Planning a Successful Kitchen Remodel: 6 Must-Take Steps

Do you think that it might be time for your kitchen to get a makeover? If so, you're not alone. A kitchen remodel is one of the most popular home improvement projects undertaken by homeowners. But if you're not careful, it can also be one of the most expensive and frustrating projects you'll ever undertake. In this blog post, we will take you through six must-take steps to planning a successful kitchen remodel!

Kitchen remodel - Everything you should do to ensure a positive experience

If you're thinking of remodeling your kitchen, it's important to plan ahead. This will help make sure the project goes as smoothly as possible and that you don't spend too much money. Essentially, you would want to make sure you are fully in control over the process; whether you need to choose stunning lumber for your kitchen, or you need to find the right contractor for the job. If you are planning on remodeling your kitchen, you will need to understand everything that goes into the process, as well as the time you will need to complete it. Time, money, and effort are all important factors to think about when planning your kitchen remodel. 

#1 Establish a budget

Before you begin tearing out cabinets and selecting new countertops, there are a few things you need to do in order to set yourself up for success. First, you need to establish a budget. How much can you realistically afford to spend on your kitchen remodel? This number will determine the scope of your project and help keep you on track Secondly, you need to determine what you want to achieve with your kitchen remodel. Are you looking to create more storage space? Do you want to update the appliances? This will help make sure that your contractor understands your vision and can work within your budget.

#2 What are your goals?

Next, you need to decide what your goals are for your kitchen remodel. What do you hope to accomplish? Are you looking to create more storage space? Update your appliances? Change the layout of your kitchen? Once you know what your goals are, you can begin to narrow down your choices and make decisions about what changes need to be made. Finally, make sure you are realistic about the timeline for your kitchen remodel. Depending on the scope of the project, a kitchen remodel can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Make sure you factor in time for design, permits, construction, and punch list items.

#3 Take details into account

Now it's time to start considering the details of your remodel. What kind of cabinets do you want? What type of countertops? What style of flooring? These are all important decisions that will impact the overall look and feel of your new kitchen. Take your time in choosing each element, and don't be afraid to consult with a professional if you're unsure about something.

#4 Think about practicalities

It's also important to think about the practicalities of your kitchen remodel. Will your new layout work well for the way you cook and entertain? Is there enough storage space? Is there adequate lighting? These are all things that need to be taken into account before moving forward with your kitchen remodeling project. Finally, you need to find the right contractor. This is someone who will be responsible for making your vision a reality, so it's important to take your time in finding someone you trust. Get referrals from friends and family, and be sure to interview multiple contractors before making your final decision.

#5 Create a timeline

You need to think about your timeline. When do you want to have the remodeling completed? What kind of timeframe are you working with? Keep in mind that a kitchen remodel can be a lengthy and disruptive process, so it's important to plan accordingly. Moreover, you need to make sure that your contractor is aware of your timeline and can work within it.

#6 Plan out some delays and unexpecting expenses

Finally, you need to plan for some delays and unexpected expenses. No project ever goes perfectly according to plan, so it's important to have a little buffer in your budget for things that might come up. With a little careful planning, you can avoid many of the common pitfalls associated with kitchen remodels and set yourself up for success!

A kitchen remodel can be a daunting task, but if you take the time to plan ahead, you can ensure a successful outcome. By establishing a budget, setting goals, and taking details into account, you can create a blueprint for your dream kitchen. Additionally, it's important to think about the practicalities of your project and find the right contractor to bring your vision to life. By following these six steps, you can make sure that your kitchen remodel is a success!

6 Things You Should Check Before Buying a New Home

Are you in the market for a new home? If so, it's important to do your research before making any decisions. There are a number of things you should check before buying a new home, including the price, location, and property condition. In this blog post, we will discuss six different things you should check before buying a new home. Stay tuned for more information!

Price

Of course, one of the most important things to consider before buying a new home is the price. You need to make sure that you can afford the monthly mortgage payments, as well as any other associated costs. It's also important to consider the long-term cost of ownership when making your decision. The best way to do this is to speak with a real estate agent or financial advisor. They should be able to help you understand the true cost of ownership, as well as any potential risks associated with the purchase. In addition, they can also help you understand the current market conditions in your area.

Location

Another important thing to consider before buying a new home is the location. You need to think about things like the commute to work, the quality of schools in the area, and the overall safety of the neighborhood. These are all important factors that can impact your quality of life. In addition, the location of your home can also impact its resale value. So, if you think you may want to sell in the future, it's important to choose a location that will be attractive to potential buyers.

Past Sales History

Did you know that you can get a copy of the past sales history for any home you're considering? As seen in Edmonton multi-family listings, you can find this information if you request it from the seller or their agent. This information can be very valuable, as it can give you an idea of how much the home has sold for in the past. It can also give you an idea of how long it's been on the market, and how often it has been listed. This information can help you understand the true value of the home, as well as the potential risks associated with the purchase. This information can be very helpful when deciding whether or not to make an offer on a particular property.

Property Condition

When you're considering buying a new home, it's important to take the property condition into account. This includes things like the condition of the foundation, the roof, and the overall condition of the interior and exterior of the home. If you're buying an older home, it's especially important to have a professional inspector take a look at it before making an offer. They can determine if there are any major problems that need to be addressed, and they can also give you an estimate of the cost of repairs. With this information in mind, you can decide if the home is a good investment, or if you should look elsewhere.

Heating And Cooling Systems

Another important thing to consider before buying a new home is the condition of the heating and cooling systems. These are two of the most important systems in your home, and they can be very expensive to repair or replace. If you're buying an older home, it's a good idea to have the systems inspected by a professional. You may also want to ask the seller if they would be willing to repair or replace the systems before you close on the sale. On the other hand, if you're considering a new home, you should ask about the warranty on the heating and cooling systems. Most new homes come with a warranty on the major systems, but it's always a good idea to double-check.

Neighborhood

Finally, one of the most important things to consider before buying a new home is the neighborhood. Take some time to drive around the area, and get a feel for the community. Talk to the neighbors, and see if they're happy with the area. In addition, you should also check out the local schools, parks, and other amenities. These are all important factors that can impact your quality of life. If you're not happy with the neighborhood, it's probably not the right place for you.

These are just a few of the things you should consider before buying a new home. With this information in mind, you can be sure to make the best decision for your needs. Remember, there's no rush to buy a new home. Take your time, and do your research before making any decisions. You'll be glad you did!

5 Plants Poisonous To Dogs

Dogs are incredibly charming creatures that provide the companionship that so many of us enjoy in our lives. They can be the perfect addition to any family and encourage many to spend more time outdoors. 

However, our four-legged companions are far more inclined to take a bits on something that they are unfamiliar with. There are a surprising number of plant species that can lead to severe reactions in most dogs. 

Make sure you steer clear of the following plants when you are walking your dog, as they can be highly poisonous if they are consumed. 

Tulips

Although the flower itself isn’t the most toxic, your dog can become unwell if they dig up tulip bulbs. They can suffer from an upset stomach if they eat the leaves, but the bulbs have a high amount of toxins in. 

If your dog eats too much of this plant, they can become unwell. In some cases, they will vomit and suffer from a skin irritation. This is especially true in dog breeds that are more prone to allergies, such as poodles or poodle mix breeds. 

Similarly, you should not let your dog eat the bulbs of daffodils. These can also be highly toxic. Although they are highly decorative flowers that represent the beginning of spring and new life, it is important to avoid planting these in your backyard if your dog is likely to eat them. 

Azalea

Another plant that can be seen in many backyards is the azalea plant. The flowers can be highly toxic to dogs if they are eaten. It is recommended that you avoid all parts of this plant, because the consequences can be fatal if too much is eaten by your dog. 

Some symptoms that your dog can experience include breathing difficulties, nausea, and stomach issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. Eating azaleas in excess can also contribute to a drop in your dog’s blood pressure, and it is important to avoid these when possible. 

Hostas

It can be tempting to plant these shade-loving plants in your backyard in time for the warmer weather, but hostas can be highly poisonous if your dog eats any part of the plant. Similar to other plants, your dog is likely to suffer with diarrhea and vomiting if they have eaten hostas. 

For more information, such as are hostas poisonous to dogs, check this out. Some of the compounds found in hostas are similar to the key ingredients in soap and household cleaning products. A thick foam is created in your dog’s stomach, which can block and potentially paralyze the intestinal tract. 

Philodendrons

The heart-shaped leaves of the philodendron plant can make it seem harmless, but it can be highly poisonous for your canine companion to consume. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate your dog’s mouth and gums. If you have philodendrons, make sure to keep it out of reach for your dog. 

This can help you avoid a trip to the vets. Signs that your dog is suffering after eating philodendron leaves include retching, pawing at their mouth, and excessive drooling. Although they are houseplants, some people plant philodendrons in their backyard. This can make your dog want to investigate, and it is important that you don’t let their curiosity win in this instance. 

Cyclamens

Finally, cyclamens are highly decorative flowers that are popular houseplants during the winter. However, these bright plants can be incredibly harmful to your dog. Try to avoid cyclamens in order to protect them. 

Signs that your dog is suffering after consuming these flowers include excessive diarrhea and vomiting. If they eat the roots, their heart rate can also be affected as a result. The consequences can be fatal if too much is eaten, and it is crucial that you keep a close eye on your dog when you are walking them to avoid letting them eat cyclamens. 

Summary

If you think that your dog has eaten any of the plants above and they are suffering as a result, make sure you phone your vet. This can help them to figure out what could have caused this reaction in your dog’s body, and to decide on the most appropriate treatment method. 

Unfortunately, some of the plants that are the most toxic for your canine companion are the most decorative. It is, however, important to avoid introducing these into your backyard if possible. Similarly, you should make sure that your dog is not caught eating any of the plants above in the future.

Guest Contributor: Violette Butterworth

Technology in the Bathroom for Ultimate Luxury

People always dreamed of being in the future where their home would be “smart” enough to make life more convenient. Novels and other forms of media have painted that picture in the sci-fi genre too.

Can you imagine it? The moment you wake up and step into the bathroom, it takes a word of command to turn on the lights. The bathroom, equipped with smart technology, will update you on the news and traffic through a TV. All the while, it releases the perfect temperature of water for your bath.

It may sound like something from the distant future but it’s more accessible than you think. Smart technology is starting to become common in the U.S. This is because manufacturers are making it more accessible to a larger population.

Now, even the average millennial may start remodeling their bathroom to include smart appliances! We’ve categorized the different appliances per function below.

1. Smart Appliances for Health

The pandemic has taught us how important it is to take care of our health through proper hygiene. We were told to wash our hands frequently to avoid the spread of bacteria. And that’s because we make contact with different surfaces.

Smart technology will help make things easier and perhaps more effective.

For example, a touchless toilet that lets you raise or lower the lid with just a wave of your hand. The motion sensor can even tell if you want to flush the toilet. In addition, this appliance has self-cleaning and self-deodorizing features. 

You can also equip antimicrobial seats on them. Toilets are one of the dirtiest parts of a bathroom but smart technology will ensure that it’s properly cleaned. A little luxurious feature is that they also have built-in seat warmers.

The smart bathroom mat is also an excellent choice. It can tell you your weight and body-mass index (BMI). It also gives you health insights like what kind of exercise you should do. All of this information is sent to your mobile app and isn't displayed on the mat itself.

Finally, we suggest soaking tubs. Yes, there is the classic soaking tub but we now have smart luxury tubs where you can have Alexa diffuse essential oils. Soaking tubs are known for their health benefits.

They can improve your circulation and reduce anxiety among many others. It’s a good balance of mental and physical health! If you’re a bride preparing for her wedding day, this treatment can be good for you. You’ll radiate and glow as you receive your wedding day diamonds.

2. Smart Appliances for Convenience

Technology was supposed to make life easier and it has continued to do so for decades. The appliances below will give you more of that futuristic feel and save you lots of time and effort.

Do you like looking at the mirror at the start of the day? Wash your face and then yourself out for any undesirable blemishes? Or admire your outfit before heading out?

 A smart mirror is a handy device to have in the bathroom. It can give you the day’s weather forecast. Do you need news updates before heading out? It has that too! And one of the most crucial updates for someone working is the traffic updates.

Not only can you admire your jewelry having the best lab created diamonds, but you can also use it to keep up to date for the day. Mirrors have come a long way. Their use was limited to keeping an eye on one’s appearance and making sure you were brushing your teeth properly. But they’ve evolved into smart appliances.

The other appliance is the cooled cabinetry. If you have medications and remedies that need to be kept at a certain temperature, this appliance is a good choice. It saves your kitchen refrigerator space too. You won’t need to walk to the kitchen just to get your medications.

Lastly, what’s luxury without voice-activated lighting for your bathroom? This appliance can change your mirror’s lighting to office lighting mode so your makeup will be perfect for work. You can also activate it as a wayfinding nightlight to save your toe from painfully hitting corners.

3. Smart Appliances for Comfort

How your day starts and ends have a big impact on your performance the following day. Being comfortable when you need it can go a long way. You can afford luxurious comfort in your own home with these appliances below.

The first one is a warming drawer. It can heat your towels so you’ll be toasty after a bath. It’s like having your luxury spa at home! Maybe you’d consider having a massage chair while you’re at it.

You can also have a smart shower. It can warm the water just right before you take a bath. Why withstand blasts of hot or cold water while adjusting the temperature? The smart shower will save you the hassle.

4. Smart Appliances for Entertainment

What’s a better pair for a luxurious soak in the bathroom than some entertainment? You can enjoy your time in the bathtub with a waterproof TV so you can stream your movies and shows. You will no longer fear dropping your iPad into the tub.

If you love listening to music, some Bluetooth speakers will enhance your spa-like experience. They’re now available as battery-powered and waterproof units. They’re easily hidden and connected to any of your favorite streaming services.

And the last addition to your spa-like bathroom experience is an oil diffuser. They’ve started to become more popular because of their health benefits. You can set a schedule for when you want it to turn off and on. You can also decide how much mist it should diffuse—all through voice command.

Conclusion

Efficiency, comfort, and health are increasingly becoming the main concern of consumers. And technology has delivered. Your bathroom can become your private spa!

Because of the pandemic, health concerns have become a priority. That’s why appliances like touchless toilets that can clean themselves have been increasingly popular. They also have many other luxurious and convenient features.

Meanwhile, warming drawers and smart showers can make your life more comfortable and help you relieve stress from work. Not only will your shower be at a perfect temperature, but you’ll be toasty with a warm towel.

Having voice-activated lighting and a smart mirror can make your days more convenient too. No more groping for the lights while half-asleep. Neither will you have to check your phone during breakfast for any news or traffic updates.

For a relaxing bathroom experience, you can install entertainment systems in your bathroom. These include a waterproof TV and Bluetooth speakers. 

All these will contribute to the ultimate luxury that you deserve!

Guest Contributor: Samuel Darwin

How To Choose the Best Concrete for Your Home Construction Project?

In today’s age, nobody can overlook the role of concrete. Most of the structures that we see around are made of concrete and therefore, it is considered one of the primary construction components.

Whether you are interested in building driveways, patios, or any other concrete service, your first and foremost task is to find reputed and experienced concreters who can understand the job and deliver the quality work you are looking for. If you want that your concrete work gets done the right way, you should make sure to hire the right professional for this job. Here, in this content, you will come to know about some useful tips following which you can make the right decision.

Tips To Choose the Best Concreters

If you are planning to hire suitable concreters for your concrete projects recently, then here are a few tips which can help you choose the best professional for serving you:

#1. Must have good communication skills

Professional concreters must establish communication with on-site workers such as plumbers, builders, steel suppliers, concrete plants, truck drivers, and clients. These professional experts must have good communication skills. This helps to save both time and money. Besides this, it is also important to make sure that they should give you the right estimation, explain the entire process about how the work will take place, and provide fair reasons for why you should consider concreting your home.

#2. Must have the capability to delegate a task

A concreter must know how to delegate a task. As any home improvement project is teamwork, it requires proper collaboration among team members. The professional must know how to efficiently distribute work and accomplish the job within a stipulated time frame. He must be active, alert, and must know everything about the site project.

#3. Must have the capability to think ahead

A professional concreter must have the ability to think ahead. Before starting a home improvement project, he should have an idea about how the finished work will look? Who is providing the color? What is the weather condition? A professional concreter should be aware of the season as well. He should have complete knowledge on when concrete can dry up quickly and when it will take time. He must know the types as well as layers of concreting which is considered vital for any building structure.

#4. Must understand the plans for building heights and levels

To become competent concreters, one does not need to be a certified surveyor or a draft person. Professional concreters must have a good understanding of building plans, both architectural and engineering. When choosing a professional concreter for your home improvement project, make sure he possesses knowledge about building plans.

#5. Must have a good physique

Professional concreters must have a great physique. Without a great physique, the professional would not be able to deliver the quality work you are looking for. That is why you must choose to hire concreter professional where the team members would be fit and strong enough to work on your projects.

#6. Must have great organizational capability

An ideal and professional worker with concrete should be organized in the first place. They must always try their best to accomplish the work within the given deadline as a part of their professionalism.

#7. Must have great patience

Professional concreters have great patience as there are many tasks where patience is required to accomplish the entire job on time. There are also various clients who have different requirements. They should know how to handle these issues the right way and explain the facts. Apart from this, a lot of patience is required in the fieldwork where one has to look over the working team, provide regular updates of their tasks, and most importantly, look towards the well being of the workers and the hiring parties at the same time.

#8. Must have many years of experience

When choosing the best concreters, make sure he must hold many years of experience in the field. During construction work, there might be various challenges where the professional has to take part actively and take quick decisions.  If you hire the right professional with proper experiences in the field work, he would exactly know how to deal with such challenges and keep the work going.

Conclusion

Therefore, these are some of the important qualities that you should take into consideration while choosing the best concreter for your home improvement project. Besides the above points, you should also remember the fact that an experienced worker will always possesses knowledge in layering, shaping, cutting, using towels, smoothing, etc. Before choosing the right professional concrete team, you need to make sure that they expertise in all the above sectors!

Guest Contributor: Joseph Webb

Easy Home DIY Projects for Beginners

Who does not love a beautiful and decorated home? Everyone wants their home to reflect their personality and beauty. But not everyone can afford to remodel their houses and do bathroom home improvements or kitchen home improvements every once in a while. The amount of money spent on upgrading the decor of even a single room is quite much. Cryptocurrency has now solved this problem. Users can buy Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency and pay online for anything they want. Although cryptocurrency provides you with the ease of buying things online without cash, it is still a hassle to keep buying new and trendy stuff frequently.

People often buy home decor accessories and furniture from stores and put them in their homes without even thinking about their appearance and harmony with their rooms. But these days, DIY projects are going viral on the internet, and people are taking inspiration from them. These easy DIY projects are uncomplicated, affordable, and totally doable. 

You can choose the projects that go with your style and likeness. You don't have to worry about limited options, long lines, and low budgets. DIY projects have entirely transformed the decor industry, and they may do the same for you.

Here are a few easy DIY home decor projects that will make your place shine.

·       Add Wallpaper to your Walls:

Wallpaper adds a pop of color and pattern to your room elegantly that paint can’t always match. It also adds a texture to your space that will refresh the vibe of your home. The new peel and stick wallpapers make the work so easy. All you have to do is measure the width and length of your walls and multiply those amounts to determine the wall's square footage. For every door or large window, deduct 10 square feet. Professionals recommend ordering an extra roll or box in the same dye lot if your selected wallpaper contains a pattern, depending on the size of the design.

·       Paint the Front Door:

A painted front door always adds a bright greeting to your home. Before painting, you should remove the door from its hinges. As part of the preparation, sand, wash, and dry the surface. Remove any doorknobs and hinges, as well as any glass panes.

Apply primer or paint that doubles as a primer. Allow for drying time between coats as it will most likely require two coats. Replace the hardware and reconnect your home once the last coat has dried.

·       Hang Small Plants from Ceiling:

This easy DIY project is no task at all, and it will not only enhance the beauty of your home and add greenery and freshness, but it will also provide oxygen and is suitable for your health. Choose a spot where the plants will get enough sunlight.  Use a swag bolt to fasten to a stud or beam or a toggle bolt to secure to drywall. Make sure the bolt capacity is adequate for the weight of your plant plus its container when it is hanging. Once the bolts are connected in the place, hang your small plants or even fake flower pots to add to the beauty of the place.

·       Frame a Mirror:

Want a creative solution for your basic mirrors? Try this easy DIY project. Frame a mirror using minor art supplies and create a luxury frame for your mirror. Measure the length of your mirror and purchase the material according to it. You can choose any material or accessories as per your liking. Use silicone glue to make a good bond between the material and the mirror. However, you can add a nail at a corner for additional security. Make sure the joints are adequately concealed. You can further paint or stain the mirror corners if you want. Hang the mirror on a nice spot and enjoy a fresh new look.

·       Enhance the Outdoor Space with Solar Lights:

 Your yard, sidewalk, or driveway will look startling with this easy DIY home decor project. Since solar lights require no wiring or electricity input, they won’t take a toll on your electricity bill. These solar lights come in many shapes, styles, and colors. Choose the ones that compliment your outdoor space. Place these lights at a distance of six to eight feet each and see the magic, bright and beautiful outdoors bring to your house.

·       Build a Raised Garden Bed:

This DIY project is fun because you can do it with your kids. Choose a location and plan the size and footprint of your raised bed; 3 feet wide allows gardeners to reach over effortlessly. The majority of them stand between 12 and 20 inches tall. You can use water-resistant material such as concrete blocks or landscape timber. These raised beds make it easier for us to grow vegetables and flowers.

Once you have attached the corners, add good soil and plant the seeds. Raised garden beds lose moisture faster than in-ground gardens; hence you will have to mulch the beds in order to retain the moisture.

Guest Contributor: Roman Holovin

5 Spring Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Spring is finally here and it’s time to start spring cleaning! It’s easy to throw in plumbing maintenance when it comes time to spring clean to ensure that your plumbing is working and there are no leaks.

Outdoor Faucets:

These are the most important to check due to the fact that it could have possibly froze over with the cold winter weather. It is also very important to check because we often overlook our outdoor faucets since we don’t use them as often as our indoor plumbing. Usually, the problem is a washer that needs to be replaced, so there’s no need to worry if you see a leak. However, if there is a leak, you should inspect it and repair it immediately, or call a plumber to assess the issue. It is important to take care of it promptly to avoid wasting water and racking up your water bill. Sometimes, your faucets need to be completely replaced or repaired, and if you’re not comfortable changing it yourself, make sure to contact a plumber to help.

Toilets:

Many times we notice our toilets breaking right away, but have you heard it run for longer than usual lately? Do you have to “wiggle” the handle to get it to fill up the toilet bowl, or to get it to stop running? That’s a huge indicator that your toilet needs to be serviced. There are many things that can cause your toilet to run, but most of the time it’s a quick easy fix. You can try the “blue dye” test to see if the flapper is leaking by putting a few drops of blue food coloring into the toilet tank, waiting 20-30 minutes without flushing it, and then looking into the bowl after the 20-30 minutes is up. If there is blue food coloring in the toilet bowl, that indicates a flapper leak. On the other hand, if your toilet won’t fill up or doesn't flush, you may need your toilet rodded out to get rid of a clog in the drain. We do not recommend trying to unclog your toilet drains yourself, you can make the clog worse. We recommend a plumber comes out and rods the toilet with a rodding machine.

Water Heater:

Did you know that the average lifespan of a water heater is 10 years? After 10 years, you run the risk of problems such as leaks, bad control valves and it completely breaking down, resulting in no hot water for you. If you know your water heater is coming up to the end of its lifespan, you should regularly maintenance the water heater and keep inspecting it closely to prevent it from completely breaking down on you, and leaving you with no hot water. We recommend replacing the water heater before the 10 years is up to prevent last minute emergencies.

Sink Drains:

This is one of those things that you will notice when it’s clogged or broken, but it is recommended to check on it from time to time to prevent clogs. The sink trap is underneath your sink, and it is curved, which most people tend to forget about. Since there is a bend in it, it could make it difficult for people who aren’t educated to unclog it or rod it out with average tools from the hardware store. If there is a clog, or a bad smell coming from your drain, it is time to call for maintenance.

Shower Head:

Are you behind on keeping up with cleaning your shower head? Make sure you are regularly cleaning the shower head to ensure you are getting the best amount of flow from the head as possible. Over time mineral deposits build up on the head, and clog the holes. This is a simple fix, you can take your shower head off and soak it in white vinegar to dissolve all of the deposit off. Leave it sit for 15-25 minutes depending on how bad it is, and then wash the vinegar off with warm water, and you’re good to go again!

You should always check on your plumbing fixtures, but it’s even more important to check them as the weather is warming up incase of leaking that could have happened from winter weather damage. When in doubt, call a plumber and have them come out to look at your entire house and all of your fixtures to make sure everything is in good working condition.

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

Home Projects to Take on for the Year 2022

You don’t need to wait until it’s time to sell your home to give it a facelift. With a few upgrades here and there, you can start enjoying spending more time at home. However, it’s of great necessity to understand that not all home improvements might enhance the value of your home or even make it more comfortable. Here are the five home projects to take on for the year 2022.

Garage Door Replacement

Would you like to get cashback on your home investment? Then it would be best if you worked on replacing the garage door. It’s the surest way to earn cash back on your investment when letting go of your landed property.

It’s imperative to know the amount of money you’re likely to spend on this project. Think about the cost of removing your current garage door and then replacing it heavy-duty with four-section doors.

While this home project is vital, you might not be able to do it independently. Therefore, consider hiring trusted contractors in your area to help you with this critical project. Once done, you won’t believe the number of potential buyers your home will attract.

Landscaping

You need a few dollars to spend on landscaping so that your home looks more valuable than it currently is. Curb appeal is one of the most important things for selling a home. Your home will look more than just fresh and appealing with new landscaping designs.

When an interested buyer comes to view your homes, the aesthetic impression of the back and front of your home is what they’ll see first. Therefore, to make the best first impression, you need to focus on landscaping.

You don’t need to dole out huge sums of money. But still, you must ensure that the lines are clean and perfectly trimmed. Otherwise, your efforts to make your property look better will only hit a dead end.

Bathroom Remodeling

You need to also focus on working on your bathroom. Most modern buyers want their bathrooms to look great. Otherwise, they’ll feel that your property is old and updated. Therefore, to attract many potential buyers, update your bedroom before listing it.

Focus on shower pan, flooring, lighting, and anything about having a luxurious bath or shower. Instead of using guesswork, consider a total overhaul, which can also save you a lot of money in the long run.

If you start with a clean slate and upgrade the entire bathroom, you’ll be sure that nothing is left out. Therefore, go ahead and get started, and be sure to only work with trusted interior designers.

Paint The Walls

No matter how old your property is, you need to ensure that the next owner is getting a clean and fresh space when selling it. Most of them won’t be happy if the walls look dull and dirty. The good thing about this project is that you can do it independently.

Look at the interior walls of your house and consider the best paints that can match the overall décor or the property. For instance, if your home is in a shady neighborhood, you can do with bright colors on the living room walls.

You need to think about unique paint color for the focal point as you paint. This is the area your guests see first when they step into your house. You can give it a slightly different but welcoming paint.

Let there be Light

This is another home project that’ll give you ROI in 2022. According to home renovations in Washington DC, your home can only look happy if it lets in Natural Light. There’s no problem if you don’t know where to start.

Consider the position of the sun and how it moves throughout the day. It would be great to position the windows to let in a few morning sun rays into the living room of the balcony of your house.

You can have windows in opposite directions so that there’s enough light coming into the house in the morning and evening. Most buyers want to buy happy homes, and nothing makes a home happy more than natural Light.

Conclusion

With these home projects, you can ensure that your property will attract many potential buyers. Some of them might cost a lot of money, but you can be sure that you’ll earn cashback once the property is sold.

Guest Contributor: McKenzie Jones

5 Ways A Tiny Home is Perfect for Those Living Minimal

Are you a minimalist? If so, then living in a tiny home is for you. Minimalism is going through a bit of a renaissance right now as more and more people realize that having the space to pursue our passions, work on our projects, and be is the best way to live. A small home allows you to find this balance much more accessible than a large house that tries to accommodate every need. You can have everything you need within your walls, rather than having to drive miles and miles in search of supplies or rent space elsewhere. This is also a great choice if your neighborhood isn't very friendly towards mobile homes or prevents people from visiting unannounced.

1. Utilize Resources

Spend less building square footage and more on creating livable and functional spaces. A small home allows for less clutter and saving on building costs. You'll also be able to use the space you have more efficiently. It is also ideal for escaping the emptiness that would otherwise be in a bigger house.

2. Right Proportions for Partitions

A tiny house is not just a bedroom on wheels. It should reflect the same level of functionality as a full-sized house. A bedroom should fit a bedroom, a studio should fit a studio, and a 1/2 home should provide a 1/2 place. When trying to find the perfect space for your tiny house, keep in mind that it is not the space that is the problem. It is the layout. A bedroom has a set routine, from how the bed is made to what articles of furniture are used for storage. You can research things such as choosing the right little house design, how to build a tiny house on a budget, and more.

3. Walk-in Closets

While a bedroom should have a complete set of clothes to wear when sleeping, a closet should be kept as bare as possible. While walk-in closets are often associated with high-end homes and fancy interiors, they also make great options for a tiny home. A walk-in closet is perfect for a tiny house with minimal floorplan requirements.

4. Create an Interior Decoration That Works for You!

No matter which style of home you choose, it is essential to make an effort to bring your style into the design. White walls, white doors, and classic furniture are all options you should consider. If you feel a little more spontaneous, a color scheme that includes a few bolder furniture pieces, such as a sectional sofa or a bed with a high headboard, would suit you well. Remember, your tiny home should feel like a home away from home. Whether you choose to make your home in a small house or a studio apartment, an exciting and cozy room is crucial for the home's décor.

5. Easy to Clean Surfaces

Tiny houses often have small kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms. These spaces are often the most difficult to clean. This is because tiny house dwellers constantly move around the house, and dirt and dust accumulate quickly. To make cleaning easier, small house dwellers should choose surfaces that are easy to clean. This means selecting resistant materials to dirt and dust build-up, such as tiled or hardwood floors.

Conclusion

If you love minimalism but find it challenging to fit everything you want into a small space, a tiny home might be just the thing for you. The benefits of living in a tiny home are many — not the least of which will allow you to save money by not spending as much on utilities and other living costs as you would in a larger home. A smaller house also makes it much easier to entertain friends and family when you want to stay inside while they cook or play music outside. It is easy to decorate a tiny house, and it will allow you to save money by not having to spend as much on utilities and other living costs as you would in a larger home.

Guest Contributor: Hannah Boothe

Major House Repairs You Should Consider to Preserve the Value of Your Property

It's no secret that regular maintenance and repairs are key to preserving the value of your property. But what are some of the most important repairs you should consider? Here is a list of the top major house repairs that can help protect your investment and keep your home in great condition.

Focus on your roof

One of the best things you can do to preserve the value of your property is to focus on your roof. Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, and it's also one of the most expensive to repair or replace. That's why it's so important to keep an eye on your roof and make sure it's in good condition. The seasoned providers of roof services behind Vista Roofing suggest that if you see any damage, make sure to have it repaired as soon as possible. This way, you can avoid more extensive and expensive repairs down the road.

Pay close attention to your foundation

The foundation of your property is another key element that you need to pay close attention to. Cracks in your foundation can lead to several problems, including water damage, mold, and even structural instability. If you see any cracks in your foundation, make sure to have them repaired as soon as possible. You should also make sure that your gutters are clean and in good working order, as clogged gutters can also lead to foundation problems.

Kitchen and bath upgrades

If you want to add value to your home, kitchen and bath upgrades are always a great option. These types of upgrades can be relatively inexpensive, but they can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your property. If you're not sure where to start, try contacting a local kitchen and bath designer for some ideas.

Landscaping

Finally, don't forget about your landscaping. First impressions are everything, and the condition of your lawn and garden can say a lot about your property. If you want to make a good impression, make sure your landscaping is in top condition. This means regular maintenance, like mowing the lawn and trimming the hedges. It also means being proactive about problems, like addressing a pest infestation as soon as you see it. When you do, you'll be glad you took the time to preserve the value of your property.

Now that you know some of the most important repairs to focus on, it's time to get started. If you're not sure where to start, contact a local contractor or home improvement specialist for help. They can assess your property and make recommendations based on your specific needs. With their help, you can make the necessary repairs to preserve the value of your property and keep your home in great condition.

These are just a few of the major house repairs that you should consider to preserve the value of your property. By taking care of these key elements of your home, you can avoid more expensive problems down the road and keep your property in great condition. Rest assured that with a little bit of regular maintenance, your property will stay in great shape for years to come.