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Why Fall Is the Best Time for Planting

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Plating in the fall can have some major benefits for your garden. Fall is the perfect time to start a garden and plant.  In fact, marketing ploys aside, fall is the best time for planting and starting a garden!

Here are some reasons fall is the ideal time to plant perennials, shrubs and trees in your garden.

The weather is perfect for planting

Fall is cooler, which makes it easier on both the plants and gardeners. The weather is not too hot or too cold, and neither is the ground semi-frozen nor too dry. Plants won’t suffer stress because they won’t be exposed to extremes of weather. They can therefore recover quicker after planting.

Plants don’t have to be planted immediately after purchase

Planting later is better because the soil won’t be too hot or dry. It’s better to plant trees after they lose their leaves, so they can concentrate on growing roots and not spend energy growing leaves. The biggest benefit of planting in the fall is that it helps the plant to grow stronger roots, so they can have the energy and beauty for spring. It is much quicker to transition from fall to spring than to wait a whole year to see your hard work.

Reduced Maintenance Effort

This will reduce your maintenance efforts. The milder temperatures will allow you to avoid worrying about new plants, and whether they’ll survive.

Watering the plants in pots before transporting them to their new home is a good tip to help you plant in the fall. Soak up the water so they are better prepared to plant. Before planting, water the hole in which they will be placed.

You can see where to plant the best

You can see areas in your garden where you need to plant more. This is the perfect time to start planning your garden for next year and begin planting. When the plants have foliage and flowers, you’ll be able to see how they look and how much room they require. This will allow you to add color in areas that you feel need it.

Bargains in Gardening Supplies

In spring, gardening supplies can be expensive. However, they are usually cheaper in the fall. Some shops close for the winter in the fall. In the fall, you can buy non-perishables, seeds and bulbs. Gardening tools, fertilizers, pebbles and other items may be available at a discount. Also, keep an eye out for pots on sale!

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1032472-why-fall-is-the-best-time-for-planting?rtmpage=

June is National Homeownership Month!!

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The home is more than just a roof or four walls. It’s a place of comfort, security and value. Owning a home is a great investment for both individuals and their communities. However, both renters as well as homeowners are faced with challenges in securing affordable and stable housing.

According to the National Association of Realtors(r) the net value of an average homeowner is almost 40 times that of a non owner. Homeownership can also be a great way to build wealth for future generations and personal financial security. People who own their home are more likely to invest in the community.

What is National Homeownership Month ?

National Homeownership Month provides an opportunity to discuss the challenges that aspiring homeowners face, to raise awareness about illegal housing discrimination and to recognize the importance of fair Housing for everyone.

Beginning in the 1990s, President Bill Clinton declared a National Homeownership Week from June 7 through June 13. The week commemorated a nationwide push to make homeownership more accessible for all by creating market conditions that lowered mortgage rates, created more jobs and increased family incomes.

In 2002, President George W. Bush expanded the week to the entire month of June, to both celebrate the benefits of homeownership and call attention to the ongoing racial disparities among American homeowners.

The White House issued a new Proclamation last year to celebrate National Homeownership Month and reaffirm its commitment to housing equity. The proclamation reads: “Whether owning, renting, or aspiring to do either, we renew our commitment to lowering costs and expanding access to safe, affordable homes that all Americans need and deserve,” reads the proclamation.

We’re here to help you if you have any questions about buying a house or are a new homebuyer.

Original Blog: https://www.bairdwarner.com/2023/06/01/june-is-national-homeownership-month/#:~:text=National%20Homeownership%20Month%20is%20an%20opportunity%20to%20address,Homeownership%20Week%20from%20June%207%20through%20June%2013.

Ways to Take Your Curb Appeal to The Next Level

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You can add curb appeal to your house with these simple upgrades that you can complete in one day, a weekend or a month. From replacing your mailbox to refreshing your garden, there are many options. If your home’s curb appeal makes a great first impression, everyone (including potential homebuyers) will want to see what’s inside.

Replace Old Hardware

House Numbers, an entry door lockset and a wall mounted mailbox are just a few of the elements that can enhance your home’s curb appeal. If they are outdated or dirty, it may not be the look you want. The most effective way to use these elements is as a cohesive group, rather than as individual pieces. The oil-bronze finish is best for traditional houses while the brushed nickel finishes are better suited to more contemporary homes.

Install Window Boxes

Window boxes are a quick and easy way to add color and charm to the curb appeal of your home. For a more traditional look, choose boxes made of copper or iron. Choose painted wood to give your display a cottage look. You can mix and match plants and flowers depending on the color scheme of your home and whether or not you receive full sun.

Paint the Front Door

The front entrance of your home is the main focus for curb appeal.  Give your front door a new look with paint or a wood door. Use metal polish to clean off any dirty spots on the knob and door fixtures. Choose a wreath, swag or flag that matches your home’s style.

Create Perfect Symmetry

It’s easy to arrange a symmetrical layout. Light fixtures and accents on the front door can be arranged in a symmetrical way to create welcoming entrances, and increase curb appeal. Lantern-style wall sconces guide guests safely to the front door. They can also coordinate with the hardware and urns.

Dress Up Your Porch with Seating

You can use a bench or small chair on the porch as a place to rest or remove dirty shoes. You can also increase curb appeal by adding comfortable outdoor seating. This will encourage people to interact with their neighbors and take part in street activities.

Install Outdoor Lighting

Low-voltage landscaping lighting can have a significant impact on the curb appeal of your home, while also improving safety and security. Accent lighting can be used to highlight trees, the house or a path. Plan to use a variety fixtures and lighting styles for the best landscaping lighting. Install solar lights if you can’t use fixtures that require wiring. Solar outdoor lights are easy to install and affordable.

Do a Mailbox Makeover

Mailboxes are a great way to express your personality and complement the house. Choose a style that complements your home trimmings if your mailbox is attached. If your mailbox is closer to the road you can surround it with beautiful flowering gardens . This will instantly make your yard look more inviting and approachable. Consider painting your mailbox and post in a color that matches your home, or adding vinyl decals with your address.

Add Shutters or Accent Trim

Shutters, trim and other decorative elements can add beauty and curb appeal. Exterior shutters are available in wood or aluminum, as well as composite, fiberglass, and vinyl. Trim details can be made durable and low-maintenance using composite materials such as PVC or polyurethane.

Replace Gutters and Downspouts

It’s likely that your gutter system is old and in need of maintenance . Peeling paint, rust marks, drooping gutters and other issues indicate that repair or upgrading is required. Replace the old gutters with new ones.

You can save money by installing your own vinyl gutter system. They are known to crack and become brittle in cold weather. Copper systems are more expensive, but they have a beautiful curb appeal and a look of quality.

Add Arbors or Fence Panels

The curb appeal and garden of your home will be enhanced by arbors, garden gates and short sections of decorative fencing panels. These simple additions will provide a beautiful backdrop for your garden. Kits are easy to assemble or come in prefabricated sections you can connect. Paint or stain the items in colors that match your home.

Add Outdoor Art

Add some whimsy to your yard by incorporating artwork that is resistant to the weather. Select pieces that compliment your home’s exterior and natural color palette. Outdoor art can include metal cutouts and sculptures. Birdbaths are a great option, and feature nice colorful designs. The gurgling sound of water sculptures can be soothing on hot days and help to cool you down. Place water fountains in an area with good visibility and hearing.

Upgrade Railings

If not maintained properly, porch and stoop railings will deteriorate very quickly. If your railings have reached their peak, replace them with quality wood or metal components and increase curb appeal. The color, size, design, detail, and material should all be compatible with your home’s primary features. Porch railings are a key component of the exterior aesthetic of a house, and help to enhance its style.

Renew Paint, Siding, and Trim

A new exterior update, such as paint, siding or trim, can instantly transform the appearance of a house. Maintaining exterior surfaces is the best way to maintain your home’s curb appeal. A home’s curb appeal can be negatively affected by visible defects such as cracked or decayed material. This will turn off potential buyers. After repairing the weaknesses, add color to trim or shingles.

Dress Up the Driveway

You can upgrade or clean up your driveway if it is cracked, stained or has plants growing on the surface. Then, you can dress up the driveway by applying a stain to the concrete. Add stone, pavers, or bricks to the side of your driveway to make it wider. This will give you more space to park or move around. Setting off a driveway by creating a clear, crisp transition between the paved and non-paved surfaces will enhance curb appeal.

Build a Walkway

A well-designed pathway can make your home more inviting and warm. Replace a concrete path with a stone or a brick curved pathway to make a dramatic difference. Apply a colored concrete resurfacer and then border it with bricks or stones. Brick paving adds a classic, traditional look to any landscape.

Original Blog: https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/exteriors/curb-appeal/ways-to-add-curb-appeal/

The Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Home

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It’s spring, so it’s the perfect time to get your house in order and give it a deep clean before allergy season. The spring cleaning season is the best time to organize your home and get rid of all the junk that accumulated over the winter.

However, this isn’t the only time your home should get a good scrub. “The parallel is to bathing and showering. Clean your home as often as you wash your hands and body,” says Allen Rathey, director at Indoor Health Council, an organization that connects cleaning with public health. “How often do you wash hands, bathe or shower? What level of detail? It’s really ‘spring cleaning’ time all year round depending on how dirty your body or home gets.”

Here is a checklist of spring cleaning tips and tricks from professionals to help make your spring cleaning easier.

  • Regular cleaning is important.
  • Clean your house with new cleaning products
  • Declutter.
  • Deep clean indoors.
  • Do not overlook the safety and security features of your appliances, systems, and home.
  • Refresh your outdoor area.

The importance of regular cleaning

Cleaning is an important part of maintaining healthy, happy and comfortable living spaces. Cleaning can remove allergens, dirt and other pollutants which can accumulate with time. It can also improve your mental health.

Rathey says that a regularly cleaned home will last longer, be healthier and smell better. Less dirt and moisture reduces bacteria that cause disease and odors. Hard and soft flooring wear less when there is less grit. “Resettling and airborne dust reduces respiratory exposure, HVAC maintenance and air purifier clogging.

Renew Your Cleaning Supplies

It’s time to restock your cleaning essentials and give them a thorough overhaul before you begin cleaning. Courtney Klosterman is a home insights expert with insurance company Hippo. She says that you should ditch toxic cleaning supplies for a healthier, cleaner and safer home. Klosterman suggests replacing them with cleaners that comply with the Safer Choose standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Before you begin your spring cleaning, make sure that you have the following items:

  • Microfiber cloths.
  • Rubber gloves.
  • Duster.
  • Vacuum cleaners with attachments.
  • Brooms and dustpans
  • Mop.
  • Carpet cleaner
  • Scrub brush.
  • Garbage bags.
  • Castile soap or dish soap
  • All-purpose cleaner.
  • Window and Glass Cleaner
  • Baking soda.

Declutter

When you do your spring cleaning, you can also declutter and remove items that you no longer need or use. Cleaning expert Armeka Townsend is a senior consumer relations representative for Zep. She says clutter can make your house feel disorganized and chaotic.

By implementing the one year rule, you will be able to evaluate an item more objectively. You probably don’t want or need something if you haven’t used it in the last year. Townsend suggests that you donate, sell or recycle the items in order to make your home more functional and streamlined.

Deep Clean Indoors

Open your windows and start cleaning from the top.

  • Dust. Dust, debris, and other particles usually fall from higher surfaces. According to Townsend it is important to clean these first. She says to start by dusting the ceiling fans, shelves and light fixtures, and then move onto furniture and countertops. “Finally clean your floors. Make sure you mop or vacuum them thoroughly in order to remove all dirt.”
  • Glass. Clean glass with old T-shirts or socks, or newspaper. These items will help you clean glass without streaks. Klosterman suggests that you can make your own DIY glass cleaner by mixing equal parts of white vinegar with water, shaking it and wiping the surface. You can use a mild soap, water, and a microfiber towel.
  • Walls. Scuff marks on walls can be removed with soap and water. For tougher spots, use a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
  • Floors. Even on carpets, mold can grow quickly and unnoticed in the winter months. Klosterman suggests using a carpet cleaning product to remove excess moisture and thoroughly clean your carpet.
  • Furniture. Furniture is a magnet for heat, sweat and dirt. Klosterman recommends using a steamer designed for furniture and upholstery to deep clean.
  • Grout. Try an extendable scrubber to reach those germy areas without straining or overworking your back.
  • Mattresses and bedding. Vacuum the mattress. All bedding . “Vacuum both the top and side of the mattress using the upholstery attachment. Klosterman recommends that if your mattress has an odor or is stained, sprinkle baking soda on top and let it rest for 30 minutes. Then vacuum it up. To extend the life of your mattress, turn it 180 degrees around or flip it.

Do not forget areas which are usually neglected. Townsend states that some areas of your house may not be regularly cleaned, but dirt and grime still accumulate. Be sure to clean the baseboards and air vents as well as window tracks, and spaces beneath and behind appliances. To remove dust and allergens, you may want to clean your carpets, upholstery and curtains. “Don’t forget to clean the doorknobs and handle as well.”

Do not overlook your home’s critical systems, appliances and safety features

Spring cleaning is the ideal time to inspect your major appliances and systems.

  • Plumbing. Klosterman suggests checking for signs of issues, and water damage in areas such as under sinks and the basement. He also recommends pouring white vinegar distilled down drains twice a month and into dishwashers to prevent clogs. Check and drain the water heater for any sediment build-up.
  • Appliances. Vacuum dust and dirt off your refrigerator coils. Do not forget to clean your dryer and washer. Klosterman explains that the leading cause of fires in homes involving washing machines and dryers is dust, fibers or lint accumulation inside the dryer exhaust vent. Hippo’s Housepower Report 2022 revealed that homeowners are hesitant to clean the dryer exhaust vent.
  • HVAC. Replace the air filter in your HVAC, or schedule your biannual service with a technician.
  • Safety. Check to make sure that smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers are working properly. Have a professional clean and inspect your fireplace every year.

Refresh your outdoor space

You cannot forget about the outside as warmer weather approaches. It’s time to prepare your garden for spring.

Townsend says, “Clean your patio furniture thoroughly. Remove any debris on your deck or balcony. Check for any repairs or maintenance that may be needed.” You may want to also add new plants or decor to create an inviting atmosphere.

  • Gutters. Leaves and other debris should be removed from your gutters. Klosterman advises: “Use a ladder to reach those hard-to-reach places and check for any possible points where clogging may occur. Then, using gloves, remove visible debris.”
  • Siding. Consider painting your home. Klosterman says that painting and sealing siding will keep out pests and stop leaks and mold. Make repairs to your home as soon as possible if you notice any signs of damage.
  • Trim the trees. Storms and high winds can knock down entire trees or limbs, causing damage to your property. Klosterman recommends a quick walkthrough in order to remove any branches that are touching or hanging over your roof. Trim trees that are overhanging or encroaching near gutters and rooflines to prevent damage.
  • “Lawn Equipment Maintenance”: “ Clean up your lawn machinery, and remove any debris from last year,” Klosterman advises. Check your lawnmower’s oil level and whether or not the blades have become dull. If necessary, replace any worn or dull components.
  • Grilling season is almost here. Grab the grill. Give your grill a good scrub. Klosterman recommends using a grill brush to clean the grill plate. A damp rag can be used to clean the outside.

Original Blog: https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/spring-cleaning-checklist-for-your-home

Selling your home in the spring is easy with these 15 tips

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The spring is the best time to sell your home. In the spring, regardless of whether the market is hot or cold, the inventory will almost always increase because most buyers are actively looking for a home in April, May and June. Take your house off the market if it has been on the market for a long time. Allow it to cool for a couple of weeks before you put it back on sale.

No one will look at your house in the spring months after it has been listed. The days on market is important to home buyers, because they gravitate towards new listings. There are a few other ways to make your home stand out from the new listings that flood the spring real estate market. 1

 

Sell Your Home This Spring with These 15 Tips

Try these tips to sell your house during the springtime.

 

Cleaning Windows and Mirrors

It is important to wash your windows thoroughly and polish all of the mirrors. Sparkle sells houses and is free. Your home may seem inviting to a potential buyer, but they will be drawn in if your windows are clean and your mirrors reflect the sunlight. The first step to selling your home is cleaning.

Yard Cleanup

Trim the bushes, rake your yard and remove dead leaves from the lawn. Overgrown vegetation should not block windows or the path to the front door. By cutting back bushes and trees, you can let more light into your home and show off the outside.

Lawn Mowing

A lawn that is well-maintained will give you an advantage and show buyers that you are attentive to the smallest details. Cut your lawn in a diagonal pattern to make it appear bigger. Use a weed-eater to get around the driveway and sidewalk edges.

Buy Flowers

Yellow flowers are known to stimulate the buying impulse. Everyone is eager to see signs of spring after a long, cold winter. Yellow tulips, daffodils and other flowers can bring happiness and satisfaction. Arrange the containers in groups of 3 or 5 near the entrance.

Clean Drapery

You can either dry clean your window coverings or you can wash, dry and press them. Blinds can be washed in a bathtub with soap to remove dust and spiderwebs. The crisp linens and the spring breeze that blows through the windows will bring the season indoors.

Set Out Flowers

Natural scents, such as those of freshly-cut peonies or lilac branches, are more attractive than synthetic ones. Also, they trigger fewer allergic reactions in those who are susceptible. The peony vase is designed to hold the peonies upright, but you should wash them first to prevent ants from entering. Clever home staging brings color, fragrance and beauty indoors.

Polished Floors

If necessary, your hardwood floors need to be refinished. Clean all area rugs and make your ceramic or linoleum floor sparkle. Bleach dull grout and give it a new shine.

Use towels, throws and pillows

You can purchase inexpensive accents like throws, sofa pillows, towels and linens even if you have to replace items. Soft spring colors will brighten up any room. Place rolled washcloths in a pyramid on the counter and layer towels on towel racks.

Place outdoor mat and umbrella stand

Spring weather can be unpredictable no matter where you are. It can snow in some states and be 72 degrees the next day. Give buyers a place where they can store their umbrellas, and let them wipe their shoes before entering. For protection, some sellers place plastic runners on the floor. However, this can ruin a sparkling polish job.

Buy Balloons

Helium balloons are available at very low prices in party and stationery supply shops. Buy a dozen balloons and attach them to your open-house signs. They will create excitement and make your home more visible to home buyers.

Print flyers and financing material

Do not skimp on the marketing materials for your home. Color is more noticeable than black-and-white when you want to get homebuyers to choose your flyer from the many they may pick up. Give homebuyers 2-3 options for financing to show them how easy it is to afford your home. When buyers are considering buying a house, the first thing they think about is their monthly mortgage payment. Make sure they know what you’re doing.

Use color photos for advertising

Include a color photo in your advertisement to spend a bit more money on advertising online and in newspapers. A picture is worth 1,000 words. Search through your photo albums for a photograph that shows off your home in the best light.

Mail Postcards with a UV Coating

You can get a list of nearby neighbors for free by contacting a local title firm. Print large-sized postcards with color and a UV coating for a marketing boost. Use first-class stamps to finish it off.

Offer Chilled Bottled water

Place a dozen bottles of water or more in an ice sink for the buyers. You can tape your own labels, which you printed on your computer and include your name, phone number, address, and a photo.

Set out Treats

Consider giving buyers a snack when they tour your home. This will allow buyers to spend more time in your kitchen admiring the elegant details that they might have otherwise overlooked. Wrap the treats individually in cellophane, and then tie a ribbon around it.

 

Original Blog: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/top-ways-to-sell-your-home-in-the-spring-1799025

Texans Who Have Left The Big City Behind

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John Nova Lomax , a writer for our August 2018 issue, explored the migration of younger Texans from the big cities to the small towns in our state. For a variety of reasons, including space and a lower cost of living, as well as to be closer to their families, many are making the move. Below are the stories of a few such Texans I spoke to.

Celine Ord, 36, Radiation Oncologist, Fredericksburg

“We wanted to move back to Texas to be closer to our family and friends. If you’re a Texan, you always come back. Although we had planned to return to Austin, the perfect job opportunity presented itself in Fredericksburg. How could we refuse an opportunity to live in such beautiful town? We were thrilled to be able to bring our baby girl back to Texas after having her.

People are friendly, kind, and welcoming. It is a charming little town with many big-city amenities such as great restaurants, wineries, shops, and other amenities. You can’t beat the absence of traffic. You get to know people here because it is much more simple and less stressful. You feel part of the community and have a strong desire to help it. It brings out the best.

Brent Humphreys 42, Photographer, Taylor

Growing up, my dream was to own a property in the Hill Country. It was the idea of being able travel to your home and relax in nature. My family owned a small property in East Texas, near Mineola, when I was growing up in Dallas. I was inspired by the memories to find open space and land to explore with my kids.

After I moved to Austin I began looking for opportunities in the west. Because it was less populous and there were plans for the 130-mile toll road, I decided to look to the east. Taylor was home to a six-acre midcentury house on six acres. Eileen Gill, my friend and realtor, was the first to call me. We couldn’t believe the asking price. We were quick to mobilize the next morning.

After seeing the house and driving around town, I knew it was my deal. The small-town charm, rich heritage and history, as well as the strong sense of community are all things I love. It’s the calmness and connection you have with your neighbors and the larger community that I love. Taylor is an amazing place for James and me to raise our sons.

Alyson Fox 38, Artist/Designer Spicewood

“About eight years ago, our family bought land in Spicewood and built a home. We had planned to build an addition to our Austin house, but we started to think about other options. We had always wanted to build a house, but we decided to get it done sooner than expected. We were both eager to have more space so we started looking for land ourselves. It all clicked when we found the plot we wanted to purchase. Both of us are happy at home and enjoy socializing, but we also value peace and quiet, so moving outside of Austin seemed right. Both of us felt that we would both gain more than we would lose. I enjoy going on long, quiet walks outside our front door. It’s a great way to see more stars at night and it gives me the ability to be resourceful even when I don’t feel like going to town.

 

Original Blog:  https://www.texasmonthly.com/the-culture/texans-whove-made-small-town-leap/

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