Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Bunion blues: Don't think you're immune





Bunions are bumps that form on the outer edge of the big toe when the bone or tissue of the toe joint moves out of place. If you have a bunion, the spot is likely red, swollen and may hurt like crazy. About 23 percent of people between 18 and 65 have bunions, 35 percent of people older than 65 have them, and women are more likely than men to have them, according to a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research.



According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, bunions can form at any stage in life, and several factors influence their growth, including:



* Genetics - People with flat feet, low arches, arthritis or inflammatory joint disease - all ailments that tend to run in families - are more prone to developing bunions.



* Footwear - Shoes that are too tight or that squeeze the toes together (like those stylish pointy-toe shoes you love) can aggravate a bunion-prone foot. In fact many of the trendiest footwear fashions are harbingers of bunions to come - so you can't possibly be too cool to develop a bunion.



* Injuries - Any injury that causes damage to the big toe joint could inspire the formation of a bunion.



If your bunion is just beginning to form, you may be able to inhibit its growth with a few lifestyle changes. Avoid wearing heels higher than 2 inches, and purge your shoe wardrobe of all styles that have tight toe-boxes. Using a bunion pad inside your shoes can also provide some protection and slow down the bunion growth.



But if your bunions are getting the best of you - and interfering with your mobility - it's time to see a podiatrist. Podiatrists are uniquely qualified to treat ailments of the feet and lower extremities, including bunions. Your podiatrist will be able to diagnose your bunions and he or she may recommend treatment options that range from:



* Using padding and taping to minimize pain and keep your toes in a normal position, which will reduce stress and pain.



* Prescribing anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone injections to ease acute pain and inflammation.



* Physical therapy, including ultrasound therapy.



* Orthotics or shoe inserts to control foot function and prevent bunions from getting worse.



* Surgery if your bunion problems are extreme.



Every year, bunions bring thousands of Americans into podiatrist offices around the country. A few simple lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk of developing bunions, and treatment for existing bunions can help ensure they don't interfere with your mobility and enjoyment of life.



Simple designer tricks for creating a stunning master bedroom





"When designing a space in your home, it's always a good idea to go through the process in a methodical way to achieve the results you want," says Jill Winninger, Allied ASID, CID, and senior interior designer with Seaside Home in La Jolla, Calif. "Foundation, function and finishing details make the process fun and effective."



Here is Winninger's three-step process for creating a grand master retreat:



Step 1: Foundation



Start by choosing the flooring that matches your personal style and the functionality of the space. Nothing beats the comfort of carpet in a master bedroom. Carpet and a high quality pad keep floors warmer and enhance privacy by absorbing noises. Today's top trend in carpet is super soft and silky fibers that feel luxurious when you step, lie or lounge on them.



Think carpet is out because you have allergies? It's time to think again, Numerous medical and other studies show that people who suffer from allergies and even asthma do not have to live without the comfort and softness of carpet. That's because the dust that falls to a carpeted floor has a much stronger tendency to stay on the carpet until it is vacuumed away. Dust on hard floors, however, is stirred with every passing movement or footstep right back up into a room's breathing space.



Of course, regular maintenance is important. Frequent vacuuming with a high efficiency vacuum like the ones on the Carpet and Rug Institute's Seal of Approval vacuum list, as well as periodic deep-cleanings are musts. -And, no matter what kind of floor you have, high-traffic areas should be vacuumed daily, with less frequently-used areas vacuumed once or twice a week.



Another important foundation element is the walls. When selecting colors, select hues that work with the rest of your home's decor so the spaces flow smoothly. You can't go wrong with basic neutrals. Foundation details like crown molding, wainscoting or wallpaper can add a splash of personality.



When deciding on foundation elements, keep in mind the focal points of the room. Is there a fireplace? A gorgeous wall of windows highlighting an exquisite view? Do you have a bed with a statement headboard that will be prominent? Highlight these focal points within your design decisions.



Step 2: Function



Beauty is just one part of the equation when designing a grand master bedroom. The space needs to function and suit your lifestyle.



Function is particularly important when selecting furniture. Do you need storage for clothes and accessories? Do you want to hide electronics? Do you have a specific bed size? After considering your options, choose wisely and allow enough room between furniture pieces so that you can move freely.



Privacy is also an important consideration. Like carpet, window treatments also help to control noise, plus they offer the added benefit of masking -windows in the evenings and when high levels of privacy are needed. From a decorative perspective, window treatments add softness and style, critical to designing a stunning room.-



Step 3: Finish



Some of the most important elements of master bedroom design are the details. This is where you can add a few personal touches to the space to create a truly individualized sanctuary.



Start by choosing comfortable, inviting bedding, pillows and throws. Create clustered vignettes of photos or personal collections to give the space your unique stamp. Appropriately scaled art and accessories add visual interest.



Remember, accessories are a good way to add splashes of color to your master bedroom. If you like a particular tone - like rich teals, ruby reds or baby blue - select a few accessories that feature that hue and strategically place them throughout the room. Accessories that feature different textures add interest and character as well.



"From carpet and furniture to photos and duvet covers, creating a master retreat you'll love is simpler than you think," says Winninger. "Just focus on the foundation, function and finishing touches, and the result is sure to be gorgeous."



Friday, March 25, 2016

3217 E 7th ST Des Moines, IA 50316

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/4D6AJM
Incredible investment or fixer upper opportunity! Spacious rooms and closets. Hardwood floors under carpet, enclosed back porch and jet tub in bathroom. Great northeast side location, close to schools, shopping, bus stops and more. Home sold "AS IS". A must see!
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1.00
Square feet: 1,167
Price: $69,900

For more information about this property, please contact Angie Robinson at 515-230-3683 or angie.robinson@remax.net. You can also text 3460189 to 67299.


See more listings at: angie.robinson.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513906

Thursday, March 24, 2016

411 SE Delaware AVE # 204 Ankeny, IA 50021

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/5FBQVN
Move in condition 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in Maplewood village. Adult living at its best. The work has been done for you in this updated condo, newer flooring, appliances, some lighting, paint. Furnace and AC are a Lennox brand top of the line unit. Kitchen features an eat at bar, computer desk area and lots of cabinets and cupboards. The master bedroom is being used as a second family room/den but proves to be large enough to seat your family on the holidays. Building has elevator and security. The association dues cover insurance, exterior maintenance, snow removal, lawn care, sprinkling system, trash collection, maintenance of the interior halls and commons areas, water and sewer and hot water. The building has a lounge plus a rec room with a pool table. A separate lodge features a pool, spa, sauna, exercise room, party room, kitchen and bathrooms.
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2.00
Square feet: 920
Price: $90,000

For more information about this property, please contact Lois Lundgren at or loislundgren@remax.net. You can also text 3457084 to 67299.


See more listings at: loislundgren.com


MLS ID: 513775

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

This top garage trend keeps gaining momentum



(BPT) - The carriage house garage door is to your house what the little black dress and strand of pearls are to your wardrobe; classic style elements that never go out of fashion.



At the dawn of the automobile age, those who were affluent enough to own a car kept it in the carriage house, where the horses and buggy would have been stored. But this cohabitation became a little, well, smelly, and the need for separate storing structures was soon realized.



Enter, the garage. Built in the style of the original carriage house, the garage's sole intent was to store the car away from the animals and elements. The word garage actually comes from the French word, garer, which means to shelter and protect. Naturally, the garage needed a door to offer protection to the automobile. The ensuing "carriage house door"was a hinged, double door that swung outwards, and can be considered the original garage door.



In the early 1920s, the kickout door was invented and progress continued from there, bringing homeowners the modern convenience of today's overhead garage doors. Today's carriage house sectional garage doors open overhead and continue to gain in popularity, constituting 35 percent of the volume in the garage door industry with projections to remain a huge trend.



When it comes to the style of garage door chosen, most homeowners want something classic, that won't fade in popularity over the years and will also enhance curb appeal. This is especially true if home resale is a factor.



The carriage house door also offers a myriad of design elements. For example, the Classica Collection by Amarr offers a dual-directional wood grain design that provides the realistic look of wood with the practicality and low-maintenance upkeep of steel. With a three-section design and the option of larger windows, this door offers a more authentic carriage house look with the benefit of additional natural light flow into your garage. Two-tone looks are also available with many color combinations and panel designs, and hardware and window choices are plentiful. These different design options can be tailored specifically to your home's facade and will further enhance curb appeal.



If you're thinking of replacing a tired garage door in an effort to boost your home's curb appeal, consider the classic carriage house door whose popularity has only continued to grow over the last century. With a timeless design that can be specifically tailored to your house, it's a choice that both you - and future owners of your home - can happily live with for a long time.



710 NE 46th CT Ankeny, IA 50021

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/W7XGFD
Stunning 3 BR walk-out ranch boasts a perfect floor plan for entertaining & features birch cabinets, warm inviting colors & granite countertops. Relax on your covered deck or curl up in front of the cozy gas FP. Large kitchen features a multi-level island, tiled backsplash & stainless steel appliances, pantry & lockers off the garage. Master BR w/ a flat screen TV & stunning master BA w/double vanity, walk-in closet & tiled shower. The decorative touches & architecture in this home are amazing! Too many amenities to count including: landscaping, shed, garage w/epoxy floors/painted walls/cable hookups/gas heater, covered deck w/dimmer lights/fan/cable hookup, outdoor LED lighting on the front of the house w/dimmers, security system, new interior paint fall of 2015, stove upgraded in 2014, Bosch dishwasher, new toilets (Toto) 2015 & dimmers in LR & kitchen areas. Walk-out basement has partial finish including framing, fireplace & ventilation. This home is a MUST SEE in a great location!
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2.00
Square feet: 1,464
Price: $270,000

For more information about this property, please contact Stephanie VanDerKamp at 515-210-3210 or stephanievanderkamp@remax.net. You can also text 3453800 to 67299.


See more listings at: www.VDKRealEstate.com


MLS ID: 513676

3632 E Sheridan AVE Des Moines, IA 50317

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/966M7H
Great investment or fixer upper opportunity! $41,500 less than zestimate as of 3/18/2016 and $ 30,000 less than Polk county assessment. Home needs work but great east side location. Tons of potential. Come check it out.
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 1.00
Square feet: 840
Price: $67,300

For more information about this property, please contact Angie Robinson at 515-230-3683 or angie.robinson@remax.net. You can also text 3453791 to 67299.


See more listings at: angie.robinson.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513588

Sunday, March 20, 2016

6361 NE 9th CT Des Moines, IA 50313

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/R95QK5
New Construction! Across from Woodland Hills Golf Course. This is a lovely home with coveted front entry, an open floor plan, 3 car attached garage and covered deck. Beautiful two story has remarkable executive trim, brushed nickel fixtures, gas fireplace, carpet, tile and wood floors, bathrooms with granite counters and built in lockers near garage entry. Kitchen has granite counters, island and tile back splash. Beautiful master bedroom with tray ceiling, walk in closet, linen closet, raised double vanity and rich tile shower. 2 additional bedrooms share jack and jill style bathroom. Lower level with ideal 9 ft. ceilings. Annual Association dues $200. Builder is Leto Homes. Seller is related to Listing Agent.
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3.00
Square feet: 1,788
Price: $259,950

For more information about this property, please contact Jennifer Leto at 515-979-7581 or jleto@remax.net. You can also text 3440196 to 67299.


See more listings at: jleto.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513232

Friday, March 18, 2016

1413 Euclid AVE Des Moines, IA 50313

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/C888FH
This duplex has one bedroom in each unit. Each unit has a full basement with laundry hook ups. The duplex has newer vinyl siding and newer windows which were replaced about five years ago. Both units have sump pumps. Alley access with off street parking.
Bathrooms: 2.00
Square feet: 936
Price: $79,900

For more information about this property, please contact Marlene Thatcher at (515) 770-9331 or marlenethatcher@gmail.com. You can also text 3423085 to 67299.


See more listings at: marlenethatcher.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513505

407 SE Delaware AVE # 206 Ankeny, IA 50021

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/9LAR2B
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2.00
Square feet: 1,103
Price: $97,000

For more information about this property, please contact Lois Lundgren at or loislundgren@remax.net. You can also text 3423060 to 67299.


See more listings at: loislundgren.com


MLS ID: 513145

Thursday, March 17, 2016

403 1st ST E Altoona, IA 50009

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/87HG39
This amazing split level acreages is located on the edge of Altoona. Great access to the interstate, shopping, restaurants and entertainment. The well maintained home has over 1900 sq. ft, 3 bedroom and 3 bath areas. The upgraded features in this one of a kind home are new carpet, lovely cherry hardwood flooring, a large kitchen, a great floor plan with a 2 car attached garage along with a large oversized 2 car detached garage. The grounds are one of a kind. Turn key home.
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3.00
Square feet: 1,315
Price: $242,000

For more information about this property, please contact Sue Sutton at 515-250-3126 or suesutton@remax.net. You can also text 3417238 to 67299.


See more listings at: suesutton.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513269

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

1007 Emma AVE Des Moines, IA 50315

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/TE96V4
Great investment or fixer upper opportunity! Home priced $26,000 below zestimate as of 3/15/2016. Needs some updates but lots of potential and great Southside location. Nice gardening spot behind house and lots of little sheds to store gardening items. A must see, come check it out!
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1.00
Square feet: 1,018
Price: $67,634

For more information about this property, please contact Angie Robinson at 515-230-3683 or angie.robinson@remax.net. You can also text 3413780 to 67299.


See more listings at: angie.robinson.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513315

2744 E Washington AVE Des Moines, IA 50317

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/WK2TPV
Great investment opportunity! $30,000 less than zestimate as of 3/14/2016. Home needs some work and updates, ready for your renovation ideas. On a large lot and newer 2 car garage. Come check it out!
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1.00
Square feet: 804
Price: $33,650

For more information about this property, please contact Angie Robinson at 515-230-3683 or angie.robinson@remax.net. You can also text 3413775 to 67299.


See more listings at: angie.robinson.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513301

518 1st ST Colo, IA 50056

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/WTW7CA
Enjoy small town living only 20 miles from Ames! This 2 story, 3 bedroom home (possible 4th bedroom) has tons of potential and ready for your home improvement ideas. Kitchen is in the process of getting new drywall and will be completed by the seller. Metal roof and siding are in great shape and furnace is only 2 years old. Home is priced to sell, $26,605 below zestimate as of 3/15/2016. Home is in the Colo/Nesco School Disirict.
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 1.00
Square feet: 1,326
Price: $65,000

For more information about this property, please contact Angie Robinson at 515-230-3683 or angie.robinson@remax.net. You can also text 3413759 to 67299.


See more listings at: angie.robinson.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513295

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

Don't settle for a mundane bathroom remodel



Walking through the door you notice beautiful tile in rich, deep tones beneath your feet. Then you see polished, elegant fixtures, and warm, gentle, ambient lighting. Have you walked into a posh resort with a top of the line spa? No, you've simply entered your own modern bathroom designed with your style and your needs in mind.



When it comes to bathroom remodels, the sky is the limit. In fact some plumbing contractors also provide total, upscale bathroom makeovers. Long gone are the days of the water closet where function is the only driving force in design. Today, aesthetics, functionality, indulgence, and personal taste rule the design and remodeling of the modern bathroom.



It is no longer necessary to limit yourself to the regular old standards for bathroom design. So many options are available in a wide range of budgets that it is completely realistic to design the bathroom of your dreams and go far beyond the mundane. What about going for a spa type bathroom with a whirlpool tub, warming lights, and heated towel racks? Or why not create a man cave with a state of the art sound system and television screens?



Although today's bathrooms offer all the functionality of designs past, they are no longer stark and minimalist. One look in the showroom and you will see many style choices from classical to contemporary to modern. There are also many choices in the type of products. Indulge in such things as rain shower heads, saunas, tankless water heating systems, and surround sound systems, to name a few.



Completely modernized whole shower systems with multiple jets, temperature controls and individual memory options can be installed to suit your personal needs. If a bath is more your style, whirlpool bathtubs, nostalgic claw foot style tubs, or the larger and more spacious garden tub may be the option for you. Perhaps both will find their way into your design, and why not? With professionals available to make sure your quality products are installed correctly there is no reason not to pamper yourself.



When it comes to a bathroom design or remodel, using a professional will not only save you endless time, but it can potentially save you a lot of money as well. No one else knows the products they work with better than a professional, let alone how they should be properly installed and maintained. Performance is extremely important and no one wants to worry about whether their fixtures and appliances are going to be installed to work correctly. Peace of mind, after all, is priceless.



For your new bathroom, whether it's a new construction or a bathroom remodel, contact a professional. They can help make your vision become reality. And should the need arise, you can also call them for help with water heaters, drain cleaning, and sump pumps. All of your needs can be addressed by the professionals.



by: Nick Messe

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_6428.shtml



How to write a professional real estate property description that sells



There are do's and don'ts when it comes to writing a professional property description that sells. An effective property description can determine whether or not you sell the property.



Headline:



To begin, your headline must jump out from the page and catch the attention of the buyer. Make the headline appealing with captivating and positive words.



Description:



Always begin your description with the selling points of the property. List the best features first to keep the attention of the buyer. Use adjectives to spice up the description. For example, instead of stating dining room, try spacious dining room for your family to gather and share a meal. Let the buyer know why they will want the selling points of the house.



It's important to sell the area to potential buyer as well. Are you selling to someone looking for a single family home or a multi-million dollar estate? Highlight points in the area that appeal to your buyer like schools, shopping, public transportation, etc.



Location:



Include the geographical area in your description. Many buyers are looking to buy in a specific area.



Price:



Including the price of the property is especially important for the sale by owners. Price inclusion is also a way to screen potential buyers.



Call to Action:



End your description with encouraging words for buyers to call you. Give them a reason for a call to action. "This beautiful property will go fast, call now for more details."



Wording:



Choose your words wisely and keep them positive. Certain words sound better and are more appealing to potential buyers. For instance try cozy instead of small.



Now that you know what should go into an effective property description, you need to know what shouldn't. Avoid the following:



* Spelling, grammar and punctuation mistakes



* Uncommon abbreviations



* Clichés



* Jargon



* Passive voice



* Over the top vocabulary



Write in the present tense and make sure to include words like you and your in your description. This way potential buyers will feel as though you are speaking directly to them.



by: Rose Manning

Article Source:

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_7348.shtml



2901 E 40th ST Des Moines, IA 50317

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/AJMR7K
Very well kept, 2 owner ranch home, move in ready. Beautiful hardwood floors. Eat in kitchen plus dining room area. Large bay window in Living room. Enclosed sunroom with all around windows. Basement has finished area plus tons of storage and brand new furnace. Over-sized 24x24 garage. Nice level yard. Back yard almost completely fenced. Come take a look!
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2.00
Square feet: 1,088
Price: $144,900

For more information about this property, please contact Laura Mullin at 5153062027 or lmullin@mchsi.com. You can also text 3410744 to 67299.


See more listings at: lmullin.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 513254

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Motivational Quote of the day by Henry James



"Be not afraid of life believe that life is worth living and your belief will create the fact."

― Henry James



1425 Metro East DR # 110 Pleasant Hill, IA 50327

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/5QFCY9
FOR LEASE ONLY. $975 per month for 1250 square feet with 3 year lease; $1025 for 2 years and $1100 for 1 year. Build to suit is negotiable to be included in with lease depending on term, etc. Up to 5,000 square feet combined space is available. Great flex property for small business to operate or large item storage facility.
Bathrooms: 0.00
Price: $9

For more information about this property, please contact Eric Vanderploeg at 515-729-4989 or evanderploeg@remax.net. You can also text 3394132 to 67299.


See more listings at: evanderploeg.remax-central.com


MLS ID: 512944

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Raising the bar on bath safety



(BPT) - The bathroom is your daily sanctuary to retreat to and enjoy a few moments alone. For that reason, it should be serene, stylish and of course, safe. Think that words "safety" and "style" can never go together? Think again. Fortunately, it's easy to incorporate essential bath safety elements that will leave your room feeling more like a resort instead of rehab.



A twist on towel bars



When entering or exiting the bath, many homeowners reach for a towel located on a towel bar just outside the bathtub or shower. While this is a convenient location, unfortunately bathers instinctively grab onto the towel bar to ease in and out of the shower or tub. This can be a serious fall risk, since towel bars are not designed to support a person's weight. Fortunately, Moen has combined the functionality and beauty of a decorative towel bar with the safety benefits of a grab bar with the Moen Home Care Grab Bar with Towel Bar. Available in the most popular finishes to seamlessly integrate with the style of your bath, this unique product is easy to install to ensure a safe - and stylish - addition to the bath.



Safety with shelves



From shampoo to shaving cream, razors to rubber duckies, the bathtub or shower is an area where we store a multitude of items. With this in mind, homeowners are always looking for ways to conquer the clutter. Shelves are an excellent answer - especially when you can combine them with safety and peace of mind. Look for shelves that combine the functionality and style of a shelf with the safety of a grab bar. Some are featured in both corner and straight designs and will help solve your storage woes, while providing extra stability in the shower or bath.



"Grab bars are an important safety element for all ages - in fact, we could all use a little extra assistance in the shower," says Adam Ference, Moen Home Care brand manager. "By incorporating grab bars into common bathroom accessories, we hope to encourage homeowners to make every bath a safe - and stylish - bath."



Serenity with showerheads



When you think of resorts, you may recall the spectacular spa showers. You can dramatically enhance your daily shower experience by simply updating your current showerhead. There are many types, but a combination showerhead, such as the Moen Caldwell Brushed Nickel Slide Bar showerhead, can offer a relaxing retreat while also adding safety features. Combination showerheads feature both a standard showerhead and a handheld showerhead attached to a slide bar, providing users multiple spray options. And, with the added benefit of a handheld shower, users who choose to bathe in a seated position can also easily and safely enjoy the sensational experience.



Luxurious illumination



For the final step to your safety-upgraded bathroom, increase the amount of lighting. Add higher-wattage bulbs in your current lights, nightlights or additional lamps to the room for improved illumination. Another option is adding skylights. Not only will it help reduce bumps and falls, but a well-lit bathroom will also make the space feel more open and spa-like.



Increasing your safety does not mean decreasing the style in your bath. In fact, with these easy, inexpensive and attractive updates, you can quickly raise your level of bath safety, while creating a more enjoyable and stylish bathroom retreat.



For more information on Moen products, visit www.moen.com.



Motivational Quote of the day by Malcolm Forbes



"To live long and achieve happiness, cultivate the art of radiating happiness."

― Malcolm S. Forbes