3 Generations in 1 Home

I'm seeing it more and more and am actively educating myself on how to best service these homeowners (hence my Senior Real Estate Specialist designation). The scenario often goes like this; aging parents decide they want a smaller space and need less maintenance. The family decides it's best to move in with one of their children to save money plus possibly provide care and assistance to their grandchildren. Now there are 3 generations under one roof and space may be tight if it wasn't planned out ahead of time. (A Pew report did find that more than three-quarters of "boomerangs" — the young adults ages 25 to 34 who move back in with their parents — were satisfied with their living situation- but that's another post for later.)

It's not uncommon for my buyer clients to have an in-law suite or potential space to build a suite be on their wish list because of this exact scenario.  These homeowner's are called 'sandwich generation' and it's becoming a growing trend as the baby boomers age. Luckily as the trend grows, homes to accommodate multigenerational families are growing as well. Builders, contractors and architects are supporting this need and there are even certified aging-in place specialist (CAPS) to help.

If you decide to modify your home to fit the needs and conveniences of your parents, think about their safety and daily conveniences. Such as adding more light in rooms, installing grab bars in bathrooms and near stairways and ensuring floor transitions from room to room are smooth. Motion censored lights, remote controlled fans and window treatments and walk-in showers are desirable to the majority of homeowners and buyers and are beneficial for aging family members! Win-Win!

If you need to make extra space or even move to a more accommodating floor plan, I am your

resource. In the meantime, get some inspiration here >> https://www.thehouseplanshop.com/multi-generational-house-plans/house-plans/130/1.php  (I can' t be the only one that loves to look at floor plans, am I?!)

Lastly, there are many things to consider when living in a multigenerational home and at times can be hard for the 'sandwich generation.' Here is a link for some helpful tips:
https://www.care.com/c/stories/5326/9-tips-for-managing-sandwich-generation-stres/

Looking to invest in real estate?

There are so many different ways you can invest and plan for your future. One proven method is investing in real estate and even that has multiple methods and strategies. Do you want to be a landlord, buy and flip or be a hard money lender- the options are endless and available.

3 bed. 2.5 bath town home in West Chester, PA $235,000.00

Whether you're looking to get your first investment or are a seasoned investor, I have 3 properties that could be great rental investments.

First is 150 Weedon Ct. West Chester, PA 19380
This property is located in Exton Station, a desirable neighborhood that is right near Exton Station shopping, route 100 and many corporate centers. Rental prices in the neighborhood range from $1500 on up!

4 bed 1 bath row home in Cobbs Creek, PA $115,000

You'll want to check out this row home in Cobbs Creek too! 6023 Webster St. Philadelphia has tons of charm and offers a 4th bedroom which is unusual in the neighborhood. A landlord could easily get $1100-$1300 a month in the area. 

2 bed 1.5 bath town home in West Norriton, PA
$189,000

814 Treetop Lane in Norristown is in the popular Regents Park neighborhood. The home is 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms and features a walk out finished basement! 

Rentals go for $1200-$1600 depending on upgrades and if there is a basement and half bathroom.

For more information or questions, please contact me directly at:

Kelly@PhillyLiving.com

215-646-2900

Happy National Simply Your Life Week!

National Simplify Your Life Week, which runs August 1 through 7, is a great time to think about creating a little more serenity in our day-to-day lives. To help with that, I asked Feng Shui practitioner Eils Lotozo of Truly Home to offer some tips on just how to do that. Here’s what she had to say:

   A great way to begin to simplify your life is to deal with any clutter and disorganization that exists in your home. Gretchen Rubin, bestselling author of The Happiness Project and Better Than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives, says one of the things that surprised her most in her research was “the degree to which, for most people, outer order contributes to inner calm.” 

   And if you really want to develop more of that outer order, you need to work on developing new habits. Says Rubin: “Habits are the invisible architecture of everyday life, and a significant element of happiness. If we have habits that work for us, we’re much more likely to be happy, healthy, productive, and creative.”  

   Here are a few easy-to-institute habits that can cut down on stress, and help your days go more smoothly:

• Stop wasting time looking for misplaced keys, phones, and wallets by designating a special spot for them near the door. Use it every time you come home. Your special place can be a pretty tray or basket, a drawer or a shelf—just make sure it’s close to the door you use most frequently, which will make this habit easier to develop.
• Make your bed every day. No excuses. A crisply made bed gets you off on the right foot for the day, shining as a beacon of order and calm. It only takes a few minutes, and in my experience, this good habit can lead to other good things. The sight of that neat bed in an otherwise disorderly environment just might inspire you to put away that basket of laundry, pick up the clothes on the floor, or run the vacuum.
• Leave your shoes at the door when you come home, and ask your family and visitors to do so as well. You’ll cut back on the dirt and bacteria that shoes can track into the house, which means you’ll have a healthier environment and you can clean less.  (But don’t just leave them in a heap by the door. Place a bin, basket, or shelves to keep those shoes corralled.)
• Don’t let mail pile up anywhere in your home, ever. Create systems for dealing with paper.  Have a designated spot for incoming mail with a trashcan, recycling bin, and shredder nearby. Set up some baskets or file folders for each person in the household to review their mail. Sort bills to be paid into a folder. If something needs to be filed, file it right away. The idea is to not touch a piece of paper more than once. Better yet, be proactive in reducing the paper flow. Switch to paperless statements for all of your financial accounts, and take steps to reduce or eliminate junk mail and catalogs. Find out how at:  http://www.ecocycle.org/junkmail
•  Create a meal plan for the week, along with a shopping list of the items you need to execute that plan. You may think you don’t have the time for all that, but winging it at dinnertime has its own consequences: too many take-out meals, extra trips to the store to pick up last minute items, or wasting food you already have in the fridge but don’t have a plan for.  A meal plan can make you feel calm and in control, and will actually save time. 
• Finally, if clutter is a genuine issue in your home, start dealing with it now. There is no way to bring a note of serenity and simplicity into a space packed with way too much stuff. Ask for help if you need it—from an organizing professional, or a supportive, energetic friend. Tackle just one room at a time, or work on clearing just one kitchen counter, one tabletop or one closet.  Remember, the more outer order you create in your home, the more inner calm you will bring to your life. 

With her company Truly Home, Eils Lotozo offers interior redesign and home staging services, Feng Shui consultations, and more, in the greater Philadelphia area and beyond. Truly Home makes it beautiful, comfortable, easy. 

Find out more at TrulyHomeRedesign.com

Or contact Eils:

 (267) 585-2303

eils@trulyhomeredesign.com

Farm Living

Have you been day dreaming about creating your homestead? Living off your land, having your own farm animals and creating amazing memories with your family? This is becoming a popular trend over the years, just search 'homestead' on Pinterest and you'll be overwhelmed with ideas! I have jumped on the bandwagon as well, doing little things here and there on our small property; installing a rain barrel, composting and conserving energy. But there is only so much we can do in a row home in an urban area. One day we'll have the land and knowledge!

If you're ready to stop dreaming and make the move, I have a great property for sale in Montgomery County, PA. Over 3 acres, ideal for your horse(s), dogs and other farm pets, garden area and more! This property is conventionally located if you're not ready to be completely separated from the world as well.  Right off rte 73, you're near shopping, dining, parks and roadways.

One thing I particularly love about the location is being within Worcester Township. For decades, the township has been preserving the land to keep the community beautiful and green. Check out more information here >> https://www.worcestertwp.com


 See more photos and details here>>
2651 Skippack Pike, Lansdale, PA 19446
$514,000 asking price

Never hesitate to reach out directly to me with questions regarding buying, selling and investing throughout Philadelphia region.

Kelly Steyn

Kelly@PhillyLiving.com

215-646-2900

Spring Decor Trends

Last week I co-hosted a fun workshop with Barbara McInnis Hayman with Decorating Den Interior Design. Barbara gave us an overview of the upcoming Spring and Summer design trends, how to make affordable tweaks in design each season and ways to use multiple patterns and textures in the same room. It was both fun and informative!

According to Pantone, the color of the year is "Greenery." So Barbara showed us many ways to incorporate this color into our homes this season. From changing out decor pillows, throws, and centerpieces.
One simple tip she suggested which I try to live by as well, is to decorate with fresh flowers. Display on your coffee table, dining room table and even bathrooms. It's a fresh and colorful decoration for Spring!

She also suggested to accessorize! Ladies, you don't leave the house with out your jewelry, so don't forget to make the final touches in your rooms!
Make it personal and fun to tie everything together. I like to display things have meaning and remind me of a vacation or loved one. Even if they don't always match the room, it brings me happiness to see them when I walk in!

One thing we touched on was using multiple textures in rooms. I love the concept, but often struggle to execute. A key tip is to layer! And those fabric layers can be different textures. Such as your rug, drapes and pillows in different fabrics and colors can bring depth and warmth to a room.  And don't forget furniture can vary too! Mix a vintage piece with your more modern and new furniture. I have started to do this in our bedroom and really like it (can't wait until it's actually completed!).

I hope this gets you in the mood to get your home spruced up for Spring! Happy decorating :)

How soon is too soon?

I often get the question "how soon should I talk with you before buying a home?" Like most things in real estate, the answer is specific to that person or families needs, but there are some general rules of thumb.

First of all, it's honestly never too soon. But it may be too soon to physically tour homes with an agent. It's important to have a real estate professional you know, like and trust when you're in the beginning stages of thinking to buy a home. Having a Realtor by your side to answer questions, offer advice and be your advocate is priceless!

Secondly, one of initial steps is to figure out how much you can and want to spend for your new home. This should be done when you are initially thinking about buying.  Sit down, create a budget and use it! (Make it a fun date night if you have to!) Here are some helpful budget templates to make the process a little more enjoyable:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bob-lotich/5-household-budget-templa_b_5696244.html
After writing out your income and expense, how much do you feel you could spend for a mortgage? Are you comfortable spending $100 or $300 more a month or are you already at your comfort zone? Are you expecting pay raises or is your car almost paid off? Look at the whole picture to really understand your budget.

Thirdly, I recommend speaking with a mortgage lender about 6+ months before the date you'd like to be in your new home. When speaking with a lender, they will provide individual advice and will provide you with the sale price you can afford at the time of your initial conversation. It's basically a starting point to know where you currently stand and make goals to where you want to be. The earlier you figure out your starting point, it will help determine if you need to save more or improve your credit.
Check out this mortgage calculator see how much you may need to save to buy a home you might of seen online ( I know you're looking online already!):
http://www.bankrate.com/calculators/savings/saving-goals-calculator.aspx
Play around on Bankrate.com with their other calculators- they are not 100% accurate, but definitely provide some guidance!

Do you know when you'd like to be in your new home? If you have that date, month or general time frame, count backwards 6 months and that is usually a good time for us to meet and discuss your real estate goals. But I'm here to be your real estate resource even if you aren't ready for a year or two!
Kelly Steyn
484-343-2406
Kelly@PhillyLiving.com
www.KellySteyn.com

Conshohocken, PA Real Estate Update

Did you know, the average days it took a home to sell in Conshohocken was 27 days quicker this February compared to last February? And the average sale price increased by over 3%! If you're looking to move here, what are you waiting for?

Conshohocken has become the place to live (check out it's ranking here www.niche.com), invest and entertain over the last few years. It's convenient to highways, has 2 regional rail stops, nestled along the Schylkill River trail and has a vibrant downtown!

According to studies, living in a walkable neighborhood increased a homes value, desirabilty and not to mention your quality of life!
Have you used Walkscore.com before? It's a fun and easy tool to see what's around such as schools, trains or restaurants and determine how 'walkable' a property is.

Here is a great opportunity for you to invest in , as the equity in the building and neighborhood continues to increase:
300 W Elm St. Unit 2413 Conshohocken, PA 19428

The Grande at Riverview

300 West Elm Street

1 bedroom, 1 bath with Loft and Deeded Parking spot! 

300 W Elm St. #2413

Overlooks the Pool and Courtyard

Open floor plan- great for entertaining!

Sources: http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2015/07/23/clients-value-walkable-neighborhoods
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/what-homebuyers-want-now-walkable-neighborhoods/

Gilbertsville, PA is Hot Hot Hot

Over the last 3 decades, Gilbertsville which is part of New Hanover Township, has spiked in development and population. Over the last 10-15 years, both national and local builders such as; NV/Ryan Homes, Beazer, Gambone Brothers, Sal Lapio and TH Properties have been assisting with the growth by developing new neighborhoods.
Fun Fact:
The name Gilbertsville derived from the large number of Gilbert family, descended from Hans George Gilbert who relocated from Hoffenheim, Germany in 1750. He and his sons Bernhard and Johan George Gilbert are buried in the New Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Churchyard. The village was originally a part of McCall's Manor.

Gilbertsville is within Boyertown School District and located conveniently near Rte 100, 73, 663, and 422. If you love golfing, shopping and quaint bars and restaurants- this may be a great town to call your own.

I have just the home for you too- 112 Marisa Lane- just 3 years old, lovely upgrades throughout and spacious layout!

Golf courses just around the corner too!

 https://www.bellavistagc.com/

http://www.golfgilbertsvillegc.com/

Contact me for more details and a private showing:
Kelly Steyn
484-343-2406
Kelly@PhillyLiving.com

Green Living in 2017

You have probably heard the term "VOCs" and know it's a negative thing. But do you know why and understand how they affect you and the environment?   Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are organic compounds that easily become vapors or gases. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects according to the EPA. They are common in paints, stains, adhesives, and glues, which means that many 'safe' building materials may make indoor air toxic because they’re paired with them.

When you do decide to paint, consider manufacturers using low to or zero-VOC lines, such as Benjamin Moore with its Aura and Natura brands or Ecos and SafeCoat. 

If you change out your flooring, it's important to research the product, but also the adhesives and varnishes that adhere layers of solid pre-engineered boards together. If you're refinishing old floors or using reclaimed board, natural oil is best. 

Just remember, when you purchase products, materials, and systems to remodel a home you already own or are thinking about selling, ask questions! Here is some basic information organized by category:

http://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/green-basics

Household cleaners can be another source of unhealthy chemicals. First of all, most cleaners contain dangerous solvents, acids and other hazardous chemicals that have been proven to cause irritation to noses, eyes, and lungs. Some of these chemicals are proven to cause indoor air pollution, and some are suspected carcinogens-especially with repeated and prolonged use. Secondly, they are bad for the environment once flushed down the drain and into our water systems.
(source: http://ecocycleecobuzz.blogspot.com/2011/03/dirt-on-household-cleaners.html)

It's very simple and affordable to actually make your own cleaning products! I currently make my own disinfectant, hard surface floor cleaner and air freshener! If I can do it, anyone can! 
Here are some recipes to get you started: http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/green-living/natural-cleaning-recipes

Other helpful sites:
https://living-future.org/declare/about/red-list/ cites chemicals to watch out for; called the "Red List"
Useful guides include the nonprofit Environmental Working Group and Tree Hugger.

Ask professionals, do your research and determine what's best for you and your family! 

(Sources: http://realtormag.realtor.org/home-and-design/feature/article/2016/11/understanding-vocs-and-indoor-air-quality?om_rid=AAAmDu&om_mid=_BYZs0sB9W3kUB$&om_ntype=RMODaily)