2019 Coachella Valley Annual Real Estate Report
and 2020 Projections  

Coachella Valley Real Estate Market
Our market has become more year round with the number of sales during the summer months exceeding sales during “season” in the past two years running.

WHO WERE THE HOME BUYERS
Remote Owners represented 50% of our home buyers who were looking for a second home or investment property.  Nearly 68% of those Remote Owners came from other California cities, followed in numbers by Washington state. Canadian Home Buyers are making an appearance again, with 14% of the Remote Owners coming from Canada.

Home Buyers from other metropolitan markets; especially our drive markets such as Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego see great value here in  Coachella Valley Real Estate.  Baby Boomers are cashing out from other areas, and looking for a Lifestyle in their retirement; that’s largely what’s driving home sales in the Coachella Valley.  Our sunny blue skies are pretty inviting, compared to snow and rain in other parts of the country.

See All of the Homes for Sale in the Desert HERE

WHAT WERE THE HOME BUYERS LOOKING FOR?

Bigger is not necessarily better in the case of our home buyer demographic.  Aging Boomers want a simpler lifestyle and a home that requires less maintenance.  Great Room Living, Each Bedroom with en-suite baths, Master Suite separate from the Guest Bedrooms, No Stairs and Light and Bright inside – with the current design trends showing Sleek White Gourmet Kitchens. Outdoor Living is a Must with Covered Outdoor Seating and Outdoor Kitchen / BBQ, most home buyers want a private pool and Views.

HOME BUYERS WANT TO BE WHERE THE ACTION IS

With more and more commercial development and signature events going on here in the desert,  growth is on a fast pace and home buyers want to be where the action is. The Coachella Valley has an attractive lifestyle and home prices are a bargain comparatively speaking.

COACHELLA VALLEY REAL ESTATE BY THE NUMBERS

2019 Coachella Valley Real Estate had 9,787 sales.  That number is down about 5% from the 10,295 units that sold in 2018.  The reason is mostly due to a lack of inventory, (3.9 month supply of homes on the market), but price sensitivity is also a factor.

VALLEY HOUSING INVENTORY

January 1, 2020 there were 3,200 units for sale vs 3,398 units for sale January 1, 2019. The valley median price for detached homes was $425,000 up 9% in 2019.  Median prices for attached homes was also up, 2% at  $279,000.

The Luxury Home Market has seen in increase in both home value and sales.  The California Desert Association of Realtors reports in the million dollar plus market, there was a 22% increase in sales in the 4^th quarter of 2019.

CHECK OUT THESE LUXURY RESORT PROPERTIES

The National Real Estate Outlook
Home prices increased across the country in 2019 and experts predict the National Housing Market will remain strong through 2020 in the January Forbes article: “Five Housing Market Predictions for 2020” they cite crazy rents in the luxury apartment market is driving Millennials to buy instead of rent.  More aging Baby Boomers are expected to sell their homes looking to transition into smaller homes with less maintenance.  Some estimates say as much as 27% of the housing inventory in the country could hit the market between now and 2040, easing the housing shortage.  The National Association of Home Builders report home builder confidence is at a 20 year high, paving the way for a boom in new home construction.  That combined with low mortgage rates the outlook for 2020 is strong.

California Real Estate Outlook
The median home price in California was up about 4.1% in 2019, while the number of sales were down slightly.   The California Association of Realtors forecast a similar uptick in prices through 2020. Housing affordability, (just 32% of households can afford a median priced home),  and low inventory have been an ongoing challenge in California, mortgage interest rates at near historic lows are giving home buyers more buying power.

Best Home Remodel Projects Under $10,000
Is it in the Bedroom, Bathroom or Kitchen?

Home improvements, can average $20,000 or more for a Kitchen or Bath remodel according to Remodel Magazines, Cost vs Value Report. But the average homeowner is budgeting about $9,000 for a remodel this year. So how do you know where the best money is spent?

Here are a few tips How To Get The Biggest Bang for your Buck with the Best Home Remodel Projects Under $10,000.

Bathroom

• Install modern plumbing fixtures
• Replace a cabinet with a vanity
• Update the counter tops
• Replace dated lighting
• Add storage by adding shelves

Bedroom

• Brighten up the room with an accent wall and lighting
• Add storage with a closet organizer / system
• Add an area rug
• Update the window coverings
• Beautiful Linens

Kitchen 

• Add contemporary counter-tops and door hardware.
• Customize the pantry with storage.
• Add modern plumbing fixtures.
• Add a suite of Stainless Appliances
• Give cabinets a face-lift with new paint.

When it comes to the best home remodel projects under $10,000. these budget-conscious improvements can keep you from overspending.  Your highest return will be with the simple things that make your home look more modern, and add more functionality to a room. It pays to spend wisely!

Speaking of great remodels did you see this  Lock and Leave Golf Villa in Palm Desert? Check it out!

Home Staging or Home Styling is about telling the story of your home.  By adding dramatic punches of color or texture, using furniture or accent pieces in unexpected ways you can bring out the personality of your home.  You can, without words, tell your potential home buyer just how fabulous it is to live here!

Here are a few design trends that can be an easy way to start your story.

Get your Juju – Hand Crafted Hats by Tribes in Cameroon.

Juju hats, were worn by royal dancers during Bamileke tribal ceremonies. They symbolized prosperity and were created from natural or dyed chicken and wild bird feathers.

The Juju hat creates an interesting design element and can tie a room together with a wide variety of rich colors. A Great way to add texture and pops of color to any room.

Side Table Crazy – Curate a Modern Aesthetic.

The standard wood or glass coffee tables are making way for a new innovative approach using a variety of side tables with the same or contrasting finishes at various heights and grouped together to create a cool modern look.

Light or Art? – Statement Lamps Make a Big Splash in Home Design and Staging.

Sculptural lamps add a sense of drama and sophistication. Home Buyers will be wowed when they see dramatic floor and wall lamps that blur the lines between form and function.

Reflections –  Make a Drama Statement with a Shimmering Pool of Color

Finding exactly the right color for a room is a defining moment in the design process. Once you’ve got the color perfect, it’s time to talk about the finish. Make a Statement by Adding Drama to the room with Super High Gloss Paint that shows like a shimmering pool of color. Paint an accent wall, the ceiling, or add a high gloss accent piece to the room to make an eye catching statement.

Weaving the story about your home is the art of marketing and presentation.  The way your home is presented, both online with photos and in person is what differentiates your home from the competition.  As that online buyer makes their way to your front door to look at your home in person, they want to be wowed.

In the Desert Real Estate Market, home buyer’s are more sophisticated than ever, they’re looking for a lifestyle. In other words they’re looking for the whole package – stylish, clean, well put together, well kept and easy to maintain, they want …..
“Hotel Ready”. 

See the Before and After on a Great Lock and Leave Golf Villa in Palm Desert

If you’re thinking about selling your Desert Home, give us a call today for a consultation. Let’s talk about how Home Styling can improve what you can ask and receive for your home.

Not quite ready to talk about selling your home yet?  That’s OK, you can still Find Out What Your Home Could Sell For now at My HomeValue365.com 

Home Design Trends for 2018 – Each year Fixr conducts a national survey of home industry influencers in the US; those who are building, designing, manufacturing and publishing content relevant to the field, revealing single family home design and construction trends.

Gen X’ers are the most likely group to buy a single family home with Millennials representing the second largest group in the 2018 Fixr Survey. There are many reports that show Millennials are driving the current market.

In 2018 more home buyers are looking for single story homes with more than 2,000 sq ft with an open floor plan and they want to live in urban areas.

Smart home features and automation are gaining traction at an incredible rate and is the number one choice for popular home design trends going forward.

Green and Energy Efficient Design is important to both Gen X and Millennials, but more so for the Millennials with Smart Thermostats, Home Automation Security, Lighting Control Systems, Smart Appliances.

Artificial intelligence and voice control systems will start showing up in homes in 2018.

The open floor plan has been the most popular layout since 2013 and will continue to grow going forward.

For current homeowners, when it comes to affordable upgrades, energy efficient upgrades and style enhancements were popular.

Dimmable lighting allows the homeowner to influence the mood of a room at all times of the day and night. Wireless hubs and concealed components are considered to be integral in nearly every home. 

Adding energy efficient windows were another popular trend for homeowners.

Adding outdoor living spaces will be a popular addition in 2018 with more Millennials looking for indoor / outdoor living.

Home Buyers are beginning to expect both function and aesthetics, while function is the primary goal, aesthetics go a long way toward providing comfort and personal expression.

There is a delicate balancing act for home builders between homes that are aesthetically pleasing to the eye vs energy efficient homes that may feel cold or impersonal.

Most designers agree that form should always follow function and the most successful home design blends the two attributes creating a cohesive design, enhancing the homeowners experience in the space.

Get more information about what today’s home buyers are looking for before you put your home on the market.  Give me a ring, I’m happy to share my knowledge and experience to help elevate your home above the competition (760) 218 – 5752.

Home Staging Trends for 2018

Staging can run from full to partial

Home staging trends for 2018 have gone mainstream and is now widely used to make a home more attractive to potential buyers.

Most real estate professionals agree; staging can increase the sale price of a home.  But even it doesn’t increase the price, it reduces the amount of time the home sits on the market which is music to any home sellers ears.

Staging can range from Full to Partial
Small efforts like de-cluttering and partial staging can go a long way for homeowners who are still living in their homes while on the market. The challenge is to incorporate the homeowners existing furniture, blending with a few new pieces and keep with the current style and trend for the area.

A  Personal Touch
In the past, keeping things neutral was the way stagers appealed to the widest range of home buyers, now the trend is to incorporate more design style and color in the home to add a wow factor. Today’s buyer wants to see personality and what their lifestyle would look and feel like if they lived there. Personal details create an aspirational image and can help reach buyers on an emotional level.

Color
After a few years of all things gray, people are embracing beige and creamy white again with pops of color or an upscale design element to appeal to the design savvy home buyer.  Two color trends showing up in 2018 design is dark Teal and Millenial Pink.  If you’re in a first time home buyer market, these are two colors that will appeal to this demographic.

Adding pops of color using large colorful artwork and accessories is a good way to create a wow factor.

Flooring
Hard surface flooring continues to be the trend.  Stone, wood, bamboo, and wood look tile are popular trends that will continue.

Counter-tops
Quartz is the current trend for high-end and even not so high-end homes for 2018.  Granite has become the minimum standard for home buyers in all price categories.

Bling
Yes, gold tones are back. Now you’re seeing a lot more shiny metallic’s to add bling to an otherwise neutral palette.

Not all homes  need a dramatic make-over, but most will benefit from at least a thorough cleaning, de-cluttering and culling.

For more information about staging your home to sell, we have an easy guide to help. Email Cathi today for your free copy of  “It’s Showtime!”

New Design style, color, and patterns are a great way to keep your home looking fresh and current and also adds appeal to potential home buyers when you’re selling your home.  When staging your home to sell, here are a couple of staging tips incorporating new design trends.

Color Thread – A new color can feel like it belongs if you repeat the color in different ways throughout a room and carry it through the house, like a thread of color weaving its way through each room in small but impactful ways.

Example, start with a bold area rug in the Great Room that introduces your new color palette. Add throw pillows, a pot with a live plant, a few accessories and maybe a piece of art that also have your new colors.

As you go through the house, find at least 3 areas in each room to bring your new colors in, subtle ways. It could be as simple as a few books on a shelf with your colors, a throw across the bed. Towels in the bathroom with bath soaps. Have a recipe book on the Kitchen counter open to a delicious looking recipe with your colors, a bowl of all the same fruit in your colors.

Painting or wallpapering a feature wall in the Great Room, or Master Bedroom with an element of your new color palette can add a wow factor to any room.

Match your decor to your home’s style and price range. It goes back to knowing who your buyer is, and creating the right lifestyle.  For example, you wouldn’t want to use fussy traditional furniture in a desert contemporary home.  If your home is high-end, then your accessories and furniture should also look high-end.

2018 Home Design Trends –
What to Ditch and What to Look for

OUT – Chevron Patterns and Gray

Time to ditch the Chevron pattern that we’ve seen everywhere from wallpaper to lampshades. Muted gray and white is on the way out, making way for color.

IN – Color 
Warm rich color is making its way onto walls, moldings, and furniture in a big way.  Peacock Blues and Greens, Burnt Orange, and even pops of “Gen Z Yellow”

OUT – White Kitchens and Large Range Hoods 

All white Kitchens are still popular, however, black, two tone cabinets, and wood tone cabinets are the trend for 2018 with Quartz counters.

IN – Warm Woods and Integrated Range Hoods

OUT – White on White Everything

Monochromatic white on white interiors are giving way to more realistic lifestyles that include kids and dogs.  Look for rich warm colors to show up in 2018.

IN – Warm Color

OUT – Farmhouse Style

The Farmhouse look has been in style for about 4 years.  2018 Style trends are moving toward minimal design.

IN – Warm and Minimal

Headed to the Desert to play Golf?   Take a look at our 2017 Desert Golf Course Over Seeding Schedule so you don’t miss one minute of Great Golf!

       
If you’re unfamiliar with the Phenomenon of our Desert Golf Course Over Seeding, here are the basics of what you will see happening on our local courses over the next couple of months. Currently, our local golf courses have warm-weather Bermuda grass on the fairways and tees and almost every course in the desert has some Bermuda on their greens. 

Bermuda grass goes dormant and turns brown during the cooler winter months. So to keep the courses green and playable, they cut the Bermuda grass so short it’s mostly dirt, then they spread tons of winter rye grass seed and add lots of water. During the over seeding process and while waiting for the winter rye to take hold well enough to stand up to play, the courses close during the grow-in period, usually 3 – 4 weeks.

Here is a partial list of our Local Desert Golf Course

Over Seeding Schedules by City, then by Club

Desert Golf 

Course Overseeding Schedule for

PALM DESERT
See All Available Palm Desert Golf Course Properties HERE 
BIGHORN Golf Club

Mountain Course
Closing October 2 – Reopening November 3, 2017
Canyon Course
Closing October 9 – Reopening November 10, 2017

Classic Club Palm Desert

Closing October 9 – Reopening November 11, 2017

Desert Willow Golf Resort

Mountain View Course 
Closing September 25 – Reopening October 26, 2017
Firecliff Course
Closing November 13 – Reopening December 25, 2017

Desert Falls Country Club

Closing October 9 – Reopening November 10, 2017

Ironwood Country Club

South Course Closing October 14 – Reopening November 22, 2017
North Course Closing October 2 – Reopening November 7, 2017

Monterey Country Club

East Nine Closing October 2 – Reopening October 28, 2017
South Nine Closing October 9 – Reopening November 11, 2017
West Nine Closing October 16 – Reopening November 18, 2017

Palm Valley Country Club

Champion Course
October 9 – Reopening November 10, 2017
Challenge Course
Closing September 25 – Reopening October 20, 2017

Stone Eagle Golf Club

Closing September 25 – Reopening November 10, 2017

Desert Golf Course Overseeding Schedule for

INDIAN WELLS
See ALL Available Indian Wells Fairway Properties Available HERE

Desert Horizons Country Club

Closing September 24 – Reopening November 11, 2017

Eldorado Country Club

Closing September 25 – Reopening November 7, 2017

Indian Wells Country Club

Classic Course
Closing October 9 – Reopening November 10, 2017
Cove Course
Closing September 25 – Reopening October 28, 2017

Indian Wells Golf Resort 

Celebrity Course
Closing October 16 – Reopening November 2, 2017
Players Course
Closing September 2 – Reopening October 12, 2017

The Reserve Club

Closing  September 25 – Reopening November 10, 2017

Toscana Country Club

South Course
Closing September 26 – Reopening November 11, 2017
North Course
Closing October 2 – Reopening November 11, 2017

The Vintage Club

Mountain Course
Closed – Reopening  November 11, 2017
Desert Course
Closing September 25 – Reopening November 11, 2017

Desert Golf Course Overseeding Schedule for

RANCHO MIRAGE
See ALL Available Rancho Mirage Golf Course Properties HERE
Mission Hills Country Club
 
Arnold Palmer Course
Closing October 13 – Reopening November 10, 2017
Dinah Shore Course
Closing October 20 – Reopening November 17, 2017
Pete Dye Course
Closing November 5 – Reopening December 5, 2017

The Club at Morningside

Closing October 1 – Reopening November 7, 2017

Tamarisk Country Club

Closing October 1  – Reopening November 10, 2017

Thunderbird Country Club

Closing  October 1 – Reopening November 4, 2017

The Springs Country Club

Closing October 2 – Reopening November 9, 2017

Westin Mission Hills

Pete Dye Course
Closing September 29 – Reopening October 23, 2017
Gary Player Course
Closing October 30 – Reopening November 23, 2017

Desert Golf Course Overseeding Schedule for

BERMUDA DUNES
Bermuda Dunes Country Club

Closing October 2 – Reopening November 3, 2017

Desert Golf Course Overseeding Schedule for

LA QUINTA
See ALL Available Fairway Homes in La Quinta HERE

Andalusia Country Club

Closing October 1 –  Reopening November 10, 2017

PGA West

Stadium Course
Closing October 9  – Reopening November 2, 2017
Jack Nicklaus Course
Closing October 2 – Reopening October 26, 2017
Greg Norman Course
Closing October 27 – Reopening November 21, 2017
Jack Nicklaus Private Course
Closing September 25 – Reopening October 26, 2017
Arnold Palmer Private Course
Closing October 20 – Reopening November 21, 2017
Tom Weiskopf Course
Closing September 18 – Reopening October 19, 2017

The Citrus Club at La Quinta

The Citrus Course
Closing October 2 – Reopening November 2, 2017
The Mountain Course
Closing October 23 – Reopening November 2, 2017
The Dunes Course
Closing September 25 – Reopening October 19, 2017

Hideaway Golf Club

Pete Dye Course
Closing September 25 – Reopening November 11, 2017
Clive Clark Course
Closing October 2 – Reopening November 17, 2017

The Quarry at La Quinta

Closing October 2 – Reopening November 10, 2017

Silver Rock Resort

Closing October 9 – Reopening November 7, 2017

Tradition Golf Club

Closing September 25 – Reopening November 11, 2017

Desert Golf Course Overseeding Schedule for
INDIO
See ALL of the Available Indio Fairway Homes HERE
Golf Club Terra Lago

South Course
Closed  – Reopening October 7, 2017
North Course
Closing October 12 – Reopening November 22, 2017

Indian Palms Country Club

Indian Course
Closing September 5 – Reopening October 13, 2017
Mountain Course
Closing September 5 – Reopening October 13, 2017
Royal Course
Closing September 5 – Reopening October 13, 2017

Late Spring. when the temperatures rise, the rye grass dies out naturally, but the Bermuda grass which has been dormant over the winter comes back to life. With the help of our highly educated golf course superintendents here in the desert.

In years past the over seeding process created billows of dirt and dust into the air creating a dusty, air-choking, allergy inducing haze across the entire valley, sending anyone with allergies running to the medicine cabinet for help. Today,  the process is much gentler, better for the courses and for the desert air quality.

Resorts with multiple courses will stagger the over seeding schedules to keep at least one course open while the other course is closed. By the end of November, all of the desert courses are a shimmering emerald green, just in time for the snowbirds arrival and another great golf season in the Desert!

Looking for that perfect Desert Resort Lifestyle?  We are Local Experts, specializing in the best opportunities available in Desert Fairway and Resort Properties.  Contact us directly for more details Cathi Cell: (760) 218 – 5752  or Cathi@DesertAreaHomeFinder.com

Should You Remodel or Buy New?  It’s a big question, not all remodeling projects will return your cash investment and that may be okay if you’re doing it to enhance your lifestyle and you plan on living in your home for many more years.

However, if you think you might move in the next 3 – 5 years you should know what the best home improvements are for the highest return.  Or it may make more sense for you to find a home that better fits your lifestyle and needs.

We’ve created this Checklist to help you think through all the steps of Remodeling.  The purpose is to address all aspects of your Remodeling Project and the process, so you can clearly define what you really want to accomplish, arrive at a practical end product in a style that suits your family and within your budget.

FIRST, SOME BROAD QUESTIONS:
Off the top of your head, what are the Top 3 priorities that immediately come to mind when you think about you remodeling project?

Are You Planning to Remodel the Entire Space, (Interior and / or Exterior) Or Partial remodel such as Kitchen or Bathrooms?

Do you have a budget in mind?
What is the low, medium and
your “Not to Exceed” Budget?

What is your timeline?
    Do you have a drop dead date the remodel
must be completed by?

ABOUT The space  –
What will it be used for and Who will use it?
     Is this currently, or will it become your
Permanent Residence?
Vacation Property?
Will it be used as a rental for income?

Household Members:
How many Adults, Children, Pets?

Any Special Needs?
     Counter Heights, Door Width,
Handicap, Elderly or Small Children?

Is Entertaining Important?
Your Entertaining Style is:

Formal / Informal / Both

How many guests typically?

What type of entertaining?

Meals, Music, Games, Movies, BBQ?

Any Special Cooking Facilities Required?

Professional Grade Appliances

Island with Second Prep Sink

Walk In Pantry

Butler’s Pantry
Wine Storage

Does More Than One Person Cook at a Time?

Where Do You Like To Eat Meals?

Dining Table, Kitchen Table, Kitchen
Counter, Family Room, Other?

 Hobbies?

Reading, Cooking, Home Theater, Music,
Crafts, Sewing, Sports, Other?

Any Technical Needs?

Computer, Laptop, Docking Station,

Charging Station, Wireless Hub, Satellite,

Surround Sound, Home Theater

Home Office?

Any special needs such as Soundproofing,

Computers, Task Lighting, Storage, Printer

Dedicated Entrance

Lighting?

Locations that may need more lighting?

Specialized Lighting for Art (niches or walls)

Bathroom or Kitchen Task Lighting

Family or Living Room Ambient Lighting

Storage Needs?

Garage Cabinets / Closet Organizers

Books, Holiday Decorations, Kitchen

Appliances or Serving Dishes

EXTERIOR SPACE

What are the most important outdoor spaces?

Patio Dining, Covered Outdoor Living, Pool,

Spa, Fire pit, Outdoor Kitchen with BBQ, Sun

Deck, Private Spa, Putting Green, Fountain

or Water Feature, Courtyard Garden Entry.

INTERIOR SPACE

What interior features are important to you?

Wet or Dry Bar with or without Seating,

Built in Refrigerator, Fireplace in Living or

Master Suite, Separate Closets in Master,

Guesthouse,

Do You Want to Add or Enlarge?

A room or Guest House?

Wine Room

Butler Pantry

Exercise Room

AC to Garage

Home Theater or Sound System

Do You Want to Add or Enlarge – Continued

Home Automation System –
What will it control?

Remote Controlled Window Coverings

Remove a Wall to Open two rooms together

Power Awnings

Security Screens or Gates

ENVIRONMENT

Are “Green” Objectives important to you?

Energy Audit for Cost vs benefit Analysis

Energy Efficient Heating and Cooling
Energy Efficient Appliances

Solar

Backup Generator System

Low Water Landscape

Low Water Fixtures

Indoor Air Quality – Duct Cleaning

Dual Pane Windows, Low “E”

Duct Sealing

New Insulation

 AMBIENCE

What Atmosphere Do You Want to Create?      

Casual, Formal with defined spaces, Clean

Lines, Warm & Cozy, Open Light and Airy,

Elegant, Sophisticated, Lived In, Romantic,

Welcoming, Contemporary

What is Your Style?

Tuscan, Beachy, Old World, Mediterranean,
Cottage, Art Deco, Asian, Tropical, Mission,

Southwest, Modern Minimalist,

Contemporary,

Color and Tone Preferences:

Lighter or Darker

Cool such as Blue, Gray, Black,     White,

Warm such as Earth Tones Beige, Brown,

Subtle Tones or Bold and Bright

Colors You Dislike:

Hard Surface Material You Like?

Hard Materials You Dislike?

Flooring Preferences?

Wood, Cork, Bamboo, Carpet, Marble,

Stone, Concrete, Ceramic or Porcelain Tile,

Saltillo Tile, Combination, Other

Counter / Vanity Preferences?

Granite, Marble, Quartz, Tile, Wood

Accent Preferences?

Stone, Texture, Wallpaper, Contrast Paint

Mirror, Glass,

Window Treatment Preference?

Bermuda Shutters, Verticals Blinds, Pleated

Shades, Motorized Solar Shade, Drapes,

Roman Shades, Grass Roll up, Ceiling

Pockets for Disappearing Electric Shades

Door and Cabinet Hardware Preference?

Knobs, Levers, Pulls Bronze, Chrome, Satin

Nickel, Brass, Other

Cabinet Finish and Door Style Preference?

What Style do you like?

Stained or Painted

Wood interior or Melamine

Self-closing drawers

Full extension drawers

Corner Turn Table

Custom Built or Pre Fab Cabinets

KITCHEN

How do you use your Kitchen?

Do you want family and Guests in the Kitchen to Help or Do You Prefer the Kitchen to be a Separate Room out of sight?

How many Cooks in the Kitchen at the same time?

Is the Primary Cook Left or Right Handed?

Does the Cook Have Any Special Needs?

Disability

Height

Do You Use Caterers to Prep, Serve and Clean Up for Entertaining?

KITCHEN – continued

Where do you want the family to eat?

Kitchen Table

Kitchen Bar

Are there Small Children to Accommodate?

Do you want the Kitchen Open the Family Room?

Do you Want a Formal Dining Room?

Seating for how many people

What is Your Cooking Style?

Gourmet

Family Style

Do you Bake

What Type of Food Prep Do You Need?

Daily Heat & Serve

Daily Full Course Meals

Weekend Family Meals

Weekend Entertaining

Quantity Cooking

Any Secondary Activities or Amenities You Want in the Kitchen?

Computer or Recipe Desk

Wet Bar

Wine Storage

Homework or Craft Station

Laundry

Herb Garden

TV

Charging Station

Integrated Refrigeration Drawers

ORIENTATION OF KITCHEN

Partition walls be removed or altered?

Florescent Lighting to be Removed?

Relocate the Sink or Appliances

Add a Gas Line

Add a Second Water line and Drain

Add an Island

Reconfigure or add a Work Triangle

Add Skylight

Add More Lighting

EQUIPMENT TO INCORPORATE INTO KITCHEN

Professional / Residential Grade Appliances,

Microwave, Trash Compactor, Icemaker,

Dishwasher, Separate Cooktop with Gas or

Electric, Double Ovens, Convection Oven,

Built In Refrigerator / Freezer: style and size,

Double or Single Bowl Sink, Second Sink, Pot

Filler at Cook Top, Instant Hot, Filtered

Water, Updraft or downdraft vent,

Architectural hood, Wine Cooler.

STORAGE SYSTEMS

Do You shop in bulk and need extra storage?

What cooking equipment needs to be accommodated, i.e. Pots, Pans, Small Appliances

Specialized Storage such as spices, cleaning supplies, baking equipment, cutlery, plastic storage containers, non-refrigerated foods

Recycling receptacles  and location

Display Storage such as Cookbooks, Dinner or

Glassware, Wine,

QUESTIONS TO ANSWER

Are there enough electrical outlets

Do you need to bring a Gas Line in

Is there enough light

Add recessed lighting

Are light switches where you want them

Add dimmer switches

Is ventilation and cooking exhaust adequate

Preferred cabinet door style

Cabinet Facing Material,

Wood Stained, Painted or Washed,

Laminate or Thermofoil

QUESTIONS TO ANSWER

Sink Material

Faucet Finish

Counter Material

Backsplash Material

Flooring Material

Wall and Ceiling Paint Color

Lighting,

Pedant, under cabinet, recessed, display

cabinet lighting

BATHROOM

How with the Bathroom be Used?

Is it for personal, family or guest use? Are there special needs now or in the future such as height, handicap, small children, etc.?

Do you need to accommodate any non-traditional activities such as Laundry or Washing Pets?

How much Storage do you need?

ORIENTATION OF BATHROOM

Is the Bathroom large enough

Can you relocate a door or window to help

Is it connected to a Bedroom as you like

Is there enough natural light

Add a skylight or solar tube

Remove Tub and Add Walk in Shower

BATHROOM FIXTURES

Change or Upgrade Toilets

Whirlpool Tub

Shower for One or Two People

Adjustable Show Heads

Multiple Shower Heads

Body Sprays

Bidet

Glass Enclosure

No Enclosure, Walk In

Pedestal Sinks or Vanity Cabinets with Sinks

Vessel Style Sinks

Chrome, Satin Nickel, Brass, Bronze Fixtures

BATHROOM STORAGE

Salon Style Storage for Hair Dryers, Curling Iron

Electrical Outlets inside Drawers or Cabinets

Towel Bars how many, location

Towel and Linen Storage in or near the Bath

Add Storage or Closet System to Closet

 BATHROOM STYLE, APPEARANCE & FINISH

Cabinets, Single or Double Vanity

Recessed Medicine Cabinet

Wall to Wall or Framed Mirrors

3 Way Mirror

Knee recess / Makeup Mirror

Cabinet Door Style, Finish

Cabinet Hardware

Countertop Material

Sink Material

Backsplash Material

Flooring Material

Heated floors

Faucet Finish

Shower and Tub Surround Material

Enclosure Material

Wall and Ceiling Paint Color

ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

Does the Heating and Air Conditioning

System Operate Adequately?

How old is the Water Heater?

Would you consider Tankless Water Heater

Do you want to add water saving fixtures

Are electrical outlets GFCI protected

Hard wired smoke, carbon monoxide, and home

Alarm system

Add Solar Panels

ADDITIONS

Depending upon the layout of your home, it may be possible to add a room without adding to the building’s footprint.  Example, you may be able to convert part of Laundry Room into a Powder Room.

Make a sketch of the layout you want, collect Magazine Clippings, Photos, and bookmark Websites that Illustrate Your Favorite Look and incorporate into an Idea Book where you keep all of your best ideas in one place.

Kitchen and Bath Design Trends…
Each year, all the major Kitchen and Bath suppliers come together for The National Kitchen and Bath Show,  the “Design and Construction Week” is the place to be and be seen for Architects, Designers and Contractors to meet and greet new suppliers, spot new Kitchen and Bath Trends and designs for the coming years.

According to KBIS, (Kitchen and Bath Industry Show), and NKBA, (National Kitchen and Bath Association) There are several developing trends you’ll want to take into consideration if you’re beginning a new remodeling project.  Here are the biggest Kitchen and Bath Design Trends they see that will carry you into 2018 and beyond.

SAY FAREWELL TO GRANITE COUNTER TOPS!
We’ve seen the transition away from granite for about 2 years now.  Quartz is now the number one trend and is here to stay for a while.  It’s durable, there are many finish choices and Quartz gives your Kitchen and Bath a fresh new look.
  

BELIEVE IT OR NOT, BRASS IS BACK!
Yep, it is hard to believe.  The trend started about a year ago, we were seeing hints of Blush Blonde accents, (they were trying to ease us 50 something’s into the transition), now bold brass is everywhere you look, from furniture accents to full on Lighting, Plumbing Fixtures and more.  Chrome and satin still reign supreme….for now, but if you want to lean into the trend ahead Brass is it!

STONE SINKS STAND THE TEST OF TIME
Carved stone sinks are where the trend is headed. Porcelain is still classic and will withstand the test of time but the new hot trends are stone.  

BLEACHED WOOD WITH CONTRASTING FINISH CABINETS
A huge trend showing up for 2018 is bleached woods and two tone cabinets. White has come and is now on its way out.
  

BLUE
The biggest trend in Kitchens and Baths right now is color, especially blues.  It’s showing up in everything from cabinets to appliances.
 

COLOR IS EVERYWHERE
Cabinets Faucets, Appliances, and even Sinks.

WHITE SUBWAY TILE IS ON ITS WAY OUT
Finally, boring white subway tile is on its way out, Texture, color, pattern and unique design are the hottest trends for back splashes and more.

Selling a home in the desert has unique opportunities and perhaps some challenges as well. Home Buyer’s may or may not be full time residents, this might be their weekend get away for the family or a winter respite; they may be more willing to try the newest trend as a departure from the style and design of their main home.

The main thing to remember in any remodeling project, they must blend well and look like they belong in your home. While the newest trends are exciting, incorporating them into your existing home can be a challenge so the remodel doesn’t stand out like a sore thumb. The project needs to fit with the overall style of your home.  For example, if you have a Spanish Hacienda, remodeling the Kitchen to look like a sleek mid century modern may not be the best choice for re-sale. Likewise, remodeling your Kitchen to state of the art Chef’s Kitchen, while the rest of the house and bathrooms remain 1980’s vintage can thwart your best intentions if you’re looking for top dollar on resale.

Before starting a remodeling project, consult with a designer yes, but also consult with your realtor!  Everyday, we see and hear first hand what works and what doesn’t; we hear directly from our Buyers what they’re looking for and where they see value.  When you’re thinking about selling your home, often times it’s some of the smallest things that will give you the biggest return.

As one of the leading teams in the desert real estate market and staging professionals, we work with our home sellers to help bring focus to the highest value projects for the best return on investment. We are local Professionals and offer a Full Suite of Services for our clients, as we did for this client at La Casa Feliz in Thunderbird Terrace, Rancho Mirage, who did a major remodel and wanted to sell their home for top dollar.

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the desert, and want to talk about the latest Kitchen and Bath Design Trends for your home, give us a call today; (760) 218 – 5752.  We’re here with information to share and happy to help.  Get your copy of Desert Living Online, with an ongoing series of home staging articles and desert events. Drop me a line at Cathi@DesertAreaHomeFinder.com and we’ll be happy to keep you in the loop!