Archives for March 2013

Killer Kitchen Trends for 2013

Over the years, the kitchen has become a social space where friends and families spend time together on a regular basis. To make sure your kitchen is a pleasant space to spend time in, you should try to make it feel inviting. The kitchen should be functional but without ignoring style. Here are some trends to watch for this year in case you’re planning a kitchen remodel.

Glass kitchen backsplash.

A glass backsplash gives your kitchen luminosity and adds a plus of style

Glass backsplashes have become increasingly popular over the last few years and they are still an important trend in kitchen décor. Glass is easy to clean and it also has a simple and stylish look. It scratches easily but there measures that can help you protect against that.

 

LED lighting.

LED lighting is a modern, energy-efficient and versatile alternative

Led lighting is very popular as well and not just in the case of the kitchen. It is used in living rooms, bedrooms, even outdoors. LED lighting is not just a modern and new option but it’s also an energy-efficient alternative that should be taken into consideration during a renovation or remodel.

High gloss look.

High gloss cabinets and kitchen islands make the room feel sophisticated

The high gloss finish suits simple and airy decors with a restraint color palette

This year the popularity of high gloss surfaces maintains its popularity in the kitchen. So if you want to give your kitchen a new look, think of getting new cabinets with a high gloss finish. If you don’t want to buy new furniture, then you can just reface the cabinets. Make them look sleek and chic by giving them a simple yet glamorous look.

Touch-activated faucets.

Touch-activated faucets are the best option at this point for several reasons

Modern and contemporary kitchens usually focus on functionality and efficiency. It’s why touch-activated faucets have become so popular lately. This year they remain in vogue so don’t hesitate to replace your old faucets with the new generation. They are very efficient and help you save water, not to mention that they’re very practical and hygienic.

Wood and solid countertops.

A wooden countertop adds warmth and texture to the decor

Stone and concrete countertops are a popular trend in modern kitchens

Solid countertops are both functional and good-looking, especially in minimalist decors

The countertops are a very important part in any kitchen’s décor. As you may have noticed, now solid countertops are popular. They give the kitchen a simple and modern look and they’re also quite functional. You can opt for wooden countertops or, if you want something a little more glamorous, for quartz. Concrete countertops are also popular.

Hardwood floors.

Hardwood flooring is very elegant and adds a unique charm to the room

Hardwood flooring is an elegant and stylish option and they remain a popular trend for 2013. They might not be great in terms of maintenance and they might also be difficult to install, but they make the kitchen feel warm, elegant and inviting. You can’t achieve the same result with other materials.

Deep bowl sinks.

Deep bowl sinks are more suitable for modern use as they can accommodate all sorts of pots and pans

A stylish sink can definitely change the look of your kitchen. For 2013, the experts recommend deep bowl sinks. They are very functional and practical because they give you more freedom of movement. They also have a dramatic visual effect on the whole décor. So consider this style for your remodel.

Incorporating kitchen appliances.

For a modern and space-efficient décor opt for built-in appliances

Since most kitchens are now focusing on space-efficient designs and functional layouts, built-in appliances are a must-have. This year makes no difference. This year’s trend is about incorporating commercial-style stoves and other appliances in the kitchen. Consider opting for stainless steel appliances and make sure you find a good spot for them.

Mixing cabinet colors.

Mix colors and finishes for a more dynamic appearance

There was a time when all the kitchen cabinets and all the other furniture in the room had to have the same finish and the same color. The situation is different now. This year you should try mixing cabinet colors. Create dynamic and vibrant décor and have fun combining your favorite shades.

Scandinavian simplicity.

Simple and minimalist kitchen décor seem more airy and clean

Minimalist and simple decors are popular for quite some time and they’re still a strong trend. So if you’re planning on giving your kitchen a makeover this year then you should try to use clean lines and to opt for the Scandinavian simplicity everyone seems to admire. The décor should be simple, enat and nicely organized.

Brass faucets.

Brass faucets are more demanding in terms of maintenance but their charm is unique

Another interesting trend this year has to do with brass faucets. They have been the subject of an increase in popularity and that’s because of their versatility and elegance. You can accessorize your kitchen stylish brass faucets regardless of the type of décor or colors used.

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source: Homeedite.com

Fewer Americans in ‘Underwater’ Situation

underwater-homeWith home values falling dramatically from 2006 boom prices, many homeowners have found themselves in what is called a ‘negative equity’ or ‘underwater’ situation. This means the value of their home is currently less than the mortgage amount on that home.

Many of these homeowners have been ‘locked’ into their houses because they were unable to sell it without bringing cash to the closing table. The good news is this situation is improving as prices begin to rise.

We are not saying that this challenge is over. We just have to look at what the experts are saying to realize we still have a long way to go.

Zillow Chief Economist Dr. Stan Humphries recently stated:

“Negative equity is still very high, and millions of homeowners have a very long way to go to get back above water, even with current robust levels of home value appreciation in most areas. As a result, negative equity will remain a major factor in the market for the foreseeable future.”

Anand Nallathambi, CEO of CoreLogic, in their latest Negative Equity Report:

“With nearly one quarter of borrowers still underwater we have a long way to go.”

However, the situation is improving. The recent Zillow Negative Equity Report revealed:

  • Negative equity continued to fall in the fourth quarter of 2012, dropping to 27.5 percent of all homeowners with a mortgage, compared with 31.1 percent one year ago.
  • Almost 2 million American homeowners were freed from negative equity over the course of the year.
  • Approximately 13.8 million homeowners with a mortgage were in negative equity, or “underwater,” at the end of the fourth quarter, owing more on their mortgages than their homes are worth. That was down from 15.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2011.

What does the future hold?

Anand Nallathambi, president and CEO of CoreLogic, sees the situation improving:

“As we look ahead into 2013, we expect to continue to see more borrowers’ escape the negative equity trap and that will be a strong positive for the housing market specifically and the broader economy generally.”

Zillow Chief Economist Dr. Stan Humphries agrees:

“As home values continue to rise and more homeowners are pulled out of negative equity in 2013, the positive effects on the housing market will be numerous. Freed from negative equity, homeowners will have more flexibility, and some will likely choose to list their home for sale, helping to ease inventory constraints and moderating sometimes dramatic, demand-driven price increases in some markets.”

Negative equity is still a challenge to a full housing recovery in this country. However, things will continue to improve as prices appreciate.

source: KCM