5 Smart Home Upgrades for Under $2,000

Have you found out how much money you’ll receive from the IRS this spring? For the last several years, the average income tax refund has fallen somewhere around $3,000. That’s a nice chunk of change! But before you buy a plane ticket to Paris or splurge on a Rolex, take into consideration how far that extra cash can go if you put it into your home. Whether you’re planning to sell your home in Boston this spring or will stay put for another year or two, making smart upgrades can get you a nice return on your investment when it comes time to sell. Here are the best projects for giving your home a subtle upgrade for under $2,000.

Steel entry door

Boost your energy efficiency and curb appeal by replacing the gateway to your home with a steel door.

Average cost: $1,162 (one door)

Recessed lighting

Have a singular overhead light in your kitchen? Replace it with recessed lighting for a sleek, modern look.

Average cost: $1,622 (six lights)

Granite in the kitchen

It’s no secret that granite countertops are expensive. If you’re on a budget, consider mixing and matching materials, replacing just the surface of your kitchen island.

Average cost: $1,620 (20 sq ft)

Crown molding

Make each room in your home pop with the addition of crown molding. For those with limited funds, stick to the first floor only.

Average cost: $1,415 (200 linear feet)

Glass shower door

When you sell your home in Boston, homebuyers will pay close attention to your bathroom. Make the space look sleek and modern by installing a glass shower door.

Average cost: $955.00 (one door)

These moderately priced home upgrades will leave you with plenty of leftover cash to treat yourself to a luxurious vacation or a fancy addition to your wardrobe. Plus, you’re likely to see a nice return on your investment when it comes time to sell your home in Boston. If you’re thinking about diving into the Boston real estate market this spring, there’s still time to prepare and compete for the attention of hopeful homebuyers. When you’re ready to get started, please contact me. As your Boston real estate agent, I’d be more than happy to fill you in on my proven strategy to sell your home quickly and for a price you’ll be happy with.

Ken Snyder
Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro
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Boston's Best: Day Spas

I don’t know about you, but by the end of February I’m all but jumping out of my skin waiting for warmer weather to arrive. While the temperature outside is anything but toasty, the Boston real estate market is already heating up for the spring season. As a result, I’m finding myself busier than ever. If you’re planning to buy a home in Boston or sell a home in Boston within the next few months, you’re probably feeling the pressure, too! That’s why I have chosen to highlight a few places where you can escape the demands of your everyday life and put your biggest stressors on the backburner. As we patiently wait for Boston to thaw, go ahead and indulge in a facial, massage, or treatment of your choice at one of Boston’s best day spas.

Bella Sante Day Spas

38 Newbury St

Boston, MA

(617) 424-9930

If you’re in need of a full-body massage, look no further than Bella Santé in Back Bay. After all, the spa was voted Best Massage 2012 by Boston Magazine! While you’re there, indulge in a manicure or pedicure to round out your experience.

Exhale Day Spa

2 Battery Wharf

Boston, MA

(617) 603-3100

You can’t go wrong with a visit to Exhale Day Spa. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and book a special treatment like a power body detox or glow body scrub. You’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day.

Bliss Spa at W Boston

100 Stuart St

Boston, MA

(617) 261-8747

After indulging in the treatment of your choice, enhance your experience at Bliss Spa at W Boston with a relaxing steam shower infused with eucalyptus oil. Tip: Get 10% off of your next appointment when you book it the same day.

G20 Spa & Salon

278 Newbury St

Boston, MA

(617) 262-2220

You’ll find G20 Spa & Salon nestled amongst the boutiques and cafes of picturesque Newbury Street. Stop in for a deep-hydration facial or give your hands some TLC with a luxurious manicure.

I hereby give you permission and whole-heartedly encourage you to indulge in a pampering treatment (or two) at one of Boston’s best day spas. After all, this winter has been a brutal one. Between the frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall, our minds and bodies need to recharge before tackling the Boston real estate market this spring! Though the seasons don’t officially change for another month, homebuyers and home sellers have already started coming out of hibernation. When you’re ready to take the first step in your transaction, feel free to contact me. As your Boston real estate agent, I would be more than happy to guide you throughout the entire home buying or home selling process.

Ken Snyder
Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro
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Tax Time: Paperwork to Gather as a Boston Homeowner

It’s that time of year again! Hopefully you’ve started to think about filing your 2013 taxes, because April 15^th will be here before you know it. Usually, the process is usually pretty straightforward without any unexpected surprises or hang-ups. And, if you’re lucky, you’ll start the spring season with a nice refund check you can use to pad your emergency fund, upgrade your kitchen, or make an extra mortgage payment.

For those who decided buy a home in Boston in 2013, filing your taxes will be a bit more complicated than it has been in previous years. There are a number of documents you’ll need to gather and present to your tax advisor to cash in on the tax benefits you’re entitled to as a homeowner. To make sure you don’t miss out on a big return, be sure to bring the following paperwork to your tax professional this season.

Bring your 1098 form

Paying interest is an inevitable part about taking out a home loan. Fortunately, you can claim the interest you paid on your mortgage in 2013. The 1098 form you’ll receive from your lender will show how much interest you paid on the principle in addition to any amount paid for points and private mortgage insurance. The IRS allows you to deduct points for the tax year in which you purchased your home.

Hang onto your HUD-1

Those who decided to buy a home in Boston in 2013 shouldn’t rely solely on the information provided on the 1098 form when claiming mortgage interest. Bring your closing statement, commonly referred to as your HUD-1, to your tax advisor to ensure you’re deducting all of the mortgage interest you’re entitled to.

Your HUD-1 will also show how much you paid in real estate taxes in 2013. As a homeowner, you can deduct your local and state property taxes, so it’s crucial to bring this information along to your appointment.

Save your receipts and utility bills

Certain types of home improvement projects are tax-deductible, so long as they don’t add to the overall value of your home. Furthermore, if you work out of your home, you can deduct items such as your phone bill, Internet expenses, and costs associated with running heat and electricity. Save any applicable receipts, invoices, and utility bills and have them evaluated by your tax professional.

As a homeowner, tax time presents you with a tangible benefit to all of the money you put into your home in 2013. If you have yet to buy a home in Boston, consider the tax benefits you might be missing out on! While renters may get a few tax breaks here and there, the financial benefits of owning a home far surpass those of writing a rent check every month. When you’re ready to dive into the Boston real estate market, please give me a call. I’d be happy to help you find a property that suits your budget and preferences to a T.

Ken Snyder
Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro
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Celebrate Valentine's Day in Boston

Love is in the air in Boston! The sweetest holiday of the year is coming up next Friday, February 14^th. Whether you’re single or attached, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your loved ones how much you care. If you recently decided to buy a home in Boston, you might be stumped as to how you can celebrate. Luckily, I’ve come up with a few ideas that will help make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable. You may even get to explore a side of town you’ve never seen before! Without further adieu, here are my suggestions for celebrating Valentine’s Day in Boston.

Take a cruise around the harbor 

The Spirit of Boston will host a special Valentine’s Day cruise on February 14^th. Dinner, dancing, and a champagne toast will make this a romantic way to celebrate Valentine’s Day at sea.

“In Love with Wine and Chocolate” class and dinner

Take your favorite chocolate lover to Boston Wine School’s “In Love with Wine and Chocolate” event. Taste European and South American chocolates, sip delicious wine, and dine on Penne Fedora, Pollo Cristina and Spinach Florentine.

Dining in the Dark at Hampshire House 

Enjoy a four-course meal in one of Beacon Hill’s most fabulous mansions – in complete darkness! A sensory adventure like no other, this Valentine’s Day is sure to be unforgettable in the best possible way at Dining in the Dark.

Catch a theatrical or musical performance

There’s no shortage of ways to be dazzled and entertained in Boston this Valentine’s Day. Watch West Side Story at Boston Symphony Hall, Blue Man Group at Charles Playhouse, or take the whole family to see Disney on Ice at TD Garden. Get your tickets today!

Valentine’s Day gives us a great excuse to plan a special night on the town. Whether you choose to dine in complete darkness or take a cruise around the harbor, your first Valentine’s Day in Boston is sure to be unforgettable. Do you have anything special scheduled for next Friday night? If so, feel free to share your plans on the KenSnyderHomes Facebook page. While you’re there, take a look at some of the articles I’ve posted recently. Anyone who has plans to buy or sell a home in Boston this year is sure to find helpful tips and information.

If you haven’t yet ventured into the Boston real estate market and are thinking about taking the leap this spring, please get in touch with me. Though it’s only the beginning of February, spring will be here before we know it. And, along with the transition of the seasons will come a surge of activity in the Boston real estate market. As your Boston real estate agent, I’d be honored to guide you through the home buying or home selling process from start to finish. I look forward to working with you!

Ken Snyder
Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro
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