If your home environment is triggering a case of the blahs, it’s easy to feel like you’ll never be able to afford the redesign or remodel that will make your home current and stylish again. Reviving your home decor can be done affordably and quickly, however, with a few strategic DIY fixes. Try one of these seemingly small ideas and you’ll be amazed at the difference it will make. Add some details to the master bedroom. You don’t need to invest in a whole new bedroom set to create a fresh look and feel to your bedroom. Focus on a few...
5 Winter Style Rules for Your Seasonal Decor
Changing your decor for the season can be an excellent way to ensure your home is welcoming all year round. It can also allow you a change from your regular decor, ensuring you never get bored with your space. This winter, follow these style rules to ensure your seasonal decorating goes off without a hitch. One-in-One-Out Seasonal decor can bring life to your space and can allow you to change up your normal scenery. The mistake many make is to pile seasonal decor on top of their traditional daily decorations. Instead, opt for a one-in-one-out rule. Replace photos, pictures, and...
Why Your House’s Location May Make It Hard to Get Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners insurance companies decide whether to issue policies and set their rates based on risk. Many factors, including a house’s location, can influence its risk profile. In some cases, a home’s location makes it difficult to get homeowners insurance. If you find yourself in that situation, you may be able to find another way to get coverage. How Location Can Affect Risk Some parts of the United States are prone to severe weather, such as tornadoes and hurricanes. Houses along coastlines are susceptible to storm-related damage. Factors related to a specific neighborhood can influence risk. Some areas are located far...
3 Things New Homeowners Don’t Know
Becoming a new homeowner is an exciting milestone. It can also be an overwhelming process full of decision-making, seemingly endless paperwork and new responsibilities. When the dust settles and you officially sign for your new home, your work doesn’t end there. Many new homeowners don’t realize these important things. Don’t be caught unaware, be sure you understand these important tips. Your Insurance Needs to Be Updated Your home loan likely will require you to have adequate insurance on your house itself. This guarantees that in the event of an unpredictable situation, your lender will be protected. After all, if your...
The Institute: September Luxury Market Report
The Institute’s Luxury Market Report is your guide to an analysis on the trends and comparative data on the top-residential markets throughout Canada and the United States. September’s report reviews the current statistics for the luxury market in North America month over month, as well as the 13-month trend. This month we review the return of a more normal pace in the luxury real estate market, but explain why it might be too soon to start calling it a buyer’s market. The markers are there for change, but much will depend on two different criteria: 1.) whether inventory levels rise this...
Why You Should Look for Contractors Before You Have a Problem
If your roof is leaking or you have another urgent problem with your house, you’ll need to have a contractor repair it as soon as possible so it doesn’t get worse. Finding a qualified contractor can be a complex process, but you won’t have much time to do your homework if water is pouring through the ceiling. If you research contractors in advance, you’ll be prepared should an issue arise, and you’ll be able to avoid further problems. You Will Be Able to Find a Qualified and Reputable Company Not all contractors provide the same level of work and have...
Brokerage Safety and Security Checklist, 4 Critical Steps to Take Today
The real estate industry is a dangerous one. Even for agents who feel capable, even in areas that seem safe, there is always the possibility of a life-or-death situation arising during the many long hours agents spend alone, often in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Follow these four steps to “Lead with Safety” and protect yourself as you work. Establish a Strong Safety Culture Safety culture starts at the top. If agents, staff, teams, and vendors know that safety is important to you, it will be important to them, too. The benefits of a safe work culture include reducing liability, increasing morale, and...
5 Habits of Clean People That You Can Adopt in Your Home
For some, keeping house comes naturally. For others, particularly those with young children, it can feel like a constant battle. If your home is not as tidy as you would like, implementing some carefully chosen new habits can be all that it takes to tip the scales. Make cleaning and tidying more manageable than ever before by adopting these habits “clean people” already know. Leave Your Shoes by the Door Sometimes, the secret to keeping your home clean and tidy is to simply avoid dirtying it at all. Your shoes are host to grime and germs that accumulate throughout the...
10 Ways to Make Your Home Look Expensive on a Budget
No matter the value of the space we call home, we want it to look as luxurious as possible, even on a small budget. Decorators share tips on small upgrades that add more than their money’s worth of grace and glamour. Quick tip: choose one or two as your budget permits. A Grand Entrance – First impressions begin at the doorway. Start with a clean and freshly painted door, add a nice doormat and a potted plant or two and be sure the entryway is effectively lighted at night. Attractive Lighting – Good lighting can bathe a room in luxury, and a huge array...
What to Look for in a Luxury Real Estate Agent
Especially when buying a luxury home, it’s essential to work with an agent who is deeply versed in the high-end market and can guide you every step of the way. If you’re looking to buy or sell a luxury property, your time and privacy are of high priority. When you’re ready to buy or sell your luxury home, here are some tips to help you select the real estate agent who will be the best fit for you. Luxury Real Estate Experience While decades of professional experience in other professional fields is an asset to real estate agents, it’s essential...