Creating an island paradise: Tips for adding an island in your kitchen renovation

(BPT) - Custom cabinetry, granite countertops, reclaimed wood flooring and accents, and top-of-the-line, high-tech appliances - what more do you need to make your kitchen renovation perfect? How about adding an island? Designers and builders across the country are pointing to the addition of an island as the must-have upgrade for kitchen renovations this year.



Homeowners are embracing the island, and what's not to love about it? Adding an island can dramatically alter a kitchen's appearance, provide additional storage space and work area, and create a fresh focal point for family meals. What's more, common challenges that have historically held homeowners back from adding islands - such as the difficulty and high costs associated with adding plumbing drainage in the center of the room - are easier to solve than ever.



Plumbing problem solved



While you could add an island without plumbing, having a sink in an island can improve the workflow in a kitchen and open up counter space elsewhere. Plumbing an island can be problematic, however, if your home is built on a slab or a crawl space. The cost of cutting through concrete and adding piping can be prohibitive.



Above-floor plumbing can solve the problem. Manufacturers make a variety of pumping systems that can eliminate the need to cut concrete and reduce the cost of installing plumbing in a new island.



"Cutting through concrete to install plumbing can easily account for 50 percent of a renovation budget," says Chris Peterson of Saniflo. "Homeowners may decide to abandon the idea of an island altogether when they face that kind of cost. Above-floor plumbing allows them to add an island, hide a single drain pipe in a decorative column, and achieve the kitchen of their dreams at a fraction of the cost of traditional plumbing options."



Top island trends



Islands are increasingly becoming the focal point of kitchen renovations, serving both practical purposes and as design statements.



More homeowners are replacing traditional dining tables and breakfast nooks with spacious islands that feature seating. "Islands are replacing tables," said Audrey Macdonald of Creative Interiors By Audrey in Mississauga, Ontario, in the National Kitchen & Bath Association's 2015 Kitchen & Bath Style Report.



In addition to seating, homeowners are incorporating restaurant-quality fittings into islands, adding charging stations for the family's personal digital devices. They're also choosing architectural and design touches such as decorative legs, and countertops and cabinetry that contrast with those around the perimeter of the kitchen.



Kitchen renovations continue to be among the most popular home improvement projects and can offer homeowners a high return on their investments. A major kitchen remodel costing about $56,000 can recoup nearly 68 percent of its cost when you sell your home, while a minor remodel in the range of $19,000 can yield a 79 percent ROI upon resale, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report.

Six simple steps to financial success

1. If your employer offers a 401(k) plan, use it. For a variety of reasons, it is often going to be your most attractive investment opportunity. Most employers will match a portion of your contributions, making your effective returns higher. If you contribute $1,000 to your plan, for example, and your employer matches that at 50 cents on the dollar, your contribution is actually worth $1,500. A 401(k) also offers tax advantages on contributions and investment gains. Finally, it puts your contributions on autopilot via systematic payroll deductions. That makes it less likely you'll skip contributions, and also lets you take advantage of the powerful benefits of dollar-cost averaging. (Dollar cost averaging does not ensure a profit, nor does it protect against losses in a declining market. Because dollar cost averaging involves continuous investing, investors should consider their long-term ability to continue to make purchases through periods of low price levels.)



Simply put, your regular, fixed-dollar contributions buy more shares when prices are low, and fewer when they're high.



2. Understand your investment horizon. Many people underestimate how long their retirement savings will need to last, which can lead to a host of mistakes. Some invest too conservatively, making it hard for their portfolios to keep pace with inflation. Others draw down their assets too quickly in retirement, boosting the odds that they'll run out of money in old age. The average 65-year-old in good health can expect to live about 20 more years. Your investment strategy should reflect the possibility that you will not only meet, but perhaps exceed, the life expectancy averages.



3. Don't underestimate the corrosive effects of inflation - even at low levels. At a rate of just 2 percent, inflation cuts the buying power of a dollar by a third in about 20 years. At 3 percent, it does the job in 14 years. Make sure your portfolio includes some assets, like stocks, that historically have outperformed inflation over long periods of time.



4. Diversify your investment portfolio, but understand that you will need to do more to mitigate longevity risk. Diversification is the simplest and most effective approach to managing investment risk, but is ineffective at managing many other threats to your financial security. Longevity risk, for example - the risk of outliving your savings - is best managed by pooling your risk with other investors. One way to do that is with an annuity contract issued by an insurance company. Certain annuity contracts work like old-fashioned pension plans, paying a fixed income for life. (Guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.) Some include escalation clauses that increase your payout over time to keep pace with inflation. Knowing that you have provided for your basic living expenses with an annuity can provide the reassurance you need to take a long-term perspective on stocks and other growth-oriented investments - the ones your portfolio needs to keep pace with inflation.



5. When investing in stocks, don't confuse where a company is headquartered with where it earns its money. Many people are looking to capitalize on investments in the fast-growing emerging economies of Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe. Often, though, emerging-market companies are not fueled by growth in their own economies. Many are mining or other natural resources firms whose results are driven by global commodity prices. Rather than investing directly in emerging markets, a better alternative for many people is to invest in U.S. companies that do business globally. Many of these companies have brands that are household names in emerging markets, and some even earn more overseas than they do in the U.S. In fact, a large share of the profits of the companies in the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index is generated outside the U.S. Bottom line, you already enjoy substantial global diversification with U.S. stocks.



6. Don't be afraid to ask for help. The ever-expanding array of alternative investments can seem overwhelmingly complex, and may require frequent and ongoing attention. Rather than trying to do it yourself, consider working with a financial professional. Getting their advice on matters critical to your financial well-being will usually make good fiscal sense.



Editor's Note:

Insurance products issued or offered by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. Not all products are available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, 800-847-4836, a FINRA and SIPC member and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Thrivent Financial representatives are registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. They are also licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.



Deposit and lending services are offered by Thrivent Federal Credit Union, a member-owned not-for-profit financial cooperative that is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration and doing business in accordance with the Federal Fair Lending Laws. Insurance, securities, investment advisory and trust and investment management accounts and services offered by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans or its affiliates are not deposits or obligations of Thrivent Federal Credit Union, are not guaranteed by Thrivent Federal Credit Union or any bank, are not insured by the NCUA, FDIC or any other federal government agency, and involve investment risk, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.

For additional important disclosure information, please visit Thrivent.com/disclosures.

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Firearm safety: Tips that can prevent injury and save lives

Even the most proficient sportsmen and hunting enthusiasts may need a refresher course on how to safely store their firearms. The National Rifle Association (NRA) advocates that guns should be stored so they are not accessible to unauthorized persons. Many safe storage devices for guns are available: safes, lock boxes, trigger and cable locks, and secure gun cabinets.



The NRA supports three additional tips on safe gun handling:



* Keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.



Remove the ammunition source, open the action, visually and physically inspect the chamber and magazine area, which should be clear of ammunition, and leave the action open.



* Keep a gun pointed in a safe direction.



This is a primary rule of gun safety. A safe direction means the gun is pointed in a way that if it is discharged, it will not cause any injury or damage.



* Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot your firearm.



When holding a gun, rest your trigger finger outside the trigger guard, alongside the gun. Until you are ready to shoot, do not touch the trigger.



Today, gun owners can make safety even more rewarding. Stack-On Products Company, a leading manufacturer of security cabinets, safes and tool storage systems, is sponsoring "Keep 'Em Safe - Locked and Unloaded," a pledge to encourage firearms owners to safely store their guns. By taking the pledge, firearms owners will benefit the Shoot for a Cure charity, which raises funds for leukemia and multiple sclerosis research through clay sport shooting fund-raisers. Gun owners can visit Stack-On's online pledge page, and when they complete the pledge form, Stack-On will make a monetary donation on behalf of their household - up to $20,000 total. Hunting celebrities Steve West of Steve's Outdoor Adventures, Willie Robertson of Duck Commander, and Jason Aldean and Tombo Martin of Buck Commander have endorsed the campaign to help spread awareness of safe firearm storage.



For more information on the safe gun storage pledge program, visit www.stack-on.com or call (800) 323-9601.



If you're unsure how to handle, use and store your guns safely, why not take a class? A number of organizations, including the NRA (www.nrainstructors.org) and many local police departments, offer free courses on safe gun handling.

A facelift for your kitchen: Refacing makes old cabinets instantly new

(BPT) - In this instant-gratification era, instant makeovers - from week-long juice diets to weekend home renovations - are a top trend. And according to Yahoo! Homes, so are instant kitchen updates achieved by refacing cabinets.



It's no wonder. Women spend a third of their household activity time in the kitchen, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which means there is plenty of time to daydream about a new kitchen while making and sharing meals. With so much time spent in the kitchen though, who has the luxury of going kitchen-less for weeks on end as they wait through an entire gut and remodel?



The Home Depot surveyed customers who had recently renovated their kitchens and found that almost all customers were motivated by the desire for a new, more modern aesthetic. Several remodeling options deliver a new look in no time, by simply updating the existing cabinets. Current kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts can be refinished through a sanding process or the wood can be renewed through a restorative process that brings out the original brilliance and luster.



Refacing is a more bold option, if you are happy with the layout of your current kitchen but are tired of a dated look with worn cabinets, doors and drawers. Doors, hardware and shelves are all replaced and the cabinet shells are completely refinished through the refacing process to create an entirely new look.



"Refacing kitchen cabinets gives a homeowner the opportunity to add organizational enhancements and revamp additional surfaces, such as counters and backsplashes, for a space that is more contemporary and personalized to match a homeowner's unique kitchen habits," explains Douglas Spiron of Home Depot Interiors.



Mapping a dream kitchen



Start your kitchen cabinet refacing project by creating a wish list of material attributes. For example, if your household includes children and pets, consider Rigid Thermofoil doors to safeguard against denting and for an easy-to-clean surface. To ensure that your space will remain visually cohesive in years to come, it is important to take into account your future plans for new appliances, fixtures, paint colors, counters and backsplashes.



Taming cabinet clutter



To get the most out of the refacing process, consider optimizing your kitchen space. Handy zones for the most frequently used utensils should be established. Items should be grouped together based on purpose and in close proximity to stationary items. Add order to every area with drawer dividers, roll-out shelves and customized organizational elements.



Expressing your style



Once you have identified areas for improvement, it is time to turn your dreams into design plans. A new vision for this hardworking room should take into account both your home's style and your personal style. The adjacent room's color palette, the amount of natural light in the space and what is seen first when entering the kitchen are important factors, in addition to stylistic preferences. This is the time to gather inspiration from favorite bloggers, friends and current trends.



Sarah Fishburne, director of trend and design for The Home Depot, shares the most popular cabinet trend right now. "Recessed doors continue to dominate the kitchen market, because the design is universal and fits in any home style - from Classic or Cottage to Arts and Craft and Modern homes. Homeowners feel more comfortable installing a universal style that will have longevity." The National Kitchen and Bath Association also points out that darker wood finishes have grown more popular over the past two years.



To begin the kitchen transformation process, visit www.homedepot.com; get inspired by the possibilities at The Apron blog.

Taking a look at key food issues

This fall, U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance wants to help families make informed decisions when it comes to those nutritious meals and learn how food gets from the farm to kids' plates. More and more, people have questions about food production, food safety and health. These are always top of mind for any of us, but they take on even more importance when you're providing meals for children and your family.



Three key food issues have been getting increasing attention lately and it's important to know what these really mean when it comes to choosing and preparing your food:



Are GM foods a healthy option?



Food from genetically-modified (GM) seeds have been commercially available and have been proven safe for human and animal consumption. GM seeds undergo testing for safety, health and nutritional value. This regulation is overseen by The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Research shows that the current commercial crops from GM seeds have the same nutritional properties as non-GM seed crops and are not harmful for humans and animals to consume.



Farmers have been genetically altering plants and seeds through selective breeding to improve characteristics such as hardiness, yield, taste and nutrition for thousands of years. Today's GM seeds are part of this evolution. Their development is sped up and more precise by inserting the genes from one plant into another in a laboratory setting.-These crops can be grown using GM seeds: sweet corn, field corn, soybeans, cotton, canola, sugar beets, papaya, alfalfa and squash.



What is the difference between organic and non-organic, and is it really important to me?



The main difference between organically and non-organically grown foods is the production method - those who raise organically grown food must follow a strict set of guidelines outlined by the USDA. The USDA organic label indicates that the food or other agricultural product has been produced through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. Like many other value-added products, organic food can be more expensive because, in some cases, it costs more to produce. A common misconception is that the increased cost of organic food relates directly to its superior nutritional value, which is unproven.



Another common misconception about organic food production involves pesticide and fertilizer use. Organic farmers can choose from organic-certified pesticides and fungicides, which are outlined by the USDA Certified Organic program. They can also use organic matter (livestock manure) for fertilizer.



Are antibiotics being used to treat farm animals harmful to me and my family in our food?



Antibiotics are used to ensure animal safety, food safety and the safety of humans and our health. A common misconception is that antibiotics used on animals will be present in the meat you buy at the store. All animals treated with antibiotics go through a withdrawal period and must meet standards for antibiotic residue before the meat enters the food supply, ensuring that any animals treated with antibiotics are safe to enter the food supply.



Another common concern is that antibiotic use in animals has contributed to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in humans. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a concern for both animal and human health and antibiotics are crucial to all of us. To date, there has been no proven link to antibiotic treatment failure in humans due to antibiotic use in animals raised for consumption.



"Providing a variety of food choices is very important to America's farmers and ranchers, but ensuring that consumers have the right information to make the right food choices for them is just as important," says Katie Pratt, an Illinois farm mom and U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance spokesperson. "Being an informed food consumer will help ensure healthy and nutritious meals for your kids and family throughout the upcoming school year."



For more information about food production and the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance, visit www.FoodDialogues.com. Wholly or partially funded by one or more Checkoff programs.

Design the perfect deck: 5 must-ask questions before you start

(BPT) - A backyard should be enjoyed to its fullest extent. But all too often, homes lack enticing outdoor living areas. One way to give your outdoor space a retreat is to add a new deck. A well-designed deck can extend your living space, make your yard more functional and, best of all, provide a comfortable space for family and friends to enjoy the great outdoors.



If you're ready to build a new deck and turn your backyard into your favorite "room" in the house, here are five must-ask questions to help you design the perfect addition.



1. What do you want your deck to do?



A deck can boost the value of your yard, but only if it fits the way you live. So, before tackling a deck project, set aside time to think about how you plan to use your new space. Whether you're designing a multi-level deck for entertaining or a small, peaceful getaway, a little forethought can go a long way to ensuring your deck suits your family's lifestyle.



For example, if outdoor entertaining is what your deck is all about, an expansive deck with multiple level changes, handrails and furniture can streamline traffic flow and define areas for eating, socializing and relaxing. If a peaceful deck-escape is more your style, a free-standing deck tucked into some foliage in your backyard with a screening trellis and a water feature can create a perfectly restful retreat.



2. How will you access your deck?



As you evaluate your deck's function, keep transitions in mind. The easier your deck is to access, the more you'll get out of it. Decks positioned near frequently used openings, such as the kitchen door, make it simple to travel from one area to the other and are perfect for entertaining. Additional pathway features, like decorative stones and ground lighting, can help guests transition smoothly between your deck and yard.



If you have a raised or multi-level deck, be sure to think about stairs and railings. While these features make it safe to move between your house and backyard, they can also add visual distinction to your deck. Curved stairs, decked out walkways, backlit risers and decorative glass panels can all showcase your creativity while guiding visitors through outdoor living spaces.



3. Is your deck near water?



If you envision lounging waterside, now is the time to think about moisture-resistant decking. Decks near pools, hot tubs and lakes need to withstand frequent exposure to waves, splashing and, in some instances, full water submersion to stay beautiful for years to come.



While there are many decking materials from which to select, advanced products like ChoiceDek composite decking are a great choice for decks with water contact as they protect against moisture intrusion all the way to each board's core. "The boards are so durable they can be installed on the ground, in the ground or underwater without voiding their 25-year warranty. They keep moisture at bay so homeowners don't have to worry about their deck's long-term beauty," says Randy Gottleib, president of ChoiceDek composite decking.



4. How do you want your deck to look?



To make sure your new addition is as big on looks as it is on function, spend time dreaming about how you want your deck to look. Whether you favor sleek, clean lines or more adventurous deck patterns, the secret to a beautiful backyard deck is to make sure it ties-in with your home's architecture.



You can select from a wide array of decking color combinations that complement indoor flooring options, including popular greys and rich dark browns. Or, use contrasting colors to balance your home's exterior color scheme. If you love the look of wood but don't want to deal with all the upkeep, look for modern composites that mimic the appearance of traditional wood decking. Their realistic wood grains blend beautifully into the landscape, and complement many of today's exterior siding options.



5. Are you designing a curved deck?



If you're still looking for a way to set your yard apart, consider incorporating curves into your deck design. Curves can add architectural interest by following the contours of your landscape, encircling hot tubs and pools, or contrasting the straight lines of your house.



Get creative, but don't let materials limit your design. By following manufacturer instructions, you can shape contemporary materials like composite decking into stunning curves that will have neighbors commenting on your deck for years to come.

SEPTEMBER 2016 MARKET UPDATE

September 2016

Included in this blog post is a link to my Real Estate Update Newsletter. Please click on the link below to get the latest Real Estate Update for September! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email my office. 

614-882-6725

delena@delena.com

http://realtytimes.com/214/DeLenaCiamacco