The first annual St Jude Depot Dash 5k and Fun Run is officially up and – pardon the pun – running! Held in conjunction with the popular Ringgold’s 1890 Days Jamboree on Memorial Day Weekend, we anticipate the Depot Dash will become a longstanding addition to the festivities. The 5k and Fun Run routes will start and end at the Ringgold Depot. The Depot Dash committee is working hard to bring in food trucks and other entertainment to make the event even more fun for folks of all ages. They encourage all to come dressed in their best 1890’s garb! Timing for the 5k will be provided by Chattanooga Track Club.
Here is all the details: What: St Jude Depot Dash 5k and Fun Run When: Saturday, May 27th, 2023 5K race begins at 8:30AM Where: Ringgold Depot – 1890’s Day Jamboree Registration: Chattanooga Track Club website Fees: March 1 – May 1 5K $25, Fun Run $20, Families pay only for first four members Awards: 1st and 2nd place for age division, Overall men and women and Master men and women
Awards will be made from lumber used as part of the 2023 St Jude Dream Home. Swag bags and race t-shirts provided to the first 150 people who register. Door prizes will be given away at the end of the race. Winners must be present to win.
All profits raised from the St Jude Depot Dash 5k and Fun Run will be donated to the St Jude Children’s Hospital to help continue the amazing work they do for children and their families who are fighting cancer.
The Depot Dash is offering race sponsorships at all levels. Please contact Cheryl Moore at cheryl@homelifebycore.com if you or your business would like to become a sponsor.
New Homes vs Used Homes
Are you experiencing joy gap?
What exactly is “joy gap”? Joy gap is the difference in what your are expecting to feel concerning an event and what you actually feel once that event has occurred. Whenever you are considering a move, whether it’s across town or across the country, there is that excitement/anticipation of setting up a new home in a new location. Of course, there is some apprehension, but for most folks the opportunity to start with a “clean slate” is exciting. So now, you are faced with the decision – do I buy new or used? Or if your timeline allows – do you build your new home from the ground up?
Used Homes – Pros and Cons
Pros Usually in established neighborhoods Quick contract to close time frame (if the house is empty) More inventory of homes on the market to choose from
Cons Did the homeowner disclose a true history of the home to the Realtor? Age of major appliances How reputable was the builder of the home? Were past repairs done by reputable contractors? What sort of pesticides were used outside and inside the home? How energy efficient are the appliances, windows, and insulation? Has the home been pre-treated for termites? What events – sick babies, new puppies, etc are deep-soaked into the carpets and paddings? Older neighborhoods rarely have amenities
New Home – Pros and Cons
Pros All new appliances Up-to-date room layout: no tiny bathrooms or closets Energy efficient appliances and insulation New paint New roof First homeowner Up-to-date neighborhood amenities
Cons Neighborhood may still be under construction, and construction vehicles are coming and going Home may not be ready for immediate move-in Homes may be slightly higher in price
The fact is, we have never know of someone moving into a used home who doesn’t do a deep clean and paint the interior before moving in. We’ve heard stories of a “new” roof being installed over the old. The underlying wood never checked. The homeowners can’t understand why they have leaks with a “new” roof. Or a hot water heater giving up the ghost two years after moving in.
There is a definite joy gap. Tim Costello of BDX explained at the recent International Builders Show that there is at least a 20% difference in the happiness of home buyers based on whether they bought a new home or a used one. As Tim points out, used home buyers always move in with a “to-do” list. New home buyers only have “ta-da”. Used home buyers spend their weekends at Home Depot, new home buyers spend their time ….. however they want.
Core Homes has homes available at every stage of construction – to build from scratch to move-in-ready. Let us help you find one that will make you say, “TA-DA!”
Biophilic Design – Enhance Your Home, Naturally
The concept of biophilic design has been around for a few years, but has come to the forefront recently. Perhaps it was all that time we spent indoors during the pandemic – but folks are yearning to be “out”, and if we can’t be out, we want nature, “the out”, to be in our homes. Even before the pandemic people spent up to 90% of their time indoors, says Katie Gloede of Architect Magazine.
So What is Biophilic Design?
First made popular by scholar Edward O Wilson in the 1980’s, biophilia is the urge for humans to affiliate with other life. Bringing natural elements into your home, to be experienced with all the senses, has a lot of health benefits. Studies conclude that the incorporation of biophilic elements in our work and home: 1. Decreases stress, enhances creativity, and lessens recovery time for illnesses (that alone is reason enough to bring in nature) 2. Is not just plants – even though that is a good start – but also is about biomorphic patterns and shapes, and water features. 3. Maximizes natural lighting, which balances our circadian rhythm. 4. By improving air flow, which improves brain function.
Here is a quick video from HGTV that shows different ways to bring in biophilic elements into your home.
If you are ready to start bringing natural elements into your home, Better Homes & Gardens recommends this starter list of easy care plants:
1. Norfolk Island Pine 2. Dieffenbachia 3. Philodrendron – the ubiquitous favorite – extremely hardy 4. Snake Plant 5. Spider plant 6. English Ivy – in the Tennessee area, some folks see this as a pest plant rather than a desired potted plant 7. Jade Plant 8. Ponytail Palm 9. Schefflera 10. Corn Plant
BHG also offers advice on how to bring plants into every room in your home. Some great, biophilic friendly ideas are:
1. Surround seating areas, top to bottom, with plants. 2. Dress up your Dining Room with a potted plant instead of cut flowers. 3. Group closely spaced plants to create a focal point. 4. Go vertical with plants up a blank wall. 5. Put plants in unexpected places such as above a bedroom headboard or create a vignette of plants in a corner. 6. Succulents are great in the Kitchen. 7. Put statement plants in your main Living Areas – you want your guests to see the most beautiful plants in your home! 8. Put weather hardy plants in your Entry. They will be able to take the constant temperature changes of opening and closing your door.
Have you ever been out west – to Colorado, Wyoming, or Montana?
Do you remember how s p a c i o u s it was? You felt that you could breathe? Maybe your heart rate went down a bit? You can mimic that feeling in your home! When the weather is nice, throw open the doors to your back deck and open up your interior living area to include the outdoors. Decorate your deck with weather hardy plants, comfy furniture. The fresh air and sunlight will invigorate you even if you are indoors and your home will feel larger. Perfect for parties or game days. Or just spend serene solidarity away from the hustle of the work day.
Don’t let the word “biophilic” scare you into thinking it’s just too big a concept to incorporate into your home. Start small. Even the smallest changes, made with some thought, can make big changes to the feel of your home. Just take that first step and the next one will be easier!
Your Guide to Hosting the Ultimate Appetizers Party in Your New Home
Serve delicious finger foods for an inexpensive, low-stress alternative to a sit-down dinner with these easy appetizer ideas and clever hosting tips.
If you’re new to hosting, live in a small space, or simply want an easy weeknight entertaining idea, this hosting menu is for you. Serve guests a spread of hearty make-ahead appetizers that require minimal prep the day of (aka warmed in the oven or poured out of a bag) and can be enjoyed while sitting or standing thanks to their small shape. Stock up on nibbles like mini quiches, nuts, meats and cheeses, cut veggies, and pastries, then add a few touches to make them look special. Garnish drink glasses with fruit slices, drizzle hummus with olive oil and a dusting of paprika, and display everything on pretty dishes. Break out the seasonal dinnerware or wooden serving boards to make it feel like an event, and you’ve got yourself a party. We’ll answer hosting questions like how much food to buy and when to shop, plus give you ideas to recreate this concept at home.
Planning Your Appetizer Party Menu
To guarantee a diverse appetizer spread, serve a combination of easy appetizers that satisfy several of the following food categories:
Garden: Typically healthy appetizers made with fruit or vegetables (raw, cooked, or stuffed).
Starch: Hearty, starchy appetizer recipes, such as finger sandwiches, pizza, and dumplings, are all part of this family. Bruschetta, breadsticks, crackers, and rolls are also mainstays.
Protein: Serve meat or fish dishes, such as meatballs, chicken wings, or sushi, to give your guests protein. You could also make an egg, cheese, or tofu appetizer.
Snacks: Easy appetizers to prepare, the snack category includes nuts, chips, pretzels, popcorn, and other mostly savory finger foods.
Dips and Spreads: Pair foods from various appetizer categories with tapenades, relishes, and other party dips and spreads.
Desserts: Serve mini desserts such as cheesecake, candies, and cookies.
If your guests have dietary restrictions, consider making an assortment of appetizer recipes that cater to their needs. Having vegetarian appetizers or gluten-free appetizers, for instance, might be a priority if you are inviting vegetarians or people with gluten sensitivities. To easily identify special food categories, for example, place everything gluten-free on white serving dishes
How Many Appetizers Should You Serve?
The number of party appetizers you serve depends on the number of guests you invite. As your guest list increases, so should the appetizer selections.
Here’s a quick guide to how many appetizers you should serve at your party:
10-12 guests = 5 appetizer selections
25 guests = 9 appetizer selections
50 guests = 13 appetizer selections
How Many Appetizers per Person?
Running out of food and drink is a major bummer when you’re hosting a party. So we created this guide to answer your most common feeds-a-crowd questions, including, “How many chicken wings per person?” and “How many meatballs per person?” And we’re not talking about nutrition facts panel servings; this is the real deal of what a normal person eats as a heavy appetizer portion. Here are some amounts and recipe ideas for some of the most common party appetizers.
Jalapeño Poppers, Cheese Sticks, and Crostini
We’re lumping these diverse appetizer options together because the serving size is similar for items like mozzarella cheese Sticks, air-fryer jalapeño poppers, and sweet pea ricotta bruschetta. One is never enough of these savory snack recipes in our party hosting experience, so here’s how many appetizers per person to plan on:
One serving = 2 sticks
Party of 12 = 24 portions
Chicken Wings
Forget the forks and dole out the napkins for a finger-food favorite: chicken wings! Tender and saucy, chicken wings are a must-have appetizer, especially when you spice them nicely (as in our Tandoori chicken wings and Thai-inspired chicken wings recipes). But how many chicken wings per person will suffice for your soiree?
One serving = 3 wings
Party of 12 = 3 pounds
Dips and Spreads
No party buffet is complete without non-cheesy dips and spreads to please the dairy-free diners and those who prefer something with a few veggies in it. Hot or cold , sweet or savory, the options are nearly endless. Your spread solution:
One serving = ¼ cup
Party of 12 = 3 cups
Cheese and Charcuterie
Curious about how many ounces of cheese per person will suffice? If you’re pairing your cheese board with meats, you’ll need less Brie, cheddar, and Gruyère than you would if you’re serving the cheese solo. Either way, a couple ounces per person is a satisfying portion.
One serving = 2 ounces (1 ounce each of meat and cheese)
Party of 12 = 24 ounces of a mix of cheeses and meat
Cocktail Meatballs
Meatballs are so easy to prepare and can often be made ahead or held in a slow cooker until party time, as these molasses-lime meatballs and saucy apricot ‘n’ spiced meatballs prove. (So helpful if you’re serving a huge crowd and doing the math about how many frozen meatballs for 50 or more people!) Here’s how many meatballs per person you’ll need:
One serving = 4 meatballs
Party of 12 = 2 pounds
Fondue and Queso
Perfect for dunking, cheesy sauces and dips like creamy cheese fondue and skillet queso make your party buffet more interactive and delicious. Here’s how many ounces of cheese per person you’ll need to feed the dipping masses.
One serving = ¼ cup
Party of 12 = 3 cups
Nuts
Guests can’t resist a handful of flavor-packed, crunchy munch mixes. Noshing on nuts is a party idea that never goes stale, and it’s a terrific option that will please vegans, and gluten-free (depending on the recipe), Paleo and keto dieters all at once. Here’s how much you’ll need:
Prepare any foods that can be made ahead and frozen.
Finish any party decorations that can be created in advance.
A day or two before the party:
Prepare any appetizers that can be stored in the refrigerator.
Pull out serving dishes and utensils.
Purchase flowers or other perishables.
The day of the party:
Buy ice and chill beverages.
Finish last-minute appetizer recipes.
Set the table.
Food Safety Tip: Many party foods taste better when served around room temperature (not piping-hot or ice-cold). However, perishable appetizers should not stand at room temperature for longer than two hours. Switch out serving plates, or serve them in heated servers or bowls of ice to maintain appropriate temperatures.
One of our Move-in-Ready Homes would be perfect for your next Appetizers Only Party!
How to Increase Your Home’s Value
first published at McKeeHomes.com July 2022 – some edits have been made to update information We’ve been in a seller’s market for quite some time now, but that doesn’t mean that homeowners looking to unload their property are guaranteed a quick and easy sale. After all, the higher your home’s value, the more money you’ll walk away with to invest in your next home.
In order to get top dollar when you sell, you need to do everything you can to make it stand out from the competition. If you’re wondering how to increase your home value, these selling tips will help you get started.
Paint Or Replace Your Doors
Paint is one of the quickest and most inexpensive ways to update the look of your home both inside and out. And your front door is like a big welcome sign to potential buyers, so it’s worth taking the time to make sure it looks its best. If your door is looking a little worse for wear, consider giving it a fresh coat of paint in a trendy 2023 color. Upgrading your front door has an average return on investment of 74.9%.
Your garage doors should also be in good condition and should coordinate with the style of your home. If they aren’t, consider replacing them. The average ROI of new garage doors is a staggering 97.5%!
Add or Update Outdoor Lighting
Good outdoor lighting can make a huge difference in how your home looks, both day and night. It’s not just about curb appeal either. Outdoor lighting can also play a role in home security. If you don’t have outdoor lighting, now is the time to add it. And if you do, make sure it’s in good working order and up-to-date with the latest lighting trends.
Invest in Landscaping
A well-groomed lawn and some beautiful flowers can make a world of difference when it comes to curb appeal. If your yard is looking shabby, consider hiring a professional landscaper to help you spruce it up. You don’t have to go overboard, but a few well-placed bushes and some colorful flowers can make a big impression.
Just be sure to choose plants that are native to your area so they require minimal maintenance. If you already live in Tennessee, these plants are some of the best options.
Update Your Kitchen
The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, and it’s one of the most important rooms when it comes to selling. Outdated or in need of repair Kitchens should get a facelift before they are put on the market. Something as simple as new cabinet hardware makes a huge difference. If you have the budget, new appliances also help increase your home’s value.
Replace Your Carpet
Old, stained carpet is a turn-off for potential buyers. Start with a professional carpet cleaning to spruce up the look and smell of your home’s interior. If that doesn’t cut it, consider replacing your flooring.
You don’t have to go with the most expensive option, but be sure to choose a neutral style and color that will coordinate well with the rest of your home.
Affordable flooring options include:
Bamboo
Hardwood
Laminate
Tile
Vinyl
Concrete
There are pros and cons to each option, so be sure to do your research before making a decision. With so many DIY tutorials available online, you might even be able to install new flooring yourself and save some money in the process.
Clean, Declutter and Stage Your Home
Once you’ve made all the necessary updates and repairs, it’s time to start getting your home ready for showings. The first step is to do a deep clean from top to bottom. This means cleaning areas that you normally wouldn’t think twice about:
Baseboards
Light fixtures
Ceiling fans
Windows
Blinds
Cabinet doors
Walls
And don’t forget to declutter! Buyers want to visualize their own belongings in your home, so minimize countertop, shelf, and surface clutter as much as possible.
If you have the time and money, you might also want to invest in hiring a professional stager. A good stager will be able to transform your home into a showplace that is sure to impress potential buyers.
Finally, it’s important to get rid of personal touches like family photos. You want buyers to be able to see themselves living in your home, not you.
Before you put your home on the market, take a good hard look at your curb appeal. First impressions matter, so if potential buyers see an unkempt yard or chipped paint, they may not even want to come inside.
By taking the time to make some strategic updates, you can make your home look more inviting and maximize your ROI and sell your home quickly – without breaking the bank.
Ready to find your future home? Core Homes has new construction homes available in some of the best locations across Hamilton County. With a wide variety of floor plans and tons of personalization options, we can help you find the perfect home for your needs. Contact our team today!
Core Homes Community Updates – December 2022
We had an exciting and busy year in our communities this year! Here is an end-of-year wrap-up for each of our neighborhoods.
Lake Breeze
Wow! What a year for us in the Harrison community of Lake Breeze! We are down to our last available home in Phase II. The beautiful, movie-in-ready home sits on top of a hill overlooking Phase III. It also has a large, flat backyard ready for play dates and BBQ’s. Down the road, Phase III got off to a bang in early 2022 and we now have 15 new homes in all stages of construction. All are available to purchase with lender incentives available to qualifying home buyers. Then – in July – the good folks at St Jude approached us to be the Chattanooga St Jude Dream Home builder! What an honor! The 2023 Dream Home is nearly half-way completed on homesite #124. We can’t wait to invite everyone to tour the home in May and June.
Hawks Landing
What a jewel of a community! We sold out of ALL our Core Homes in Phase III in one year. Plans are in the making for launching Phase IV with larger home sites – some big enough for 3 car garages – in 2023. Stay tuned to HomeLifebyCore.com for the latest information. Preliminary plat map should be coming soon!
River Breeze – Core’s Signature Community
Core’s coastal inspired luxury community sits on the Tennessee River in Soddy-Daisy. Four Design Curated interior site homes are under construction and will be completed in early 2023. Just two more interior homesites are available for semi-custom builds. One bluff side Designer Curated available home will be complete by the new year. Five more bluff-side homesites remain available as of December. All homes have a dedicated boat slip on the private community dock. Summer will be hear before you know it – imagine experiencing the river life every day!
Coming New in 2023
Wind River The long anticipated community will be available for sale in 2023! Great amenities, large wood-tracts, secluded, private location, and private boat docks/slips will make Wind River a “destination” community. Announcements for Wind River will be coming mid-2023.
Other Communities We have other communities in the planning stages in new areas of the Chattanooga Metro Area (look out Bradley Co, here we come!) Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see announcements of all new developments.
We are looking forward to 2023 as we grow right along with Chattanooga!
Most Popular Core Home Plans for 2022
As the Christmas season is fully upon us, we – like other folks and companies – are taking a breath and looking back at 2022. It was quite the roller coaster ride for everyone – especially for those of us in the homebuilding industry! What did we accomplish? How did we grow? And what do we want to improve on in 2023?
So – what were the most popular Core home plans in 2022?
Below are the top three, determined by which plan home buyers chose the most. And the winners are…
The Willow 3 bedrooms 3.5 baths 2,702 sq ft Oversized Formal Dining and Breakfast Rooms, Flex Space, Bonus Room, Large Porches on front and rear If your home tends to be the “destination” of friends and family vacations to our Scenic City or all of the kids are still at home and desperately need their own spaces – The Willow home plan beautifully serves as the heart and hub of your life. The Willow plan was developed specifically for the Hawks Landing community. Look for it to be a home buyer favorite when we open Hawk’s Landing Phase IV in 2023.
The Foxglove 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths 2,716 sq ft Open Concept, Large Bonus Room, Walk-In-Closets So much space – so many possibilities for a personalized, unique living space. Upstairs in the more private spaces or down in the hustle and bustle of the main living area – The Foxglove home plan lets you “breathe” no matter where you are in your home. The classically appealing Foxglove plan can be built in Hawks Landing in Apison or Lake Breeze in Harrison. Since both of those communities have new phase either now selling or planned in the future, we’ll be seeing a lot more of The Foxglove!
The Victoria 3 bedrooms 3.5 baths 2,652 sq ft Open Concept Main Living Area, Bonus Room, Home Office/Flex Space The grand dame of Core Homes’ home plans! This is an original! If comfortable chic is your style – you need to take a look at The Victoria home plan. The Victoria is currently being built on Lost Lake home site #37 with a third car garage. It’s also being built on Lake Breeze home site #133. Both homes are available to purchase!
These are just three of the three dozen home plans available at Core Homes. Take a look at all of the plans we offer, and we’re sure you’ll find one that fits your dreams perfectly!
Pros and Cons was originally published by our home building friends at McKee Homes, North Carolina
BUYING NEW VS. USED
If a big move is on the horizon for you and your family, then you may be debating whether to buy an existing home or new construction. It can be a tough decision. There are pros and cons to both options, and it ultimately comes down to what is important to you. Here is a look at some of the key factors to consider when making this decision.
The Pros and Cons of Buying a New Home
Without sounding too biased, there are quite a few advantages that come with buying new construction. And, in our opinion, they outweigh the cons.
Yes, building your own home can sometimes be more costly than buying pre-owned, and you may have to wait 4-8 months to move in (unless you buy a quick move-in home). But, new construction offers benefits that you simply can’t find in an existing home.
First, you’ll get to personalize your home to your exact needs and desires. From the finishes and fixtures, to the size, layout, color and more… There’s so much to choose when you build new.
Plus, a new home is just that – new. Which means there’s no need for repairs or renovations either (at least not for many years).
They’re also built with the latest energy-efficient technology and better construction materials, which can save you a ton of money on your utility bills. From the windows, doors and appliances, to the plumbing, electrical and HVAC system.
Everything is designed with energy savings in mind.
New homes are often built in new communities with state-of-the-art amenities like playgrounds, fitness centers, and walking trails. So, if an active lifestyle is important to you and your family, then new construction may be the way to go.
And finally, when you buy new construction, you’re also buying peace of mind. Your new house will have a warranty from the builder. So if something does go wrong, you’re covered.
Like we mentioned, the main downside is that they can be more expensive than existing homes and you can’t always move in right away. But, when you factor in all of the advantages, we think you’ll agree that new construction homes are worth the investment.
The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Home
Now we wouldn’t be giving you a fair overview of the situation if we didn’t also mention the pros and cons of buying a pre-owned home.
The biggest advantage, of course, is that they’re typically less expensive than new construction. You may be able to find a fixer-upper for a fantastic deal. But, it’s important to remember that those low prices often come with the need for expensive repairs.
While existing homes may have some of the features and amenities that you’re looking for, they might not have all of them. You may have to do some serious renovations to get the home of your dreams — or even just to get everything functioning in a way that meets modern demand.
For example, plumbing and electrical systems in older homes are often not up to code. All will need to be replaced or retrofitted to meet current standards. That can cost many thousands of dollars.
Older homes also tend to be less energy-efficient than new houses, which means you’ll end up spending a lot more on your utility bills each month.
The bottom line is that there are pros and cons to both new construction and pre-owned homes. It really comes down to what’s most important to you and your family.
Which Option is Right for You
Weighing your options is smart shopping, but in the end, you have to go with your gut.
If you’re looking for a home that’s move-in ready and offers all of the features, finishes, and amenities that you desire, then new construction is probably the way to go.
On the other hand, if you don’t mind doing a little work to get the home of your dreams and you’re not as concerned about having all of the bells and whistles, then an existing home might be a better option for you.
We suggest asking yourself these questions:
How much can I afford to spend?
How quickly do I need to move?
What features and amenities are most important to me and my family?
Do I have the budget and time to improve the house after I move in?
Once you have your answers, you’ll be one step closer to finding the right home for your needs.
What to Look For When Buying a Home
As a practical matter, you’ll want to pay attention to a few key things regardless of whether you’re buying new construction or an existing home:
Location: It’s important to find a neighborhood that you feel comfortable with and is convenient for your lifestyle.
Size: Make sure the house can comfortably accommodate your family currently, and in the future as your lifestyle and needs change.
Budget: In addition to the purchase price, don’t forget to factor in the cost of any necessary repairs or renovations, plus the monthly expenses that come with owning a home.
Warranty: If you’re buying new construction, ask about the builder’s warranty. If you’re buying an existing home, get a home warranty to protect yourself from expensive repairs.
If you’re considering building a home in Chattanooga, we encourage you to check out our Floor Plans. We build new construction homes across Hamilton County. We design our homes with families in mind. Core Homes come complete with all of the features and amenities that you expect from a new home. Contact our team today to start your homebuilding journey!
Maintenance Manual for New Home Owners from PWSC
Who or what is PWSC?
PWSC is the Professional Warranty Service Corporation and is Core Homes’ warranty administrator for all our new construction homes. For nearly 30 years, PWSC has served as a nationally recognized administration leader in the home building industry. Their warranties protect more than 1.7 million homes across the nation.
You shouldn’t ignore or take shortcuts when it comes to maintaining what is probably your single biggest investment and the thing that shelters and protects your family. Even if you are not a Core Homes home owner, download this manual and use it as a tool to keep your home looking great and functioning for many years.
The PWSC manual includes the following:
• Tips for moving into your new home • Regular maintenance schedules to keep big issues at bay • Signs to look for to help identify and fix common home concerns • Charts to track maintenance and repairs • Tips on understanding your PWSC (for Core Homes home owners) home warranty and how to use the policy.
If you aren’t a Core Homes home owner, visit our available homes page on our website for new homes available in all stages of construction. If you would like to build from the ground up – visit our home plan page to search through nearly 3 dozen home plans. One will certainly fit your wants and needs for a fresh, new home!
You love your new Core Home. We and PWSC do too!
20 Kitchen Organization Ideas To Maximize Storage Space Discover genius kitchen storage ideas
Temps are finally cooling a bit and thoughts are turning to pumpkin spice and cozy nights by the fireplace. Since you will be spending more time in your home, it’s time to spend some thought on optimizing your kitchen spaces. We found 20 great ideas from our friends at Architectural Digest.
Written by Elizabeth Stamp and Kristi Kellogg, Architectural Digest. Originally published May 19, 2020
Get your kitchen cabinets and countertops decluttered once and for all with these smart and easy kitchen organization ideas. If it feels like you never have enough storage in the kitchen despite tons of drawers and cabinets, it may come down to how you’re storing things. All the storage space in the world won’t help if the items inside of it are totally disorganized.
Discover the best kitchen storage organization ideas that will help you make the most of your storage space and even create more. Try out these genius tricks to corral clutter and store cooking essentials to make your kitchen more functional and less chaotic.
1. Toss and consolidate First things first: throw out everything that’s well past its expiration date, dirty, or stale. Do a deep clean of your refrigerator and cabinets (including the one under the sink).
2. Store utensils in a cutlery tray You separate your forks, knives, and spoons, so why not your cooking utensils? Store spoons, spatulas, and whisks in separate containers so you never have to dig through a tangle of tools to find the right one.
3. Install hooks to hang mugs Mugs are essential for morning coffee, but they take up shelf space and don’t stack well. A simple solution is to install hooks under a shelf or cabinet and hang mugs by their handles.
4. Get a cutting board that fits over your sink Counter space is always at a premium, but there’s an easy fix: Get a cutting board that fits over the sink to create an extra space for chopping. Many have built-in colanders to help make prep a breeze.
5. Decant bulk items Get organized with plastic bins or large glass jars. Decant bulk items into containers to keep ingredients neat and visible.
6. Add extra storage space to the side of your fridge Besides being very, very easy to install (just…stick it there), a magnetic shelf is also, of course, removable.
7. Install a pot rack Take advantage of vertical space by adding a pot rack to help store all those pans sitting on the stove or taking up space in your cabinets. If you have low ceilings, consider installing it over the kitchen sink.
8. Add dividers for lids, baking sheets, and pans If there’s always a loud clattering or an avalanche of lids whenever you open the cabinet door, it’s time to organize those pots and pans. Install a few pan dividers and stack pots and lids within the cabinet. You can also organize baking sheets and pans by placing the dividers perpendicular to the shelf.
9. Use risers to get more storage in each shelf Take advantage of that empty vertical space by placing risers in cabinets. This will help keep items separated so you don’t have to try to pick something out of the middle of a huge stack.
10. Get a drawer spice rack All you need is a super-shallow drawer—and these perfectly ridged spice storage inserts from IKEA—and poof! You’ll never lose sight of your spices again. As a bonus, it fits those standard-size spice jars from the grocery, so no need to put them all in new containers.
11. Hang your stemware This bartender’s solution keeps your stemware stored in style. You can hang it underneath a cabinet and showcase your wine glasses, or you can tuck it away inside for hidden storage.
12. Mount your dish rack Spare what little prep area you have on the counter by adding a shelf above the sink for air-drying—even better if it’s actually a designated dish rack that props them upright.
13. Add a magnetic knife bar This is a great alternative to a knife block, and another solution that saves counter space.
14. Bring in baskets and bins If you can’t keep things out of sight, at least keep them organized. Invest in some pretty baskets and containers to keep items on the counter uncluttered.
15. Make use of cabinet doors The inside of your cabinet doors is filled with storage possibilities. Install hooks to store pans, lids, or serving and measuring spoons, or add a slim rack to stash pot lids or boxes of foil and plastic wrap. Sure, you might have to inch back the contents of your cabinets just slightly, but you’ll be happy to do it when you open the door and see this supremely organized situation.
16. Add rolling shelves The downside of deep cabinets is having to practically climb in to get what you need from the back. Install rolling shelves with low sides to keep items organized and easily accessible.
17. Put a miniature lazy Susan inside a kitchen cabinet Add a small-scale lazy Susan to the inside your kitchen cabinets. You can use it to corral spices and oils, or add it below the sink to store cleaning products.
18. Upgrade your fruit basket This three-tiered fruit basket hangs from your ceiling—leaving you valuable counter space below. Plus, when the fruit is suspended, it gets more air circulation to help it ripe.
19. Line your shelves Kitchen organization ideas aren’t just about creating more storage space—you also have to consider how to make the space fuss-free and easy to keep clean. Enter shelf liners. In addition to protecting your cabinet shelves, they can also brighten up the space. Shelf liners come in just about every color and pattern you can imagine, and are available in adhesive and non-adhesive styles.
20. Designate a place for everything, including your empty bags Bags have a way of accumulating in various drawers and cupboards. Designate a bin or container just for those errant bags. You can even repurpose an old coffee canister. Cut a slit in the lid and you easily pull out the bags one at a time (and you can take the rest of your adhesive contact paper and cover the can to give it a refresh.
Many of Core Home’s home plans feature walk in pantries – great for storing large appliances out of sight! Check out our home plans at HomeLifebyCore.com while you are enjoying your warm pumpkin spice latte!
Why Do New Home Builders Want You to Use Their Lender?
If you have spent any significant time researching new home construction options and new home builders, you’ve discovered most builders have a “Preferred Lender” listed on their website. Why do builders and lenders form these “preferred” partnerships? Are there nefarious back room deal makings going on? No, absolutely not. There are two main reasons builders will partner with a mortgage lender – and both give advantages and buying power to the home buyer.
First – most mortgage lenders have new construction programs that offer a percentage or flat rate towards lowering the mortgage loan amount or closing costs. Different lenders offer different incentives to use them. Secondly – over the course of the partnership the builder learns the lender’s processes and the lender learns the builder’s. There are no surprise bumps or procedures securing the mortgage loan and ultimately the closing goes much smoother and efficiently. Less stress on all parties!
Core Homes is happy to announce we have entered into a Preferred Lender partnership with FirstBank Mortgage!
Recently, Core Homes entered into a partnership with FirstBank. We have done business with FirstBank for several years and we are excited to work with them as a Preferred Lender. We sat down with Rodney Long, our Mortgage Banker, to ask him some questions about what FirstBank Mortgage is now offering Core Homes home buyers.
Please introduce yourself. How long have you been in mortgage lending? What do you like to do in your down time? My Name is Rodney Long and am currently working with FirstBank Mortgage. I have been blessed with the opportunity to assist families with their mortgage needs for 23 years. In my spare time, me and my family enjoy walking our dogs, kayaking, riding our bikes along the Tennessee River, and family game night.
What is the mortgage outlook right now, considering the Fed’s increase in interest rates? The purchase of a home is a great way to secure future wealth through equity of owning a home. Today’s interest rates impact a family’s buying power. In a rising rate environment it is more important to put together a sound mortgage plan for future success. FirstBank can tailor a plan that meets their current need and stability to meet long term goals.
What information should a potential home buyer bring with them when they talk with you? In order to complete a mortgage loan in a timely manner, I need the borrower’s driver’s license, most recent pay stub, and W-2. If they are self-employed then two years of their most recent tax returns.
Is now a good time to buy or build a new home? Today is a great time to buy a home while housing prices are still affordable. Chattanooga home prices are still 22% lower than the market average. Families should buy today and take advantage of the equity appreciation in their new home.
In your experience, what are people most afraid of or perhaps, have the greatest misconception about mortgages? I think the misconception of buying a new home is that it requires a large down payment. FirstBank has a wide array of mortgage products that require as little as 3% down and nothing for Veterans. Contact me to see what products fit your needs. We have an online application to get you started.
What should a person looking to buy or build a new home do right now, today? I your are thinking of buying or building your forever home, I recommend the buyer(s) sit down with a FirstBank Mortgage Professional to start building a successful mortgage plan.
Last question: Why is FirstBank a good choice for Core Homes buyers for a mortgage loan? FirstBank is one of the top mortgage lenders in our area. We are a personable, local community bank that can meet in person or we are able to utilize the most up-to-date technology to make the lending process seamless from start to finish. We offer Conventional, FHA, USDA, THDA, and VA loans to those deserving Veterans. And for Core Homes home buyers, we are offering a Lender Credit of 1% of the loan amount at closing up to a maximum of $5,000. This credit can be used to lower the interest rate on the loan, or can apply towards closing costs. This can represent a significant savings to the Core Homes buyer.
Core Homes has Available Homes in all Stages of Construction We have available homes in Apison, Harrison, and Ooltewah and Soddy Daisy. From just at foundation to nearly complete! Give Kadi or Dell a call and discuss which Core Community is for you!
Keeping it Local: The Chattanooga Cookie Company
What do you get when you combine two sweet and spicy, maybe a little nutty, sisters with a passion for baking and a knack for entrepreneurship? The newly opened and already wildly popular Chattanooga Cookie bake shop! Two enterprising ladies – and twins – Jessica and Megan opened their cookie shop not even a month ago and they are already expanding their cookie flavor offerings. Walk into the bright teal and white bakery on Cherokee Blvd (right next to Chipotle) and you are greeted by a sunny, outgoing team member offering samples of each cookie flavor.
Each week has a theme, so one week you might hear Disney tunes, and one another week 80’s hits, or a Broadway soundtrack will be drifting through the air mingling with the intoxicating smell of cookies baking! In their own words, “It’s like a rainbow exploded in your mouth and hugged your soul. We don’t have time for the ordinary. Our standards begin at extraordinary. We’re baking bold and distinctive cookies for you, whether you’re a seasoned sweets connoisseur or the occasional cheat-day indulger.” Jessica says, “There’s a science to flavor. And we’ve perfected it. Every ingredient is meticulously considered and carefully combined in recipes that allow each component to shine. Our flavors are aggressive and unapologetic. Just like us. #sorrynotsorry Megan adds, “We combine confident and defined flavors to give you a cookie that shatters expectations and sets a new standard for this often-overlooked, underdog dessert.”
Current cookie flavors are:
Three Chip Chocolate Chip – 3, count them, 3 types of chips in one cookie!
Chocolate Extreme – Because 3 different chips aren’t enough, just put them in a brownie!
French Vanilla Sugar Cookie – a classic cookie elevated to the next level.
Brown Butter Snickerdoodle– you haven’t had a Snickerdoodle until you’ve had this one!
Peanut Butter White Chocolate – not your grandmother’s peanut butter cookie!
Chocolate Chip-less – ok, stay with us on this one. If you like the cookie dough, but not the chips. This cookie is for you – beautiful in it’s simplicity.
Coming Later This Year White Chocolate Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup – OK,that might not be the name of the cookie, but that is what it tastes like!
Pumpkin Spice – of course! A Fall staple!
Extreme Chocolate with Mint Chips – just in time for the holidays. We’ve had a sneak taste of this confection and it’s delightful!
Core Homes has tapped the Chattanooga Cookie Company as the “official cookie” for all six of the 2023 Open House Weekends for the St JudeDream Home.
Open House weekends will start in May and continue for two additional weekends in June.
But don’t wait until May to try Megan and Jessica’s masterpieces, head on down to 20 Cherokee Blvd, Suite 124 and grab you one… or twelve! Store hours are Mon-Sat 8am-8pm and Sunday 10am – 6pm.
A little separation and privacy help keep the peace, and that has never been more true than in the post-Covid age where more people are working from home. Typically some of the first rooms to go when people are looking to downsize are the formal living or dining rooms, but those are some prime spaces that could be used for a home office. Another way to add workspace separation without interrupting the open concept or drastically increasing a home’s size is to repurpose primary closets to provide a dual function as a closet and homework location. Clients have raved about how well this dual-purpose space works for their home-life balance. MARCUS JONES, MAGNOLIA DEVELOPMENTS, LLC
pocket office space
It is important to have a separate workspace that is efficient and allows privacy but doesn’t take away from living spaces. A pocket office is a great idea and is a smaller space that gives proper room for work but does not have unnecessary wasted space. Natural light in the form of windows always lifts the spirits while working A glass entry door to dress up the space is a nice touch, but it also motivates you to keep the space decluttered since it is visible from the outside. A clean, decluttered workspace is an efficient workspace. When it’s time to shut work down and take care of yourself and your loved ones, you can put work out of sight and out of mind! LARRY WALDREP, WALDREP CONSTRUCTION, LLC
flexible spaces
Creating flexible spaces is much easier with new construction, and one of the first things I typically do is group spaces by whether they are public or private. The first step in making an office space that works for you is to decide where you want your office to fall on that continuum. Do you want complete privacy and to be able to focus and immerse yourself in your work? Then placing your office deep into the private zone will probably work best. By contrast, if access to family and shared resources is more important, designing a space in an off-shoot or alcove of a public area is best. You can also create a more transitional workspace by placing it on the periphery of either a public or private zone. It all starts with deciding where an office space should be placed based on how it is used. JAY CAUGHMAN – CAUGHMAN + CAUGHMAN ARCHITECTS
small office on the main
When it comes to creating a home office that allows for focus time but is still near the hustle and bustle of family life, location makes a huge difference. Try placing a small office on the main floor near your home’s entryway. This way you are not far from the main living spaces, but there is often enough separation to provide an extra layer of quiet. This is also great for people who have a home office where clients come in for in-person meetings. Answering the door or running to the kitchen for a glass of water or cup of coffee is easy, but at the same time, your guests are not being asked to traverse through more intimate spaces of your home. DEXTER WHITE, DEXTER W WHITE CONSTRUCTION
Several of Core Home’s floor plans already have a study or home office space in their layout. Most plans have rooms or spaces that can be easily converted to an office space. Look through are large library of home plans and we’re sure there is one that will fit your “new” normal wonderfully! Remember, Core Homes is Chattanooga’s New Home Builder. We want you to have a Home & Life – Well Lived.
Core Homes has been selected as the 2023 St. Jude Dream Home® Builder!
Core Homes is excited and honored to announce that we have been selected as the 2023 St. Jude Dream Home® builder!
Plans are already underway for the Dream Home in our Lake Breeze community in Harrison, TN. By this time next year someone in the Chattanooga area will be living in their new St Jude Dream Home®! It takes many, many partners and sponsors to make this project a success. We are looking forward to working with all of them – from the cookie makers to the lumber suppliers!
Soon we will have a St. Jude Dream Home page on our website. We’ll have updates on the build, the groundbreaking in September, a floor signing event in the Spring, open house events in May and June, and of course, links to purchase tickets for a chance to win the Dream Home! So check back often to see the latest news.
The St. Jude Dream Home® Giveaway is a community service project that everyone can get behind and support. The program involves selling a limited number of $100 chances to win a brand new, single-family home. Each home has a market value in the range of $300,000 to $700,000, and is built largely with generous donations of land, labor and materials. Every ticket helps ensure families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food — because all they should worry about is helping their child live. We won’t stop until no child dies from cancer.
What fills a home? Hope, love, dedication – all of those things and more fill the halls of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. You’re helping support St. Jude patients and their families when you reserve a St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway ticket. You could win a home. You will make a difference.
Keeping it Local – Drift Dog Outfitters – Find Your Drift
This month we highlight our good friends Ben, Meg, and Banjo at Drift Dog Outfitters. We have had lots of fun on photoshoots at the river with this crew! Ben is the son of renowned local artist, Alan Shuptrine who’s art pieces hang in the Core Homes Design Center. Drift Dog originally started as an outdoor apparel company but have expanded to include items for the canine companion in your life. The below article is taken from their website: www.driftdog.com
Who is Drift Dog?
Drift Dog is an outdoor apparel company for men and women who love the word “outside”. We specialize in creating apparel that is durable, comfortable, and affordable to meet everyone’s wants and needs.
The story goes like this…
Growing up with a passion for graphic design and the outdoors it was hard for Meg & Ben Shuptrine to resist. On July 20th, 2020 the recently married couple decide to take a leap of faith, and follow a past dream. The dream of starting an outdoor apparel company came alive. Drift Dog was created. A drift boat which traveled the United States and finally landed in the hands of the right person might have started the catchy two syllable name, but the Drift Dog became something bigger…
Let’s Meet the Team
Ben Shuptrine: Founder & Designer
Founder, graphic designer, and apparel designer. A design degree and a minor in entrepreneurship gives Ben the focus he needs to push Drift Dog to the next level. “As a lover of the outdoors I feel we are always chasing something. A view on top of a mountain, or that one fish that changes your life. We think we know what’s ahead of us, but don’t. That’s the beauty of it. That’s the meaning of finding your drift…my chase is Drift Dog”
Meg Shuptrine: Co- Founder & Marketing Director
Understanding the fashion behind a brand is key for an apparel company. Meg deals with day to day social media advertising as well as creating the looks for the women’s line. She not only is the other voice of the company, but the photographer. Meg has a love for being behind the lens to give people what they truly want; professional photography.
And – Banjo – the Drift Dog himself!
Here is Boomer (looking at the camera – what a ham!) enjoying cooling off on the river bank at the River Breeze community dock with the one and only, Banjo – Drift Dog extraordinaire.
Ranger Outdoors LLC. In January 2021 the Ranger Outdoors LLC team brought Drift Dog as a team member. The four outdoor brands together create a versatile and functioning business like no other. It takes a team.
10 Creative Flex Room Ideas
You may have heard the term “flex room” before but may feel a little confused about what it actually means. What is a flex room, exactly? In short, it’s a space that can fulfill multiple needs. But the beauty of a true flex space is that even those purposes can change and grow over time. What is your nursery today can be your office space tomorrow. And if your job needs change, then perhaps your office can then be your music room. And if your hobbies change, maybe you can consider a library. If mom wants to come for a short-term visit, then the space can also be repurposed as a guest room. Flex room basics involve you being in touch with your space needs and what works best for you. For some helpful hints to guide you in the right direction, here are 10 creative and useful ideas that can help you create a flex space that suits your needs.
Creative Flex Room #1 – Your Home Office
In this sudden work-from-home era, perhaps the most common and practical use of flex space is the home office. Keep in mind that the term flex “room” doesn’t necessarily need to refer to a dedicated room. For many people, space is limited, and it’s necessary to craft flex space out of a room that doesn’t exist, by turning a nook, a corner or even a section of wall into a “room.” Your home office may simply be a dedicated space that you use to do your work. However, out of all the flex spaces, this is one where you might want more privacy to be able to work, video conference and make phone calls, so section it off as best you can with dividers, potted plants, furniture or shelving. If you plan to spend a good deal of time in your office, make sure you invest in comfortable chairs and aesthetics you feel are conducive to getting work done. If you have an extra room, using it as a home office is a worthwhile idea, instead of trying to position yourself in a type of open-air style.
Creative Flex Room #2 – Playroom or Study Area
If you have children or are planning to have children, create a flex space for kids. It’s likely that the nursery will become their bedroom, so having a place for them to play and learn as they grow is an optimal use for a flex space. When they’re younger, a playroom works well for honing skills, and many of these skills go beyond playing with toys. Envision a room with a small, indoor trampoline, bouncy balls and other things that enhance gross and fine motor skills. As kids age, this room can become a study area. Plan for flexing the room as they grow by having an open design playroom, which is more equipment-based than toy or furniture based. When it’s time to switch it to a study area, swapping in some light furniture, such as desks and chairs is no problem. Kids can help you pick which designs they’d like to keep or discard.
Creative Flex Room #3 – Flex for the Holidays
One of the better things about having flex spaces is the ability to blend flex spaces for the holiday. If you have multiple living rooms, you can blend these rooms together for an overall holiday feel. If you find your main living space too crowded with the Christmas tree or other holiday decorations, move it to the secondary living room, which gives you more space for celebrating with family. It also gives you more space around the tree to add special accents. Maybe this is the year for a Christmas train around the tree, or perhaps you can deck that entire room out in holiday spirit. Having a flex room around the holidays definitely has its perks. Another idea for a flex room around the holidays is making room for any visiting guests that may be coming. Before making a permanent purchase for a short-term need, consider renting your furniture. It’s a great, low cost, way to try out new furniture pieces and trends that you may want to incorporate throughout your home later on in the year.
Creative Flex Room #4 – Art or Music Studio
Whether it’s part of your career or it’s something you enjoy doing as a hobby, turning a flex room into an art or music studio is a terrific idea. Again, you don’t need an entire room, just a corner or nook to call your own. Set up an easel or sketchpad and chair and hone your craft. Or, you may find a pleasant corner by a window is a great place to create music and set up a guitar amp and a boom mic. If you’re thinking of dedicating an entire room, you can always consider soundproofing the walls for a music room, or creating a miniature art studio that’s all your own. Chalkboard-painted walls and other accents can add a personalized touch.
Creative Flex Room #5 – A Guest Room
Having a guest room is one of the perfect flex ideas because, when it’s not in use, there are so many other ideas to choose from. You can also have a guest room be an art studio, office, sewing room or one of many other different ideas. A room that has an extra bed is ideal for when family comes to visit — or maybe for just taking an afternoon nap. What’s best about a guest room is the fact that there are so many ideas for multipurpose use. Set up as a guest room, in case someone does drop in suddenly, but also use it for other things, such as storage, sewing, music, study or art. Make sure that your guest room is outfitted with all the necessities, such as fresh sheets and blankets, towels, a full-length mirror, alarm clock, tissues and toiletry basics.
Creative Flex Room #6 – Bar or Lounge Area
In a post-COVID world, having your own bar or lounge area really isn’t a bad idea at all. If you don’t imbibe, this idea can translate to a host of other ideas: Make this corner, nook or room a coffee nook, game room or entertainment center. Or, the space can be so flexible that you can enjoy your coffee in the morning and beers can flow for Monday Night Football on a large-screen TV. It’s your space, so you have full control over what to do with it. Of course, this space works best against a wall, so you can build your bar, whether you’re setting up wells for liquor, or espresso machines for coffee. Seating doesn’t have to be too complicated; several barstools work well against a small island or counter seating. If you have the room, lounge furniture offers a more comfortable atmosphere than typical bar seating. Depending on the type of setting you want to create, consider adding a pool table, darts or room for a buffet table if you want to hold get-togethers.
Creative Flex Room #7 – Storage Solutions
If you’re like many people, over time you’ve accumulated a lot of stuff. While decluttering is big these days, there are some things you can’t get rid of, like your childhood keepsakes, holiday decorations or summer/winter clothes as you store them for a season. If you find that you don’t have room to store these in the basement, garage or other area of the house, perhaps your best flex idea is to have a storage room. This is a tough one, because you don’t want to walk in and immediately think, “ugh” when you see a row of boxes. To set up a storage room, find shelving that works for you and bins or other storage components that you like and meet your needs. Storage as decor (such as storage furniture) is also an option, depending on the number of items you need to store. Label everything, and set things up in a back-to-front manner. For example, you want your storage to be set up so that the next thing you need is in front. If those are window A/C units and your summer clothes, those should be in front, not in back. This way, you’re not digging through boxes every time you enter. Also, if there’s enough room, try to multipurpose part of the room if possible. Perhaps one corner can be a “second office” when the first office space isn’t available. This also helps you want to create order within this space, and not chaos.
Creative Flex Room #8 – Pet Playroom
There’s nothing cuter than a doggie or kitty playroom, and sometimes this can be a necessity if guests come over who are allergic to pet hair or your pet doesn’t do well with strangers or with young children. But don’t think of it as an isolation room — this should be a fun room that’s used often by your pet for play or comfort. For puppies, or even for kittens, this can also be a good, dedicated spot for the pet that isn’t housebroken yet. As they get older, set up the room with dog or cat beds, cat trees, toys and other fun items that your pet will enjoy.
Creative Flex Room #9 – Fitness Center
A home fitness center is another optimal choice in a post-COVID world. Not only does a home gym give you a place to work out where you don’t have to worry about wearing a mask, it offers you the flexibility to work out whenever you want. This is another type of flex room that doesn’t require a dedicated room .|If you’re only setting up one or two fitness machines, you can grab a corner of the house, or even the basement, and start exercising. If you have the space, add a few machines, including equipment for the kids, such as trampolines to get the whole family involved in getting fit. Think of adding weight balls, yoga mats and other equipment beyond fitness machines.
Creative Flex Room #10 – Reading Nook or Library
Many people like to grab a book and enjoy it in their favorite chair, but there’s also something about having a reading nook or library space that’s perfect for the book lover. This could be a coffee corner or reading nook. If you have a picture window or a nook where you’d like to improve the design, this is a wonderful idea. Adding bookcases or book shelving on either side with a built-in futon makes the ideal space. Add a touch of home remodeling or simply add several bookcases and a chaise or lounge to a corner of a room. Or, dedicate an entire room as your library. This is another flex idea that could be multi-purposed, should you want to add a coffee bar or other embellishment to the library.
Have a look at all of Core Homes’ home plans while you strategize on how your new flex space will work for you. Here are even more ideas for transforming your flex space..
New Home Move Up Buyer Guide
If you already own a home, condo or townhome and are considering selling and buying something newer, bigger, better for whatever reason, this move-up buyer guide is for you.
How do you know if you are a move-up buyer?
Are you relocating and looking to find a home with features you didn’t get in your first home?
Do you have a growing family and need more room, a larger yard, a better location?
Are you tired of making constant repairs on your existing home and want to buy a new home with new systems and appliances?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you would be considered a move-up buyer. These are just a few of the reasons people decide to buy a new home, so whatever the reason, check out this move-up buyer guide and use it as a roadmap for a smooth transition to your next home.
Getting Started
Which comes first, buying or selling?
If you can afford to buy a new home before selling your current home, that is usually the best approach. You won’t have much leverage when buying a new home if the sale is contingent on the sale of your current home. One determining factor in making that decision would be how quickly homes are selling in your neighborhood. If they are only staying on the market for a few days or weeks, you could be confident in buying you next home first. However, if you live in an area where homes are taking 60-90 days or more to sell, you may need to consider selling first or finding a service such as Zillow Offers to buy your current home. With Zillow Offers, you don’t have to do repairs or painting of your home to sell it. You can even pick the closing and move-out date to fit into your schedule.
We’re obsessed with Trader Joe’s (OK, but who isn’t?). For years the rumor that Chattanooga was going to get a Trader Joe’s seemed like just a wish. But now we can partake in the delicious offerings of this wildly popular grocery store.
While the folks of the grocery chain release an annual list of customer-favorite items, we decided to compile a list of. items folks can’t live without. Of course, Everything Bagel Seasoning made the list, but there are plenty of items (and even a beauty product) that might convince you to give them a try on your next grocery shopping trip.
1. Soy Chorizo – This veggie chorizo makes it easy to skip the meat. Sauté it with onions, potatoes (or sweet potatoes), and black beans as a vegan dinner base for tacos or burrito bowls.
2. Hatch Chile Mac and Cheese – If you’re working from home right now, hearty options like this elevated frozen macaroni and cheese help you actually take a delicious lunch break.
3. Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend – This little jar of seasoning has quite the fan club these days, and we’re definitely a part of that club. Sprinkle it on egg whites to spice up a healthy breakfast or use it to make a savory at-home avocado toast.
4. Happy Trekking Trail Mix – The amazing selection of nuts and dried fruits include some of Trader Joe’s best finds. Perfect for on-the-go or at the office.
5. Gluten-Free Brioche Bread – When you have to follow a gluten-free diet Trader Joe’s brioche is a delight. The slices are pretty petite, but they’re the right amount of density to make a perfect grilled cheese.
6. Burrata Cheese – If you’ve had the pleasure of enjoying burrata cheese, you’ll know it’s often quite pricey. Thankfully the price point at Trader Joe’s allows Chihak to always grab a container at Trader Joe’s without spending so much.
7. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Baked Goods – When fall weather arrives it’s all about the pumpkin treats.
8. Speculoos Cookie Butter – It tastes like gingerbread but in a creamy, spreadable form. Enjoy a spoonful with some apple slices for a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
9. Unexpected Cheddar Cheese – It’s technically a sharp cheddar, it has the tangy, nutty flavor of a way pricier aged Parmesan. It features those delicious crystalline bits that give the cheese a subtle crunch, and its creamy, crumbly texture is perfect for melting. It tastes fancy enough for a special-occasion charcuterie board, but at less than $5 a block, it’s affordable enough for everyday snacking, too.
10. Traditional Tunisian Harissa – Like your dishes with heat? Look no further than this rich chili paste. Marinate salmon with the spicy seasoning for the easiest weeknight dinner or pairing it with vegetables for a side dish with a kick.
11. Smoked Apple Chardonnay Chicken Sausage – For an affordable protein option that’s super tasty, cut them in slices and add veggies for a super easy sheet pan dinner.
12. Rosemary Marcona Almonds – When you need a quick and healthy snack, reach for a handful of almonds. Just the right mix of salt, crunch, and herb flavor.
13. Purple Moon California Merlot – There’s no doubting the quality wine section is one of the best things at Trader Joe’s. The Purple Moon California Merlo is not only a delicious casual sipper, but you can also score a bottle for just $6.
14. Shea Butter and Coconut Oil Hair Mask – If the dry winter air left your locks a little lackluster, this is an excellent affordable hair mask option.
15. Vegan Tzatziki – The vegan tzatziki from Trader Joe’s tastes exactly like regular tzatziki. It’s perfect on a salad or as a dip—I seriously cannot say enough good things about it.
16. Caramelized Onion Dip – It has a light and fluffy whipped texture that pairs perfectly with a kettle-cooked or ridged potato chip.
17. Just Dried Mango – A go-to snack. It’s literally just dried mango with no additives or added sugar—the perfect sweet treat.
18. Mini Hold the Cone Ice Cream Cones – When you’re in the mood for a little treat, these are the perfect size to satisfy your craving without overdoing it. They come in tasty flavors like chocolate and coffee bean.
19. Pub Cheese Sharp Cheddar – Not that we recommend you doing it, but you could 100% eat the whole tub of pub cheese dip in one sitting. It is perfect for an easy snack and is always a crowd-pleaser when you’re too lazy to actually make appetizers.
20. Vegan Kale Pesto – Put this pesto on everything, actually everything: eggs, wraps, chicken, you name it.
21. Chili Onion Crunch – This condiment can turn any boring dish into a meal bursting with flavor and is the perfect mixture of savory, salty, and smoky.22. Cauliflower Crust Cheese Pizza – This crust uses a combo of cauliflower, mozzarella cheese, potato flour, chickpea flour, and brown rice flour to turn the easiest dinner go-to into a more plant-based-friendly option. Even if you’re not gluten-free, sneak this in to get extra nutrients in your meals.23. Gone Bananas – This frozen dark chocolate and banana treat is so worth the hype. It’s perfect for times when you want ice cream but also want to be slightly healthier.24. Japanese Fried Rice – This is the best fried rice ever, even above restaurant and takeout options. Top it with a fried egg and a drizzle of sriracha, and it’s heavenly.25. Hash Brown Patties – They’re like McDonald’s hash browns but better and with less grease.26. Buffalo Chicken Dip – An easy lunch and snack to keep in the fridge, and it doesn’t leave you feeling heavy or gross, just happy and full 🙂
27. Steamed Pork & Ginger Soup Dumplings – So easy to prepare and are perfect for fulfilling those midday cravings.
28. Cauliflower Gnocchi – Even if vegetables are not your favorite, with a protein and some pasta sauce, it completes a perfectly healthy—and delicious—dinner.
29. Oven-Baked Cheese Bites with Summer Black Truffle – There are a few different flavors of dried cheese bites at TJ’s, but the truffle option stands far ahead of the rest. Not only are they extremely delicious and flavorful, but they’re also a low-carb snack option for when you just want something light.
30. Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry – Great to have in the freezer for nights when you are either too busy or not in the mood to make a full-on dinner. A favorite way to eat this is as a base with some protein on top. Simply rip open the bag, warm it up in a pan, throw it in a bowl, and enjoy. It’s truly a fool-proof meal.
So – what are your go-to, can’t live without, Trader Joe’s favorites?
Locals Only Gift and Goods – Keeping it Local
We here at Core Homes like to “keep it local” by partnering with as many Chattanooga based area business as possible. We all know that the area is jam-packed with fun, innovative, and unique companies offering products with that world renown “Nooga vibe.
If you haven’t already been in the very popular Locals Only boutique, you surely have noticed its bright blue facade with Dolly herself wishing you joy from the window at the corner of Market and Frazier in the North Shore.
Locals Only proprietors, Danielle and Eric Landrum, tell their story: “We love Chattanooga! It’s a special community filled with inspiring people and businesses. Work pulled us away from Chattanooga for a few years and we came back with an explosion of ideas and ingenuity. Chattanooga is filled with local entrepreneurs with fabulous products! We decided to put together these gifts using only local products to showcase all that Chattanooga has to offer and to support local business. We hope you enjoy giving and receiving these gifts as much as we enjoy finding great local products and putting them together! ”
The bright and happy store has an incredible array of offerings: clothing, treats, sauces, stickers, candles, wall art – the list goes on and on. One of their most popular items is a hand selected gift box to fit any occasion. In fact, Core Homes gives all our home buyers a special Core Home curated gift box as a gift on their closing day.
To bring things full circle, not only does Eric Landrum run the store, he is also a Realtor and Core’s resident expert and agent for our Lake Breeze and Hawks Landing communities! A true Renaissance Man! If you would like to talk to Eric about a new home call him at 423-541-2676. If you want very cool and hip Chattanooga treasures, shop Locals Only online at: https://localsonlygiftsandgoods.com or at their brick and mortar store at 10 Frazier Avenue on the North Shore.
Keeping it Local!
How much does it cost to build a house?
Or – A Home Builder’s Most Challenging Question
How much does it cost to build a house? Followed quickly by, “How much per square foot does this home cost to build?
A good home builder winces when a prospective home buyer inevitably asks this question. Not because they don’t want to be transparent or try to hide anything with their client, it’s just not a good way to look at the cost of building a new home. Confused? Let us explain.
Could we give you a per square foot cost? Of course, we could. But that cost would be for a bare bone home, floating in the air. Cool idea, but Core Homes does not – at this point – build homes that float. Even if we did, it would have to float above something, and that something would have a cost involved. But we digress.
Here is a great analogy: Let’s say your daughter is getting married. Your neighbor’s daughter is also getting married. Both young ladies want their weddings to be held at the elegant Edwin Hotel downtown. Both weddings will have approximately 100 guests attend.
Your daughter has 6 attendants, wants a wedding room full of fresh flowers, a sit-down dinner at the reception with a live band, and a dove release as she and her new husband leave in a horse-drawn carriage.
See where we’re going with this?
Your neighbor’s daughter has 3 attendants, wants fresh flowers at the altar, will have a delicious buffet reception with a popular DJ. She and her new husband will leave the hotel in his shoe polish and balloon decorated car with guests holding sparklers.
Both ladies will have beautiful weddings at The Edwin Hotel. But did both events cost the same per guest? No, obviously.
So, what are the variables that go into the cost to build a new house?
So many variables go into determining the cost of a home, any home for sale, but more specifically, new construction homes.
First of all, the area the home will be built in is the first variable to consider. What are similar homes selling for? What is the current average home value of a home in the neighborhood you are considering building your new home? Is this neighborhood a highly sought-after community? Does it have nice amenities, good schools, a good HOA? Location, Location, Location is not just a cliché!
Secondly, the actual homesite your home will be built on, is it nice and flat? Will the builder need to grade a great deal to make it buildable? Will there need to be a retaining wall built? Does the slope necessitate a basement or crawl space?
Is it a premium site within the community? Is it on the water, or does it have a great view of the mountains?
All these things will put a site premium on a piece of land.
Consider that two identical homes built on different sites, even within the same community, on the same road, could vary a good deal in price because of site conditions.
Now we come to your lovely new home. You’ve picked the perfect home plan – you love it. Of course, you want it to reflect your unique tastes and lifestyle.
Will this be a forever home? You will want to consider widening doorways and having zero entry showers. Everyone needs a home office or “Zoom room” these days. Adding glass, double french doors to the plan’s formal dining room to add privacy will be an added cost. Perhaps a boomerang child or an elderly parent will be living with you so you need a closet added to a study downstairs. Or you just fell in love with quartz countertops instead of granite. The list goes on. Rarely do home buyers make no upgraded selections or structural changes to existing floor plans. Getting your new home perfect for you, comes with some costs.
But does every home buyer pick the same changes or upgrades? No, of course not. And that is why, along with the other above-mentioned situations, will always factor into the total cost of building a home.
And that is why it is nearly impossible for a reputable home builder to quote a square foot cost upfront.
So, where does that leave a home buyer when considering building a new home?
First – and most importantly – talk to your mortgage lender partner first. If you don’t have one you do business with already and trust, ask builders. We work with many lenders, local and otherwise. We can give you some options to shop.
Once you know what loan amount you are pre-approved for, you can start looking at areas you want to be in and which builders are building in that area. Know your timeframe. When do you want or need to be in your new home? There are many variables that go into build time. Some variables a builder has no control over, like 3 months of rain and below-freezing temper atures. Sounds extreme, but it happens. The current supply chain shortage is another example. Who knew it would ever take 6 months lead time to get garage doors? Know your timeframe but realize you’ll probably need to have at least some flexibility.
Also, take time to make a list of your “must-haves” versus your “would likes”. Sitting down with a designer in a Design Center can be a little overwhelming. Thereare a lot of choices, a lot of beautiful choices. You’ll want EVERYTHING! Know what you’re willing to spend money on, and what you aren’t willing to increase your budget over. But don’t panic. Communicate with your Realtor, builder, and designer and we’ll help stay within your comfort zone. We’re here to make building your new home a great experience.
To Wrap Up – What does it cost to build a house?
If a builder gives you a square footage cost to build one of their homes, be wary. It will always be a bare-bones cost. If a builder sells with square footage cost, they see their homes as simply a commodity – a product. Price is the only thing they can compete on with other builders.
That is not how Core Homes views their homes. We create living spaces. The foundation and heart of your life.
Talk to our people. Visit our Design Center. Look around our website and social media pages. Get to know us and how we do business. You’ll find we want to build your home with you. We will work with you to create a home that you absolutely love and is within your investment comfort zone.
We believe in Home & Life – Well Lived!
What’s Trending in New Homes for 2022
So, you’re taking the leap to build your new home, congrats! Here is what’s Trending in New Homes for 2022.
It can be overwhelming to start from scratch when designing your new home build. We have some great ideas to help you get started. If you are looking for fresh, new ideas for your new home project in 2022 we have some ideas for you:
Curvy Construction Elements- Curves designed for entryways, exterior archways, and windows add interest to any area.
Colorful Kitchens- Kitchen trends are leaning toward colorful kitchens – especially in shades of blue and green. Mixed materials like colorful cabinetry, black accents and appliances, and patterned tile flooring are replacing monochrome palettes.
Kitchen Islands- These are the centerpieces of the modern-day home, this is where everyone gravitates to for nearly every part of the day. Adding function and look is idea for planning out your kitchen island.
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living Space- From TVs, fireplaces, living rooms to kitchens, indoor-outdoor living spaces have become an extension of the home to fit people’s lifestyles.
Uncluttered Décor- Minimalistic design (with a less-is-more aesthetic) can be combined with natural looking décor to get the uncluttered look that soothes and de-stresses.
Unique Home Offices- trending in new homes for 2022 now more than ever! If you work from home or have a home office space consider a separate workspace. A dedicated space allows you to work comfortably with little distractions in your home, especially during Zoom calls!
There’s no time like now to start planning and coming up with ideas for your next home.We have a nationally recognized designer, Tony Thompson, who will meet with you to help you design your new home!Learn more about our current home plans, available homes, or look through our gallery of images for inspiration. Feel free to call 423-643-2676 to talk with one of our New Home Consultants for the very latest information.We look forward to hearing from you!
Why 2022 is the Year to Buy New
The 2022 Choose Chattanooga Relocation Guide just hit shelves last week. You don’t have to be a Realtor or a home builder to know that the Scenic City has become a mecca for folks escaping the high costs of living, cold-weather, or impossible traffic. The pandemic has changed how people live in their homes – and a lot have found their current homes can’t provide the flexibility and livability home life now demands. This blog, published on a fellow home builders site, emphasizes why building now is the best option to get the most function, enjoyment, and return on investment in a new home. Give it a read.
this post was originally published on dreamfindershomes.com If you’ve been on the fence about buying a new construction home, there are plenty of good reasons to finalize your decision sooner rather than later. The main motivating factor should be that home prices are not expected to decrease any time soon; they are, in fact, projected to increase for the foreseeable future. Interest rates are also still low compared to pre-pandemic rates, though these, too, will begin to rise (as they have already).
Prices and Rates Expected to Climb
Going into the new year, there is certainly less volatility in the real estate market than we saw in 2020 and 2021. Then, prices were increasing at breakneck speed as demand shot up. All we heard were stories about bidding wars, waved inspections, and even waved appraisals as buyers brought cash to the closing table. Now, as demand cools, home prices are, too. But if you think they’ll start decreasing anytime soon, you may want to re-evaluate.
Zillow predicts home prices will rise 14.3% in the next year, and much of that has to do with the cost of building products and supplies. Lumber, while much more available than it was a year ago, continues to cost well above what it did pre-pandemic, and those costs continue to creep up. The same is true for just about every component of a home — from flooring to HVAC systems to paint. As with housing in general, the demand is just too high as manufacturers struggle to keep up, and prices reflect that.
Demand for new houses isn’t letting up anytime soon. The U.S. currently has under built housing by at least 5.5 million homes. Even as the pace of building picks back up, it will take five or six more years before supply and demand level out, continuing to buoy the price of homes.
Still-low interest rates are also a great reason to buy a new home now. Even with higher home prices, today’s low rates help to keep monthly mortgage payments reasonable for home buyers. And if you have a certain budget that you must stick to, the ability to afford a larger home is an added perk of low interest rates. But they won’t stay low forever, and are predicted to rise substantially in 2022.
Now is the RIGHT Time to Build
If you’ve been in “wait and see” mode for the last few years, you’ve probably looked extensively at floor plans and chosen one or two that would be perfect for you and your family. And chances are you’ve identified exactly where you would build your new home. Now is the RIGHT time to start the process, while the communities you like still have availability and the interest rates are still low.
Connect with us to learn all about new home financing, our proven process, and how you can start building your dream home today.
Home Buyers Want to Reconnect with the Outdoors
The pandemic is moving into its third year. Whether we want to admit it, or not, it has changed our lives – how we live and probably how we will continue to live. “Normal” will never be what it was pre-2019.But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Millions of folks have discovered they can work from home and aren’t tied to a geographical area defined where their job is located. Rarely used guest rooms and formal dining rooms are being transformed into home offices and “Zoom rooms”.
“Fresh Air is Intoxicating”
Another effect of spending more time at home almost 24/7, folks crave being outside even more than we ever have before. Last year The Washington Postnoted that “any outdoor space is more highly prized than ever”. The outdoor fever is just as rampant here at home in Tennessee. The Tennessean, in their August 2021 issue reported that waterfront properties are spending less than 24 hours on the market.
Bringing the Outdoors into our Homes
Core Homes attended the Southeast Builders Conference in Orlando this past summer. One seminar entirely focused on the demand for home plans that effortlessly and beautifully reconnect home buyers to the outdoors – inside and outside of their home. This ranges from a bank of windows that bathe the main living area with natural sunlight to a wall of retractable glass doors that open to expand the living area into the outdoor kitchen and fireplace on the covered deck. Wow!
Covered and screened decks, outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, multiple outdoor living spaces spanning the entire rear of the home – all of these are moving up on the list of home buyers’ “must-have” items.
Core Homes Signature Communities
While all of Core Homes‘s communities feature larger-than-usual homesites and popular amenities, Core’s Signature Communities are designed and planned to take maximum advantage of the natural surroundings. 5-acre wooded tracts, some on the waterfront, will be offered at the Wind River community in Harrison starting this summer. Planned amenities include boat slips, pool and cabana, fire pit pavilion, green space park, and walking trails.
Our River Breeze community in Soddy Daisy has river bluff home sites available. The coastal-style vibe includes a community dock with boat slips, a sundeck, and gas lanterns for every home. Imagine walking this neighborhood at sunset!
Spending more time at home at work and at play is the new normal. Core Homes is designing their communities and homes to bring the outdoors into homes, naturally.
More Communities for Core in 2022
Core Homes is excited to announce we are expanding into more new communities in Harrison, Apison, and Ooltewah confirming our commitment to the area we call home by providing buyers with great new homes that reflect home buyers desire for elevated and lifestyle-centric spaces Plans are still being finalized, but we expect to begin building in two new communities and two new phases in existing communities which will represent our largest expansion effort to date.
Economic growth = more new homes and more new communities in Hamilton County
We love it here. Chattanooga and the surrounding areas are experiencing the kind of growth that will positively affect our community for generations. NoogaToday reports that 12 companies in Chattanooga + the surrounding area rank among the fastest-growing private companies in the nation, according to the 2021 Inc. 5000 list. More recently, Chattanooga was featured in Garden & Gun magazine. The writer called us the “Emerald City for outdoor adventure”. It’s easy to see why we are proud to be “Chattanooga’s Home Builder”.
New Communities – Harrison and Ooltewah, TN
Two new communities are on the drawing board for Core’s home buyers. In the Summer of 2022, Wind River will join River Breeze as a Core Signature Community. Located off Birchwood Pike in Harrison, TN, Wind River will offer 5-acre tracts – some on a bluff overlooking the Tennessee River.
One-acre plus home sites will also be available. Each home will include a boat slip on private community docks. A pool and cabana, fire pit pavilion, walking trails, and a park green space are planned as well. Elevated living at its finest! Keep checking HomeLifebyCore.com for updates on this community.
Still in the planning stages, Core plans on offering condo homes in Ooltewah. More information will be coming later in the year on this project.
New Phases Now Selling
Hawks Landing Phase III in Apison is proving to be very popular! We are already 50% sold out. What an incredible community! A pool and clubhouse, playground, and walking trail, not to mention great schools make Hawks Landing much sought after with our home buyers. Six Designer Selected homes are underway and available. Many still have an option to make some interior selections.
The Lake Breeze community in Harrison has just opened Phase III for sales. Several Designer Selected homes are planned and several home sites with incredible views are available for semi-custom builds.The community has a pool and green space, plus a boat ramp is available less than a mile away.
Core Homes is growing right along with the Chattanooga area. It’s a wonderful time to live in the Scenic City and to call it home.
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