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        <title>Pure Energy Real Estate BLOG</title>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/color-of-the-month-neons.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/color-of-the-month-neons.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>Color of the Month: Neons!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Neon's. Don't be scared to use them around the home! This bright and bold color family is too quickly dismissed when it comes to incorporating them into the interior or exterior of homes. An entire room in hot pink or lime green is a bit much to swallow, and not the way to go when you are looking to create a space you can relax in. However, when used in small doses, these vibrant hues can really make a room stand out in the right way. It's all about percentage.


I love the idea of injecting a shot of neon into rooms to invigorate a space; check out the neon green bathtub, or the hot pink coffee table in an otherwise dark living room. The result is fun and unexpected. 


If you are nervous about taking the neon plunge, start with something small like a cushion or some funky colored napkins for the dining table. A neon pink cushion is much easier to live with than a neon pink sofa! 


Painting your front door in a bright pop of color is a sure way to spruce up a normally neglected exterior feature, whilst also providing a distinctive reference for someone trying to locate your house! The doors below illustrate some successful examples. They work because the bright color is paired with achromatic colors (whites, blacks, greys). The same practice applies inside the home- neon's will always look more balanced when paired with neutral colors. The bold nature of neon's automatically draws the eye to them, that being said, the eye also needs a place to rest.  


Door 1, door 2, door 3, door 4, door 5, door 6, door 7, door 8


'H' Wall, Office, Dresser, Frames, Bath Tub, Sideboard, CushionDining Room, Chandelier, Building Exterior, Bowl, Plant Pots, Office, Vignette, Towel RailDesk, Living Room, Coffee Table, Canvas, Owls, Chair
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            <thumbnail>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/images/blog/2105148645.jpg</thumbnail>
            <pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 2013 09:31:27 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/10313-leslie-street-sold-in-0-days.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/10313-leslie-street-sold-in-0-days.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title> SOLD IN 0 DAYS! 10313 Leslie Street</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Another value-adding home renovation by the design team! 


This month the Pure Energy Team sold 10313 Leslie Street before it was even listed! This wonderful home is move-in ready, but that wasn't the case a couple of months ago! In addition to needing some serious de-cluttering, it also needed interior updates throughout. These updates included fresh paint throughout, new granite counters, cabinets and hardware in the kitchen, new light fixture and bathroom mirrors. Prior to the improvements, this property would have been listed around the $400,000 price range, based on the current market analysis for the Carroll Knolls neighborhood. Post renovation, this stunning home was listed at $469,000 and sold for $483,000, $16k over the list price!


Donna can do the same for you! To schedule an appointment for your free home consultation, contact us.


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            <pubDate>Tue, 28 May 2013 09:49:30 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/reinventing-the-kitchen-backsplash.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/reinventing-the-kitchen-backsplash.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>Reinventing the Back-Splash</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 



When renovating kitchens and bathrooms for clients we often toy with innovative back-splash ideas, but the reality is, when putting a house on the market, the best option is usually the more neutral one. However, this hasn't stopped us looking at creative approaches, transforming the classic tile back-splash into the focal point of a room.


We found a selection of super fun, innovative backsplashes that re-use discarded materials, pattern, natural resources, bright pops of color and wallpaper. 


A new back-splash doesn't have to be expensive or permanent. In fact, as I looked for ideas I stumbled across many blog posts and websites dedicated to providing back-splash ideas on a budget, tailored for renters in particular. Apartment Therapy has some great suggestions that cover both bases. HGTV offers some great video tutorials and tips for installation and practicality. Here are a couple of tips from the Pure Energy design team:




Before installing a back-splash, think about the 'splatter zones' and ensure that the materials you are selecting will hold up to water, oil splatters and food that will leave stains over time


If you are using porous, absorbent materials such as terracotta tile or wallpaper, cover it with glass or plexi-glass for protection


Colored glass looks fabulous but can get pricey. Try adding a cheap and cheerful pop of color to a kitchen or bathroom by masking off the area to be painted and painting directly on the wall. Once dry, fix sheets of plexi-glass over it, screwing into the wall at each corner


Before adhering tile to the wall, arrange/space it out and pre-cut awkward sized pieces in advance 


Avoid using abrasive cleaning products on your back-splash- warm soapy water should be sufficient for cleaning


In a smaller space, a mirrored back-splash can offer a visually bigger one




 Hope these inspirational photos get the creative ball rolling!



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            <pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2013 16:21:16 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/color-of-the-month-soothing-celery.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/color-of-the-month-soothing-celery.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>Color of the Month: Soothing Celery</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Green represents nature, renewal and the Spring season, which is why celery green seems like the perfect color to feature for April. 


Green also symbolizes peace, good luck, tranquility and a sense of calm. Historically, theatres painted rooms where performers waited before their performance in green due to its calming effect. This may be why green remains a common choice of color in bedrooms, dens and offices in particular- interior spaces where people seek rest and relaxation. Because we see green incorporated in nature everyday, this versatile color transitions easily to inside the home as a paint or accent color. The yellow tones of celery green give it a warm, happy vibe making it a favorite choice to energize and invigorate a space. 


Personally I love the pairing of celery green and white- the effect is fresh, clean and modern. Celery green also looks fabulous when combined with the citrus color family, bright blues and yellow and pops of bold color such as hot pink or red (refer to examples below).


To learn a little more about the psychology of green, click here. I also stumbled across a fun room-by-room break down of interior color in the home. Happy Spring everyone!




Living Room, Bathroom, Kitchen, Paint, Ikat Fabric, Coat Rack, Eames Rocking Chair





Living Room, Wallpaper, Side Table, Studio, Shelf, Office, Wall Color





Kitchen, Pendant Light, Cushion, Living Room, Bathroom, Bedroom, Cushion





Kid's Bedroom, Spindle Chair, Wallpaper, Ravioli Chair, Wall Art, Kitchen 


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            <pubDate>Fri, 05 Apr 2013 10:52:59 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/extreme-makeover-in-two-weeks.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/extreme-makeover-in-two-weeks.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>EXTREME MAKEOVER... In two weeks!!!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 



As of yesterday, 9003 Sudbury Road is live on the market, but it was no easy feat getting there! This grand Colonial is a fab house in a great location, filled with abundant natural light throughout, great living spaces including a bonus den/library with floor-to-ceiling shelves and multiple outdoor entertaining spaces including a screen porch, deck, patio and huge backyard. However, as the before photos illustrate, the house was in serious need of updating to bring it into a modern day context to make it desirable to prospective buyers. 


The design team had their work cut out for them with this one, having just two weeks to gather estimates, budget, update, paint, install, replace and stage this house to perfection for the first open house. Phew! Somehow between supervising multiple contractors, dealing with delays, setbacks and a tight budget we pulled off the seemingly impossible. We achieved our goal because this is what the Pure Energy Team excel at!  Where needed, we will help you identify the priority areas in your home that need updating and investing in to ensure you see the highest return at the closing table. We will get you there by using the most cost effective and creative methods. This is what sets us apart from your regular real estate team! 


The before and after photos speak for themselves; if we can achieve a home transformation like this in just two weeks, imagine what we can do for you! You can view more examples of the design team's home renovation and staging transformations here.


#cta-addthis#


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            <pubDate>Fri, 29 Mar 2013 11:24:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/all-about-staging.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/all-about-staging.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>All About Staging</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Did you ever wonder what it takes to stage a house? We'll tell you what it takes! Staging a house is not just fluffing pillows and adding vases of fresh flowers to make it look pretty for the open house. When it comes to staging, the Pure Energy design team covers every base, providing everything needed, from furniture, area rugs and window treatments, to linens, wall art, chotchkies and lamps.


We use our interior design talent to transform spaces, creating immediate positive reactions from potential buyers, which helps them form an emotional connection to your home. We have an inventory of thousands of items that we draw from to create warm and appealing accents that coordinate with your existing furniture or to completely outfit a vacant property. You can learn more about our home stage service here.


Because we are often asked what we use to stage houses, we decided to tally up the staging materials it took to stage a vacant, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home to give you an example. Check out the full before and after staging photo gallery included below! Here's the list...





LIVING ROOM: Sofa &amp; sofa cover, love seat &amp; cover, end table, coffee table &amp; center piece accessory, 2 table lamps, floor lamp, 2 pieces of art, 5 plants, 3 candles, 7 throw pillows, area rug, window treatments


 DINING ROOM: Dining table &amp; 4 chairs, center piece for dining table, buffet, table cloth, window treatments, 3 large pieces of art, decorative accessories


KITCHEN: 5 decorative accessories


SCREEN PORCH: 2 sofas, 6 throw pillows, 2 side tables, coffee table and centerpiece, area rug, plant stand, 3 plants


MASTER BEDROOM: King size bed, bedding including sheets, dust ruffle, duvet &amp; cover, 4 bed pillows, 4 throw pillows, large chair, mirror, 2 table lamps, floor lamp, 4 pieces of art, dresser, window treatments, decorative accessories


MASTER BATHROOM: 2 hand towels, 2 bath towels, wall art, plant, decorative accessories


BEDROOM 2: Queen size bed, bedding including sheets, dust ruffle, duvet cover, 4 bed pillows, 2 throw pillows, 2 table lamps, window treatments, 2 nightstands, dresser, 3 pieces of art, decorative accessories


BEDROOM 3: Queen size bed, bedding including sheets, dust ruffle, duvet cover, 4 bed pillows, 2 throw pillows, 2 table lamps, window treatments, 2 nightstands, dresser, 3 pieces of art, decorative accessories


HALL BATH: 1 Hand towel, 1 bath towels, shower curtain and hooks, artwork, window treatment


BASEMENT REC ROOM: 2 sofas &amp; covers, 10 throw pillows, 3 side tables, coffee table, 2 table lamps, dining table with centerpiece, 4 chairs, area rug, desk &amp; desk chair, 4 large pieces of art, bookshelf, 2 plants, decorative accessories


LOWER LEVEL BATHROOM: Shower curtain &amp; hooks, bath towel, hand towel, 2 pieces of art, plant


#cta-addthis##gallery-4-east-franklin-avenue# 
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            <thumbnail>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/images/blog/979963307.jpg</thumbnail>
            <pubDate>Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:42:59 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/another-stunning-pure-energy-renovation-project-404-whitestone-road.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/another-stunning-pure-energy-renovation-project-404-whitestone-road.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>Another Stunning Pure Energy Renovation Project- 404 Whitestone Road</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
*UPDATE! This property sold in 9 days for FULL PRICE WITH MULTIPLE OFFERS!  Pure Energy can do the same for you!


404 Whitestone Road has long been a landmark for Whitestone Road residents, known as the big red house and used primarily as a reference point in giving directions.  Apparently the neighbors are rather bummed the handy reference point is gone.  Unfortunately for them, the faded worn red was traded in for a fresh unifying paint on the exterior to ramp up the curb appeal.  It's usually the first thing people see when viewing a house in person or online so paying attention to the old addage about second chances and first impressions is as important in real estate as it is in your personal life.





Upon first viewing of this house, I knew it had amazing potential and was really excited to be given the chance to make it shine!  In addition to the exterior, the kitchen (an important focal point for most buyers and the epicenter of family life) was in serious need of some reconfiguring and updating.   For such a sizeable kitchen, it wasn't living up to its' potential.  The old cabinets had clearly been around for quite awhile (I suspect made by a previous home owner) and showing their age. The faux brick on the back exterior wall and the recessed shelving between the range and the refrigerator weren't helping to maximize cabinet and counter space, the poor range (and the person doing the cooking) was stuck all the way in the corner and the vinyl flooring was starting to curl up at the bottom of the cabinets and the edge of the shoe molding in some places.  Our solution:  demo the faux brick wall, the old cabinets and counters, move the range across the room to make room for a super storage corner cabinet with a lazy susan inside (such a great feature), add new Kitchen Kompact Maple cabinets all the way around to the refrigerator, new granite counters and a new ceramic tile floor extending through the kitchen, pantry and half bath. ET VOILA!  What we have here folks is a snazzy new kitchen with an abundance of storage, easy on the eyes and likely to wow potential buyers!  For $11,400 this kitchen went from ruh-roh to rock star! 


As with most houses prepping for the real estate market, the whole interior was painted, we replaced several light fixtures and gave the upper level bath a bit of a face lift by removing dated wall tile and replacing a vanity that had seen its' better days.  Swapping wall tile for an interesting paint color made for an affordable upgrade and a new vanity doesn't have to break the bank.  I chose one in a dark finish to add some contrast to a very light and airy bathroom. 


In total the owners spent $23,845 renovating this house. It sounds like a lot (and it is) but the house had been a rental property for several years and needed the TLC we gave it to stand out in a competitive market.  The renovation figure included painting every surface inside and out, the kitchen renovation, baths, updating light fixtures, professional cleaning services for the interior, windows and carpet, landscaping and service to the water heater.  Had this house been listed in its' original condition, it would have likely listed in the $475,000 range.  Post renovation (just 3 weeks) and professional staging the house is listing today for $539,000 and I have no doubts it will go quickly!  


For more information on this exceptional home, click here


#cta-addthis#


#gallery-404-whitestone-road# 
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            <thumbnail>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/images/blog/1994130100.jpg</thumbnail>
            <pubDate>Fri, 15 Mar 2013 11:29:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/before-after-magic-10603-inwood-avenue.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/before-after-magic-10603-inwood-avenue.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>Before &amp; After Magic- 10603 Inwood Avenue</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
JUST LISTED! 10603 Inwood Avenue, Silver Spring


When I first walked into this Colonial for a design appointment a couple of weeks ago, it was clear that the house had plenty of charm, but was in need of some updates to transform it into a SUPER charming house that would grab the attention of prospective buyers.


Many of the Colonials in the Chestnut Hills neighborhood of Silver Spring have a smaller footprint- the majority having two levels and no basement. Because of house size, it is important that the interior spaces are well thought out, staged in a functional manner and the presentation is top notch. 


The old half sized oven and lack of counter space made reconfiguring the kitchen a main priority. We maximized the kitchen space by moving the refrigerator into the laundry room/pantry (directly off the kitchen) and installed a brand new, full sized oven where the refrigerator was previously. Doing this gave us an extra cupboard and additional counter space. A new microwave shelf was aloso built to gain more counter space. Investing in granite counters increased the overall kitchen appeal to prospective buyers. 


Fresh paint, new light fixtures and some serious de-cluttering completed the interior transformation. The exterior had a small face lift of its own- the shutters were painted to highlight the windows, a new shed was installed and both the front and back yards freshly landscaped to present the house at its best. 


For more information about this exceptional home, click here.


#cta-addthis#


#gallery-10603-inwood-avenue#
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            <thumbnail>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/images/blog/308923767.jpg</thumbnail>
            <pubDate>Fri, 08 Mar 2013 16:42:00 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/winter-comfort-food-shwarma.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/winter-comfort-food-shwarma.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>Winter Comfort Food- Shwarma!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 



Today's snowquester may have been an over hyped bust in terms of snow accumulation but it's a reminder that though it is March and spring is  technically close (come on daylight savings!), winter isn't over yet.  To that end, on nasty days like this when I feel stuck inside (whether I really am or not) and cabin fever-ish, my mind wanders more than normal to the creature comfort foods that tend to have a warming effect on my soul and result in the kind of fullness accompanied by total content.  One of my favorites in this category is SHWARMA!  I want it and I will have it....as soon as I've worked up the motivation to leave the warmth of indoors and brave the slush and ick this faux blizzard brought with it.  


For any who've never heard of or seen Shwarma, this is what Wikipedia has to say about it.  "Shwarma is a Levantine Arab meat preparation, where lamb, chicken, turkey, beef, veal, or mixed meats are placed on a spit, and may be grilled for as long as a day. Shavings are cut off the block of meat for serving. Although it can be served in shavings on a plate (generally with accompaniments), shawarma also refers to a sandwich or wrap made with shawarma meat. Shawarma is eaten with tabbouleh, fattoush, taboon bread, tomato, and cucumber. Toppings include tahini, hummus, pickled turnips and amba. It is now a fast-food staple worldwide."





I find that definition a bit underwhelming compared to what it feels like staring at a Shwarma bar with toppings galore laid out in front of me. I get so excited when I walk into a Shwarma place I can barely contain myself.  My favorite in the area (by far) is Max's Cafe and Catering. I've been a seeker of Shwarma for a long time and in my opinion, Max's is the best! Their selection of toppings is more than you could hope for and they have the friendliest staff who sometimes throw in a falafel ball or two for repeat customers.  The guys at Max's know what I want when I walk through the door!  If you are a first timer, tell them so. They will guide you gently and explain all the different options available to you.  Some of the veggies available aren's super common or recognizable but don't miss out on delicious new things because you don't know what they are!





One thing to remember and take into consideration when planning a visit to Max's is that they are kosher and observe Jewish food laws and holidays very closely.  Most specifically, they close every Friday at 2pm.  I've made that mistake more than a few times and shown up for lunch at 2.15 only to be saddened by my failure to acquire a most sought after belly pleaser.


Are you dying to try one yet?  I hope so! You won't be disappointed. Speaking of, it's quitting time for me and I'm off to get some Shwarma.  I have no doubts it will have the desired effect of wiping away thoughts of this dreary day and sending me home with a smile on my face. Happy Shwarma-ing folks!
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            <pubDate>Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:16:00 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/color-of-the-month-moody-blues.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.pureenergyteam.com/blog/color-of-the-month-moody-blues.html</link>
            <author>donna@pureenergyteam.com (Donna Kerr)</author>
            <title>Color of the Month: Moody Blues</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 

Although they fit with the Wintery season, moody blues don't have to convey a sense of gloom and coldness. In fact, when used in home interiors these colors can result in quite the opposite. By nature, blue has a calming, soothing effect, making it a suitable color choice for any room of the house. 





I love how some of the photos featured here have taken stormy blue tones and/or themes and transformed them into something that makes you smile. Yes, I am referring to the adorable rain cloud cushion and head board decor with fairy lights- who wouldn't want that in a nursery or kids bedroom! I think that these blues tones as a paint color would be a welcome addition to any guest room, to create a restful space- the stunning, double-twin bed guest room with the wooden deer heads does this successfully. Blues with gray and white tones can offer sophisticated and dramatic statements, especially when paired with fresh whites or bold oranges. 


 


Benjamin Moore has a handy source of color inspiration on their website where you can search rooms by color, which offers ideas of how to incorporate and coordinate color palettes into various rooms of the house. FYI: they also offer a gorgeous range of moody blue colors in their Color Preview collection.


 


Entryway, Wallpaper, Bathroom (Pure Energy Renovation), Living Room (Pure Energy Renovation), Hallway, Bedroom





Living Room (Pure Energy Renovation), Cushion, Galaxy Bedding, Bathroom, Rain Cloud Cushion, Paint Color, Stairway, Stay a While, Feathers





Stairway (Pure Energy Renovation), Vignette, Ikat Cushion, Ogee Design, Sofa, Dresser, Sun Room (Pure Energy Renovation), Lamp, Bedding





Guest Bedroom, Bedroom (Pure Energy Renovation), Bathroom (Pure Energy Renovation), Blue &amp; Orange Room, Painting, Bathroom (Pure Energy Renovation), Kitchen
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            <pubDate>Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:04:46 -0600</pubDate>
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