How to Navigate Local Laws and Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

The rise in popularity of Airbnb and Vrbo has increased demand for short-term rentals. What’s even more surprising is that the potential annual income of rental property investments like a room or apartment has become enticingly high. Thus, one great way to earn passive real estate income is to run a short-term rental business.

However, just like any other business, short-term rentals are subject to numerous laws and regulations. But what are they, and how can you navigate through them? Let’s gain a deeper understanding of what a short-term rental is and the laws and regulations that adhere to it.

Short-Term Rental: What Does it Entail?

To accommodate visitors for shorter stays, private homes are often classified as short-term rentals (STR). The term "short-term rental" is commonly used to describe renting a fully furnished apartment for a brief period of time. Houses, apartments, condos, and even rooms can all fall under the STR umbrella, as long as the renter’s stay does not get past 6 months.

Renting out one's second or vacation home is a common way for its owners to make money while they're away. Passive real estate income, marketing digitization (via platforms like Airbnb), overall flexibility, and tax benefits all factor into homeowners' decisions to pursue short-term rental strategies. If the landlord wants to use the property for personal use, a short-term rental is more preferable than acquiring long-term rental agreements.

Experts from techvestor.com stated that the rules governing short-term rentals can vary by nation, region, and even city. The following are examples of possible STR regulations:

• Necessary licensing/registration steps

• Zoning and permit regulations

• local government communication include things like guest count and booking duration

• Legal mandates for worker safety

• Yearly nightly rental caps

• Requirements for Permanent Residence

• Vacation rentals may have occupancy limits

Missing even just one requirement could hurt your business, and even worse, you could find yourself in the middle of an unwanted lawsuit. With all of these in mind, when it comes to your rental property investment regulations and laws, how could you easily keep up?

Navigate Local Laws and Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

The last thing you want for your short-term rental property investment is for it to fail. But have you ever thought of it giving you a lot of headaches because of lawsuits and fines? While this scenario is relatively rare, it is best that you know how to work around it.

Here are some things you can do to familiarize yourself with and navigate local laws and regulations for your short-term rental.

1. Know the Kind of Short-Term Rental You Have

The concept of short-term rentals may appear simple, but in practice, there are a few more moving parts to consider. Your temporary housing options will typically fall into two categories: building type and duration of stay.

What constitutes a short-term rental's typical structure? This is not consistent across the 50 states, much less with all the cities around the globe. In some states, it could be classified as a furnished residence, housing complex, or other dwelling rented to the transient, traveling, or vacationing public. Meanwhile, some areas classify it as any rental property that has at most six rooms.

On the other hand, the duration of stay that determines if your rental property investment is short-term or not also depends on the location of the property. Some states categorize a short-term rental as a property that is leased out more than three times in a calendar year for stays of less than a month. Some states, such as Washington, define it as a home or portion of a home rented out for less than 30 nights at a time.

Clearly, knowing the kind of short-term rental property you have is important, as you’ll need it when filling out registration forms, etc. However, the structure and duration of the stay vary depending on local laws. Thus, it is best to know how short-term rentals are defined in your area.

2. Ask A Ton of Questions

Asking a lot of questions helps you understand how to work around local laws and regulations that apply to your short-term rental property. It is important that you know and cover all bases so that when problems arise, you will not be caught empty-handed.

In spite of assurances to the contrary, keep probing for answers, even if they claim there are no guidelines. You should be aware of the upcoming regulatory climate, including any rules that pertain to short-term rentals despite their apparent lack of such characteristics.

3. Make Sure to Get Complete Business License

The state will know you are operating a short-term rental business and that your home meets minimum health and safety standards if you have a license or permit. There are two types of permits that may be required before you can rent a property: a general business license and a specific business license (in this case, a short-term business license).

4. Maintain Property Safety at All Costs

In most cases, the short-term rental application process will require you to attest that the house is not only in compliance with health and safety regulations but also with building codes. You'll also have to prove that your nearby neighbors are aware that you're renting and that you're in compliance with zoning laws.

After proving that your property is safe to open for business and for people to stay there, local governments will usually award you with permits and certificates. Normally, these certificates must be posted in the property’s lobby.

However, it doesn’t stop there. After your opening, you must still ensure that your property is generally safe so that you can avoid being sued for not maintaining your short-term rental property. For instance, make sure that the fire exits and detectors work. You should also replace your fire extinguishers every few years, depending on your local regulations.

Conclusion

Managing a short-term rental property is no easy task. However, knowing the local laws and regulations and understanding how to navigate through them will help you do so.

Guest Contributor: Daniel Martin

Useful Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

In most peoples’ lives, there are events which they would consider to go above and beyond in importance when compared to most other things. In this category, things like wedding celebrations, first car purchases, first jobs and first home purchases can all be found. Just like most of the things in the same category, buying a home requires a lot of preparation, and the more details you get right, the more satisfied you’ll be, and this guide is here to help.

Finances first

The first thing you should take into consideration when buying your new home is the specifics of your financials. Buying a home can be taxing on both the mind and the wallet, which is why you need to be well-prepared. Your financial stability and eligibility for the mortgage will be dictated by your credit score, existing debts, income and your ability to meet the down payment requirements. Luckily, for first-time home buyers, down payments can be as small as 3%, but there are other factors at play as well, such as closing costs and the costs of moving in. The reason why debt, credit score and mortgage costs are considered is that a home loan and a refinance home loan are investments for your bank, which will require proof of your financial stability. It’s advisable you pay off any existing debts and keep your credit score in check before applying for a mortgage.

Get pre-approved

A pre-approval letter from a lender can show real estate agents and home sellers that you mean business and give you an edge over other home buyers. It is essentially the lender’s guarantee that they have agreed to lend you a specific amount under specific terms. Upon application, the lender will consider your income, debt and assets before they agree, but don’t be afraid to shop around and compare rates and terms from different lenders in order to find the best deal, or even apply for different loans at the same time, as this will not affect your credit score as long as it is done in a set timeframe.

Make a list of must-haves

When you're looking for a home, it's important to make a list of must-haves. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on the homes that meet your needs. Some common must-haves for first-time home buyers include location, number of bedrooms, and square footage. These traits will influence the cost in their own way, so prioritisation is key. The types of homes include:

• Single-family homes

• Duplexes – two homes, with two entrances and one common wall

• Condominiums – comprised of multiple units, only the interior of which is owned by the owner, with shared amenities such as parking lots, gardens or pools

• Townhomes – multistory buildings with multiple units and shared amenities

When it comes to location, you should consider how close your home will be to essential facilities such as schools, pedestrian zones and parking zones.

Find the right real estate agent

Hiring a real estate agent can be extremely helpful when you're a first-time home buyer. A real estate agent can help you navigate the process, find homes that meet your needs and negotiate on your behalf. In order to find the best one for you, try to get referrals from others, request references during the interviewing phase and ask them about their experience with first-time home buyers.

I is for inspection

Before you make an offer on a home, it's important to get a home inspection. A home inspector will look for any potential problems or issues with the home, such as structural damage or mould. This information can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to move forward with the purchase.

Close the deal

Once you’ve found the perfect home for you, it’s time to sign the paperwork and close the deal, but be sure to enlist the help of a real estate attorney to make sure everything goes according to plan.

In conclusion, buying a home for the first time can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and guidance, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. By getting pre-approved for a mortgage, knowing the limits of your budget, knowing what you want and finding the right professionals to assist you, you can guarantee yourself a pleasant home-buying experience.

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

How to Care for Your Newly Renovated Bathroom

One of the best things about having a new bathroom is that it feels clean and fresh. Often, it also feels like it is a total step away from the rest of your home, especially if this is the first room that you have renovated for a while, or even at all.

However, for you to keep reliving the delight of your bathroom renovation every time you open the door, you are going to have to put some effort into the way it looks.

#1 Don’t Let the Clutter Back In

Most bathrooms are heavily cluttered places, full of plastic unattractive bottles containing a multitude of different toiletries. It is highly likely that once your bathroom is completed, there will be a time when these bottles and containers are not present.

Although some are a necessity and not practical to permanently keep in a cupboard, there are ways in which you can make them look more attractive. This is achieved by purchasing decorative pump action bottles that complement each other and your bathroom and decanting your toiletries into them.

#2 Look After Your Worktops

If your new bathroom has areas with a wooden worktop, you will need to keep it clean and dry or risk your water seeping into the wood and turning it black. This is a precaution that should be taken even if your wooden areas are sealed with wax, varnish, or oil.

No doubt, your designers or installers will take time to tell you how to care for the surfaces in your bathroom, but it can be heart-wrenchingly hard, not to mention expensive, if your worktop ends up having to be replaced due to water damage.

#3 Check for Wear and Tear

This said, it is not just your sink area that you will have to watch. If you have shower screens installed in your bathroom, you will also have to pay attention to the seal around them. As they get older, you may find that they start to deteriorate and start to let water seep into areas where you will not want it to be. These, however, can be very easily sourced and replaced. Stores, such as The Shower Seal Shop, have a good array of different types on offer to be purchased.

#4 Keep on Top of Your Cleaning Regime

A deterrent is certainly better than a cure here. Spending hours cleaning and scrubbing a bathroom so it shines is something that only appeals to a very small number of individuals. By looking after your bathroom whenever it is used and carrying out a small amount of cleaning at any one time, you will endeavor to keep your bathroom looking new and fresh whenever you enter it.

For instance, using a squeegee after every shower on your glass screen and high gloss tiles will keep them shiny and free from limescale build-up. It is also a good idea to wipe down any chrome after a steamy shower, to keep its appearance mirror bright.

Final Thoughts

Bathroom renovations are not cheap and should, therefore, be treated with love and care after the work has been finished. Taking a little time just to make sure that everything is kept as it should be not only makes the room more welcoming but will also extend the appearance of your new bathroom for years to come.

Here are 7 Reasons Why You Should Hire a Junk Removal Company

Although most people prefer cleaning out junk themselves, there are certain times during the year when the waste is simply too much to handle. It could be around the end of the year when festivities peak or during the summer.

Regardless, hiring a junk removal service is always a good idea. If you think this would cost an additional dent in your pocket, think again. Most junk removal companies offer their services at a very minimal price.

But, if you’re still having trouble wrapping your head around the idea of junk hauling services, then sit back and go through this article. Here we discuss all the imperative reasons why you must hire a junk removal company.

What Services Does a Junk Removal Company Offer?

If you think a junk removal company is all about removing garbage and waste, you have taken this completely wrong. It’s more than removing junk hauling.

Most junk removal companies provide cleaning services for you and your neighborhood. But there are several other services that you can acquire from them. It depends on the junk removal company you’re hiring.

Here are some standard services you must expect from a professional junk removal company:

• Garbage disposal

• E-waste disposal

• Furniture removal

• Commercial and residential trash removal

• Trash removal

Apart from the above, high-end junk removal companies may even offer home or office cleaning services. However, the number of services a company offers depends on the kind of network they have established. Allow us to elaborate. 

Typically, junk removal companies offer a limited number of services. However, they may come across special requests - like attic cleaning, removal of wiring, or anything that’s not common. Here, full-service companies don’t return customers. Instead, they look for the right resource and get the job done, making it convenient for their customers.

Therefore, you may want to search for a junk removal company that provides all kinds of services you may need. Everything is delivered professionally.

Since it’s about professionalism and commitment, JunkGator has set incredible standards.  Professional junk removal companies like this understand their customers’ needs. They offer tailored services and can go beyond your expectations.

The more professional and experienced they are, the better their performance will be. So, you must look for a professional service with well-trained, licensed, and experienced staff. 

Why Hire a Junk Removal Company: 7 Reasons

Moving on, let’s discuss some of the solid reasons you should hire a junk removal company. If you’re having trouble with the idea, perhaps these reasons will convince you.

1. Utmost Convenience

The most significant reason behind hiring a junk removal company is that it ensures the utmost convenience. You realize that you possibly have to pay a hefty fine if you don’t clean your front yard. Seattle was the first city to fine people for not sorting out their garbage properly and soon, New York, San Francisco and other cities followed suit.

It may seem challenging to find time for cleaning if you’re busy at the office or with other daily activities. So, just book a trash hauler, and they will be at your front door in no time.

2. Safety and Health

Sometimes, moving large quantities of waste can make it very hazardous for the person trying to haul it. Back strains, abrasions, and cuts are a few of the hazards of cleaning junk.

So, hire professional junk hauling services and save yourself from these unnecessary hazards. You never know what could cause back pain, so avoiding it would be a far better solution altogether.

3. Save Time

Hiring a professional company to clean out all the junk in your home or commercial space will save you a lot of time.

These professional cleaners are experts in removing waste within the minimum time. This way, you can save time and perform other necessary chores while a professional company takes care of the cleaning.

4. Reliable and Efficient

Removing junk doesn’t simply mean that you gather all the waste from one point, dump it in a truck and then put it elsewhere. You also have to be aware of all the things you can dispose of legally and what you can’t. 

For instance, hazardous items (chemicals, medicines, cleaning solutions, paints, etc.) can’t be disposed of like ordinary junk. They need extra precautions; otherwise, they may cause damage to the environment. On the other hand, recyclable materials need different treatments.

A junk removal company will know all the dos and don’ts of junk removal. They will have the license to move the waste from one place to another and will also take care of things that can be recycled. So, hiring a junk removal company, in any case, is fruitful.

5. Reclaim Your Space

Once you hire a junk hauling service and they take all the waste away, you can finally reclaim your space in your home.

Most times, our homes become loaded with garbage and waste because we don’t find the time to clean them properly. So, with the help of a junk removal company, you can have your home cleaned and reclaim your space to better organize your things.

6. Declutter

Clutter can be a massive headache for people who like clean and organized spaces. With the help of a professional cleaning service, you can declutter your home and regain a sense of perspective.

Once you have a more precise space with less clutter,  you will have more freedom to figure out what to do next.

7. Can Handle Larger Jobs

In some cases, hiring a professional junk removal company can be very efficient when you're relocating your home or office - or renovating it.

You must remember to handle only tasks that you’re equipped to handle. Don’t try to move furniture that’s much bigger than your capacity. The professional junk hauler will move the furniture and remove all the mess created during the renovation.

They are equipped to handle larger jobs, so it would be best if you let them do their work.

Final Thoughts

This is everything we could gather regarding why you should hire professional junk removal companies.

As you have read, junk removal companies are highly efficient. They offer great convenience at a minimum expense, and you can remove all the junk without even moving a muscle. You simply have to book junk removal companies online, give them your address, and sit back while they do their work.

Hiring junk removal is exceptionally cost-effective; they are affordable and offer absolute assurance of health and safety. These companies are equipped to handle larger-scale junk; some even offer junk removal services for disaster management.

So, if you want a hassle-free experience cleaning your front yard or removing an old piece of furniture, hire a professional junk removal service. Simply search for terms like, “junk removal company near me” or “full service junk removal in my town”. This way you will find a handful of options.

Guest Contributor: Daniel Martin

What is the Difference Between a Sump Pump and an Ejector Pump?

If you’re a home owner, odds are you have a sump pump and an ejector pump, and if you don’t, you absolutely should. However, it can get confusing know which one is a sump pump, and which is the ejector, and what each of them do. We’re going to discuss the differences, as well as the importance of having one. This is one of those jobs that you should leave to the professionals because of how important they both are, as well as sometimes It can be difficult to install.

Sump pump

Sump pumps are typically located in spaces of the house that are uncommon to be, such as a basement or crawlspace. They are placed on the bottom level of a house to prevent water building up in the space from rain or snow. This is the main pump that is used to prevent flooding. It pushes water away to prevent the water from having an opportunity to build up.

Ejector Pump

The ejector pump deals solely on waste water and it is way more intricate than a sump pump. Ejector pumps deal with sewage from bathrooms or kitchen sinks. Ejector pumps are linked directly to the sewer lines and another type of exit to push sewer fumes to outside the home.

Why are these necessary?

These pumps are necessary to keep your home in good working order. If there are ejector pump issues, dealing with sewer waste is super dangerous and should only be dealt with by professionals. If your sump pump isn’t working, water can pool in your basement and ruin your floorboards, as well as develop mold and mildew, which is another dangerous thing to deal with.

Call us today at 708-845-7922 to schedule an appointment today to install or repair your sump pump and/or ejector pump!

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

How To Bring New Shine To A Devastated Garden

Gardening is a great way to bring nature into your home and add beauty, color, and life to your outdoor space. But if you’ve had the same garden for years, it might be time to consider upgrading it! Upgrading doesn’t have to mean tearing up everything in sight. With some thoughtful planning and creativity, you can transform your tired old garden into something new and exciting that will bring joy for many years to come. Here are some tips on how to upgrade your garden with minimal effort or expense.

Sod Installation

If you’re looking to completely overhaul your garden, consider installing Sod. It’s a great way to give your outdoor space an instant makeover without the hassle of planting seeds or laying down turf. You can choose from a wide variety of grasses and other plants to create the perfect look for your yard. Many homeowners choose to install Sod because it's easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. You can simply roll it out in place, cut and fit it to the desired shape and secure it with staples or pins. It's best to install Sod in the early spring so that it can start to take root and establish itself before summer.

Raised Beds and Planters

Raised beds and planters are a great way to add dimension and interest to your garden without taking up too much space. These structures create separate areas for different kinds of plants, which can help you organize your garden more effectively and even add a bit of drama to the overall design. Plus, since they’re elevated off the ground, they provide better drainage and less maintenance compared to in-ground beds.

Raised beds and planters come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs and your budget. For example, if you’re short on space, consider a wall-mounted planter or an elevated bed that fits snugly against the side of your house.

Vertical Gardens

Vertical gardens are a great way to maximize small spaces and bring color and life to even the tiniest of yards. They consist of planters hung on a wall or fence, either directly or with supporting structures such as trellises. Vertical gardens are great for gardens with limited space because they don’t take up any ground area and can be easily adjusted to fit your needs. It’s also a great way to add texture and interest to your yard.

Landscaping

Landscaping is one of the most popular ways to upgrade your garden. You can add trees, shrubs, flowers, and other plants to create a lush and vibrant outdoor space. Be sure to choose plants that work well with the local climate and soil conditions for the best results. If you’re not sure where to start, consider consulting a professional landscaper or checking out online resources for ideas and inspiration.

Lighting

Adding lighting to your garden can add drama and ambiance while also making it easier to enjoy your outdoor space after dark. There are many different types of lighting available, so you should be able to find something that fits your needs and budget. Consider installing solar-powered lights for a more eco-friendly option. String lights, spotlights, and garden torches are all great options that can help you transform your garden into an inviting place after dark.

A New Fence

Installing a new fence is the perfect way to both upgrade your garden and increase its privacy. You can choose from a variety of fencing materials such as wood, vinyl, or metal. For maximum privacy, consider installing a taller fence with trellises or lattices. This will give you some extra height while also adding an aesthetic touch. When choosing a fence, be sure to consider the size and shape of your garden as well as any local building codes. It’s a good idea to consult a professional before starting your project. A new fence can add both privacy and beauty to your garden, so it’s a worthwhile investment. 

These are just a few ideas for upgrading your garden. With careful planning and some creativity, you can transform your outdoor space into an oasis that you can enjoy year-round. Have fun experimenting with different designs and materials until you find the perfect look and feel for your garden. With a little bit of effort, you can create an outdoor space that not only looks great but is also functional and comfortable. Try to start planning and shopping for materials as soon as possible, as some projects can take longer than expected. If you need help, don’t hesitate to hire a professional who can help you create the garden of your dreams. Good luck and happy gardening!

What to Do With Your Belongings During a Home Renovation

If you are going through a renovation of your home, you already know it will be a huge change from what you have been living with. You might be wondering how exactly to go about storing your belongings and how you should pack and protect them. This is the main concern for many homeowners. Your belongings are your most valuable investment, and you want to ensure they are stored safely. Here are a few tips for deciding what to do with your belongings.

1. Use Rolling Racks For Clothing Storage
When you have to move your belongings out of their closets, removing all the clothing from their shelves is essential. You will want to remove and place them in a storage container to store your other clothes or put them in a rolling rack where you can stack them up. This will allow you to keep all your clothing in one area. You can use a rolling rack with wide open spaces to store more oversized items while using one with small compartments will keep your belongings in place.

2. Use Stackable Bins
You can place your belongings in stackable storage boxes to keep them organized and contained. You can use these boxes to store anything from clothing, accessories, linens, toys, and more. They come in different sizes, and many have lids you can use to cover them up. These bins are made with top-quality metal that keeps them sturdier than other containers.

3. Use Cardboard Boxes to Store Items
If you have more oversized items, such as a refrigerator, washing machine, or other furniture, you can use cardboard boxes to store them. You can dismantle the furniture to fit it into the boxes and protect it from damage. Cardboard storage boxes also come with covers you can use to cover your belongings. You must consider how much space your belongings need and choose appropriately sized bins and containers to ensure everything fits.
Your belongings are important and should be stored with the utmost care. You want to be sure that your things are always safe and protected. You need to pay attention to how you will keep them, so they do not get damaged during the renovation.

4. Donate Your Belongings
You will make room for new furniture and decor through your renovation. If you have some items that are no longer needed or are worn out, you can always donate them. You can donate them to a shelter or organization that can provide the items to people who need them. You can offer your clothes to friends or family members. You can even sell some of the things and use the money to purchase new ones. 

Bonus Tips:

Hire a Moving Company
If you need more storage space to accommodate everything, it might be best to hire a moving company. They can pack everything and move it all in one trip. You also can use a moving company if your home is more than one story high or if you are planning on redecorating the entire house. The company will also be able to take care of everything and protect your belongings from damage during the move.

Hire a Professional Packing Service
If you are unsure how much furniture and other belongings you have, or if you are worried about the quality of protection, you can hire professionals to pack you. Some companies specialize in packing items for home renovations and will ensure that everything is secured and out of the way during construction. They can package almost anything to be ready to move when it comes time.

Written by Colin Crown, Digital PR Specialist for Ameritex Movers.

6 Ways to Make Your Kitchen Look More Expensive

When walking into their kitchen, many people feel like they entered a time capsule. Namely, many older Australian homes have pretty dated and cheap-looking kitchens. Aesthetics is not the only problem when it comes to older homes. They are often also less functional. Many old kitchen design choices are unsuitable for a modern household. For instance, less counter space was characteristic of many old Australian kitchen designs. Moreover, times have also changed; therefore, you need to have modern technology on your side. 

The modern kitchen version must provide sufficient countertops and enough storage space to fit all the necessary appliances that make preparing meals easier. But aside from functionality, you also want your kitchen to look more expensive.

Therefore, we've created a list of six easy ways that can help you make your kitchen look modern as well as more expensive.

Replace your flooring

Flooring is often a neglected part of your kitchen although it has a large role when it comes to the modern and expensive look of the heart of your home. They often keep you in the past and look inexpensive. Therefore, start remodelling your kitchen by replacing your traditional linoleum or rolled vinyl flooring with timeless materials like ceramic tile, wood, or stone. They will last longer, boost the value of your home and make your kitchen look more expensive.

Paint your kitchen walls in a new colour

You don't need to wait until your next home renovation to paint your kitchen walls in a new colour. That will give the space a hint of glamour and elegance, and breathe new life into it. For instance, you can choose a complementary colour to make your kitchen fit well with other adjacent rooms. A good idea is to paint the tiles or brick on your walls. That will make your kitchen look stylish and unique.

Swap metals

If you want a modern and luxurious kitchen, it's time to replace all metal materials that were popular a few decades ago. They surely won't contribute to your kitchen looking glamorous. Since manufacturers release new and innovative materials, it's time to rethink, for instance, your lighting fixtures or drawer handles. Opt for some modern metals such as copper, stainless steel, matte aluminium, or brushed gold. If you upgrade your kitchen cabinetry, range hood, or lighting with these materials, your kitchen will look glamorous and very expensive.

Opt for new countertops

Your countertops are also a large and important part of your kitchen. Thus, they have to be made of quality materials and long-lasting. Old Australian kitchens have an outdated, inconvenient, or cheap vinyl workspace, and now it's time to change if you want your kitchen to look expensive. Nowadays, the variety of countertop surfaces is endless: from granite, wood, quartz, tile, brick, and soapstone to marble, so check out marble suppliers in Sydney. They offer an elegant and luxurious material that has been used in high-end projects for centuries. Today, their products are prized for their beauty, exclusivity and durability. It is often used for countertops, but also for flooring and other applications where its unique look can add value and style.

Paint your old-fashioned cabinetry

If new kitchen cabinets are not an option for you, paint your existing ones in new appealing colours. Besides, this is a great option for those with a limited budget who want to make something new and glamorous with their kitchen. You will be surprised how your old kitchen elements look in some other colours such as coral, cream, white, marine blue, forest green or even grey and black.

Install new lighting

Although sometimes it can be an afterthought, the lighting is crucial for the ambience, versatility, and safety of your kitchen. It also contributes an expensive and glamorous look. Therefore, consider installing a dimmer switch, pendant lighting or elegant chandeliers above a kitchen island. Those are all excellent options to upgrade your old-fashioned cheap look kitchen into a modern and glamorous one.

As you can see, from bringing in new colours to updating finishes, there are plenty of options that can improve your outdated, cheap-looking kitchen. Choose the right option and give the heart of your home that expensive and glamorous look it deserves.

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

Gutter Maintenance Tips That Every Homeowner Should Know

Gutters are an essential structural feature of almost every home and are designed to protect the walls, roof, and foundation from water damage. Keeping your gutters clean and in good working order is vital for protecting your home from costly damage due to clogged or overflowing gutters. Here are some gutter maintenance tips that every homeowner should know.

1. Call professionals for help if needed 

Gutters are not always easy to maintain and sometimes it is best to call a professional. A professional will have the right tools, and know-how, and can get the job done quickly. Additionally, with gutter repairs, it is important to make sure the job is done correctly. If there is a problem, a professional will be able to fix it without further damage. It's a good idea to have a professional inspect your gutters at least once a year. Also, if there are any signs of damage, don't hesitate to call a professional. While it's possible to repair minor damage yourself, it's best to have a professional handle more serious repairs.

2. Clean your gutters regularly

It's essential to clean your gutters regularly in order to keep them functioning properly and prevent issues such as overflows, blockages, and water damage. Start by removing any debris that has built up in your gutters such as leaves and twigs. This is normally done with a garden trowel or gloved hands. Make sure to wear protective gloves since some of the debris may be sharp and dangerous. Next, use a garden hose or pressure washer on low-pressure settings to rinse away the dirt and debris. You can also use a ladder to reach higher gutters, but make sure you take all necessary safety precautions. Finally, inspect your gutters for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or holes, and repair them with a sealant if needed.

3. Invest in gutter guards

Gutter guards, such as mesh screens or inserts, help keep leaves, twigs, and other debris out of your gutters. They are relatively easy to install and can be found in most hardware stores. Installing gutter guards will reduce the amount of maintenance that needs to be done on your gutters. Additionally, they can help prevent clogs, slowing the buildup of water and ice in your gutters. It's important to note, however, that gutter guards can't stop all debris from entering your gutters.  

4. Check for overflowing gutters

Gutters should be able to handle the amount of water they are designed for. If your gutters are overflowing, it could be due to clogs or an improperly sloped gutter. Clear the clog and make sure the slope allows the water to drain properly. Also, check any downspouts and elbows to make sure they aren't blocked. When water backs up, it can cause serious damage to your home's structure.

Maintaining your gutters is essential for protecting your home from water damage due to overflowing or clogged gutters. By following the above gutter maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your gutters are working properly and keep costly repairs at bay. Don't forget to call a professional if needed for any repairs or maintenance tasks. With regular checks and maintenance, your gutters will be able to do their job effectively for years to come.

8 Easy Ways To Add Comfort And Style To Your Living Room

It’s every homeowner’s dream to have a living room that feels comfortable, warm, and welcoming. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize this dream. If this has been your dream and you don’t know where to start, this article provides sure ways to add comfort and style to your living room.

1. Incorporate A Comfy Area Rug

Adding a high-quality area rug is one way to welcome comfort and style into your home. There are different area rugs on the market to suit different home themes. These rugs come in different textures, dimensions, and colours. They’re also easy to clean; hence they don’t require much maintenance. However, if it’s your first time investing in an area rug, consider reading this guide to learn how to take care of and maintain it for a more extended service period.

Consider your home’s colour theme when choosing an area rug to avoid colour conflict. It’d be best to consider the texture and material to select the most durable rug.

2. Embrace Two-Tone Walls

Do you know you can add style to your home by embracing two-tone walls? Typical homes use one colour theme on the walls. However, painting a set of walls with calm and warm colours can elevate your space’s style in a way you might have never thought of.

As for the other set, you can use a different complementary colour to have two different themes in a single room. Another way to take advantage of two colours in a room is to create an accent wall by painting one with darker paint. However, you should avoid painting the entire room dark to avoid making your space appear dull.

3. Incorporate Some Shine

Copper and brass work better with dark walls. When using these colours to add style to your space, consider adding a bit of sparkle on throw pillows and picture frames. If you’re more into adding shine to your home, settle for wallpaper or curtains with a metallic element.

4. Add Some Fragrance

Adding fragrance to your space can also make it feel comfortable. Fortunately, you can easily access the fragrance of your choice and make your home a small haven. Suppose you want your home to smell natural. In that case, you can create your ideal fragrance at home. How? You wonder. It’s simple. Herbs perform an excellent job of creating exceptional aromas. For example, you can mix traditional herbs, essential oils, and lemon peels to develop a unique fragrance.  

5. Introduce Smooth Shapes And Rounded Ends

Unlike sharp, straight edges, having smooth rounded shapes result in an inviting, comfy feel. As far as introducing rounded edges to your room is concerned, you can begin by investing in round coffee, dining, and side tables. Having such furniture can help make the space feel welcoming. You might also want to consider modular furniture as an option. Modular furniture allows for customizable and easy-to-assemble solutions that adapt to your needs, making it ideal for creating a flexible and personalized living area.  

6. Invest In Comfortable Oversized Ottomans

Incorporating oversized ottomans into your living room welcomes comfort and style. These goodies are ideal for elevating your legs after a long working day. Some homeowners use ottomans as an alternative for coffee tables.

If you have room for an extra table, consider bringing in an ottoman. They’re ideal for placing TV remotes and magazines and are also excellent side tables.

7. Let There Be Light

Regardless of how far you go with your living room decoration, the space will remain dull without adequate lighting. Some living rooms look better with more lighting and less decoration. Suppose you have a large room. You can go a step further to add a new window or two to brighten your space as much as possible.

The first rule of introducing light into your space is ensuring the room receives as much natural light as possible. Next, incorporate artificial lighting. Currently, you can find all sorts of lighting fixtures to fit your space and elevate its style. Don’t allow your living room to appear dull when all you need is lighting up the space.

8. Don’t Ignore Throws

Throws are great for making a room feel comfy and warm. From throw pillows to blankets, elevate your living room style with colourful items. They create a welcoming feeling, and their presence reveals that anyone can lift their feet on the couch and relax.

Conclusion

There are many ways to make a living room comfortable and warm. The list is endless, from investing in high-quality area rugs and rounded-edged furniture to incorporating some shine. You just have to match your style or home’s theme to the comfort that you want to achieve. 

If you’re looking forward to elevating your home’s comfort and style, consider the above-discussed tips to help and guide you.