There are few places that can surpass the charm of living in this area, but as much as you love your home and neighborhood, you may reach a point when your home no longer suits your family’s needs. For many, the first thought may be to buy a larger or more updated home. Yet when you consider the prospect of moving and leaving your beloved neighborhood behind, venturing into the unknown isn’t something you welcome.

That’s why remodeling has become a top choice for many homeowners just like you. Today, we’ll explain why a call to your lender is a wise first move as you consider your home remodeling options.

Your Lender Can Help Maximize Your Home Remodeling Budget

Many homeowners mistakenly believe that doing a major remodeling project is not financially viable. Yet there are many neighborhoods in the Central St. Louis corridor that not only buck the average-rate-of-return statistics that many consider when remodeling, but that also have a history of experiencing substantial increases in property value after the remodel is complete. In one case, an addition resulted in the home doubling its value, even after the cost of the addition and interior remodeling was factored in. This is important because the value of your home post-remodel can be a key factor in determining the financing options that are available to you.

How can you know what to expect for your home? Your lender can help provide insight.

Trisha McConkey

• Talk with your lender sooner rather than later. Trisha notes that the earlier a homeowner involves the lender in the process, the less stressful it will be for all parties involved. The initial call can take as little as 30 minutes, and allows everyone to understand the ultimate goal and assemble a plan for the best funding options available for you and your home. During your initial call, you’ll learn that you may not be limited to the current equity in your home when it comes to financing a home remodeling project. There are construction loan options that allow you to expand your budget beyond current equity based on the anticipated, increased value of the home after remodeling is complete.
• Get pre-approved. Just as with buying a new home, Trisha suggests getting pre-approval for your remodeling project. This will help guide the way in terms of the budget, the amount of funding you have available, and what your monthly payment will be once the loan is secured. Your lender will help you through the pre-approval process so that you can begin to identify how your project will take shape.
• Call RIGGS. Once you’ve been pre-approved, Trisha recommends that you contact RIGGS to begin preparing the scope of the project based on the available budget. Because RIGGS is a design-build remodeling firm, we have the ability to design the project and make all selections according to the budget. This process differs from traditional construction methods in which an architect draws plans and then goes out to bid for the construction – which can lead to budget and timeline overages. The RIGGS way keeps projects within budget and on time.
• Complete the project in one step. Many homeowners are tempted to piece together a major renovation project, but according to Trisha, this isn’t the wisest route to go. First of all, it ends up being more expensive because trades are coming out multiple times to do the work. Doing it as one large project creates less disruption for your family, and allows your lender and contractor to maximize the budget. A design-build remodeling company like RIGGS manages all aspects of your project from start to finish, creating the value and livability of your dream home.

Our goal at RIGGS is to ensure that you have the information and resources available to make wise decisions for your home. Working closely with lenders like Trisha helps you avoid getting into a project you cannot afford, or limit yourself in your scope of work only to realize later that you had access to more financing than you originally thought. Getting a lender involved as soon as you start to dream about your renovation can make all the difference in creating the home of your dreams, and increasing the value of your home.

Thank you, Trisha, for sharing this great advice with us. If you have any questions about remodeling your home and what options may be available for you, please contact RIGGS at 314-821-7646.

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Bring on the Blue

A huge trend for kitchen color schemes and design right now is navy blue cabinets and white marble-esque countertops. For those who are looking for something different, daring and bold, this look is such an impressive addition to a home. Once bland kitchens receive a transformation that stops the show and presents a unique look.

Expanding Family, Expanding Home

Another need that we are seeing with our clients, is the need to expand on a home because families are growing! Perhaps a family is blending two households, creating the need for additional space. Or maybe, parents are becoming grandparents, and suddenly the empty nest starts to shift back to a full nest. Holidays, events, birthday parties and more start to become cramped over time as the family grows, and bigger spaces are necessary to accommodate for these additional members. We love that we have the opportunity to facilitate families being together in their own homes, creating a comfortable space for them to make memories many years into the future.

Focus on Wants, Not Needs

Many of our clients in Kirkwood and Webster Groves are embarking on renovation projects because they are now at a place in their lives where this is possible. They’re asking for what they want, not what they need. This means that they’re shifting away from remodeling their bathroom, for example, because things are broken. They are remodeling because they have a vision for the bathroom they want and are focused on making that happen. They have the opportunity to create the home of their dreams with RIGGS, and they are acting on it.

Have any of these exciting trends popped up on your Pinterest boards? What ideas have you seen that spark your attention that you’d like to see us feature? We look forward to sharing ideas and getting inspired together.

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That puts Kirkwood and Webster Groves in a unique position when it comes to our homes and real estate. There are few other places that offer the opportunities to significantly increase the value of a home with incredible renovations. Let’s explore a couple scenarios:

The Fixer Upper

It used to be that buyers were fixated on finding a “move-in ready” home. But in Kirkwood and Webster, there’s a trend towards buyers gravitating to properties that were once overlooked. Perhaps the home is terribly outdated or needs repairs. There are many things that we at RIGGS find that previous homeowners overlook. These can include foundation cracks, improper wiring, or even simple things like clogged drains and no sump pump in the basement. In our nearly 60 years of remodeling homes in Kirkwood and Webster, we’ve seen a lot of neglect – not necessarily because people were lazy, but because they just didn’t know what they were supposed to do. We find ourselves teaching many homeowners about proper care and maintenance. But this doesn’t mean these homes should scare people away! In many cases, repairs and updating can take place that will bring the home into the current century. The buyer can invest in the purchase price of the home, plus fund the repairs for less than it would cost to buy that move-in-ready abode down the street.

The Bungalow

Many parts of Kirkwood and Webster are full of cute little bungalows built back in the 50s and 60s. They are typically limited in space, most of them 2 bedrooms and a bathroom, and they worked for families back then. Not so much today. Families want more space. They want room to function and feel comfortable. Guess what? There are many ways to add to those little bungalows, so don’t walk away from them! At RIGGS, we’ve added second stories to many of these homes, in effect, doubling the space. There are also homes that we’ve doubled in size by expanding the footprint of the home! Moral of the story is not to limit yourself. Explore the bungalows and expand them into what you want and need them to be. You’ll be getting the neighborhood you want, for a price that may be more within reach than you thought.

Your Existing Home

You love your neighborhood, but the house just isn’t quite working for you anymore. Sound familiar? You’re probably at a different stage of your life than when you bought the house. And let’s face it, trends, styles and technologies have changed, and you’re ready for them. Remodeling your home in Kirkwood and Webster Groves not only allows you the opportunity to stay where you love, it’s also a wise investment. We’ve found the comfort and emotional payback to be priceless, but the monetary return is there too. You can get the home you want, right where you are, with your neighbors and all the things you love.

The real estate market in Kirkwood and Webster Groves is unique. With the right guidance, remodeling return on investment can be quite high, increasing your property values substantially and delivering a dream home.

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Firstly, it looks like the hot colors this year will be pretty muted and inspired by nature. Very cool tones that will bring tranquility and calm into your space, including shades of blue, green, gray, light pinks, tan and purple. These colors are soothing and restorative, meaning your home will be your sanctuary and place to take a moment from your stressful, busy life to relax. Another nice feature of these colors are the fact that they are super versatile and perfect for both interior and exterior projects, and matches with so many colors and design styles, from traditional, modern, to coastal and global.

Earthy tones are also hot if you’re not a fan of the cool tones, from olive-browns to rich greens. And a trend that we don’t see going anywhere, anytime soon, is gray. Pure gray, purple gray, blue gray, green gray, they’re all popular and they’re all on the list for 2018.

You can use these shades to create a mindful space, perfect for awareness and providing a place that balances our busy life activities, reduce stress and remind us of the moments of joy in our lives. Yes, that might sound a bit dramatic when we’re just talking about a color, but these shades have the power to create calm. At least it does for us!

Another color trend that will be hot this year is accents. Whether it be a pop of color in your home decor or painting a wall a vibrant color, accents are a great way to add interest and create a maximum impact. Not ready to pull the plug and make a major color change inside your house? Try painting the front door! It adds great curb appeal and will freshen the look of the whole house in just a matter of minutes.

Speaking of painting your door, a trend making a huge statement for the interior of your home is painting your doors black! If you’re someone with kids, this might seem extra appealing to you, say good bye to finger prints and drawings!

When it comes to home decor, jewel toned furniture looks to be popular this year, from chairs to pillows and candles, decor is a great way to add a pop of color and interest in a room without the commitment of painting a wall a vibrant color.

Natural wood and drift wood are hitting the market hard in 2018, from cabinets to tables and dressers, you’ll see the light natural wood sweeping the nation, especially in a contemporary setting.

So there you have it, a quick look at some of the color trends for 2018 that we’ve been noticing and loving. Do you plan on integrating any of these trends into your home? If so, what trends are you loving and what trends do you hope fizzle out quickly? Be sure to check out our 2018 Home Trends Pinterest board for more inspiration!

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We were thrilled to find out that Pantone, a world-renowned authority on color and provider of color systems, has created a new Pantone color in honor of Prince. Prince’s estate and the Pantone Color Institute unveiled a new purple shade last week in honor of the late SUPERSTAR singer called Love Symbol #2. This shade was inspired by Prince’s custom Yamaha purple piano and his love for the brilliant color.

The color purple and Prince go hand in hand, throughout his career purple was sprinkled throughout his life, from his clothing, instruments, music video and songs (hello, Purple Rain).

To celebrate Pantone’s newest shade and honor Prince, we have changed our RIGGS logo to Love Symbol #2 for the month! We hope you love it as much as we do.

We’ll leave you with this little gem to brighten your day:

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Have you been thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Perhaps you’re ready to get rid of the old pink tile, outdated cabinetry or dingy tub and shower, but you’re not quite sure where to start, or know what options are out there today. The RIGGS team is here to help! We’ve compiled a list of the top trends we’re seeing in St. Louis homes this year so that you know what’s hot, and what you may want to keep on your radar as you plan your bathroom remodeling project.

Freestanding Tubs

The tub as you know it is a place to bathe, but this year we’re seeing the bathtub take center stage as a beautiful piece of furniture. You’re probably used to seeing the tub placed in a corner or built into an alcove, but today, tubs are standing alone with no platform or steps surrounding it. Many beautiful designs and shapes are available, depending on your taste and design style. Whether you choose a vintage claw-foot or modern soaking tub, this freestanding item will provide any master bathroom an elegant, quiet and serene atmosphere.

Oversized Showers

If a freestanding tub isn’t your cup of tea, or if you have a lot of space to work with, oversized showers with multiple jets, shower heads, and steam options remain very popular in 2017. In fact, many homeowners have chosen to remove their tubs altogether to allow for large showers in their bathrooms! That’s because they can provide a spa-like experience for your everyday use. These types of showers can be designed with an endless variety of beautiful tile and glasswork to create the look and feel you’re after.

Floating Vanities

If you’re looking to make your freestanding tub or oversized shower the focal point of your space, you may want to consider the floating vanity. Minimalistic in design, these vanities provide a more modern and open feel in your bathroom. In many cases, you can expect for the design to offer drawers over doors to address your storage needs. Whether you prefer traditional or modern styling, the design of the floating vanity exudes uniqueness, and preserves space in your bathroom.

Smart Storage

Speaking of space, let’s talk about smart storage. Most bathrooms include some form of cabinetry for storage, and the good news is that cabinet manufacturers offer interior options to help you keep all your essentials organized. Smart storage cabinetry includes pull-outs, roll-outs and other special features that pack maximum utility into minimum space.

Round Mirrors

Mirrors are getting a makeover this year, replacing its traditional square and rectangular shapes with round, curved edges. This represents a departure from what we’re used to seeing in bathrooms and adds a dynamic focal point to the space. Round mirrors can create a unique and simple element that’s understated with a design that has the potential to stand the test of time.

We hope these trends for 2017 have inspired some ideas for your own home! Incorporating fresh designs into your bathroom will not only add value to your home, but will also allow you to give it your personal touch, and enjoy the time you spend there.

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It’s often been said that the outside of your house is the first impression for visitors and passersby. What is your home’s exterior telling them? Are there dangers lurking that are signs of structural damage? Is there excess debris that’s not only unsightly, but that also could be causing improper water run-off or gutter clogs? Regardless, it’s wise to take a look around at the exterior components of your house to prevent costly repairs in the future. Here are some ideas to help you get the process started in the most common problem-areas:

The Roof

We’re not necessarily advocating that you grab a ladder and climb up on the roof, but the great news is that technology can assist in the process, allowing you to assess the area. For example, binoculars or a digital camera can come in handy when it comes to inspecting your roof. Both of these items will allow users to zoom in to view the details of the home. Plus, if you take digital photos each Spring, you can compare photos and see how your roof is aging, or identify problems that you may not have otherwise noticed.

Gutters

Chances are, debris has accumulated in your gutters over time. Your gutters may contain leaves, or even grime or pollutants from the snow or rain. Clogged gutters can cause major problems, including roof damage and water leaks.

Attics

If you suspect any roof damage, or are concerned that clogged gutters may have caused water to seep into your home (or if you’re just curious about what’s happening up there), pop your head up into your attic space. If you see any water stains which would look like black streaks on the ceiling of your attic, you may have a water leak. Black streaks typically unveil the path water has taken to get under your roof and inside your home.

Siding

Regardless of what material your siding is made of, spring is a great time to walk around the house and expect all sides. This will not only help you identify any damage, but will also uncover which side of your home is most impacted by sun, wind, rain, and other weather conditions that winter has brought your way. Check to ensure that your siding, fascia and trim are secure and in good condition. If you have wood siding, be sure the paint or stain is in good condition to prevent water damage. Or, it may be time to do some power washing, especially if you have vinyl siding.

Other Exterior Components to Consider

Your windows and doors may also need some attention now that winter has finally passed. Check for leaks and broken seals, and determine if there’s any air flowing into the home, which may signal the need for repair or replacement, or just a simple caulk job. If your windows and doors are made of wood, inspect all surfaces and perform any touch-up or re-painting necessary. Finally, decks, porches, stairs and railings will call for different upgrades depending on the material.

It may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! To help assist with your spring exterior inspection, develop an exterior maintenance checklist based on the points above to guide you through repairs to prevent water damage, reduce the loss of heated/cooled air and secure valuable belongings. And don’t forget, you don’t have to do this alone! If you suspect or encounter any damage, enlist the help of a professional. By hiring contractors to correct damage, you’ll keep your property well-maintained. Homeowners who act promptly to correct problems with home systems extend the lifespan of residential property. We’re looking forward to helping you revitalize your home. Give us a call today!

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