14 Tips for Home Improvement That Will Make Your House Look Like New!

You finally got moved into a new house, used professionals to get the job done, and now it’s time to tackle some home improvement projects on your new home. Maybe you used professionals to make your move easy, like Montway auto transport for your car shipping, and professional movers to make the long-distance packing and moving easier. 

Now that you’re in your new home, maybe you want to save some money and get your hands dirty on some great home improvement projects that will leave your house looking like new. If you're not sure where to start, here are a few helpful tips.

First, take a look around your new home and make a list of the projects you want to tackle. Once you've made your list, you can start to research the cost of each project and whether or not you need to hire a professional. 

For example, if you're planning on painting your kitchen, that's a project you can likely do on your own. However, if you're planning on gutting and remodeling your kitchen, that's a project you'll need to hire professionals for.

In addition to researching the cost of each project, it's also important to consider the timeline. Some home improvement projects can be completed relatively quickly, while others may take months or even years to complete. 

Finally, once you've made your list of projects and researched the cost and timeline for each one, it's time to start making some decisions. Once you have all the information you need, you can make an informed decision about which projects to tackle first. 

 Keep reading for 14 tips that will help you get started:

1. Start with a fresh coat of paint

Paint is one of the quickest and easiest ways to give any room in your house a facelift. When choosing paint colors, opt for light and neutral hues. Not only will they make your space appear larger and more airy, but they'll also be easier to match with existing furniture and décor.

2. Get rid of clutter

Clutter can make even the most well-appointed rooms look small and cramped. Take some time to go through each room in your house and get rid of anything you don't need or use anymore. Once you've decluttered, take things a step further by investing in some stylish storage solutions to help keep things organized.

3. Let in some light

Natural light has a way of making even the smallest spaces feel more open and inviting. If you're dealing with dark, dreary rooms, try hanging sheer curtains or adding reflective surfaces like mirrors to help brighten things up.

4. Update your hardware

One of the easiest ways to give your home a mini makeover is to simply swap out old hardware like doorknobs, cabinet pulls, and light fixtures for new ones. This is a relatively inexpensive project that can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your home.

5. Give your furniture a facelift

If you're tired of looking at the same old furniture day after day, there's no need to go out and buy all new pieces. Instead, try giving what you already have a fresh new look with a coat of paint or some new slipcovers. Even old tables can benefit from a sturdier, more contemporary table legs upgrade. The possibilities are endless if you let your creativity fly.

6. Add some greenery

Plants are not only beautiful, but they also help purify the air in your home—a major bonus if you live in an urban area where air pollution is common. Place plants near windows so they can get plenty of sunlight and water them regularly to keep them healthy (and looking their best).

7. Hang some artwork

Artwork is a great way to add personality to any room. If you don't want to spend a lot of money on pieces, try framing some of your favorite prints or posters. You can also get creative and make your own artwork using things like washi tape, fabric scraps, and old jewelry.

8. Change up your window treatments

Window treatments are another easy and affordable way to instantly transform the look of any room. If you don't like the curtains or blinds you currently have, try swapping them out for something new. You can even get creative and make your own window treatments using things like lace doilies or burlap sacks.

9. Add some colorful throw pillows

Throw pillows are an easy way to inject some color and personality into any room. They're also great for making your space more cozy and inviting. When shopping for throw pillows, look for ones that are made from durable fabrics like cotton or linen.

10. Swap out old lightbulbs

Old, yellowed lightbulbs can make even the nicest homes look dated and dingy. Give your place a fresh new look by swapping out those old bulbs for some new, energy-efficient ones. Not only will they make your home look better, but they'll also help you save money on your energy bill.

11. Wash your walls

Washing your walls may not seem like much, but it can make a huge difference in the overall appearance of your home. If your walls are looking particularly grimy, you may want to consider hiring a professional to clean them for you.

12. Clean your carpets

Carpets can accumulate a lot of dirt, dust, and other debris over time. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also be dangerous for your family if someone has allergies or asthma. To keep your carpets looking their best, vacuum them regularly and have them professionally cleaned every few months.

13. Polish your floors

Dull, lifeless floors can make even the nicest homes look drab. If your floors could use a little TLC, try polishing them with a high-quality floor polish. This will not only make them look better, but it will also help protect them from wear and tear.

14. Get ready for winter

There are a few simple things you can do to make your home cozy and ready for winter. 

First, take a look at your windows and doors. Make sure that they are properly sealed so that heat doesn't escape and cold drafts don't come in. You might also want to invest in some heavy curtains or blinds to help keep the heat in. 

Next, take a look at your heating system. If it's been a while since you've had it serviced, now is a good time to do that. You should also make sure that you have plenty of warm blankets on hand to snuggle up with when the temperature really starts to plummet. 

With just a few simple changes, you can transform your home into somewhere you're proud to show off—without breaking the bank! Give these 14 tips for budget-friendly home improvement a try today and see how quickly your house starts looking like new again.

Guest Contributor: Vanessa Paige

How to Rent a Retail Property for Your Business

How to Rent a Retail Property for Your Business

Whether you’re opening a new business, looking to expand into a bigger space, or ready to sign a new lease, locating retail space for lease requires careful research and skilled negotiations.

Making the right choice increases your chances of long-term success. However, if you go for a bargain-priced space, business may suffer. 

While shopping for new retail commercial space may appear similar to a residential rental, there are major differences. We’ll go into these further later in this article.

In the meantime, here’s the best place to begin your search for retail space for lease.

Determine Your Business Requirements

As you’re already aware, what works for one retail business won’t work for another. Therefore, you’ll need to determine the best location before you begin viewing rental spaces for lease.

• If you’re opening a bargain outlet, customers probably won’t mind going out of their way in search of a deal.

• If you’re selling five-figure entertainment systems or designer footwear, customers will expect you to be neighbors with similar businesses.

• Opening a franchise? Network with other franchise owners regarding space and location requirements.

If you’re expanding or relocating an existing business, consider your regular customers’ shopping habits. Will your new location be convenient to them? Doing this can help build loyalty, something particularly valuable in today’s shopping environment. 

Next, you’ll want to look at retail lease prices in the areas you’ve chosen, and determine what’s truly affordable in the long run.

Triple-Net Leases and Other Costs

If you’ve been searching for your first retail rental, you may have noticed the acronym NNN following a space’s square foot price. This isn’t an acronym: It’s short for “triple-net” lease. 

This means that you’ll be paying more than a basic, square foot rental rate. Your lease will probably contain some, or all, of the following costs:

• Property taxes are part of commercial real estate (CRE) ownership. A triple-net NNN lease will include your retail space’s share of these taxes. Since your landlord has no control over tax rates, this isn’t a negotiable number.

• Property insurance is another non-negotiable part of your lease. Depending on your business, you may need to provide proof of insurance to qualify for tenancy.

• Liability and worker’s compensation insurance, while usually not part of your rent, is still a requirement for a retail business. Your landlord may want to see proof of coverage.

The following costs may or may not be in your lease, as they’re usually limited to retail space within a multi-tenant building.

Upkeep of Communal Areas

CAM, or Common Area Maintenance, are fees charged to maintain shared or “common” spaces. Some examples include:

• Parking lots;

• Hallways;

• Landscaping; and

• Common-area restrooms

You may be able to negotiate your CAM fees, especially if your retail space is one of the smaller ones in the building, if your business is far away from the landscaping, or if you’re allowed fewer reserved parking spaces than others.

Utilities

Utility bills may also be a cost that’s not included in your base rental rate. Like a residential property, you’ll be paying for your retail space’s electrical, HVAC and water bills. 

Depending on your business, you may have other utility costs, such as:

• Specialized lighting for displays, especially if you’re opening a boutique-type business.

• Power-intensive fixtures, such as kitchen utilities within a cafe or restaurant.

Researching your future utility bills can be tricky, and you may have to depend on estimates. 

Now that we’ve reviewed costs that are included in most retail lease agreements, here are some additional costs to consider.

Preparing for Your Opening

While you may be lucky and find a retail space that requires minimal effort to make it your own, most will need some remodeling. This is called a build-out. 

Costs for a typical build-out are sometimes reimbursed by the landlord. This is done with a Tenant Improvement Allowance, or TIA. These are usually calculated on a square foot basis. 

Here’s an example: 

If you leased a 4,000 square foot retail space, and you negotiate a $20.00 per square foot improvement allowance, your landlord would agree to cover $80,000 of the costs of your build-out.

Keep in mind that you’ll pay the costs of the build-out when work is performed before you open for business. Ask your landlord if you can defer your initial rent payments until you’ve been open for business for a while. 

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by these costs and details? You may be best off working with a commercial real estate (CRE) broker.

Retail CRE Broker Benefits

First and foremost, a CRE broker spends 100% of their time negotiating leases for clients. This means that, when you decide to enlist the services of a broker, you’ll benefit from their experience.

Other reasons to work with a broker include:

• Local networking skills. This is especially important if you’re unfamiliar with your new neighborhood. A broker will be familiar with much more than the current market atmosphere. Brokers are often aware of future changes, such as the arrival of a new residential subdivision or major highway, that could bring more business your way.

• Networking connections. Brokers spend a big portion of their working hours with other retail tenants and their landlords. This means that a broker may know about the ideal retail space for your business before it hits the market. 

A savvy CRE broker will also refer you to local attorneys, contractors and businesses related to your own. 

Earlier in 2022, data showed that over 50% of consumers were comfortable returning to traditional, bricks-and-mortar retail stores. 

In addition, more retailers have found that adding services that enable consumers to pick up retail goods after ordering online have increased their profits.

Do your research, consider working with a CRE broker, and good luck finding your perfect retail space for lease in Illinois!

Nominate a Family for Thanksgiving

Nominate a Family!!!

The holidays for us are for giving back. Time and time again you guys show us so much love, so we like to pay it forward. We need to shower a family with love. Help me find a family that needs an extra blessing this Thanksgiving. Times are hard and we never know who is struggling. Please Email me about a family that needs us.

Nominations end: Wednesday, November 16th.

Email Nominations to: Rona@kevinszabojrplumbing.net

What Makes Rheem Hot Water System a Highly Popular Choice?

The importance of having access to hot water throughout the winter months cannot be overstated. In addition to its usage for bathing, it has a variety of other applications around the house. In such a situation, almost every house owner searches for the right way to enjoy the benefits of constant supply of hot water. Installation of Rheem hot water system will overall be a great choice.

There are lots and lots of benefits associated with this exclusive hot water system. Want to know about some of those benefits? Here they are:

The Rheem How Water System Saves on Energy

Day by day, human innovation is taking new turn. As a result, the time has come to bid goodbye to old traditional methods. The installation of tankless water heating system is gaining high popularity over traditional models.

One of the most remarkable conveniences associated with this particular newly introduced Rheem hot water system is none other than easy saving of energy. As the cost associated with energy with this new kit is much lower, people are on their ways to get the same installed in their homes.

It is a fact that heating of water accounts for a high percentage of average use of energy. In order to maintain a constant supply of hot water, conventional water heating systems necessitate the use of a significant amount of electrical power. As a result, people had to pay a good amount as electricity bill.

If you want to get rid of this hassle of paying a high amount of electricity, then it is high time to go with the installation of the best alternative. There are lots of options to go with but opting for Rheem hot water system will overall be a great decision. The implementation of this innovative solution will result in significant energy savings. Last but not least, the installation of this particular water heating system would assist in the reduction of over thirty percent of the monthly electricity expenditure.

Is Rheem Hot Water System Easy to Install?

Water heating system is day by day becoming a requirement instead of serving as a luxury. Hence, it is better to go with the one that is easy to install. You would surely find a lot of options available in the market but opting for Rheem hot water system will be overall a great decision.

Due to the fact that it has a low carrying capacity, the unit is simple to transport from one location to another. If you follow the steps in the instruction manual, putting in the same thing in the house won't be difficult. Still, taking help of a professional plumber will overall be a great decision. An expert touch will do wonders as the professional will be taking utmost care at the time of carrying out with the task of installation.

What Makes Rheem Hot Water System a Highly Convenient Choice?

Gone are those days when you were supposed to occupy a bigger space for getting the water heater system installed. With the introduction of the Rheem hot water system, you can say goodbye to the issue.

Making the best pick won't be as challenging as it used to be thanks to the abundance of accessible models in a wide range of configurations. Because the digital setting makes it possible to easily set the temperature, you will be able to configure it in a manner that is appropriate for your requirements.

In terms of fitting, you will be able to fit the same anywhere as per desire. It might be next to the bathtub, within the closet, or beneath the sink. The adaptable size of this newly introduced water heating device makes installation simple.

Constant Supply of Hot Water is Ensured

One more benefit of getting Rheem hot water system installed is that continuous supply of hot water is assured. During winter season, an irregular supply of hot water results in lots of inconveniences. If you have been facing this issue for long, then it is possible to avoid the same by going with the newly introduced water heating system.

As you will be getting hot water on demand, you need not worry about the breaking of supply of hot water as and when needed.

In conclusion, the installation of Rheem hot water system will overall seem to be a great decision. Approaching a reliable service provider to get the same installed will be a cost-effective solution. When are you getting one for your house?

4 Things To Think About Before Installing A Fireplace At Home

It’s the time of year when people start to think about installing fireplaces in their homes. And with good reason—a fireplace can add a lot of warmth and comfort to a home, not to mention the atmosphere. But before you run out and buy one, there are a few things you should think about. Here are four things to consider before installing a fireplace at home:

1. How Much Space do You Have

To install a fireplace, you need to have some space. How much space you need depends on the type of fireplace you want. If you want a traditional wood-burning fireplace, you’ll need a lot of space—at least six feet wide by six feet deep. But if you want a gas or electric fireplace, you’ll need less space.

So before you buy a fireplace, measure the space where you want to put it and ensure it will fit. Folks at Homelier Pro suggest checking local building codes and consulting a professional to ensure your fireplace is correctly installed. You don’t want to get all excited about your new fireplace only to find out that it won’t fit in your house.

2. Ventilation

Ventilation is the process of exchanging indoor air with outdoor air. It’s essential to have proper ventilation in your home because it helps keep you healthy and comfortable. Not only does it remove pollutants and allergens from the air, but it also helps regulate the temperature and humidity levels.

There are two types of ventilation: mechanical and natural. Mechanical ventilation uses fans or other devices to move air in and out of your home. Natural ventilation relies on wind and gravity to move air in and out of your home. In most cases, both types of ventilation are used together to create a balanced airflow system.

3. Safety

Before installing a fireplace in your home, several safety considerations must be taken into account. The first is the type of fireplace you choose. Some, like gas fireplaces, are much safer than others, like wood-burning fireplaces. If you have children or pets, it’s essential to choose a fireplace that is safe for them to be around.

You need to ensure it’s in a safe spot and not too close to furniture or other flammable objects. It would help if you also made sure that the area surrounding the fireplace is clear so that people can safely enjoy the fire without getting too close.

4. The Type of Fireplace You Want

There are three types of fireplaces: wood-burning, gas, and electric. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages.

Wood-burning fireplaces: These are the most traditional type of fireplace and give off the most heat. But they also require the most maintenance, since you have to clean out the ashes and replace the wood every day.

Gas fireplaces: These are more expensive than wood-burning fireplaces, but don’t require any maintenance. They also give off more heat than electric fireplaces.

Electric fireplaces are the least expensive option and require no maintenance, but they also give off the least heat.

Consider what type of fireplace will work best for your needs before deciding.

Installing a fireplace in your home can add warmth, comfort, and atmosphere. But before deciding to do so, consider all factors before making the investment and commitment. Take the time to research and make an informed decision – your wallet (and safety) will thank you.

10 Heating Problems of Residential Homeowners

When the temperature outside drops, it means winter is upon us. It also means we may have to rely on our heating systems to warm our homes and make us feel comfortable throughout the cold months.

Unfortunately, these heating systems are not without a flaw, with most issues showing up when we need our heating systems the most. In situations like that, we may have to seek help from trustworthy heating repair and maintenance service providers for fast and easy troubleshooting.

But of course, when you know what these issues are and how to spot them, heating problems can be less scary. So, here is a guide to the common heating problems that residential homeowners encounter. While some can be resolved easily, others require in-depth repairs that only HVAC professionals can do.

1. Poor Performance

Many homeowners don't value the importance of regular maintenance. They tend to disregard it, not knowing it seriously impacts a heating system's performance.

When you don't care about and maintain your heating system, you may have to pay for costly repairs and suffer poor comfort levels. And to make matters worse, you may even have to replace your heating system early, which can be a bit pricey.

2. Problematic Thermostat

Thermostat issues can result in serious HVAC problems. Though most thermostats are designed to last long, some encounter problems that cause your heating system to perform poorly.

Over time, your thermostat will age and accumulate dirt. And when this happens, it may give a wrong indoor temperature reading.

If you suspect any thermostat-related problems, have it inspected by a professional right away. They will then suggest if a repair will suffice or whether a replacement is a better option.

3. Poor Airflow

When your heating system has inefficient filters, incorrectly-sized vents, disconnected ducts, or leaks, you may experience poor airflow. Hence, if you think your heating system has a problem, contact a professional HVAC technician immediately.

4. Ductwork Leaks

Leaky ductwork is a common problem that many homeowners fail to notice. And before they know it, the leak has worsened already.

Damaged structural works, disconnected pipes, or incorrectly installed heating systems are among the top causes of these leaks. Because the air escapes from the leaks, your heating system has to work harder. In this case, schedule an inspection to verify if leaks are present.

5. Dirty Air Filters

Your heating system's air filters may have collected so much dirt, causing trouble and problems in your heating system. Generally, dirty filters will limit airflow in your system and cause your heater to work harder.

Ideally, HVAC filters should be replaced every month for better filtration. This way, your heating system works efficiently throughout the years.

6. Overworked Heat Pump

If you constantly use your heating system, you will likely experience this problem. Heat pumps are designed for climates that are less than 35 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if your home is in a location with a temperature not meeting the minimum, you may be overworking your heat pumps.

7. Moldy Furnace

Moisture buildup occurs due to poor insulation or inadequate ductwork. And when moisture builds up, molds may thrive.

Should you notice an unusual smell coming from your heating system, contact a professional to clean your HVAC system.

8. High Utility Bills

Utility bills may vary from month to month. But if you notice your heating bills are higher than before, check if air leaks and heating system issues are at fault.

 If you use a programmable thermostat, see if the settings are correct. You are likely heating your home more often than you prefer, which can cause the energy costs to spike. Set the fan to Auto to avoid these unnecessary expenses. 

Also, if you have set your furnace to switch on and run for a few minutes only, then you are setting it to short cycling. This setting is very expensive and inefficient.

Most of the time, property risk management officers check the efficiency of heating systems in their systems when conducting audits. If they find that your heating system is the culprit behind high utility bills, it will be included in their reports.

9. Old Heating System

Unlike new heat systems, old heating systems are inefficient. So, if you are using an old heating system, consider investing in a new one. The latest models are more efficient, converting more energy to heat and reducing energy bills.

10. Noisy Heating Systems

When your heat pump system is switched on, it should only generate subtle noise. If you notice new sounds, some potential causes are:

●      Loose Panels - Your heating system's panels may have fallen out of place because of a missing screw.

●      Fan Belt Problems - Unlubricated bearings can create odd grinding sounds. These bearings must be oiled every year to prevent problems.

●      Motor Bearing Issues - Your system's belt may need to be tightened or replaced if you hear a squealing sound.

●      Delayed Ignition - When ignition systems cannot burn fuel appropriately, you may hear loud sounds.

Prevent Heating System Problems at Home!

Some heating system problems are caused by daily wear and tear. However, they can be prevented. Conduct routine maintenance and have an HVAC professional inspect your system regularly to prevent minor problems from worsening.

Dangerous Materials Require Special Approach, Here's How To Do It

Chemicals and different hazardous materials should definitely be avoided. They are no joke. Namely, some of them can cause mild skin irritation, however, there are those that are so dangerous that they can cause life-threatening diseases like cancer.

That’s why it's of huge importance to develop a culture of safety for dealing, transporting, and storing these types of materials. If you need some further advice when it comes to this, then take a look at our tips below.

Simple Ways To Safely Handle Hazardous Materials

For Asbestos – Seek Help

There are some materials that simply cannot be handled on your own. Instead, you should hire a removalist who is going to effectively execute a safe asbestos removal from your house. Bear in mind that these professionals know exactly how to properly remove it and then decontaminate your household to minimize health risks.

If you're determined to select an unlicensed asbestos removal in your house/building, then you must correctly follow all safety procedures before, during, and after this process. You have to take things seriously in these types of situations.

Consider Potential Hazards And Plan Everything The Right Way

In these cases, it’s essential to have procedures and arrangements in place to deal with any urgent circumstances that may occur from hazmat exposure and spills. But what do we mean by that?

It means (this refers to the business owners/managers) that all your workers must be familiar with different emergency procedures, including cleanup, evacuation, and what's supposed to be done in case of fire.

Furthermore, you need to ensure that emergency equipment like shower stations and eyewash are within reach and are being tested on a regular basis and kept clean. In addition, you should train your employees on first-aid skills and explain to them what needs to be done if, God forbid, some of their colleagues are hurt or are exposed to dangerous materials/chemicals.

Make Sure All Hazardous Materials Are Stored Correctly

All these dangerous things must be kept in cool, dry, and ventilated spaces and separate incompatible materials. It's crucial to keep lids closed on every hazmat container. Moreover, be sure these storage areas do not contain things that might potentially cause falls, trips, and spills and do not have materials that might "stimulate" rodents and pests to be around them. 

We cannot stress enough how essential it is to keep every single work area tidy and clean. And we do not refer to clutter only, but also to work surfaces because that's one of the best ways to decrease the risk of exposure and contamination.

Labels, Labels, Labels

This section is intended for the workers. Namely, it's of huge importance for these people to always read the labels. Why is this so important? Because only then they'll be able to understand what they are working with and also to have the SDS (safety data sheet) accessible prior to employing any materials in order to understand how to deal with exposure or spill to a particular chemical.

People have a tendency to say that prevention is the key to many problems. And we couldn’t agree more, especially when it comes to hazardous things. So keep that in mind and be sure to follow these tips above.

Here's What You Need To Know If You Live In An Upscale Home

If you live in an upscale home, there are a few things you should know in order to keep your home running smoothly. From property taxes to HOAs, here's what you need to know about living in an upscale home.

Maintenance and Upkeep

As someone who owns an upscale home, you know that lifestyle comes with certain expectations. Part of those expectations includes maintaining your property to uphold its value. 

Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets, and like any investment, it needs to be properly cared for to maintain its value. This is where maintenance and upkeep come in. By staying on top of routine maintenance tasks and keeping up with necessary repairs, you can maintain your comfortable lifestyle with luxury real estate and help keep your luxury home in top condition - and preserve its resale value. Of course, maintaining a luxury home can be a big undertaking. But with a little planning and some expert help, it can be manageable. 

Property Taxes

Property taxes are one of the most important factors when purchasing an upscale home. Not only do they represent a significant portion of your annual expenses, but they can also have a major impact on your ability to sell your home in the future.

There are two main types of property taxes: ad valorem and special assessments. Ad valorem taxes are based on the appraised value of your property, while special assessments are levied for specific improvements or services such as street lighting or sewer maintenance.

The amount of property tax you will pay each year will depend on the tax rate set by your municipality and the assessed value of your home. In some cases, high-end homes are taxed more than lower-priced properties.

If you are considering purchasing an upscale home, it is important to research the property tax rates in the area before making your decision. By understanding the impact of property taxes on your finances, you can make a more informed choice about which home is right for you.

Homeowner's Association Fees

Homeowners' associations (HOAs) are not-for-profit organizations that manage the shared common areas and amenities of upscale residential developments. An HOA fee is a monthly or annual charge assessed by the association to cover the costs of maintaining and improving the property.

The developers of new construction projects typically form HOAs, but the homeowners of existing neighborhoods can also establish them. In either case, the HOA is responsible for enforcing the community's rules and regulations and managing its finances.

The purpose of an HOA fee is to provide funding for the maintenance and upkeep of shared areas, such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and landscaping. In some cases, the fees may also be used to cover the costs of community amenities, such as a clubhouse or fitness center.

While HOAs can be beneficial for maintaining property values in upscale neighborhoods, they can also be a source of frustration for homeowners. In some cases, the fees can be quite high, and the rules and regulations can be restrictive.

Living in an HOA community can have its advantages and disadvantages. Be sure to weigh both before deciding whether or not to purchase a home in such a community.

Insurance Costs

When you live in an upscale home, your insurance needs are different than if you lived in a more modest home. Here's what you need to know about insurance costs for upscale homes.

Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets. If you live in an upscale home, your property insurance needs to reflect that value. Upscale homes are usually larger and have more expensive features and finishes than more modest homes. That means they often cost more to rebuild after a disaster.

Your homeowner's insurance policy should cover the full replacement cost of your home minus any deductible. If your home is destroyed, you'll have enough money to rebuild it exactly as it was before - no shortcuts.

Security

It is no secret that homes in upscale neighborhoods are often the target of burglaries and other crimes. This is because these homes usually have more valuable possessions than homes in other areas. Therefore, it is essential for homeowners in these areas to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of their property and possessions.

One way to do this is by investing in a home security system. A good home security system will include features like motion detectors, cameras, and alarms that can deter criminals and alert the authorities if a break-in does occur. Homeowners should also make sure to keep their doors and windows locked at all times and refrain from posting information about their whereabouts or schedule on social media or other public platforms. By taking these simple steps, homeowners can greatly reduce their chances of becoming victims of a crime.

These are a few things to remember if you live in an upscale home. From property taxes to maintenance, a few extra expenses come with owning an expensive home. But owning an upscale home can be a great experience if you're prepared for these costs.

Different Types of Countertop Materials: Explained

There are many different types of countertops available on the market these days. It can be hard to decide which material is suitable for your home. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of materials that are available and explain the benefits and drawbacks of each one. So, whether you are remodeling your kitchen or replacing your countertops, read on for information about the different materials available.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that is quarried from the earth. It's one of the most popular countertop materials on the market because it is incredibly durable and has a wide range of color options. Granite is also heat-resistant, making it a good choice for homes with busy kitchens. The only downside to granite is that it requires regular sealing and maintenance to keep it looking its best.

Quartz

Quartz is a durable and low-maintenance material in various colors and styles. It's also non-porous, so it resists staining and bacteria growth and is easy to clean. And because it's engineered, quartz countertops are consistent in quality and pattern, making them a beautiful addition to any kitchen.

The cost of installing quartz countertops can be higher than other materials, but the long-term value may make quartz a wise investment for your home. In Phoenix, the average cost of quartz countertops is $50 to $100 per square foot. With the right Phoenix quartz countertop company, you can find the perfect countertops for your home at a wholesale price, which will save you money in the long run. be sure to research different companies and the different types of quartz countertops available before making a decision.

Laminate 

Laminate is a synthetic material composed of multiple layers of paper or fabric bonded together with resin. The top layer is often a decorative sheet that can mimic the look of stone, wood, or metal. Laminate countertops are typically less than half the price of solid surface countertops such as granite or quartz. They are also easy to care for— wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove spills and stains. In addition, laminate countertops are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can find an option that fits your style.

Solid Surface 

Solid surface countertops are made from acrylic or polyester resins combined with fillers like wood or metal flakes. Solid surface countertops are non-porous and resist stains, making them easy to keep clean. They also come in a wide range of colors and patterns. However, heat, scratches, or cuts can damage solid surface countertops. 

Marble 

Marble countertops are prized for their elegant appearance and durability. In addition, marble is heat-resistant and easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for cooking surfaces. Marble countertops can also be easily customized to fit any kitchen design. However, one downside of marble is that it is a relatively porous material, meaning that it can stain easily if not properly sealed. As a result, homeowners should consult with a professional before choosing marble for their kitchen countertops.

Concrete

Concrete countertops are a great way to add style and function to your kitchen. Concrete countertops have many benefits, including their durability, versatility, and unique appearance. For instance, concrete countertops are solid and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. They can also be customized to suit any kitchen design, from sleek and modern to rustic and charming. In addition, concrete countertops are an eco-friendly option, as they are made from recycled materials.

No matter what your budget or design preferences may be, there is a countertop material available that will be perfect for your kitchen. Be sure to consult a professional before making your final selection, as they can help you choose the suitable material and color that will perfectly match your kitchen décor.

10+ Christmas Kitchen Decor Ideas

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!! Are you one of those families who host Christmas Eve/Christmas Day, and you want your house to look festive through and out? We’ve got you covered. We found the cutest Christmas Decorations, big and small, to help add the festivity into your Kitchen.

Credit: Instagram @cottageonwynn