Displaying posts labeled "Sponsored"

• 

I’m a child of the subtropics. It’s all about sun, sea and sand for me. When I close my eyes and imagine what the ultimate in luxury living by the water looks like I see tall, elegant glass towers rising into the bluest of blue skies with panoramic views over the ever-changing ocean and the bustling city below. Fabulous facilities on site, luxury finishes in a spacious apartment and as the saying goes “Location Location Location”. I thought I would share with you 3 stunning new developments in Florida’s premier city of Miami.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Waldorf Astoria Residences in Downtown Miami is an ultra-luxury development. With its futurist design by Carlos Ott and Sieger Suarez and high-end interiors by BAMO as well as spectacular views over Biscayne Bay, Brickell Avenue, Downtown Miami, Key Biscayne, and South Beach this 100-storey tower is next-level luxury. This magnificent development will feature a five-star hotel, spa & fitness centre, multiple ballrooms and a luxurious restaurant. When am I moving in?

• 

• 

• 

• 

Now this is my idea of discrete luxury. With one of the most distinctive shapes for a condo tower in Miami Beach designed by OMA, The Perigon Condos, featuring 82 luxurious 2 to 4 bedrooms residences through 17 levels, offers stunning, relaxing floor-to-ceiling views from every unit and pristine beaches at your feet. The location is amazing, the grounds and amentities just what you’d expect from this exceptional standard of development. Oh just think sunny days and hot Miami nights!

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Next up the Baccarat Residences Miami, the new residential complex located in Brickell and managed by SH Hotels & Resorts. 3 mixed-use towers of luxurious 1 to 4 bedroom residences designed by Arquitectonica with spectacular interiors by Meyer Davis. Amenities include heated pool, club room, fitness centre, gourmet market, waterfront restaurant and much more. With some of the best views over Miami and with a location close to the cultural centre of Miami, it’s the perfect place to play and stay. This makes the decision even harder. Which one is the condo of my dreams? If I had my way I’d be the diplomat and buy one from each!

(This feature is a collaboration with Million And Up.  Waldorf Astoria Residences, Downtown Miami images by PMG (Property Markets Group) and Greybrook Realty Partners. The Perigon, Miami Beach images by Mast Capital and  Baccarat Residences. Brickell images by Related Group. )

• 

There are several different style of residences and locations I dream about living in. So many that I laugh at the impossibility of it all ever happening. One of those dreams is living south for the winter. You all know how much I detest Canadian (Ottawa in particular) winters. One such dream is staying in Ottawa for the warmer summer months, and a place down south for winter. So I never have to see another snowbank again. I recently learned about some condominium luxury residences located in South Florida and I am absolutely swooning over this possibility. It truly is luxury living like no other, with views that take your breath away, a level of elegance and sophistication that is unmatched. I would like to share two spectacular projects in South Beach. The first is Apogee condo Miami Beach.

• 

• 

As our name suggests we are here to inspire, and Apogee condo Miami was designed not only to impress but to inspire, and if living surrounded by incredible views of the ocean is something that makes you weak at the knees this is really going to knock you off your feet. All of that glass and unobstructed views of the beauty that is Miami Beach.

• 

• 

I mean….a sophisticated, modern interior, for the rainy gloomy days because I would be spending all of my time out on that spacious (11′ wide) terrace staring out at the water in complete bliss. Complete with barbeque and lots of room for dining and lounging! YES PLEASE!
A little bit more info on these luxurious residences: this high-rise development was created in 2008, consists of 67 well-appointed condo residences each with flow-through city and water views, developed by The Related Group and designed by Sieger-Suarez.

• 

The amenities included in this development mean you don’t ever have to leave the property. There is a fitness center, a state of the art spa (*sigh*), an infinity-edge pool, open-air party pavilion (yes, you heard that right), valet and concierge and I could go on and on.
Instead let me show you a second dreamy property.

• 

Miami Beach Continuum towers, located on the southernmost tip of Miami, are a soaring resort-style condominium complex that contain 505 units and of course also have spectacular views. Like Apogee, this property is as beautiful and equipped to make living in South Beach an absolute dream. Let me show you a bit more….

• 

• 

I cannot imagine the experience of cooking in that kitchen above overlooking so much greenery and sky and water. It truly is incredible. Luxurious, modern and beautiful details – I love the built-in shelving along the wall in the living room. These 2 towers have something for everyone – from studio condos to 6 bedroom units. But it is the views from the terraces that will without a doubt win you over.

• 

The Continuum Miami Beach is otherworldly and magical. Imagine having a sightline like this to wake up to every morning! And to make living here even more pleasurable, the amenities are endless. World-class fitness center, eucalyptus steam room, redwood sauna, heated whirlpools, cold plunge, spa services, white sandy beach with cabanas, free-form lagoon swimming pool, tennis club and on and on…

• 

Can you imagine wintering in one of these properties (or living full time)? I sure can. It sure would make winters much more enjoyable and provide peace of mind having so many comforts at your fingertips.

(This feature is a collaboration with Million And Up. Apogee images by The Related Group and Continuum images by Continuum Company – Ian Bruce Eichner)

• 

There are a few classic door types that have been stylish for many years, and are still trendy in 2022. Even though styles come and go, these doors remain popular for homeowners. These classics are worth considering if you’re remodeling your home or just want to update your front entryway.

French Doors

• 

Initially popularized in the 17th century, French doors feature a pair of glass panels that open outward. Since they let in natural light and provide a clear view of the outdoors, French doors are a great way to bring a touch of elegance to any home. In addition to their excellent looks, French doors are also highly functional. 
When opened, they create a wide opening that is perfect for entertaining or moving furniture. Since they extend outward, French doors are ideal for homes with small balconies or patios. French doors can also add a touch of elegance to any home, and you can use them to create both formal and informal spaces. 
They also allow a great deal of natural light to enter a room, making them an ideal choice for sunrooms or other light-filled areas. In addition, French doors can be easily customized by companies like Doors Plus to fit almost any opening, making them a versatile option for new construction and renovations.

Barn Door

• 

Barn doors can add a touch of rustic charm to any space and can be surprisingly practical. Thanks to their horizontal design, barn doors take up less space than traditional swinging doors. This makes them an excellent option for small rooms or tight spaces. 
Additionally, you can install barn doors with simple hardware, and they often come with pre-drilled holes for easy hanging. If you’re looking for a unique door style that’s both stylish and practical, consider giving barn doors a try.

Dutch Door

If you’re looking for a unique door to give your home some extra curb appeal in 2022, you may want to consider the Dutch door. Also known as a half door, this distinctive style features a top and bottom section that can be opened independently. While Dutch doors are often associated with farms and barns, they can also add a touch of charm to any residential entryway.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Dutch doors can also be practical, providing ventilation while keeping pets and small children safely inside. If you’re looking for a door that’s both stylish and functional, a Dutch door may be the perfect choice for your home. 

Sliding Door

This unique door style can add a touch of elegance to any home, and with its clean lines and simple design, it’s perfect for any décor. Whether you’re looking for a new entry door or a way to update your existing doors, the sliding door is a great option. Not only is it stylish, but it’s also practical. The sliding door can be used to separate two rooms or to create an opening in an otherwise solid wall. 
Since it slides open, it doesn’t require clearance for swinging, so the sliding door is an excellent choice whether you have limited space or simply want an unobstructed view. If you’re ready to make a change, the sliding door is the perfect option for your home.

Pocket Door

Pocket doors have been around for centuries and are still a popular choice for many homeowners. There are several reasons why pocket doors are so popular. First, they’re very space-efficient. Pocket doors slide into a pocket in the wall so they don’t take up any space when they’re open. This is an excellent feature if you have a small home or want to make your rooms look more spacious.
Pocket doors can also provide some privacy when you need it. For example, you can close your bedroom door to keep out noise from the rest of the house. Finally, pocket doors are relatively easy to install, so you can do it yourself if you’re handy with tools.

Glass Door

Glass doors have long been associated with high-end homes and businesses, and they can add a sense of sophistication to any space. They also have the practical advantage of letting in natural light, making rooms feel brighter and more welcoming, and are great for energy efficiency. If you’re worried about privacy, plenty of glass door options offer different levels of opacity, from clear to frosted. 
However, there are a few things to remember when considering a glass door for your home. First, glass doors can be costly. You’ll also need to ensure that the door is well-insulated to prevent drafts, and if you live in a noisy area, glass doors can amplify sound. However, if you’re willing to pay more and deal with a bit of extra noise, a glass door is a great way to update your home’s style.

Farmhouse Door

This door style first became popular in the early 20th century, and it has continued to be a popular choice for new construction and remodeling projects. Farmhouse Doors are characterized by their simple, clean lines and lack of ornate details. This makes them an excellent choice for traditional homes and contemporary homes in some cases. 
Additionally, farmhouse doors are often made from sturdy materials like wood or fiberglass, which makes them durable and low-maintenance. The farmhouse door is an excellent option if you’re looking for a classic door type that will add beauty and value to your home.

Metal Door

Metal doors have been around for centuries. They’re durable, low-maintenance, easy to install, and they come in a variety of styles to suit any home. In addition, metal doors offer excellent security. They’re difficult to break into, and they can deter burglars. 
Unlike wood doors, which can swell and warp in sunlight and moisture, metal doors are incredibly durable and low maintenance. While they may not have the same rustic charm as wood doors, metal doors come in various styles and finishes that can complement any home. If you’re looking for a long-lasting door that will stand the test of time, a metal door is a great option. 
While some trends come and go, classic home features are always in style. If you’re considering remodeling your home soon, look at these classic doors that are still trendy. By choosing a timeless design, you can be sure that your investment will remain stylish for years to come.

• 

You can never go wrong choosing to give your home a makeover and transform it into a warm, fuzzy place where you can relax and unwind after a busy day. Whether applying a fresh coat of paint or replacing outdated appliances with new ones, renovating your home can instantly enhance its overall appeal and significantly boost its value. The good thing is that you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on major renovations to update your home.
Even minor improvements like painting your kitchen cabinets or installing modern lighting fixtures can go a long way toward improving your home’s look and feel, fetching top dollar when you decide to sell. Once you’ve found a reliable mover like Osmon Moving and Storage to offer you relocation services, you need to plan how to update it to increase its resale value. Below, we’ll look at some of the cost-friendly ways to boost your home’s value when you decide to sell:

1. Update Fixtures

Old switch plates, curtain rods, outlet covers, doorknobs, and light fixtures can make your home look dated, significantly reducing its value. Upgrading to modern-looking fixtures can give your home a high-end look without breaking the bank. Consider replacing outdated fixtures with shiny metal switch plates, decorative curtain rods, and modern light fixtures. Instead of replacing the fixtures, you may also consider spray-painting to give them an elegant look.
Consider replacing outdated bathroom fixtures with newer versions. For instance, you can add a touch of luxury to your bathroom by installing an elegant looking bathroom vanity, a stylish sink faucet, or a chrome showerhead. These updates are affordable and easy to install, saving you a lot of cash.

2. Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint

Painting is another affordable improvement project that can instantly improve your home’s curb appeal and value. Painting is a DIY project you can easily complete yourself, so you only need to buy a few gallons of paint and other inexpensive tools like painter’s tape, brushes, rollers, and drop cloths. To sell your house faster and for top dollar, you should consider painting neutral colors since they appeal to most buyers.
A new coat of paint can make dirty and scratched surfaces appear clean and updated, whether it’s your home’s front door, bedrooms, or even living room. This adds charm to your home, making it more desirable and valuable once you put it on the market.

3. Install Energy-Efficient Features and Appliances

Home remodeling projects that reduce your monthly utility bills are a smart way to boost your home’s value. Making your home more energy efficient is a valuable investment that can save you tons of money and make your house more marketable once you put it on the market. That’s because energy-efficient upgrades usually appeal to many buyers, especially those looking to lower their monthly expenses.
Some inexpensive ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency and overall value include replacing old appliances with new, energy-efficient models. Installing new modestly priced appliances can also make your home look modern, helping you net a higher sale price. Other affordable energy-efficient upgrades that you can make include installing a smart thermostat, adding insulation, and replacing leaky windows. These upgrades can also improve your home’s overall functionality and comfort, serving as strong selling points when you list your property.

4. Update Your Exterior Door

• 

Your home’s exterior door is the first thing prospective buyers will see when they come for showings. Replacing your dated front door with a rustic wooden or modern glass door can dramatically enhance your home’s exterior appearance. However, if you’re working on a limited budget, upgrading the hardware can also give your doors a fresh look. Replacing doorknobs is a simple project that you can do on your own, so you don’t have to spend on hiring a professional. If the doors are in perfect condition, consider freshening them with a new coat of paint or power washing them.

5. Polish Your Hardwood Floor

Instead of installing new hardwood flooring, refinishing and polishing your flooring can restore it to its original splendor without spending a fortune. Polishing your wood floors can also prolong its life, adding to your home’s overall value. Ensure that you test existing finishes on your flooring to determine the correct polish to use. Choosing the wrong one can damage your expensive hardwood flooring, which could cost hefty amounts to repair or replace. If you’re unsure about the kind of flooring in your home, consider pulling up a corner of the carpet to confirm. If you find that you have wooden flooring, remove the carpet and refinish it to restore its shine and improve its durability.

6. Deep-Clean Your Carpets

Apart from polishing and refinishing your hardwood floors, you should also consider thoroughly cleaning your carpets. Old and stained carpets can be difficult to restore to their original splendor, so it’s best if you replace them. Deep cleaning your carpets is vital since they tend to hide dirt, contaminants, and allergens affecting indoor air quality. Carpets also hold odors, leading to an unpleasant smell in your home.
Regular vacuuming and removing any noticeable stains using the right cleaning products can make your carpets look brand new. You may also consider cleaning with salt and baking soda, vinegar solution, and steam or using an air-neutralizer to get rid of unpleasant odors on your carpets. Doing this can give your house an updated look and make it more appealing to prospective buyers.

7. Improve Window Treatments

• 

The outdated window treatment that you installed or found in your house years back when you moved in doesn’t add to your home’s value. You might want to replace the outdated aluminum or plastic blinds and paper shades with something elegant looking, such as wooden blinds, drapes, or plantation shutters. Ensure you choose neutral color options to appeal to many home buyers, so you can get the most out of your house sale.

Endnote

You don’t have to make major renovations that require hiring contractors or even buying high-end materials to increase your home’s value. With the tips discussed above, you can enhance your home’s overall appearance and boost its value, no matter your level of skills or the size of your home improvement budget. This can help you get the most value out of your home when you decide to sell. Ensure that any changes or new additions best complement your home’s overall décor and aesthetics, and keep up with regular repair and maintenance to help prevent issues down the road once you decide to sell your home.

• 

Selecting the right builder for your home is one of the most important decisions you will ever have to make. For a stress-free and fulfilling building experience, it is vital to know what to ask a potential home builder before you make a hiring decision. To help you out, here are 12 questions to ask a potential home builder.

1. How long have you been in business?

Since you need to find a highly skilled and competent builder, an important question is how long one has been offering their services. A company with a vast experience like Excel Builders that has been handling constructions for more than 25 years is better placed to offer you better services than a company marking their first year in business.
Typically, more years of experience translates to handling more projects and better knowledge about your area, the local building codes, zoning regulations, sewer & drainage lines, and general landscape, among other crucial details.

2. Are you licensed and insured?

A reputable home builder worth your time and investment should be fully licensed and insured. This will save you from problems with the local and state authorities while ensuring you are not at risk in case anything goes wrong during the construction.

3. Do you have warranty packages?

It is good to have the peace of mind that the home builder you hire will stand behind their work. This can only be guaranteed with a warranty package covering the workmanship and structural integrity. Remember to ask how long the warranty lasts, what it covers, and how they will handle issues you raise.

4. Have you built homes of this style?

Since your dream is to have an attractive and livable family home, it is best to opt for a home builder who has experience or specializes in the style you want. The best way to ascertain this is by going through the builder’s portfolio and taking a tour of a home they have recently built for a customer with similar needs.

5. How do you guarantee quality constructions?

A home builder’s promise of quality construction should be backed with an assurance of how they will make this possible. Reputable builders will have a quality assurance checklist that is ascertained through multi-point inspections at different stages of the construction.
Remember, whether your goal is to have the most colorful townhouse or a charming country house, the construction quality is determined by what goes on behind the walls, not aesthetics.

6. What differentiates you from other home builders?

An easy way to determine the builder’s personality and style of work is by inquiring about what makes them unique. Building a custom home comes with challenges, and you need the assurance that the team you’ll be working with has what it takes to manage this process efficiently and deliver quality.

7. What are the defining features of your homes?

• 

It is important to know the features your house will have that few other builders can offer, and this is best done by focusing on the strengths of your builder. Whether it is the fact that they focus on building energy-efficient homes, putting up stronger foundations, or excellent finishes, you need insights on what to expect.

8. How will you determine the cost of building my home?

Requesting a construction cost breakdown is the best way to determine how best your allotted budget suits the project. You will also get to determine factors such as how much the labor charges compare to material costs, what percentage of the budget is set, and how much is an estimate.
This way, you can be confident that your builder will not recklessly run you over your budget. You will also know what can and will be executed once you hire the builder. Pay extra attention to whether they offer services such as landscaping and if it is pre-included in the budget.

9. How often can I expect updates, and will I have a contact person?

Communication is vital during a home-building process as this is the only way to ensure everything is running according to plan. A home builder who values your satisfaction will prioritize providing timely and detailed updates on the construction progress. For smoother two-way communication, you need to have a contact person you can always reach out to whenever you have any inquiries.

10. What is the estimated time for my home’s completion?

While so many factors will determine how long it takes to build your home, it is ideal to know what your timeline will look like. Keep in mind that this time frame might be longer than anticipated as managing constructions is complicated and can severely be impacted by uncontrollable external factors such as extreme weather conditions.

11. How many of your builds finish on time and on budget?

This question goes hand in hand with the estimated timeline for your home’s completion and helps you determine how committed the home builder is to their projects. Getting a sense of how often a builder gets to finish a project on time and on budget will give you the confidence to trust them with your construction. Beware of promises that are too good to be true, as no home builder can guarantee 100% project completion within a short timeframe.

12. Do you have references I can talk to?

Talking to a potential home builder before making up your mind is never enough. For a clear picture of the level of competence to expect, talk to past customers for an in-depth homeowner’s perspective. Beyond the general questions such as whether the homeowner was satisfied with the construction, make inquiries that will prompt detailed answers. These can include:

• What level of assistance was provided when selecting home finishes?
• Did you request any changes or home upgrades during the construction, and how were your requests handled?
• How often did you have access to the construction site during the building process?
• Was the project completed on budget?

Endnote

Deciding to build a custom home comes with the mandate of choosing the right builder, and by knowing the right questions to ask, you can attain the partnership you need for your dream home to come to life.