There's a host of reasons many homeowners choose to downsize. Perhaps they’re going to retire soon or their kids have already flown the coop. There’s no need for the extra rooms anymore; cleaning and maintaining them can also be costly. Or maybe they’ve looked at their recent electricity bills and thought about how they could save money on utilities. More people are also loving the idea of living more mindfully, and one way to do it is to have a smaller home that’s more manageable and easier to maintain. No matter your reason, remember that downsizing is a major decision that requires you to carefully consider your situation and expectations. Here are five questions to ask yourself when you are considering the move. Hopefully, your answers will help you prepare for the lifestyle and financial changes waiting for you ahead. To save money is one of the top reasons why people downsize. If you've given serious thought to downsizing, it’s probably one of the things you first looked into. When you are comparing how much you currently pay for your house vs how much you’ll pay for a smaller home, don’t forget to add the usual costs aside from mortgages, such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, utilities, and even maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. You might also need to spend on homeowners association fees if you’re downsizing to a townhouse or condo. You need to carefully consider these fees because moving into a smaller home doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be saving money. While expenses like utilities and maintenance are relatively cheaper when you downsize, you can also potentially have higher costs of living depending on where you will relocate. Not to mention the additional costs of moving and furnishing your new home. Those household costs can be a huge and significant factor when considering whether downsizing is a better option. Another thing to think about is: how much will you be able to sell your home for in today's market? It’s important to look at the overall financial picture instead of underestimating the costs of selling a house. There are expenses like the real estate agent’s commission (unless you decide to “For-Sale-By-Owner'' or FSBO), real estate transfer taxes, loan payoffs, home warranty, among others. You might also be required to shell out a decent sum of money for necessary repairs before putting your property on the market, as well as for professional home staging services should you need to attract more buyers. If you’ve owned your home for many years, you probably gained a lot of equity. This means selling your home could provide you a comfortable nest egg to put towards a smaller, cheaper home while still leaving some money to add to your savings and other future investments. But the difficult scenario is if you sell the home and the amount you receive is less than what you owe on the mortgage. When this happens, you will have to use your own money to make up the difference or risk a short sale. In other words, if you are in a negative equity position towards your home, you might have to put off your plans of downsizing for now and stick to your current house. It's essential to figure out the optimal amount of living space that’s perfect for your situation. If your current home provides an ample amount of space needed for your work, hobbies, and completely accommodates the needs of your family, plus the fact that you can afford to stay and maintain it, then downsizing may still be a far-off idea for you. But if, for example, you’re starting a new chapter of your life where your kids are already older and started moving out, you might not require all of the extra bedrooms. Besides, heating and maintaining the extra rooms can be costly.  Moreover, think about your outdoor space. If creating a relaxing outdoor retreat or having a lush garden is important to you, it may be difficult to give up. But if maintaining your yard just feels like work, then you might consider moving to a condo or a low-maintenance property. Likewise, don’t forget to evaluate other things such as parking or garage space when you move, especially if you have two vehicles.  When thinking about the pros and cons of downsizing, also note that an optimal floor plan is critical to maximizing space. There are many smaller houses with a significantly better floor plan, which could be the key to your happiness if you think moving is the right choice for you. Since you'll have limited space when you downsize, you also need to deal with lesser stuff. This means paring down your possessions and only bringing the things you need instead of keeping all the things you love. And since letting go of your stuff can be an emotional ordeal, you might want to consider how attached you are to your possessions and whether you can part with many of the stuff you’ve accumulated and loved over the years. Start by taking into account all of your stuff. If you are adamant about keeping most of it, you may want to consider moving later. Or you can opt to rent out storage space until you can figure out what treasures you want to keep, donate, and even sell. If you think sorting through your belongings can be a nightmare, some businesses can help you with the job. But if you find that going through your old stuff is liberating and it would feel great to dispose of the many things you’re holding onto for no reason, be prepared to come up with a plan so you can properly work out what you can and can’t take with you to your new home. There's no hard and fast rule when it comes to downsizing. What may apply to you may not be suited for others, which means you only need to assess yourself and your situation before accomplishing the move.  Start by considering your feelings. Are you ready to downsize? What are the things you’re looking forward to? If the thought of moving into a smaller home makes you excited because you’ll have extra time relaxing on the patio with your favorite book or drink, instead of cleaning bedrooms you rarely use or maintaining your outdoor space, then you are probably ready to downsize. While moving into a smaller house has clear advantages, you’ll only realize how small it really is once you start looking, and you may find yourself comparing your potential home to what you’ve grown accustomed to. This is why it’s also helpful to create a list of pros and cons and make sure to carefully evaluate your family’s needs and future plans before you decide.   Bottom Line This transition is far from easy, so don't forget that it’s okay to be emotionally overwhelmed. After all, you’re moving from a home that you’ve built over the years to a new, smaller home where you need to adjust everything. Just remember that your goal is to simplify your life and hopefully to save for other bigger things in your life.

It's halfway through the year, and you’re probably one of those homeowners who’d already forgotten about their New Year’s resolutions to keep their home more organized. Or you’re a new homeowner who has just packed and moved to a new place and realized you have way too much stuff even if you don’t want to admit it.  If you’ve made it a mission to embrace a minimalist home interior so you can live simpler, we’ve come up with short but sweet and essential tips and changes that you can apply to your current space. Hopefully, with fewer knick-knacks cluttering your living spaces and weighing down your daily life, it will be easier to beautify your home that will ultimately help you reap the benefits of living better with less.    1. Minimize clutter and maximize storage. Perhaps one of the main reasons you're looking to embrace minimalist home decor is due to the clutter your home has accumulated over the years. And while it can be overwhelming to declutter and redesign your house at once, the key is to start small. Tackle one space or room at a time to make the task more doable. A good rule of thumb is to get rid of surplus stuff and keep only the items that are truly essential and meaningful to you. If you aren’t ready to part with your belongings completely, having optimal storage will allow you to store what you don’t need to avoid clutter from overflowing into your living spaces. If you’re looking to make a good impression in your kitchen, for instance, check what you display on the shelves, countertops, and tabletops. Stick to essentials only or those you use on a daily basis, then store the rest in the cabinets. A minimalist home makes use of clever storage solutions, such as furniture that can serve multiple purposes (including storage). Once you’ve stowed away most of your things, it’s easier to organize and designate a spot for everything you’ve chosen to display.   2. Play with patterns and textures. The absence of patterns or colors doesn't have to deter you from making your space more interesting. You can add a variety of textures, fabrics, and woven elements—materials such as seagrass, rattan, velvet—that will add dimension to the room and make it appear less dull and more comfortable. The different textures and fabrics in your chosen pieces will also bring an added warmth throughout the room without making it overwhelming.   3. Maximize the use of natural light. Since you'll be using mostly neutral colors when decorating your minimalist home, lighting can help you play with shades and tones to make your room feel warm and cozy instead of being too stark or unwelcoming. And the best way to do that is to embrace and let in as much natural light as possible. It’s recommended to use breezy, sheer curtains to highlight your windows and bring in a lot of sunlight. If you live in a city where there isn’t much sunlight or that the room lacks a lot of natural light, you can try to think of ways to brighten up your space using different lighting fixtures. Placing a mirror is also a good idea as it will help spread natural light around your space.   4. Decorate with meaning and purpose. Aside from keeping clutter at a minimum, one of the most important things to remember when trying to embrace a minimalist home design is that everything needs space and purpose. Instead of adorning your house with various items that could end up cluttering your space, choose pieces with intention and limit your decorations to the ones that are most meaningful to you. Using pieces that hold special value or meaning, such as family heirlooms and special photos, brings greater attention and value to you and the ones who are living in the home. If you tend to over-decorate, ask yourself whether you genuinely need the item before filling up the space.   5. Resist the temptation to buy or add more. Always remember that less is definitely more when it comes to designing a minimalist home. This means the biggest challenge you might have to face is to practice restraint when it comes to buying new items. Before buying anything, ask yourself: “Do I really need this?” “Where will I put it?” Turn down advertisements as much as you can; unsubscribe and unfollow shops that will tempt you with their latest finds or huge sales. Be mindful of online shopping and figure out what makes you really happy in your space. When you choose quality over quantity, you can set aside your budget for more expensive pieces that will enhance the curated look you want to achieve. Make sure that you also practice restraint when decorating. Knowing when to stop adding something to the space and remembering that every piece in the room should have a purpose will help you enjoy the pared-back aesthetic you're aiming for.

Adding a fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to give your home the makeover it deserves. It breathes new life into your space, no matter if you're painting the interior or exterior of your home. Whether you are a typical homeowner who wants to refresh your space or a seller who’s preparing your home for sale, who wants to get rid of those mustard-yellow walls to give way to neutral colors that will suit the taste of most buyers, chances are you want to go the DIY route to save some money. Besides, there’s something more rewarding about doing it on your own. But before you wield a brush or a roller, consider these amateur moves you'd want to avoid so your paint job will be flawless and professional-looking. If you’re a master DIY-er already, it won’t hurt to pick up a new tip or two to help prevent problems on your next painting project.   Many eager and impatient homeowners often forget what could be the most important process in any painting job: cleaning and preparing the walls before starting. They're excited to jump right into the project to see the new colors they picked for their walls. But not preparing your painting surface properly is usually the biggest difference between DIY and professional projects. And while each paint job is different and requires varying preparations, your primary goal is to have a clean, dry, and smooth surface before rolling your paint onto it.  So go the extra mile to ensure your painting surface is fully prepared. Because even though your walls and surfaces appear to be in good condition and don’t look like they need cleaning, they usually house plenty of dust, dirt, and grime, which can result in uneven paint spots or paint that chips and peels off easily. If you’re painting interior walls, use a duster to get rid of dust and any cobwebs. Examine the walls and scrape away any old, chipping paint, then sand down any rough edges. Wipe down the surface using a rag or washcloth dampened in a mixture of mild detergent (or any residue-free cleaner) and warm water to remove lingering dirt and debris. For exterior walls, power washing will be more efficient and effective. In addition to cleaning, don’t forget to also consider the quality of the surface you’re looking to paint.  Doing these vital surface preparations will make sure that the painting job will provide a desirable outcome. Besides, even if you hire professionals to do the job, doing some of the prep work yourself can save you money and ensure the perfect results you’re hoping for.   Don't even try opening your first can of paint without making sure that your floors, furniture, and other fixtures are covered. It’s extra work, yes, but it can save you from a lot of headaches and time-consuming cleanup in the end. If you’re doing an interior painting project, move all furniture and cover the floors with drop cloths. Also, cover the doorknobs and other fixtures to protect them against spills and drips. If you’re painting any exterior part of the house, use drop cloths to protect your grass, plants, and other items that can’t be moved out of the way.   Many people choose to skip using tape because it takes time and effort to apply. But taping around the edges ensures you'll have sharp, clean lines and a polished finish. Don’t skip this task especially if you want to achieve professional-looking results.  But remember as well that not just any tape will do—you need to invest in painter’s tape, which is specially designed for the job and won’t leave residue behind. Just make sure to remove the tape before the paint dries completely, ideally an hour after you’ve finished painting, to avoid the dried paint from peeling off.   No matter your skill level when starting a paint job, using high-quality tools—paint brushes, rollers, spray paints—is critical to a good paint application. They may be costly, but it's worth the investment to buy the best type of brush that suits the surface you’re painting and the type of paint you’re using. Your paint will apply better and quicker and your brushes won’t leave loose bristles and patchy areas behind, giving your home the professional look you want to achieve.   Having experience is extremely helpful when aiming for a perfect finish. However, you can also increase your chances of getting great results by avoiding these bad habits and techniques as much as possible when painting any part of your home. Don't dunk your brush completely into the can. Instead, just dip the top third of the brush in the paint. This way, you’ll get enough paint on your brush without wasting or pushing the paint deep into the bristles, which will make it more difficult to clean. Avoid over-brushing. Especially when painting woodwork, doors, or cabinets, too much brushwork will cause unsightly brush marks and ridges.  Avoid leaving the lid off the paint can. After pouring out some paint, remember to always close the lid immediately to keep the paint from drying out and to avoid paint crud from forming on the lid. This will also prevent anyone from stepping on the lids or accidentally spilling the opened cans, which is another hassle to clean up. Don’t add your second coat too quickly. Be sure to wait long enough for the first coat of paint to dry before applying the second coat (which can be anywhere from one to 48 hours depending on the type of paint). Check the paint can label to see instructions regarding drying time between coats. Because the second coat is delicate, applying it too quickly can result in peeling paint or visible brush strokes, completely ruining how the finished project looks. 

In the midst of a global pandemic, our homes have become much more than a space that provides a roof over our heads. We've experienced sheltering in place for several months, so having a place we can call our own has become invaluable. For many, our homes have also turned into our workspaces and even schools for our children.  Moreover, a recent survey by Gallup just ranked real estate as the best long-term investment among several options—with 41 percent of Americans seeing it as superior to stocks, gold, savings accounts, and bonds.  But unlike other investment options where the benefits are purely financial, owning a home provides both financial, non-financial, and social advantages that allow every homeowner to take great pride in. As National Homeownership Month kicks off this June, we'll cover some of those benefits that will hopefully make you more excited to kickstart your homeownership journey, or even celebrate if you already have a place to call your own.   Building equity Home equity refers to the value of your property that “you truly own.” It is your property's current market value minus the amounts owed on any mortgages or liens against the property. Owning a home builds equity because equity grows with each payment you make toward your mortgage, which brings you closer to owning more of your home. It’s opposed to making monthly payments to your landlord if you’re a renter, where you will own nothing no matter how long you stay there. Performing routine maintenance on your home and other renovations that help increase its resale value is also another way to build equity. Your home equity is a form of forced savings that is essentially part of your net worth, which means you’re preparing for your future since you can use it down the road to help you accomplish other huge financial goals.   Helps build a strong credit history A mortgage is considered “good debt” so as long as you're consistently making your monthly loan payments on time, you are showing to other lenders that you are a good borrower. This helps to build your credit and proves your credit-worthiness, which can be helpful when you may want to consider other loans in the future, such as for buying a car, remodelling your home, or getting a business loan. It’s an additional perk that many buyers may not consider at first but will prove to be beneficial later on.   Better control and stability over housing-related costs One of the most significant financial benefits of being a homeowner, and the biggest advantage versus being a renter, is that you will have better control over your monthly housing payments. Unlike rent costs that continue to go up each year, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your monthly mortgage payments remain relatively steady despite rising interest rates and periods of inflation, especially if you have a fixed-rate mortgage where the cost of your home is locked in for the term of your loan.  Other costs of owning a home like property taxes and insurance premiums may fluctuate, but this doesn’t typically happen as often as rising rents. You can also choose to install energy-efficient appliances and features that can help save you thousands of dollars in utility bills every year. With this kind of control, you can budget accordingly and make better short- and long-term financial decisions.   Tax deductions Another financial perk of being a homeowner is that you qualify for many tax deductions and tax credits. To make it clear, a tax deduction reduces your adjusted gross income, which in turn reduces your tax liability. Meanwhile, credits represent money taken off of your tax bill.  While we won't elaborate on them further, the most common tax deductions for homeowners include: Mortgage interest Points Real estate taxes Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) Home office deduction Medically-necessary home improvements Capital gains tax exclusion On the other hand, tax credits may be available for those who were issued a Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC). You can also check if your state offers tax credits or rebates for energy efficient-improvements you’ve made to your home.   Increased privacy and security In the 2020 National Housing Survey from Fannie Mae, one of the top three reasons Americans value homeownership is because it helps them achieve a sense of privacy and security. Unlike when living in an apartment where you often have to deal with thin walls and be able to hear almost every move of your neighbors, you are less likely to experience this when you own a home. You are also more likely to have the same neighbors for many years, increasing trust among the community. Moreover, privacy and security were proven to have become even more valuable as we've dealt with the challenges of the recent health crisis.   Freedom and control over your living space Owning a home means you have a space that is uniquely yours. You have the freedom to customize it to your liking; accomplish renovations to make your home look exactly how you want it. In the National Housing Survey mentioned above, 91 percent of respondents said homeownership could help them achieve control over what they do with their living space. Many renters have rules and limitations over the color they can paint the rooms or changes they can make to the appearance of their living spaces to make it feel like home, or even against having pets. But when you own, you're free to create the space you want and renovate how you see fit (but still within the boundaries of your homeowner’s association and local zoning rules). It’s a liberating feeling that can never be taken for granted, especially if you’ve been a long-time renter first before finally owning your space.   Increased civic participation Unlike their renter counterparts, homeowners often settle in their area for longer periods and don't have to worry about moving anytime soon. This in turn adds a certain degree of stability to the neighborhood. With their stronger connection to their community, homeowners are often more committed to volunteer work. They are likely to contribute to the maintenance of their properties and surrounding areas. They are also more likely to get involved in community organizations and build relationships with other people in their neighborhood, potentially leading to an overall increase in civic participation.   Pride of ownership The feeling of accomplishment and the sense of pride that comes along with homeownership is something that can never be underestimated. In the Fannie Mae survey, 87 percent of consumers believe owning a home is important to “living the good life.” Having a place where you can settle and raise your family, make memories, celebrate holidays and other special occasions, and spend time with family and friends is an important milestone that contributes to your overall health and well-being, which ultimately leads to a better quality of life. This sense of stability and life satisfaction is the reason why homeownership continues to represent the American dream for thousands of families each year.

Selecting and buying furniture for your beautiful abode, whether it be a sofa, dining table or any other piece, is no doubt fun and exciting. Especially if you're a first-time homeowner who finally has the liberty to choose whatever furniture you want to fill your private space with.  But before you give your home that desired Pinterest-inspired look or buy an item that’s similar from what you’ve seen online or from your favorite home decor magazine, keep in mind that furniture-buying can also be stressful and overwhelming. It’s probably the next commitment (and investment) you have to make after buying your home since you’ll be using the items for quite a number of years, so it is definitely a huge deal.  Unless you want to be stuck with pieces of furniture that don't work for the room or any of your space, steer clear of these top six common mistakes before buying. After all, we all just want to end up with great pieces that will not only make our home beautiful but also make our life more comfortable.   1. Forgetting to measure everything in your space before buying. The last thing you want is to end up with an expensive piece of furniture that won't fit through your front door and through the rest of your doorways and walkways. However, it’s one of the most common mistakes many homeowners make when buying furniture.  So here are four crucial things you need to do before bringing home any piece:  Measure the height, width, and depth of the furniture you’re considering and see if it’ll fit where you want it. Measure the dimensions of the room where you want to place the furniture, whether it’s the living room, kitchen, bedroom, or even home office. It might be easier if you map out your potential new furniture arrangements. One good method is to stick some masking tape or painter’s tape on the floor to help you visualize the dimensions of the new piece you’re considering. Check if it will fit the doorways and door frames of the room, the narrow part of the hallways, and even staircases and elevators—anything through which you'll be moving your new furniture. Last but not least, add some space to your measurements for people who are carrying the piece, especially if they have to move it through a right-angle corner of a hallway or at a narrower part of a room. Also, don’t forget to write down all your measurements! Forgetting to do these things can be costly, especially if you have to foot the bill to return a piece to the store. Also keep in mind that furniture pieces like sofas and dining tables can look deceptively small in a showroom but could end up big for your home. So measure everything (and double-check your measurements) before you hit the stores to avoid falling in love with furniture that will never fit your space.   2. Not paying attention to scale. Aside from measuring everything, you also need to consider the scale of the product and how much space is needed around it before you bring it home. You want a piece to fit into the space without blocking entryways or foot traffic, or without people needing to squeeze between tightly-packed pieces to be able to have access or move around parts of the home. Likewise, keep in mind how your room will work as a whole and try to keep things in proportion. For an instance, too small a rug can actually make a room look smaller, while a bulky, oversized sofa can be too dominating or overwhelming. Always consider how a particular piece of furniture would go well with the things alongside it rather than outshine everything else.   3. Buying without thinking how your furniture will fit your lifestyle. Another mistake of many new homeowners is buying furniture without taking their lifestyle into consideration. Even if you have chosen the chicest pieces to adorn your home, if they don't work with your lifestyle or family circumstances they could only end up bringing you headaches. For example, if you have children or pets, or planning to have them as you grow your family in the foreseeable future, you might want to select furniture with durable fabrics or upholstery that will resist everyday spills, odors, sharp claws and even muddy paws. Moreso, you might want to think twice before buying a glass coffee table with hard edges, as it could become a hazard especially to toddlers. If you’re someone who loves to host dinner parties among families and friends (although things may be quite different for the meantime due to the pandemic), you may want to select a dining table with an extra leaf.  Whatever your lifestyle is, it’s important to consider if the furniture you’re buying will hold up to those uses. Always ask yourself questions like “How will I use this piece of furniture?” or “What about my family circumstances?” This way, there won’t be a need to waste thousands of dollars because you need to replace your things after only a couple of months.   4. Not being realistic about the maintenance. In relation to the lifestyle subject discussed above, you need to be realistic about the normal wear and tear the furniture will be subject to, and assess your willingness to clean and maintain it yourself or pay for professional cleaning instead. Even if you have the budget to buy high-end pieces, they may require more care than what you have anticipated.  Buy accordingly and know the type of care needed on each piece of furniture, which is highly dependent on the materials and finishes. Be familiar with how it can be cleaned, and what are the best (and worst) products to clean it with. There are a variety of care products such as waxes, varnishes, polishes, and even fabric cleaners, and many were designed to work on certain materials only. Some cleaning products can also be harsh and easily ruin materials like leather and genuine hardwood. So be sure to know what you are getting into, and only consider a certain material if you feel you're up to the task of keeping on top of its maintenance.    5. Prioritizing style over comfort. With so many beautiful styles and designs to choose from for your sofa, bed, cabinets, or even dining table, it's easier for you to get carried away and buy something that looks great and stylish. But no matter how much you want your home to look like it’s come out from a page of an interior design magazine, remember to be practical and always choose comfort over beauty. No matter how attractive, never get caught up in the aesthetics of any piece. The furniture you choose should be fit for everyday use, and should be both comfortable and serve the purpose it’s intended for, not to mention that you’re going to live with it for years to come.   6. Buying everything at once or getting into impulse buys. You've spent months searching for your dream home. Now that you’ve got your house keys, don’t spend a few hours (or minutes) buying new furniture just because the empty spaces feel lonely. Or maybe you’re already fed up with your old furniture and want everything to be replaced with new ones as soon as possible. No matter how tempting these situations are, don’t rush into buying. It’s a mistake that could eventually lead to overspending because the pieces you bought could end up neither working for your needs and lifestyle nor matching your personality.  Remember to plan ahead, think it through, check the measurements, assess your lifestyle, check the fabrics, colors, or materials, and take your time instead of making any impulsive purchases. While getting the perfect piece of furniture may not be possible every time, as long as you’ve seriously considered it and you’re still in love with it even after you’ve slept on the idea, then go ahead and add it to your beautiful home.

Cleaning is tough, but it's something we need to do consistently to take care of our humble abode. Not to mention it’s a crucial task to keep our family and home safe in this pandemic age.  But since it’s a tedious job, we’re often guilty of cutting corners to do it “faster” and easier. This could result in developing bad habits that are actually hindering our ability to get the job done more efficiently, and sometimes could even cause harm to our family and our home. It's time to figure out if you’re guilty of these bad cleaning habits, and then drop them out for good, one at a time. This way, cleaning won’t be a tougher job than it was supposed to be, and you’ll be left with a cleaner and healthier home.   One thing to remember when cleaning your home is to always dust first and work from the top of the shelves, then down and around. This way, dust that doesn't get trapped in your cloth or duster will land on the floor to be swept or vacuumed away.   This seems like a huge irony, but it's something that we’re often guilty about. How can you expect to get clean results when you are using dirty cleaning tools? Using a dirty duster will just push around dust all over the place. By wiping your countertop or stovetop with an already soiled cloth or a dirty sponge, you are just risking cross-contamination between surfaces. If your vacuum bag is full of dust or its filter hasn’t been changed, it just won’t do its job of sucking up dirt any more. Using dirty cleaning tools isn’t only ineffective, but it’s also the culprit in spreading further germs and bacteria. So take the time to thoroughly clean your tools after every use by using hot water and disinfectant so they are ready for your next cleaning job. You can also check if you already need to replace them. For vacuums, washing machines, dishwashers, and other cleaning appliances, read the manual first and follow instructions on how to properly clean them.   But “more” is better, right? Using a lot of cleaner will work better and faster, isn't it?  Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Any residue that was not rinsed away completely will just become a dust and dirt magnet. Using too much laundry detergent, for example, will just make you wash the clothes again to remove the excess detergent.  Over-applying any cleaning product is simply just a waste of water, time, and money. This is why it’s important to read the label (more on this later) and use only the recommended amount of cleaner for the job.    Just like how using too much cleaner is a common mistake, using a harsh cleaner to do the job can also be a bad habit that can do more harm than good. Household staples, such as chlorine bleach, may be a good disinfectant but is too harsh and can cause more damage than just removing dirt and grime. It can be hazardous to your family and pets, and could even strip away your home's surfaces, furnishings and finishes.  Take extra care when deciding what cleaner to use and if it is appropriate for the job. Most cleaning tasks require nothing more than gentle and natural cleaners that are also safe and environment-friendly. If you can’t skip the bleach, remember that a little amount goes a long way.   It will just take at least 30 seconds to a few minutes, so why skip it? Not reading the label on the cleaning products before using them is a surefire way to make a cleaning fail. You'll save time and effort (and extra minutes of scrubbing) when you follow the directions on the product, especially if it needs to “sit” for a period of time to do its magic. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on proper usage, how much you need, what surfaces it works on best, and even storage tips. If it says to only use a capful of detergent for a load of clothes, or just a few drops to a cup of water, follow just that and don’t use double or triple thinking that you will maximize its effectiveness. It's in the manufacturer's best interest to ensure the product works for you, so make sure you heed their advice.

A multigenerational household is typically made up of aging parents, their adult children, and their teenage or young grandchildren. This setup has seen a steady rise in recent years, with over 64 million Americans living and sharing a multigenerational household, according to a 2018 Pew Research Center analysis of census data. It's a large-scale change that continues to alter the way people buy and build homes. What's fuelling this shift? There are many factors that can help explain the rise of multigenerational living. According to the 2020 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 12 percent of home buyers purchased a multi-generational home (same as last year) to take care of aging parents, because of children over the age of 18 moving back home, and for cost-saving.  Likewise, experts cited the growing immigrant population, economic, and cultural factors that are fuelling this trend. The Asian and Hispanic populations are growing steadily, and they are more likely than whites to live in a multigenerational household, according to the Pew Research Center report.  Skyrocketing rents and home prices, especially in some cities, are also affecting a growing number of people. Many of them decide to move back to their homes, especially those who are struggling to get good-paying jobs or still paying off student debt. Also among them are millennials who want to save up more money to be able to return to school or save for a down payment for a home.  Likewise, adult children offer their home to their aged parents as a convenient and cost-effective option. They can save up on child care expenses while helping with caregiving, which helps family members to save money. These are just some of the practical, economic, and emotional benefits that a multigenerational living situation gives to these families.   Many of the homes built for these customers include multiple kitchens, a separate living room, bath, laundry, and garage, among others. They may also include a “granny suite” or in-law suite with a separate entrance or a walkway that connects it to the main house. Most of these dwellings also have modern amenities such as dual thermostat controls and other features that cater to the needs of the older family members. No wonder why it is called “a home for all generations,” or “a home within a home,” and more families are embracing this kind of living arrangement.   1. Managing household costs and budget This could be the biggest drawback of families who are moving in together. They should agree firsthand on how they will handle household costs, such as mortgage, utilities, bills, and even groceries. Families should analyze their expenses and go over their budgets to address any concerns. Members should never get the idea that sharing these expenses won't be a big deal just because “they’re all related.”   2. Maintaining privacy When multiple generations live together, one thing that can be very difficult to maintain is privacy. It can disrupt family harmony, especially for adult children and their aging parents. So families should consider a home with separate entrances or walkways, kitchens, and bathrooms. This way, they can preserve family harmony while still living in the same roof where they can depend on each other.   3. Dealing with zoning issues and restrictions Granny studios or granny flats, in-law suites, and other accessory dwelling units and structures are subject to local building codes and zoning restrictions. Some cities are fine with homes that have separate kitchens and entrances. In California, for an instance, laws have been passed to ease restrictions on building a second unit on the same piece of land.  However, other cities impose stricter rules since they want to draw a line on whether a home is designed only for family use, as opposed to being used as a rental.    Bottom Line For families who have decided they want this kind of arrangement and are starting to look for a home, find a real estate agent or broker who has experience in selling multigenerational homes and also knows the area well. Your agent can help make the process smooth-sailing since he or she should be familiar with the multifamily market and can better understand your family's special arrangements.

We may have been cooking more at home ever since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, but the days leading to the Thanksgiving holiday are when most of us will spend the entire day in the kitchen preparing and cooking everything—from the glorious turkey, to potatoes, pumpkin pies, and any other side dishes and desserts that's part of our traditional feast. While our gatherings might be scaling back this year due to health restrictions, we will still prepare and cook for our Thanksgiving dinner. And safety is still more important than ever, especially when it comes to kitchen fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the leading cause of residential fires in the U.S., with over 1,600 home cooking fire incidents on Thanksgiving Day in 2019. Here are some important reminders to help protect your family and your property from kitchen fires:   1. Prep and clean your equipment. Before you get excited about preparing any part of your Thanksgiving dinner, deep clean your oven, cooking appliances, and other equipment so they'll be free of crumbs or grease, especially if you’ve been cooking frequently. Also, make sure they are in good working condition before you use them.    2. Don't overload your outlets. Overloading wall outlets or power strips, especially if you're using all of your kitchen appliances at once, is another recipe for electrical fire. The NFPA recommends using only one cord per receptacle outlet, so make sure you space things out. Also, look out for any frayed cords or bare wires, which could also present a fire hazard.   3. Make sure your smoke detectors and alarms are working. Before you turn on the stove to boil the potatoes or fire up the oven to bake some of the pies, check all of your smoke detectors and alarms, even those not near the kitchen. Test each device and replace the batteries of those that are no longer working properly. By ensuring your smoke alarms are working properly, any potential fire hazard can be caught before flames break out.   4. Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected. If you haven't done it yet, have your chimney cleaned to avoid any buildup that could cause fire when you light it up. Also, make sure you don’t keep anything flammable anywhere near the fireplace.   5. Never leave the kitchen unattended while you're cooking. Unattended cooking was cited by the NFPA as the leading cause of cooking fires and injuries. And because most cooking fires involve the kitchen stove, it's critical to never leave the kitchen while you’re cooking, especially if you’re frying or grilling food. If you are roasting, simmering, or baking something which could take quite some time, make sure to stay in the home, check on it frequently, and use a kitchen timer to keep track of the cooking time.   6. Keep flammable objects away from the stove, oven, and any other hot surfaces. Keep any items that can easily catch fire—oven mitts, potholders, wooden utensils, hand towels, curtains, food packaging, etc—away from the stovetop, oven, or any other hot surfaces (including the area around the fireplace). If you are using candles to add ambiance to your table setting, remember to keep them away from flammable objects, kids and pets at all times, and never leave them unattended.   7. Have a fire extinguisher nearby. Store the fire extinguisher in a place that's easily accessible in the kitchen and/or dining area, but still far away from potential fire hazards. This way, you can easily reach them out in case a grease splatters on a hot burner or a candle was accidentally knocked over. Make sure you know how to properly use one and read the instructions and safety labels. Also, confirm the fire extinguisher’s expiration date so you’re guaranteed it’s not yet expired before starting your preparations for this year’s Thanksgiving menu.    Happy Thanksgiving!

Refinancing your mortgage can help ease your financial burden and give you some breathing room. And with the current rates staying at an all-time low, it might be worthwhile to look into refinancing options so you can save money on your monthly payments.  However, one of the biggest hurdles to refinancing is credit score. Many lenders require borrowers to have a minimum credit score of 620 and have solid financial standing. But remember that credit requirements still vary by lender and the type of refinance loan. Regardless of your credit, refinancing your mortgage is still possible. It could be more challenging, yes, but still possible. So here are three tips to keep in mind when you decide to tackle the refinance process.   1. Shop around for rates and lenders. When you start looking for refinancing options, your initial thought might be to go to your former lender. It makes sense since this lender has already given you a mortgage before, he or she could be more likely to help you refinance. However, experts say it's also worth it to shop around for another lender who may be willing to give you a better rate, even if you have less-than-stellar credit. Check and compare for the best interest rates among real mortgage brokers, online mortgage brokers, and even institutions. If you can’t find the rates of a specific lender on comparison websites, try reaching out to the lender or institution directly to see for yourself if they actually have reasonable rates.    2. Keep an eye on fees. Just as you did when you were getting your original mortgage, you'll need to pay closing fees when you refinance, which could amount to hundreds or thousands of dollars. This is why it’s imperative that you also ask about any fees—origination, appraisal fees, etc., so you’ll know how much you can really save. It’s possible that you may have found a lower rate with another lender or mortgage company, only to discover that their fees were higher. Don’t be shy about asking for an itemized list of fees from each potential lender so you can find the one with a lower rate and more reasonable charges.   3. Check if you qualify for an FHA or VA refinance program. FHA Streamline Refinance Program FHA loans, which are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, have refinancing options for borrowers with credit scores below 600. If you have an existing FHA loan, you can take advantage of the FHA Streamline Refinance program to help you permanently lower your monthly mortgage payments. As long as you've paid your monthly payments on time and in full, you can lock in today’s lower refinance rates without the need for a lender to verify your income, run a credit check, or demand a home appraisal.   FHA rate-and-term refinance Aside from their Streamline Refinance program which is reserved for current FHA borrowers, you may be able to benefit from an FHA rate-and-term refinance especially if you have a high interest rate or a conventional home loan.  “Rate and term” simply refers to the ability to get a lower rate or change the loan term. In the program, the lender will require a new appraisal, do a credit check, and calculate your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Another thing you need to do to qualify is provide proof of six consecutive monthly payments that are on time and paid in full.  Just remember that unlike a cash-out refinance, the purpose of the rate-and-term program is to help you reduce your monthly housing costs, so all proceeds must be used to pay your existing mortgage and costs associated with the transaction.   VA streamline refinance VA loans are a powerful and attractive home financing option because you can refinance up to 100 percent of the home's value. They are guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and are specifically for military service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses.  If you have an existing VA mortgage, you can refinance by taking advantage of the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) to be able to lower your monthly payments. With the IRRRL, there’s no need for you to worry about your credit score and it typically does not require an appraisal, although the lender might. This is why it is also known as a VA streamline refinance because the process is simplified.  Same as with the FHA refinance programs, you must have made at least six monthly mortgage payments in order to be eligible. Just take note that some lenders might have more stringent guidelines when it comes to the said qualification.

As you enjoy the smell and warmth of pumpkin-flavored drinks and candles, pulling up some cozy sweaters as the weather grows colder, it's also important to prepare your home for the winter or colder months to prevent any costly damage later on. Fall is the perfect time to take care of little fixes, repairs, and chores that will help keep your house in tip-top shape as the season changes.  Below we've listed 10 preventative home maintenance tasks you can do now, so you can rest easy and just spend all your time cozied up inside.   1. Clean the gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and damage your roof and siding. Neglected gutters are also more prone to wood rot problems, rust, and corrosion. This is why it's important to clean the gutters and downspouts regularly, especially after summer and during fall. Remove any twigs, leaves, dirt, and other debris that may have piled up. Don’t forget to also replace any damaged gutters or downspouts to keep your roof's drainage system flowing smoothly and avoid more expensive repairs.   2. Clean and replace your furnace filter or heating system. If it has been months since you changed your furnace's filter, now’s the time to do it to keep your system running smoothly. If your filters are clogged, it’s harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, which can seriously increase your utility bills and cost you more money.    3. Inspect your roof for any wear and tear. This is a crucial maintenance task you need to do to prevent leaks that can cause bigger problems inside your home. Because once there's been a dripping, it’ll be more time-consuming to find the source of the problem. Stand in your yard and use a pair of binoculars to inspect the roof, and see if there are any loose, curled, damaged, or missing shingles. Also scan the roof around vents and chimneys for any damage.   4. Repair leaks around your windows and doors. Go around your house and inspect any missing or damaged caulk around the windows, doors, and any other entry points for pipes and wires. Then, make sure you seal any gaps with a suitable caulk to prevent moisture from getting inside your walls. Your budget will also thank you, as gaps and leaks can be accounted for higher energy bills.   5. Inspect your home's safety features. The start of fall is also a great time to check your home's carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms. Put in fresh batteries and test them to make sure they were installed correctly and are working properly. While you’re at it, clean the fire extinguishers and check for any dents, scratches, and corrosion.    6. Close any water shut-off valves of exterior faucets. To prepare your home for the colder months, especially if you live in an area with freezing weather, take the necessary steps to ensure that outside faucets don't freeze and burst. Turn off the valves serving exterior faucets, then run the water until the pipes are empty. Draining and disconnecting all garden hoses and storing them in a shed or garage will prevent any water from freezing and damaging the pipes.   7. Fix any cracks in the driveway. When the weather turns icy, damaged walkways and driveways can be a huge hazard. When water gets into the cracks it freezes, expands, and can make the crack even bigger, even if it started from a small crack. Fixing these problems in the fall is critical to make sure the concrete won't crumble and leave you with a more costly expense—i.e. a bigger hole in your driveway.   8. Clean your outdoor furniture before bringing them in. Before you pack your outdoor furniture for winter storage, make sure you clean them first as they get a good beating from the sun and other weather elements. Store the items in a garage or shed so they're all spruced up and ready for the next year’s spring and summer season.   9. Fertilize and reseed your lawn. The key to a great-looking lawn come spring, is to prepare it during the fall, especially before freezing temperatures come in. Because even if the grass stops growing around this time, the roots are actually growing deeper and remaining active. Fall is the best time to aerate your lawn so that moisture and nutrients can get into the roots. Then, spread fertilizer and grass seed.    10. Clean and maintain your garden tools before storing them, then get your winter supplies ready. This year's spring and summer seasons might have been filled with lots of gardening and yard work, especially since we’ve spent more time at home due to the pandemic. But don’t forget: all those gardening tools and equipment also need cleaning and maintenance before you get them stored for the winter.  If you live in an area with cold and snowy winters, fall is also the best time to stock up on winter supplies. Check the condition of snow shovels and ice scrapers and replace them if necessary. If you’re using a snow blower, you might also want to check it now and have it serviced.

Owning your home is one of your greatest achievements. It feels great and fulfilling—until you've got a leaky faucet. Or the paint all over your walls is peeling. Or the gutters are clogged.  Doing home maintenance and repairs can be daunting. But there isn't a house with walls you never have to repaint or roof that you never have to replace. And when your home is your biggest financial asset, maintaining it is a must. This is why you need to set aside money to take care of regular home maintenance and repairs. And no, it shouldn’t be your emergency fund, but a specific budget allocated for routine repairs and even unforeseen ones so you can keep your home in tiptop shape. Figuring out how much money you will need to save for home maintenance is also crucial if you’re a first-time buyer. Maintenance and repair costs are one of the hidden expenses of buying a home—one thing you need to consider when figuring out how much mortgage you can afford.   Home maintenance is non-negotiable. You have to perform maintenance on your property in order to prevent deterioration and slow down its general wear and tear. On the other hand, a renovation or upgrade is being done to improve or change an aspect of your home.  Your home maintenance budget should be used primarily on routine upkeep, small repairs and fixes, and prevention of bigger problems. Examples of maintenance work include: mowing the lawn, treating grass, and pruning trees, fixing leaky faucets, cleaning out gutters and vents, replacing HVAC filters, cleaning the windows and siding, power-washing your deck or patio, cleaning your dryer ducts, repainting walls, inspecting your fire extinguishers, oiling door hinges, etc. While larger projects such as remodelling a kitchen or a bathroom fall under home renovation, there are times when there might be some overlap. For example, if there's a need to replace a leaky faucet, you’d be better off upgrading it to a nicer fixture when getting the job done.   So how much should you set aside for home maintenance? While we will discuss the factors that can impact your budget later on, there are two most popular rules that you could follow when planning for maintenance costs. First is the 1% rule, which says that you should set aside 1% of the purchase price of your home for ongoing maintenance. So if your home costs $300,000, you should budget $3,000 per year. However, this rule has its limitations since market conditions impact home prices. Not to mention that it doesn't take into consideration the general condition of the property when you purchased it. This rule just gives you a safe estimate of how much you should have as maintenance savings.  Another popular rule is the square footage rule, where experts recommend to budget $1 per square foot, per year. It’s a practical estimate and slightly more consistent than the 1% rule since it’s directly related to the size of your home, and your square footage doesn’t change. This means if you live in a 3,000-square-foot home, your annual home maintenance budget would be $3,000. However, this rule also doesn’t take into account the many factors that could further affect your maintenance and repair budget.   So what are the factors to consider when setting up a home maintenance budget? Here's the list: 1. Age and condition of the home The range of your actual maintenance costs may depend largely on the age and condition of your home.  Older homes, specifically those that were built 10 to 20 years ago, generally require more work to maintain compared to homes that were built within the past decade. They're also likely to need major structural, electrical, roofing, or plumbing upgrades to keep the home up to code. If your home is less than five years old, or if it has been recently renovated, you might be able to budget less for maintenance and repairs for the first few years since most of your home’s appliances, materials, fixtures, and finishes are still new and in good working condition. The 1% rule could be your appropriate range if you have a newer home, but it could go as high as 3-4% for older homes. If you bought a new construction from a builder, you may even have an overall warranty or warranties on individual items in your property. While the warranties are still in effect, it could potentially reduce the amount you should save. However, don’t think that a new construction home is maintenance-free. Proactively taking care of your home, even if it’s new, can help you avoid future bigger problems.   2. Home size or square footage Another general rule is that the bigger your house and lot, the higher your maintenance costs. A bigger property, such as a single-family home in the suburbs, requires more upkeep than a small condo in the city or a tiny home, regardless of how much the house is worth. A larger home comes with more room and space to maintain, both in the interior and exterior parts of the home.   3. The weather or environment and location Weather plays a big role in how your maintenance can be affected. Snow, ice, temperature, humidity, sun exposure, rain damage, wind damage, and other wear and tear issues brought on by the local weather will impact the upkeep and repairs your home will need. If you live in a region with harsh winters, you might need to save more on snow removal costs. Homes in coastal areas that are often affected by storms might have a greater need for paint and roofing upkeep. Likewise, homes in humid regions are more prone to mold and mildew. It's also a different scenario if your home is located in a hurricane-prone area or in areas where there’s regular flooding. If your home is situated adjacent to a flood plain, your basement is at higher risk of water damage. These environmental and topographical variables should also be considered when setting up a home maintenance budget.   4. Building materials The cost needed to maintain your home may also depend on the building materials used. Some materials will require more or less upkeep than others, and there are some that are more prone to damage.   5. Your family size The more people are living in a household, the greater the chance of wear and tear, especially if there are small children. In this case, there might be a more frequent need for minimal touch-ups and repairs, which should also be considered when creating a budget.   Bottom line Proper maintenance and upkeep will help preserve your home's value and put you ahead of the game once you decide to sell. The key is to be proactive right from day one, rather than just relying on your emergency fund when things have already gone wrong in your home. By setting aside small, manageable amounts of money on a regular basis, you’ll be less likely to sink a large chunk of cash to cover for any unforeseen repairs, especially if you will need to pay a handyman to do the job. 

It's a given: plants are perfect living accessories. Aside from their many health benefits, they make fantastic home decorations because they can add so much life and color to any room or space. Having house plants is also another way to appreciate your home more.  If you'd love to accessorize your home with pretty, green foliage but need some inspiration on how to better do it, read on for these new and unique ideas. Soon thereafter, you will move on from the usual bar cart or garden rack filled with plants and come up with new ways you can spruce up your home.   Bookshelves aren't just for books, framed photos, and other displays and accessories. If you haven’t considered this yet, try including a plant or two to your bookcase to enrich the space and add some texture. If you want to go beyond the succulents or small potted plants, place a trailing plant on the top of the shelf to add a “living layer” and create visual interest.   Love plants but don't think you have any extra floor space? Well, the sky (or the ceiling) is the limit! Creating a garden in the air can instantly add a dreamy, bohemian look in your space. Also, setting up hanging planters at varying heights is an unexpected way to add color and visual interest. Hanging plants are also perfect if you have pets or small children and you’re afraid of them grabbing the plants on the floor or tabletop, especially since there are some plant varieties that could be poisonous to them when eaten. You can opt for some macramé plant hangers if you want that boho-chic look. Or, simply use a hook on the coat rack in your entryway or mudroom to add a hanging planter as an instant accessory.   Want to try something different? Go over the top with an enormous potted tree that can add a burst of life to your space. It's perfect if you are already tired and bored of the usual small house plants, you have a minimalist home, or if you don’t have enough space or budget for lots of plants.  Tall indoor plants and trees like palm trees, fiddle leaf fig, olive tree, or Monstera, can be a great statement or conversational piece in any room. They can add so much more floor-to-ceiling style to any space. And since trees are natural, living furniture pieces, they can complete the look of the home with the most organic feel and spruce up any space that needs livening.   One practical way to incorporate plants into your home is to use them as a room divider. They make attractive dividers especially on houses with open floor plans or layouts, and on studio apartments where you need to create defined areas within the room. Using plants is also a great way to maximize natural light and space. There are several ways you can craft a divider using house plants. You can use any standard open bookcase, cube storage unit, or rectangular planter between the spaces you want to separate and fill it with plants. You can also line small, similar plants on top of a long table or bench. Likewise, choose several tall planters with small trees or plants with broad or bushy leaves to create a lush screen that will add a lot of character to your open floor plan.   Plant life can pop in many areas of your home—even in your restroom. Especially if you're looking for ways to improve the look of your boring bathroom, adding a few potted plants can add a soft, warm layer to all the hard materials. Some plants that will feel perfect in a bathroom or walk-in shower include peace lily, sansevieria or snake plant, and spider plant. The bonus is, even if you think you have a black thumb, these plants will thrive in low light and warm temperatures. Also, the moisture created from your daily bath can help your leafy friend stay alive even with less effort.   Bring the pleasure of cooking with fresh herbs straight to your kitchen by growing your own indoor garden. The beauty of this is, even if you have limited outdoor space or have no room for a vegetable garden, you can incorporate plant decor while filling your home with the calming and fresh-smelling scents of herbs. Try planting basil, rosemary, mint, parsley, and thyme in small pots or even mason jars, and then mount them on black wooden boards that you can lean against your kitchen cabinets. You can also use individual planters that will add another pattern to your kitchen wall. This way, your plants will not only serve as cooking aides but also as wall art. Plus, those herbs mentioned above are just some of your best choices for your indoor garden since they don't grow too wide or tall.    Instead of filling that bare wall with expensive paintings or photos, why not display some greenery? Creating a gallery wall of plants is another great and unexpected way to incorporate them in your home. Adding some greenery to your blank wall can instantly add color and texture to your space. If you love succulents and cacti, they are perfect to decorate your homes with using tiny planters, as they will do well indoors and can thrive in less sunlight. To combine geometry with greenery, opt for wall planters with unusual or eccentric shapes and see how they steal the attention of anyone in the room.     Mirrors can make a room look larger and feel more open. However, large mirrors can at times be distracting. To counterbalance the effect, place a few tiny plants or cute topiaries in front of it. You can use plant pots or containers that match the color of your mirror frame for a more harmonious effect.   If you have any areas in your home that look lonely and unfilled, adding different layers of plants may actually do the trick. Instead of adding a potted plant on the stairs landing, why not place some pretty foliage on the wall flanking the stairs? If you have high cabinets with an unused empty space on top, add some planters in there to create a lush backdrop. Certainly, there are better and more innovative ways to decorate your home with plants. If you can't commit to having a mini plant sanctuary, you can always go for a few houseplants that are hard to kill and can thrive with minimal effort. Plus, plants not only make any space gorgeous, but they also have a special way of making us feel better, happy, and content just by being there.

Part 3 of Everything You Need To Know About Your Home's Value series Here are home improvement projects that may not increase the value of your property, and could even bring it down when it's time for you to sell. You might want to keep these things in mind before spending some money to renovate your home. Upscale kitchen remodel A high-end kitchen might be the ultimate gift for any home chef. Especially after several months of isolation, our kitchens might have become our comfort place. But if you think upgrading your kitchen to a “gourmet” status with a commercial stove, marble countertops, and high-end appliances will automatically increase its resale value, you might be in for a surprise.  According to Remodeling magazine's 2020 Cost vs. Value report, an upscale kitchen renovation recoups just 54% of its cost in added value. So think twice before upgrading your space into a fancy, restaurant-style kitchen whose style doesn’t fit in with the rest of the house, or the neighborhood. This kind of kitchen remodel might even deter potential buyers. Focus instead on small kitchen upgrades that could yield a bigger payoff.   Swimming pool It's a dream come true to lounge by the pool, cocktails in hand, in the comforts of your own backyard. But while you can’t put a price tag on how much joy a swimming pool will add to your home and quality of life, you might want to think twice before considering this update.  According to HouseLogic, installing an in-ground pool might only make more financial sense if you live in a state with a year-round hot or warm climate, or if you live in a higher-end neighborhood where most homes have pools. Your home’s value could only increase by no more than 7% after the pool installation, and only in certain circumstances. Not to mention, pools are expensive to install, difficult and pricey to maintain, increase your energy costs, and could even raise your homeowner’s insurance. And since a pool could also pose as a hazard, it might be a turn-off for buyers with small children. With its very minor potential value increase, a swimming pool addition may simply not be worth it.   High-end landscaping There's no doubt that landscaping can dramatically improve the curb appeal of a home. However, investing in expensive landscaping and going over the top to create what could be a backyard paradise will not increase your home’s value. Rather, it will only increase the maintenance required for it, which could be a concern to potential buyers. If you plan to sell, the sad truth is you won’t recoup the cost of the high-end landscaping in the sale.  Likewise, any fancy decorative additions you add to make your lawn more attractive may not match the buyers’ tastes. This is why it’s best to stick with keeping your garden beautiful but won’t require countless hours of work. Should you wish to add any decorative window boxes and other lawn enhancements, make sure that they can be easily removed. A well-kept lawn that is easy to maintain all-year round will certainly make a better impression than a backyard with upscale landscaping.   Sunroom addition Unless the homes in your neighborhood have sunrooms that will help you stay competitive when you decide to sell, a sunroom addition adds very little to your home's value. This project can cost anywhere from $30,000 to $70,000, making it one of the most expensive home upgrades. And yet, it has one of the lowest returns on investment, returning an average of only about 49% of money spent.  So even if a sunroom can be a great space for you to enjoy the outdoors, think carefully about how often you will use it before deciding to do this costly upgrade. Also, remember that a sunroom can also raise your energy costs in the winter and summer since glass doesn’t provide insulation.   Whirlpool tubs and other luxury bathroom upgrades Similar to swimming pools, tubs and other upscale bathroom improvements are also a gamble. Hot tubs and whirlpool baths take up space, require constant maintenance, and may result in higher monthly energy bills. Plus, home buyers with younger children might consider a tub as a safety hazard as some of them are difficult to climb into. If a hot tub is one of your must-haves, consider a portable hot tub instead of a built-in one so you could potentially take it with you when you move, or the new homeowners can easily remove it whenever they want to. Also, you might want to consider a walk-in shower that many homeowners can use frequently and will appeal to a wider pool of buyers. Further, don't get carried away by luxury bathroom additions like waterfall showers and over-personalized finishes that may cater only to buyers with specific tastes.   Too much customization We all love to make our homes better and more enjoyable to live in. However, any over-personalized or drastic renovations can hurt your home's value. Quirky tiling, wallpaper, adding textures and bold paint to walls, and other customized features will not appeal to the broadest pool of buyers. Worst, they will see it only as a distraction or as an added expense, especially if they will have to spend time and money to remodel it. So steer clear of any upgrades that are so personal or so specific that they will not add any resale value and will turn home buyers away when it’s time for you to sell your home.   Bottom Line Research before you renovate. Before doing any renovations, you need to look at your neighborhood. Look at comparable homes for sale near you and make sure the improvements you're planning to make align with the norms of your neighborhood, especially since individual markets place different values on different home improvements. And since buyers will also look at the average price of a home in your area, remember to have almost the same features or else your property will be priced out of the expected range and you won’t get your money back. Talk to an agent who is an expert in your market/neighborhood. Especially if you’re planning to list your home soon, the best way to know what you can expect in terms of resale value is talk to a real estate agent who knows your market well. They’re sure to know the local trends and can inform you about how other homes with similar features you want to add are selling. They will also help you compare your home to all the homes that have sold in the last three years to help define its value. This way, you can make an educated decision before you start a renovation that could affect your biggest investment. Never go overboard. Lastly, remember that renovations should enhance your home, not price it out of the local market. So avoid any over-the-top renovation or too much customization that could hurt your home’s value and make it a huge turn-off to potential buyers. If your heart is already set on a particular home improvement project, do it mainly for your own enjoyment but not as an investment, especially if you’re staying in the house long-term.

Part 2 of Everything You Need To Know About Your Home's Value series In the real estate industry's viewpoint, a home’s condition can be classified into four categories: poor, fair, good, and excellent. Whenever you’re considering any renovation for your home, don’t forget to ask yourself these questions first: “Am I taking the condition of my home into a ‘good’ condition?”, and “What will this update do in terms of value?”  Even if you can’t see yourself moving in the near future, home improvements have an impact on your home’s value and appraisal. And the reality is that not all remodelling projects or upgrades will increase your home’s value enough to recoup the entire cost of the improvement. In some cases, although it will add great satisfaction to you and your family, an upgrade may not increase the value of your property and may even bring it down when it’s time for you to sell. With the help of statistics from the 2020 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodelling magazine, we've listed significant home improvements that boost a home’s value:   Minor kitchen remodel Because the kitchen is considered the heart of the home, updates in this space generally pay off. A minor kitchen remodel has an average cost of more than $23,000, and recovers about 78% of your spend at resale, compared to an upscale one which has a lower return on investment. It's a key money saver and also the best choice if your space just needs a cosmetic update.  For example, putting a fresh coat of paint can go a long way in updating the look of your kitchen. Consider using low-VOC paint to make it more eco-friendly. Other projects may include replacing cabinet fronts with an updated style and adding recessed lighting to brighten the countertops. Also, small, inexpensive upgrades such as adding matching drawer knobs, cabinet pulls, and faucets can easily add a modern touch to the room but can have a big impact when it’s time to sell.   Bathroom upgrades A midrange bath remodel can recoup as much as 64% during resale. And just like with the kitchen, you can give your bathroom a face-lift just by swapping out fixtures. Simple fixes such as replacing the vanity lights, removing dated wall coverings, and replacing old shower doors can usually do the trick. To make it more energy-efficient, replace your old toilet with a low-flow model that uses less water per flush. But if your home has only one bathroom, it might be better to spend money on adding a second bath or a half-bath rather than remodelling your existing one. A new bathroom will not only improve your home's interior but can also raise its value. It might be less costly to convert any small or underutilized space, such as a walk-in closet, an area under the staircase, or an old laundry room, although it still depends largely on the items and accessories you will use. Yet, a half-bathroom is critical for homes without a bathroom on the main level, especially during this unique time where we have to keep germs from spreading into our home.   Remodel an existing space/add square footage If you can remodel and utilize unused areas, such as your attic or basement, it's a good way to boost value and add square footage to your home. You may opt to finish a basement and reinvent it into an entertainment bar, a game room, or a second living room; convert the attic space into a bedroom or a kids’ playroom; or turn a walk-in closet into a home office that’s perfect for many professionals nowadays.  This way, even if you’re planning to stay in the home for a few more years, the extra space will be enjoyed and benefit your family. And once you’re ready to sell, having a versatile room that can be converted into anything will have a great appeal to prospective buyers.   Window replacement Old, drafty single-pane windows are now a major turn-off for many potential buyers, especially if energy efficiency is in mind. This must be one of the reasons why replacing double-hung windows with insulated, low-E (low-emissivity) vinyl windows recovers about 73% of the costs, according to Remodelling magazine's report. Windows with low-E coatings help keep the temperature in a home consistent by reflecting the interior temperatures back inside. Likewise, modern windows don’t only help with energy savings but also add curb appeal to a home.   Deck, patio, or porch addition Due to previous lockdowns and stay-at-home orders caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor living spaces have become more desirable. In the latest survey of Realtor.com® and Toluna Insights on what homeowners wish they could change about their home to make it more livable while sheltering in, 9% of respondents wanted to add a yard or patio. Having plenty of yard space has become the ideal as we continue our lives under the new normal.  Adding a deck is one way to upgrade your outdoor living space and increase your home's value. While it can cost anywhere from $14,000 to $19,000 on national average, it can recoup as much as 72% during resale. Again, however, it still depends on the design and materials you use.  If a facelift is all you need, consider improving your deck or patio by adding small details such as decorative planters, lighting, and other features that will make it more attractive and also enhance your home’s curb appeal.   Entry door replacement Replacing your front door with a new steel entry door has had the best return on investment every year. It's no wonder because a home with old doors that let in plenty of hot and cold air can be a huge turn-off to potential buyers as it might be more costly to live in and maintain. According to the report, an average steel entry door replacement costs more than $1,800 and returns almost 69% at resale. More buyers will appreciate the energy efficiency, low maintenance, and cold-blocking powers of metal.   Garage door replacement On the other hand, a new garage door is one project that practically pays for itself, recouping about 95% of your costs at resale. A garage door upgrade also helps make a good impression to guests and buyers, improve security, and contribute to your home's curb appeal.   Roof replacement Replacing a roof might be considered by many as a maintenance project, and it's certainly not a show-stopping improvement like a kitchen renovation. However, it’s one update that can boost your home’s value and on average, you can recover almost 66% of its cost when it’s time to sell. Buyers also appreciate a new roof because they know it will save them the hassle and expenses brought by a new roof installation. It’s especially crucial to update your roof if it is already leaking and is nearing the end of its lifespan as it could hurt the value of your home.   Adding stone veneer Installing manufactured stone veneer doesn't only make your home more beautiful but also increases the value of your property. According to the 2020 Cost vs Value Report, this update costs an average of $9,357, but recovers as much as 96% in resale value. It’s also a versatile project that you can add in any part of your home, may it be on the front porch, around the fireplace, or as a feature wall in the kitchen or bathroom.   Basic updates like paint, minor fixes, and fixture replacements Never underestimate the power of doing basic updates to boost your home's value. Small, inexpensive projects like touching up on any flaking or chipping paint, removing dirt and mold, painting the front door, replacing old door knobs and handles, and even updating your mailbox, can help keep your home in tip-top shape that will show buyers that you have a safe and well-maintained home.   Bottom Line Kitchen and bathroom remodels continue to be the two of the best investments you can make in your home to boost its appraisal and resale value. These areas are where people spend the most time in their homes, so experts say you can almost always tell if money has been well spent or not. Also, whether your goal is to enjoy your home more or make the most return on investment when it's time to sell, remember to never go overboard and never make a space fancier than the rest of the house or the neighborhood.

PART 1 of Everything You Need To Know About Your Home's Value series Your home is your greatest asset. When you know more about your home and its value, the more empowered you are to make informed decisions regarding your property. Whether a sale is imminent or not, determining how much your home is worth will help you become ready for your next steps. When things come up or when life throws a curveball, as they say—may it be a new job in another area or you need a little help with your finances—you will be ready and can make your investment work for you. If you still aren't convinced, here are five useful reasons why you should know the value of your home:   1. Homeowners insurance When you purchased your home and drew up an insurance policy, it should have covered at least what you paid for your property. But after a few years of paying your mortgage and doing some upgrades, your home has likely increased in value. In this case, it might be time to reevaluate your homeowners insurance policy. You can set up a meeting with your insurance company for a refresher on your coverage policy. Knowing your home's value will make sure you’re covered for the cost of its full value if something were to happen.   2. Property taxes Your property tax bill is based on the assessed value of your property, and factors such as your property's size, construction type, age, and location can affect it. If you think your county or municipality has appraised your property value too high, you can appeal your tax bill.  By having a formal appraisal that will reveal the real value of your home, you can appeal the city’s assessment so you can have lower payments. The appeal process varies by area, but a written request together with the appraisal and research about recent home sales in the area will help convince the tax office that you’re paying too much in property tax compared to the market. It might sound like a hassle at first, but remember that a lower property tax bill means some savings. 3. Home equity When you know the value of your home, you'll see how much equity you’ve built up. And when you reach the point where the value of your home is more than what you owe in mortgage, you may be able to take out a Home Equity Line of Credit or HELOC. This loan uses that equity as a collateral and can be repaid on a fixed interest rate. You can use this fund to give you more financial flexibility, such as to get financing to start home improvements that will add value to your home, or even invest in a second property.  Likewise, if you’re thinking of refinancing so you can capitalize on today’s low mortgage rates, the more equity you have in your home, the better is your chance to qualify for a more desirable loan term, provided that you also qualify for other credit considerations.   4. Home improvements and repairs Knowing your home's value is also crucial to help you decide if upgrades or repairs are in order. You want to understand where your property value is starting at, as it will give you a good basis for determining what you want to do with it. You want to make sure that any improvements you make will not only make your home comfortable to live in, but will also potentially increase the value of your property.  It’s a good idea to prioritize projects that will enhance your home’s value, such as a kitchen or bathroom remodel, to ensure that the renovation costs will pay off. Also, you want to make sure that your upgrades match the other homes or “comps” in your neighborhood if a return on investment is important to you.   5. Selling your home One of the major reasons why you should know what your property is actually worth is that it can help you decide whether to put it on the market. And when you know your home's value, you can be confident in setting a sale price. You don’t want to sell your biggest financial asset for what you just think it may be worth, only to find out later that you could have gotten much more out of it. By checking your property’s value before you list it, you will know what to expect to get from the property when you sell to potential buyers.  Remember: don’t put up a ‘For Sale’ sign just because you’ve known that your home already has value in it and you think there’s more money on the table. However, if you’ve been ready to put your home on the market for quite some time now and are planning to move this year, then knowing your home’s worth will prove to be very beneficial for you.   Bottom Line The benefits of determining your home's value don’t start or end when it’s time for you to sell. Your insurance premiums, annual property taxes, refinancing options, and even applying for a home equity line of credit are all based on your home’s value.

One of the biggest advantages of homeownership is building equity over time. But what really is home equity? Read on to learn what it is, how it works, and the smartest ways you can use it to your advantage. What is home equity? In simplest terms, home equity is a homeowner's most valuable asset. It is the portion of your property that you truly “own”. Because although you’re considered the homeowner, if you borrowed money to purchase the home, your lender has an interest in the property until you pay off the loan. Your equity can be one of your biggest financial tools as a homeowner because you can tap on it later in life and make it an excellent source of funds. According to the recent Homeowner Equity Insights Report by CoreLogic, U.S. homeowners with mortgages (roughly 63% of all properties) have seen their equity increase by a total of nearly $590 billion since the first quarter of 2019, an increase of 6.5%, year over year. This means that in the first quarter of 2020, the average homeowner gained approximately $9,600 in equity during the past year.  And even with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the latter half of the first quarter of 2020, home prices continued to rise, which added to borrower equity through March. It’s a huge win for many homeowners, especially those who are looking to sell their homes this year.   3 Ways You Can Leverage Homeowner's Equity: 1. Home equity loan - This is also referred to as a “second mortgage” because the two loans function very similarly. With this loan, you’re borrowing against the equity you’ve built up in your home so the amount that you can borrow may be limited by how much you’ve paid down in your mortgage. 2. Home equity line of credit (HELOC) - This is the most flexible among the three options. With HELOCs, the loan is divided into two distinct pay periods: the draw period and the repayment period. 3. Cash-out refinance - In this kind of refinance, you borrow more than what you owe and receive the difference in funds, which can be used as you see fit.   4 Smart Ways to Use the Equity of Your Home If you've built up equity in your home over the years, there are several ways to use that asset to your advantage: 1. Make home renovations and upgrades. One of the most common uses of home equity is to invest in home improvements, especially those upgrades that will increase the value of your home and build more equity as a result. Renovation projects such as upgrading a kitchen or bathroom, adding more livable space, or updating appliances, can make your home more comfortable and elevate its condition so it will be more attractive to potential buyers. These renovations are a good return on investment since your home will sell quicker and for more money. Just remember that there are some improvement projects that can actually lower your home's value so be careful before you borrow against your equity with this purpose in mind.   2. Create an emergency fund. One of the easiest and most convenient ways for homeowners to get cash is to tap into their home equity. And it's especially helpful if you experience a financial emergency and your emergency fund has been depleted. Your home’s equity can serve as a low-interest alternative to credit cards or payday loans. Experts suggest that by setting up a HELOC before you need it, you’ll be able to access your money faster and be able to qualify for one once an emergency arises.   3. Buy a second home or an investment property. If you've owned your home for a few years, there’s a good chance you’ve already built up a reasonable amount of equity. This can be a valuable resource if you’re planning to purchase an investment property. When you use equity to buy another home, you’re exchanging that debt for another asset that can potentially produce income. Just remember that real estate investing is a risky business so make sure to weigh in all the pros and cons before tapping into your equity to buy another property.   4. Pay off student loans and other high-interest debts. Equity is a tool that homeowners can use to improve their financial situation. And aside from using it for upgrades and buying a second home, you can also use it to pay off higher interest credit cards and student loans. Some cash-out refinance loans, such as student loan cash-out refinance, are specifically priced to be used to consolidate your student loan debt and mortgage into better terms.  Likewise, because of its lower rates, a debt consolidation loan using your equity may be a more attractive option than paying higher credit card balances. It can save you money to be spent in interest over the life of the balance, depending on your debt and loan scenario. It can help improve your overall financial health as long as you're being disciplined and not accruing additional debt while paying off the existing balance.   Bottom Line Just remember that the biggest risk of tapping home equity is that your home serves as the loan collateral. This is why experts strongly advise against using it to buy a car or fund any expensive luxury or vacation. But at the end of the day, the smartest way to leverage equity still depends mainly on what you want or need to do with the funds, your credit score, financial situation, and other factors regardless of which option you choose.

In this pandemic age, our ability to go out and eat at our favorite restaurants has been limited. This is why we're becoming more acquainted with our kitchens especially in the last few months. We’re cooking more and doing a lot more cleaning since almost everyone is staying at home.  And believe it or not, there’s no need for huge renovations or DIY projects to make the heart of our home more efficient for that relentless food prep, cooking, and cleanup. We just have to do one thing—keep it organized. Here we've listed five organizing hacks to help make your kitchen activities easier and a more pleasant experience: 1. Always keep your kitchen counters clear. Freeing up space in the kitchen counters will make you feel more comfortable whenever you're starting your meal prep. So if your countertop is lined with small appliances and cooking utensils that you don’t often use, like the toaster or blender, see if you can put them away. Also, keep out all the random things that don’t belong in the kitchen countertop—toys, keys, papers, brochures, etc. Designate a special basket or tray that will become your drop zone and will help keep clutter at a minimum. By always limiting clutter on your kitchen counters, you can keep the things you frequently use more accessible to you so you can spend less time looking for stuff and more on prepping and cooking.   2. Rearrange your pantry items. By organizing your pantry items, you will always have a clear view of your most-used items and will make things easier for you to find. To effectively rearrange the contents of your kitchen cabinets, pull out everything first and perform an inventory. Place the items you use every day on eye-level shelves, and save those fancy, special ingredients you only occasionally use on the upper or lower-level shelves.   3. Keep things in your fridge neat and tidy. Experts call the refrigerator the “messiest cabinet” in the home for a reason. And with increased movements and production in the kitchen, there's never been a better need to keep things in your fridge neat and tidy. So don’t forget to clean through all your refrigerated foods. Toss everything that’s expired, any leftovers that you’re not going to eat anymore, and all other food and items that have dried out, gotten wilted or moldy. Also, give your refrigerator a good cleaning before putting everything back into place.  To further utilize your cooler space, assign plastic containers and organization bins to specific food categories for quick and easy access. Remember to also add labels and expiry dates to the containers so it’ll be easier for you to throw out expired or old items.   4. Set up zones and add labels. To easily create zones throughout your kitchen, think about everything you do there—from food preparation, cooking, to washing dishes and even brewing your favorite coffee. Then, organize the items that are used for a similar purpose in each area where you'll designate them. Introduce jars and boxes and add appropriate labels to help group these items together so you will know exactly where they’ll be when you need them next.  This organizing hack won’t only make your kitchen look orderly but will also help you avoid buying duplicate products since everything will be placed according to its specific purpose.   5. Use drawer dividers to organize cutlery and go vertical for bigger, slender items. How often do you find yourself rummaging through your kitchen drawers each time you need a specific tool or utensil? Save yourself from this hassle by using drawer dividers that will create boundaries for forks, spoons, knives, and other small baking tools and gadgets.  Likewise, use a vertical wire divider for equipment like cookie sheets, cooling racks, and muffin tins and store them vertically like books. This way, you'll be able to pull one out easily without shifting the other items.

If you're one of those who planned to buy your “dream home” early this year but decided to put it off for now due to various reasons related to the coronavirus pandemic, chances are, you’re still checking homes online. And now that we’re spending more time inside following stay-at-home orders, we’re getting to know more about our current place. We’re seeing our homes in a new light—getting familiar with the features that work and don’t work for us and our families.  So as you continue to window shop real estate, why not take this time to evaluate the features of your current home to better understand what you want in your next one? It might be difficult to find the perfect place right off the bat, but by having a list of your must-haves ready, it’ll be a huge advantage as you check for listings online. Your move might be delayed and you’re stuck where you are now because of the ongoing health crisis, but it’s a silver lining knowing there’s a perfect place for you out there. To help you finalize your next home's wishlist, here’s a list of guide questions so you can make up your mind about what you really like and don’t like about your current home:   In general: What's the one thing you like the most about your current home?   Due to quarantine, is there something you realized you hate about your place? How does it affect you?   If you could rate your home on a scale of 1–10, what would you rate it? Why?   Inside your home: How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you really want? Does your home already have enough? Do you have a new need that your current home couldn't accommodate? (e.g. a home office, mudroom, workout space, extra room for homeschooling the kids, etc.) Do you have enough storage space? Do you prefer to have more natural light, or is your place already well-lit? Are you happy with your kitchen? Is it updated and spacious enough? Since dining out is not an option because of the virus, you’re probably cooking meals more often. The kitchen is the heart of the home after all, so its size and layout is also important. Are you satisfied with the fixtures and finishes?    Outside your home: Is there an architectural style you prefer? Do you have an outdoor space? If so, do you love spending time there, especially now that we have limited exposure outside? Is there anything that needs to be improved in your home's curb appeal? Do you enjoy taking care of the yard or is it already too much to handle? Is your garage adequate? What other features you don’t have right now would you love to have? (e.g. pool, firepit, etc.) How about the home’s upkeep? How much time and effort does it take to maintain your current place?    Your neighborhood: Are you happy with your neighborhood?  Have you also thought about how your neighborhood handled the pandemic? Was there community involvement? This health crisis is bringing out the best (and worst) in every one of us. Many would want to be in a neighborhood where people take care of each other, sharing necessities like meals, toilet paper, sanitizers, groceries, and others. Some neighborhoods are even putting back their Christmas lights as a distraction for kids and as a sign of hope in this particularly dark time. Don't only think about your dream home, but also the kind of community you’d want to be in. How far do you have to travel for basic necessities, such as going to the grocery store or to the doctor for medical appointments?  Also, think about the neighborhood walkability, nearby parks, gardens, facilities, and other activities. Are you satisfied with your commute?  Despite the pandemic forcing many of us to work from home instead of going to the office, accessibility to transit networks is still important when choosing your next neighborhood.

The COVID-19 pandemic has put a stop to many of our daily activities and routines. It has also forced us to practice our “new normal”, such as maintaining social distancing and following stay-at-home orders as much as possible. Many businesses have been affected, and the real estate industry is no exception. In some markets, home buying and selling activities may have declined, so in turn moving service providers are left with fewer people wanting to relocate. However, people will continue to need to move amidst this health crisis. And if you are one of those whose move is critical right now—especially if you have to relocate for a new job, you just closed on a new home, or the home you own was recently sold—there are steps you can take to accomplish it as safely as possible. Is moving essential? According to the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA), moving has been deemed an “essential service” by the federal government. This means movers can continue to operate their businesses so you won't be left pushing your huge couch out the door on your own.  However, cities and states across the country have their own way of enforcing social distancing and restricting permitted business operations to services they deem as “essential.” So even if moving is generally an essential service, the orders may be different in your locality so it’s important to ask your realtor and do your research as much as you can. Here are some tips on how to move to your new home safely during the coronavirus pandemic:   1. Research your movers and see if they provide virtual estimates. Do your homework on the moving companies that are still operating in your area in this time of pandemic. Contact them and ask about their current sanitation procedures, whether their workers have necessary supplies, like masks and gloves; how often do they disinfect their trucks and vehicles, and other safety measures in place to protect everyone involved in the process. You may also check the moving service provider's website to view their COVID-19 policy, and then ask them directly for any questions or concerns.  Traditionally, movers will visit your home to provide a quote. But with social distancing requirements, a virtual estimate and a fully contactless service is your best bet to move safely while this health crisis is ongoing.  If you have already found a mover you want to work with, ask for a virtual estimate, which often includes a video call walk-through of the space. You may be asked to provide some measurements so they can prepare for any large furniture or tight spaces. In a virtual survey, you must take into account the size of the rooms and the items in each room. If in case you’re already halfway through your packing, inform them about the number of your boxes and the sizes/dimensions of each. Discuss with them best practices for moving day and how you can prioritize your health and safety. Also, confirm if there is a reasonable cancellation or rescheduling policy in the event that you need to change your plans. Don’t forget to make alternative plans in case the company ceases to continue operations at the time of your move.   2. Plan and pack ahead. If you can't figure out how many boxes you’ll need for your move, take advantage of packing calculators available online so you can get an estimate based on the number of rooms and people in your household. This way, you won’t have to make the extra run to the store in case you didn’t purchase enough. If you’re still in doubt, it might be better to buy a few extra. And while letting the moving company handle the packing and unpacking of your home is more convenient (although somewhat pricier), the safest option during this time is to pack your belongings yourself. You’ll be in control of handling and disinfecting each of your belongings, and you won’t have to worry about the movers touching more surfaces to limit the spread of the virus or any potential germs.    3. Buy new moving boxes instead of using free or recycled ones. In the not-so-distant past, it was normal to reuse boxes from your local grocery store or neighborhood networks to save money. However, due to concerns about the coronavirus' ability to remain active on surfaces (it can survive on cardboard boxes for as long as 24 hours), this approach isn’t recommended. The AMSA’s guide for consumers who are moving during this pandemic suggests purchasing new moving boxes and tapes from your mover. Boxes and moving containers that are already available in your home are fine, but if you need any extras, just play it safe and buy them new.   4. Wear masks, gloves, booties, and other protective clothing. Follow CDC's recommendation to wear masks, gloves, booties, and other protective equipment while you’re packing your things and even during your move for everyone’s safety and to help curb the spread of the virus. The crew members of your moving company will also likely do the same.   5. Minimize contact and practice social distancing whenever possible. If you can, designate one family member that will interact with the movers once they arrive to minimize contact. Also, make sure that everything is packed and ready even before they get into the home. Many movers also make it their new protocol to practice social distancing between themselves and their clients, so do your best to do the same.   6. Provide hygiene products and sanitizing materials. On your move-in day, be sure to leave out enough products that your movers can use in following necessary hygienic practices while they are transporting items to and from the moving truck. Place soap and paper towels next to sinks, and provide plenty of hand sanitizer by the main door. This way, even if the movers came equipped with their own supplies, you can use the supplies to wash your own hands after making contact with any surfaces. You may also want to provide other protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and face shields that everyone involved in the moving process can use.   7. Disinfect as you pack and after unpacking your belongings. Use this opportunity to sanitize every item in your home as you pack them. The same approach should also be done to your moving boxes before you put in your belongings. Disinfect everything, from books and lamps to furniture and appliances, while having your mask and gloves on.  It won't hurt to be cautious, especially since the coronavirus can be spread by asymptomatic carriers. Once the boxes and items are brought into their proper places, thoroughly clean and disinfect everything before using them again just to be safe. Likewise, wash your hands properly after handling any items the movers touched. And don’t forget to disinfect high-touch objects and surfaces after the movers leave, especially door knobs, handles, and light switches.   8. Delay your move if you or any family member is feeling sick or displaying symptoms of the virus. Don't think twice about delaying or postponing your move if you’re feeling under the weather or if anyone in your household is experiencing coronavirus symptoms. Let your mover know right away if you suspect the illness so they’ll put additional protocols into place to protect their workers. Also, inform them if you or anyone in your family is isolating or under quarantine due to exposure. Transparency is very critical, especially during these times where the health and safety of everyone involved should come first.  If you made a deposit with your moving company, contact them if they can be flexible or make an exception during this pandemic so you’ll be free to change your plans without penalty. Although rescheduling can be very inconvenient, it’s not worth putting others at risk, so delay your move until you get the all-clear from a health professional. If you or someone in your family belong to a high-risk group, such as individuals over 60 and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, reconsider moving if at all possible until the situation is more safe.   Bottom Line Moving is even more challenging during this health crisis, especially if you have kids or any high-risk family member. You and your moving company should do careful planning and take extra precautions to be able to pull it off. Our homes are our safest haven for now, so no matter how difficult the task of moving is, once you get past such a hurdle, you can focus on keeping yourself and your family safe.  

Now that we're spending more time inside to comply with stay-at-home orders and even lockdowns in some areas, here are some ideas for you to improve your outdoor space so you can soak up a lil’ bit more sunshine or simply enjoy the nightlife just outside your front door.   A hammock or any swinging chair is a simple way to update your backyard. They take up less space, and there are plenty of designs and styles to choose from that will work in almost any setting. It's also a great choice if you want to achieve that beachy vibe using a decorative accessory. Whether you put it on your porch, terrace, or patio, a hammock’s easy swinging motion is calming and it can be a relaxing way to end your day.   One way to embrace outdoor living and make your space an extension of your living room is to invest in additional lighting. Luminous decorations, such as floor or table lamps and lanterns, will not only brighten up your backyard but will also add interest to it. Just make sure to choose lamps that are designed for the outdoors and are weatherproof. Another brilliant idea is hanging pretty string lights across an entire space or along a fence to give your yard a rustic vibe.   According to Zillow's 2019 Outdoor Living Trends, there's no need to rely on matching patio sets to upgrade your space. Instead, you can mix and match your seating options to achieve that curated, eclectic look that continues to gain popularity. Pull together benches, chairs, pint-sized stools, and ottoman for a unique look. You can even add floor pillows and poufs to create extra seating in your lounge area because, who doesn’t love that lovely Bohemian feel?  You’ve got more choices than ever, and everything could potentially add some style to your patio. It’s also great if you love collecting individual pieces of furniture or if you just want a homey, vintage look. Just make sure to arrange the pieces and patterns in a way that they won’t look cluttered.   Adding textiles, such as rugs and fabrics, is an affordable update you can make to enhance texture and complement the color scheme of your outdoor space. You can also add new accent pillows, cozy floor cushions, and slipcovers to reinvigorate the area. When designing exposed spaces, remember to always check for inclement weather to make sure that any items that could get damaged make their way into storage. When possible, choose outdoor fabrics that can withstand the sun's rays and also dry quickly once weathered.   In creating your perfect outdoor oasis, it should not only be stylish, cozy, and comfortable, but also functional. It's where you would love to curl up at night with a good book and a glass of wine, or where your family will have dining al fresco on the summer days, so why not equip it with amenities that will encourage activity. In the Zillow research, fire features and outdoor kitchens are particularly popular options.  Elevate your outdoor space by installing a fireplace or fire pits, depending on your space and budget. Aside from the unlimited s’mores, a fireplace will also make your patio usable even on colder months. An outdoor kitchen is also amazing for all the summer barbeques you want to have with your family.