Compass Greater NY, LLC
Ann Marie Damashek, GRI, CBR, SRES, Compass Greater NY, LLCPhone: (917) 623-0624
Email: [email protected]

Updating Door Hardware Can Be a Décor Game-Changer

by Ann Marie Damashek, GRI, CBR, SRES 02/13/2022

Sometimes the little things add up to major differences, and that idea holds true when updating door hardware. It’s not uncommon for relatively inexpensive doorknobs, locking systems and hinges to lose their luster prematurely. Repetitive use and age result in those once shiny finishes looking dull and worn out. Unattractive door hardware elements are like tiny blemishes in an otherwise lovely interior and exterior décor.

The good news for homeowners stems from the fact replacing them remains a relatively simple DIY project. Given the door and jamb holes have already been drilled, all you have to do is select appealing products that match their dimensions. These are strategies that can cost-effectively enhance your décor.

Match Doors With Hinges

One of the décor faux pas that doesn’t get the attention it deserves stems from unmatched doors and hinges. Some homeowners focus on doorknobs and deadbolts without considering the hinges. Lovely knobs and locking systems often differ in two ways. They either possess a different color scheme than the hinges, or the knobs and locks appear newer.

If you have reasonably attractive knobs and locking systems, consider circling back and selecting hinges that match. Taking off a door and replacing hinges might seem like too much DIY effort. However, the difference it makes in terms of consistent details is worth it.

Pivot to Door Hardware That Fits Interior Décor

There are wide-reaching reasons door hardware fails to seamlessly fit the interior décor. Sometimes homeowners select fetching doorknobs because they look terrific at the retail outlet. Shiny brass or silvery finishes often affect people. While these may be wonderful products, few people want their doorknobs to attract an abundance of attention.

Consider choosing door hardware that adds a subtle enhancement to the room without drawing your eye. Low-luster finishes such as bronze, pewter and even glass can accomplish this change. Many enjoy superior designs that subtly enhance any space without becoming the center of attention.

Faux Hardware Makes Sense Under Certain Circumstances

Perhaps the most prime example for faux hardware is the rustic hinges homeowners are adding to garage doors. These large, black, barn-style hardware elements are fixed on the outside of automatic garage doors. When they are closed, they add significant curbside appeal. No one is really the wiser that they don’t necessarily function. Sometimes décor is purely about aesthetic appeal, and faux hardware remains an option.

Homeowners looking for a low-cost DIY project that enhances their living space may want to consider changing door hardware. Those little things enhanced the quality of a living space and your peaceful enjoyment.

About the Author
Author

Ann Marie Damashek, GRI, CBR, SRES

Ann Marie Damashek has always been a natural at helping people prepare their homes for sale. She started out with a successful business selling goods for people on eBay. "Nine times out of ten they were hiring me because they were down-sizing,” Ann Marie says. "So I decided to get my license. I said, ‘Might as well sell their house too.’” The transition was a smooth one and for nine years she’s had a thriving full-time real estate business that allows her to marry her entrepreneurial spirit with her passion for helping others. With an office in Larchmont, New York, she serves all of Lower Westchester County, with her primary market in the Sound Shore region. The majority of her business is "sphere of influence” with former clients referring her to friends and family. A gifted communicator, Ann Marie quickly builds trust and rapport with her clients by being both thoughtful and responsive; she understands that during the purchase or sale of a home, a quick response time is crucial. "I am very accessible,” Ann Marie says. "I always make time for my clients. They can call me, text me, email me up until 10 o’clock at night and I will respond. I’m available on weekends. I get back to people very promptly. I’m very customer service-oriented.” Her clients appreciate her professionalism, passion and enthusiasm and as a result her repeat and referral rate continues to grow each year. While selling real estate is serious business, Ann Marie knows that at times humor and a moment of levity can be a relief to clients. While she has a laidback and easygoing personality, she can be assertive when needed on her clients’ behalf. She loves being of service to them, and the continually changing nature of the work keeps her engaged and fulfilled. "It’s never boring,” Ann Marie enthuses. "Every day is different. That’s probably what I like most about it. But I also enjoy helping people sell or buy and educating them about the process. I love helping them achieve their goals.” This ethic of service has resulted in well-deserved recognition. Ann Marie has received the Westchester Magazine Five Star Real Estate Agent Rating four years running, in 2015 and 2016 she was the #1 agent in her office, and she’s a Zillow 5-Star Premier Agent. To keep in touch with former clients, Ann Marie sends cards to mark special occasions or reaches out via email. To market her listings, Ann Marie uses Multiple Listing Services (MLS), as well as Listingbook.com, a service that allows both agents and their clients access to MLS data. She also uses a Facebook business page and ads to boost new listings or promote upcoming open houses. "That drives a tremendous amount of traffic,” Ann Marie says. She also uses the most popular real estate websites such as Zillow and Trulia. A strong believer in giving back, Ann Marie sits on the Board of Trustees of her church and is involved in a variety of social justice projects. She’s affiliated with Furniture Sharehouse, a furniture bank for Westchester County, which collects and distributes gently used furniture free of charge to those in need. "I love it on so many levels because as a realtor, it’s helps my sellers downsize through charitable donations. I like the environmental aspect of it as well. And it helps people who truly need things.” She’s also involved in Impact 100, a women’s philanthropic giving organization. In her free time, Ann Marie enjoys gardening, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. For the future, Ann Marie wants to continue expanding her business and developing her brand, and she someday hopes to grow a strong team. But her main goal is to stay in the real estate business, helping her clients to achieve their dreams.