Sean Frank

Juli Prather, or S&J Shutters, says real wood shutters add elegance and value to any home.

In today's rocky real estate market, more homeowners are opting to stay put and make improvements to their existing homes. Even a small remodeling project can add value to a home, giving residents a feeling of newness' without the cost and hassles of relocating.

One easy idea to add style and value to a home or condo is by installing wood shutters. It's a relatively quick and affordable way to upgrade the look of a home, and the popularity of plantation-style shutters can be attractive to potential buyers when it's time to sell.

"I add plantation shutters to all of my homes, because I don't care for drapes," said homeowner Donna Leeds, adding "They beautifully compliment any room, and add value to a home. Nice shutters are one thing that nobody replaces."

Leeds says wood shutters are like a fine piece of furniture, subliminally adding to the elegance of any room.

"Shutters in particular give the place a more homey feeling. And they really dress up a home or condo," said Howard Freedman, a Ventura County Realtor. "When buyers are shopping for real estate, they feel good about making a purchase when they can feel the warmth of the home. Beautiful, high quality shutters can provide that warmth."

Freedman says just this week one of his clients had shutters installed in the new home they purchased. "They went with the white plantation shutters and they look great. It makes a really big difference in the way the house feels."

"Whether you're keeping, selling or renting your home, shutters will add instant curb appeal," said Sean Frank, of S&J Shutters, a company that sells and installs a large selection of real wood shutters at wholesale prices,. "Many homeowners are concerned about the economy and are looking for ways to maintain the value of their home. One way to do it is to add shutters to interior windows."

Frank says the advantage of going with real wood shutters is that they are durable and easy to maintain. "Wiping them down with a slightly damp cloth (water only) once a week, will keep the shutters looking beautiful for years to come." Frank says all the wood shutters his company sells come with a warranty, to guarantee quality.

S & J SHUTTERS is offering a summer special of only $19.95 per square foot. And they're including FREE installation in Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange County and the Inland Empire. For more information and a free in-home estimate, contact them at 818-366-8440 or email DiscountShutters@socal.rr.com.