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AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 1
HOMEAT
HELENAinSPRING 2018
2 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
FARMERS STATE BANK is one of
Montana’s oldest independently owned and
operated banks, opening in Victor in 1907.
The bank has grown and expanded over the
years, adding six Bitterroot Valley and
Missoula full-service locations through
2007. The Bank opened a full-service
branch in Helena and a lending office in
Kalispell in 2017.
Today they are the eleventh largest bank
in the State of Montana, with the third and
fourth generations of the Groff/Clevidence
family at the helm and in key roles.
There’s a new bank in town...with a lot of familiar faces
ExperienceMatters!
FarmersState Bank
Member FDIC
1040 Partridge Place • Helena
Farmers State Bank is extremely proud
of their contributions to the communities
where they are based. One of the most
enduring commitments is to scholarships,
which have benefited 126 students since
2001, with a total award distribution of
$985,408.
While the Bank continues to grow
and expand, they are firmly committed to
keeping the community bank feel and
atmosphere across all locations. They
continue to invest in technology that
allows Bank employees to free up time to
work directly with customers.
Travis Brazill is Helena Market Presi-
dent/Commercial Loan Officer. Travis
brings fifteen years of banking experience
and a long history as a business owner,
volunteer and realtor in the Helena area.
The Helena team also includes Cheri
Goosen, Customer Service Representative;
Ricky Entenmann, Personal Lender/
Customer Service Representative; and
Tamara McGlynn, VP/Consumer Lender
Officer. Each member of the team brings
years of local banking experience.
Farmers State Bank is open Monday
through Friday at 1030 Partridge Place #6.
Learn more online at farmersebank.com
Your Montana Bank Since 1907 • farmersebank.com
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 3
WHAT’S INSIDE
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At Home in Helenais published by the Independent Record
2222 Washington Street, Helena, MT 59602
406-447-4000 — helenair.com
© 2018
Spring garden
planning
Create your style
Buying a home in
today’s economy
8 commandments to
follow for a functional
kitchen
Trending kitchen
cabinet designs
Spring energy-saving tips
How to choose
kitchen cabinets
Find your Montana style
4 decorating tips for
a stylish hallway
Change of season, change of linens
Bed chic
Dispelling homebuyer myths
Glorious color
10 important questions to ask your home inspector
Top 5 benefits of sealcoating asphalt
Helena: 406.431.8402
We’re “dam” good
4 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
The first step to achieving a
well-organized garden is plan-
ning. Here’s what you need
to know.
Talk with local experts
If this is your first time plan-
ning a garden, consult with a
regional garden-planting guide.
You can find one at most hard-
ware stores or nurseries. If you
are a seasoned pro, you probably
are already familiar with the
timing of your last frost, but you
might find some new informa-
tion by checking with your local
professionals.
Seeds vs. seedlings
If you are just starting out,
seedlings are a safer option.
There is no need for you to nur-
ture seeds from infancy when
you’re trying to get a handle on
your gardening strategy.
If you prefer to grow your
own, start your seeds inside
several weeks before your last
frost date.
Create a worksheet
This is where you decide what
you want to plant, how much of
it you want to plant and which
vegetables you want to plant
next to one another.
Tomatoes, peppers, zucchini
squash and lettuce are good
vegetables for beginners. Don’t
forget to contact your local
nursery to see what grows best
in your area.
Beginners: Choosing a plot
Choose a location on your
property that receives a lot of
sun. Vegetables need at least six
hours of direct sunlight each
day to grow properly. You also
need a space with good, loose
soil. If a large garden intimidates
you, consider a raised bed. You
choose the size and even create a
separate area for each vegetable,
only taking on what you want.
Skipping the veggies
You also could skip planting
vegetables altogether and stick
with herbs. Not only are they
great for seasonal cooking, but
they also smell fantastic and
each has a unique beauty to it.
Plant in beds or in pots. The
choice is yours.
This spring, plan your best garden ever —or maybe even your first garden ever
SPRING GARDEN PLANNING
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 5
What is home? It is the
place you live. It is the
place that gives you
comfort and brings you
happiness. It should
also be a statement of who you are.
Much of that statement can be made
by filling it with pieces that you love.
Not everything in your home needs
to be of one style and not everything
needs to match.
Amazingly, filling it with the
things that speak to you will create
your style and blend in a way that is
uniquely your own.
Things to consider when decorat-
ing your home:
Are you a minimalist or a maxi-
malist (or something in between)?
What color combinations
are you drawn to? (hint: check
your closet)
What kind of light are you com-
fortable in? Dark and moody? Bright
and cheery? (think of landscapes you
are comfortable in)
Do you like rich, warm textures?
Clean, sleek lines?
Needing inspiration? While you
can certainly consult a professional
interior designer, you’re local library
has “stacks” of books on style and
decorating. The internet is loaded
with great resources, some favorites
are: Pinterest, Instagram, Design
Sponge (blog), and course there are
hundreds of magazines: House Beau-
tiful, Dwell, Architectural Digest,
Domini, Elle Decor, all good ones.
Find great ideas from real estate
listings and open houses. See some-
thing beautiful while you are out
and about? Snap a picture with your
phone (just be respectful).
When shopping for your home,
don’t be self-limiting. There are so
many good options! Some of the
most treasured belongings come from
the most unexpected places: Yard
sales, thrift stores, farmer’s markets,
online stores (Ebay, Etsy, overstock.
com) art galleries, diy, auctions, and
of course, furniture stores.
Don’t overthink it. If you love it,
you will love living with it!
Submitted by Spruce Finer Consignor
STYLECreate yourDON’T OVERTHINK IT!
NESTFinely Consigned Home Furnishings
& DecorWe carry fine home furnishings and decor with a eye towardmid-century modern. Stop in to find that special something to
complete your Nest! We also are happy to consider consignmentsanytime we are open, no appointment needed. We suggest that youcall ahead for more information and to ensure that we are not full.
429 North Last Chance Gulch, Helena
Winter: Thursday, Friday 11-6, Saturday 11-5
Summer (June): Tuesday-Friday 11-6, Saturday 10-5
Open Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat 8:30 am - 6 pmSunday 10 am - 5 pm
250 Mill Rd., Corner of Green Meadow & Mill Road
montanavalleyfarms.com • 406-458-5528
Spring Garden Class SeriesSATURDAYS8:30AM • 1/2 HOUR CLASS
May 5Truly Compelling Combinations:
Creating sizzle & subtlety
May 12Small space, Big garden
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 5
What is home? It is the
place you live. It is the
place that gives you
comfort and brings you
happiness. It should
also be a statement of who you are.
Much of that statement can be made
by filling it with pieces that you love.
Not everything in your home needs
to be of one style and not everything
needs to match.
Amazingly, filling it with the
things that speak to you will create
your style and blend in a way that is
uniquely your own.
Things to consider when decorating
your home:
Are you a minimalist or a maxi-
malist (or something in between)?
What color combinations are you
drawn to? (hint: check your closet)
What kind of light are you com-
fortable in? Dark and moody? Bright
and cheery? (think of landscapes you
are comfortable in)
Do you like rich, warm textures?
Clean, sleek lines?
Needing inspiration? While you
can certainly consult a professional
interior designer, you’re local library
has “stacks” of books on style and
decorating. The internet is loaded
with great resources, some favorites
are: Pinterest, Instagram, Design
Sponge (blog), and course there are
hundreds of magazines: House Beau-
tiful, Dwell, Architectural Digest,
Domini, Elle Decor, all good ones.
Find great ideas from real estate
listings and open houses. See some-
thing beautiful while you are out
and about? Snap a picture with your
phone (just be respectful).
When shopping for your home,
don’t be self-limiting. There are so
many good options! Some of the
most treasured belongings come from
the most unexpected places: Yard
sales, thrift stores, farmer’s markets,
online stores (Ebay, Etsy, overstock.
com) art galleries, diy, auctions, and
of course, furniture stores.
Don’t overthink it. If you love it,
you will love living with it!
Submitted by Nest Finely Consigned
Furnishings
STYLECreate yourDON’T OVERTHINK IT!
NESTFinely Consigned Home Furnishings
& DecorWe carry fine home furnishings and decor with a eye towardmid-century modern. Stop in to find that special something to
complete your Nest! We also are happy to consider consignmentsanytime we are open, no appointment needed. We suggest that youcall ahead for more information and to ensure that we are not full.
429 North Last Chance Gulch, Helena
Winter: Thursday, Friday 11-6, Saturday 11-5
Summer (June): Tuesday-Friday 11-6, Saturday 10-5
Open Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat 8:30 am - 6 pmSunday 10 am - 5 pm
250 Mill Rd., Corner of Green Meadow & Mill Road
montanavalleyfarms.com • 406-458-5528
Spring Garden Class SeriesSATURDAYS8:30AM • 1/2 HOUR CLASS
May 5Truly Compelling Combinations:
Creating sizzle & subtlety
May 12Small space, Big garden
6 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
Whether you’re a regular news
junkie or you rely on your better
half to keep you updated on the
latest, you’ll get the same con-
flicting messages about the state of today’s
economy. One day you’ll hear about rising
wages, and the next day you’ll read about
the lagging growth in the GDP, or Gross
Domestic Product.
The only thing certain about today’s
economy is that it is uncertain. While things
look relatively stable now, no one can guar-
antee what the next few years will bring.
Fortunately, you don’t have to give up
on the home of your dreams because of a
fluctuating economy. Read on for four steps
you can take to make sure your money – and
your house – are completely safe regardless
of what’s going on.
1.) Maximize your down paymentThe magic number for down payments
has been established at 20% of the home’s
value. Those who can’t afford to plunk
down that much money, though, will often
put down a much smaller amount.
If you can’t come up with a down pay-
ment worth at least 5% of the home’s total
value, you may not be ready to buy a house
just yet, because having little or no equity in
a home could mean taking a loss should you
need to sell it. Also, not making any profit
from selling your home means you won’t
have funds to cover the down payment on
your new home and offset the closing costs.
That’s why it’s always best to own as much
of your house as you can.
2.) Get less than you qualify forIf you’ve been hoping to qualify for a
more expensive home, you may be plan-
ning to push the limits of your mortgage
approval. However, it’s best to buy a house
that comes in well under your approved
limit, allowing you to maintain a lower
debt-to-income ratio. This will give you
breathing room and keep your mortgage
payments from dwarfing your monthly
budget. Also, if the economy worsens and
you feel the effects, you’ll have a smaller
mortgage payment to scrape together
each month.
3.) Pick the right RealtorHere’s how to cut through the hype of the
real estate market and find the Realtor that
is truly best for you:
Speak to recent clients. Ask about their
level of satisfaction and their overall experi-
ence with this agent.
Look up the licensing of your prospec-
tive agent. You should be able to easily find
this information online.
Choose a winner. A Realtor who has
been recognized for their excellent work is
one you want working for you.
Research how long the agent has been
in the business. Experience matters.
Check the current listings under the
Realtor’s name. Are they in the same price
range as the house you’re hoping to buy?
4.) Look for red flagsA professional inspection before sign-
ing on a home is a given, but did you take
a careful look around? You don’t want any
unpleasant surprises after you’ve moved in.
Check for the following:
A sturdy roof. Do the shingles look like
they’re going to give way in a few years?
That can translate into expensive repairs. If
you like the house and don’t mind replacing
a faulty roof, use it as a negotiating point to
get a lower price.
Efficient heating and cooling systems.
These can be costly to fix and replace, and
inefficient systems can really hike up your
utility bills.
Strong structural components. Most
sellers will give their house a new coat
of paint before showing it to buyers, but
don’t be fooled. If the foundation is weak,
the best paint job won’t cover it up. Check
beneath the surface for strong pipes, wiring,
and insulation.
Overall functioning of the home. Don’t
be shy; try out everything in your potential
new home. Open doors and windows, turn
on every faucet, flick each light switch,
flush toilets and taste the water. If you find
any major problems, you may want to give
this house a second thought. If you don’t
mind a handful of minor repairs, remember
to use these as a negotiating point.
Don’t forget to call, click or stop by Hel-
ena Community Credit Union to learn about
our fantastic programs on home loans and
mortgages before you start your search.
We’re here to help you with the finances as
you find the home of your dreams!
Submitted by Helena Community
Credit Union
Buying a homein today’s economy
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 7
*Subject to credit approval. Some restrictions apply. Limited time. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.Subject to credit approval. Some restrictions apply. Limited time. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.
home sweet homeWe’llmake it happen for you!
mortgage
call us today 406.443.5400 or apply online thecu4u.org
8 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
Remodeling a kitchen—now,
there’s an ambitious project
that has to be carefully planned
down to the smallest of details.
After all, you’re not going to do
this again anytime soon! So,
before you set to work on this
exciting project, here are eight
tips for creating a functional
kitchen that will meet all your
needs for years to come.
1. Aim for a user friendly
room: Make sure that all
elements are close to hand.
2. Create well defined zones:
Group elements together in five
distinct activity zones (cooking,
washing, storage, preparation,
and daily provisions) to make
your kitchen user friendly.
3. Provide adequate storage:
Plan sufficient storage room
for everything so you can leave
worktops free for what they’re
More KITCHEN, page 15
KITCHENFUNCTIONAL
Eight commandments to follow for a
TRANE High Efficiency
Forced Air Heating &
Air Conditioning
www.intermountainheating.com
(406) 449-4567
TOTAL
COMFORT:Challenge Accepted
WE RESTORE TIRED CABINETS
406-459-5895 • kitchentuneup.com
Our exclusive Tune-Up restores& repairs the original finish onwood cabinets. Get a freshnew look - in only one day!
Free estimates
1 DAY TUNE-UP
REFACING &REDOORING
ORGANIZERS &MORE
Locally owned & operated.
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 9
The kitchen is the heart of every
home. Not only does it need to be
functional, but as the hub of your
family life, it also has to be visually
stunning. To this effect, kitchen
cabinets have moved away from the rustic
and classical designs of previous years. In
an effort to become more modern and sleek,
cabinetry has adopted a new seamless style
combining appearance and functionality.
A minimalistic approachKitchens have become increasingly
streamlined over the years. Gone are the days
of raised panel doors, excess ornamentation
and crown moldings. Instead, you’ll find
a more European approach emphasizing
horizontal lines and an obvious absence of
patterns. Full-overlay cabinetry is brought to
the ceiling and flat-panel doors are outfitted
with basic chrome or stainless steel hard-
ware—anything and everything to create that
sleek and unadorned look.
Inspired by your tastesYou’ll encounter a varied selection of
cabinets when attempting to tailor the design
of your kitchen to your style and needs.
Melamine continues to be a popular choice
for many kitchens. Installing solid wood cab-
inets will increase the value of any home, but
they are more expensive than other materials
such as veneer and thermoplastic. And color
choices, while often influenced by natural
light, will vary depending on your personal
taste and style.
Consulting a renovation specialist is
always a good idea when looking to make
your kitchen more modern. Their exper-
tise and personalized assistance will help
you select and install the right cabinets for
your kitchen.
Trending kitchen cabinet designsKitchen cabinets
make a move
towards the
modern!
YOUR DESIGNERS H O W R O O M
DESIGN/SELECTION CENTER
406.495.9474
LUMBER/BUILDING MATERIALS
406.449.6924
TRUSSES/WALL PANELS
406.449.5553www.BuildWithBMC.com
BMC offers top-quality finish products with
our extensive selection of cabinets, windows,
doors, millwork, and designer hardware. Visit our
showroom to speak with a knowledgeable design
specialist, and browse our beautiful displays in a
variety of architectural styles.
• Cabinets, windows, doors and millwork
• Designer kitchen, bath, and door hardware
• One-on-one service with custom millwork packages delivered to your door
• Lumber, building materials, and trusses
• READY-FRAME® computerized pre-cut and labeled framing packages
With BMC, you get quality the pros trust with
service you can count on.
10 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
With the start of a new season
comes a fresh opportunity
to find ways to save energy
and money.
The following tips from the U.S.
Department of Energy can help.
1. Service your air conditioner. Easy
maintenance, such as routinely replacing
or cleaning air filters, can lower your cool-
ing system’s energy consumption by up
to 15 percent. Also, the first day of spring
could serve as a reminder to check your
air conditioner’s evaporator coil, which
should be cleaned annually to ensure the
system is performing at optimal levels.
2. Open windows. Opening windows
creates a crossbreeze, allowing you to nat-
urally cool your home without switching
on air conditioners. This is an ideal tactic
in spring, when temperatures are mild.
3. Use ceiling fans. Cooling your home
with ceiling fans will allow you to raise
your thermostat four degrees. This can
help lower your electricity bills without
sacrificing overall comfort.
4. Cook outside. On warmer spring
days, keep the heat out of your home
by using an outdoor grill instead of
indoor ovens.
5. Install window treatments. Energy-
efficient window treatments or coverings,
such as blinds, shades and films, can slash
heat gain when temperatures rise. These
devices not only improve the look of your
home but also reduce energy costs.
6. Caulk air leaks. Using low-cost
caulk to seal cracks and openings in your
home to keep warm air out — and cash in
your wallet.
7. Bring in sunlight. During daylight
hours, switch off artificial lights and
use windows and skylights to brighten
your home.
8. Set the thermostat. On warm days,
setting a programmable thermostat to a
higher setting when you are not at home
can help reduce your energy costs by
approximately 10 percent.
9. Seal ducts. Air loss through ducts can
lead to high electricity costs, accounting
for nearly 30 percent of a cooling system’s
energy consumption. Sealing and insulat-
ing ducts can go a long way toward lower-
ing your electricity bills.
10. Switch on bathroom fans. Bathroom
fans suck out heat and humidity from
your home, improving comfort.
ENERGY-SAVING TIPSSpring
0901136.1 State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL
Renovate your
homeowners
policy.
Michael Spotorno, Agent
2718 Billings Avenue
Helena, MT 59601
Bus: 406-502-1600
Great insurance. Low rates.
Remodeling your home can
increase its value. Protect it
by taking a new look at your
homeowners insurance policy.
Like a good neighbor,
State Farm is there.®
CALL ME TODAY.
See our inventory at
isemanhomes.com
3386 Centennial Ave., Helena, MT
(406) 443-2366
Shop a great selection of new homes,single wides, sectionals & modular homes.
AN INDUSTRY LEADERSINCE 1920 PROVIDING
VALUE, SERVICE,STABILITY AND QUALITY!
ISEMAN HOMES
COMESEEJOSH,MIKEORDARLA
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 11
Adding style or color to your
kitchen cabinets is a great
way to spruce up your liv-
ing space.
You don’t have to spend a lot
of money to accomplish your
goal. Some experts recom-
mend spending up to 20 percent
of your home’s value on any
remodeling project. For a home
valued at $100,000, for instance,
homeowners might spend up
to $20,000 on updating the
kitchen. Of that money, about 40
percent should be spent on cabi-
nets alone.
Why spend so much money on
cabinets? Because they are the
focal point of your kitchen. They
must be attractive and useful.
Anyone planning to sell their
home should purchase high qual-
ity cabinets that will appeal to a
wide selection of buyers. But if
you plan on spending more than
eight years in your home, put your
family’s tastes and priorities first.
Most homeowners would agree
that semi-custom cabinets are
an excellent choice. They afford
you the selection you see on the
internet at a price point agreeable
to most budgets while maintain-
ing the quality necessary to last
a lifetime.
The best part is that you can
choose any style you want. The
only limitation is your imagina-
tion. You can specify the wood,
color of the stain or paint, hinges,
drawer guides, and crown shape.
You can even have special finishes
applied to the cabinets.
For this option, it is essential
to work with a professional. Ask
your friends and family if they
know an experienced kitchen
designer. Tradesmen in your area
will likely know a cabinet dealer
they prefer. If you are using a
contractor, solicit him or her for
recommendations.
Visit two or three cabinet deal-
ers in your area and discuss your
preferences. Be sure to outline
your budget and specifications. A
professional will give you a rea-
sonable timeframe. Some might
require less time than others.
Take a look at special finishes.
Some people like the rustic or
distressed look. Other people
prefer to have their cabinets to be
more contemporary and match
other colors in the kitchen. There
are companies that will paint your
new cabinets any color you chose.
Get everything in writing. Go
over every detail to ensure that
you and the kitchen designer
agree on the layout and the
cabinet specs. A contract should
stipulate what is expected of both
parties. Do not sign anything until
you understand the contract and
have read it completely.
Need to spend less?
When you are on a tight bud-
get, consider that most cabinet
dealers have a more affordable
line of cabinets as well. You can
still receive quality for a little
less cost.
First, look for cabinet boxes
made with quality materials.
Cabinet grade particle board is
stable and durable and the face
frames should always be wood.
The cabinets must also feature
solid construction.
Many brands will also allow you
to order special sizes. They will be
slightly more expensive, you will
appreciate the results.
Regardless of the choices you
make, always choose to purchase
cabinets from an interiors show-
room that has been in business
for a long time. They should be
good at what they do. Look at
their previous work and get in
touch with previous customers.
Once you do this legwork, there is
no doubt you will be happy with
the results.
Submitted by Harv Lulow or
Lighthouse Interiors
How to choose kitchen cabinets
442-40934320 N. Montana Ave. • Helena
Cabinets • Countertops • Wallbeds • Blinds • Shades
Featuring Cabinets by Showplace
LIGHTHOUSE
INTERIORS
“Across from Smitty’s”
MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL HOUSING LENDER NMLS #472212
(406) 495-2520www.valleybankhelena.com
12 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
We live and love
Montana for many
reasons—the beauti-
ful outdoors, family
heritage, the active lifestyle of
hiking, biking, skiing, rafting.
At the end of the day, we retreat
to our homes to relax, rest
and renew.
Modern Farmhouse is a per-
fect fit for our Montana lifestyle.
A home should feel personal,
comfortable and uniquely your
own. This latest design trend
works beautifully in Montana. It
embodies the old and the new-
antique and industrial. A design
that is uniquely personal—no
two exactly alike.
By starting with a neutral
light color palette that flows
throughout the main living
space, you are able to create a
canvas that is calm and open to
personal interpretation. A cozy
aesthetic and sleek lines are
important elements in complet-
ing this beautiful design.
Contrast modern with coun-
try to create a more authentic
home. Ship Lap, exposed beams
as well as brick or stone provide
a vintage, cozy look. Combine
that with modern elements
such as concrete floors, large
hardware or simply framed art-
work. Warm reclaimed woods
combined with contemporary
elements such as glass and
marble give a nice update to
the room. Lighting and bold
geometric patterns are other fun
ways to add modern elements to
the design.
Black is the new accent color.
When mixed with warm woods,
white and textured items, it
becomes a beautiful neutral pal-
ette. Subway tiles in a kitchen
or bathroom with a dark grout
is easy to maintain and gives a
vintage feel, graphic look and
highlights the repeating pat-
tern. Rustic sliding barn doors
can also become modern and
sleek by changing the door style
and color.
With the Modern Farmhouse
style, less is more. Keep the
look fresh and balanced. Layer
in texture and warm tones with
clean lines and a minimal-
ist approach. Mix and
match different styles such
as Montana Rustic, Urban
Country or Mountain
Lodge to create your own
charm and authenticity.
Look forward to com-
ing home to your favor-
ite retreat.
Submitted by Cheryl
Boid, Appleton Furniture
& Design
Montana styleFIND YOUR
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 13
1999 EUCLID AVENUE HELENA, MONTANA T. 406-495-0016
WWW.APPLETONDESIGNCENTER.COM
DESIGN CENTER LTD
MODERN FARMHOUSE DINING
Let us Design Your Dining Set96”W x 42”D Knotty Alder with Jacobean Finish (shown)
Hand-Crafted in Helena, Montana
14 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
Decorating a hallway can
prove quite challenging, espe-
cially if it’s particularly long and
narrow. Add some character
to this oft-neglected part of
your home with these simple
style tips.
1. Be bold with patterns
and colors. Have fun with
textures and colors to give your
hallway some personality. When
choosing your paint or wall-
paper, keep in mind that light
colors such as pastel pink, sky
blue and pale green are great for
achieving a bright, luminous
atmosphere, while darker tones
like deep purple, navy blue
and pine green create a more
cozy feel.
2. Showcase your art col-
lection. Why not transform
your hallway into a custom min-
iature art gallery? Personalize
the space with a family photo
wall, or frame different sizes of
artwork for an eclectic look.
3. Create storage space.
Make the most of underused
space by equipping your hall-
way with shelves, hooks and
other storage systems. Just be
careful to not clutter the area
or impede circulation through
the hallway with items that are
too bulky.
4. Light it up. If your hall-
way is stuck in the shadows,
make it more inviting by add-
ing some light fixtures. Create
a warm atmosphere with a
classic ceiling light, or put up
some string lights for a fairy-
tale glow.
4decorating
TIPSstylish hallway
for a
Find more decorating
and design tips at helenair.com
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AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 15
supposed to be used for: working.
4. Build cabinets right to the ceiling:
Full-sized cabinets mean lots more
storage space and a lot less dusting.
5. More drawers: Exchange the lower
cabinets for drawers, which give much
easier access to their contents, includ-
ing things hidden right at the back.
Install oversized drawers for even the
garbage, recycling and compost.
6. Include a spacious work surface:
Be sure to plan a zone specifically for
food preparation, ideally a kitchen
island, and make certain that it is big
enough to spread out all the ingredi-
ents of a recipe.
7. Build-in your appliances:
Camouflage the microwave oven by
building it into a cabinet or under
the island.
8. Install well designed lighting:
Don’t skimp on light. Install lights in
the ceiling and under the cabinets, as
well as dimmers, which are perfect
for changing the atmosphere at a
moment’s notice.
Kitchencontinued from Page 8
Marks-Miller Post & Pole, Inc.
15 Lump Gulch Rd., Clancy, MT • 406.933.5981 • www.marks-miller.com
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16 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
We tend to shut our homes up
during the winter months and
perform our own version of hiber-
nating.
And while we enjoy the cozy feeling this
hibernation provides, it also can induce
poor circulation of air and accumulation
of dust and germs. Washing and chang-
ing out your linens is a necessary stage of
spring cleaning.
Go through every room thoroughly, and
be sure to wash any winter items before
storing. By the end, your home will be a
brighter, cleaner version of itself.
Bedrooms
Say goodbye to all those heavy comfort-
ers, and welcome in light summer quilts.
Changing out your bedding for lighter
fabrics in an attractive print will go a long
way toward freshening your bedroom. Since
spring can still be cool, keep a cozy but light
throw at the foot of your bed. Not only does
it make for an easy grab in the middle of
the night, but will soften the look of your
spring bedding.
Living areas
Think throws, pillows and draperies. Not
only is it good to change out these items
for their lighter counterparts, but it also
is smart to begin storing excess. Spring
requires fewer layers, so start putting away
what you know you won’t use. Give your
draperies a good wash and inspect your
blinds. Keeping a space clean and bright is
the trick to a quick “freshen up.”
Kitchen towels and door mats
These often are forgotten items that can
have a major impact on the freshness and
cleanliness of your home. Winter weather
can be hard on door mats — both indoor and
outdoor. Replacing these with fresh mats
will not only help keep the effects of spring
showers out of your house but gives you the
opportunity to introduce a spring design.
And don’t forget those kitchen towels. After
all those holiday meals, they’ve most likely
been more than pulling their weight. If you
don’t want to purchase new kitchen cloths,
run your current ones through the wash
with a good dose of bleach, and dry them
with a few drops of your favorite essen-
tial oils.
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AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 17
Winter has gone, and it’s
time to put the flannel
sheets in the closet and
get ready for warmer
nights. Spoil yourself by buy-
ing new bedding that adds style
to your room and a new level
of comfort.
Creating a bed that provides
style and comfort takes a little
effort. Knowing the difference
between the various types of
bedding and how to use colors
and accessories will help you
choose the perfect bedding.
Different types of bedding
If you have started the search
for the new bedding that is
perfect for you, you have prob-
ably noticed the many different
styles available. Decide on the
style of bedding that works best
for you before choosing a color
or pattern. There are three major
types of bedding.
Bedspread: A bed cover that
typically reaches the floor on
all three sides and offers extra
fabric to create an attractive fold
at the top of the bed.
Comforter: Generally much
shorter than a bedspread. It will
cover the sides of the bed but
will not be nearly long enough
to reach the floor. You can use
shams to cover the area it doesn’t
cover at the top of the bed.
Quilt: Usually only long
enough to cover a bed’s box
spring. In addition to a quilt, use
a bed skirt if you want your new
bedding to reach the floor.
Colors and patterns
Before you decide between a
pattern or using solid-colored
bedding, weigh the pros and
cons of both. Solid-colored
bedding will give your room a
simple and relaxing atmosphere.
This doesn’t mean simple must
be boring. Choose the main
color you want to feature, then
layer it with different shades of
the same color. Incorporating
various shades will keep your
bed from looking dull. Patterned
bedding also comes with advan-
tages. You can use patterns to
pick up different accents from
your bedroom. Consider using
floral prints to give your bed-
room a romantic feel.
Accessories
Once you have the perfect
bedding style that suits your
room, you can throw in some
extra flair with different acces-
sories. Use window treatments
such as matching drapes or
scarves to add the finishing
touches to your new bedding.
Vibrant pillow shams also will
complement your new bedding.
You can choose shams that go
with your existing color scheme
or make a bold statement with
something totally different.
BED CHIC
HELENA HOMEVALUES ARE
AT AN ALL TIME HIGH
Knowing the Value of Your
Home is the First Step!
ANDY O REALTY GROUP
Andy Onushco,Broker
(406) 431-7756
Jeff Barber,
Realtor(406) 422-6647
Shawna Korth,Realtor
(406) 422-6647
Craig Stevens,Realtor
(406) 202-0716
HelenaHomeBuyer.com
18 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
Once upon a time, almost all
lenders required a 20% down
payment to purchase a home.
And even though this hasn’t
been the case for many years
now, many people still think 20% down is
a rule of thumb. Unfortunately, these kinds
of homebuyer myths have prevented many
would-be investors from making their
first purchase.
The truth is, you do not need a 20% down
payment to sign the papers on your dream
home. In fact, the average down payment
is about half that amount at 11%, accord-
ing to the National Association of Realtors,
and many first-time homebuyers put down
much less than that.
Exploring Your Mortgage OptionsFirst, let’s look at the down payment
for other first-time buyers. In 2016, buy-
ers under 35 years old put down an average
of 8% on their first home, according to
NAR’s report.
This means you might be able to get into
your home for much less than you thought.
But still, there’s a lot to consider before
making the decision that is best for you,
your family and your finances.
Benefi ts of a Small Down PaymentBuying a home is one of the biggest
investments you’ll ever make, which is why
it’s so vital to understanding all the fine
details involved with such a big purchase.
And as like with any investment, there’s a
certain amount of risk and reward.
It Saves Your Savings AccountOne of the best parts of making a small
down payment is the fact it won’t com-
pletely drain your savings account. Many
first-time home-buyers struggle to pay for
all the additional fees and extras
because they put
all of their money towards a down payment.
When you reduce your down payment,
you increase your ability to meet the other
responsibilities you have as a homeowner.
This can give first-time buyers a huge
advantage when they’re just starting out
their new life in their new home.
Supply and DemandOffering low down payments to new
investors helps the entire real estate market
thrive because it increases the supply and
demand chain.
If more people are able to buy a home,
that means more people will be able to sell
their homes as well. This creates a competi-
tive marketplace with lots of options for
both buyers and sellers.
The RisksWhile small down payment programs
certainly have their advantages, there
are also some downsides to them. So it’s
important to weigh these pros and cons
carefully before making your decision.
Increased Interest RatesOne of the most important aspects
of any investment is the interest rate
you’ll be paying. But because a
mortgage is typically one of the
largest loans a person ever signs
off on, it’s especially critical to
consider the interest rate on
this agreement.
If you put down a small pay-
ment on a house, that means the
lender is taking more risk with
the loan. And because of this risk, low
down payment mortgages often result
in higher interest rates. However, if
you shop around and talk to the right
financial institutions, you might be
able to get a fair interest rate despite making
a lower down payment.
Mortgage InsuranceAnyone who is putting down less than
20% will be required to pay for mortgage
insurance each month. This insurance only
offers the lender protection in case the
buyer defaults on their payments. But the
good news is, once you have some equity
built up in your home, you might be able to
eliminate this monthly fee.
The world of real estate has undergone
some serious changes in recent decades, and
the 20% rule has been all but eliminated in
most cases.
So if you’ve always dreamed of own-
ing a home but thought you couldn’t save
up enough to get one, it might be time to
consider a low down payment program with
reasonable terms and rates. With a little bit
of effort and know-how, you’ll be signing
the closing papers before you know it!
Submitted by Rocky Mountain Credit Union.
See our ad on the back cover.
mythshome buyer
Dispelling
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 19
Many novice gardeners have great dif-
ficulty choosing plant varieties for their
yards, particularly when color is concerned.
Combining colors and foliage is always a
challenge, even for more experienced gar-
deners. It is well worth doing some research,
however, as a harmonious flower bed sets
apart a well-maintained home with little
cost and only a little bit of effort.
Here are a few tips to help you create a
visually striking yard, one that suits your
personality and creates the look that you’ve
always wanted.
YELLOW stands out, attracting the
eye right away. This color creates a joy-
ful ambiance.
RED is a warm color. It draws the eye
and creates a dramatic effect.
BLUE communicates calm and relax-
ation. A grouping of blue flowers gives the
impression of more space. Careful use of
blue in small yards can show confined areas
to advantage.
ORANGES are fall tones par
excellence. They create an illusion of
warmth and light before the arrival of
winter. Even greater warm effects can be
achieved by combining orange with yellow
or red.
GREEN is the color of life and spring
rebirth. It is said to be the most restful color
for the eyes. Different tones of green can be
the basis of a beautiful yard all on its own.
WHITE expresses elegance and refine-
ment. This color always adds a touch of
radiance and freshness to a yard.
COLORGlorious
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20 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
1. What does your inspection cover?
The inspector should ensure
that their inspection and inspec-
tion report will meet all appli-
cable requirements in your state
if applicable and will comply
with a well-recognized standard
of practice and code of ethics.
You should be able to request
and see a copy of these items
ahead of time and ask any ques-
tions you may have. If there are
any areas you want to make sure
are inspected, be sure to identify
them upfront.
2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you completed?
The inspector should be able
to provide his or her history in
the profession and perhaps even
a few names as referrals. Newer
inspectors can be very qualified,
and many work with a partner or
have access to more experienced
inspectors to assist them in the
inspection.
3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?
Related experience in con-
struction or engineering is
helpful, but is no substitute
for training and experience in
the unique discipline of home
inspection. If the inspection
is for a commercial property,
then this should be asked about
as well.
4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?
Some inspector associations
and state regulations allow the
inspector to perform repair work
on problems uncovered in the
inspection. Other associations
and regulations strictly forbid
this as a conflict of interest.
5. How long will the inspection take?
The average on-site inspec-
tion time for a single inspec-
tor is two to three hours for a
typical single-family house;
anything significantly less may
10 important questions
home inspectorto ask your
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AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 21
not be enough time to perform
a thorough inspection. Addi-
tional inspectors may be brought
in for very large properties
and buildings.
6. How much will it cost?Costs vary dramatically,
depending on the region, size
and age of the house, scope of
services and other factors. A
typical range might be $300-
$500, but consider the value of
the home inspection in terms
of the investment being made.
Cost does not necessarily reflect
quality. HUD does not regulate
home inspection fees.
7. What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?
Ask to see samples and
determine whether or not you
can understand the inspector’s
reporting style and if the time
parameters fulfill your needs.
Most inspectors provide their
full report within 24 hours of the
inspection.
8. Will I be able to attend the inspection?
This is a valuable educational
opportunity, and an inspector’s
refusal to allow this should raise
a red flag. Never pass up this
opportunity to see your prospec-
tive home through the eyes of
an expert.
9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?
There are many state and
national associations for home
inspectors. Request to see their
membership ID, and perform
whatever due diligence you deem
appropriate.
10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?
One can never know it all,
and the inspector’s commit-
ment to continuing education
is a good measure of his or her
professionalism and service to
the consumer. This is especially
important in cases where the
home is much older or includes
unique elements requiring addi-
tional or updated training.
Submitted by Steve Jenicek, Task
Master Home Inspections
406-227-5544800-270-5544850 East Clark,East Helena
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22 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA
1. Sealcoating asphalt prevents moisture damage
When sealcoat is properly
applied it prevents moisture from
getting beneath the surface layer,
weakening the base and causing
cracks. By keeping water out of
asphalt you safeguard it against
all kinds of water damage. If
water finds a way to penetrate
the top surface of asphalt it can
start to wash away the base level.
Another issue with moisture
trapped beneath the top layer of
asphalt is that it will go through
periods of freeze thaw cycles
depending on the weather. When
temperatures dip below freezing,
moisture expands and puts pres-
sure on asphalt, eventually caus-
ing cracks, potholes and so forth.
2. Sealcoating provides asphalt with a protective layer against gas and oil spills
You can’t prevent all oil and
gas spills on asphalt which cars
regularly frequent it’s just a fact
of life. Unprotected asphalt is
at risk of serious damage from
gasoline, oil and other chemicals.
These harsh substances weaken,
break down and damage surfaces
from the get-go. This leads to
early deterioration of asphalt and
costly maintenance repairs.
High quality sealcoating pre-
vents oil and gas from penetrat-
ing surfaces right away. This
gives you more time to clean it up
before damages set in.
3. Improves the appearance of asphalt
Sealcoating makes a notice-
able difference to asphalt right
away. Your asphalt will literally
look brand new, with the same
rich coloring it had the first day
it was poured. This makes any
surface look well cared for, which
in turn makes your business and
overall neighborhood look better
too. Not only do surfaces look
richer and smoother in color, but
also cracks and other eyesores
are filled and patched during
the process so that surfaces
last longer.
4. Reduces long-term repair costs
All in all, sealcoating protects
your asphalt against water dam-
age, oil and gas spills and other
things, all while making your
asphalt look and function better.
There are so many things that can
cause serious damage to asphalt
over time, including cracks and
the moisture that subsequently
seeps inside. If ignored, these
seemingly minor eyesores can
turn into large potholes or alli-
gator cracks that require more
extensive (and costly) repairs
to fix.
Simply adding sealcoating
ensures your asphalt lasts longer
without needing to be replaced
due to major construction issues
or aesthetics. By keeping up
with affordable maintenance
you actually save money on
future repairs.
5.Leads to longer lasting asphalt
The actual cost of asphalt
breaks down to the amount of
time it lasts before needing to be
replaced. A nice asphalt job isn’t
so painful to pay for when you
know it’s going to last for many
years to come. On the other hand,
if you have to rip up and replace
asphalt in as little as a few years
due to faulty construction or poor
upkeep of maintenance, it can
start to feel like pulling teeth to
fork over more money.
Submitted by Jason Welnel, Hel-
ena Sealcoating
TOP 5 benefits of sealcoating asphalt
AT HOME IN HELENA • APRIL 29, 2018 • 23
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24 • APRIL 29, 2018 • AT HOME IN HELENA