Naples Reserve – Newport model home
During the summer months in Southwest Florida many families head out of town for vacation. Some will visit distant relatives. Others, a national park, an amusement park or a popular attraction. Yet, others will have a staycation and spend time relaxing at one of the much-less-crowded Gulf beaches, where finding an available parking space early in the morning usually isn’t a problem.
But, there is a growing number of residents who have decided to use the summer months to remodel their home. That includes both year-round residents, as well as seasonal residents who have hired firms to remodel their home during the summer so it will be ready for their return trip to Southwest Florida in late fall.
A report that appeared on the website, Remodeling.hw.net, stressed that big-ticket remodeling activity, which is already enjoying record economic conditions, is growing at its fastest pace in four years and should rise another 5.1 percent this year alone.
And, according to Metrostudy’s latest Residential Remodeling Index (RRI), as of the first quarter of 2018, the RRI stood at 112.9, its highest reading ever. That number means the economic conditions known to influence remodeling activity are 12.9 percent higher than the old peak recorded in early 2007.
Naples Reserve Newport model home
KTS Homes has experienced the increase in the remodeling business first hand. Not only does the Naples-based home building company construct luxury homes in both Lee and Collier counties, but it also works with homeowners wishing to remodel their homes, from the design stage to the completion of the project.
Scott Kish II, founder of KTS Homes, understands the reason for the increase in the remodeling business.
“Real estate is one of the single largest investments that we make. And, due to the rising costs of purchasing a new home, many homeowners are deciding to stay put and to customize their current home to better reflect their lifestyle,” stated Kish. “In most cases, per square foot, it’s much more inexpensive to remodel than it is to purchase new.”
Naples Reserve Newport model home
The three areas of a home that are most frequently remodeled are kitchens, bathrooms and the outdoor living area.
“It’s no surprise that kitchens, the busiest room in a home, are among one of the top rooms to be remodeled,” said Kish. “Homeowners are looking for a more functional space, and a larger space if possible. But, it’s more than just installing new cabinetry. They want island counters with sinks. More countertop space. And especially, a kitchen that accommodates today’s appliance and home technology, something that didn’t exist 20 to 30 years ago when many of these homes were first built.”
Naples Reserve Newport model home
Bathrooms are also high on the remodeling priority list, especially master baths. Upgrading cabinetry, countertops, vanities, shower and tubs are often priorities, as well as expanding the space, if possible.
Another popular space to remodel is outdoor living areas.
“Living in Southwest Florida means spending time outdoors – and that includes in a homeowner’s backyard,” said Kish.
“Creating or enhancing outdoor living spaces is often the top thing homeowners do to improve their home, enhance their lifestyle, and add value.”
Adding an elaborate pool with spa, wet shelf and several fire features is a common remodeling project for KTS Homes. The same goes for adding a high-end outdoor kitchen with grills, refrigerators, full-service bars and wine chillers.
Naples Reserve Newport model home
“With proper design and planning, outdoor living spaces can be the center of entertaining families and friends, along with the added benefit of enjoying the beautiful Southwest Florida tropical weather and natural surroundings year-round,” stated Kish.
KTS Homes is a major builder in Southwest Florida. Kish, who has been in the building industry for 18 years, combines his talents as an architect and a builder to assure his homes meet the highest design standards and are quality built. It’s the combination of architect and builder that makes Kish unique to the marketplace.
“When it comes to remodeling projects, we prefer to work with the homeowner right from the start – beginning with the design process,” said Kish. “This is where my architect background is so beneficial. Combine that with a solid understanding and years of experience in the home building industry and homeowners can successfully complete their dream remodeling project at just one location.”
For more information regarding remodeling projects, visit KTShomes.com