BLOGS

Three Flawless Ideas for a Bathroom Build

Designing or remodeling a bathroom is an exciting opportunity to create a space that’s both functional and luxurious. A flawless bathroom design balances practicality with aesthetic appeal, ensuring a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. Here are three foolproof ideas to inspire your next bathroom build.

**1. Embrace Minimalist Elegance**

Minimalism remains a top trend in bathroom design, offering a clean, timeless look. Key elements include neutral color palettes, streamlined fixtures, and thoughtful storage solutions. Consider these tips for minimalist elegance:

**Floating Vanities**: A floating vanity creates a sleek, uncluttered appearance while freeing up floor space, making the bathroom feel larger.

**Walk-In Showers**: Opt for frameless glass shower enclosures and large-format tiles to enhance the sense of space and reduce grout lines.

**Hidden Storage**: Use built-in shelving, recessed niches, or vanity cabinets to keep toiletries out of sight.

The simplicity of a minimalist design ensures your bathroom remains stylish and easy to maintain.

**2. Add Spa-Like Features**

Turn your bathroom into a personal spa with luxurious touches that prioritize comfort and relaxation. Some ideas include:

**Heated Floors**: Radiant heating under your tiles is a game-changer, especially during colder months.

**Freestanding Tubs**: A soaking tub serves as a stunning focal point and offers ultimate relaxation.

**Rain Showerheads**: Install a rain showerhead or dual shower system for a soothing, spa-like experience.

**Mood Lighting**: Dimmer switches, backlit mirrors, and accent lighting around fixtures create a calming ambiance.

These upgrades elevate your bathroom from functional to indulgent.

**3. Focus on Sustainability**

Eco-friendly designs are not only better for the planet but can also save money in the long run. Incorporate sustainable elements such as:

**Water-Efficient Fixtures**: Install low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to conserve water.

**Recycled Materials**: Use recycled glass, porcelain, or composite materials for countertops and tiles.

**LED Lighting**: Opt for energy-efficient LED lights, which last longer and reduce electricity consumption.

**Natural Ventilation**: Incorporate windows or skylights to reduce reliance on exhaust fans.

Sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on style—modern eco-friendly materials and fixtures offer endless design possibilities.

**Conclusion**

A well-designed bathroom is a sanctuary where style meets functionality. Whether you favor minimalist elegance, spa-like luxury, or sustainable living, these ideas can help you craft the perfect bathroom build. With careful planning and attention to detail, your dream bathroom can become a flawless reality.

| 12-16-2024

Top 2 Reasons to Consider Newly Built Homes

When searching for your next home, a newly built property might not be your initial thought. However, with more new homes entering the market and builders focusing on affordability, a brand-new home might be the perfect solution to achieving your homeownership dreams.

Here are the top reasons why you should consider a newly built home – and how partnering with a knowledgeable agent can make the process seamless.

1. Greater Availability of Newly Built Homes

Let’s start by understanding the options. A newly built home is either under construction or recently completed, whereas an existing home has been previously owned.

Currently, the number of existing homes for sale is historically low. If your search feels limited, including newly built homes could dramatically expand your options. Recent data shows that newly built homes now make up nearly 29% of the housing inventory – a significant increase compared to the historical average of just 13%. *(see graph below):*

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains:

“Even though existing home sales have been stuck at low levels, newly constructed home sales look to mark one of its best annual performances in 15 years . . . The new home inventory has been consistently rising with homebuilders getting active and making up around 1/3 of total inventory.”

This surge in new construction doesn’t mean builders are overbuilding. Instead, they’re addressing over a decade of underbuilding, offering you more opportunities without flooding the market.

2. Newly Built Homes Are More Affordable

Worried that a new home might be out of your budget? Think again. The average cost of newly built homes has decreased from last year.

Builders understand that affordability is critical for buyers today. That’s why many are focusing on creating smaller, budget-friendly homes that are more accessible to buyers. As Realtor.com puts it:

“Builders are increasingly bringing smaller, more affordable homes to the market, so buyers may find more newly built homes that fit their budget.”

That said, buying a newly built home involves different considerations compared to purchasing an existing home. Builder contracts often have unique terms, making it crucial to work with a local real estate agent who understands the market and builder policies.

Bottom Line

A newly built home could be the perfect fit for your needs and budget, offering modern features and expanded options. Ready to explore what builders in your area have to offer? Let’s connect and start your journey toward finding your dream home today!

| 12-13-2024

How Big Should My Garage Be?

| 12-11-2024

Building Your Dream Home: Why December is the Perfect Time to Start Construction

As the year winds down, December is often seen as a time for reflection and planning for the future. If you’ve been dreaming of building your perfect home, there’s no better time to turn those dreams into reality. Here at Montano Homes, we believe that the holiday season is a fantastic time to kickstart your home construction journey. Here's why:

1. **Strategic Planning for the New Year**

Starting your home construction in December allows you to align your project timeline with the new year. By laying the groundwork now, you’ll be well on your way to moving into your dream home in 2025. This period is ideal for finalizing designs, securing permits, and scheduling contractors for the upcoming months.

2. **Seasonal Discounts and Incentives**

Many suppliers and contractors offer end-of-year discounts to clear out inventory or book projects for the following year. Montano Homes often provides special offers during the holiday season, giving you the chance to save on materials and labor costs.

3. **Avoid the Spring Rush**

Spring is traditionally a busy season for home construction. By starting your project in December, you’ll beat the rush and secure your preferred contractors and materials before their schedules fill up. This can lead to faster project completion and potentially better pricing.

4. **Weather Considerations**

While some may worry about winter weather, modern construction techniques and materials allow for significant progress even in colder months. Foundations can be poured, framing can begin, and indoor work like electrical and plumbing can continue seamlessly.

5. **Tax Benefits**

Depending on your financial situation, starting your home construction in December could have tax advantages. Certain expenses related to home building might be deductible or offer other financial benefits that you can discuss with your financial advisor.

6. **A Fresh Start in Your Dream Home**

Imagine starting the next chapter of your life in a home built exactly to your specifications. With Montano Homes, every detail is tailored to your needs, from the layout to the finishes. By beginning the construction process now, you’re setting yourself up for a fresh start in the home of your dreams.

Ready to Build? Let’s Get Started!

At Montano Homes, we’re dedicated to making your home-building experience seamless and enjoyable. Contact us today to learn more about our December construction specials and start planning your dream home.

| 12-2-2024

Throw a Little Shade This Winter

We have been getting less Colorado sun each day. Of course, when the sun goes down earlier, we have to use our lights, specifically our lamps, a lot more. So it’s time to dust off those shades and let the light shine. Lamp shades, while subtle, are a crucial part of home decor, enhancing both aesthetics and lighting. However, they can quickly accumulate dust, dirt, and grime, which diminishes their appeal and functionality. This may have happened throughout this year without you even noticing. Keeping them clean not only improves their appearance but also ensures your lamps provide optimal light. We want to offer you a few brief tips to keep your Montano home bright in the darkness.

Fabric Lamp Shades

Remove Dust: Use a vacuum cleaner attachment or a microfiber cloth to remove any loose dust.
For Stains: Mix a mild detergent with warm water and use a soft sponge to gently wipe the surface.
Caution: Be careful not to oversaturate the fabric, as excessive moisture can cause damage.
Drying: Allow the shade to air dry completely before reattaching it to the lamp.

Glass or Plastic Lamp Shades

Cleaning: Remove the shade from the lamp and wash it in warm, soapy water.
Non-Abrasive: Use a non-abrasive sponge to clean away dirt.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free towel to avoid streaks.

Paper Lamp Shades

Gentle Dusting: Use a dry microfiber cloth or a soft brush to carefully remove dust.
Caution: Avoid tearing or creasing the material by handling it delicately.

Regular cleaning, tailored to the type of shade, not only keeps your lamp shades looking fresh but also extends their lifespan, ensuring they continue to brighten your Montano home for years to come.

By Montano Homes Staff | 12-1-2024

Recent:

BLOGS

Three Flawless Ideas for a Bathroom Build

1. Embrace Minimalist Elegance

2. Add Spa-Like Features

3. Focus on Sustainability

Conclusion

Top 2 Reasons to Consider Newly Built Homes

1. Greater Availability of Newly Built Homes

2. Newly Built Homes Are More Affordable

Bottom Line

How Big Should My Garage Be?

Assess Your Needs

Consider Future Needs

Think About Clearance and Accessibility

Customization Options

Local Regulations and Resale Value

Conclusion

Building Your Dream Home: Why December is the Perfect Time to Start Construction

1. Strategic Planning for the New Year

2. Seasonal Discounts and Incentives

3. Avoid the Spring Rush

4. Weather Considerations

5. Tax Benefits

6. A Fresh Start in Your Dream Home

Ready to Build? Let’s Get Started!

Throw a Little Shade This Winter

Fabric Lamp Shades

Glass or Plastic Lamp Shades

Paper Lamp Shades