Have you made your New Year’s resolutions? Most people think of resolutions in terms of self-improvement – losing weight, quitting smoking, and getting more exercise. But why not make a resolution to improve your home in 2012?

While the economic downturn has forced many people to reassess what’s necessary and what’s not, remodeling trends show that people are:

• Investing in spaces that meet a need to accommodate schoolwork, computers or sports equipment.
• Focusing on features that put an emphasis on family.
• Looking for ways to make to their homes more energy efficient in order to save money.

Some remodeling trends for 2012 include:

• Upgraded kitchens that offer convenience and energy savings – induction and gas stovetops, engineered stone and quartz bars, European spray pullout faucets, deep single bowl sinks, and French door refrigerators.
• Mini-spa-like master bathrooms with large steam showers that allow homeowners to relax and save money by conserving water. Other popular features are dual rain shower heads, quartz and granite countertops, large benches and handle grip bars in showers for the elderly, and high-efficiency toilets and faucets for water savings.
• Large family or great rooms that open up to the kitchen and dining room, creating a free-flowing space for optimal entertaining with family and friends.
• Lifestyle centers, instead of a formal office, for computer and electronic equipment use, providing an area for the kids to do homework or adults to pay bills.
• Mud rooms that serve as drop zones for coats, hats, shoes, backpacks and other clutter. These rooms include cubbies, hooks, and closets for storage, and can be combined with the laundry room.
• Updated flooring with radiant heat. Homeowners are switching from carpet to hardwood, laminate, bamboo, stone, cork, tile or reclaimed materials. Radiant heating provides a practical and efficient way for homeowners to heat their home.
• Energy-efficient windows, appliances and lighting for cost savings.

Even if you can’t afford to spend a lot on updating your home, you can always add a coat of paint, or declutter and purge old items to give your home a fresher appearance.

If you are doing a major renovation project and need a remodeling loan, contact Grandview Lending. We’re here to work with you for all your lending needs.