If you
are thinking about making some changes to your home in a small or large way, I
always suggest that my clients do some homework. You have probably heard the
old adage, "Measure Twice, Cut Once"? That just means to make
sure of what you are doing before you do something that cannot be reversed.
Here are several places where you can gather ideas before you start making
decisions and putting a budget and plan of attack together for any changes that
you might like to make in your home.
1. Go and visit new model homes in your area! Builders are
always cutting edge in the decorating, finishes and colors, so stopping to look
at what they are showing and selling will give you some good ideas. Some builders
do not mind if you take photos, but ask first!
2. Look at magazines like Better Homes and Gardens, Southern
Living and others that are on a typical magazine rack. You can always find an
abundance of this type of resource at the checkout at Lowe's and Home Depot.
Put together a file or scrapbook of what you find that you really like.
This can be a reference for you when you are ready to start the pricing
process.
3. For
great kitchen ideas, go to Cultivate.com. This is a site that features
photos, a blog with discussions and great articles on everything kitchen. Many
times the articles provide pros and cons, pricing and durability of
different finishes; for example, granite, concrete, quartz countertops, so that
you can see what will work best for you.
4. I
love Houzz.com for
all the photos and great ideas for every budget! You can create a personal
"idea book" where you can save the photos that you like.
5. Check out Lonny.com which
is a very cool online magazine that has a very trendy and sophisticated
look.
