are simply trying to protect your investment and make it easier on the eyes, there are a few common improvements that can give the exterior of your home a quick and easy facelift.

Start with the driveway
Repaving or reconstructing your driveway entirely can be a time consuming and expensive task, but for most homeowners, this can be avoided with some annual maintenance. If you neglect your driveway, cracks can quickly grow into potholes, which can cause it to lose its aesthetic appeal and pose a safety concern. A few hours work each year can greatly extend the life of your driveway.

This Visalia home has its own fitness center

3030  W Iris Ave,  Visalia, listed at $399,000.

This elegant in-town estate has a new price: $399,000.

This Royal Oaks home has it all. Enjoy a sparkling pool and spa with a waterfall. It also has a fitness center that includes a steam shower and sauna (335 square feet).

Inside this 3,108-square-foot home are floor-to-ceiling windows at the front and rear of the house, creating lots of natural light in the open living area and offering great views of a lush park-like yard.

There are tile floors in the entry, hall, living room, kitchen, laundry and owner's suite. There is a fourth bedroom/office with full bath, offering lots of privacy.

The remodeled kitchen has raised-panel cabinets, a center island with vegetable sink, roll-out shelving, pantry, and a SubZero refrigerator.

There are skylights in the vaulted wood ceiling, extending into the dining room with oak floors and another skylight - all electronically controlled.

The spacious guest bedroom wing has full bath and a 11'X16' family/computer room.

The owner's suite has a wall of windows overlooking the patio and yard with vaulted a ceiling. The three-sided fireplace splits the elegant, remodeled bath area with top-set sinks, jetted tub with leaded glass backdrop, a huge shower and a walk-in closet.

This unique property is a must see. For more information and pictures, click here.

Call Darlene Loose for an appointment today! (559) 625-9364

Tax credit and deduction tips for home improvement in 2012

(ARA) - With the new year under way, you may be thinking about needed home improvements and how you'll use your credit to fund them. While it's important to understand your credit before making major home improvement decisions, you should also consider another kind of credit - tax credits for energy efficient home improvements.

For the past few years, the federal government has offered tax credits for certain home improvements aimed at increasing a home's energy efficiency. While the most popular and generous tax credits, such as the one that allowed you to claim up to 30 percent of improvements such as a new roof or hot water heater, have expired, you can still get credit for other significant energy-efficient improvements.

According to EnergyStar.gov, you can claim a tax credit for 30 percent of the cost of installing a geothermal heat pump, small wind turbine or solar energy system in your home. The credit has no upper limit and applies to both existing homes and new construction, but not to rental properties. This credit is good until Dec. 31, 2016.