The Top 10 Trendiest Home Features

Whether you are thinking of selling your home now or in the near future or have your eye on remodeling and want to make sure you will have a  solid return on your investment, think about which features make your home more desirable when it is time to sell. You want your home to stand out in front of the crowd. Be the trend setter and not the trend follower.

An analysis of the Realtor.com listings over the past five years found that the following items were listed most often, solidifying a venerable spot among buyers favorites.

1. Open Floor Plan

2. Open Kitchen

3. Vaulted Ceiling

4. Walk-in closet

5.  Formal Dining Room

6.  Stainless steel appliances

7.  Granite Counter

8.  Wood Floor

9.  Carpet

10. Fireplace

As a Broker in the industry for over 32 years, I have seen many trends come and go and come again.  In addition to the above 10 items I would like to add a few myself that I have seen most recent. 

1. Outdoor living spaces with fireplaces or fire pit for gatherings.

2. Open Concept Homes

3. Energy-efficient Fixtures and Appliances

4. Two-tone kitchen cabinets. Keeping the upper cabinets white or neutral for a clean timeless feel then the lower or center island going with a color or various wood tones to create two different style directions.

5. Extra large format tile making an appearance in both the kitchen, baths, laundry rooms.

6. Niche appliances for a little added luxury in the kitchen.

7.  Workhorse large Islands in the kitchen. Large islands add additional work space but also tremendous amount of storage, prep sinks, room for seating. These islands have become the focal point of the room.

8.  Statement mirrors in the Bathrooms. Seeing a lot of large wood-framed beauties, backlit modern marvels creating style in the bathroom.

9.  Kitchens that embrace openness with raw materials being used. Modern materials, finishes and colors also being used. Like a butcher block counter tops getting broken up with soapstone near the stove and Carrara marble on a nearby baking station.

10.Surprising back splash and counter tops. The traditional subway back splash and granite counter tops are becoming boring and the newest trend is brick back splash with concrete counter tops or like yellow ceramic tile with butcher block cg.   

11. Attention seeking bedrooms. The ole so popular TV show "Fixer Upper" and the popular ship lap or bolder looks like a rustic wood wall and ceiling feature warms up the room and creates character.  The days are gone where a fresh coat of paint is more desirable than a beautiful feature wall that creates character and warmth.

12. Master Baths that feel like a spa or a living space extension from the house.

13. Fireplaces and fire features are always a big hit and desire and are coming back as a living room focal point in lieu of the dark void of a TV screen.

As always if you are thinking of remodeling any part of your home and would like an opinion from a resale standpoint, feel free to call, text or email me. I would be happy to help you. Also if you are giving your home a little update with the intention of selling it soon, definitely call me and I would be happy to guide you through the biggest bang for your buck and spend as little as possible.

11. Sun rooms.  A sun room is a top dream or added bonus for many homeowners, however folks are finding ways to carve out a special sun-drenched, well lite corner in their homes.

 Message from Karen:

If you are thinking of Buying, click on the button below (Click here to search ALL listings) and start searching all the available homes for sale in ALL of Greater Louisville and surrounding counties. If you find anything of interest and would like to check it out, just call, text or email me and I would be happy to set up an appointment for you to check out the property. 

If you are thinking of selling, call me for  a FREE home evaluation in your neighborhood, from staging, pricing, housing values, interest rates, how appraisers are valuing properties, now that the guidelines have changed. I would love to sit down and talk with you. Just call me and let me know how I can help with your real estate needs, buying or selling or both.  I give exclusive representation.  If you are not sure whether you want to sell for fear of not finding that perfect larger home, click on the Search All Area Listings properties below and start searching the areas and see what is out there. I do have a list of contractors whether you decide to remodel or purchase or both.  I can supply you with a list of contractors. I would be honored and happy to help you. 

Click Here!            Click Here!      

Karen Rodriguez, Broker/Owner of Kentucky Life Realty

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

Cell: 502-643-2255

Email: Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website: www.kyliferealty.com

Have you ever wondered how the Appraisal process works?

Maintain Your Spring Cleaning Efforts Through the Winter

With the holidays underway, your spring cleaning efforts may be a distant memory at this point however, the current grime creeping back in is not. Having the time to conduct another “spring cleaning” in the middle of parties, family gatherings, gift exchanging and the regular book club is just non-existent. I get it. Don’t panic just yet! Here are a few things I suggest to make the holidays a little fresher without a lot of elbow grease:

1. Wash out those garbage cans and waste containers

You are going to be locked in the entire winter season with these things so, they might as well not be incubators for germs and stench. Before it gets too cold and before you have put away that garden hose, spray them all out with a plant based, organic or, environmentally friendly cleaner (something that disinfects naturally and doesn’t cause any harm to yourself or to your remaining grass that receives the run-off).

2. The same goes for the toilet brush holder next to your toilets

As you are dragging your trash cans outside to disinfect, make sure to toss in your toilet brush holders that are sitting next to your toilets (and probably next to your bathroom trash can). Disinfect these with the same cleaner and if they are really nasty, let them soak in cleaner a couple of hours before you dry them off and bring them back to their home.

3. Change out any plastic shower liners

You know you have seen that pink grimy, pre-mold gunk on your plastic shower liner start creeping back. Go ahead and replace it; they are cheap and harbor way more bacteria and germs than you think.

4. Clean/Dust the tops of Doors, Window framing, and any Wall Hangings

I realize that you, nor anyone else, will be taking your step ladder in your kitchen to check to see if there is any dust above your doorways or family photos however, it’s good to go ahead and keep up with the dust. Dust settles there just like it does on your furniture throughout the year. It also is a collector of soot from the fire place that will soon be seeing a lot of action (if it hasn’t already…..mine is already in full working order I assure you).  Again, utilize a plant based or organic cleaner and please don’t utilize a ladder unless someone is around to make sure you are safe!

5. The same goes for electric plates, kitchen cabinet fronts and mirrors. 

6. Wipe your fridge out

Before you start storing leftovers from your holiday parties and family functions, make sure to wipe out your refrigerator. Not only will it run more efficiently which means less utility/maintenance cost, it will provide a germ-free environment for your fruit cakes. 

After you clean the inside of your refrigerator, make sure to check the outside. With some assistance from your teenage child or significant other (whom is maybe still looking to be on Santa’s “nice list”), unplug the refrigerator and pull it out (only if the condenser coils are on the back and make sure you put something on the floor to protect it from scratching). Check to see if the external coils are free from dust. If not, take the attachment on your vacuum and gently suck up the dust and any debris that falls on the floor. 

If your coils are on the front of the refrigerator, you will want to do this from the front after removing the protective face plate

7. Make your entry way “winter friendly”

Place an outdoor mat in the entry way to put dirty shoes and to protect the floor. Also place a foot scraper outside the door to scrape mud and slush off dirty shoes prior to entry. 

Compliments to Sandi Lanham for contributing this Blog.

 Message from Karen:

If you are thinking of Buying, click on the button below (Click here to search ALL listings) and start searching all the available homes for sale in ALL of Greater Louisville and surrounding counties. If you find anything of interest and would like to check it out, just call, text or email me and I would be happy to set up an appointment for you to check out the property. 

If you are thinking of selling, call me for  a FREE home evaluation in your neighborhood, from staging, pricing, housing values, interest rates, how appraisers are valuing properties, now that the guidelines have changed. I would love to sit down and talk with you. Just call me and let me know how I can help with your real estate needs, buying or selling or both.  I give exclusive representation.  If you are not sure whether you want to sell for fear of not finding that perfect larger home, click on the Search All Area Listings properties below and start searching the areas and see what is out there. I do have a list of contractors whether you decide to remodel or purchase or both.  I can supply you with a list of contractors. I would be honored and happy to help you. 

Click Here!            Click Here!      

Karen Rodriguez, Broker/Owner of Kentucky Life Realty

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

Cell: 502-643-2255

Email: Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website: www.kyliferealty.com

     Just Listed! 1700 Victory Court, Prospect, KY  40059, Yacht Club Estates (1446848)

Listed By: Karen L. Rodriguez with Kentucky Life Realty, 502-643-2255 email: soldbyk@gmail.com

 Come own a Piece of Paradise in Prospect on the river with river views. You now have the opportunity of owning one of the choice private back lots with privacy, nothing in the rear and sit on your patio, grilling out and enjoy the stress free lifestyle while hearing the boats sailing by. Spectacular totally remodeled home with exquisite detail. Bring your most discriminating buyer. Open the beautiful leaded glass entry way and take in all the exquisite décor with the huge remodel just completed in 2015, all new paint, crown moldings, wainscoting, new post and balusters, new flooring, new tile in laundry, all new rich stunning kitchen with 42” high cabinets with slide out shelves and easy close doors, granite counters, new back splash, under cabinet lighting, new sink, faucet, new dish

washer, new glass basement door, new custom built-in cabinets in dining room with book shelves, 2 new sets of French doors in great room to enjoy that beautiful private patio. New ceiling fans, absolutely stunning ledge stone to ceiling fireplace with custom mantle, new fireplace gas insert with remote, 2 new comfort height toilets on main level, new double sliding screen doors, gorgeous finished basement used as 2nd family room, new sump pump, new roof 2016, new dining room light, extended patio to enjoy the river view and this list goes on. You absolutely don't want to miss this opportunity to check out this stunning home, stress free laid back atmosphere. Did I mention if you have a boat or thinking of taking advantage of living on the river, ask about the additional valet boating minutes from where you live. One look and you will fall in love with this super open floor plan and soaring ceilings which makes it a great and perfect floor plan to entertain. Call Today!

QUICK DETAILS:

Subdivision:  Yacht Club Estates

Address:  1700 Victory Court, Prospect, KY  40059

Price:  $292,900.00

MLS:  1446848

Style:  1.5 Story

Sq.Ft.:  2036 

              300 Sq.Ft. finished in Lower Level

Total Sq. Ft. Finished: 2336

Bedrooms: 3

Baths: 3

Attached 2 car garage

For more information or to schedule a private showing, call, text or email Karen Rodriguez with Kentucky Life Realty at 502-643-2255 or email: Soldbyk@gmail.com

     This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Broker/Owner

Kentucky Life Realty

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI- SFR

Cell:  502-643-2255

Email:  Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

 Click here to search          Thinking of Selling?  

ALL available properties FOR SALE:          Click here to find your Homes Va

                    JUST LISTED! 1706 Victory Court, Prospect, KY 40059 in Yacht Club Estates (1446553)

 Listed By: Karen L. Rodriguez with Kentucky Life Realty, 502-643-2255

Choice Lot, River View, Custom Built with exquisite décor. Peaceful and stress free atmosphere await. Sit on the patios with your beverage and enjoy hearing the sounds of the water and watching the yachts and boats on the river. Feel like you are on vacation all the time. This custom build spared no details, larger home has an open floor plan with split bedroom design, 3 large suites with own baths, soaring ceilings in great room, Florida room, and master suite. Welcome your guests into an open dining area/great room combination with beautiful huge archways into your Florida Room, 2 sided fireplace with mantles on both sides which opens to an awesome Florida room with views of the river. Large custom gourmet kitchen, maple cabinets stained then glazed, kitchen made larger, granite counters extra cabinets added, under cabinet lighting, tiled back splash with glass inlay design tiles, breakfast bar, GE stainless steel appliances with Advantium oven/microwave, huge bay window with gorgeous serene views. First floor huge master suite, soaring ceiling with view of the river, walk in closet, whirlpool tub, double bowl vanity and walk in shower. 1st floor laundry with cabinets and wash tub. 2nd Bedroom with own bath, double window, double closet, 2nd floor boasts a private suite with its own bath. This home also features full unfinished basement, plumbed for 4th bath, with tall ceilings ready to be finished which was extra, as all the homes had half basements, also boasts a over sized 2.5 car garage. Lot 4 was one of the premium lots with private river views. Upgrades in this home include hardwood flooring, larger kitchen, tile in kitchen, baths and laundry, under cabinet lighting, top of line maple, stained, glazed cabinets, same cabinetry in baths, tile back splash, Vaulted Florida Room, Vaulted Master, central vac, security system, all baths tiled, no enclosures, full length windows in rear of home to take advantage of river views, 2 custom patios across whole back of home to also take advantage of river views, full basement, ove rsized 2.5 car garage, biggest drive, moldings and the list goes on. New Roof, gutters and screens in April 2016 due to hail storm. New sealed driveway and newly painted design garage floor. You name it and this home has it all, check it out, it won't last for this square footage and upgrades at this price on the river with river view from the whole back of home. Seller is licensed Broker. Attention boat lovers, there is an option for a fee to valet your boat, have it stored and call ahead to have it put in the river and ready for you to take off. You will love it here, Call Today! 

QUICK DETAILS:

Subdivision:   Yacht Club Estates

Built: Original owner custom built in 2008

Address:  1706 Victory Court, Prospect, KY  40059

Price:  $317,900.00

MLS: 1446553

Style:  1.5 Story

Sq.Ft.:  2590 Sq.Ft.

             1055 Sq.Ft. unifinished basement

Bedrooms:  3

Baths: 3

Attached 2.5 car garage

 For more information call, text or email, Karen Rodriguez with Kentucky Life Realty, 502-643-2255, soldbyk@gmail.com.

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Broker/Owner

Kentucky Life Realty

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI- SFR

Cell:  502-643-2255

Email:  Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

 Click here to search          Thinking of Selling?  

ALL available properties FOR SALE:          Click here to find your Homes Value. 

JUST LISTED! 4105 E Pages Lane, Louisville, KY 40272 in Old Vineyard Place (1443440)

           Listed By: Karen L. Rodriguez with Kentucky Life Realty,  502-643-2255

Welcome Home to this Beautiful Brick Ranch with full finished lower level. Great open split floor plan with private master suite to one end and 2 other bedrooms and full bath at the other end. Beautiful large entry opens into a spacious great room with dramatic ceiling and fireplace with mantle perfect for displaying prized special moments. Great area for entertaining with overflow out onto a large deck with additional entrances from the kitchen and master bedroom. Fully equipped eat in kitchen with picturesque Dining nook with High Dramatic Ceiling to bring in lots of natural lighting. The first floor is concluded with a formal Dining Room and laundry. There are lots of crafted details that you will find in this stunning home: tray ceilings, crown and dental moldings and, vaulted dramatic ceilings. The finished lower level is designed for the gamer and entertainer's enthusiast. Spacious open floor plan allows for theater like setting along with separate areas for guests to converse. Updates include: carpet in living room, hallway and dining room, paint, lighting, 3rd bath in basement, full finished basement, 2 yr old water heater, basement water proofed 2012, Bone Dry, transferable warranty, kitchen flooring, security system, driveway addition, tinted rear windows in kitchen. Super location close to Shopping, Dining, Entertainment, Snyder Freeway and Dixie Highway. Call Today!!

Quick Details:

Subdivision:  Old Vineyard Place

Address:  4105 E Pages Lane, Louisville, KY 40272

Price:  $239,900.00

MLS:  1443440

Style:  Ranch with finished Lower Level

Sq.Ft.:  1800 1st floor

             1538 Lower Level

Total Sq.Ft. Finished:  3338

Bedrooms: 3

Baths: 3

Attached 2 car garage

For more information or to schedule a private showing, call, text or email Karen Rodriguez with Kentucky Life Realty at 502-643-2255 or email: Soldbyk@gmail.com

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Broker/Owner

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI- SFR

Cell:  502-643-2255

Email:  Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

 Click here to search          Thinking of Selling?  

ALL available properties FOR SALE:          Click here to find your Homes Value.

JUST LISTED! 5002 Ardossan Sq. Louisville, KY  40241 in desirable Cobblestone (1438438)

     Listed By:  Karen L. Rodriguez with Integrity Group Realtors,  502-643-2255

Location! Location! Stunning newly painted townhome with 3 BRS, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage in desirable Cobblestone. Stylish open floor plan, fantastic for entertaining. Beautiful large entry with coat closet, lighted niche for displaying your favorite heirloom and large half bath. Gorgeous, open great room with 9' ceilings, eye catching corner gas fireplace with mantle opens to dining room with patio access. You will love the beautiful kitchen! Lots of raised panel maple cabinets, black appliances, a pantry and even a pass through for serving your guests. Beautiful flooring. Upstairs are 3 bedrooms including a huge master suite with built-ins flanking the double window. Private master bath and large walk in closet with built-ins you will love and make it easy to stay organized.

The landing boasts a built-in office area, full bath, 2 other bedrooms and laundry room. Cobblestone features a pool and clubhouse with fitness center. A beautiful community to call home. Close to everything. Schedule your appointment today!

Quick Details:

Subdivision:  Cobblestone

Address:  5002 Ardossan Sq. Louisville, KY  40241

Price:  $189,900.00

MLS: 1438438

Sq.Ft.: 1700

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.5

Attached 2 car  garage

For more information or to schedule a private showing, call, text or email Karen Rodriguez,

  with Integrity Group Realtors at 502-643-2255 or email: soldbyk@gmail.com

    Flyer:        

  This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Associate Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI- SFR

Cell:  502-643-2255

Email:  Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

 Click here to search          Thinking of Selling?  

ALL available properties FOR SALE:          Click here to find your Homes Value.

JUST LISTED! 1704 Anchorage Court, Prospect, KY  40059 in Yacht Club Estates (MLS1430841)

    Listed By:  Karen L. Rodriguez with Integrity Group Realtors, 502-643-2255

Come experience Paradise! Exquisite 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath gorgeous home with finished lower level on the River.  Peaceful and stress free atmosphere awaits! Feel like you are on vacation year round. Everything you need is one the first floor including laundry with special guest suite with privacy on 2nd floor and recreational room in lower level. Check it out, you will absolutely fall in love the moment you step inside. 

Quick Details:

Subdivision:  Yacht Club Estates

Address:  1704 Anchorage Court, Prospect, KY  40059

Price:  $264,500.00

MLS:  1430841

Sq.Ft. 2658 

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 3 Full Suites including First Floor Master Suite

Attached 2 car garage

Lot Size:  .25/acre close to River (Large fenced backyard)

For more information or to schedule a private showing, call or text, Karen Rodriguez,

with Integrity Group Realtors at 502-643-2255 or send a quick email to soldbyk@gmail.com

Come experience Paradise! Exquisite 3 BR, 3 bath home with finished basement on the River. Peaceful and stress free atmosphere awaits! Feel like you are on vacation all the time. Stunning open floor plan w/split bedroom design, 3 large suites w/own baths. Welcome your guests into an open dining area/great room combination w/soaring ceilings, all new flooring, gorgeous fireplace w/mantle flanked by 2 atrium doors. Large custom gourmet kitchen w/new granite countertops, new backsplash, new sink, faucet, stainless steel appliances and breakfast bar. An abundance of cabinetry including a lazy susan and huge bay window. First floor master suite w/walk in closet, soaking tub, double bowl vanity and walk in shower. 1st floor laundry w/cabinets and wash tub.

Upstairs is the 3rd suite and own bath, fantastic for guests and their privacy. The professionally finished lower level screams come hangout as rec room, work out room, another super area to hang in. Attached 2 car garage and fenced in back yard. Original owners have made the following updates: professionally finished lower level, new flooring, entire house newly painted, new staircase ballasters and newel post, updated kitchen w/new granite countertops, new backsplash, sink, faucet, stainless refrigerator and range, 2012, new entry storm/screen door, new atrium door and screens replaced, louvered blinds, new fence, 2013 with trees. Short distance to the marina. Attention Boaters: There is even valet boating available for a fee, yes that is right Valet Boating, pack that boating attire, lunch, soft drinks, call ahead 45 minutes, drive your golf cart down and away you sail. Award winning Oldham County Schools, North Oldham District. Call for more details on this spectacular home and surroundings.

Flyer: 

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Associate Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI- SFR

Cell:  502-643-2255

Email:  Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

 Click here to search          Thinking of Selling?  

ALL available properties FOR SALE:          Click here to find your Homes Value.

JUST LISTED! 501 Hill Ridge Road, Louisville, KY  40214, in Kenwood Estates (MLS1431041)

                       Listed By:  Karen Rodriguez with Integrity Group Realtors

Just Listed in Kenwood Estates. Private, Tranquil, peaceful setting with stunning view awaits you. Gorgeous remodeled home on .29/acre.

Quick Details:

Subdivision:  Kenwood Estates

Address:  501 Hill Ridge Road, Louisville, KY  40214

Price:  $175,900.00

MLS:  1431041

Sq.Ft. 2100 

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2 Full and 1 half

Oversized 2.5 car garage

Lot Size:  .29/acre with a great view located on cul-de-sac.

For more information or to schedule a private showing, call or text, Karen Rodriguez,

with Integrity Group Realtors at 502-643-2255 or send a quick email to soldbyk@gmail.com

  Private, tranquil, peaceful setting with stunning view awaits you in Kenwood Estates. Enjoy your coffee or tea on your private patio listening to all of nature. One owner home in pristine condition located on deadend cul-de-sac on the hill. Open the front door and let Southern Charm welcome you in such a way you'd be proud to make this home your own. Beautiful refinished hardwood floors, lots of moldings and plantation shutters throughout. Large cheerful living room, lots of light w/3 large windows, great views, beautiful fireplace opens to formal dining room w/chair rail & wainscoting and 2 windows overlooking nature. Large eat in kitchen w/granite countertops, pergo type flooring, pantry, new sink, faucet, french doors to very private flagstone patio, great for entertaining.

All appliances to remain. Very large, bright bedrooms, including master suite & it's own updated bath. Both master & hall baths updated w/beautiful, raised height vanities, new lighting, mirrors, fixtures, white tile. Lower level features very spacious family room, 2nd warm, inviting, creekstone fireplace, 1/2 bath for family room/office, laundry, pergo flooring & entry into large 2 1/2 car garage w/additional storage closet. Updates include: remodeled baths, gorgeous granite counter tops in kitchen, french doors, all moldings, wrought iron railings in entry, entry light, exterior painted in 2014, all new windows 2014, roof only 7 years, HVAC only 4 years old, lighting in all bedrooms, baths, water heater 8 years, new sewer line. Don't miss your opportunity to own this beautiful home that oozes Southern Charm in this private, tranquil setting. Call today!

Flyer:      

                501 Hill Ridge Rd, Louisville, KY  40214

                          Kenwood Estates 

 This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Associate Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI- SFR

Cell:  502-643-2255

Email:  Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

 Click here to search          Thinking of Selling?  

ALL available properties FOR SALE:          Click here to find your Homes Value.