John Isshak - Broker of Record : Blog : Latest Blog Posts

How To Select the Right Paint and Color For Your Home

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 01:03:00 GMT

Painting is a quick and cheap way to give an old room a breath of fresh air or to make your house more sellable if you are putting it on the market. Find out all you have ever wanted to know about selecting paint.

Which paint should you choose?

Paint comes in a variety of sheens as well as in either oil or latex. Latex paint is the most commonly and preferred paint type to use because of its ease of clean up and long lasting durability. It also tends to be more fade resistant and breathes better than oil, resulting in less blistering of the paint. I recommend using a latex paint for most of your walls and household uses. However, oil based paint is great for priming real wood moldings and trim as it tends to seal stains and knots from the wood better than a latex paint wood. It does take longer to dry than a latex paint though, so plan for more drying time. I personally use an oil based shellac primer on my trim and then opt for a latex paint as the top coat. There are a variety of brands on the market, but my top preference is Behr paint.

Which sheen should I select?

The glossier the paint, the easier it is to clean up. If you have small children and the room you are painting has high traffic, like in a playroom, or tends to get grease on the wall such as in a kitchen, opt for high gloss sheen as you can easily wipe the wall down with a damp sponge. This will however make blemishes and imperfections in your wall more apparent and in rooms such as living rooms, could give off an unpleasant shine. High gloss is also great for trim and will give the trim a nice finished look, complementing the flatter sheen of your walls.

Semi-gloss would also be a good choice for kitchens and baths as well as trim providing you with ease of wash-ability and less shine than the gloss. It is also slightly cheaper than the gloss finish and is a very common alternative. Satin sheens have a satiny smooth finish to them and could also be used in kitchens, baths and hallways. This may be a good choice if you really want some gloss and paint that can clean easily without the shine of a gloss.

If you have walls with lots of imperfections, select a flat or matte paint. You can usually get away with one coat of paint with a flat. The downside to this paint is that it does not stand up well to a good cleaning and does tend to show dirt more so choose this for rooms that will not get lots of fingerprints and dirt on them. Probably the most popular sheen is eggshell, which hides imperfections like a flat does but is easier to wash, so more durable and smoother to the touch. I recommend this for most rooms as it seems to have the best of both the flat and glossy worlds.

Which color should I choose?

If you are in the process of selling your house, I recommend selecting a white or off-white color as the choice for walls. This will allow the buyer to easily cover the wall with their choice of color and will give your rooms a brighter and clean appearance. However, you should take full advantage of the hundreds of paint selections and brochures at your local paint store as well as talk to a salesperson about the various color schemes for the look you want. You can change the feel of any room in your house with a little planning and some color, varying the shades for a certain look or feel.

A good rule of thumb is to remember the color wheel. We all learned about the primary colors in school - red, yellow and blue. These are on the color wheel at 12:00, 4:00 and 8:00 respectively. Combining any of these will give you a secondary color (i.e. purple, orange). Colors near each other on the color wheel such as blue and purple are analogous to each other and will allow one color to stand out more. Colors opposite each other on the color wheel such as green and red are complementary to one another and will nicely play off each other. Staying within the same shade of color (i.e. greens) will give you a subtle and soothing look. Painting with cool colors such as blues, greens and purples makes small rooms appear larger and more airy while colors such as reds, yellows and oranges will give a room a more vibrant appearance. You can vary the warmth even with a red or yellow by choosing muted shades of those colors such as pink, peach or a buttery yellow. Warm colors have cool ones as their complementary colors while cool colors have warm complements. Shades are either pure or vibrant, muted (which are less intense than their vibrant counterparts) or shaded (the darker colors in the same color scheme).

I want a subtle and soothing look:

You can choose to stay within the same shade and use a monochromatic approach such as select a variety of shades of blue for subtle color that tends to be soothing. This tends to look good in a bathroom or a bedroom if you want the feeling of calmness. Just choose your favorite color and overlap the shades. For example, select a darker color for the wall and then another in the same color scheme but different shade and slightly lighter for the trim. Your curtains, towels or bedding as well as accessories such as candles can be varying shades within the same scheme. You can also layer the colors by selecting a lighter green as the basecoat and then do a faux paint with a darker green overlay.

Light color choices such as blues, lavenders, pinks and soft yellows are great choices for a romantic feeling of tranquility and restfulness in a room. If you are looking for a calm ambience in your bedroom, choose lighter shades of either cool or warm colors. Use different textures in your bedding and accessories to make the room even more appealing. Don’t hold to the old rule of one shade and one texture. You will be pleasantly surprised at the effects just changing textures and colors can have on a room.

Colors such as sage can turn a kitchen quickly into one of comfort and shades of buttery yellows in a kitchen will lend to that feeling baked goodies brings. Shades of powdery blue also tend to yield feelings of tranquility.

I want an elegant look:

Neutral colors offer elegance and flexibility within a room. Neutral colors are no longer simply white or beige. You can turn a simple living room into one of elegance by selecting varying shades of neutral colors such as almond walls with red toned browns on the trim. You can also add splashes of color throughout the room with a color throw, pillow or vase carefully placed to offset the subtle neutral tones in the room. Again, don’t be afraid to add texture to your accessories. Neutral colors allow you more flexibility in quickly changing the feel to a room. You can easily change the feel of a neutral room by adding different colored accessories or painting the trim a new color. You can choose either lighter or deeper neutral colors and vary the look of the room. Remember, the lighter color you go, the more spacious the room will appear. Varying shades of rust, mahogany or garnet will offer instant elegance and a feeling of earthiness and richness.

I want a vibrant look:

If you want a room with pizzazz, choose vibrant colors and their respective shades such as oranges and gold, reds and dark purples. You can complement these colors by selecting a two next to each other such as gold and orange and one from the opposite side of the color wheel such as purple. You can also select black and red for a real stand out contrast and look that is reminiscent of an Oriental look. Choose two colors next to each other on the color wheel for a visual contrast as one will stand out from the other.

Ceilings:

You can lower a high ceiling visually by painting it a darker shade than the walls. By the same token, you can expand a room by selecting a lighter color for your ceiling than the walls. Don’t be afraid to add a tint of color to your ceiling paint for a tied in and subtle look. One way to go if you are afraid of too much color in your ceiling is to paint the ceiling, door trim and floor moldings the same shade such as a creamy ivory. This will add a touch of elegance and a nice transition throughout your room.

Creating Focal Points:

Think focal point when you are painting a room. You can quickly change the look of any room by adding contrasting colors to the walls and trim or by adding a darker color to one particular wall. You can make a large room look smaller by painting one wall a darker shade. You can also visually expand a room by painting the walls a darker color and the trim a lighter shade within the same color scheme, especially if you have a room with detailed trim on the walls. This easy change will make the room pop out more visually and add definite appeal. If you have a room with molding halfway between the ceiling and floor, use two different shades of the same color for a wonderful visual contrast. Highlight any interesting aspect in your rooms with a darker, complementary shade to the one you have chosen for your walls. Visible stairways, especially those in the middle of the room look incredible when painted a darker shade than the walls and gives you a wonderful focal point.

You do not have to spend a lot of money on an interior designer to redo the look of your house. With a little paint and a lot of imagination, you can easily change the look and feel of a room. Look for highlights of your rooms and think of ways to make them stand out. Think of how you want to feel when you are inside that room. Do you want to feel romantic and calm? Choose a light warm or cool shade. Or do you want to feel homey and comforted? Select buttery yellows such as for your kitchen. Do you want a feel of calmness and balance? Select shades of green that are light or moss or sage colored. Do you want to feel energized and express your vibrant personality? Choose vibrant shades. Do you want an air of elegance and serenity to a room? Select neutral shades or cool light greens. The point is, you can quickly feel the way you want with a can of paint or two, a paint brush and a little imagination.

Source: DIY Network

The Homemade Pegboard Entryway Organizer That’s Surprisingly Simple to Create (You Can Do It!)

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 00:13:00 GMT

Mornings can be divvied up into things that are hard and things that are easy; sleeping in: easy, deciding what to wear: hard, forgetting your keys as you dash out the door: all-too easy, building an entryway organizer to keep your keys, cards and coats all in one convenient spot: easy peasy! OK, we snuck that last one in there, but hear us out. This beautiful pegboard entryway organizer can be customized to fit any need and creates a space for all of your daily necessities. Best of all, this statement-making organizer is way easier to make than it looks (accepting praise from friends and family on your DIY: super easy).

Materials to Make a DIY Entryway Pegboard

To make this project you’ll need a pegboard, plywood, pencil, drill, dowels, saw, saw guard rail, shelves and a mirror.

Step One: Mark Holes for Pegs

Using the pegboard as a measurement guide, mark through the holes on your plywood board that are 5″ apart using your pencil.

Step Two: Drill Holes Into Plywood Board

Place the plywood on top of scrap wood and drill holes according to the marks. Hold your drill at a 90-degree angle to ensure the holes are completely straight.

Step Three: Cut Dowels

Cut each dowel to 3.75″ in length.

Step Four: Hang Board

Hang your board on your entryway wall.

Step Five: Arrange Dowels on Board

Place your dowels where desired for hanging items and create shelving by placing two dowels along the same row and setting shelves on top. You can also rest a round mirror on top of two dowels to create a small vanity.

Don’t limit yourself to entryway essentials. This pegboard comes in handy in mudrooms for pet accessories, in bedrooms and playrooms for toys and books and bedrooms for robes and catch-all bowls. The opportunities are endless!

Source: HGTV

Clever DIY Gym Shelf

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 21:38:04 GMT

If your new workout routine has you breaking a sweat from home instead of inside a crowded gym, chances are you have a bunch of clutter gathering around your fitness equipment (hello, new stationary bike and dumbbells!). Solve that problem with an easy to build French cleat wall organizer and you’ll be even more motivated to get your sweat on. Read on for seven simple steps to create this snazzy shelf for yourself.

Materials:

● 1 sheet of 3/4” plywood
● 1” solid wood material for frame and individual organizers
● Brad nails
● Wood glue
● Stain and/or finish
● Hardware to hang organizer on the wall (ensure it’s adequate for the weight of the organizer)

Tool Requirements:

● Table saw
● 18-gauge brad nailer
● Tape measure
● Square
● Safety protection (i.e. safety glasses, dust mask, hearing protection)
● Screw driver

Step One: Cut the Plywood

Cut the plywood to your desired size. Keep in mind that the final product will be quite heavy upon completion. This example was four feet wide and three feet high.

Step Two: Create the French Cleats

To create the French cleats, cut 2” pieces from the remaining plywood using the table saw. For this example, you’ll need nine pieces. Then adjust the table saw to 45 degrees and cut a 45-degree bevel on each 2” cleat. Finally, mark out with a pencil and cross cut each cleat to the exact length of the plywood instead of using a tape measure. During this step, make a few extra cleats to use as backing for the organizer units in step five.

Step Three: Attach the French Cleats

Put some glue on the bottom of the first cleat and line it up with the bottom of the plywood using a square. Use brad nails to secure the cleat in place. Use a scrap piece of the 2” plywood to space out the next cleat and repeat the process of gluing and nailing for the remaining French cleats.

Step Four: Create the Frame

For the frame, you’ll be cutting four pieces of 2” wide trim from the 1” solid wood. Measure the top and bottom of the plywood first and then the sides before cutting the lengths. The sides will be longer than the plywood because the width of the top and bottom frame will be added. Once all four sides are cut, glue and brad nail them to the plywood.

Step Five: Build Your Organizer Units

With the remaining 1” solid wood, create whichever type of organizer units will work best for you. To do this, measure, cut, glue and nail together the boxes or shelves. Once the shelves and boxes are created, using the spare cleats you made in step two, cut them to their appropriate lengths for each organizer unit and attach them to the back of each unit using glue and brad nails. Check that the cleats will be “level” by making sure they are the same distance away from the top of the unit, along the entire length of the cleat.

Step Six: Apply the Final Touches and Secure to Wall

Sand everything down for a nice smooth finish. Apply a stain colour of your choice to the entire organizer as well as the organizer units. Follow the directions of the chosen stain for the best results. Attach the hardware that you’ve chosen for the organizer to the back of the organizer and to the wall. Remember to ensure it is adequate to handle the weight. The hardware should be screwed into wooden studs when possible. For this organizer, a low profile aluminum French cleat was used, which can be found at specialty woodworking stores. And finally… hang your new shelf!

Step Seven: Decorate!

Position each unit where you’d like and fill it up with your personal items. The best thing about a French cleat organizer design is that it’s modular: you can add and subtract different units/shelves whenever your needs for the organizer change.

Source: HGTV

3 Easy and Elegant Ways to Decorate Your Halloween Mantel

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 13:50:23 GMT

Whether your tastes run towards a more traditional, harvest-inspired arrangement or a spooky, Hitchcockian display, October is a great time to change up your fireplace decorations. To help you choose your mood, I’ve created three easy looks using the season’s bounty and simple accessories found around the house: pumpkins, gourds, Spanish moss, Chinese lanterns, paper cut-outs and tabletop accessories. Here, inspiration for your October mantel makeover…

Gothic Chic

The great thing about going Gothic for the season is getting both the spook and the romance. A traditional Gothic mantelpiece is easily achieved by arranging any number and manner of objects with an antique look, such as silver and pewter candlesticks, pitchers and vessels, along with shapely seasonal gourds and unkempt foliage. Chinese lantern flowers and small pumpkins still on the vine add a bright spot of colour.

Spanish moss ties all the elements together while black feathers and a store bought bat garland (West Elm) make the mantelpiece Halloween ready.

A Painterly Still Life

A traditional mantelpiece that’s more sophisticated than creepy works well throughout the month of October. And it couldn’t be simpler: layer a selection of pumpkins and gourds in a simple colour palette, with Spanish moss and simple Mason jar lanterns. Here, creamy white pumpkins and soft blue green gourds make a painterly statement that is reminiscent of an 18th-century Dutch still life.

Tip: It’s important when using similar elements, such as these gourds, to create some sense of variation. Mix in wood pedestals, cake stands, gold or bronze vases, and stack gourds on top of each other to create a difference in height.

Creating Illusions

Take your inspiration from classic thriller films like Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds or The Crow and decorate your mantelpiece with a throng of paper cut-out birds. Place them strategically around your fireplace to give the impression they are swooping in for the kill, or pecking at treats you have left out.

Dishes filled with licorice candy and other sweet treats is an easy and inexpensive way to fill your mantelpiece with Halloween goodness. Keep your accessories dark or black, such as skull candles, twilight hued gourds, and black feathers to complete that eerie look. If you run out, you can always spray paint some impromptu thrift store finds or forgotten trinkets hiding in the cupboards (everybody’s got some!).

Source: HGTV

Baseboards, Doors and Trim: Should You Paint Them White?

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 13:17:56 GMT

I’m not sure when it happened, but at some point during the last century it seems a decorating law was passed that required the vast majority of all baseboards, mouldings, trim and doors to be painted white. It didn’t matter what white – it had to be white. Painting doors and trim white shines a spotlight on these items, and unless they possess a degree of architectural interest, they probably don’t deserve to be centre stage. The fact is, whether you believe white is the absence or confluence of all colours, it can often do a disservice to your wall colour: many grey/blue walls have been transformed into a juvenile baby blue, and reds made harsh and unwelcoming, when trimmed with white. White can rob colours of their complexities, and it’s the wall colour that takes the fall because all the white is doing is looking clean, sparkling and innocent.

Before we fell under the spell of white trim, homes across the globe had trim that was painted darker than the walls. In fact, it wasn’t unusual for doors, trim and especially baseboards to be painted black. The thinking was that people would inadvertently kick, damage, or get fingerprints all over them and they would likely be covered in dirt and dust. Sound reasoning, actually. Well, perhaps you’re not ready to paint your trim, doors et al black, but here are some different approaches to consider when choosing a colour for trim.

Use a shade, Tint or Tone of the Wall Colour

Using a lighter (tint), darker (shade) or greyed-out (tone) version of your wall colour is an excellent way to complement your wall. If you choose a paint from a typical sample strip, you can usually go up or down one colour to find your tint or shade, you will probably find your tone, the colour with grey added, on a different strip. The issue of the grey/blue wall becoming baby blue with white trim is solved when the trim is a pale grey/blue – at first glance this technique gives the look of white trim, but because it now shares pigment with the wall, the two work together to reinforce the colour scheme without competing. Going darker with a shade or tone is also a safe bet that deliver high impact results.

Paint Trim and Doors the Same Colour as the Walls

This is an advisable option when trim and doors have minimal features worth highlighting, and a particularly good idea for small spaces, where you don’t want to interrupt the eye as it travels across the room. Breaks in colour create subconscious pauses as we view a space, and the room becomes a series of blocks of colour rather than a more desirable continuous flow. A subtle break can be created by using a glossier finish on the trim. Painting walls and trim the same colour can create a very cozy, enveloping effect.

Choose a Different Colour Altogether

A yellow room gives you the feeling of an English cottage when paired with a classic deep blue trim, while a rich red dining room will assume an old world elegance with taupe trim and a green living room could look fabulous alongside French grey. Painting your trim a contrasting colour is a more daring approach: you will need to tie in both colours with the decor, and your colour choices will need to be well thought out. But, when done well, the effect can be whimsical, elegant or stately – depending on your design objective. You can pick colours that complement each other, or stick with one from the neutral family and have a little fun with the other. This technique can be used if you want neutral walls – your trim can be the source of colour. And, don’t rule out black – black trim can create a stunning and dramatic effect with very little effort.

Let’s lift the ban on pigment-infused doors and trim and pick colours that will imbue every element in your room with personality. You put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into choosing your wall colour, so optimize your hard work with trim that pulls its weight in your design scheme.

Source: HGTV

15 Hot Bedroom Decorating Styles and Tips

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 17:52:53 GMT

When it comes to your bedroom’s décor, the best trend is always to do what makes you comfortable and what you love. From overall design styles to individual elements, you're sure to find inspiration for your next update. They are all very livable, with nothing too extreme or fussy, and there's a little something to match anyone's style.

Here are some styles to consider for your next bedroom redecorating.

This isn’t the country-cutesy look of the 1990s, nor is it the rough farmhouse where your Grandma grew up. This style is known as modern farmhouse and it works as well in the bedroom as it does in the kitchen.

It shows off traditional elements of classic country, including metal beds, distressed wood, and painted wood-clad walls. It also incorporates touches of contemporary style: a lack of clutter, a soft color scheme, and modern and industrial accessories, like this bedroom from Hendricks Churchill.

Rustic is not easy to define because it's as much a feeling as a style. Essentially, it comes down to natural materials in an unprocessed state or materials that are returning to their natural state through age and use.

It has an overall casual style. Key elements include distressed wood, a palette of natural and neutral tones, touches of fur or stone, textured fabrics, and primitive accessories.

Rustic doesn’t mean uncomfortable or devoid of contemporary touches. Feel free to pile your bed with thick coverlets and soft sheets and add contemporary lighting. You can also add a few rustic pieces to an otherwise traditional room.

Midcentury modern was at its height from the 1950s through the 1970s. It's made a comeback in living and dining rooms, and it's perfect for the bedroom.

Long, low furniture with thin legs, clean lines, and a streamlined appearance are hallmarks of this style. It also includes “modern” elements such as molded plastic, chrome, and pops of bright color and geometric patterns.

The overall look is uncluttered, but large pieces of colorful artwork on the walls are a must. You can add accents in the typical orange, red, yellow, or blue of the period, like this cozy room featured on Decoist from Brad Ford ID. A rounded butterfly chair or nightstands perched on chrome legs are nice touches as well.

Scandinavian

Scandinavian decorating style covers a lot of ground. What it all has in common is a casual, simple, clean vibe, along with a heavy emphasis on white. Scandinavian bedroom décor boasts these characteristics.

If you shop at Ikea, you’re familiar with this look. It’s functional, it’s uncluttered, and it uses lots of texture to add warmth. It is also without excessive trim, adornment, or curved lines. Yet it’s not cold or sterile; rather, it’s welcoming, cozy, and even a little bit romantic.

Whether you live in a converted warehouse or you just want to pretend that you do, the industrial decorating style is for you. This is a look that celebrates raw energy, youthful excitement, and “I make my own rules” individuality. Continue this energy in an industrial-style bedroom.

One of the key elements of this style is exposed construction elements, such as water pipes, heating vents, concrete floors, and brick walls. While the typical industrial palette leans towards gray, black, and other dark hues, there’s plenty of room to add color through artwork or accessories.

Hollywood Regency isn’t a look for the timid or reserved—this is all-out glamour. It’s a look born during Hollywood’s glamorous heyday of the 1930s. It is full of the glitz, opulence, and expensive sensibilities of the period.

You’ll find lots of luxurious fabrics, such as velvet, silk, satin, or brocade along with fur, lace, and suede. Lacquered or mirrored furniture is an essential part of the look. Oversized upholstered headboards, beaded lampshades, chandeliers, and cushy, thick area rugs round out the luxurious feeling.

Technically, vintage means anything made more than 20 to 100 years ago. However, in the decorating world, it generally refers to styles popular during the 1940s and 1950s.

That still covers a lot of ground, but most people decorating a bedroom with vintage finds focus on the feminine and romantic look. Wrought iron beds, vintage bedding, mint green or white painted furniture, curved lines, and ornate trim are all common to this look.

Quite often, vintage pieces are added to other styles, such as shabby chic or eclectic bedrooms, as well.

Part design theme, part philosophy, the minimalist bedroom has been hot for years. It shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon.

Paring your bedroom down to the essentials doesn’t mean living in a bare box. Instead, it means getting rid of clutter and fuss while surrounding yourself with peace and simplicity. A limited color scheme, furniture with clean lines, and a platform bed without a headboard are typical of the minimalist bedroom.

Zen

While not technically a decorating style, Zen is an Asian-influenced look that is very simple, clean, and tranquil. It is a great setting for relaxing and getting a night of restful sleep.

Along with the obvious Asian designs in the furnishings and artwork, you’ll find an emphasis on airy, open space. It includes few (if any) collectibles or clutter and a soft nature-infused palette and overall vibe. Natural fabrics and materials, minimal window coverings, and houseplants are must-haves in this theme.

Take the rustic warmth of a log cabin and add it to a bedroom with contemporary furniture. The result is a bedroom style that is warm and peaceful, but not overly sentimental or fussy.

If that appeals to you, distressed wood paneling in a room with otherwise contemporary furniture is right on trend.

This is not the dark paneling of a 1970s basement. This is plank paneling—wide boards that look like they came straight from an old barn. It's perfect for a focal wall in a rustic or modern farmhouse room. And, if that’s too much primitive wood for you, try a plank headboard instead like this chic one from Better Homes and Garden.

Strong color has long been a hot trend and it will be around for quite a while longer. For bedroom walls, deep navy or indigo blue, dark gray, and rich chocolate brown are popular choices. These are all soothing, subdued hues that create a peaceful, relaxing vibe that's so important in the bedroom.

Bold walls make a strong statement, like in this room from Our Fifth House, so it's important that your choice is not harsh, overly intense, or bright. If you don’t want to go all out and paint the walls, use touches of dark color as accents throughout your bedroom.

For a few years, cool tones of silver, chrome, and pewter were the decorating stars. The pendulum has swung in the opposite direction and warm metals are having their time in the spotlight.

Gold and copper are especially hot, but you don’t want to overdose on the metallic trend. A little bit of shine goes a long way, especially in the bedroom.

Feel free to mix metals, but limit them to just a few accents throughout the room. Go with a bedside lamp or ceiling fixture, curtain rods or picture frames, furniture trim or collectibles.

The four-poster bed is a classic style, and you cannot go wrong with one of these beauties in your bedroom. The contemporary four-poster is clean, simple, and often without a canopy. It has a completely different feel from the ornate Tuscan or country styles that were popular in the past.

There’s something cozy about curling up in a four-poster bed. It’s as if you’re in a cocoon or your own little world. That's why it is one of your best options when it comes to setting a romantic bedroom vibe.

If your ceiling sports nothing fancier than a light bulb covered by a glass bowl fixture, it’s time to upgrade. The contemporary style calls for a statement light fixture. It's a strong touch that is enough to liven up an otherwise quiet bedroom.

The style is up to you—chandelier, oversize hanging shade, unique sculptural fixture, or something whimsical and fun. The only requirement is that the fixture is large enough and bold enough to attract the eye when someone enters the room.

Wallpaper is back and it's better than ever. Designs today are larger and brighter than the fussy, small patterns you might remember from a few decades ago.

Whether you cover one wall or all four, look for strong color, geometric designs, textured wallpaper, or oversize florals. You can also choose an easily removable wallpaper to liven up the walls of a rental or to change the pattern when you grow tired of it

Source: The Spruce

7 Things That Won't Increase Your Home Value

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 15:57:28 GMT

Homeowners often assume that upgrades and renovations always increase their place's value and make it more sellable. But while many home improvements can add to a house's appeal, they may not, in fact, add value and, in some cases, could even act as a detriment when the property goes on the market. Here are seven of the most common home improvements that could turn out to be mistakes.

Extensive Professional Landscaping

You can build an entire amusement park in your backyard and it won't bring you big bucks upon resale. If you want to put in a waterfall that cascades down into a koi pond, do it because you enjoy the water feature, not because you're hoping to recoup the investment. Landscaping choices are a personal preference, and all the hand-crafted bridges and unique pergolas in the world won't dramatically boost your bottom line. And some buyers will inevitably see only the money required to keep that beautiful backyard well maintained.1

Upgrading the Utilities

Although you may have paid thousands to install new copper or PEX plumbing, replace your sewer lines or septic system, or upgrade the electrical wiring to Romex or conduit, it's unlikely to bring you more dollars. These types of utility improvements are considered home maintenance—and your neighbors probably made them years before you. Of course, getting everything state-of-the-art isn't a bad idea: In certain areas, top-of-the-line is considered the standard, and without it, you could take a hit when selling time comes.

But don't convince yourself these upgrades will let you mark up the price tag.2

New HVAC

Many buyers in the marketplace appreciate a home that features a brand-new furnace or HVAC system, but they won't pay you much extra for having replaced it. However, if the HVAC system is particularly energy-efficient, you should use that as a selling point; it may make a potential buyer more excited about purchasing your home.3

New Roof

The same holds true regarding a new roof: Replacing a roof past its average life expectancy of 30 years is considered a maintenance issue and won't necessarily enable you to up your asking price. But giving buyers who are on the fence the peace of mind that they won't have to make that costly repair anytime soon could spur them to make an offer.2

Swimming Pool or Hot Tub

The TV commercials for pools and hot tubs depict children having a blast splashing around and adults sipping cocktails in the bubbling water. Sadly, though, the cost and expense of aquatic amenities almost never find their way back into your pocket.4 Many people won't buy a home with a swimming pool. They don't want to deal with the upkeep or safety issues. In fact, as part of negotiations, a buyer might insist that you tear out the pool or whirlpool. If you want to install a pool or hot tub, do it because you will enjoy it, not because it will pay off when it's time to sell.

Making Quickly Dated Decor Changes

You might like white appliances and white ceramic counters, for example, but young home buyers do not. They are no longer "in." And don't go down the road of rose gold bathroom fixtures and door hardware. Even 12-inch-by-12-inch ceramic flooring has lost its appeal to some. The point is, don't deliberately decorate in the latest style for resale reasons. Fashion just changes too fast.5

Solar Panels

Sure, the salespeople at the solar panel company tell you that installing solar panels will enhance your home's value, but that's often not true. Going solar may be an admirable thing for the environment, but it usually does nothing for your residence's selling price. Moreover, if you have financed the solar panels, you probably can't sell the home without paying off the balance at closing, something that often is not disclosed.6

The Bottom Line

Some homeowners are devastated to find out that the improvements they invested in—and perhaps borrowed money for—not only do not improve the value of their property but might actually detract from it. Fortunately, while most of these enhancements won't help you turn a bigger profit, they probably won't hurt, either—and they might make it easier to sell your home by giving the buyer peace of mind. Just don't confuse buyer peace of mind with an elevated price tag.

Source: The Balance

Top 10 Rules for Staging Homes from The Stagers

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 03:11:00 GMT

1. Grab them from the curb.

You've seen them. Buyers hunkered low in their cars in front of your house, doing drive-bys before deciding whether to request a showing or attend an open house. Make these potential buyers fall in love with your home from the street by adding potted plants and flowers, power-washing patios and walkways, weeding the garden and mowing the lawn. It's your first chance to make a good impression, so you've got to make it count.

2. Make it sparkle.

Pretend that your mother or mother-in-law is coming for a visit. Think hotel clean. Mop, dust, vacuum, wash windows, baseboards — even the cat. Remember that people will look in your cupboards, under your sinks and in your closets. Also, pay particular attention to odors. You might even consider consulting a neutral nose by having a friend come by for a smell test.

3. Pay attention to color and light.

You may love hot pink in the living room, but too-bright colors turn buyers off. Neutralize strong colors for the broadest appeal. A neutral home appears larger and has less chance of offending someone. Also, open up blinds and draperies to make sure there's sufficient natural light throughout the home. Remember, lighting is the most effective way to set a mood.

4. Depersonalize.

Not only can an area rug hide shabby flooring, but it can also bring in added color and depth to a space.

Few things deter buyers more than a cluttered home. They need to see your home, not your stuff. Excessive personal items like photos, collections, personal awards, electronics and collectibles will make it difficult for buyers to see past your personal style and may deter a sale. Taking yourself out of the picture makes it easier for buyers to imagine themselves, and their stuff, in your space.

5. Consider replacing furnishings.

Think about removing or replacing worn or outdated furnishings and get rid of extra pieces. The time has come to move beyond matching furniture, so break up your sets; dated can easily become eclectic with editing and rearranging. Consider consulting with a professional staging company for design direction and advice on rental furnishings to create an inviting home with broad appeal to a wide range of buyers.

6. Invest in new artwork.

Displaying new artwork is a great way to breathe new life into a room. Photography can be used to contemporize a room and add a splash of color as well.

7. Make repairs.

Make your home a high-maintenance zone. Repair squeaky doors, chipped or smudged paint as well as broken fixtures and fittings that you've neglected.

8. Apply a fresh coat of paint.

It's the best bang for your buck that will quickly refresh a dull, dated room. Slap a fresh, neutral color on the space. Choose a beige or taupe for living spaces and a neutral green or blue for bathrooms.

9. Don't forget the floors.

Get rid of worn carpets, and consider refinishing shabby hardwood floors. An inexpensive new area rug is a quick fix and can disguise the look of old floors.

10. Spring for new light fixtures.

Renew the look of the room by replacing old or dated light fixtures, door hardware, light switches and outlets. If it's tacky and older than you, get it out of there.

Source: HGTV

Spa-Inspired Master Bathroom

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:06:00 GMT

When it comes to remodeling your bathroom, the process of narrowing down the options is daunting. You can’t afford to do it all—no matter how much luxury you build into the space, there’s always “just one more thing” you could add. That’s why taking the time to seriously review how you use the space and setting goals for your remodel will keep you on track as you make important decisions about floor plan, fixtures, tile and more.

While you’re brainstorming ideas for your new bathroom, cut out pictures from magazines and learn about various bathroom design layouts to gain inspiration. “When my clients bring pictures and have thought about their dream bathrooms, it gives me direct insight as to what they are looking for and helps me understand what they are envisioning for the project,” says Lori Carroll, president, Lori Carroll & Associates, Tucson, Ariz.

The bathroom sanctuary is more than just a toilet, sink, shower and/or tub. The master bathroom, especially, is where you can get away from it all and unwind at the end of the day. It’s a place to soak away your worries, perhaps by candlelight or with soft music playing in the background. When you step out of the tub, your feet touch a naturally warm surface, and you can easily access bath linens. You step up to a vanity with a sink that pours water without splashing, and cabinets contain your appliances already plugged in (how convenient!). You’re not in a hurry—but if you were, you’d hop into the shower (water temperature pre-programmed) and go.

The master bathroom design is equally about function and setting a relaxing mood. Chances are, this room is shared and space allowances must be made for two. “We are seeing master bathrooms and dressing rooms being designed at the same time,” says Cameron Snyder, president, Roomscapes Luxury Design Center, Boston, Mass., and past-president of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). He notes that the dressing room often serves as the entryway to the master bath.

Questions to ask

Here are some questions and considerations to ponder as you dream up your future master bath:

How many adults will use the space at one time?
What activities aside from usual bathroom fare take place in this room?
Do you want to incorporate a dressing room?
Do you prefer to take a bath or shower?
Would you rather have more counter space or two vanity sinks?
Do you have enough space or do you want the bathroom to be larger?
What features are currently in the bathroom that you would like to remove?
What features would you like to add to your new master bath?
Are there enough electrical outlets to suit your needs?
Which areas need better lighting?
What type of storage do you want/need?
What color scheme do you prefer?

Choosing Features

Spacious Showers

Today’s showers can include body sprays, rain shower heads, hand showers, multiple shower heads, therapeutic lights, seats, and infinity drains. A step-in shower without a curb (Roman style shower) is safe for people of all ages. Some are choosing to bundle the shower and tub in a “room,” by placing the freestanding tub in the center of the shower zone, explains Brian Johnson, principal, Collaborative Design Architects, Billings, Mt. The room’s dimensions can be 6 x 8 or 6 x 9 feet. “The tub floats in that shower space and it looks very sculptural,” Johnson says of the completely tiled area within the master bath.

Deep soaker tubs

Tubs are optional in the master bath. But if a good soak is how you like to unwind, you can add bubbly with today’s effervescent tubs and those featuring heated air jets that emit warmth and bubbles. These are replacing water-jet tubs. Also, tubs are less likely to be positioned in a corner where they take up valuable square footage. Tubs are smaller but still made for two. “You might want to consider a separate water heater for the tub if you use it often,” suggests Ken Perrin, president, Artistic Renovations, Cleveland, Ohio.

Separate toilet rooms

Hiding the loo behind closed doors within the master bath gives everyone more privacy, especially when the space will be used by more than one person at a time. Ventilation and lighting are key in this closed off space, and it’s nice to a dedicated vanity with storage if possible.

Vanity privacy

Dual sink vanities gain privacy when a shelving unit is posited between the sinks.

Sink style

Undermounted sinks offer a sleek look and make countertop cleanup a cinch.

Heated floors. Nothing says luxury like stepping on to a warm, tile floor. Radiant heat can be placed below tiles for a reasonable price—Perrin estimates about $600 or less in a small 5x9 bathroom. Johnson notes that radiant heat mats that don’t use a lot of energy are an option for specific areas in the bathroom.

Other considerations

A natural color scheme will create a timeless, peaceful environment, from fixtures to tile. Recycled glass tiles are “here to stay,” according to Perrin, and placed sporadically throughout the bathroom, they provide interest without making the space busy.

Other features to consider:

Cabinets that look like furniture pieces with footed legs and antique detail
Steam showers
Tile that scales the entire wall, borrowed from European design
An upholstered chair or loveseat
Magazine rack
Television or stereo system built into cabinetry (or behind the mirror in the case of the TV)
Heated towel racks—or, as an alternative, a warming drawer that would be installed in a kitchen can efficiently do the job of warming linens in the bathroom
Expanded windows and skylights to let in natural light
The use of Japanese-style screening in walls separating the toilet and rest of bathroom so the space feels open yet private.

Source: HGTV

Top 6 Kitchen Layouts

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 04:23:05 GMT

Here's a guide to the pros and cons of the most popular kitchen layouts.

Basic Kitchen Layout Types

One-Wall Kitchens

Originally called the "Pullman kitchen," the one-wall kitchen layout is generally found in studio or loft spaces because it’s the ultimate space saver. Cabinets and appliances are fixed on a single wall. Most modern designs also include an island, which evolves the space into a sort of Galley style with a walk-through corridor.

Galley Kitchen Remodel Ideas

This efficient, “lean” layout is ideal for smaller spaces and one-cook kitchens. The galley kitchen, also called a walk-through kitchen, is characterized by two walls opposite of each other—or two parallel countertops with a walkway in between them. Galleys make the best use of every square inch of space, and there are no troublesome corner cabinets to configure, which can add to a cabinetry budget.

L-Shaped Kitchen Designs

An L-shaped kitchen solves the problem of maximizing corner space, and it’s a smart design for small and medium sized kitchens. The versatile L-shaped kitchen consists of countertops on two adjoining walls that are perpendicular, forming an L. The “legs” of the L can be as long as you want, though keeping them less than 12 to 15 feet will allow you to efficiently use the space.

With an L-shaped layout, you’ll eliminate traffic: The kitchen will not become a thoroughfare because it’s just not logistically possible. Plus, you can easily add a dining space and multiple work zones to this layout. However, avoid this layout if your kitchen is large and can support other configurations, such as adding an island, or if multiple cooks will be using the space.

Horseshoe Kitchens

The horseshoe, or U-shape, kitchen layout has three walls of cabinets/appliances. Today, this design has evolved from three walls to an L-shaped kitchen with an island forming the third “wall.” “This design works well because it allows for traffic flow and workflow around the island,” says Mary Jo Peterson, principal, Mary Jo Peterson Inc. “You can get more cooks into the kitchen.”

Kitchens With Islands

A working kitchen island may include appliances and cabinetry for storage—and it always adds additional work surface to a kitchen. It can provide a place to eat (with stools), to prepare food (with a sink) and to store beverages (with a wine cooler). The island can turn a one-wall kitchen into a galley style, and an L-shaped layout into a horseshoe.

Kitchen islands are incredibly functional, but the No. 1 misperception about islands is that everyone ought to have one. The reality is, many kitchens simply don’t have enough clearance to include this feature.

Peninsula Kitchens

A peninsula kitchen is basically a connected island, converting an L-shaped layout into a horseshoe, or turning a horseshoe kitchen into a G-shaped design. Peninsulas function much like islands but offer more clearance in kitchens that do not allow appropriate square footage for a true island.

Five easy upgrades for your porch and patio

Sun, 05 Jul 2020 05:19:13 GMT

With daylight stretching into early evenings and warm weather headed our way, it’s time to focus on your outdoor space for the season.

Here are five easy ideas for a porch and patio upgrade:

1. Add plants.

Don’t limit your greenery to the garden. One of the fastest ways to freshen up a patio or porch space is to add plants. Consider placing a few planter boxes filled with flowers beneath your windows or add pots with greenery on either side of your front door for a welcoming entrance. If you’re lacking space on the ground, install a few hooks in the ceiling of your porch or beneath your raised deck and hang baskets with trailing plants and vines.

Tip: If you’re a beginner, cultivate your green thumb with a few hard-to-kill plant varieties. Marigolds, violets and pansies are hardy flowers that work well in containers. Check the care label on your plant to make sure it will thrive in your home.

2. Bring inside decor outside.

Indoor-outdoor living gets more popular each year as homeowners look for ways to bring nature into their daily lives. It’s helped more decor options for your outdoor space are better than ever. Bring the indoors out by adding sturdy, rust-resistant furniture to your porch or patio. Then, increase comfort and add a few pops of color with weather-resistant pillows and cushions. Illuminate your entertainment area with string fairy lights so guests can stay well past sunset.

Tip: If you have a smaller space, consider adding a sturdy outdoor mirror to your porch or patio — it can make the area seem much larger than it really is. Avoid a fire hazard by placing the mirror out of direct sunlight. And make sure the reflection won’t confuse the flight patterns of passing birds.

3. Incorporate appliances.

Whether you’re looking to add a second kitchen or need a convenient spot to wash up after a swim, more appliances are available for outdoor use. Everything from outdoor fridges and stovetops to showers are now available. Even electronics such as speakers and televisions are available in weatherproof versions to expand your living space.

4. Get some privacy.

Create a private, enclosed sanctuary on your porch or patio, and add some shade to your space, with decorative lattice or outdoor drapes. If you’d like to try a more natural solution, consider planting some trees around the yard to shield your home from the hot sun — and prying eyes. Even a small trellis with climbing vines can make a big difference in the look and feel of the area. For a more permanent solution, consider adding a screened-in porch to your property.

5. Invest in fun upgrades.

Treat yourself to a few fun things — a fire pit can make your patio area an instant gathering place that you can enjoy even on chilly nights. Or consider hiring a pro to install colourful outdoor tile to make the space pop. You can also look into increasing your outdoor seating options with fun pieces like hammocks or porch swings.

Source: The Star

8 Budget Curb Appeal Projects

Sun, 05 Jul 2020 05:11:19 GMT

Glam the Front Door

Adding pizzazz to your home's front entrance is an easy, low-cost way to up your home's curb appeal. Try painting your door a pretty hue that coordinates with your home's color. "Make sure there is a contrast between the front door and the facade of the home," says Kristine Ginsberg, owner of Elite Staging and Redesign in Morris County, N.J. If your house is gray or white with black shutters, consider painting the front door red, she suggests. Other ways to beautify your home's exterior are adding appealing house numbers to your entrance and hanging a pretty wreath on the door. For extra pop, place a potted plant or two by the front entrance.

Approximate cost: A gallon of paint for the front door will cost as little as $25. Metal house numbers can be purchased for less than $4 each, while a potted mini evergreen like boxwood or a dwarf Alberta Spruce could run you less than $20.

Manicure the Lawn

Tending to your lawn is a do-it-yourself task that can add instant curb appeal to your home. Get out the lawn mower, cut the grass regularly and conquer those weeds. "I think it's always a great idea to edge your lawn for a professional look," Kristine suggests.

If you need to green your lawn in a hurry for an open house or for showings to potential buyers, you can spray your lawn with a green lawn spray paint that's especially formulated for grass, is nontoxic and is environmentally safe. You can do it yourself, or hire a professional lawn painting service.

Approximate cost: No cost to you, unless you bring in a professional to cut or green your lawn. If you artificially green your lawn on your own, you can get a quart of lawn paint, which covers up to 1,000 square feet, for less than $30. Lawn sprayers are available at a variety of price levels, but some are sold for less than $20.

Tend Those Beds

Groomed garden beds tell buyers that a home has been well maintained. Start out by weeding your planting beds and removing any debris. Buy a few bags of mulch and spread enough of it to cover the width and length of your home's front beds. The mulch will give your landscaping a fresh appearance and will keep weeds to a minimum while retaining moisture for your plants.

Try planting some annual flowers like pansies, black-eyed Susans, impatiens and petunias for quick and long-lasting color. The flowers can be bought already in bloom in low-cost flats of 12 to 48 flowers at garden and home improvement stores. "Annuals grow quickly, are inexpensive and bloom longer," Kristine says.

Consider planting brightly colored annuals in the spring and summer and plant flowers with autumn hues (reds, oranges and yellows) in the fall, suggests Joanna Seidler Farber, a Realtor associate with Davis Realtors in East Brunswick, N.J. "Changing it up every so often gives a fresh new feel and look," she adds.

Approximate cost: A 2-cubic-foot bag of mulch can be purchased for $3 or less. Online mulch calculators, like the one available from the National Gardening Association, will help you calculate how much mulch you need to purchase. Meanwhile, a flat of annuals could cost you less than $20, depending on the type of flowers purchased.

Wash Off Dirt

Turn the nozzle on your garden hose to its strongest setting and use the water to blast dirt and debris off sidewalks, your driveway and the front of your home. Be careful not to dislodge or get any water underneath your home's siding. You could rent a power washer at an extra cost, but you probably don't need to go to the trouble — a simple garden hose can do the job, and a power washer can be too powerful and could damage siding.

"If you do use a power washer, don't put it close to windows or doorways," suggests Stephen Boehler, owner of Mr. Handyman of NE Monmouth County in New Jersey. "The pressure can remove caulk and other materials sealing your home."

Cost: Absolutely nothing (minus the cost of water), if you use a garden hose. Renting a power washer will run you about $40 to $75 a day depending on your location and the quality of the equipment. If you'd like to purchase a pressure washer, there are various options available for between $120 and $150 at big home improvement stores.

Tidy Up the Driveway

Buyers won't be impressed by your garbage or recycling containers, so store those on the side of the house (preferably behind a bush, a small fence or a screen) or in the garage. Take care of minor cracks in your driveway by patching or resealing it yourself. Determine how much sealant you'll need by using the length and width of your driveway to calculate its square footage. Then match that up against the product's use recommendations. "Plan on getting 10 percent extra because some areas will absorb more than others," Stephen says. "You can always return unopened pails of sealer."

Stash your car in the driveway or down the block to give your driveway and the approach to your home a neater appearance.

Approximate cost: To DIY seal an average 1,000-square-foot asphalt driveway should cost about $100 to less than $150, depending on the quality of the sealant used.

Make the Windows Sparkle

Clean windows inside and out to make your home sparkle. If your home's windows tilt out, it's quite simple to wash exterior windows. Otherwise, you might need a friend or family member to steady a ladder while you do the work. Try washing outside windows by spraying them with a garden hose to remove dirt and cobwebs. Then sponge them down with a small amount of vinegar or detergent diluted in warm water and rinse. If you need to wash your windows from the outside and your windows don't tilt out, try using a long-handled brush.

Approximate cost: Next to nothing, if you wash the windows yourself. But if your windows are high up and you need to rent a ladder, a 14-foot ladder will cost about $25 to rent for four hours from a big-box home improvement store.

Update Light Fixtures

Removing builder-grade or outdated front door or garage light fixtures will instantly brighten your home's curb appeal. "This is often done by homeowners with a great success rate," Stephen says. "Make sure the breaker inside the electric panel is shut off for where the light is being installed." Before touching any wires, test them with a live-wire testing device, he suggests.

If you don't want to go to the expense of buying new light fixtures, you could try painting or spray-painting your old ones for a fraction of the cost. "If you have outdated light fixtures like 1980s gold, the quickest fix is to paint the light fixture black," says Cindy Lin, general manager/founder of Staged4More Home Staging in South San Francisco.

Approximate cost: A 12-ounce can of spray paint costs less than $8, while attractive wall-mounted exterior lights can be purchased for less than $30 each. A live-wire tester costs less than $20.

Trim Trees and Bushes

Your home needs to be visible from the curb in order to have curb appeal, so cut overgrown bushes and trees, removing branches that block walkways, windows, the driveway and views of the home from the street. "People need to see the front of the house," says Kristine.

Except for very large tree limbs, you most likely can use a pair of hedge or pruning shears for the job. If you don't have your own pair of shears, look into borrowing a set from a friend or neighbor to keep costs down.

Approximate cost: Nothing, if you own a pair of shears, have extra time or have friendly friends or neighbors. If you need to purchase your own shears, expect to pay between $10 and $50.

Source: HGTV

The Ultimate Cleaning Schedule for Your Day, Week, Month, and Year

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 00:43:00 GMT

Raise your hand if you find keeping your home clean totally daunting. Or if you stumble upon dust, rust, or dirt in spots you totally forget about too often for comfort. We get it. Which is why we created this super handy checklist with the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab to help you stay on top of how often you should bust out your cleaners and get to work — but there are a few exceptions to keep in mind.

First of all, the obvious: If something looks dirty, don't wait — add it to your immediate to-do list. Secondly, when it comes to sanitation, our guidelines represent the bare minimum so you can ramp up those tasks as needed. And finally, don't forget about laundry, for which we created separate guidelines to follow.

How to Tackle Everything on Your List

Now that you've got the schedule, read up on our time-saving tips and all-time favorite products that will make these jobs as painless as possible.

Tips for Cleaning Every Day

These essential daily tasks cut down on future scrubbing and scouring — not to mention harmful germs and bacteria.

Clean coffee maker or Keurig: Wash removable parts with warm, soapy water or stick dishwasher-safe pieces in the machine. Wipe down the outside and warming plate to remove spills.

Clean dirty dishes: Skip pre-rinsing. Today's machines and detergents make it unnecessary — and a waste of water and time! Enzymes in your dishwasher detergent actually work better when they can attach themselves to food particles.

Sanitize sinks: Use an eraser-type sponge (like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser) to remove marks, then sanitize by plugging the drain, filling the basin with warm water, and swishing a tablespoon of bleach around. Let it sit for five minutes, then rinse.

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Tips for Cleaning Every Week

Tackle one room or job each day so you're not doing everything all at once. For example, devote Monday to cleaning kitchen messes, bring out the vacuum on Tuesday, make Wednesday the day for changing sheets, and so on.

Clean inside of microwave: Heat a microwave-safe bowl filled with 1 cup of water and several tablespoons of vinegar on high power for several minutes until the window is steamy. Let cool for 5 minutes before opening the door, then remove the bowl, and wipe the inside clean with a sponge.

Scrub bathroom surfaces: We like CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner for grout and Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath for glass, tile, and tub surfaces.

Sanitize sponges: Mix 3/4 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water and soak the sponge for five minutes, then rinse – that's it.

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Tips for Cleaning Every Month

Again, these don't have happen all on the same day, so split up your tasks and delegate jobs to your partner (and kids!).

Clean a washing machine: Use the special washer cleaner cycle on the newer models, or add a specialty cleaner like Affresh and run a normal cycle with hot water.

Clean dishwasher: Descale your machine by filling a large glass measuring cup with 2 cups of vinegar and placing it on the top rack. Then run the machine without detergent or heat dry.

Clean vacuum: Change your bag when it's three-quarters full to keep suction strong and replace the filter if it's very dirty or torn. Snip threads snarled in the brush with scissors or a seam ripper.

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Tips for Cleaning Every 3-6 Months

It's easy to forget about these tasks, so don't let them sneak up on you!

Wash pillows: Put down and fiberfill pillows in the washer and launder two at a time in warm water on a gentle cycle. Add an extra cold water rinse and spin cycle. Then tumble dry on low heat with a few rubber dryer balls.

Clean inside of oven: Wipe loose bits of food with a damp sponge. Then use the self-cleaning function on your oven to remove burnt-on grime. Wash your racks in the sink with warm, sudsy water and a heavy-duty scrub sponge.

Wash shower curtain liner: Launder plastic or vinyl curtains in the machine on the highest water level with a couple bath towels for extra agitation.

Source: Good Housekeeping

Top 5 Bathroom Styling TIps

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 04:13:03 GMT

Renovating a bathroom is expensive and the old adage that bathrooms and kitchens sell houses is very true. For these reasons I always recommend keeping a bathroom renovation simple. Good quality, but classic and timeless, so that you don't tire of it but it will last the distance.

You may feel that this is a bit boring but there is great value in having a clean blank canvass as it is a great backdrop for some individual bathroom styling. This is where you can introduce some style and make the bathroom contemporary and attractive. The best part though is that you can update it with minimal cost and disruption.

Let me show you my 5 top tips for individual bathroom styling:

Introducing Colour and Texture

It can be expensive to tile a bathroom from floor to ceiling and I much prefer to only use tiles in the wet areas and have plastered walls that can be painted. It is a good idea to have a self contained shower, for example at the end of the bathroom or even in a separately designed corner or area.

With freestanding baths that can be positioned away from a wall with a floor tap, you don't need to have as much wall tiling as with a traditional built in bath.

Towel rails, particularly if they are heated, should be on a tiled wall, but there is nothing to say that this should be taken to the ceiling. This is particularly the case if you are fortunate enough to have high ceilings. In the image above, I stopped the tiles at the height of the internal doors and then introduced a soft grey to the wall above.

You can always change the colour of paint – perhaps a stronger, darker tone or even a fresh white. So, by keeping the floor and wall tiles very neutral, you can easily introduce colour in the form of paint to the walls. This means that the look of your bathroom can be freshened up and changed quite dramatically over the course of just a weekend.

Towels are another way to introduce some colour, even if you have white towels with a trim colour, these will give the room personality and just as important to the success of the room, will introduce some texture.

If your bathroom is large enough then you should consider introducing a rug. This can be colourful or neutral depending on your style but again, it is the texture that is important here.

A freestanding bath can look lonely without a timber stool. A handy seat or just a spot to leave the soap tray, whichever use you have for it there is no doubt that the texture and colour in the timber is a nice contrast in a simple white or grey bathroom.

Another benefit to simply painting the walls in your bathroom is that the room looks just that – another room – and you can decorate it with artworks to introduce a homely look.

Layers of Lighting

An entire house benefits from a good lighting plan but this is absolutely essential in a bathroom. In terms of styling this is one way that you can really make a statement.

A bathroom vanity should have wall lights placed at eye level either side of the mirror.

In addition to LED downlights, a pendant can look stunning and again is such an individual and relatively inexpensive way to make a design statement. If you are placing a pendant over a bath though you must check that the voltage is low enough and an electrician will be able to advise you here.

Water and electricity do not mix and there are very definite guidelines which you absolutely must follow when installing a pendant in a bathroom.

LED strip lighting underneath a wall hung vanity is a good idea as this can be left on at night and can be just enough to see by in the dark and saves you turning on the lights, waking yourself up completely and then not being able to get back to sleep!

Freestanding Furniture

My ideal bathroom is one that has space for freestanding furniture. An antique armoire for towels or a beautiful cabinet for storing bathroom items. Not only are they practical but this has to be about the best way to introduce some individual style into the bathroom.

Keep the flooring and walls simple and then you can dress the room as you would any other in a house. If it is large enough, you can add a chair too which makes perfect sense for a space like this.

Accessories

I love to shop for bathroom accessories as there are so many lovely pieces that are available now. Mother of Pearl trays, gorgeous organic shaped timber bowls, or delicate porcelain dishes. Whatever your style, there are items that you can add to transform the look of the space.

Remember though that the mantra of ‘keep it simple, decorate and at the end take one item away' should be employed here.

The last thing you want is for your bathroom to be cluttered. Ensure that the tray, bowl or dish that you employ has a purpose and that your styling vignette doesn't get too busy.

Remember a bathroom attracts condensation and dust from talcum powder and make up so you don't want to set yourself up for too much cleaning!

Rather than installing a built in mirror, consider buying a statement mirror that will help to define the style of the bathroom and also bring in either colour, and/or texture to the space.

Candles are a classic styling accessory and look good styled in groups of three. Large dishes of different soaps, baskets for guest towels and simple silver trays to contain bathroom items or a vignette are ideas to consider.

Finishing with Greenery

Finally, if you have the space, some statement greenery is the perfect complement to a bathroom.

A mood board is what designers use to put a scheme together. This way you can see how colours sit next to each other and you can add and take away ideas. I have a FREE e-book to give you on how to put a mood board together – you can download it here.

Rugs are one of the best styling touches for a bathroom but it can be difficult to visualise how they will work. You can add images to your mood board but if you really want to see what it looks like, Miss Amara has fabulous rugs that you can buy and return if they are not right – and they pay for the pick-up and return to their warehouse.

Source: Making Your Home Beautiful

7 FUN & SIMPLE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 05:32:28 GMT

Summer vacation is in full swing, and we’re soaking up as much outdoor play time as possible. Parks, beaches, our backyard, patio and front yard have turned into canvases for my children’s play and imagination. I absolutely love being able to give them a slew of sidewalk chalk or paint, and see them create whatever they’d like.

Just yesterday, while I was nursing the baby, the house got extra quiet. I came out to find an impromptu fort with my kids and their friends, giggling and playing underneath. Summer really is the essence of what childhood memories are made of.

Lately, our front lawn has become a communal gathering spot. It’s become a place to create, play, imagine and actualize. As the kids have been frequenting our front lawn more, I have been taking prompts outside and watching their fun unfold. These simple outdoor activities have been a source of so much enjoyment, laughter, and joy!

Below is a list of our favorite simple outdoor kids activities that we have enjoyed again and again:

1. Water balloon T-Ball/ Baseball.

Depending on your child’s ability level, grab either your t-ball set or just a baseball bat. Pre-fill a bunch of water balloons. Put them in a laundry basket or plastic tub. Head to the park and invite friends to play!

2. Chalk obstacle course.

All you need is chalk and some vision. For literate children, write out an array of gross motor movements in a sequence, like you would hop scotch. For instance: jump like a bunny x 3, hold tree pose on one side, walk on your hands and feet, jump on one foot, hold tree pose on the other side, jump on the opposite foot, twirl x 2, jump up and try touch the sky x 4

3. Hula hoop race & catch.

This is such a simple activity for kids and it’s SO fun. You will need multiple hula hoops. Head to an area with lots of green space, and have the children line up. Holding the hula hoops vertically, roll them with as much force as you can along the ground. Call out each child’s name and have them run after the hoop to catch it. Every time they bring back a hoop, throw another one! This is amazing hand-eye coordination practice.

4. Sensory scavenger hunt.

Collect items you’re sure to find around the park (wood chips, dandelions, leaves, pebbles), affix them to a piece of paper using tape, and have your children look for those items!

5. Toy-made obstacle course.

Grab hula hoops, a toy tunnel, cones, pylons, and anything else you can think of. Encourage your children to organize the obstacle course in a fun and challenging way.

6. Kitchen utensil bubble wands.

Go through a kitchen drawer and collect slotted spoons, fly swatters, spatulas, and anything else that has holes to make bubbles. Make your own bubble solution and then head out to see which utensil creates the best bubbles!

7. “Bake” mud pies and muffins.

All you need are some utensils, pans, and imagination.

Source: Nature's Path

20 Cheap Ways to Update Your Living Room

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 10:56:49 GMT

If you’re the kind of person who likes to switch up your décor on a regular basis, you know how expensive it can be. But the good news is that it doesn’t have to be costly. There are a lot of easy and inexpensive things you can do to change the look of a room without spending a fortune.

Rearrange the Furniture

This is no doubt the least expensive way to update a room because it’s totally free! Moving the furniture around gives your room a whole new look and can satisfy your need for change without any cost. And if you’re not prepared to move all the furniture try rearranging your accessories and bookshelf displays. You’d be surprised at what a big impact it can have.

Paint

Paint is the most obvious way to give a room a new look, and it will only cost you a few dollars and some time. With paint, you have endless options. You can paint the entire room one color; you can paint a feature wall; or you can paint some type of design such as stripes, chevrons, or stencil work. With paint there are no limits.

Change the Lampshades

Lampshades are like little jewels scattered throughout a room. Change them and you change the mood. Try going from white to black, pleated to flat, or plain to patterned. There are a lot more options available than there used to be so finding something you like shouldn’t be difficult. Try stores like Target, Pottery Barn and Lamps Plus to get an idea of what’s out there. And if you can’t find what you like you can always go custom.

Pillows and Throws

Adding pillows and throw blankets is a great way to add color and texture, and the impact they create can give your room a fresh new look - particularly if you change them with the seasons. Taking away heavy, dark pillows and throws that were cozy in the winter and replacing them with light and fresh versions in the summer can lift and freshen a room instantly.

Hang Artwork

There’s a lot that can be done with artwork, from rearranging existing pieces to creating new ones. What’s on the walls has a big impact. If you don’t currently have anything try framing wallpaper or fabric samples, create washi tape art, or frame pages from old books. The idea that artwork has to be expensive is a myth, so try making your own.

Edit the Clutter

When in doubt, edit. Crowding too many things into a room can make it feel small and claustrophobic. To lighten a space simply remove a few items. Everything needs room to breathe so if your space is feeling tight and you want a new look, edit a few items out.

More Cheap Decorating Ideas

Replace the window treatments
Create a gallery wall with your photos
Replace overhead fixtures with thrift store chandeliers (make sure the wiring is up to code)
Replace all your picture frames with garage sale versions and paint them all the same color.
Find a second-hand mirror and paint the frame to match your space. Hang it across from a window to instantly make your room feel bigger.
Spray paint an existing piece of furniture such as a side table or chair.
Paint doors and trim. Who says they have to be white?
Replace your area rug. Carpet stores often have remnants that can be purchased for very cheap prices.

Source: The Spruce

17 Beautiful and Easy Ways to Transform Your House for Spring

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 18:32:18 GMT

With all the added hours you're spending at home these days because of the pandemic, it's easy to grow tired of the same old surroundings. Well, you've got some extra time on our hands—and it is that time of year—why not use this as an opportunity to change things up a bit? Just remember, spring cleaning doesn't have to be all about boring, tedious decluttering and disinfecting. Sure, those things are essential, especially given what's currently going on in the world, but you don't have to limit yourself to the standard chores on your checklist. Read on for ideas on how you can easily upgrade your home for spring—even while in quarantine.

1 Add some fresh flowers

We could all use a little touch of color right now, so why not brighten things up by adding fresh flowers to your spring update plan this year.

"One of my all-time favorite [ways] to usher in the season is to inundate my home with fresh flowers in beautiful spring colors that pop," says Nicole Gittens, principal designer at New Visions Interiors and Events. "Contain them in simple but interesting clear glass containers and vases so that even the pretty green stems can shine through!"

2 Create entryway vignettes

Brightening you entryway is an easy way to create a welcoming atmosphere for when you return from a stressful venture to the grocery store. "If your entry has a great statement piece you'd like to showcase why not don it with letter boards piped in white, cute spring sayings, fresh flowers, and an assortment of candles in spring scents and hues? Nothing says spring better!" Gittens says. For more home update ideas, check out 27 Amazing Home Upgrades for Every Budget.

3 Construct a gallery wall

If you're tired of sitting in the same space all day you can easily reenergize it by creating a gallery wall. Order a few matching or complementary frames, sketch and measure where you want them to go on your wall, and hang them up using Command Strips so you can change their placement quickly and easily without damaging your walls. If you already have art hanging on your wall simply rearranging its placement could make the space feel like new.

4 Use LED light bulbs

Consider replacing any incandescent light bulbs in your home with energy-efficient LED (light emitting diodes) bulbs while you're changing things for spring. Not only do LEDs cast a brighter light than their incandescent counterparts, but they'll also spring clean your energy bill—an LED can run for 25 times as long as incandescent bulbs and cost much less to run. And for more ways to go green at home, check out 30 Easy Ways to Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly.

5 Try peel-and-stick wallpaper

You don't have to break out the paintbrushes to give your space a whole new vibe in minutes. Peel-and-stick wallpaper makes it easy to completely change the feel and look of a room—and better yet, if that paper feels dated a year down the line, you can remove it without damaging your walls.

6 Repaint your front door

Want an easy upgrade you can do without breaking the bank? Order some paint, put on your overalls, and break and give your front door a fresh look with a more appealing hue. A little tip before you get started: If you're hoping to sell your home in the next few years, it pays to be discerning about your color choice, though: according to Zillow, homes with dark gray or black front doors tend to sell at a higher value.

7 Add some window boxes

While you're stuck inside, you might as well enjoy the view when you look gaze out the windows of your home. Window boxes are an inexpensive addition—you can get them for under $8 at Home Depot—that will instantly brighten the look of your home and provide a place to grow and showcase your favorite plants and flowers for years to come.

8 Update your throw pillows

If your throw pillows have become faded or are starting to resemble something like a pancake because of all the extra use they're currently getting, it may be time to sub them out. "Swap out your darker pillows with heavier textures, such as velvets, for lighter colors and springier materials, such as linens," Gittens says. "It will give your rooms a much crisper feel." If you're looking for an even bigger project, take a shot at making your own pillow covers.

9 Swap out dark curtains for sheer panels

Those heavy, dark curtains may have served their purpose by keeping your house warmer during winter, but now that spring has sprung, it's time to let the sunshine in. Try changing things up with some sheer panels and your home will feel brighter in no time. And with all the time you've been required to spend indoors, getting plenty of vitamin D is more important than ever.

10 Turn your windowsill into a living landscape

This is the perfect time to bring the outdoors inside. Make the most of that springtime sunshine by turning your windowsills into a home for some potted plants. Not only will this add some instant visual appeal to your home, research even suggests that indoor plants can improve people's moods.

11 Hang a front door wreath

Who says that wreaths are only for the holidays? Putting up a springtime wreath can make your home feel more festive without breaking the bank. And if you're feeling crafty and creative, try making your own—it will give your home's exterior a charming personal touch.

12 Refinish your cabinets

You don't need to fully remodel your kitchen to make it feel like a brand new space. Refinishing your cabinets and giving them a new stain or a fresh coat of paint gives you fun project to tackle that will completely change the look and feel of your home.

13 Add new drawer pulls

Want to give your kitchen a five-minute makeover, but you don't know where to start? Try adding new drawer pulls. That's right, swapping out outdated wooden or brass handles and knobs on your cabinets can refresh the room in no time—on a tiny budget, to boot.

14 Swap in a new bath mat

While completely revamping your bathroom may be an ordeal, a new bath mat can make all the difference in how much you enjoy the space. And luckily, this is one of the cheaper upgrades out there—for as little as $10—sometimes even less—you can completely refresh the room.

15 Repaint your baseboards

Between the constant opening and shutting of doors and the heavy foot traffic of your family and pets, the baseboards in your house can start to look a little rough after a while. If you want to upgrade your space, give them that fresh coat of paint they deserve—and take note of how it gives the rest of your home a whole new vibrant feel.

16 And your patio furniture

We have a feeling you may be spending quite a bit of time in your backyard this season. Breathe new life into your outdoor furniture this spring with a quick coat of exterior-grade paint. All it takes is a little cleaning, a little sanding, and two coats of the stuff to turn those beat-up wicker chairs into something fresh and modern.

17 Set out a new welcome mat

With the salt and slush associated with the winter months behind you, it's time to retire that heavy-duty doormat until next year. To brighten up your front step, opt instead for something more seasonal—it's an easy upgrade that will completely change your exterior's aesthetic.

Source: Bestlifeonline

The Ultimate Guide to Indoor Plants

Mon, 25 May 2020 04:25:15 GMT

Indoor plants should be an essential component of every interior design. Greenery brightens up indoor spaces and are known to have mood-boosting qualities.

Indoor plants are popular because they are relatively easy to take care of, provide health benefits and can be used in a variety of indoor décor themes. Indoor plants are a great option for those who have little yard space for an outdoor garden or for those who live in climates with severely cold winters.

So, if you’re caring for indoor plants for the first time, our ultimate guide will provide you with the necessary information to allow your green friends to thrive.

To provide you with expert insight, we asked our Senior Horticulturist at Ambius, Matt Kostelnick, to answer the most frequently asked questions about indoor plants.

What are indoor plants?

Indoor plants are plants that grow indoors. There are a variety of tropical plants, like palms, that thrive in indoor environments.

How do you plant indoor plants?

Most of the time, indoor plants are already in containers, so there is no need to plant them. There are typically only two reasons you need to plant an indoor plant.

If your plant is getting too big, then you will need to replant it into a larger container.
If you wanted to grow bulbs indoors, then you will need to plant the bulbs yourself.

How much light do indoor plants need?

Succulents and cacti need continuous, daily sunlight. Plants with foliage need roughly 8 hours of light per day. The amount of light depends on the plants you are growing, so we suggest doing research on the specific plants you are growing.

What qualities make for a good indoor plant?

There are several qualities to look for when selecting an indoor plant.

A good root system – This is incredibly important when choosing a plant. It’s not practical to pull a plant out of its pot to check its roots but if it is a small plant, this can be done. Healthy roots are thick and light in color.
Foliage- Here’s a good rule of thumb when it comes to plant’s foliage: if you can’t see through it, the foliage is thick enough.
Check for disease – Some signs of a plant with pests or disease are: white dots, sticky residue on the leaves and a bad odor.

Which indoor plants require low light?

Indoor plants that need little light could be good fits for locations where light is more dim. Some plants that require low light are:

Philodendron – A very common indoor plant that rarely attracts pests. It’s a hearty plant that is adaptable to various environments
Pothos or Devil’s Ivy- A plant with colorful and vibrant leaves. This plant does great in a variety of environments, thriving in low light or in bright, indirect light.
Dracaena– This is another popular indoor plant with long green leaves. This is one indoor plant you will want to prune if foliage gets too long.
Peace Lily- This plant thrives best when the soil is moist, but not overwatered. If you want flowers to appear on your peace lily plant, move your plant to a darker room.

Which indoor plants are the easiest to take care of?

Below is a list of indoor plants that are easy to take care of:

Sansevieria
Philodendron
Most succulents
Pothos
ZZ plant

Which plants are considered indoor plants?

Plants that require a low amount of light and water to thrive are typically known as indoor plants. Ambius considers these plants as examples of common indoor plants:

Dracaena
Hedera Helix
Sansevieria Zeylanica Superba
Scindapsus

What are examples of some common indoor plants?

More examples of common indoor plants include the following:

Aglaonema
Dracaena
Ferns
Philodendrons
Palms
Pothos
Spathiphyllum
Succulents

What are the best indoor plants?

Good indoor plants will tolerate lower light and humidity. Also, they will be less likely to deal with pests. Plus, they usually do not grow too much (you wouldn’t want an indoor plant to grow at a rapid rate). The best indoor plants include the following:

Aglaonema – It is attractive, tolerates low light, and does not grow too quickly.
Aspidistra – You should not need to give it a lot of water and it will handle low light. If you’d like to take a vacation and don’t want to be concerned about your plant, aspidistra a great one for you.
Succulents – Make sure you give them bright light.
Dracaenas
Philodendrons

How do you re-pot indoor plants?

Unless your indoor plant has become too large for the pot it is in, you typically don’t need to re-pot indoor plants. For steps and tips on how to properly re-pot plants, check out our blog on re-potting plants.

How do you care for indoor plants?

Here are some tips that will help you care for indoor plants:

Keep potting soil moist- It’s important to make sure soil is not too wet nor too dry
Make sure the plant pot has drainage holes in the bottom of the pot
Place your plant near a light source, whether it’s natural or artificial
Determine what species of plant you have so you can more accurately care for it

How do you prune indoor plants?

If you have no reason to prune plants, don’t do it. But, if you notice your plant getting tally and spindly, then we recommend you prune them.

What are some of the common reasons indoor plants die?

Some of the most common reasons plants die are:

Overwatering or underwatering
Light Levels (either not enough light or too much light)
Neglect

How long do indoor plants typically live?

On average, indoor house plants last 2-5 years. After that, plants stop thriving and it’s best to invest in another plant.

Which interior plants improve air quality the most?

All plants can act as air purifiers but these plants are more beneficial than others.

Red-Edged Dracaena

Weeping Fig
Bamboo Palm

How do indoor plants affect people’s mood?

People are often surprised on how beneficial indoor plants are. Not only do plants clean the air, but they also reduce noise levels and stress in the workplace. For more information on the benefits of indoor plants, click here.

Are indoor plants expensive?

Indoor plants are known for being very affordable. The smaller the plant, the less expensive it will be. We do warn customers from buying plants from large retailers. Oftentimes, large retailers will sell coconut or palm trees, which are large indoor plants sold at a relatively low price.

Just because a plant is large and sold for a low price does not mean you are getting the best deal. We recommend doing some research prior to buying or speaking with a salesperson at a gardening center.

Which indoor plants work well for small living spaces?

The plants below are great for those living in apartments or working in a small workspace. Here is a list of small plants great for small spaces.

Philidrens
Succulents, if you have a good light source
Hedra helix
Devil’s Ivy

What is the best kind of indoor plant fertilizer to use?

Go to a garden center and look for a fertilizer with “indoor plant” on the label. You will use less fertilizer for plants inside versus outside, so ensure you use the rate specified for indoor plants. If you’re getting fertilizer for blooming plants, look for a fertilizer labeled with the type of plant (orchids, for example) – but if it is unclear which one you should pick, it’s fine to use fertilizer for houseplants.

How do I get rid of bugs on indoor plants?

Bugs on your indoor plants can be really annoying! If you spot pests, go to a garden center and purchase an insecticidal soap, which usually is contained in a spray bottle. When you notice bugs, spray the entire plant – the undersides and tops of the leaves as well as the stem. Next, wait about two weeks and repeat the spraying. Then, wait two more weeks and spray again.

You will want to spray three times because the soap usually will not eliminate eggs, which could hatch. If your plant is dealing with a severe infestation and you are unable to eradicate the pests, throw out the plant. You can also use a damp paper towel to remove a pest.

How do I know when to water my indoor plant?

Over-watering is a common mistake, and you will want to make sure the plant actually requires water now or if it should wait until later. Here are some ways to see if it’s time to water:

Soil probe – This probe will draw out soil, which will help you understand how dry the soil is below the surface.
Moisture meter – This tool tells you, on a scale, how dry soil is.
Lifting the plant up – Heaviness signifies the plant has enough water, but lightness signifies the plant is dry.
Wilting – Wilting typically happens because the plant is not getting sufficient water. Lift the plant to see if it is light in weight or if it’s heavy.
Tipping – If the leaf edges begin browning and are crispy to the touch, the plant likely needs water. If the leaf edges are becoming brown but feel mushy, the plant has likely gotten too much water.
Yellow leaves – Yellow leaves may also signify that a plant has too much or too little water, but this is not always the case.

How do I care for peace lily plants indoors?

Peace lily plants (spathiphyllum) could make a nice addition to your indoor space, such as an office. These plants need to be watered moderately often, but make sure you do not over-water them. If your peace lily begins wilting, just give it some water. You’ll know it has enough if water begins seeping out of the pot’s drainage holes. Peace lilies also will handle low light. A north-facing window is a nice location for this plant, but you do not necessarily need to put it in a window.

Source: Ambius

10 Steps to Start Your First Garden Off Right

Mon, 18 May 2020 04:13:10 GMT

Starting a garden is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Plant fragrant florals or start a vegetable garden (or both!), and everyone can benefit from getting their hands a little dirty. But if you're new to gardening, it can be difficult to know where to start. Still, it doesn't have to be complicated; when you break your project down into manageable steps, you can ease into gardening at your own pace. And soon you'll see the rewards of your efforts with beautiful views, delicious flavors, and colorful blooms. These steps will help you get started from scratch, but if you have something particular in mind, you could also use a garden plan to guide your design.

1. Consider What to Plant

Do you want to plant a vegetable garden? An herb garden? A flower garden? If you choose vegetables and herbs for their contributions to your dinner table, plant ones your family will eat or be willing to try. If you want flowers for their flair, color, and fragrance, decide whether you want annuals that bloom most of the summer but need to be replanted each spring or perennials that have a shorter bloom time but return year after year. Each one, or even a combination, makes a stunning garden but will have different maintenance requirements. One bit of advice: Start small until you know what you’re getting into.

2. Pick the Correct Spot

Almost all vegetables and most flowers need 6-8 hours of full sun each day. So you need to observe your yard throughout the day to figure out which spots receive full sun versus partial or full shade. Don't worry if your lot is mostly shady: You won’t be able to grow tomatoes in shade, but many other plants (such as hostas and outdoor ferns) love it. Don't skip this step, because in order to thrive, your plants need to have their light requirements met. Check plant tags or ask the staff at your local garden center to help you understand out how much sun a plant needs.

Three additional tips: Pick a relatively flat spot for your garden because it’s more difficult, time-consuming, and expensive to deal with a sloping garden. Check for windbreaks (such as your house or your neighbor’s house) that will keep plants from being harmed by strong winds. And put the garden where you can't ignore its pleas for attention: Outside the back door, near the mailbox, or by the window you gaze through while you're cooking. Bonus if that place is close enough to a water spigot that you won't have to drag a hose across the entire yard.

3. Clear the Ground

Get rid of the sod covering the area you plan to plant. If you want quick results (if it’s already spring and you want veggies this summer), cut it out. Slice under the sod with a spade, cut the sod into sections to make it easier to remove, then put it on your compost pile to decompose.

It’s easier to smother the grass with newspaper, but it takes longer. (In other words, you should start in the fall before spring planting.) Cover your future garden with five sheets of newspaper; double that amount if your lawn is Bermuda grass or St. Augustine grass. Spread a 3-inch layer of compost (or combination of potting soil and topsoil) on the newspaper and wait. It'll take about four months for the compost and paper to decompose. But by spring, you’ll have a bed ready to plant with no grass or weeds and plenty of rich soil.

4. Improve the Soil

The more fertile the soil, the better your vegetables will grow. The same holds true for other plants. Residential soil always needs a boost, especially in new construction where the topsoil may have been stripped away. Your soil could be excessively wet, poor and infertile, or too acidic or alkaline. The solution is usually simple: Add organic matter. Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of compost, decayed leaves, dry grass clippings, or old manure to the soil when you dig or till a new bed. If you decide not to dig or are working with an established bed, leave the organic matter on the surface where it will eventually rot into humus (organic material). Earthworms will do most of the work of mixing humus in with the subsoil.

To learn more about your soil, have a soil test done through your county cooperative extension office. They'll lead you through the procedure: How much soil to send from which parts of the garden and the best time to obtain samples. Expect a two-week wait for the findings, which will tell you what your soil lacks and how to amend it.

5. Work the Soil

Working the soil is essential to preparing new beds for sowing or planting because it allows roots to penetrate the soil more easily to access water and nutrients. There are two methods: Tilling and digging.

Tilling consists of cultivating soil with a mechanical device such as a rototiller. This is a good method when you need to incorporate large amounts of amendments. However, it can also disturb microorganisms and earthworms. So it’s better to do too little than too much. Excessive tilling and working soil when it’s too wet or dry damages soil structure and plant roots.

Digging is more practical for preparing small beds. Dig only when the soil is moist enough to form a loose ball in your fist but dry enough to fall apart when you drop it. Use a sharp spade or spading fork to gently turn the top 8 to 12 inches of soil, mixing in the organic matter from Step 4 at the same time. (Walking on prepared beds compacts the soil, so lay down boards temporarily to evenly distribute your weight.)

6. Pick Your Plants

Some people pore over catalogs for months; others head to the garden center and buy what wows them. Either method works as long as you choose plants adapted to your climate, soil, and sunlight. You can even surf the Internet for plants to purchase. Here are a few easy-to-grow plants for beginners:

Annuals: Calendula, cosmos, geraniums, impatiens, marigolds, sunflowers, and zinnias
Perennials: Black-eyed Susans, daylilies, lamb's ears, pansies, phlox, purple coneflowers, and Russian sage
Vegetables: Cucumbers, lettuce, peppers, and tomatoes

7. Start Planting

Some plants, such as pansies and kale, tolerate cold, so you can plant them in autumn or late winter. Tomatoes and most annual flowers, on the other hand, prefer warm temperatures, so don't plant them until the danger of frost has passed in your area. Midspring and midautumn are good times to plant perennials.

Many plants, such as lettuce and sunflowers, are easy to grow from seed directly in the garden. Be sure to read the seed packet for information about planting time, depth, and spacing. If you're an adventurous beginner, get a head start on the growing season by sowing seeds indoors a few weeks before the last frost date. There are containers or flats designed especially for seedlings and seed-starting soil mixes available at garden centers. Follow seed packet instructions and place the containers on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights if you don't have window space. Be sure to keep the seeds and seedlings moist but not wet, or they may rot.

An easier method of starting your garden is to buy young plants, called set plants or transplants. Dig holes in your prepared bed based on tag instructions. Remove plants from the container by pushing up from the bottom. If the roots have grown into a big ball (known as being root-bound), use a fork or your fingers to untangle some outer roots before setting it into the hole. Pat soil into place around the roots, then soak the soil with water.

8. Water at the Right Time

Seedlings should never be allowed to dry out, so water daily. Taper off as the plants get larger. Transplants also need frequent watering (every other day or so) until their roots become established. After that, how often you need to water depends on your soil, humidity, and rainfall, though once a week is a good place to start. Clay soil dries out more slowly than sandy soil, so you won't need to water it as often. Sunny, windy conditions dry out soil more quickly than cool, cloudy weather. Still not sure? Feel the soil 3 to 4 inches below the surface. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Water slowly and deeply, so the water soaks in instead of running off. To minimize evaporation, water in the early morning.

9. Protect Your Garden With Mulch

To help keep weeds out and moisture in, cover the soil with a couple of inches of mulch. You won’t have to water as often, and by preventing sunlight from hitting the soil, you’ll prevent weed seeds from germinating. Choose from a wide variety of mulches, each with its own benefits, including shredded bark, straw, and river rock. If you use an organic mulch, such as bark, compost, or cocoa bean shells (which smell good, by the way), it will nourish the soil as it decomposes. For a vegetable garden or bed of annuals, choose a mulch that decomposes in a few months. For perennials, use a longer-lasting mulch such as bark chips.

10. How to Maintain Your Garden

Your garden is beginning to grow. Help it reach its full potential by keeping up with garden chores. Water the plants. Pull weeds before they get big. Get rid of dead, dying, and diseased vegetation. Banish destructive insects by picking them off the plant and dropping them into a bucket of sudsy water (such as tomato hornworms), hosing them off, or spraying on an insecticidal soap purchased at a garden center. Support tall plants (such as tomatoes) with a trellis, stake, or a tepee. Also, harvest vegetables as soon as they’re ready. And remember to stop and smell the... well, whatever it is you’re growing.

If you enriched the soil with compost before you planted, you may not need to do any additional fertilizing. Then again, some vegetables (including tomatoes and corn) are heavy feeders and may need a quick-release fertilizer every three to four weeks. Ask an expert at the garden center for help and always follow package directions carefully.

Source: Better Homes and Gardens

8 Easy DIY Projects To Tackle During Quarantine and Make Your Bedroom the Stuff of Dreams

Mon, 11 May 2020 04:43:58 GMT

Being stuck at home isn’t easy, especially when you’re sharing the space with your entire family or roommates. So naturally, many of us are probably retreating to the space we may have previously used only for sleep: the bedroom.

Those four walls might feel like they're closing in on you right about now—and you’re probably more than ready for a little pick-me-up. After all, as long as you're stuck in there anyway, you might as well take on a project that will cheer you up, right?

With that in mind, here are eight of our favorite easy projects you can tackle in your bedroom while social distancing.

1. Make your own pendant light

Sure, you can always go out and buy a pendant light—but with so much time on your hands, why not make one?

“Pendant lights are all the rage right now, but they can get expensive,” says home blogger Jeneva Aaron of TheHouseWire. “This DIY pendant is stylish, super easy to make, and very affordable. It also has an earthy, organic quality that can bring some boho style to any room.”

2. Hand-paint some throw pillows

Whether you’re sick of your current pillows or just in need of a refresh, hand-painting your own throw pillows is a great way to give your bedroom the pop of color it needs.

“Can’t find the perfect pattern for your throw pillows? Looking for some that match the exact colors in your room? If you can’t find them, make them,” Aaron says. “With a little bit of fabric paint, you can create the pillows of your dreams.”

3. Build a rustic side table

This simple, rustic side table is a breeze to make, and the final product will have everyone thinking you shelled out some real money and bought it.

“This is a great beginner project and, at only $25, you don't have to be too worried if you even mess it up,” says Carmen Smith, owner of Living Letter Home. "But these detailed instructions are written such that it's near foolproof.”

4. Add floating corner shelves

Have an unused corner of your bedroom? Then why not put it to work with a set of floating shelves?

“Corners are valuable spaces, but people often leave them empty," Aaron says. "And you don’t have to buy shelves, either. It’s easy to take some old wood and turn it into a corner shelving system where you can display books or decor.”

Follow this guide to get your very own set of corner shelves for all those extra books and mementos.

5. Create a flower wall

We could probably all use a bit more flower power right now, but with parks and florists closed, you might just have to get creative to bring springtime vibes into your home.

“Fake flowers are severely underrated,” says Aaron. “If you think they’re too cheesy or chintzy, it’s time to give them another shot. And don’t limit yourself to simply displaying them in vases. This flower wall is a creative way to incorporate faux flowers into your decor, and it’s supereasy to make.”

6. Make a homemade shag rug

“This kind of shag rug would cost you a pretty penny in stores,” says Aaron. “But with some plastic netting and cotton piping, you can make your own. It’s very, very easy to make, although it does take some time—but if you’re stuck at home anyway, it’s a great project to work on while watching TV."

7. Assemble a rope basket

You can never have too many storage baskets. But you might not have the budget to buy all the ones you need either.

“Whether you live in a seaside New England cottage or a chic Manhattan loft, this rope basket will look great in your home," Aaron says. "And it’s very easy to make, which is always a plus.”

8. Hand-craft a bed canopy

“Have you always wanted a canopy bed but never got around to buying one? Well, now you can make your own,” says Aaron. This DIY canopy tutorial "will help you create a serene environment to relax in while you’re stuck at home.”

This simple bedroom canopy project will work on any size or style of bed—and hopefully grant you back some of those chill pre-pandemic vibes.

Source: Realtor.com

30 Ways to Save Money Around the House

Mon, 04 May 2020 04:56:12 GMT

1. Shop at the Right Time of Year

Time home item purchases to get the cheapest prices. Think furniture in January/February, barbecues in fall, and holiday decor after Christmas. See Wise Bread's shopping calendar to find the best times to buy (and stay tuned for our monthly "What to Buy" feature, which runs on or around the first of every month).

2. Renegotiate Your Rent or Refinance Your Mortgage

Try negotiating a lower rent the next time your lease is up for renewal. For homeowners, investigate refinancing your mortgage if you can save a couple of percentage points on your interest rate.

3. Get a Sunday Paper Delivery

Sunday papers are full of coupons. The amount of savings gained from using these food and retailer coupons will far exceed the cost of the paper.

4. Collect Spare Change

Keep a jar to collect loose change. Don't forget to check old junk drawers and the couch for coins, too. Every few months you can dump the change in your supermarket's Coinstar machine to use towards groceries. You'll pay no fees if you convert your coins to a variety of gift cards, including Amazon gift cards, where you can take advantage of Prime and Subscribe and Save.

5. Switch to Cloth Napkins

You can get good-enough-for-everyday and still much nicer than paper, all-cotton table napkins at Amazon and elsewhere, in a variety of colors and patterns, for a couple of dollars each, and sometimes less. Since they're cotton instead of linen, just wash and fold, no ironing required!

6. Dollar Store Household Items

Get to know your local dollar stores. Buying household staples like tape, wrapping paper, soap, and other items will save you a bundle over the grocery store or pharmacy.

7. Relax for Less

Rather than pay for relaxation, find other cheaper ways to unwind. Try meditation, reading, napping, or an affordable hobby instead of old habits that cost more, like shopping online or mixing up expensive cocktails.

8. Grow Some Herbs

Herbs can easily be grown indoors on a small windowsill or outside in pots or gardens. They will help you save on buying expensive grocery store jars of seasonings, will taste fresher, and can be easily dried and stored.

9. View Coupons as Money

When you realize a $10 coupon for something you need is the same as someone giving you $10 in cash towards your purchase, you'll start to see the value of coupons and savings in a whole new way.

10. Close Closet Doors

Help keep your energy costs lower by closing closet doors so you aren't needlessly heating and cooling closet space.

11. Pay Your Bills Online

Not only will this save you stamps and checks, but the many email reminders and ease of paying online will help you never miss a bill and have to pay a late charge.

12. Use Supermarket Weekly Circulars

Don't just throw out that weekly grocery store circular. Give them a good look and plan to strategically shop the many deals they have, or stock up on deeply discounted items when bargains arise.

13. Entertain Over Brunch Instead of Dinner

Brunch items are often cheaper to prepare than dinner for guests (think French toast vs. expensive steaks). You'll also save on alcohol, as people are less likely to drink as much.

14. Make a Household Budget

It's time to sit down and do a budget to trim the fat, see where your hidden expenses are, and examine where your dollars are going. You can learn to build a budget in no time flat, or tune up one you currently have.

15. Make Your Own Cheap Wall Art

Affordable wall decor is at your fingertips when you transform some of your favorite photos into a collage of cool black and whites, frame beautiful fabric scraps, utilize your kid's artwork, or paint your own scenes.

16. Take Free Classes

Free or discounted continuing education classes in many subjects and hobbies can be found in certain communities with just a little searching. Instead of paying for a private tutor or a fancy school, consider looking for community options.

17. Organize and Use Your Pantry

Keeping a well-organized food pantry means you are less likely to buy things you don't need or let items go passed their expiration dates. Like a good episode of Food Network's "Chopped," you should also make sure to use all items in your pantry, too.

18. Always Check for Online Coupons and Discounts

Before you purchase anything online, hit up sites, like RetailMeNot and Froogle, to check for promo codes, free shipping, and where to find your item at the cheapest price.

19. Make Your Own Drapes

If you've ever seen how much curtains can go for these days, you'll understand why making your own is a huge saver. You don't even need to know how to sew if you follow some easy no-sew drape tutorials.

20. Use Free Designers and Advice

Take advantage of many retailers' in-house design teams. Furniture stores often offer free design consultants, paint stores always have some knowledgeable advice, and even certain clothing retailers have free stylists to help you shop.

21. Drink Discount Wines

Shop your local wine store for great promotions and sales. Most decent stores have a section of their favorite budget picks or advertise weekly promotions from new wineries.

22. Use Energy Efficient Lighting

Now that the old-fashioned incandescent bulbs are being phased-out, finding affordable CFL and LED bulb options is getting easier. The total lifetime savings from these energy-efficient bulbs will greatly out-weigh their initial investment and save on overall energy costs.

23. Be Your Own Barista

We all know how much coffee shops can cost, so brew your own at home and take a to-go mug with you in the morning. Invest in small hand-frothers, syrups, or just use cinnamon or other common flavorings to fancy things up.

24. Join Store Loyalty Programs

Supermarkets, pharmacies, and retailers all offer loyalty cards these days. The points and savings really add up. You can save almost 25% or more off purchases just by being part of the program.

25. Find Cheaper Gas

Before you head out to the pump, check gas price sites, like Gas Buddy, to locate the cheapest gas in town and plan accordingly.

26. Make Your Own Cleaners

There are so many ways to make your own cleaning products using things like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and other common household items, all of which are cheaper than brand name cleaners.

27. Divide Landscaping Plants and Use Transplants

When planning your outdoor landscape, look to friends or relatives that have extra plants you can to transplant in your garden. Or divide your own larger plantings and spread them around the yard.

28. Rethink Your Cable

Cut back on premium channels or try the many alternative, cheaper online viewing options, such as Netflix and Hulu+, which you can access via your laptop or connected devices like Google Chromecast and Apple TV, among others.

29. Buy in Season or Frozen Veggies

Avoid pricey out-of-season fruits and vegetables or exotic fresh picks at your grocery store and instead buy local, in-season options. Frozen is also cheaper and just as full of nutrients.

30. Buy Generic

There are great savings to be had with certain generic brands in every supermarket. Often the generic options are just as good, if not better, than some of their pricier brand name counterparts. In fact, many store or "private label" brands are manufactured by the same companies that make the name brands.

Source: Wise Bread

87 family activities to help you avoid coronavirus cabin fever

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 05:31:03 GMT

It’s not fun being cooped up because of self-isolation and social distancing, but with a little bit of effort, you can create some fun things to do at home to help the time pass and make some wonderful memories. You’ll probably have to work with what you have one hand, since so many stores are closed. But with a little creativity, we’re sure you can make most of these ideas work. You’ve got this!

1. Zoom around in cardboard race cars

Let your kids zoom through the living room in their very own race car. Get the instructions here.

2. Make a cardboard dollhouse

Create your own dollhouse, as intricate or as simple as you’d like. We’ve got instructions for one that’s a series of “apartments” that can be broken up and played with however you’d like. Find it here.

3. Make your own drive-in movie

Make a box car for an indoor drive-in film. Get the instructions here.

4. Bring Minecraft to life

Got a Minecraft fan at home? They’ll flip for this creeper box craft. Find it and templates for Minecraft pixel pickaxes here.

5. Make your own pinwheel

This simple craft is best enjoyed in a breeze, but standing in front of a fan gets the job done too. Learn to make your own here.

6. Make a portable art easel

Don’t throw away that cardboard box! Make a sturdy and portable art easel for your mini Monet. Get the instructions here.

7. Make a calming jar

Help your kids cool down and relax with these easy-to-make calming jars. All you need is hand soap, water and a handful of shiny glitter and beads to help your kids find their inner peace. Get the instructions here.

8. Blow bubbles

Go buy some bubbles at your favourite dollar store, or make your own at home. Plus, learn how to make your own bubble wands here.

9. Play hide-and-seek

Another classic fun things to do at home. Who can find the best hiding spot in the house?

10. Make a bird feeder

What better spring craft is there than making a DIY bird feeder? Or try painting a birdhouse, which you can purchase at your local craft store.

11. Play a game of hopscotch

You might think this game is too simple, but it’s always a great time-killer and super fun to play at any age.

12. Get gardening

Spend some time outdoors by planting flowers in the yard. Your little ones will love getting messy in the fresh soil and being on garden hose duty.

13. Wash your car

If it’s warm enough outside, get the kids to help you out with cleaning up your family vehicle(s) on the driveway.

14. Collect and paint rocks

Go to a nearby park and collect rocks, then make a craft day out of it. Paint them with whatever paint you have at home and maybe even turn them into rock magnets for the fridge.

15. Take lots of pictures

Make sure that while living in the moment, you don’t forget to snap photos of the silly and fun times, too. Print the photos and have the kids help you finally put together that scrapbook or album you’ve wanted to make.

16. Build a fort

Any time of the year is the perfect time to build a fort. It’s great for some pretend indoor camping!

17. Draw with sidewalk chalk

Sprawl out on the sidewalk with a big bucket of chalk or spruce up your driveway with your wildest creations.

18. Have a scavenger hunt

Put together a list of household objects and see who can be the first to find everything on the list!

19. Watch the sunset

The best ending to the perfect spring day is watching the sunset with the little ones before calling it a night.

20. Get baking

Ge the most out of baking with your kids. Pretend to be bakers while practicing essential skills like reading with recipes or counting with ingredients.

21. Get silly with your kids

Try these low cost options for just having some good ole silly fun.

22. Make a twig sailboat

Time to set sail in a lake, pail or bathtub! Make these cute little crafts out of simple supplies. Find instructions here.

23. Make a time capsule

A sweet time capsule filled with special trinkets and memories is always a fun indoor activity to do with kids. Have them help decorate the box and curate which items to put in it. Learn how here.

24. Learn a few magic tricks

Who doesn’t love magic? Learn some simple sleight of hand with this easy guide.

25. Play card games

Teach your kid some fun classic card games like Go Fish!, Crazy Eights, Slapjack and more!

26. Play freeze dance

Choose some of your kids’ favourite tunes and turn up the volume. Ask them to dance until the music stops. When it does, they have to freeze in whatever position they find themselves in – even if they have one leg up. To make the game more challenging, ask the kids to freeze in specific poses: animals, shapes, letters or even yoga postures. Toddlers in particular love this game.

27. Do a puzzle

Exercise those creative, cognitive and problem-solving muscles with a good puzzle. You can use a store-bought variety or have the kids make their own. Have your children draw a picture on a sturdy piece of cardboard or Bristol board. Then use a pencil to outline puzzle pieces directly on their drawing. Cut out the pieces with a good pair of scissors, mix them up and get solving. Indoor games and craft in one fun activity!

28. Improvise some paper-bag skits

This indoor game is ideal for larger families. Divide the kids (and adults) up into groups. Give each group a bag filled with props, such as a spoon, toy jewelry, a sock, ball or ribbon. Then give them 15 minutes to construct a skit around the props. This game is so much fun that it doesn’t have to be competitive. If the kids want, though, they can vote on a winning skit.

29. Make a DIY balance beam

If you have masking tape on hand, why not make your own balance beam? We all know how much kids love walking in straight lines every chance they get. Put on some music, and one at a time the kids can take their turn walking one-foot-over-the-other across the straight line of tape. Make the game more challenging by having the kids walk backwards or balance with one foot on the line.

30. Do some indoor bowling

A great way to reuse water bottles (or you can purchase an indoor bowling set). Line six-10 water bottles up at the end of your hall or living room. Place a line of duct tape at the starting line. Grab a medium-sized indoor ball and start bowling! If you want, keep score and give out trophies at the end. (Note: if you need to stabilize the water bottles or make the game more difficult, simply fill them up with some water. Don’t forget to screw the tops on tightly!) Learn how to make a classic set of pins here, or find instructions for some cute cactus-themed bowling pins here.

31. Play Hot Potato

This game will have everyone giggling. Ask the kids to sit on the floor in a circle. Turn on some tunes and have them pass the potato (a bean bag or soft ball) around the circle as fast as they can. When the music stops, the player holding the potato leaves the circle. Keep going until only one player is left and wins the game.

32. Play the listening game

This game is sure to both educate and delight little ones. Take out several miscellaneous items. Have the children look at all the items, and then take them away. Next, ask one child to hide his or her eyes and listen as you pick up an item and make sounds with it. Ask the child to guess which item made the sound. Examples of items might be a comb (run your fingers along it), a glass (gently tap it), cymbals, shakers, sandpaper, blocks rubbed together, a pot and spoon. Be creative and have fun!

33. Play Simon Says

This traditional favourite will never get old. To start, choose one player (probably a parent for the first round) to be Simon. The rest of the players will gather in a circle or line in front of Simon as he calls out actions starting with the phrase “Simon says”: “Simon says…touch your toes.” The players then have to copy Simon’s action, touching their toes. If Simon calls out an action without uttering the phrase “Simon says,” the kids must not do the action. If a child touches his toes when Simon didn’t say…, he or she is out of the game. There are lots of great ways Simon can trick players into doing actions when Simon didn’t say: Simon can perform an action without uttering a command, for example, or he can perform an action that doesn’t correspond with the command. Fun! The last player left in the game wins and becomes the next Simon.

34. Set up a game of indoor basketball

You can’t be too little for this version of basketball. All you need is a bucket and a rolled up sock (or a small, light ball). Each player takes a turn at throwing the sock-ball into the bucket. When a player scores a bucket, he or she takes a step back and throws again until missing. The player who shoots the ball in the bucket from the farthest distance wins.

35. Learn some classic hand-clapping games

These classic hand-clapping games are sure to pass the time with your little ones. Just make sure everyone washes their hands before and after!

36. Make an emoji magic 8-ball

Who knows what the future holds during this uncertain time? Your little ones will after the make this adorable craft. Get instructions here.

37.Take to the skies in cardboard planes

Fly in style with this colourful plane. Find it here.

38. Make a mini city out of toilet paper rolls

Save up your empty toilet paper rolls and once there’s enough, have your kiddies make a city out of them! Get the instructions here.

39. Make rainbow crayons

Collect all those broken crayons and melt them down into moulds to turn them into exciting multicoloured crayons in fun shapes! Get the instructions here

40. Make a pair of paper roll binoculars

These binoculars are powered solely by your kids’ imaginations. Have your kids go on an epic safari right there in your living room. No need to worry if they ever rip or get sat on, it’s super easy to whip up a new pair. Get the instructions here.

50. Make a foosball table

See that empty shoe box? With some wooden dowels, paint, and a handful of clothespins, it is now the home of your awesome DIY foosball table. Game on! Get the instructions here.

51. Make a desk caddy

Help your kids get their desks organized with these cute desk caddies! Made from a shoebox, toilet paper rolls and newspaper, your kid can design it however they want. Get the instructions here.

52. Make a jetpack

Want to send your kids on an imaginary adventure in outer space? Have them make a jetpack out of empty pop bottles and watch them travel the galaxy. Get the instructions here.

53. Have sensory fun with this lady bug sensory box

A few basic supplies are all you need to make a cute and educational sensory box. Get the instructions here.

54. Make a holiday tree

Got some old cupcake liners lying around? Depending on their colours, this paper tree craft can be used to make decorations for different holidays throughout the year. Red and green liners? Christmas! Orange and black? Halloween! Pink and white? Valentine’s Day! What holiday will your family be celebrating next? Get the instructions here.

55. Make a basketball pennant flag

The NBA season may have been suspended but you can still celebrate your kid’s favourite sport. Get the instructions here.

56. Craft some cozy critters

Make these cozy little critters to keep your kids’ hard-boiled eggs nice and warm. When eggs aren’t on the menu, they do double as tiny puppets! Get the instructions here.

57. Make some fancy felt hairpins

Turn plain bobby pins into your child’s new favourite accessory with some felt shapes, glue and glitter. Try different shapes to match the season: snowflakes for winter, flowers for spring, a beachball for summer and leaves for fall. And stars work for every season. Get the instructions here.

58. Make some owl eye pillow masks

Get your little night owl excited to sleep with this charming eye mask. Do this craft with your kids in the morning before lunch so it’ll be ready for naptime! Get the instructions here.

59. Play pretend with these Yoda ears

These ears will instantly turn your kiddo into a wise, old jedi master. Round out the ends and use black and pink felt to make easy cow ears. White and pink felt will give you the cutest lamb ears. Now who wants to play pretend? Get the instructions here.

60. Make pipe cleaner crowns

Speaking of dress up, what princess (or prince) would be caught without their crown? We have three adorable (and bejewelled) crowns you can make with just a few supplies. Find the instructions here.

61. Make mini hockey sticks

Who’s up for a game of mini hockey? These mini hockey sticks are quick and easy to make, just use a plastic bottle cap or small circular piece of cardboard as a puck! More instructions here.

62. Print out some fun pencil and paper games

These fun, simple pencil and paper games will keep kids occupied while parents try to get some work done. Get the printables here.

63. Whip up some edible playdough

This craft is perfect for little ones who love sticking everything in their mouths. (I’m looking at you, glue-eating Tommy.) This edible, dye-free playdough can be made with ingredients you likely have on hand. Make it before the party and then set out cookie cutters and rolling pins on a craft table. Then the kids can get their dough on! Learn how to make it here.

64. Make matching heart headbands

Some people like to wear their heart on their sleeve. But we prefer to wear our heart on our head! Make matching ones for everyone in the family and share what you love most about each other. Find out how here.

65. Create some braided accessories

These colourful braided accessories are fun to make and great for playing dress up. Kids can experiment with new patterns and colour combinations. Let the creative juices start flowing! Learn how to make them here.

66. Rock out with some disco microphones

Your little disco stars can sing their hearts out with these easy DIY microphones. Let them can choose a disco ball, glitter or sequins to decorate their very own mic for a karaoke showdown! Learn how here.

67. Marble-dye some eggs

These pretty marbled eggs don’t have to be just for Easter (although it’s coming up!). The kids can paint them to match a birthday theme, or turn them into their favourite characters (like red-and-blue for Spider Man). All you need are some eggs, food colouring and shaving cream. You might want to lay out a lot of newspaper—things might get messy! Get the instructions here.

68. Make sweet flower crown

Have a little flower-lover? Then this is the craft for your little one! She’ll be a true fairy princess this sweet flower crown. Learn how here.

69. Shake it out with these water bottle maracas

Feeling pent up? Let off some of that bottle up energy with these fun maracas. Learn how to make them here.

70. Make a kid-friendly terrarium

This easy DIY terrarium is the perfect activity for kids. We’ve got the how-to here. Got a mason jar? Make these terrariums instead!

71. Make some bath fizzies

These instructions may be for Halloween-themed bath bombs, but you can make them into any shape you’d like to add more fun to bath time.

72. Make cute plastic lapel pins

Yes, you can make trendy pins with your flair-obsessed kids at home. They look super cute on a denim jacket or backpack (for when school finally reopens) Learn how here.

73. Refresh some old sneakers with splatter paint

Create your own designer sneakers at home with this simple splatter paint craft. Get the instructions here.

74. Make an old-school whirligig fidget toy

Fidget toys are perfect for when the family is stuck inside. Try making your own version of the old-timey classic with this easy DIY whirligig. Find out how here.

75. Make an easy reversible felt playmat

This reversible playmat is such a cinch to make and will provide your little one with hours of fun. Get the how-to here.

76. Create some easy felt embroidered patches

What kid (or adult) doesn’t love a cute embroidered patch? Watch this tutorial and learn how to make one yourself with our easy-to-follow steps. See, you are crafty!

77. Dip-dye a watermelon T-shirt

This sweet t-shirt is a fun and easy project to take to the yard. If you know how to dunk, you already know how to dip dye. Find out how here.

78. Play a board game

Boards games are great for bonding time as a family (even when it gets competitive). Check out which boards games are perfect for what age group here.

79. Sound safari

Show your school-age kid how to use the digital recorder on your phone, then ask them to go around the house or yard recording 10 different sounds. Emphasize that they should take their time and try to stump you. (Variation: very close-up shots with the camera.) Then get them to return to the sound booth, aka the couch, and you try to figure out what the sounds are. Pro tip: To keep your phone out of the toilet, ban “flushing” sounds.

80. Play a game of What’s on my butt?

Get comfy on the couch, belly down. Your kids take turns finding things around the house and putting them on your behind. You ask, “What’s on my butt?” (feel free to add funny voices here) and then try to guess. Hil-ar-i-ous.

81. Watch clouds

No, there are no clouds on the living room ceiling, but this is an imagination game. Lie down with your kiddo and whisper, “Wow, look at the beautiful clouds.” You can take turns pointing out what you “see” and pretty soon, creative kids will be spotting elephants and waterslides.

82. Stargaze indoors

Get a kitchen colander or two, a decent flashlight and some of your household’s thousands of little toys. Dinosaurs and horses are good. Lie down in a dark room and shine the flashlight through the colander onto the ceiling. Instant starry night! You can also shine the flashlight behind the toys to project shadows onto the ceiling and walls.

83. Play Don’t wake the giant

Since you’ve got those little plastic toys out…lie down and ask your kids to arrange the toys on your back or belly. Urge them to use their imaginations to set up scenes like a village, the African savannah or a parking lot. But wait—they’ve actually set up everything on a sleeping giant! Stretch, scratch, shake, or maybe even stand up.

84. Just roll around on the floor

Little-known fact: rolling around on the floor is a great way for your preschooler or kindergartener to fine-tune all kinds of developmental skills related to balance, coordination and strength. How awesome that you get to lie on the couch to get the best view of their game. Ask if they can roll straight like a pencil (little kids tend to move their top half first then their legs) or roll in both directions. Ask them to put their arms above their heads and hold on to a stuffed toy while they roll (this requires more strength and coordination). More than one kid? Get them to form a “conveyor belt” with coordinated rolling to move a toy along from one kid to another.

85. Make a race track

Lie on the floor with one knee up and maybe an arm outstretched. Get your kid to set up their train track or car track all around you. You’re the landscape!

86. Operation time

Introduce the kids to the retro game, with you as the patient. Get the kitchen tongs and some small objects, which you arrange on your belly or legs. Hand your toddler or preschooler the tongs and ask them to carefully pick up each item. Older kids can use tweezers. Add sound effects, of course. (Bonus: using tongs and tweezers is a good way to develop small muscles in their hands. It’s educational!)

87. Tattoo artist

Explain that tattoo artists work very slowly and carefully. Then break out the washable, non-toxic markers (some pencil crayons work when dipped in water too) and get yourself a temporary tat.

Source: Today's Parent

Moving Checklist: Tips to Prepare You for a Successful Moving Day

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 06:31:45 GMT

The prospect of a new home is exciting. Packing up and moving your stuff – not so much.

We asked Sarah Roussos-Karakaian, whose New York company We OrgaNYze specializes in packing and unpacking for residential moves, to help us design the perfect stress-free move.

“The biggest mistake people make when they pack,’’ she says, “is not being specific enough.”

The American Moving & Storage Association recommends that you start preparing for a move eight weeks out. This will give you time to go through everything you own and determine what you’re bringing, giving away or selling. If you’re enlisting friends, give them plenty of notice so you can be sure you’ll have the help you need.

Taking time on the front end to organize will ensure a much better moving and unpacking experience. Here’s a week-by-week checklist for moving to help you manage your schedule:

8 WEEKS AHEAD

Start a folder or binder. Keep everything related to your move in one place: packing lists, estimates, receipts, mortgage paperwork, etc.
Do an inventory. Go room by room estimating the cubic footage of your stuff to determine how many boxes you’ll need. Measure big furniture to figure out what goes where in the new home.
Purge what you can. Everything you take will cost money to move, so don’t cart the same unused stuff from attic to attic; be ruthless and get rid of it. Sell it on eBay, or donate it, and take a tax deduction.
Order new appliances. If your new home doesn’t come with a refrigerator or stove, or needs an upgrade, order now, so the appliances are delivered before you move in.

6 WEEKS AHEAD

Research moving companies. Get in-person, written estimates, and check references with the Better Business Bureau. Confirm they are licensed and insured by verifying their USDOT number. Interstate movers must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. Get at least three in-home estimates from moving companies and make sure there’s a binding “not-to-exceed” amount on any contract you sign. You don’t want unpleasant surprises at the end of your move.
Retain any specialty movers. Moving expensive or fragile items like art, antiques or a grand piano? Find movers who specialize. Pool tables, for example, typically require an expert to dismantle and reconstruct.
Review your mover’s insurance. Ensure that the liability insurance your prospective movers carry will cover the replacement value of anything they might damage.
Call utility companies. Arrange to have utilities turned off at your old home and turned on at your new place. Find out dates for garbage and recyclable pickup, as well as any restrictions about having packing debris picked up.
Make travel arrangements. Moving long distance or shipping a vehicle? Make travel and auto transport arrangements now. If you have children, will they need to change schools? Get the necessary paper work filled out and records transferred. Pets? Schedule kennel time or ask a friend to keep your 4-legged friends out of the moving chaos.
Gear up for packing. Some movers provide boxes. Stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s and Staples sell them. And some retailers or company mailrooms give them away. Get more boxes than you think you’ll need, particularly easy-to-lift small ones. Don’t forget packing tape, colored tape and markers for coding boxes, bubble wrap for mirrors and prints, and packing peanuts.

4 WEEKS AHEAD

Start packing seldom-used items. Box out-of-season clothes and holiday ornaments before moving on to more frequently used items.
Track boxed items. Create a spreadsheet with color-coded rows for each room and enough columns to cover all the boxes per room. As you pack, mark and number each box (e.g., “Kitchen 12”) on its 4 vertical sides (the top is hidden when boxes are stacked) with the relevant tape color. As you seal each box, list its contents in your spreadsheet, so you AND the movers will know what’s in each and where it goes.
Use specialty containers. Get specialized boxes for TVs and wardrobes. Pull garbage bags over hanging clothes in clumps and tie the bags’ strings around the bunched hangers to keep contents clean and easy to handle. (Color-code these bundles, too.) Seal liquids in plastic storage tubs with lids.
Keep hardware together. Put screws and other hardware from anything you disassemble – sconces, TV wall mounts, shelves, etc. – in sealed plastic bags taped to the items themselves. Just be careful not to affix the bags onto a surface that could be damaged by the tape’s adhesive.
Update your address. Change your address with USPS to have your mail forwarded to your new address. Give your new address to family members, your banks and credit card companies, magazines and newspapers, the Department of Motor Vehicles and your employer. Be sure to update the extensive list of contacts you should inform when you move.

2 WEEKS AHEAD

Finish packing the house. Label the boxes you pack last that contain your most-used items – laptops, phones, everyday dishes, remote controls, etc. – with three strips of colored tape. Tell movers to keep these boxes easily accessible in the new location.
Confirm your dates. Call utility companies to make sure your services are scheduled to be connected the correct day, and double-check the move time with the movers. If you’ve arranged to have your old home cleaned, it’s smart to double-check that task, too.
Defrost your fridge and drain gas-powered equipment. Unplug the refrigerator to give it time to defrost and drain. Drain gas and oil from mowers and similar equipment, and discard the fluids properly.
Create a “First Night Kit.” Pack a box or overnight bag for each family member with a change of clothes, toiletries and medications, plus favorite toys for kids and pets. Include cleaning supplies, toilet paper, snacks, a utility knife (for unpacking) and a first-aid kit.
Pack your valuables. Carry jewelry, medications, easily damaged items and other valuables with you.
Do last-minute errands. Get cash to tip the movers and buy pizza for the family. Take pets to a kennel or drop them off with a friend. Pick up the keys to your new home.

Moving Truck Tips

Renting a truck to haul your stuff can involve all kinds of complications — from choosing the right size of van or truck to packing it properly and making adjustments to drive it safely. Brandon Scivolette, president of Elite Moving Labor, a national moving company, shares what he knows to make your move go smoothly.

Moving right along. Truck rentals range in size from 10 to 26 feet. Clearly, you need to prepare for this new experience behind the wheel. If you have the opportunity, give the truck a trial spin in the parking lot, testing its overall visibility as well as how it handles and turns.

“You need to realize that these trucks don’t have rearview mirrors, so you have to get used to that,” Scivolette says. “Using a car carrier will change how you reverse. If you want to reverse to the left, you turn the wheel right. This can confuse people.”

Check it out. Rental trucks will have maintenance issues from time to time, especially if they have a lot of miles on them.

“The most important things to look at are the condition of the tires and the total miles,” Scivolette says. “The more miles the truck has, the more likely it will break down. So if it has a lot, ask if you can exchange it for a more recent model.”

Choose your size. The general standard says that a 14-foot truck will move one to two bedrooms. Or that a 12-foot truck will haul 450 cubic feet worth of home “stuff.” Scivolette recommends 12 feet or less for small, one-person moves; up to 17 feet for a small home or one- to two-bedroom apartment; and no less than 20 feet for single-family or town homes.

“If you’re ever unsure,” he says, “you should always defer to a larger truck size — especially if you’re relocating a long distance and multiple trips aren’t an option.”

Pack correctly. Establish a foundation with heaviest items first. Build in tiers from left to right, floor to ceiling and heaviest to lightest.

“Stacking items is fine as long as they’re of comparable size and weight,” Scivolette says. “After completing a first row from left to right, place fillers — nonbreakable items like clothes, blankets and pillows that can be shaped into a space — into the gaps. Use mattresses and box springs to wall off and secure tiers. Place mirrors and paintings between mattresses and box springs.”

Pick a good time. If you can, schedule your move to make sure you don’t run into prime season.

“The most expensive time to move is between March and October,” Scivolette says. “Throughout the year, it’s more costly in the beginning and end of every month, especially on weekends. Also, Memorial Day weekend and the last weekend in July are the two busiest ones of the year.”

Moving Day

Arrive ahead of the moving truck. Give yourself plenty of time to figure out furniture arrangement and where things go.
Direct the operation. Explain your system to the moving firm’s foreman, and give him a copy of the spreadsheet before his team begins working. Lay cardboard or a plastic sheet on the floor of the moving truck.
Take care of your movers. Moving is tough work, so plan to provide water and lunch for the movers. As for tipping: For a half-day job, $10 per mover is the rule of thumb; for a full-day, $20 each.
Give your old home a clean sweep. If you’re a homeowner, you’ll probably have to do this before the closing. If you rent and have a security deposit, take photos after you’re done — in case of disputes. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to save you time and effort.
Unpacking in your new home. When you arrive at your new place, unpack the necessities first, like your bed, basic kitchen supplies and comfortable clothing to wear as you unpack the rest. Arrange the furniture first to make sure there’s a clear path to the bed. Make the beds now, so at the end of the day, everyone can just tumble in — exhausted.

First Week After the Move

Pick up the pets. Make sure you have their food, water and litter boxes.
Change all exterior locks. Get a new set of keys to the house and make copies for all family members and a few extras.
Unpack the kitchen. Find those final-items “three stripes” boxes and unpack.
Congratulate yourselves. Sure, there’s still plenty to do and you probably won’t get as far as you’d like in the first week. Says Roussos-Karakaian: “If you’re hanging art in the first seven days, you’re a rock star.”

Keep your valuables safe before, during and after your move with homeowners insurance. Learn more about homeowners insurance and renters insurance that Nationwide offers

Source: Nation Wide

Basement Storage Tips

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 04:24:20 GMT

When properly utilized, a basement can add much-needed storage space for your home, instead of being that black hole where things are tossed and disappear.

"People are really looking to maximize every space they have now and basements allow them to do that," says Oak Park, Illinois interior designer Amanda Miller. "The more organized you are, the more you can achieve in the space."

Consider the space itself. While some basements are a finished lower level of the home, others can be damp and dark with a high humidity level. These conditions can lead to mildew and mold growth, musty odors and damage to items like upholstered furniture. Address any moisture-related problems before you move items downstairs.

Tip One: Determine what you need to store in your basement

Removing everything from a basement to sort items can be overwhelming for most people, says Omaha, Nebraska-based Certified Professional Organizer, Amy Tokos, CPO. Instead, Tokos suggests sorting items into bins using five or six general categories (like "toys" or "household cleaning supplies") to establish what to keep, toss or donate to a local charity. Group like items together, and set up zones for storage of designated items.

Miller takes a different approach with her clients: she first focuses on how her clients use the space and the style they want, then builds a vision for the basement before they sort and purge items.

"I ask them questions like what are your actual media needs? Are those toys no longer used? Their answers help us establish the storage solutions for the space," explains Miller.

Tip Two: Utilize key tools for different storage needs

How often you need to access items and the size of the items helps you decide the best storage solutions for your basement.

"Shelves are really important for storing items in basements because they get everything off the floor and they help you use vertical storage space," says Tokos.

Miller likes clear labeled bins for households with children, so they can easily see what's inside and resist the urge to dump everything on the floor. Avoid using cardboard boxes in damp basements, because they can become mold-y and attract rodents.

If you have the budget, built-in cabinetry gives you the luxury of creating storage where you need it. Free-standing storage units available at many retailers are a good alternative. Wall systems with labeled baskets that slide in and out are great for a finished basement that doubles as a media or play room.

Tip Three: Use special solutions for hard-to-store items

Keepsakes require special attention. When storing fine linens, use an acid-free box and separate the linens with acid-free tissue paper. Felt rounds used between stacked plates sorted by color helps preserve heirloom dishes.

Color-coded, tight-lidded plastic bins (red for Christmas, orange for Halloween) help keep holiday decorations easy-to-find and organized. When storing out-of-season clothes, a hanging rack with dust cover is better than boxes that take up space. If you want to store heavy sweaters, use covered bins with cedar balls added for freshness.

For wedding gowns, many dry cleaners offer "heirloom packaging" that protect the garment from the elements--but store the dress on a top shelf or in another spot in the house if your basement isn't dry or temperature-controlled.

Keep toys easily accessible but organized. A labeled bin, drawer or basket all work, but for little kids consider adding a picture along with words to your label. Avoid a big, deep general bin that can create a large mess, warns Miller.

Pieces of sports equipment can be hung on the wall, freeing up floor space and helping you avoid a safety or tripping hazard. And for family photo albums, Tokos suggests having them digitally converted for easier and safer storage of your most prized images.

Tip Four: Make your system user-friendly

No matter your storage system, the time and effort required to set it up will feel wasted if you go back to bad habits. Keep your storage solutions as simple and basic as possible, so everyone is encouraged to place items where they belong.

Source: HGTV

6 Ways to Help Your Child Cope With Moving to a New Place

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 16:58:47 GMT

It is the premise to every other young adult novel or movie: the new kid struggling to make his way in a new town without their old friends or familiar comforts.

Such a scenario is endlessly relatable, because it so darn accurate. It’s difficult for kids to move to a new home, adjust to a new school, and make new friends, but there are things parents can to do make them feel less overwhelmed.

“Parents can talk with their children about how things will change when they move to a new home,” said Maria Sanders, a social worker and parent coach.

She suggests asking children if they have any questions about the move and what their new home will be like.

Ali Wenzke, founder of The Art of Happy Moving blog, says the more parents involve children in the planning of a move, the better they’ll feel about it.

“Moving, even if it’s just down the street, can be a big adjustment for your child,” Wenzke said. “It feels like their world is being turned upside down.”

Here are six tips for helping kids adjust when they relocate to a new home:

1. Prepare Your Children in Advance.

Being prepared means saying goodbye to people and places before the move takes place, said Julia Simens, author of “Emotional Resilience and the Expat Child”.

Well before your scheduled move, talk to your children about your plans to relocate. They’ll be more willing to part with old friends and familiar surroundings if they know something about the home they’re moving to and the reasons behind the move.

2. Make Sure They Know About Big Changes They’ll Face.

Children often fear the unknown. When they don’t know anything about how their lives may change, their imaginations fill in the blanks. The more they understand about what their new home will be like, the less threatened they’ll feel.

For example, if they must give up household pets or if extended family members who’ve been a part of their lives no longer will live nearby, they need to have an explanation, said Simens.

3. Let Them Participate in the Move.

Simens recommends that you start planning your move as early as possible to reduce stress.

In order to make your children feel a part of what’s going on, give them chores to do to get ready for the move. If they’re allowed to pack their own things, they’ll understand that their possessions will be waiting for them when they arrive at their new home.

4. Plan Activities For Your Road Trip.

If you’re driving a great distance to your new home, the trip will go more smoothly if you plan activities for your kids. Ask them what toys, games, and movies they would like to have with them.

“Consider splurging on new books or a new movie that your kids can use in the car,” said Wenzke.

Simens recommends packing your children’s favorite treats and taking plenty of rest breaks along the way.

5. Make Their New Room Seem Familiar.

Your children will feel more comfortable in their new home if you allow them surround themselves with familiar things, especially in the months immediately following the move.

“The rug they always stand on when they get up, their nightlight, the soft pillow they love would all be wonderful in a new environment,” said Simens.

6. Take Your Kids on a Tour of the New Neighborhood.

To make your move a family adventure, take your children on a tour of the new neighborhood. Help them find the best routes to their school and other places they’ll want to visit, such as parks, the local library, and playgrounds.

“When you move somewhere new, forget about getting every last box unpacked right away,” said Wenzke. “Instead, spend that time focusing on your neighborhood and your new city.”

Source: Spare Foot Blog

Selling Your Home: The 11 Most Important Spots to Declutter Before the Open House

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 22:40:15 GMT

Make no mistake about it: when you’re selling your house, potential buyers want to see everything. That means no area of your home (not even your utility closet) is safe from the gaze of a serious house hunter. That’s why it’s crucial to maximize every square inch of your place—backyard shed included—by minimizing your overall clutter.

Before you can successfully show off your house to anyone (or even take listing photos) you need to ensure you have a home that people will want to live in: one that’s well organized and filled with ample storage space. To help, we’ve put together a list the most important places to de-clutter as you prepare to sell your home. And though we can’t promise it’ll shorten the length of time your home spends on the market, we can assure you it’ll make the staging process go a whole lot smoother.

1. Primp the Front Yard for Curb Appeal

House hunters love to drive by listings and check out neighborhoods before attending open houses. For that reason, it’s important to keep your front lawn trim and tidy—porch included—and make a positive first impression.

2. Tidy Hidden Storage Rooms So They Look Bigger

Believe it or not, people are going to want to see inside your garage, utility closets, and backyard sheds. Now’s the time to clean up (and perhaps invest in some industrial shelving) to make sure your storage rooms look spacious and organized.

3. Make the Entryway More Welcoming

Much like the front yard, an entryway sets the first impression of your place. Set up a sleek coat rack or accent table to keep yours organized—and offer a place for visitors to hang up their jackets during open house—and create an entrance that draws potential buyers in.

4. Clear the Way in the Hallways

A narrow hallway can make even the loftiest of homes feel cramped. So make sure and remove as much visual clutter in yours as possible—i.e. hanging hooks, photographs, and other artwork—especially the hall is super slender.

5. Showcase the Living Room

Living rooms should always be orderly and free of eyesores during open house showings. This calls for clearing out stacks of magazines, editing your bookshelves, and even paring down throw pillows and table accessories that can make the room feel heavy and smaller than it actually is.

6. Curate What’s in the Kitchen

Your kitchen is prime with places for potential buyers to scrutinize. This means your countertops stay clean and clear—a good rule of thumb is to have no more appliances showing— and your pantry and cupboards curated. Also, don’t forget to clean out your refrigerator, freezer, and under sink area, too, as they offer more sought-after storage space.

7. Keep Closets Streamlined

Whether it’s a hallway coat closet or a master suite walk-in, your home’s closets will have a major big impact on prospective buyers. Box up off-season apparel—or better yet, donate it—and remove extra hangers so yours looks spacious and streamlined.

8. Beautify the Bathroom

Everyone knows the difference a bathroom can make for a house hunter, so keeping yours orderly is imperative. Organize everything from your countertops (no one wants to see your makeup and toothbrushes!) to your linen closet and medicine cabinets, so people can visualize what they’ll do with the space.

9. Put in Some Work in the Office

If you’re lucky enough to have a proper office in your home, rest assured your potential buyers will want to see it. File away or shred old papers, clear off your desk, and cover up unsightly computer cords to create a study area that people will actually want to work in.

10. Touch and Tidy Up Play Areas

Kid’s playrooms should be every as tidy as any other bedroom in your place, and the same goes your pet’s play areas, too. Limit the number of toys you keep out and make sure to have a nice storage bin to stash them all when they’re not being used.

11. Create a Covetable Laundry Room

While it might seem unnecessary, your laundry room also needs to make a good impression. Make sure all of your cleaning products are put away nicely and floors and appliances are kept spotless to create the kind of laundry space prospective buyers will covet.

Source: Apartment Therapy

16 Easy Ways to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 22:35:27 GMT

Could your home use a bit of extra curb appeal? Your home’s exterior is like the cover of a book, setting the stage for what’s inside. And whether you’re interested in selling or just want to make some improvements for your own enjoyment, adding curb appeal is often an easy and inexpensive way to make your house look nicer and boost its value. Here are 16 projects that will help your home make a better first impression.

Go green

One of the most obvious (and most impactful) ways to boost curb appeal is to add some fresh greenery and flowers. Don’t worry if you don’t have the time or money to spend on putting in a garden—you can get the same effect by adding some planters and window boxes. Use plants to accentuate and frame key visual points, like windows and entryways, and if you don’t have room for a standing planter, hook up a hanging one. Even just one pretty plant arrangement can significantly add to your home’s exterior appearance.
Take care of your lawn

While we’re talking green thumbs, it’s important to note that lawn care is a big part of maintaining curb appeal. Regularly care for your lawn by mowing the grass, raking off leaves, and pulling weeds. Keep it well watered to prevent brown spots. As long as you keep up with it, lawn care won’t become a huge project. Live somewhere dry where grass has a tough time taking hold? Consider lawn alternatives like shrub beds or artificial turf.
Make your door pop

Boost curb appeal by having your front door stand out instead of blend in. Painting a front door only costs about $75, and is a pretty easy DIY job, even for beginners. Opt for a bold color that accentuates and enhances (rather than clashes with) the other colors of your home’s exterior. Don’t be afraid to go bright, but do hold up a swatch before painting to ensure the final product will be what you’re looking for. You can also use the Front Door Paint app, which lets you virtually test out different colors.
Let there be light

There’s nothing welcoming about a dark entryway. If you already have a sconce or hanging pendant by your front door, replace it with something a bit more fun and fresh. Clean off all cobwebs and debris around outdoor light fixtures, which will instantly make the space appear more bright and clean. If you need some additional light sources, hang some porch string lights or use solar powered lanterns to light up a walkway.
Embrace symmetry

Symmetrical patterns create focal points that are pleasing to look at and instantly make your home look more put together. Achieve the look by putting matching wall lanterns or plants on either side of your front door. If you don’t have room at your entryway, you can do the same thing around your garage door.
Makeover your mailbox

Swap out a dated mailbox with something more stylish. It’s a super easy project to take on, and can make an understated but noticeable difference in your home’s curb appeal. Depending on the type of mailbox that you need (i.e. a standing mailbox or one that’s attached to the wall), plan on spending about $50-$200 to replace it.
Clean your gutters

Clean gutters both inside and out, clearing out any debris and really scrubbing the outsides until they look good as new (or as close to new as you can get them looking). You’ll be in awe at what a little elbow grease can do.
Add some front door décor

Wreaths aren’t only for Christmas. You can find wreaths year-round that add an exceptional dose of added beauty to your front door. Look for wreaths made from dried or preserved greens and florals, or make your life even easier by purchasing one made from faux plants. Avoid seasonal elements that can date a wreath and make it appear out of place. Instead, go with something simple that can add elegance throughout an entire season.
Upgrade your house numbers

Quickly modernize the look of your home by removing your old house numbers and replacing them with something that has a bit more oomph. Choose a font that aligns with the architecture of your home but that is also distinctive enough to really grab the eye. Even if you’re not super handy, replacing the numbers is an easy job that can be done in about half an hour or less.
Hide electrical fixtures

An electrical box on the front of your house can really stand out, and not in a good way. Fortunately, a quick paint job can camouflage the fixture so it blends in instead of being an eyesore. Go with a color that’s the same as your home’s siding, and follow these tips for painting it correctly.
Power wash it off

There are few things more satisfying than power washing years of dirt and grime off your siding, porch, walkway, and driveway. If you don’t own a power washer, you can rent one from a big box hardware store like Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Stain your garage door

A new garage door is expensive, but you can get the look of a new door for a lot less money simply by staining it a new color. Start by power washing the door to get the surface completely clean, then paint your stain on. Here’s an easy guide for how to do it right.
Fix it up

Take care of any small repairs, like ripped screens, burned out bulbs, or chipped paint. Even tiny flaws can stand out against an otherwise picturesque exterior, so it’s worth taking a day to fix them. Walk around the outside of your house noting anything that requires a quick fix, and then get the tools you need and get to work.
Design a clear path

A well-defined path makes your home look more inviting and put together. You can go big and build one out of stone or brick, or you can just use visual cues like lighting and plants to line a clear path to your front door through the grass or around an existing concrete walkway.
Utilize outdoor furniture smartly

Too much outdoor furniture can clutter your home’s appearance, while too little can make it look scarce or neglected. Try to find a good balance somewhere in the middle, and be sure that all outdoor furniture you have is clean and in good condition. For small yards, think about putting in simple ceramic stools for seating and add some extra charm by setting up a small table with a pretty planter on the top.
Add new door hardware

Replace your front door’s existing hardware with something new for a quick and noticeable upgrade. Choose a color that contrasts with your door’s paint color, such as black hardware on a white door or brass hardware on a black door. Take it a step further by adding a fun door knocker for guests to use when they come by.

Giving your home a curb appeal boost can be done in just a day or weekend if you plan ahead and prioritize the projects that will really make a difference. Chances are, your home already has plenty of beautiful elements and it just needs some finishing touches to really look its best. Put some time and effort into it and you’ll be amazed by the results.

Source: Moving.com

9 Refreshing + Budget Decorating Ideas for Spring

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 16:00:36 GMT

t the top on our list this season are some fresh and easy decor updates that won’t break the bank. We’re talking about things like bringing in flowers or greenery, updating with zesty new colors and switching out accessories for lighter, "spring-ier" options.

I’ve gathered up some of my favorite budget-style upgrades that will help you freshen up your space and welcome spring into your home with a bang.

Supermarket Flower Arrangements

Fresh flowers are one of my very favorite spring updates, and you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get that chic, florist-designed look at home. Most supermarkets these days have a great selection of fresh flowers. And if you’re less comfortable creating your own arrangements, simply buy several bouquets of one color or type of flower and put them in a vase.

Groupings of Light Decor

Light, bright colors always scream spring to me. This is also a perfect example of how you can use groupings of objects to create some visual interest on a bookshelf, table or mantel. Even without flowers in them, vases work great as decor!

Other items like small bowls, little statues or bookends can be grouped together to create a similar effect. Other fun spring color options can include pinks, blues or coral.

These varied height vases from Z Gallerie would be a great jumpstart to your collection.

Make a Terrarium

If you’re a bit gun-shy about bringing some large plants into your home that need to be cared for, you might want to consider making a small terrarium.

You can use a large glass bowl, vase or fish bowl and easily add some of your favorite small plants or succulents. You can also move your terrarium around your house, depending on where the best light is coming from.

Add or Switch Out a Throw

If you’ve had a cozy, furry, fall throw draped over the back of your sofa or chair, now is a great time to switch it up with something a bit brighter and lighter for spring. This is bright, beautiful kantha throw that would work great as a spring-y option in your living room or bedroom.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider simply using some bright, colorful fabric you have leftover from another project, or opt for a brightly colored scarf from your closet.

Use Fruit or Veggies as Decor

With many more fruits and vegetable in season, an easy option is to try using some lush groupings of fruit as decor on your dining room table or in your kitchen.

You can create a mixture of different fruits for a great pop of color, or stick to a simpler grouping for a more streamlined look. And of course, you should choose your fruit and vegetables based on what your family already loves to eat!

Here is a pretty hammered gold serving bowl that would work great for oranges and clementines, lemons or even bananas.

Put an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen

Another great option for dipping your toes into the world of gardening is to create a small herb garden in your kitchen. Just like with the fruit, these are both beautiful to look at, and super functional if you’re someone who already loves to cook.

A window is a great spot for your herb garden, but clearing some room on your counter works well, too. You can choose to use beautiful vintage tins or small flower pots from your local hardware store.

Make It: How to Plant a Mini Herb Garden

Light a Fresh Spring Candle

While decor and greenery is a great way to spring-ify your home, don’t forget about the magic of scent. A favorite, easy, seasonal update I always like to use is candles. Florals and fruity smells always remind me of spring, and this gardenia and fig candle is a fave of mine for this time of year.

Discount home stores always have a great, inexpensive selection of candles, so try to find your favorite spring scent and buy a couple different ones so you have options.

Switch Out Your Hand Soap

In addition to candles, another great trick is to switch out your hand soap with a bright, fragrant spring option. You can update the soap in your bathrooms, guest bathrooms and even at your kitchen sink.

I think this lemon/mint scent from Method is the perfect spring scent.

Spring-ify Your Linens or Towels

Another easy spring upgrade is to simply switch out your towels or bed linens. Most of us have a few different sets of sheets for the beds in our homes, so why not save the lighter, brighter sheets sets for spring?

If you don’t have any existing spring options in your linen closet, consider making a smaller update such as adding a spring-y throw pillow to your bed or simply replacing the hand towels in your guest bathroom.

Source: HGTV

This Is the Best Time to Buy a House, According to Real Estate Experts

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 19:16:31 GMT

No matter how many times you’ve done it, purchasing a new home can be intimidating, stressful, and of course, incredibly exciting. Before you jump online and start drooling over wraparound porches, come up with a game plan. In addition to the advantages you’ll gain from finding the right realtor and researching your local market, figuring out the best time to buy a house can really pay off, whether that’s in the form of savings or a property in your ideal neighborhood.

For a commitment this big and a price tag this hefty, it’s a smart idea to “figure out your objectives,” says Matt van Winkle, a real estate agent and owner of RE/MAX Northwest. “Do you want to pick from the freshest selection? Are you okay with buying during a competitive time? Is your number one goal to spend the least amount possible?” Determining what you want when it comes to the process of home-buying is just as important as knowing you want four bedrooms and an open floor plan. The answers to these questions can impact when you decide to pour all of your energy into the search. It’s true that the housing market can vary wildly down to the zip code, and the market in one major city, like Los Angeles, won’t necessarily mirror the market in another, like New York City. However, housing experts agree that there are national trends and patterns that can help guide your decision-making. Here’s what they’ve discovered when it comes to timing your house-hunt:

If you want the most choices, buy a house in the spring or summer.

February and March is when you’ll first start to see an uptick in new listings online, says Skylar Olsen, director of economic research for Zillow. Sellers of single-family homes tend to be parents, and they often put their homes on the market in the spring with the goal of moving out before school starts back up. Around the same time, potential buyers are house-hunting, as they prefer to be out and about when the weather is warm, says Nadia Evangelou, a research economist for the National Association of Realtors. The combination of these two factors results in a period of about five months — March through July — when a buyer will have the largest selection of new listings on the market, but the most competition. Olsen sees the largest amount of homes being sold at list price or above during March, April and May, while Evangelou identifies June as the peak month for home-selling activity. But don’t let the prospect of paying full price scare you off. “Yes, you’re more likely to stretch your budget in order to compete with other buyers during the busy season,” says Olsen. “However, you’re also more likely to find the home of your dreams because you shopped when you had the most options available to you.”

If you're looking for a deal, buy a house in the winter.

Since most prospective buyers would rather casually scroll through online listings in PJs than go open-house hopping in puffy coats, winter is considered the off-season in the real estate world. Sellers strategically wait to list their homes during a period when they will generate the most interest, which is a big reason why there’s less inventory on the market during the colder months. So while you may not be spoiled for choice, you’ll have less competition for the houses that are up for sale at this time, which were either left over from the spring/summer or newly listed for any number of unique reasons. “Owners who list their homes during the off-season may be dealing with a time-sensitive situation (like relocation for a new job) that requires them to sell their properties as soon as possible,” says Olsen. A sense of urgency plus a smaller pool of buyers can equal wiggle room in pricing. But you live in a mild climate region, you say? Check out what's on the market in November and December. The hectic holiday season is enough to deter people from both selling and buying. “Out of the buyers that I’ve worked with, the ones that negotiated the best deals purchased a home between Thanksgiving and Christmas,” says van Winkle. It's certainly a hassle to buy and move during the holidays, but you may discover a hidden gem while everyone else is sipping eggnog — and scoop it up for a good price to boot.

Buying a home in August is the potential sweet spot.

In August, you'll see more price drops than you’d see in the spring or early summer and more inventory than in the winter, according to Olsen. “A lot of these homes are left over from the busiest buying months and sellers need to offer price cuts in order to unload their properties before the season is over,” she says. There are plenty of reasons why some houses sell more quickly than others, but keep in mind that less popular homes are not necessarily lower quality homes. You may find that sellers had listing price expectations that were too high earlier in the season, but they are now willing to negotiate. (Score!)

How far in advance should you look for a house to buy?

For homes located in places where the summers are brutally hot or unpleasant, shift this national timeline up a few months. “You’ll see a good amount of new listings in cities like Phoenix, Tampa or Miami during the month of January, which is usually a slow month elsewhere, and less activity in July,” says Olsen. If you live in a state where the weather is consistently nice year-round, you may not notice as large of a discrepancy between the number of sales and home prices when the seasons change, according to Evangelou. Also, some desirable areas are going to be pricey and competitive year-round. “In the Northwest, properties in areas near major job centers, like Seattle, are expensive and have appreciated at higher rates. Unlike in the early 2000's, people are just not willing to commute as far,” says van Winkle. So despite all the variables, how do you increase your chances of getting everything on your checklist? Start looking the second you know you’re interested in buying. "Keeping your eye on the market month after month will only work in your favor,” says Olsen. "Know what you can afford, know what your limits are, and move quickly when the perfect thing comes along."

Source: Good Housekeeping

9 Benefits of Owning a Vacation Home

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 18:14:50 GMT

Many people are unsure if buying a vacation home will pay off for them in the future. Some feel as if they will not spend enough time there or it will be too costly. There are actually many positive reasons to owning a vacation home, and they can be beneficial in various ways for the owner. Here are nine benefits of owning a vacation home.

Take Advantage of Tax Breaks

Everyone loves a good tax deduction. If the buyer decides to use the home as a true second home and not a rental property, then the mortgage interests and property taxes can be tax deductible. In order to qualify for the tax breaks, the second home cannot be rented out for more than two weeks out of the year.

Rental Income

There is always an option of renting out a vacation home when it is not occupied. If the vacation home is in a desirable spot, this could be an excellent source of extra income. The expenses of renting out a vacation home can sometimes be deducted as well.

It's Convenient

Having a vacation home is convenient for storing items. If the vacation home is on the lake, then it is easy to store floats, water ski products, and life jackets. This also works well if the home is located at the beach, in the mountains, or a winter location near favorite skiing spots. No need to worry about packing when all of the supplies are already accounted for.

Long-Term Profits

Real estate value fluctuates throughout the year, but vacation homes have a great chance to retain their value and appreciate. This is largely due to the popular areas and cities that the vacation homes are located.

Comfortable and Familiar

Being comfortable on vacation is a must. Having a vacation home that is familiar makes it much more comfortable on each stay. A vacation home allows owners to be themselves with their friends and families or easily make new friends with neighbors.

Place for Gatherings

Family get-togethers are great places to make memories with family, and a vacation home could be the perfect setting for those get-togethers. Start a new yearly tradition with family as everyone gathers at the vacation home for a holiday or family reunion. The vacation home can also be passed down to future generations as the gatherings become traditions.

Prepare for Retirement

A vacation home gives buyers a place to retreat when they are ready to retire. When retirement hits, the first home can be sold and profits can go towards the mortgage for a vacation home or new renovations. A second home gives the buyer a head start on retirement and creates an easier transition to retirement.

Getaways Just Got Easier

There is no more deciding where to go on vacations once a vacation home is purchased. The location of the second home will be the go-to spot for the family. The freedom of choosing the length of vacations and who vacations with them is all up to the owner. This is one of the top reasons to purchase a vacation home.

Access to Other Vacation Homes

A vacation home is usually located in a popular area with many retail, dining, and entertainment options. This gives owners the options to trade time with other vacation home owners in different regions. Owners are then able to enjoy new vacations in different locations while still feeling at home.

There is plenty to consider before purchasing a vacation home, but these are some excellent benefits to help make the decision easier. If you are considering purchasing a vacation home, please contact us today! First Savings Mortgage has helped many clients find a new home, and they are looking forward to helping you as well.

Source: First Savings Mortgage

6 Ways Home Buyers Mess Up Getting a Mortgage

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 23:55:26 GMT

Getting a mortgage is, by general consensus, the most treacherous part of buying a home. In a recent survey, 42% of home buyers said they found the mortgage experience “stressful,” and 32% found it “complicated.” Even lenders agree that it's often a struggle.

“A lot can go wrong,” says Staci Titsworth, regional manager at PNC Mortgage in Pittsburgh.

If you're out to buy a home, you have to be vigilant. To clue you ipre-anto the pitfalls, here are six of the most common ways people mess up getting a mortgage.

Waiting until you can make a 20% down payment

A 20% down payment is the golden number when applying for a conventional home loan, since it enables you to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI), an extra monthly fee of 0.3% to 1.15% of your total loan amount. But with mortgage rates where they are today—in a word, low—waiting for that magic 20% could be a huge mistake, since the more time passes, the higher mortgage rates and home prices may go!

All of which means it may be worth discussing your home-buying prospects with lenders right now. To get a ballpark figure of what you can afford and how your down payment affects your finances, punch your salary and other numbers into a home affordability calculator.

Meeting with only one mortgage lender

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, about half of U.S. home buyers only meet with one mortgage lender before signing up for a home loan. But these borrowers could be missing out in a big way. Why? Because lenders' offers and interest rates vary, and even nabbing a slightly lower interest rate can save you big bucks over the long haul.

In fact, a borrower taking out a 30-year fixed rate conventional loan can get rates that vary by more than half a percent, the CFPB has found. So, getting an interest rate of 4.0% instead of 4.5% on a $200,000, 30-year fixed mortgage translates into savings of approximately $60 per month, or $3,500 over the first five years.

So to make sure you're getting the best deal possible, meet with at least three mortgage lenders. You’ll want to start your search early (ideally, at least 60 days before you start seriously looking at homes). When you meet with each lender, get what's called a good-faith estimate, which breaks down the terms of the mortgage, including the interest rate and fees, so that you can make an apples-to-apples comparison between offers.

Getting pre-qualified rather than pre-approved

Mortgage pre-qualification and mortgage pre-approval may sound alike, but they’re completely different. Pre-qualification entails a basic overview of a borrower’s ability to get a loan. You provide a mortgage lender with information—about your income, assets, debts, and credit—but you don't need to produce any paperwork to back it up. In return, you’ll get a rough estimate of what size loan you can afford, but it's by no means a guarantee that you'll actually get approved for the loan when you go to buy a home.

Mortgage pre-approval, meanwhile, is an in-depth process that involves a lender running a credit check and verifying your income and assets. Then an underwriter does a preliminary review of your financial portfolio and, if all goes well, issues a letter of pre-approval—a written commitment for financing up to a certain loan amount.

Bottom line? If you're serious about buying a house, you need to be pre-approved, since many sellers will accept offers only from pre-approved buyers, says Ray Rodriguez, New York City regional mortgage sales manager at TD Bank. Here's how to start the process of mortgage pre-approval.

Moving money around

To get pre-approved, you have to show you have enough cash in reserves to afford the down payment. (Presenting your mortgage lender with bank statements is the easiest way to do this.) Nonetheless, your loan still needs to go through underwriting while you're under contract for your loan to be approved. Because the underwriter will check to see that your finances have remained the same, the last thing you want to do is move money around while you’re in the process of buying a house. Shifting large amounts of money out or even into your accounts is a huge red flag, says Casey Fleming, mortgage adviser and author of "The Loan Guide: How to Get the Best Possible Mortgage."

So if you're in contract for a home, your money should stay put.

Applying for new lines of credit

If you apply for a new credit card or request a credit limit increase a few months before closing, watch out: Credit inquiries ding your credit score by up to five points. So, don’t let the credit inquiries add up.

"Worse than the actual hit on your credit score is any pattern of trying to borrow more money all at once,” says Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty. Translation: Applying for multiple lines of credit while you’re buying a house can make your mortgage lender think that you’re desperate for money—a signal that could change your mortgage terms or even get you denied altogether, even if you've got a closing date on the books.

Changing jobs

Mortgage lenders like to see at least two years of consistent income history when pre-approving a loan. Consequently, changing jobs while you’re under contract on a property can create a big issue in the eyes of an underwriter.

Your best bet? Try to wait until after you've closed on your house to change jobs. If you're forced to switch before closing, you should alert your loan officer immediately. Depending on the lender, you may simply need to provide a written verification of employment from your new employer that states your job status and income, says Shashank Shekhar, the founder and CEO of Arcus Lending in San Jose, CA.

Source: Realtor.com

10 Important Features to Consider When Buying a House

Sun, 23 Feb 2020 02:35:00 GMT

When buying a house, everyone has priorities. The buying process is complex and takes time, and it’s easy to get off track. Having written priorities is a helpful way to guide you through the process without forgetting some of the features that are important to you and your family. Your realtor will also want to understand your prioritized list. Understanding which features mean the most will help eliminate houses that won’t work for you and compare the homes that will.

In this article, we’ll discuss about things to consider when buying a new house. Each will rank differently in importance for individual buyers, but all points are worth examining. If you haven’t already thought seriously about these factors, now’s your chance. And, if you’re buying the home with your special someone, talk it over to make sure you agree on the importance of each feature. Let’s check it out.

1. Location of the house

Buyers want to find a location that allows easy access to the places they frequent the most (work, school, shopping, recreation, place of worship, friends and family). Look for easy access to the main roads and check traffic flow. Checking this out before a purchase can help save you from hassles getting out of the neighborhood and onto the main thoroughfare or from an unreasonably long commute.

The location of the home within the neighborhood is also important to many people. Some people prefer a lot near the main entry, while others like to be away from traffic and further into the development. If there is a park, pool or recreation area, some owners would choose the closest available lot. Cul-de-sacs are favored by some, and some people like living on the main boulevard. Talk about your preferences, and ask your realtor if certain lot locations bring a higher purchase price.

2. The size of the lot

Many people give little thought to the size of the lot the house sits on. Within a neighborhood, the lot sizes might be fairly similar. Once you’re going to showings and looking at what’s available, you’ll soon see if you have a clear preference of large or small, corner or interior. Some lots are pie-shaped; some are rectangular, and some are irregular in shape. Depending on the level of privacy, how you will use the lawn, and the length of the driveway, this might matter to you.

If there seems to be a question about where one lot ends, and another begins, check the lot description and dimensions with your realtor. If you find a house that includes two lots, think about the possibilities. If the second lot is buildable, you could possibly add another building (extra garage, workshop, etc.) or you might split the property, build a second home and sell it, or sell the lot as is.

3. Number of bedrooms

Each family will have an idea of how many bedrooms they would like. Most people will want at least two, and if there are children, the number increases. Some families like their kids to share bedrooms, while others like separate bedrooms for each to accommodate different bedtimes and study habits. If you have regular visitors for any length of time, it’s nice to have a bedroom that is designated as a guest room.

An extra bedroom often doubles as an office, den, kids’ playroom, or exercise room. Many hobbies can require working space and storage for supplies, and an extra bedroom serves this purpose well. Think carefully about your lifestyle and what will enhance it.

4. Number of bathrooms

Decide ahead of time how many bathrooms you prefer. Older homes might have only one bathroom, and buyers will often look for ways to add another. If there is only one bathroom, be sure you can live with that arrangement if remodeling isn’t feasible. Newer homes generally have two or more bathrooms, although some bathrooms might not have a tub or shower.

The size and style of bathroom is important as well. Do you want a bathtub or shower or both? Jacuzzi tubs are popular for relaxing, and some people prefer a shower stall for easy access. If you need a handicap accessible bathroom, you can look for that, or a sizable bath that could be remodeled. Think about the people (including guests) who will be using the bathrooms, and you’ll get a clearer idea of the size and style of bathroom that will work best for your family.

5. Kitchen layout

The kitchen truly seems to be the heart of the home. It is where great food is created for the family and friends who gather there. When guests arrive, they usually end up hanging out in the kitchen, and because it’s a center of activity and entertainment, the size and layout are important. Be clear on whether you need a large gourmet kitchen with lots of counter space, sinks and storage or if a typical kitchen will suffice.

Each family has different ideas about cooking. There’s the person who said the only reason there was a kitchen is because it came with the house! In that case, any kitchen would do. Then, there’s the vegetarian who cooks daily and uses a lot of fresh ingredients, or the quick cook who microwaves all the meals. Some people entertain a lot or have large families to feed. Whatever style of cooking you are into, the kitchen will require a close look.

If you have one person doing all the cooking for only two people, a modest kitchen might be adequate. Parents who are teaching children to cook healthy meals might like more space. Whatever your preferences in the kitchen, jot them down and discuss them with your realtor so you’re looking for the best option for your family.

6. The age, style and condition of home appliances

Appliances are expensive to replace. Take the time to estimate the age and condition of each. You may also have some strong preferences. For instance, you might enjoy cooking on a gas stove and dislike using an electric range. For some people, these types of differences can be deal breakers. If they are for you, let your realtor know.

A typical kitchen has many appliances. If there are any you can’t do without, check to see that the home provides that convenience or that there is room to add it later. Some are easier to add than others (microwave compared to a dishwasher if space is limited). Check the washer, dryer, water heater and water softener as well as the furnace or boiler, air conditioner and humidifier. If there are fireplaces or wood-stoves, it’s good to know if they have been maintained properly.

You can make an educated guess at the age of the appliances, and your home inspector can report on it later. When looking at a home, don’t assume that all appliances will stay with the house. Check the property listing to see which are part of the purchase and which are not. If most of the appliances and mechanical systems seem dated, you need to be aware of replacement costs.

7. Age of the house

If you are only interested in new construction, this is irrelevant. However, if you are willing to look at all houses in your price range that meet your basic requirements, you may see homes from several decades. Older homes can have a character that appeals, and they may also need more repairs and upgrades. Make sure you have the time, inclination and budget to enjoy managing these projects.

Building codes change over the years, and it would be good to have a basic understanding of some of the more impactful differences when looking at homes built under a different set of rules. Your realtor might have this knowledge or would know where to find the answers. If you’re looking for a certain vintage and style, you might already be aware of how homes were constructed at that time.

8. Purchase price

Before even looking, you should determine your price range and get pre-approved for a loan. Buying a single-family home is a huge investment, and there’s always more to it than just the purchase price. Think about how all costs will affect your finances and stick to your decision on price range and mortgage payment.

9. Seller’s incentive to sell

When looking for homes, you will find that some sellers are more motivated than others. Some people will place their home on the market but don’t really care if it sells or not. If not, they are happy to continue living there and will try again later. With this type of sale, there is not usually much wiggle room on the price.

There are times, however, when a seller is highly motivated to sell. Examples might be: an estate sale, a job relocation and need to move out of state, or someone paying two mortgages and wanting to sell and get back to only one payment. Your realtor will help you determine how motivated the seller might be and how to draft the offer and counteroffers to get the best price.

10. Maintenance mode

Unless you’re buying new construction, there is generally quite a list of potential maintenance items. When looking at the house, you are probably making a written or mental list of all the things that could use a little help. They might be repairs, large or small, replacements or additions that would make the house a home.

Some items might be mainly cosmetic, and others might take a lot of time and money to complete. Be sure you write them down and add it up. Is it a reasonable list or would it disrupt your family life or present a financial crunch?

Staying true to your priorities will be important in finding the right home for you and your family. Location, lot size, bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen are as important to your enjoyment of the home as they will be for the resale. Understanding the age and condition of the home, appliances and components will help you determine how much work (and money) will be needed to maintain it over time. Once you know this, you can look at possible price offers that could make it a worthwhile investment for you.

Source: Homeia

12 Small Entryway Ideas and the Genius Pieces You Need to Create One

Sat, 15 Feb 2020 00:12:00 GMT

Whether your front door opens into a grand, classical entryway (dreams!) or right onto the dark corner of the kitchen (reality), that will be the first place your guests see in your home. Also: You. It will be the first spot that greets you after work in the evening. “Even small foyers are the first impression," says interior designer Peter Dunham, who advises a bold look for this part of your home even if it isn't exactly large, or isn't even technically its own room. "Small foyers give one an ideal situation for high-carat impact... that will easily make up for any lack of space by being luxe and special." The following small entryway ideas—and the perfect products to see them through—will turn your non-foyer into a pleasant entryway no matter what its size or scale. Discover 12 ways to make a great first impression, even if all you have is a blank wall by the door.

1. Mount wall hooks.

Having a hook for your guests' outerwear—and, okay, your own sopping wet raincoat—will make them feel as if you've actually designed the space with their arrival in mind. Just take the time to find the stud before mounting them; you don't want these falling off the wall when you pile on the coats!

2. Pull up a small chair or bench.

Even a wee bench, pressed up against the wall by the door, will suffice. As would a single chair—the idea is just to carve out a spot for your guests to take off their shoes when they enter or plop down their purses. Minimal square footage required.

3. Try a wall covering.

As a way to define the space and strengthen those first impressions, "don’t clutter the space with anything extraneous, but do use a large-scale geometric or boldly colored chinoiserie wallpaper on the walls and ceiling," Peter advises. "If the budget is tight, paint [it] a bold color. If you're in a quandary as to what shade, do what Helena Rubinstein did: She went to her closet to look for a color she loved, cut a square from a Schiaparelli coat, and instructed David Hicks to match the walls.”

4. Define the space using a rug.

Especially if you're dealing with a foyer that's really just the wall of another room, setting down a rug in that area will make it feel like a unified, separate entryway. (Note to self: Get one that's easy to clean!

5. Hang a floating shelf.

A floating shelf is perfect for dropping keys and stacking mail without taking up any floor space at all. Find one with built-in hooks or install your own underneath to make the most of your wall space.

6. Yes to a statement lighting fixture.

As designer Phillip Thomas once told us, "a large light fixture can make a room feel larger and taller." A bold pendant or modern chandelier also makes a memorable—and bright—first impression.

7. Paint the door a bold color.

The entryway of designer CeCe Barfield's Gramercy Park home is restricted to a door at the end of a long hallway, because there's really no room for other furniture because of the way the hall's designed. To define and draw attention to the space, she painted the door a bright green. You could do the same!

8. Add a small console table.

If you have a wedge of floor space, consider placing a petite console table or chest in the entry. Find one that has storage, or utilize the area underneath to stash shoes, bags, and all those other things you tend to trip over on your way out the door.

9. Bring in extra storage.

If you find the floor near your front door cluttered with shoes, bags, and umbrellas, reclaim the space with storage specifically suited to holding those items.

10. Hang a mirror.

A mirror by the front door is not just for checking your outfit on your way out the door. It can also help make the space feel bigger and brighter, which is especially helpful if your entrance is far from natural light.

11. Find a mail sorter.

One of the biggest entryway pains has to be the ever-expanding pile of mail you're confronted with, which is why a handy-dandy sorter is such a good idea.

12. Bring in plant friends.

Add some life to your entry with a plant or two (or three! or four!). Choose a colorful planter or plant stand to make more of an impact, either to sit on the floor or be hung up on the wall.

Source: architectural digest

What to Do at an Open House – Home Buyer Etiquette & What to Look For

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 17:46:03 GMT

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you might be wondering, “Should I buy a house now or wait?” It’s an important question. And, one of the best ways to determine if you’re ready to buy is to start visiting open houses to get a feel for what’s on the market, what you like, what you don’t, and how much house you can afford.

Open houses are also a great way for buyers to quickly learn a lot about a home. The listing agent is present and can answer questions directly, which can save quite a bit of time.

But what should you really look for, and ask, during an open house? Let’s take a look.

Benefits of Touring Open Houses

Touring open houses can be an incredible learning experience, even if you’re not quite ready to buy yet.

First, going through a lot of open houses can help you discover what you really want in your dream home, and what you don’t. You’ll start to get a firmer picture of your priorities, and you’ll learn not to be swayed by the smell of freshly baked cookies or that beautiful paint color in the living room.

Visiting dozens of homes also teaches you, through sheer exposure, how to overlook the superficial flaws (like terrible staging or awful paint) and spot a great home when you see one. You’ll also learn how to quickly spot a dud.

You’ll gain a thorough understanding of home pricing in your community. Over time (and dozens of tours), you’ll know when an asking price is fair for a home, and when the owner is asking too much.

You’ll also learn how to communicate effectively with real estate agents. After you talk to a few agents, you’ll have a better sense of the lingo they use and the information they’re willing to share. You’ll also refine your own list of questions and know exactly what you need to ask to get the information you want.

If you know you’re going to eventually sell your home, touring open houses can give you some remodeling ideas that will increase your home’s value.

What to Look for During an Open House

When you walk into an open house, it’s easy to get distracted by the beautiful living room or the perfectly staged bedrooms. However, you need to pay attention to the details of the home to determine if it’s a good buy, or a dud with serious problems.

So, what do you need to look for?

1. Any Kind of Damage or Neglect

Every home is going to have some wear and tear. However, what you want to look for are obvious signs of damage or neglect:

Look carefully at the baseboards, especially in the basement. Any signs of staining or warping can indicate past flooding or burst pipes. Stains on the ceiling can indicate a leaking roof. Pay attention to your nose as you walk through; if a room or area smells musty, it might indicate mold or mildew.
Open up cabinets under the kitchen and bathroom sinks and look for tiny black spots on the back wall; this indicates the presence of mold. You should also look for black spots in the caulking around tubs and sinks.
Look at exposed pipes carefully and check for rust or signs of leaking.
If the home’s hardwood floors are hidden under lots of rugs, the owner might be trying to hide damage to the wood. If you can, discreetly lift up the rugs to check out what’s underneath.
Look carefully at the windows. If there is any condensation built up inside the glass, it’s a sign they’re leaking and likely need to be replaced. Paint that is flaking or bubbling around the windows might also indicate that moisture is getting in.
Pay attention to cracks in the ceiling. Small hairline cracks are normal and usually nothing to worry about; they’re just a sign of the home settling. Larger cracks might indicate a problem with the foundation.
Open and close doors and windows. If they stick or are hard to open, this might be another clue that there are foundation problems.
Feel around windows, doors, and electrical outlets for any drafts. While drafts can be easily fixed with caulk, they’re also a sign of deferred maintenance.

If this is a home you feel you might want to make an offer on, take pictures of any damage as you walk through each room. You won’t remember everything, and being able to see the damage again can help you craft a better offer.

2. The Neighbors

When you buy a home, you’re also buying neighbors too. Look carefully at the people you might be living next to (this includes any homes that border the backyard as well).

How well do they maintain their house and yard? Do they have any children or pets? Are those pets outside barking right now? Is their trash put away neatly or is it flowing all over the yard? Are there lots of cars in the driveway?

If you think you might make an offer on this home, go for a walk to get a feel for the neighborhood. Knock on a few doors and talk to the neighbors. Ask them how they like living there, what the neighborhood is like, and anything they know about the home you just toured. Is there anything they wish they’d known about the neighborhood before they moved in?

You might uncover some enlightening information by simply talking to the people already living there.

It’s also important to visit the neighborhood on different days, and at and different times, especially weekends. You’ll want to find out beforehand if you’d be living next to a late-night party animal.

3. Closet Space

You might not think closet space would be a deal-breaker, but once you’re in your new home for six months and there’s no room for any of your stuff, you’ll think otherwise.

Storage space is an incredibly important feature to pay attention to. No one wants to live in a sea of clutter, but that’s exactly what you’ll be doing if you buy a home that won’t fit your current lifestyle. Unless you’re ready to downsize, you need a home with adequate storage.

Older homes typically have fewer closets and pantry space, so count closets and measure shelf space before you make an offer.

4. Privacy

As you walk through the home, look through each and every window. Is there some distance between you and your next-door neighbor, or can they see your freckles when you’re at the window?

A lack of privacy might not seem like a big deal on day one, but after a year, it might really start to bother you. Make sure you know what you can tolerate in terms of privacy.

5. Natural Air Flow

Look carefully at how the home is laid out. Are the doors and windows positioned so that you can open everything up and take advantage of the breeze come summer?

The flow of a home is something that buyers often overlook. However, keep in mind that opening the windows will lower your utility bills. Good airflow also keeps moisture moving through the home, and may help reduce allergies.

6. Other Buyers

It can be helpful to people watch for a few minutes before walking into an open house, since the behavior of people coming and going can give you some important clues.

For example, if you notice that people aren’t spending a lot of time touring the home, it might mean there are some issues. If you notice people lingering around the yard and taking their time talking to the agent, it might indicate that the property isn’t going to last long.

When you’re inside the home, pay attention to what other buyers are talking about and looking at. Their comments can clue you in to how hot, or not, the property is.

Questions to Ask at an Open House

So, you’ve looked around and you’ve got a good feeling about the house. What should you ask the agent when you wrap up your tour?

1. What Problems Are Present in the Home?

This is probably the most important question you need to ask the listing agent at an open house.

In most states, agents have to disclose all known problems with a home, especially when it comes to structural problems or code violations. However, not all states require full disclosure, which is why getting a home inspection is so important. While you might be tempted to save money by skipping an inspection, not getting one is one of the most common mistakes new home buyers make.

Ask the agent to give you a copy of the seller’s disclosure, which details every issue the current owner knows about.

2. Have There Been Any Price Changes?

The listing agent can tell you about the home’s listing price, and any drops that have occurred since it went on the market.

Price fluctuations can give you some important clues. First, they indicate that the seller is flexible on pricing and might be willing to drop it down even further if you make an offer.

Several price drops might also indicate problems. For example, previous buyers might have made offers and hired a home inspector, only to discover issues that made them walk away. The owner then might have dropped the price to account for these issues, or simply to entice a new pool of buyers.

3. How Long Has The Home Been on the Market?

This information is easy to find out on your own, so look at this question as a way to gather information indirectly.

For example, the agent might let you know that it’s newly listed, and there has been a lot of interest already. This, in turn, lets you know that if you love the house, you might want to make an offer that day. On the other hand, if the agent says that the home has been on the market for a while, they might explain why it hasn’t sold yet. This information can give you some leverage if you decide to make an offer.

4. Have There Been Any Offers on the Home?

The listing agent will likely tell you right away if there’s been a recent offer on the home. After all, they’d love nothing more than to start a bidding war that nets them a higher commission.

However, if there are past offers that the owner walked away from, this might mean they’re more motivated to sell now. It might also mean the opposite – that they’re firm on their asking price and not willing to negotiate.

5. What Is the Neighborhood Like?

This is an important question that many home buyers don’t think to ask. Remember, you can always change the look and feel of your home, but you can’t really change the neighborhood you live in.

Ask the listing agent to tell you about the neighborhood. How much traffic comes through? What is the speed limit? Is this home a good representation of other homes in the neighborhood?

6. What Are the Local Schools Like?

Schools are a huge selling point for homes. Even if you don’t have children, it’s important to know what kind of district you’re moving into, and how well it’s rated.

Why? Because homes located in great school districts sell much faster than homes located in low-performing districts. If you love a home but it’s in a low-performing district, then it might take longer to sell when you’re ready to move on. However, if it’s in a great district, you’ll probably have more potential buyers coming through the door.

7. Why Are the Owners Selling the Home?

This is a tricky question that agents often can’t, or won’t, answer truthfully. The reason is that a seller’s agent has their client’s best interests at heart. And, this means not disclosing a client’s personal information, including their reason for selling.

So, why should you ask this question? Well, because some agents will tell you why their client is selling. In some circumstances, this knowledge can give you more leverage during negotiations.

At the very least, an agent’s hesitation or body language can clue you in that there’s more to the story, and part of that story might mean problems with the house itself. If you’re working with a buyer’s agent, they might be able to dig around and uncover what’s going on.

8. What Feedback Have You Received From Other Agents?

This is another one of those questions that an agent may or may not answer truthfully. But it’s worth asking, because you might get an agent that has no qualms talking about both the positive and negative feedback they’ve received from past showings.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

There are some signs that can clue you in that this perfectly staged home isn’t as “perfect” as it seems.

1. Lots of Fragrance

Homes that smell strongly of cleaning products, Febreze, or other air fresheners might be trying to hide the smell of pet accidents, cigarette smoke, mold, or mildew.

As you walk through the home, look carefully at the floors and ceilings. Are there any stains on the carpet that might be from pet accidents? Any stains or discoloration on the walls and ceilings that might be from a smoker or a leaky roof?

2. Signs of Neglect

If you walk into a home and notice the paint is old and chipped, the faucet is leaking, and there are weeds in the garden bed, keep in mind that an owner who doesn’t take care of the little things probably hasn’t taken care of the big things either.

These clues might indicate that there are larger problems with the home, such as a leaky roof or old plumbing.

3. Several Homes for Sale in the Neighborhood

If you notice that there are several homes for sale in the area, put on your sleuthing hat to find out why, as this trend could indicate that there is an issue.

For example, perhaps crime is an increasing problem and people are looking to relocate to a safer neighborhood. Or, maybe a new development is scheduled to be built in the upcoming months, and owners don’t want to deal with the increased traffic and noise of construction.

Whatever the reason, it’s important to find out what’s going on in the neighborhood so you don’t end up being stuck in an area where you’re not safe or comfortable.

4. Lots of Recent Renovations

A home with a brand-new kitchen or updated bathroom can be appealing to buyers. However, it’s important to keep an eye on these renovations, as some homeowners might cut corners, or go with a budget contractor, in order to make their home more salable as quickly as possible. It might look great during the open house, but a shoddy job will come back to haunt you after you move in.

If you decide to make an offer, make sure you hire a home inspector or structural engineer to go over every inch of the home; they’ll be able to spot a poor job in a heartbeat. This will also help you avoid a DIY home improvement disaster, which can get very expensive.

5. Unfinished Construction

You’ve walked into the home of your dreams, only to find that the “finished basement” isn’t quite finished yet. The drywall is still stacked in the corner, and there are open wires running through the studs in the ceiling. What’s going on?

Unfinished construction should be an immediate red flag. It could be a sign that the seller ran out of money for the project, or that the contractor ran into structural problems or other issues that they didn’t want to deal with. Whatever the reason, you need to find out why the seller was willing to hold an open house before everything was completed.

Keep in mind that banks are sometimes reluctant to loan money for a home with any unfinished construction. If you fall in love with a home in this category, contact your bank before you make an offer to confirm they’ll approve your mortgage.

You’ll also need to look carefully at your finances and determine how much it will cost to finish the project yourself.

5 Etiquette Tips for Every Open House

As you might imagine, there is some open house etiquette that you should follow.

1. Do Follow the Rules

Some homeowners request that potential buyers remove their shoes before they tour the home. This is much more likely if it’s raining or snowing outside. Save yourself time and energy on open house day by wearing slip-on shoes with socks.

2. Don’t Bring Children or Pets Along

Children and pets don’t belong at an open house. Children can easily break something or make a mess at the hors-d’oeuvres bar, and pets can track in dirt from outside. Leave your kids and pets at home with a sitter.

3. Do Introduce Yourself and Sign In

Agents want to know who’s coming and going in the home, so they’ll likely be front and center when you walk through the door. Even if you’re “just browsing,” be polite and introduce yourself.

Most agents put out a sign-in sheet so they can continue to market the home once the open house is over. It also helps them track how much foot traffic the open house generated.

Be nice and sign in. You don’t have to include your contact information if you’re not interested in further marketing from the agent, but putting down your name will at least ensure that the agent gets an accurate traffic count.

4. Don’t Crowd Other Prospective Buyers

It’s good etiquette to wait until others have vacated a room before you enter. This gives the other prospective buyers time and space to really look, instead of feeling “pushed out” by another buyer who’s looking at the same space.

5. Do Mention Problem Areas to the Agent

If you notice things like mold under the kitchen sink or a water hose lying on the grass that might pose a tripping hazard, mention it to the agent. They can quickly fix the problem, or, if it’s a larger issue with the home, they can alert the seller to address the issue.

Final Word

Even if you’re not quite ready to buy, it can still be worth your time to visit open houses, especially if you have an idea of where you’d like to buy someday. Open houses can help you determine what you really want in your home, and what you don’t. You can also get a better feel for the neighborhood you’d like to relocate to.

If you’ve never been to an open house, don’t feel intimidated. Many first-time home buyers think that they’ll be hounded by a pushy agent trying to sell the home; however, the majority of agents know to step back and let buyers look at their own pace.

Source: Money Crashers

Top 10 Home Improvement Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 18:56:36 GMT

It doesn't matter if you've bought a newly built home, a condo in a maintained community, or a fixer-upper—owning your own place brings out the home improvement itch in us all (or at least requires us to do necessary repairs and maintenance tasks). Here are ten pieces of advice to help turn your dwelling place into a better home.

10. Choose the Improvements That Add the Most Value to Your Home

If you were offered $100,000, no strings attached, what home improvements would you do? Chances are, a long laundry list of changes come to mind, from refinishing the hardwood floors to adding a new bathroom. Some home improvements, however, are more likely to increase your home's value than others. Although you shouldn't think of your home as an investment, with limited home improvement funds, it's good to consider whether a project has a decent return on investment.

9. Tackle the Quick Projects That Are Most Timely

Whether winter is coming or you're considering projects in another season, some home improvements are more urgent than others—saving you money immediately or preventing devastating damage. Sometimes it only takes ten minutes or less to make simple changes around the house that boost your living space.

8. Decide to DIY or Not

Even if you're a weekend warrior with a well-stocked workshop, not all home improvement projects are suitable to do yourself (or at least, without the help of a professional). Know your limits, start small if you're a beginner, and then keep calm and DIY on (if you so wish).

7. Hone Your Home Improvement Skills

Big projects or small, probably all of us could stand to learn some decent home repair or home improvement skills. (All around the home, there are things we should never have to pay others to fix for us.) Learn Bob Villa-worthy skills and help others at the same time by volunteering or through free clinics and other resources. Turn to great reading resources and try starter projects too. If you get stuck on a project, iOS app Fountain will connect you to a home improvement expert to answer your question for $5.

6. Find Inspiration for Your Next Home Project

Pinterest is your friend, homeowners. As is Houzz, This Old House, and BHG. Zillow Diggs is pretty neat because it not only shows you project photos, but cost estimates and contractors as well. You can also binge watch HGTV on Netflix, but I'm warning you, you may never leave the house again.

5. Get the Right Tools

You can't really improve your home much with just your bare hands (you'll need a multi-tool at least!). Equip your toolbox with the essential tools for any minor repair or major project, such as basic plumbing tools. Don't forget your smartphone might be the best DIY tool in your kit, though, and, when all else fails, there's duct tape.

4. Find Money for Your Home Improvement

Unfortunately, most home improvements do not pay for themselves. If you can't afford to finance the project in full with cash, know the different ways you can finance your home improvement without putting your home at risk. Also, if you know the difference between tax breaks you get for home repairs or home improvements, you can make the proper deductions at tax time and get some money back from your project. Similarly, if you're paying private mortgage insurance, home improvements that increase the value of your home could help you eliminate that cost, which, although it doesn't raise funds for your project, can reduce your housing expenses overall.

3. Choose the Right Contractor

About as important as finding a good dentist and finding a good therapist: Finding a responsible handyman or contractor. Horror stories of homeowners being scammed by contractors or having work done so shoddily that it cost thousands of dollars to redo (not to mention the money already spent) give me the shivers. Vet your contractors carefully:

2. Save Money on Your Home Improvement Projects

The more money we save on one home improvement project, the more we have left for all the other ones we want to do. In addition to knowing the remodeling projects that offer the most bang for your buck, know which elements of a project you can splurge or skimp on—spend more on items that are hard to replace, such as the bathtub, but skimp on the faucet, for example, or spend more on a professional range if you're a gourmet cook and save on the decorative tiles and flooring that look like premium materials.

1. Have a Plan

Last but not least, one of the worst things you can do when it comes to home improvements is to start a project without the major details—cost, time, materials, and design—as realistic as possible from the start. Nothing costs more than having to "change horses in midstream" (e.g., you want to move the fridge somewhere else now or want to change your tile choice). Use design tools to conceptualize your project and add a healthy buffer (10-15% more) to your time and financial budget to account for the inevitable surprises.

Even if you don't do major projects like remodeling the kitchen or building a deck, it's wise to set aside some money each year for repair costs and use an essential maintenance calendar to keep your home sweet home in tip-top shape all year round.

Source: LifeHacker

Am I Ready to Sell My House?

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 17:17:41 GMT

Almost every day, someone calls The Dave Ramsey Show to ask Dave if he thinks they're ready to buy a home. But there's another side of homeownership that doesn't get as much attention: When are you ready to sell your house?

It's an important question to answer since selling at the wrong time can cause trouble for years to come.

1. You've got equity on your side.

For most homeowners, being financially ready to sell your house comes down to one factor: equity. During the housing meltdown of 2008–09, millions of homeowners found themselves with negative equity, which meant they owed more on their homes than they were worth.

Clearly, selling your home when you have negative equity is a bad deal. That's called a short sale. Breaking even on your home sale is better, but it's still not ideal. If you're in either situation, don't sell unless you have to in order to avoid bankruptcy or foreclosure.

For the last several years, home values have been on the rise—by leaps and bounds in many cases—and that means most homeowners are building equity. Their homes are now worth more than they owe on them, and that trend will persist as they pay down their mortgages and home values continue to increase.

Figuring out how much equity you have may sound complicated, but the math is actually simple. Here's how it works:

First, grab your latest mortgage statement and find your current mortgage balance.

Next, you'll need to know your home value. While it's tempting to use figures from online valuation sites to determine how much your home is worth, they're not always accurate. Ask an experienced real estate agent to run a free comparative market analysis (CMA) for the best estimate.

Once you have those two numbers in hand, simply subtract your current mortgage balance from your home's estimated market value. The difference will give you a good idea of how much equity you have to work with.

So how much equity is enough? At the very least you want to have enough equity to pay off your current mortgage with enough left over to provide a 20% down payment. But if your sale can also cover your closing costs, moving expenses and an even larger down payment—that's even better. Additionally, putting 20% or more down on a home keeps private mortgage insurance (PMI) at bay. That could save you hundreds of dollars each year!

2. You're out of debt with cash in the bank.

If you didn't have all your financial ducks in a row your first time around the home-buying block, you probably learned a few things the hard way. Like the fact that Murphy can smell "broke" from miles away. If it can go wrong, it will! Put those lessons to good use and be a money-smart home buyer the next go-round!

Start by taking a hard look at your finances. If you've paid off all your nonmortgage debt and have three to six months of expenses in your emergency fund, that's a good sign you're financially mature enough to purchase a home again.

3. You can afford to buy a home that fits your lifestyle better.

Another factor to consider is how well your home meets your everyday needs. Perhaps you could use another bedroom (or even two) to accommodate your growing family. Or maybe your kids have all moved out and you're ready to downsize. Empty nesters can really benefit from selling while rates are low. It's freeing to sell a large home, pay cash for a smaller one, and invest the rest for your retirement.

Whether you're sizing up or down, make sure your mortgage fits your budget. Dave recommends keeping your monthly payment to 25% or less of your take-home pay on a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage.

4. You can cash-flow the move.

Don't get so carried away by the excitement of your next home that you forget to account for the cost of leaving your current one. Hiring professional movers? Save up cash to cover the cost of packing up and hauling your stuff away.

You should also invest a little to get your current place ready for prime time. Focus your home improvement dollars on paint, curb appeal, plus kitchen and bath upgrades. A little bit of fresh paint and elbow grease can go a long way into making a great impression—and getting your home sold fast!

Want a bonus tip that doesn't cost a dime? Clear out the clutter. Neat closets and tidy shelves make your home look larger!

5. You're emotionally ready to sell.

If the numbers show you're financially ready to make a move, great! But don't forget—selling your home is an emotional issue, too. Before you plant the "For Sale" sign in the front yard, take a minute to answer just a few more questions:

Are you ready to put in the work to get your house ready for house hunters?
Are you committed to keeping it ready to show for weeks or months?
Are you ready to hear the reasons why potential buyers believe your home is not perfect?
Are you ready for honest—and sometimes hardball—negotiations over what buyers are willing to pay for your home?
Are you really ready to move out and leave the place where your family has made memories?

Don't get us wrong; we're not trying to talk you out of selling your home! We just want you to be completely ready when you do decide to move on to the next stage of your family's life.

A qualified real estate agent will give you a clear picture of what it's like to sell your house, and also help you discern if now is the right time for you, both financially and emotionally.

6. You Understand the Market (a Little Bit)

No one can predict how the housing market will perform. But the National Association of Realtors expects modest growth for existing homes in 2018. Despite the possibility of rising mortgage rates, home sales in 2018 are forecasted to grow around 7% percent, with the median price increasing 5%.

Home Values Are Riding High

With rents up and mortgage rates down, many renters are looking to buy their first home. There's just one problem: They're having trouble finding homes for sale within their price range.

According to Trulia, there are 20% fewer entry-level homes on the market today than there were this time last year. A lot of investors snatched up bargains on entry-level homes when the market was down and turned them into rental properties.

If you took economics in school, you learned all about supply and demand. When supply is down and demand goes up, prices trend upwards as well. That means your home might be worth more than you think. Consider the numbers:

According to the National Realtors Association, U.S. homes are on the market an average of only 34 days, that's four less than last year.
Recent listings of starter homes are 8% less than searches, which means there are more house hunters than homes available for sale.

In other words, the market's hot for just about any home seller—but especially if you've got a starter home to sell.

7. You Have a Real Estate Agent

The reasons already mentioned are essential to consider before selling your home this year. But remember, your real estate market is unique—and so is your financial situation. Consult an experienced real estate agent to find out how the 2018 housing market is shaping up in your area so you can decide if a sale makes financial sense for your family.

Partner with a pro you can trust to provide honest advice so you can do what's best for you and your budget. A good agent puts service before sales—but knows how to get things done when it's time to sell.

Selling your home is a big deal. A real estate agent does more than just schedule showings of your home. They bring experience and confidence to the table when they handle their many job duties, which include:

Giving you advice about updates or repairs that will make your home more attractive
Helping you set a price for your home
Marketing your home so it receives as much exposure to potential buyers as possible
Scheduling showings with potential buyers
Advising you as you negotiate offers
Handling all the required paperwork

We can put you in touch with several agents in your area who have earned Dave's recommendation as a real estate Endorsed Local Provider (ELP).

When it comes to selling homes, our ELPs rise to the top. According to a six-month survey of home buyers and sellers who used an ELP versus those who used other real estate agents, our ELPs are twice as fast at selling homes and twice as likely to sell your home above asking price.

Don't trust an amateur with one of your biggest financial investments. Work with a high-octane agent who knows your market

An experienced real estate agent can help you navigate the search for your next home, too. Be sure to have some backup options ready in case your home sells quickly and you can't find a new place you love right away. You don't want to rush into a home you can't afford or don't really like just because it's available.

Source: Dave Ramsey

Tips for a Successful Open House

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 15:01:41 GMT

Real estate agents estimate that at least 20% of their sales results from an open house. If your property is presentable—that is, spotless from top to bottom—priced correctly, and located in a high-traffic area, you're well on your way to a successful showing. Attention to additional details in preparation and execution will increase the odds of a good offer—perhaps, even on the spot.

Advertise the Open House

Let people know the party's on. Post internet listings everywhere: Write colorful, descriptive ads and place them in web classifieds or open house directories at least a week before the showing. Don't forget personal social media, like your Facebook page or Twitter account. Although advertising online is key, remember old-fashioned methods, too, like an ad in a community newspaper or newsletter, or even postings on a popular store or coffee shop bulletin board.

On the day of the open house (traditionally a Sunday), set up strategically mapped signs around the neighborhood, placing one every few blocks on the way to your house from major streets. Find the busiest intersection closest to your home and put an open house sign at that corner, too. Attach strings of balloons to each open house sign, and include big arrows pointing in the right direction.

Prepare the Premises for the Open House

In addition to cleaning and decluttering your house and making it camera-ready before you even put it on the market, you can make some special preparations for the open house itself:

Remove all vehicles from the driveway. Ask your neighbors to help out by not parking in front of your house.
Let in the light: Open all the drapes, blinds, and window coverings. Turn on every lamp and overhead fixture, too.
Serve refreshments and snacks or, if budget permits, even a catered lunch.
Do not, under any circumstances, use an air freshener: Many people are allergic to synthetic odors.
Play soft music throughout the house.
Create a bulletin board of seasonal house photographs so that buyers can see what the home would look like during another time of the year. This step is especially helpful for showcasing gardens or extensive grounds during the winter.

Put Out the Paperwork

A good open house is not just about ambiance. It gets down to business as well.

Display four-color flyers filled with quality photos and the key points and unique features of your home—a cheat sheet people can take home.
Have brochures and pamphlets available that contain financing options so that buyers can readily determine their monthly mortgage payment. Banks and lenders will often supply you with these.
Set out all documents pertaining to the house: inspection reports, appraisal or comps, evidence of major repairs and warranties, blueprints for additions, or proposals for future improvements.

Interact With Visitors

Be upbeat and cheery as you greet each person who enters the home. Find out what they're looking for and, if possible, show them why your home fits those requirements.

And absolutely, get feedback. Ask buyers what they think of your home and if they would consider buying it. Many folks will demur or be noncommittal, but sometimes they might decide to sit at the kitchen table and write an offer. It happens more often than you would think.

At the very least, you might pick up some useful info about the impression your property is making, as well as quick fixes to address problems.

Furthermore, if you don't receive an offer at or directly after the open house, that doesn't mean your event was unsuccessful. The buyers might be obtaining a pre-approval letter on Monday and sending you an offer a day or two later.

When Not to Hold an Open House

Some properties just aren't suited for an open house. Some common reasons include:

There's too much inventory to pull in buyers driving through the area.
All the homes in the neighborhood look the same.
Inclement weather discourages venturing outside.
The home is a fixer-upper or doesn't show well because it's either too messy, smelly, or cramped.
The property is too far off the beaten path, or perhaps in the center of a complex, that is hard to find (like a condominium).
The real estate agent isn't into it.

While it may seem odd that an agent would want to restrict market exposure for a listing, not to mention the chance to get buyer leads, many agents are categorically opposed to open houses. They may be too busy with other listings, or they may just find such showings a waste of time and effort. You and your agents should be on the same page about marketing your property. If you feel strongly about an open house—and you're unconvinced by your agent's reasons against it—consider switching your representation.

Source: The Balance

30 Tips for Increasing Your Home's Value

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 17:16:57 GMT

Home Improvements: Under $100

Tip 1: Spend an hour with a pro.
Invite a realtor or interior designer over to check out your home. Many realtors will do this as a courtesy, but you will probably have to pay a consultation fee to a designer. Check with several designers in your area; a standard hourly fee is normally less than $100, and in an hour they can give you lots of ideas for needed improvements. Even small suggested improvements, such as paint colors or furniture placement, can go a long way toward improving the look and feel of your home.

Tip 2: Inspect it.
Not every home improvement is cosmetic. Deteriorating roofs, termite infestation or outdated electrical systems — you can't fix it if you don't know it's broken. Hire an inspector to check out the areas of your home that you don't normally see. They may discover hidden problems that could negatively impact your home's value. Small problems (such as a hidden water leak) can become big, expensive problems quickly; the longer you put off repairs, the more expensive those repairs will be.

Tip 3: Paint, paint, paint.
One of the simplest, most cost-effective improvements of all is paint! Freshly painted rooms look clean and updated — and that spells value. When selecting paint colors, keep in mind that neutrals appeal to the greatest number of people, therefore making your home more desirable. On average, a gallon of paint costs around $25, leaving you plenty of money to buy rollers, painter's tape, drop cloths and brushes. So buy a few gallons and get busy!

Tip 4: Find inspiration.
An alternative to hiring a designer is to search for remodeling and decorating inspiration in design-oriented magazines, books, TV shows and websites. Simply tear out or print off the ideas you want to try and start your to-do list. Keep it simple — when remodeling on a tight budget, do-it-yourself projects are best.

Tip 5: Cut energy costs.
The amount of money you spend each month on energy costs may seem like a fixed amount, but many local utility companies provide free energy audits of their customers' homes. They can show you how to maximize the energy efficiency of your home. An energy-efficient home will save you money now, which can be applied to other updates, and is a more valuable and marketable asset in the long run.

Home Improvements: $100-$200

Tip 1: Plant a tree.
If you aren't planning to sell your house today, plan for the future with a landscaping improvement that will mature over time. Plant shade trees — not only will mature trees make your home more desirable but a fully grown, properly placed tree can cut your cooling costs by as much as 40 percent. Mature landscaping is also good for the environment, providing a necessary habitat for wildlife while adding valuable curb appeal to your home.

Tip 2: Low-maintenance landscaping saves you money now, adds value when you sell.
No question that shrubs and colorful plants will add curb appeal to any home, but when shopping at your local garden center, make sure that you "think green." Purchase plants that are native to your region or plants that are drought-tolerant; these require less water and maintenance, which means more savings to you and more green in your wallet.

Tip 3: Add a money-saving luxury.
Speaking of water, here's another way to tap into extra savings; install a water filtration system in your kitchen. Not only do these systems purify your water, they will also lower your grocery bills — no more bottled water. A water filtration system is an inexpensive addition, but it's the sort of small luxury that homebuyers love.

Tip 4: Improve the air quality inside your home.
Air quality isn't just about the conditions outdoors. If you have older carpets in your home, they might be hiding contaminants and allergens. The first step to determine if these need replacing is to hire a professional company to test your indoor air quality. If the results prove that your carpets should be replaced, choose environmentally friendly natural products like tile or laminate floors. Hard-surface floors are much easier to keep clean, don't hold odors, give your home an updated look and, in general, are more appealing to buyers.

Tip 5: Save the popcorn for the movies.

Finally, what's on your ceiling? Few structural elements date a house more than popcorn ceilings. So dedicate a weekend to ditching the dated look and adding dollar signs to the value of your home. This is a project you can tackle yourself. First, visit your local hardware store for a solution to soften the texture, then simply scrape the popcorn away. Removing a popcorn ceiling may not seem like a big change but one of the keys for adding value to your home is to repair, replace or remove anything that could turn buyers away.

Home Improvements: $200-$400

Tip 1: A messy lawn creates a bad first impression.
Overgrown or patchy lawns and outsized bushes will cause your home to stand out — in a bad way. The good news is that taming your jungle is an easy fix. For a few hundred dollars, hire a lawn service company to trim your lawn and shape your hedges. Your curb appeal will go from messy to maintained without blowing your budget.

Tip 2: Cleanliness counts.
The old adage that you only get one shot at a first impression is true. So, make the interior of you home shine from the moment someone walks through the door. For less than $400, hire a cleaning service for a thorough top-to-bottom scrubbing. Even if you clean your home regularly, there are nooks and crannies that you may miss or overlook. Let a cleaning service do the dirty work to really make your home sparkle.

Tip 3: Visually increase your home's square footage.
The size of your home dramatically affects the value, but square footage isn't the only space that counts. Visual space or how large a home feels also counts. The key is to make each room in your house feel larger. Replace heavy closed draperies with vertical blinds or shutters to let light in — a sunny room feels larger and more open. Also, try adding a single large mirror to a room to visually double the space. Finally, clear the clutter. The more clutter, furniture and plain old stuff you have in a room, the more cramped it will feel. For less than $400, add an attractive shelving unit to an underused space and store your clutter out of sight.

Tip 4: Small bathroom updates equal a big return.
Bathroom updates are always a smart move. Even if you can't afford a full remodel, small changes such as replacing dated wallpaper with a faux or textured finish and replacing old lighting will update the room without denting your wallet.

Tip 5: Add new energy-efficient fixtures.
A functional, decorative ceiling fan is a beautiful thing. It provides necessary light and, in warm months, creates a soft breeze reducing the need for expensive air conditioning. But, an outdated, wobbly, loud or broken ceiling fan is a useless eyesore. Replace old fixtures with new ones to make your home more enjoyable for you now and to increase the bottom line should you decide to sell.

Home Improvements: $400-$750

Tip 1: Even small changes in the bathroom equal a big return.
A great room to update for less than $750 is the bathroom. The two rooms that benefit most from even small renovations are the kitchen and bathroom. One cost-effective change — like replacing an outdated vanity, old plumbing and lighting fixtures or adding a new tile floor — will guarantee a lot of bang for your buck and give your bath an updated, modern look.

Tip 2: Any kitchen update equals added value.
The same rule applies in the kitchen. You don't have to start from scratch to create a winning recipe. For maximizing your home's value, kitchen updates are key. Start by swapping out just one item, such as a stained sink or ancient microwave for shiny new stainless models. Even small kitchen updates will add big value to your home.

Tip 3: Replace any worn carpets or area rugs.
Take a look at your home's soft flooring. Are your carpets and area rugs stained or worn? Nothing turns buyers off more than the thought that they will immediately need to replace all of the flooring in a home. Ideally, you may want to replace them all, but if a limited budget puts a snag in that plan, start by replacing the carpet in the room that shows the most wear and tear and replace the others as your finances allow.

Tip 4: Keep up with regular maintenance and repairs.
Walk around your home and make a list of all the little things that are broken or in need of repair. Individually, small repairs might not seem important, but if every room has just one thing wrong, those small things will add up to create the impression that your home has been neglected. If you don't feel comfortable tackling the repairs yourself, hire a handyman for a day and watch your "to do" list disappear. Staying on top of maintenance today eliminates problems down the road should you decide to sell.

Tip 5: Get help with getting organized.
Hire a professional organizer for a day. They will show you how to organize various rooms in your home and teach you tricks for keeping it organized. How does this increase your home's value? Simple — a clutter-free home appears cleaner and larger, which is more attractive to homebuyers and therefore more valuable.

Home Improvements: $750-$1,000

Tip 1: Go tankless.
Upgrade your standard water heater for a tankless model. Most old-fashioned water heaters keep 50 or so gallons of water hot, seven days a week, 24 hours a day, whether you use the water or not. Tankless water heaters heat only the water you need as you need it. Not only will they save you money now, but they're an eco-friendly and cost-effective update that today's homebuyers are looking for.

Tip 2: Upgrade your appliances.
Eighty-six the old-school appliances for sleek new energy-efficient ones. An appliance with an Energy Star label has been certified by the government to use 10-50 percent less energy and water than conventional appliances. Matching stainless appliances will not only look great now, but will make your home shine brighter than the competition should you decide to sell.

Tip 3: Go for the green.
Everyone loves a yard with thick, green grass. For less than $1000, in a weekend's time, you can replace your existing patchy mix of weeds and grass with fresh new sod. You'll be amazed at the difference this one change will make in your home's curb appeal and value.

Home Improvements: $1,000-$1,500

Tip 1: Spruce up your ceilings.
One of a room's most neglected spaces, the ceiling, makes up one-sixth of a room's total area. Updating your home's ceilings will net a lot of bang for the buck while adding architectural interest. First, if you still have popcorn ceilings, hire a contractor to scrape them smooth. To add a sophisticated custom look to a smooth ceiling, install crown molding or box beams for a coffered look. Ceiling millwork, an attractive feature prevalent in older homes, is rarely found in newer construction. Adding small touches like these will help your home stand out from the pack.

Tip 2: Update your home's entrance.
The look of your front door and entrance play heavily into the overall curb appeal of your home. As visitors enter, the front door serves as the transition into your home and is part of their first impression. Entry doors are architectural components that should complement your home's overall design, not detract from it. If your existing front door isn't up to par, head down to your local home improvement store for a more energy-efficient and attractive replacement. Whether you choose a solid wood door or one with decorative stained or cut glass panels, a welcoming entrance will definitely increase your home's bottom line.

Tip 3: Consult a design pro.
If you're unsure of which design style or paint color to use, hire a designer. They'll use discriminating taste and a trained eye to help with making the big decisions. Also, remodeling your home with a cohesive plan in mind makes all of your choices easier and ensures a pulled-together finished look. So, when you get the right mix of time or money, you'll know exactly which project to take on next.

Home Improvements: $1,500-$2,000

Tip 1: Save on air conditioning costs.
Consider installing a whole-house fan. They're a great alternative to air conditioning because they use only one-tenth the electricity of air conditioners, saving you money. Whole-house fans are considered a "green" home improvement, which is a popular selling feature with today's homebuyers. As the cost of electricity continues to skyrocket, green energy alternatives will only gain in popularity.

Tip 2: Brighten up.
A "bright" way to increase the value of your home is to lighten up. Adequate lighting in a home makes a big difference. Not only does a bright, well-lit room feel more cheerful but it also makes spaces feel larger and cleaner. A well-lit room also shows that you have nothing to hide, so should you decide to sell, prospective buyers will feel at ease when touring your home. Hire an electrician to add recessed lights to a dim kitchen or family room or to brighten up a formal dining or living room with elegant sconces. You'll enjoy the bright effect now and your home will feel warmer and more welcoming to homebuyers.

Tip 3: Add the right landscaping and watch your home's value grow.
For less than $2,000, hire a landscape designer to create a plan that will make your home's exterior really shine. For maximum impact, plant mature trees or fast growing varieties; these can be pricy but they will instantly make your home feel more established. As your landscaping grows, so will your home's curb appeal and value.

Home Improvements: $2,000-$3,000

Tip 1: Kitchen or bath remodels are always a safe bet.
Improving your home is a solid investment at any level — but if you have up to three thousand dollars to spend, a great place to start is by upgrading either the kitchen or bath. Either room is a good choice and you don't have to do a complete floor-to-ceiling remodel to reap financial benefits. In fact, modest kitchen or bath updates can be your best bet for a big return, netting, on average, an 80-85 percent return.

Tip 2: Protect your investment.
For most people, their home is their single largest investment, so treat it that way. Hire a financial planner to work out a strategy for protecting your investment by analyzing all of the financing options that are available. A financial whiz can tell you if you should refinance to lower your monthly payments or pull out some equity to pay for value-adding improvements.

Tip 3: Bring the outdoors in.
Consider turning two standard windows into an opening for beautiful French or sliding glass doors. Full-view glass doors really brighten up the space and a light and airy room is always more attractive. Also, with a view of the outdoors, the room will feel much larger. Another bonus is that modern doors are energy-efficient, cutting down on heating and cooling costs. That means more cash in your pocket now and a financial bonus should you decide to sell.

Home Improvements: $3,000-$5,000

Tip 1: Add closet or garage storage.
Realtors agree that top on most homeownes' list of wants is ample storage space. For less than $5,000, consider upgrading your home's storage by adding custom shelving systems to a closet or garage. The first step to really getting organized is de-cluttering. Start by sorting your belongings, then stash them away in your new organized closet or garage to really maximize your home's value.

Tip 2: Green flooring choices equal more green in your wallet.
Worn, tired carpet will not only turn off homebuyers, but it can make you feel worn and tired too. Replace it with the hottest trend in flooring: renewable, environmentally friendly bamboo. Solid-surface floors are easy to keep clean and give your home an upscale look and feel. Green flooring choices, like bamboo, minimally impact the environment and are a big selling point to today's environmentally conscious homebuyers.

Tip 3: Resurface concrete.
Replacing the cracked concrete surfaces around your home can cost a small fortune. But for a fraction of that cost, concrete can be resurfaced in a multitude of colors and finishes. Consider adding a cobblestone finish to your driveway, a brick look to an old walkway or a slate finish around the pool or patio. Whichever texture you choose, it will be a huge improvement over standard concrete and potential homebuyers will really take notice.

Home Improvements: $5,000 and up

Tip 1: Refresh the exterior paint.
The condition of your home's exterior is key to the overall curb appeal, so refresh that facade with a coat of paint. Fresh exterior paint will not only preserve and protect your home's exterior siding — the right paint color can make a dull home dazzling. By the same token, a house painted with an overly bright or overly bland color will make a house less appealing and hurt the value, so choose your colors wisely. Should you decide to put your house on the market and the exterior paint looks bad, a buyer will assume that the interior of the home has been neglected too and drive right past.

Tip 2: Go solar to save some green.
Save energy bill greenbacks by going green with a solar water heater. The installed price can cost up to $5,000, but these systems can slash your hot water bills by as much as 80 percent and attract energy-conscious homebuyers should you decide to sell. Install a solar water heater where there's unobstructed southern exposure and you'll have savings made in the shade.

Tip 3: Kitchen remodels are king.
Hands down, one of the biggest returns on investment comes from a kitchen remodel. Most experts agree that if you plan on updating only one room in your home, it should be the kitchen. Large, open kitchens have become the social hub of the modern home. High-end touches like granite countertops, richly stained custom cabinets and energy-efficient stainless appliances are the gold standard in modern kitchens. Experts agree that kitchen remodels return an average of 80 to 85 percent of every dollar spent. You can expect an even higher return if you are remodeling a really outdated kitchen.

Source: DIY Network

Essential Housewares & Appliances

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 18:56:10 GMT

Whether you're setting up a home for the first time or you're replacing lost items, this checklist of house essentials can help ensure you're covered for the basics. It can also come in handy when you need ideas for wedding, anniversary, and shower gifts.

Major Appliances

Some major appliances may already be in place in your home, especially if you're renting. New homes usually have no appliances other than heating/cooling equipment and a hot water heater.

Refrigerator with freezer
Range or cooktop and oven
Microwave oven
Freezer, chest or upright (optional)
Dishwasher (optional)
Clothes washer and dryer

Countertop Appliances & Accessories

Most countertop appliances have "manual," or non-electric counterparts. For example, you can opt for a stovetop coffee maker instead of a standard plug-in drip coffee machine.

Toaster or toaster oven
Mixer (handheld or stand)
Blender (standard or stick)
Coffeemaker
Electric kettle

Cooking Implements

Active home cooks tend to acquire specific and specialty cooking tools over time, based on the type of cooking they do. But a basic set of implements will suffice for most recipes and dishes.

6-, 8-, and 12-inch frying pans
1-, 2-, and 4-quart saucepans with lids
Dutch oven or large pot with lid
Stockpot (optional)
Steamer pot or steamer basket
Casserole dish
Roasting Pan

Bakeware

Baking tends to be more precise than everyday cooking, so it helps to have the most standard tools, such as a classic 9-inch pie pan, to follow baking recipes without having to make modifications.

Heavy baking sheets
Cookie sheets
9-inch pie pan
Rectangular bakers or baking dishes
Rolling pin
Metal cooling racks
Ramekins or custard cups

Kitchen Utensils & Tools

A well-equipped kitchen feels more like a home kitchen and less like a rental property. Think about the items you most often reach for as well as some cook's favorites that you may not have tried, like a spider strainer.

Large- and medium-size mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Canister set (for storing grains, flour, and other dry staples)
Kitchen tool holder
Spice rack or holder
Colander or set of strainers
Silicone spatulas
Metal spatula or flipper
Wooden spoons
Spider skimmer
Can opener
Wisk
Kitchen scissors
Cheese and vegetable grater
Plastic and/or metal serving and cooking utensils, such as large slotted and regular spoons, soup ladle, potato masher, large meat fork, and stirring paddles
Knife set, including paring, chef, and serrated knives
Steak knives
Cutting boards
Vegetable cleaning brush
Potholders, hot pads, and oven mitts
Dishcloths and tea towels
Trivets

Tableware & Serving

Dishes and silverware go quickly whether you're cooking a family meal or hosting a dinner party. It's best to have extra settings for the most common items.

Flatware settings (dinner fork, salad fork, teaspoon, soup spoon, knife) for eight to 12 people
Everyday dish setting (dinner plate, salad plate, soup bowl) for six, or as needed
Fruit or dessert dishes
Glassware assortment, including 4-, 6-, and 8-ounce glasses
Small bowls, such as cereal bowls, if not included in dish set
Coffee mugs and teacups
Salt and pepper set
Cream and sugar bowl
Napkin holder
Set of serving bowls
Teapot (if you don't have an electric kettle)
Serving platter

Floor Care & Cleaning Items

There are an endless array cleaning supplies you can buy, but a basic collection will get you through most everyday chores. Even professional house cleaners rely on relatively few supplies.

Vacuum cleaner
Broom and dustpan
Floor mop, scrub pail, scrub brush, and cleaning rags
Long bottlebrush
Scouring or pot cleaning pads, or brushes
Dust Rag
Microfiber cleaning cloths (optional)

Linens & Towels

As with dishes, having more sets of towels and bed linens means you won't have to wash items in a hurry because you've run out. It's also nice to have plenty of good linens for house guests.

Bath towels
Hand towels
Washcloths
Bed sheets
Blankets and bed covers
Pillows and pillow covers (include extra for guests)
Tablecloths
Cloth napkins
Placemats

Source: The Spruce

Fireplace Decor for a Warm and Happy Holiday

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 05:09:39 GMT

Lovely Lanterns

Fireplace decor reaches beyond the mantel. Decorating the space around the flames is a great way to add dimension to your display. If you're looking for a festive alternative to your flames, try putting these pretty picks inside for a unique look.

Richly Red

Why settle for a traditional green garland? Make your mantel pop with this rich red accent.

A New Necessity

Just like a tablescape, a mantel display needs a focal point. This trendy hand-lettered print outlined by matte paper in a rustic frame will be a staple year after year.

A Holiday Gathering

Talk about a good-looking holiday gathering! This berry and pinecone arrangement pulls together your holiday decorations. We imagine placing one at either end of the mantel. Where will you place yours?

The Search Is Over

The hunt for the perfect stockings may seem never-ending, that's why we did the searching for you. We love this modern-meets-traditional find of soft velvet and cozy flannel.

A Year-Round Affair

Finally, holiday decor that can last all year! This decorative mirror bursts with joy for the festive season.

A Hint of Tin

A well-put-together display is all about the tiny details. This glowing accent will illuminate your mantel with a cheery Christmas tree cutout.

A Holiday Staple

Bows are everywhere during the holiday season, so why not spread them around your home! From presents to tree tops and more, this pretty pair is sure to bring the holiday spirit wherever they go.

We Have a Winner

You can't call it a holiday display without a wreath. We love this one's subdued green hues with a scattering of red berries for a vintage-inspired finish.

Source:Better Homes and Gardens

Moving Checklist and Planner

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 05:05:48 GMT

Two Months Before

Sort and purge.Go through every room of your house and decide what you’d like to keep and what you can get rid of. Think about whether any items will require special packing or extra insurance coverage.
Research.Start investigating moving company options. Do not rely on a quote over the phone; request an on-site estimate. Get an estimate in writing from each company, and make sure it has a USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number on it.
Create a moving binder.Use this binder to keep track of everything—all your estimates, your receipts, and an inventory of all the items you’re moving.
Organize school records.Go to your children’s school and arrange for their records to be transferred to their new school district.

Six Weeks Before

Order supplies.Order boxes and other supplies such as tape, Bubble Wrap, and permanent markers. Don’t forget to order specialty containers, such as dish barrels or wardrobe boxes.
Use it or lose it.Start using up things that you don’t want to move, like frozen or perishable foods and cleaning supplies.
Take measurements.Check room dimensions at your new home, if possible, and make sure larger pieces of furniture will fit through the door.

One Month Before

Choose your mover and confirm the arrangements.Select a company and get written confirmation of your moving date, costs, and other details.
Begin packing.Start packing the things that you use most infrequently, such as the waffle iron and croquet set. While packing, note items of special value that might require additional insurance from your moving company. Make sure to declare, in writing, any items valued over $100 per pound, such as a computer.
Label.Clearly label and number each box with its contents and the room it’s destined for. This will help you to keep an inventory of your belongings. Pack and label “essentials” boxes of items you’ll need right away.
Separate valuables.Add items such as jewelry and important files to a safe box that you’ll personally transport to your new home. Make sure to put the mover’s estimate in this box. You’ll need it for reference on moving day.
Do a change of address.Go to your local post office and fill out a change-of-address form, or do it online at usps.gov. But in case there are stragglers, it’s always wise to ask a close neighbor to look out for mail after you’ve moved. Check in with him or her two weeks after the move, and again two weeks after that.
Notify important parties.Alert the following of your move: banks, brokerage firms, your employer’s human resources department, magazine and newspapers you subscribe to, and credit card, insurance, and utility companies.
Forward medical records.Arrange for medical records to be sent to any new health-care providers or obtain copies of them yourself. Ask for referrals.

Two Weeks Before

Arrange to be off from work on moving day.Notify your office that you plan to supervise the move and therefore need the day off.
Tune up.Take your car to a garage, and ask the mechanic to consider what services might be needed if you’re moving to a new climate.
Clean out your safe-deposit box.If you’ll be changing banks, remove the contents of your safe-deposit box and put them in the safe box that you’ll take with you on moving day.
Contact the moving company.Reconfirm the arrangements.

One Week Before

Refill prescriptions.Stock up on prescriptions you’ll need during the next couple of weeks.
Pack your suitcases.Aim to finish your general packing a few days before your moving date. Then pack suitcases for everyone in the family with enough clothes to wear for a few days.

A Few Days Before

Defrost the freezer.If your refrigerator is moving with you, make sure to empty, clean, and defrost it at least 24 hours before moving day.
Double-check the details.Reconfirm the moving company’s arrival time and other specifics and make sure you have prepared exact, written directions to your new home for the staff. Include contact information, such as your cell phone number.
Plan for the payment.If you haven’t already arranged to pay your mover with a credit card, get a money order, cashier’s check, or cash for payment and tip. If the staff has done a good job, 10 to 15 percent of the total fee is a good tip. If your move was especially difficult, you might tip each mover up to $100. Don’t forget that refreshments are always appreciated.

Moving Day

Verify.Make sure that the moving truck that shows up is from the company you hired: The USDOT number painted on its side should match the number on the estimate you were given. Scams are not unheard-of.
Take inventory.Before the movers leave, sign the bill of lading/inventory list and keep a copy.

Source: Real Simple

How to keep your for-sale house clean

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 20:33:10 GMT

No matter how long your house is on the market before being sold, it can be tremendously difficult to keep a home clean and orderly during the showing period, however short.

Aside from correct pricing, the most important steps you can take involve decluttering and making sure your house is kept clean during the showing period, says Eric Tyson, a personal finance expert and coauthor of ''House Selling For Dummies.''

Here are a few pointers for sellers:

Do as much preliminary pre packing as possible.

Vicki Norris, a professional organizer and former real estate agent, knows how hard it can be to keep a house in prime showing shape. It's especially difficult when people are selling against their will — for instance, in the wake of a job loss.

''Sometimes life takes people off track and they get unusually disorganized,'' says Norris, who runs her own consulting firm, Restoring Order.

To limit upkeep demands during the showing period, Norris recommends that sellers clear their clutter in advance of putting their place on the market. Throw away or give away any items you don't intend to keep, and place the remainder in neatly stacked boxes in your garage or other storage area.

''You don't have to remove everything, but reduce the quantity. For example, if you can winnow down an overpacked bookshelf from 200 to 30 books, that would be great,'' Norris says.

Seek to keep your house in good condition every day.

Most people who have their homes up for sale for a lengthy period can't count on hired help to do the daily work necessary to keep their place in tip-top showing condition. Still, they must always be ready for visitors.

Ashley Richardson, a real estate agent affiliated with the Council of Residential Specialists, advises clients to set aside 15 minutes each morning before work to straighten the home.

''At the very minimum, every day you'll need to sweep the kitchen, put the breakfast dishes in the dishwasher and hang up any clothes lying around,'' she says.

Ponder the use of a cleaning service.

Are you sloppier than the average homeowner? If so, it might be wise to pay for what real estate agents call a ''super-duper cleaning.''

''If you start with a professional cleaning at the beginning, you'll have an easier time keeping your house tidy all the way through to your sale,'' says Sid Davis, a real estate broker and author of ''A Survival Guide to Selling a Home.''

Though it's likely to cost over $100, he says a single in-depth cleaning could hold you for more than a month before another in-depth cleaning job would be necessary.

Unfortunately, hiring a cleaning crew won't spare you the need for routine upkeep. ''This will be no substitute for keeping your dishes washed and your bathroom toiletries put away. But it's still a big step going forward,'' Davis says.

Try to get everyone in your household to cooperate.

After a home has sat unsold for more than a month, those who live there can easily lose focus and slip back into their bad habits.

"The problem is that keeping your house in show condition is not a relaxed way of living, so people get tired of it,'' Davis says.

According to Richardson, it can be especially tough to ensure that children's rooms are kept orderly and that their toys are put away.

''Often, the kids are protesting the move. So the parents may need to clean their rooms for them. Alternatively, to get the kids to do it themselves, you might need to bribe them with pizza or a dinner out,'' she says.

Realize that the ordeal is temporary.

Donna Goings, a veteran real estate agent, says homeowners who earnestly want to sell should ''keep their houses looking good enough to appear in a magazine.'' But she cautions that even picture-perfect properties that are fairly priced can languish unsold for a lengthy period through no fault of their owners.

''Sometimes, there's no rhyme or reason why a particular house won't sell for a long time. Even if you make the house beautiful and set the price right, it could stay on the market for months,'' Goings says.

Richardson advises her clients to avoid dwelling on critiques of their property.

''Buyers are more candid than they were in the past, and sometimes can be quite blunt in their feedback after a showing,'' Richardson says.

To limit the amount of unfiltered and discouraging negativity that can flow to you about your home, she suggests you tell your listing agent to filter out all pointlessly critical comments about your place.

Source: Chicago Tribune

6 Reasons Why Selling a House in the Winter May Be the Best Decision Ever

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 03:02:00 GMT

Spring is generally the most popular time of year to sell a house, with hordes of buyers looking to move into a new place before the school year begins. But if you decide to sell your home during the winter, experts say you could reap a reward in cold, hard cash.

“I have personally had my best months in real estate during the holiday season, so the idea that the markets are very tough to sell in the winter might be a myth,” says Emil Hartoonian, managing partner of The Agency in Beverly Hills, CA.

He's not the only one who believes selling in the winter can make you a real estate winner. Read on for the top reasons why you should consider unloading when the temperatures drop.

1. Low inventory = less competition

Since spring is the most popular home-selling season, the housing market is ultracrowded with options at that time of year. And if you paid attention during Econ 101, you understand the law of supply and demand.

“Most sellers still think they need to sell in the spring, but that means there is more competition for buyers' attention,” says Matt Van Winkle, founder of Re/Max Northwest in Seattle.

But in the winter, there are fewer homes for sale. That competition over low inventory can make winter an ideal time to sell your home.

“In the Atlanta market, January is one of the strongest months for homes to go under contract,” says Ally May of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's.

2. You get to show your home’s winter-readiness

Selling in the winter also gives you the opportunity to show that a home is designed to handle the harsh elements.

“Sellers in places like Lake Tahoe can show off features like a south-facing driveway to speed up snow melting, how snow will fall off of a roof, a short driveway that will minimize shoveling or plowing, heat tape on the north side of the roof to avoid snow accumulation, and how recently the roof and furnace have been replaced," says Sandy Soli, regional manager at Engel & Völkers in Lake Tahoe, NV.

Plus, during winter months, homes with features like fireplaces and hot tubs are certainly more appealing.

3. New parents may be looking to upgrade

The baby boom in September may lead to more buyers later in the year. According to data from the Center for Health Statistics and the Social Security Administration, there are more birthdays in the month of September than any other time of the year. Therefore, there's likely to be a crop of growing families looking to buy a larger house.

"Once baby is home and settled, these parents may want to start the year in a new, and more spacious, family home,” according to Melissa Temple, real estate adviser and partner at Engel & Völkers in Aspen, CO.

4. Winter brings out the serious buyers

News flash: Not everyone looking at houses intends to make a purchase. Some people are contemplating moving and may just want to see what's on the market. Since more homes tend to go on the market in spring and fall, this is also when window shoppers are likely to be out looking.

However, these looky-loos tend to be scarce during winter months, according to Jennifer Baldinger, licensed associate real estate broker at Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty in Scarsdale, NY.

"When I have buyers looking for homes in January and February, they’re real buyers looking to make a purchase—especially if it’s a great house. They don't want to take the chance of waiting until spring and losing out on the home,” Baldinger says.

“There may be less people at these open houses, but I would rather have 10 real buyers come through than 20 people who are just curious,” she says.

5. Year-end financial bonuses and payouts

As a seller, year-end performance reviews could mean that more people have money to spend on a home.

“End-of-year financial bonuses or workers retiring with large payouts could mean opportunities for these buyers to upgrade their living situations or for first-time buyers to enter the housing market,” according to Temple.

6. Corporate relocation

You could also encounter buyers who are relocating for a job.

“One of the biggest months for corporate relocation is January/February, so those buyers, who need to move quickly, are out in full force looking for new homes,” Baldinger says.

Relocators typically have a limited amount of time to uproot their families and, as a result, don't have the luxury of spending a lot of time looking at properties. The kids need to get settled into school, and dealing with selling their old home can add another level of urgency and stress. So it's likely that once they find a home that meets their requirements, these buyers will be ready to sign on the dotted line.

Source: Realtor.com

13 Ways to Keep Up Your Curb Appeal in Winter

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 13:20:21 GMT

Just because the snow is falling and the days are dark and gray, that doesn’t mean you can’t dress up your home a bit. It doesn’t matter if you’re selling your home or you just want your home to look great for the holidays, here are 13 ways to spruce up the outside of your home this winter.

Add a Small Tree

This holiday season, buy an extra small Christmas tree (or two!) to place near the front door. You can wrap the bottom of the tree with some burlap or place it in a basket. If you have and electrical outlet nearby, add a string of lights.

Create a Warm Glow

Exterior lighting not only makes your home safer, it also makes your home look cozy and inviting. Take a walk around the outside of your home to make sure all lights are working properly and check for any bulbs that need to be replaced. Also, check to make sure bulbs are clear of ice and snow.

Clear the Snow

Nothing makes a home look unkempt in the winter faster than snow that hasn’t been cleared. Take the time to shovel the front walkway and shovel or use the snowblower on the driveway to keep paths clear and safe.

Add Some Plants

Look for some cold-weather plants to add to your front entryway. Think evergreens or plants with colorful berries to add some interest to an otherwise drab space.

Clear Clutter

Make sure all toys, shovels and lawn equipment are put away after use. Leaving items like this laying around is a quick way to give your yard a sloppy look.

Try a Lantern

Hang a lantern on a post near your entryway or set one or two on the steps for a charming, welcoming look. Lanterns can be either hard-wired or battery-operated.

Add Some Color and Shine

Winter can be dark and gloomy so add some shine to up your curb appeal. Pick out some shiny, colorful garden ornaments to add around the front of your home.

Use String Lights

String lights aren’t just for the holidays. Try using them in a clear glass bowl or lantern on your porch for a soft glow or suspend them from a tree for an enchanting look.

Hang a Wreath

Wreaths don’t have to be super-fancy or really large. Think beyond evergreen and choose a wreath with understated elegance.

Attract the Birds

Add a colorful bird feeder in your front yard. A well-placed feeder adds color and life to an otherwise gray landscape.

Get Painting

Break from the expected and go for a bold color on your front door. The pop of color may be just what your home needs during the depths of winter.

Update Your Mailbox

If your mailbox is boring black, brown or white, give it a winter makeover. Try some brightly colored paint to help boost your curb appeal. Just bring it inside to warm up since paint has a hard time adhering to cold surfaces.

Replace House Numbers

Up your home’s curb appeal with some striking new house numbers. Go for a design that makes a statement. Or, find a style that speaks to your home’s character. Just make sure they can easily be spotted from the street.

Source: Family Handyman

Staging the Bathroom Without Breaking the Bank

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 13:15:23 GMT

Many home buyers feel slightly uncomfortable looking at bathrooms while touring homes. Buyers will spend more time in the kitchen, living room and bedrooms than they will in a bathroom. Perhaps they don't want to think about what usually goes on in the bathroom. Bathrooms are not generally a place where strangers share communal experiences.

So, they poke their heads in the door - often without stepping foot in the room, like if they don't actually step into the bathroom, they're not really in the bathroom - glance left to right, and leave. That takes all of three seconds. So, that's what you've got to impress a buyer - three seconds. Sellers can spend hours staging a bathroom for that three-second reaction.

Getting the Bathroom Ready for Staging

Get out the bleach and start scrubbing. If you prefer not to use bleach, find an organic substitute, but bleach works best. Your goal is to clean the bathroom from top to bottom. It should sparkle and radiate cleanliness.

Get rid of mold. Almost every bathroom contains some form of mold, especially in corners.
Remove the covers from light fixtures and exhaust fan, wash, dry and replace.
If your light fixtures are rated for 100-watt, replace the bulbs with 100-watt.
Remove prescriptions from the medicine cabinet, and any other personal items you don't want a buyer to find and store this stuff in a safe place.
Throw out worn, frayed, or outdated rugs and towels.
If wallpaper is peeling, steam it off the walls and paint the walls with a light-colored semi-gloss.
Use Lime-A-Way or a similar product to remove soap grime and calcium residue from shower doors.
Fix leaky or dripping faucets.
If cabinet hardware is weathered, replace knobs and pulls.

Shop for Bathroom Staging Supplies

When staging your bathroom, the effect you're going for is to create a spa-like experience. Spa accessories are related to water and nature. Think Asian influence and choose items in tranquil, soft colors. Don't be afraid to incorporate contrasting textures by combining smooth surfaces with rough material such as polished pebbles nestled at the base of an aloe vera plant.

You don't have to spend a fortune to create the illusion of a spa. Check out discount stores such as Target, Wal-Mart, Costco or Tuesday Morning for inexpensive supplies. Here are types of spa accessories for you to pick and choose among:

Towels, rugs, washcloths
Bamboo or wooden trays
Candles in various sizes
Green plants
Small water fountains
Scented soaps
Glass containers filled with cotton balls or Q-tips
Ribbon and rough twine
Twigs and berries
Seashells
Fluffy white robe
Padded satin hanger
Creams, lotions, shampoos or bath salts with unusual or antique packaging
Sea sponges and bath brushes

Staging the Bathroom

Now that you've bought all this stuff, what do you do with it? You don't want to clutter the vanity or make the room feel overcrowded. Less is better. Think simplicity.

Start by layering a few towels on the rack by artfully folding in thirds a larger towel for the bottom and place a smaller towel on top. Tie the center loosely with ribbon or twine. You can also glue twigs and berries to the ribbon.
Create displays by grouping items together in odd numbers such as 1, 3 or 5. Vary the height of candles and jars.
Slip a white robe on a padded hanger and hang it on the door or from the shower door.
Put a stack of folded towels on a bamboo tray and arrange a few unwrapped bars of scented soap next to the towels.
Consider a placing a new rug next to the bathtub or shower.
Use greenery sparingly to add life and color.
Arrange bath products, drop a few flower petals around them. Be creative.
If you have space and so desire, fire up the water fountain.

Source: The Balance

What You Need To Do To Your Home Before Winter Starts

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 23:22:04 GMT

Sadly for all homeowners, prepping your house for the winter is just one of those things you can't skip out on. Though I wish I meant hanging holiday lights everywhere, decorating your mantel, and watching last year's Hallmark Christmas movies on repeat until the new ones come out, there's much more to it.

Unfortunately, this is not the fun list you'll want to check twice, but you simply must—despite how tedious the tasks may be. Between the money saved on electricity and future repairs, your wallet will thank you later. Here's exactly what you need to do in order to get ready for the cold weather ahead:

Weatherproof your doors and windows.

It's important to get ahead of the winter weather and make sure your home is ready to handle the cold to come. Check your doors and windows closely for gaps and areas that may cause a draft. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up, or consider replacing the windows or doors if the problem is severe enough.

Reverse your fans.

Stephen Fanuka, host of Million Dollar Contractor, says turning your fans clockwise is a secret to saving money on heat in the winter since it will stop the warm air from rising, AKA keep it down where you want it to be. But how do you do this? Most ceiling fans have a switch that you can simply flip to reverse it—if the switch is not easily accessible on the outside of the fan, it may be somewhere inside.

Check for cracks in your water tank.

Another Fanuka tip is to make sure your hot water tank is crack-free. Chances are if you haven't installed one in 10-15 years, you'll need to replace it.

Clean your dryer hose.

Clogged dryer hoses pose huge fire hazards, in fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. firefighters respond to approximately 14,630 house fires annually that were caused by dryers. Consumer Reports shares that you can prevent these house fires by cleaning your lint filter, emptying or replacing your dryer hose, and regularly checking the vent and exhaust.

Get an annual fireplace inspection and chimney sweep.

Similar to dryer hoses, clogged chimneys lead to house fires, but they can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Having a yearly inspection and chimney sweep may cost you money, but it could also save your life—so, make it happen. Additionally, make sure the flue on your chimney is fully functional so when the fireplace is not in use, you don't experience drafts.

Prevent pipes from freezing.

Two of Stephen's tips for the prevention of frozen pipes this winter include: (1) keep the heat on always and (2) let your faucets drip to keep the water flowing and make it harder for the water to freeze.

Bring the outdoors inside.

In case you didn't already do this before fall came around, be sure to move all outdoor furniture and appliances (grills, lawn mowers, et cetera) into your garage or shed as well as any planters you'd like to save through the season. Also, don't forget to turn off all sprinkle systems and unplug garden hoses.

Clean out your gutters.

Yes, this is a post-autumn activity as well, unfortunately, since it's best to avoid having any unnecessary weight from frozen leaves—in case the icicles weren't heavy enough as is. Emptying the leaves, dirt, and debris will decrease the risk of damage to your gutters.

Keep the heat on.

Keep the heat on always, Stephen urges. Even when you go away. By doing so you can keep your pipes warm and prevent them from freezing, while also saving money on having your heating system work extra hard when you return to bring the house back up to room temperature. Lowe's suggests updating your thermostat (if you haven't already) to a programmable version so you can set the house for one temp when you're home, and another for when you're away.

The Accommodation Dilemma for Canadian Snowbirds!

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 23:19:37 GMT

There are many views on the pros and cons of buying vs. renting your winter vacation home, and people are persuaded one way or the other for a myriad of reasons.

When it comes to buying, some people plunge right in and buy the first time they visit a destination on holiday. Others take a more cautious approach, renting for a few years so they can get to know a particular destination – and maybe even check out a few other destinations – eventually buying something when they decide on a place they want to return to year after year. Still others invest in a vacation home while they are in their 50s and still working, rent it out in the short term and look forward to using it for their own winters once they retire.

When deciding whether to buy or rent, make sure you consider all of the following benefits and drawbacks to help you make the best decision based on your needs and situation.

Renting a winter vacation home

If you're recently retired and just starting your search for a winter vacation destination that’s right for you, renting is definitely the way to go at first. Many snowbirds prefer the flexibility that renting allows and others don’t want the costs and responsibility of a second home.

The Pros of Renting

You’re not committed to the same building, area or destination, giving you the freedom to move around from year to year.
You can move around within a single winter season, trying out different destinations for a month at a time
If anything needs fixing at the property, it’s not your problem!
You don’t have the stress and headaches that come with managing a vacation property year-round
You’re not responsible for the many costs associate with owning a vacation property such as taxes, maintenance, condo fees, utilities and more
You won't have to consider the possible tax issues faced by Canadians who own and decide to sell their foreign real estate
You don’t have top worry about estate planning and what will happen to your property after you’re gone

The Cons of Renting

It is becoming increasingly difficult to find vacation rentals as demand increases due to so many people reaching retirement age
Competition for rental units is fierce, so if you want to rent for a shorter period than someone else, you will lose out
Rental rates are going up. High season rents (Jan-March) are going up each year as demand increases. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 U.S. to $7,500 U.S. and up per month. Beachfront and ocean view can be even higher.
Rental units are rarely well equipped in the kitchen in particular, so you often have to bring a lot of your own gadgets and equipment or you have to buy locally
Rentals offer very little date flexibility – they’re normally available for a minimum of one month, starting on 1st of the month and requiring you to vacate on the last day of the month.
Rental units can often be “tired” in appearance and not freshly decorated or furnished.
You’re usually stuck with basic cable and old tube TVs
Many rental units often don’t allow pets

Buying a winter home

If you find yourself renting for 4 months or more in the same destination year after year, then experts agree you’d usually be better off economically by buying. Of course, to achieve this you either have to have the necessary capital or the means to borrow.

While prices are generally on the rise, there are still a lot of bargains in both established and up and coming snowbird destinations across the U.S. Sunbelt and internationally.

To fund the purchase of a U.S. winter vacation home, some snowbirds will use a line of credit on a Canadian property, some will use available cash or investments and some will work with their Canadian banks to arrange a U.S. mortgage or arrange a mortgage with a U.S. bank directly. Remember, using a Canadian line of credit guarantees your payments are not subject to currency fluctuations, while U.S. mortgages can be tricky for Canadians and have exposure to currency fluctuations.

Regardless of how you fund the purchase of a winter vacation property, with prices rising there’s a good case to be made that an investment in U.S. real estate is a sound one. However, before you buy there are many things to consider, not the least of which are ongoing costs, tax implications and estate planning.

The Pros of Buying

It may even be cheaper to own, if you were a long time renter (4 months or more)
When you own, you can come and go as you please
You can choose a design you like and decorate to meet your taste
You don’t have to worry about availability from year to year or stress about finding a rental
You can leave your belongings there so you don’t have to bring or shop for them every year
You can get specialty TV channels, Netflix and other services you like
If you want, you can rent your unit out when you are not using it to bring in income
You can take your pets (within the rules of your condominium or club guidelines)

The Cons of Buying

You’ll be going to the same place every winter - a great comfort for many, but not for those with itchy feet!
The dollar. Currency fluctuations can play havoc with your budget for ongoing expenses and your U.S. mortgage (if you have one)
If you want to rent out your unit, there could be tax implications. Be sure to get professional advice.
If you sell your property, there will be U.S. capital gains tax consequences. Ask a lawyer for details.
Dying can bring complications. You need to thoroughly understand U.S. estate law and what would happen if you or your spouse were to die while owning property in the U.S. Consult a legal expert on this.
Costs! Depending on the type of property you buy, you will be responsible for maintenance costs, property taxes, utilities and homeowners insurance. Depending on the type of property you buy, you may also have condo fees and club membership fees. Be sure to look at the Reserve Fund status of any condominium purchase and find out how financially viable the project is.
You’ll need to hire a person or company to look after your property when you are not there

Source: Snowbird Advisor

21 Playroom Design Ideas Your Kids Will Love

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 17:23:41 GMT

Do you have a spare room in your home? Turn it into the ultimate kids playroom! Whether your little ones love to dress up, play with toys, or work on crafts, there are tons of playroom design ideas for you try!

Paint with Bright Colors

Color is key when designing a creative space that kids will love. Paint the walls with their favorite colors, an underwater theme, or a hand-drawn design for an eye-catching accent wall. Neutral colors are also great idea for those looking to style a modern playroom or who aren’t completely ready to take the plunge with bold colors. Just add some flair with a bright rug or pillows for that wow-factor.

Install Easy-to-Clean Flooring

Opting for floors that are wood or linoleum is a smart idea for spare room playrooms that might be prone to stains. If you’re looking for playroom flooring ideas that won’t break the bank or require much renovation, try foam flooring. It’s easy to clean, and it’s a fun way to add color and comfort to the room.

Decorate with Wall Decals

Interests, activities, and styles usually change as kids discover new things and get older. Stick-on wall decals are the perfect playroom decor solution for parents who want to create a cool space without having to commit to a specific wall color or theme.

Create a Chalkboard Wall

You won’t be afraid of your kids coloring on the wall with a playroom chalkboard wall! Kids and parents alike love this easy and fun DIY decor idea because it allows little ones to freely decorate the walls while giving parents peace of mind knowing that cleanup is easy and not permanent.

Add Toy Cubbies

Utilize vertical wall space in a new playroom by putting in a toy cubby! This is one of the best playroom storage ideas because it allows your kids to display their favorite toys and easily access any books, games, or play sets without having to dig through boxes in a closet.

Incorporate Cute Storage Bins

Kids room decorating ideas don’t need to be complex. With cute wicker baskets or patterned totes, you can get both fun designs and playroom storage. And if labeling isn’t quite your thing, color coordinate the toy storage bins to ensure your little ones can find exactly what they’re looking for!

Build Decorative Shelves

Floating shelves, free-standing shelves, and bookcases are all great playroom decorating ideas for changing up that spare room. Use them for toy and book storage, or display cute decorations like a framed picture, wooden trinkets, or vase of fake flowers to jazz up the room.

Set Up Cabinets

This playroom furniture idea lets you hide even the most disastrous of messes. You’ll have a home for items that don’t necessarily fit in storage boxes while keeping a clean and safe area. Use playroom cabinets to store board games, cards, construction paper, and any other craft supplies that need organizing.

Include Tables for Crafts

Whether you’re working with a large or small spare room, tables are a staple for any playroom. Kids can use them for craft projects, assembling racetracks, and putting together puzzles. Not to mention a playroom table is nice for having a place to enjoy an afternoon snack and juicebox!

Add Comfy Seating

No matter what playroom design you go with, seating that’s comfortable and easy to lounge on is essential. Keep it simple with a few small bean bag chairs and a fur rug, or incorporate a variety of fun pieces like floor cushions, a couch, and large stuffed animals.

Integrate Furniture with Storage

Functional and fun are necessary components when it comes to picking out kids playroom furniture. Ottomans with storage, hollowed-out benches, or benches with enough space underneath for baskets provide ample seating and help with playroom organization.

Create a “Nap Time” Space

A kids playroom doesn’t just have to be for playing games and pretending to be astronauts. Creating a designated nap space in a playroom allows your child to recharge and jump right back into their day of fun! Simply add a small daybed or large pillow with some blankets, and nestle it in a corner for a cozy space.

Display Kids Artwork

Putting your little one’s art projects on the wall is both a fantastic playroom wall decor idea and terrific way to show off their masterpieces. All you need is a few frames to keep the pictures in place and some hooks or nails to fasten them on the wall. For a more budget-friendly alternative, hang a wire clothes line or wooden hangers on thumbtacks to showcase new pictures frequently!

Create a Mini Stage

This children’s playroom idea is an easy project. The experienced carpenter will love this low-cost DIY playroom stage that requires some lumber, drywall anchors, and drapery panels. But if you’re looking for a simpler option, buy some cute curtains and a shower rod to install in a corner of the room.

Put Together a Dress-Up Corner

Let your kids transform from a wizard to a princess in a flash with a dress-up corner! Just add a metal hanging rack, some hooks, wicker baskets, and a mirror to any corner of a spare room, and let your little one’s imagination run wild!

Suspend a Swing

Looking for fun decor that will allow your kids to stay active even indoors? A swing should be at the top of your list! This unique feature is the perfect idea for an attic playroom, and it’s easy to install yourself. All you need is some industrial hooks, rope, and a sturdy board. (Make sure everything is properly supported!)

Toss in a Ball Pit

A mini ball pit is an ideal playroom addition that will turn any spare room into the cutest indoor attraction. Kids of all ages love this safe playroom idea, and it’s easy create your own with a baby pool and some plastic balls. You can even upgrade the size as the children grow!

Add a Cozy Fort

Having a fort that goes beyond blankets and pillows is a fun decor must-have for a playroom. Get creative with themed forts like an indoor treehouse, pirate ship, or castle. A teepee fort is an excellent alternative if you’re looking for playroom ideas on a budget.

Build a Playhouse Under Stairs

If you’re designing a basement playroom with your spare room, amp up the space with a custom a playhouse. Often, the space under the stairs goes unused, but you can utilize that vacant area by turning it into a custom playhouse kids will love!

Give Your Kids a Reading Nook

No kids playroom is complete without a reading nook. Add some floating shelves, fluffy pillows, a few blankets, and your tot’s favorite stories, and they can unwind with a good book after a long day of playing!

Invest in a Slide

An indoor slide is on every kids dream playroom list! Install a playground-style slide for endless thrills, or incorporate a miniature-size slide that’s cheaper and easy to store for more playroom space.

Source: SpaceWise

10 Secrets to Selling Your Home Faster

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 15:01:59 GMT

Selling Secret #10: Pricing it right

Find out what your home is worth, then shave 15 to 20 percent off the price. You’ll be stampeded by buyers with multiple bids — even in the worst markets — and they’ll bid up the price over what it’s worth. It takes real courage and most sellers just don’t want to risk it, but it’s the single best strategy to sell a home in today’s market.

Selling Secret #9: Half-empty closets

Storage is something every buyer is looking for and can never have enough of. Take half the stuff out of your closets then neatly organize what’s left in there. Buyers will snoop, so be sure to keep all your closets and cabinets clean and tidy.

Selling Secret #8: Light it up

Maximize the light in your home. After location, good light is the one thing that every buyer cites that they want in a home. Take down the drapes, clean the windows, change the lampshades, increase the wattage of your light bulbs and cut the bushes outside to let in sunshine. Do what you have to do make your house bright and cheery – it will make it more sellable.

Selling Secret #7: Play the agent field

A secret sale killer is hiring the wrong broker. Make sure you have a broker who is totally informed. They must constantly monitor the multiple listing service (MLS), know what properties are going on the market and know the comps in your neighborhood. Find a broker who embraces technology – a tech-savvy one has many tools to get your house sold.

Selling Secret #6: Conceal the critters

You might think a cuddly dog would warm the hearts of potential buyers, but you’d be wrong. Not everybody is a dog- or cat-lover. Buyers don’t want to walk in your home and see a bowl full of dog food, smell the kitty litter box or have tufts of pet hair stuck to their clothes. It will give buyers the impression that your house is not clean. If you’re planning an open house, send the critters to a pet hotel for the day.

Selling Secret #5: Don’t over-upgrade

Quick fixes before selling always pay off. Mammoth makeovers, not so much. You probably won’t get your money back if you do a huge improvement project before you put your house on the market. Instead, do updates that will pay off and get you top dollar. Get a new fresh coat of paint on the walls. Clean the curtains or go buy some inexpensive new ones. Replace door handles, cabinet hardware, make sure closet doors are on track, fix leaky faucets and clean the grout.

Selling Secret #4: Take the home out of your house

One of the most important things to do when selling your house is to de-personalize it. The more personal stuff in your house, the less potential buyers can imagine themselves living there. Get rid of a third of your stuff – put it in storage. This includes family photos, memorabilia collections and personal keepsakes. Consider hiring a home stager to maximize the full potential of your home. Staging simply means arranging your furniture to best showcase the floor plan and maximize the use of space.Selling

Secret #3: The kitchen comes first

You’re not actually selling your house, you’re selling your kitchen – that’s how important it is. The benefits of remodeling your kitchen are endless, and the best part of it is that you’ll probably get 85% of your money back. It may be a few thousand dollars to replace countertops where a buyer may knock $10,000 off the asking price if your kitchen looks dated. The fastest, most inexpensive kitchen updates include painting and new cabinet hardware. Use a neutral-color paint so you can present buyers with a blank canvas where they can start envisioning their own style. If you have a little money to spend, buy one fancy stainless steel appliance. Why one? Because when people see one high-end appliance they think all the rest are expensive too and it updates the kitchen.

Selling Secret #2: Always be ready to show

Your house needs to be "show-ready" at all times – you never know when your buyer is going to walk through the door. You have to be available whenever they want to come see the place and it has to be in tip-top shape. Don’t leave dishes in the sink, keep the dishwasher cleaned out, the bathrooms sparkling and make sure there are no dust bunnies in the corners. It’s a little inconvenient, but it will get your house sold.

Selling Secret #1: The first impression is the only impression

No matter how good the interior of your home looks, buyers have already judged your home before they walk through the door. You never have a second chance to make a first impression. It’s important to make people feel warm, welcome and safe as they approach the house. Spruce up your home’s exterior with inexpensive shrubs and brightly colored flowers. You can typically get a 100-percent return on the money you put into your home’s curb appeal. Entryways are also important. You use it as a utility space for your coat and keys. But, when you’re selling, make it welcoming by putting in a small bench, a vase of fresh-cut flowers or even some cookies.

Top 10 Things to Look for When You Are House Hunting

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 12:02:53 GMT

If you're thinking about buying a home, this list can help get your search off on the right foot. While the number of rooms, the condition of the kitchen, and the size of the yard are important, there are other things to think over before you make an offer. Consider these factors.

The Location

They say that the three most important things to think about when buying are home are location, location, location. You can live with almost any imperfection in a home if you love the neighborhood and your neighbors. You can change almost everything else. But, once bought, you cannot change your home's location. When you go house hunting, consider any potential home's proximity to your work, the charm of the neighborhood, how the home is situated on the lot, ease of access, noise from neighbors, traffic, and pets, as well as access to parks, shopping, schools, and public transportation.

The Site

Beyond location, look at the site of the home. If the home is on a hill, does it have a view, a walkout basement, or lots of stairs to climb? Do neighbors' windows look directly into the home? Is the yard suitable for kids, pets, gardening, or other uses? Is access to the property safe regarding driveway elevation or stairs to the front door?

The Neighborhood

Be sure the neighborhood, and not just the house, meets your expectations. They say that you should own the smallest home in the nicest neighborhood that you can afford. You'll have a great view! Drive around on weekdays and weekends, during the day and in the evening. Are homes in the neighborhood consistent in size and features? Do the neighbors keep the yards clean and tidy, or are there old cars and trash around? Is the neighborhood safe enough for people to walk, run, or bike, and are there children playing in the yards?

The Home's Curb Appeal

Your home should reflect your lifestyle. Do you live a laid-back life? Then you might not want a formal Victorian or Tudor-style home. Something simpler and more contemporary might be in order. Look at the exterior features. A brick home is easier to maintain, unless, of course, you live in an earthquake-prone area. Ask yourself whether the roof in good condition. Is the landscaping attractive and are the sidewalks leading to the home safe?

The Size and the Floor Plan

You may be thinking about buying your dream home. But is your dream home impractical? Do you need four bedrooms and four baths when you live alone? A large home can give you the extra space you've always wanted for a home office or crafts or art projects. But you'll pay higher heating bills and have higher taxes. It will take more furniture to fill it and money to decorate. Think about how the new home space will be used and whether it will fit your lifestyle now and in the future.

The Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Decide how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need, and only look at homes that meet your criteria. It would be a shame to fall in love with a cozy, charming cottage that isn't big enough. An extra bedroom is always a plus, as it can be used for a home office, craft studio, or guest room. If you think you'll be adding more room later, be sure to consult an architect who can advise you on space planning, lot usage, and city regulations.

The Kitchen

If the kitchen is the heart of your home, don't settle for a home with a kitchen that won't work. You can always remodel, but it's very costly. Can you replace cabinet faces and countertops? Will an inexpensive makeover be sufficient? Don't worry about appliances, as they can usually be easily replaced.

The Closets and Storage

Older homes tend to have little closets and not a lot of storage space. If you have lots of sports equipment, craft supplies, out-of-season clothes, and holiday decorations, be sure you know where all this will go in your new home. Newer homes tend to have big closets and lots of storage. You can always add storage space, but you might have to sacrifice living space in your rooms.

The Windows and Lighting

Do you love a bright sunny room or do you love privacy? Look at home with light and sunshine in mind. Look at the locations of electrical outlets and fixtures. Will they accommodate your lighting needs? Is there recessed lighting in the kitchen, cove lighting in the family room and a lovely chandelier in the dining room? If not, you can add them later, but it's nice to have it in place when you move in.

The Finishing Touches

Sometimes the simplest home looks spectacular thanks to the installed moldings, hardware, and fireplace. If these elements are important to you, look for them while house hunting or be ready to add them after you move in.

If you keep these specific elements of a home in mind, your house hunting will be more successful, and you'll likely end up with the home of your dreams.

Source: The Spruce

John Isshak - Broker of Record : Blog : Latest Blog Posts

How To Select the Right Paint and Color For Your Home

Which paint should you choose?

Which sheen should I select?

Which color should I choose?

I want a subtle and soothing look:

I want an elegant look:

I want a vibrant look:

Creating Focal Points:

The Homemade Pegboard Entryway Organizer That’s Surprisingly Simple to Create (You Can Do It!)

Materials to Make a DIY Entryway Pegboard

Step One: Mark Holes for Pegs

Step Two: Drill Holes Into Plywood Board

Step Three: Cut Dowels

Step Four: Hang Board

Step Five: Arrange Dowels on Board

Clever DIY Gym Shelf

Materials:

Tool Requirements:

Step One: Cut the Plywood

Step Two: Create the French Cleats ​

Step Three: Attach the French Cleats

Step Four: Create the Frame ​

Step Five: Build Your Organizer Units​

Step Six: Apply the Final Touches and Secure to Wall

Step Seven: Decorate!

3 Easy and Elegant Ways to Decorate Your Halloween Mantel

Baseboards, Doors and Trim: Should You Paint Them White?

Use a shade, Tint or Tone of the Wall Colour

Paint Trim and Doors the Same Colour as the Walls

Choose a Different Colour Altogether

15 Hot Bedroom Decorating Styles and Tips

Modern Farmhouse

Rustic

Mid-Century Modern

Industrial

Hollywood Regency

Vintage

Minimalism

Wood Plank Walls

Strong Color on the Walls

Warm Metals

4-Poster Beds

Statement Light Fixtures

Wallpaper

7 Things That Won't Increase Your Home Value

Extensive Professional Landscaping

Upgrading the Utilities

New HVAC

New Roof

Swimming Pool or Hot Tub

Making Quickly Dated Decor Changes

Solar Panels

The Bottom Line

Top 10 Rules for Staging Homes from The Stagers

1. Grab them from the curb.

2. Make it sparkle.

3. Pay attention to color and light.

4. Depersonalize.

5. Consider replacing furnishings.

6. Invest in new artwork.

7. Make repairs.

8. Apply a fresh coat of paint.

9. Don't forget the floors.

10. Spring for new light fixtures.

Spa-Inspired Master Bathroom

Questions to ask

Choosing Features

Spacious Showers

Deep soaker tubs

Separate toilet rooms

Vanity privacy

Sink style

Other considerations

Top 6 Kitchen Layouts

Basic Kitchen Layout Types

One-Wall Kitchens

Galley Kitchen Remodel Ideas

L-Shaped Kitchen Designs

Horseshoe Kitchens

Step Two: Create the French Cleats

Step Four: Create the Frame

Step Five: Build Your Organizer Units