Understanding the Stages of Remodeling

Are you thinking about buying a fixer-upper? Or maybe you’re finally ready to move forward with a home remodeling project? Whatever your plans, it’s good to know what to expect before you begin.

Home remodeling projects can be complex and sometimes its seems the end is never in sight. But if you go into the process armed with knowledge, it will be much less stressful for you and your family. Here are the major stages you can expect to move through on your way to a completed project.

Stage 1 –Planning

The key to a successful remodeling project is to stay organized. This means having a firm plan in place before you begin. Planning includes:

• Design – Make decisions before you begin about what your project is going to be and what the details of the design are. If you are hiring professionals, they will provide architectural plans. If you are completing the project by yourself, you should at least try to sketch out your ideas onto paper so that everyone involved is on the same page before you begin.
• Budget – Before you begin tearing down walls, decide what your budget for the project will be, and how you will stay within that budget. Be sure to include all the appropriate costs, such as new appliances and construction materials, and even new paint or wallpaper.
• Prepare – If you’re hiring professionals, research and interview contractors. Apply for and secure any permits that are needed to complete the renovation.

Stage 2 – Demolition

Once your preparations are complete, it’s time to move on to the next phase – demolition. During this stage, you or your contractors will be ripping out anything that needs to be removed and replaced. This can include walls, ceilings, cabinets, windows and floors. If you feel comfortable doing this yourself, you can save some money. If not, leave it to the pros – especially if any areas being demolished contain asbestos or lead-based paint.

Stage 3 – Construction

Depending on how large your project is, you may need to temporarily relocate during this phase of the remodel, especially if you’ll be without water or electricity for any length of time. Some of the work that is completed during this stage can include:

• Creating framing for new walls
• Adding beams to support new weight
• Putting in new doors or windows
• Installing electrical, plumbing and HVAC
• Adding insulation and hanging drywall
• Installing new flooring
• Adding finish work such as paint, wallpaper and other finishes
• Adding new exterior siding and gutters

Stage 4 – Cleaning Up

Once construction is complete, you may think you’re finished. But wait! There’s one more important step before you’re done and that’s cleaning up. You can expect the contractors you hire to do some basic cleaning, but to make your home truly livable and beautiful again, you’ll need to get in there and really clean. This includes removing all the dust and debris that has accumulated.

Once your cleaning is complete, it’s time to move back in. This is the fun part, where the renovations you’ve been dreaming about are finally a reality. Enjoy unpacking and moving into your freshly remodeled space!

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Make Your New House Feel Like Home

Your house isn’t just a financial investment or the place where you keep your stuff – it’s where you live your life. And moving into a new house can feel a little disorienting at first. It takes awhile to get settled in – there are all sorts of new sounds and smells and sights that can feel foreign for the first few weeks or months.

If you’re feeling a little out of sorts in your new place, there are things you can do to get it feeling like home in no time. Here are some of our favorite suggestions.

Give yourself a cozy place to sleep

Moving is exhausting – packing and unpacking and a million little details to remember, like when the cable is being set up and making sure you get the mail forwarded. Do yourself a favor and get your beds set up first thing. Even if it means simply having a mattress on the floor, put on your nice sheets, have plenty of pillows and set up a light next to it so you can read a little before drifting off to dreamland. There’s nothing more revitalizing than a good night’s sleep.

Set up the bathroom

Another top priority is getting the bathroom set up. This is the room where you begin and end your day, so it’ll set the tone for your mornings and nights. Give it a good scrub, hang up a shower curtain, put out your fluffiest towels and stock plenty of toilet paper and toiletries. Pamper yourself a little with an aromatic candle and bust out the good soaps – you know, the ones you got on your vacation three years ago that you’ve been saving for a special occasion. This is that occasion.

Get the pets settled

Moves can be stressful on your pets, so help them get settled in. Choose a place for their beds and litter boxes and get them on a regular feeding schedule as soon as possible. If you have a dog, take him for a walk and introduce him to the neighborhood. Setting up a morning and evening walking routine will help you both get settled in more quickly.

Stock the kitchen

While there is a certain charm to eating pizza off of paper plates for a few nights in a row, your house will feel more like a home when you can prepare a meal there. Go to the market and stock up on fresh foods. Get the coffee maker set up and brew your morning cup at home. If you don’t have your table set up, designate a spot where you eat your meals – like a stack of boxes – and dress it up a little with a pretty cloth and a candle.

Plan a party

Unpacking everything can drag on and on, so give yourself a deadline by scheduling a housewarming party. This will motivate you to get settled and get you over that uncomfortable hump more quickly.

Spend time there

There’s a reason why people often say “time heals everything” – it really does. That’s doubly true for making your new house feel like a home.  Make it a priority to spend time in your new place reading, cooking and hanging out. Pretty soon, it’ll start to feel like yours.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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How To Pick the Perfect Paint Color

Does choosing the perfect paint color for your home to feel a little bit like finding Bigfoot – mythical and elusive? Do you stare at the racks and racks of paint chips at the hardware store and break out into a cold sweat? Are you worried that you’re going to pick a color, paint the walls and end up hating it?

Don’t worry – we’ve all been there. Color can have a big impact on the feel of a room, so it can be a little intimidating if you feel like you don’t know what you’re doing. Here are some pointers to get you started and to ensure you’ll have a finished product that you love.

Choose an inspiration piece

Do you have a favorite throw pillow? Did you happen across a picture in a magazine that speaks to you? Maybe you have a dress that makes you feel special every time you wear it. Chances are, the colors in those pieces have a lot to do with why you’re drawn to them, so why not use them as inspiration? Choose a color or two from the palette and go from there. In fact, Sherwin Williams has a great online tool called Snap It that lets you turn any online image into a personalized paint palette so you can easily match the colors at the store.

Start small

If you’re new to the color game, then it’s probably not the best idea to dive in by painting your biggest room first. Why not practice in a smaller space? Give your powder room, a hallway or even a closet a makeover with a fresh coat of paint. You’ll have a better idea of how certain colors affect the feeling of a space and how the light in the room can change the color depending on the time of day.

Determine the mood you want to set

There’s no denying that color and mood go hand and hand, so think about the mood you want to create in a room when you choose what color to paint the walls. Do you want to evoke a cozy feeling in the bedroom? Maybe you want the foyer to be bright and cheerful? Do you want people to feel sociable in your dining room? Choose colors for those rooms that evoke the feeling you’re hoping to create.

Incorporate what you already have

If there are aspects of the room you cannot change – for example, that beautiful wooden heirloom dining table from grandma or the custom slate tile in your bathroom – make sure you take those existing colors and finishes into account when choosing your paint colors. Let these pieces help guide you in your choices so that the room is coordinated once it’s complete.

White is perfectly acceptable

If choosing new paint colors is stressing you out, remember – white is a perfectly acceptable color that goes with everything. It’s okay to skip the endless deliberations and go with something classic and easy. Sometimes the best way to add color is through furnishings such as pillows and throw rugs, which require less work and commitment.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

Compliments of Virtual Results

Keep Pests at Bay

Spiders and roaches and flies, oh my! If bugs give you the heebie-jeebies, you definitely don’t want them in your home. Not only can they be unsanitary, some pests can actually cause real damage. And then there are the insects that sting and bite, like wasps or scorpions. Obviously, they’re not welcome!

While it may feel like bug-proofing your home is a battle you’ll never win, there are some things you can do to stem the flow. Here are our tips for keeping pests at bay.

Keep spiders out of the basement

If spiders are a problem in your basement, you can seriously reduce their population by using a dehumidifier. Maintain a humidity level of 40 percent and regularly clean out the cobwebs from the ceiling and windows. In just a few weeks you’ll see a noticeable reduction in your eight-legged friends.

Starve the roaches

There’s nothing worse than flipping on your kitchen lights at night and seeing roaches skitter under the cabinets. The best way to banish them forever is to starve them out. Be vigilant about cleaning up every crumb of food from floors, countertops, and inside cabinets. You must also remove their access to water, so fix leaky faucets and keep pet water dishes elevated. There are also a variety of roach killers on the market to help you tackle this particular problem.

Seal doors and windows

Gaps around doors and windows make it easy for tiny pests to enter your home. Install a threshold under each door to the outside and add weatherstripping around doorframes and windows. Make sure all windows have screens and patch any holes no matter how small they seem. The bonus? You’ll also save on energy costs.

Plug gaps and cracks

Check the exterior of your home for any gaps or cracks that insects and pests can climb through. This includes cracks in the foundation, holes ingrates and missing shingles on the roof. Seal openings with wire mesh, sheet metal, mortar or even steel wool.

Keep a lid on it

Trash and recycling cans can be a huge magnet for pests of all kinds. Make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids and clean them regularly.

Maintain your yard

Remove debris from your yard and patios and get rid of standing water, which can be a breeding ground for mosquitos. Keep your gutters clean so then can work effectively. If you have a pool, make sure it stays clean and chlorinated. Regularly clean and refill birdbaths to keep mosquito eggs from hatching in them.

Keep drains clear

Drains in sinks and showers can accumulate some pretty serious gunk, which is attractive to many pests and gives them the perfect place to breed. Regularly clean all sink and floor drains, especially in the basement or laundry room.

By tackling the conditions that invite pests into your yard and home, you’ll be well on your way to reducing their populations and preventing a simple nuisance from becoming a real problem.

If you would like any referrals for a pest inspectors, please give us a call at the number below.

Stan Rector

805-577-7902

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

 

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10 Creative Uses for Rugs

Think that throw rug is only for the floor? Think again! There are so many ways to use beautifully designed rugs around the home; it’s a shame to let them languish on the floor. Here are some of the most inspired ways we’ve found to use your favorite rugs.

1. Soften stairs with a runner

Runners don’t have to be saved for hallways. They’re a perfect solution to soften a staircase. Take it a step further by choosing a strong geometrical pattern that’ll amp up your style.

2. Make a stylish pillow

Small rugs are the perfect size to transform into statement-piece pillows for your couch or bed. Simply fold in half, insert a pillow and stitch it shut. Don’t have sewing skills? You can glue them together with fabric glue. Done!

3. Instant wall art

If you’ve got a big, blank wall staring you in the face, why not ditch several small, framed pieces for one large bold piece? So many rugs are designed with beautiful colors and patterns it’s a shame not to treat them like the art they really are. Go ahead and fill a wall with a graphic rug you really love.

4. Upholster a chair or headboard

Decorative rugs are the perfect weight to use as upholstery fabric, so why not turn a chair or ottoman into a statement piece? The same goes for headboards. Fabric headboards have become hugely popular, so use a pretty rug to make it both soft and beautiful.

5. Use it as a throw

Lightweight rugs can be just the perfect size to use as a throw on your bed or couch.

6. Trade up your yoga mat

Who wants a plain old spongy yoga mat when you can have a more comfortable and stylish one? Be the envy of your class by using a soft runner with a rubber back for your next yoga session.

7. Dress up a table

Pretty blankets have become a popular alternative to tablecloths. Why can’t rugs be, too? A lightweight rug makes the perfect topper for your next dinner party. If you have smaller area rugs, you can also turn them into placemats.

8. Soundproof doors

Why settle for plain white interior doors? Go a step further and dress them up with a decorative rug. As a bonus, it’s the perfect way to add extra soundproofing to a bedroom or office.

9. Make a pet bed

Don’t limit the fun to just the humans. If you’ve got a rug, you love that has seen better days, why not turn it into a pet bed for your dog or cat? Rugs can stand up to the abuse a pet can dish out. Simply fold your rug in half, fill with stuffing and stitch, or stitch two complementary rugs together to add variety.

10. Turn your world upside down

Ever feel like dancing on the ceiling? Think how much easier it will be if you attach a rug! Seriously, though, ceilings can be so boring, wouldn’t it be fun to attach one of your favorite rugs? This can work especially well over a bed, so you’re always sure to enjoy it. It can also add soundproofing should there be another room over yours.

Don’t be afraid to step outside the box when it comes to your favorite rugs! Whether you use them as upholstery, art or something else, let your imagination be your guide.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

Compliments of Virtual Results

Make Room for Baby

Is your family soon growing from two to three – or even four? Then it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to make room for the newest addition to your tribe. If you aren’t sure how to find space for a baby in your home, here are some ideas to get you started.

Get rid of unneeded clutter

Babies may be small, but their stuff isn’t. You’ll soon find yourself swimming in onesies, stuffed animals, and car seats. Before the baby’s arrival, do a thorough purge of items in your home that aren’t needed. Clear out closets, find what’s hiding under the bed that you forgot about and opened up those storage boxes. Sell or donate items that are still in usable condition.

Look for new storage possibilities

You may feel like you’re already maxed out on space, but you’re going to feel even more cramped once there’s another small person in your home. Take a good look around and see how you can better organize and store what you do have. Can you add shelves to the top of the closet? Is there any room under the stairs for storage containers? Are you using all your wall space to its fullest potential?

Minimize baby stuff

You may have dreamed of a state-of-the-art nursery for your new little bundle of joy, but if you’re short on space that may not be a practical idea. Many companies now make small-size solutions for babies, including mini-cribs, collapsible bathtubs, and car-seat/stroller combos.  Remember – these are all items you won’t use forever, so it isn’t necessary to buy the biggest and best of everything.

Don’t register for too much

Friends and family may be even more excited about their new family member than you are, and may want to show that enthusiasm by purchasing every item on your registry. Be realistic about what you need, and encourage people to avoid buying any large or bulky items that aren’t on your registry.

Share a room with parents or siblings

Not all families have the luxury of having a room dedicated just for the baby. In this case, you may want to consider having the baby share a room. If you already have younger children in your home, the baby can easily share with a sibling. If not, many people opt to set up a crib in the corner of their rooms – which can be kind of nice when stumbling out of bed at three a.m. to comfort a crying baby.

Convert an extra room to a nursery

If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room already in your house that you’re using as a guest bedroom, office or workout space, then making room for a baby will be easy. Clean Out the old furniture and have fun turning the room into a baby’s paradise, tricked out with all the bells and whistles like a changing station and a rocking chair for late-night feedings.

If you’re getting ready to welcome a new addition to your family – congratulations! With a little creativity and forethought, you can find a way to make room for a baby in your home, even in the smallest of spaces.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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How To Merge Styles in Your New Home

Is it time to take the big leap and move into a new home with your partner? No doubt you’re excited about this milestone in your relationship. You’ll now have someone to share the ins and outs of your day-to-day life.

But have you stopped to consider what this means regarding all the stuff you’ll now share – including all the items you use to decorate your space that makes it feel like home? If you and your partner have similar styles, that’s great. Moving in together and merging your belongings shouldn’t be too difficult. But if you and your partner have vastly different taste when it comes to decorations and furnishings, this can potentially cause some problems. Here’s what you can do to manage merging styles when you and your better half move into your new home.

Purge

While you may be hoping that your partner will miraculously and willingly give up most of their stuff so you can keep yours, that’s unrealistic. Moving in together means that if you keep everything, you’re going to have duplicates. Before taking the plunge, it’s time for each of you to purge some of these redundant items. If it isn’t something you love, need or use regularly, it’s time for that item to be sold or donated. If you’re at odds over which duplicated item to keep, choose the one that is newest or of the highest quality.

Choose new items together

When you’re moving in with someone, it’s an opportunity to start fresh. If you’ve been thinking about parting with your couch, and the other person has, too – why not shop for a new couch together? This will help you to find ways to negotiate and define what your new style will be as a couple.

Make a plan

Now that you’ve purged and acquired new items make a game plan for the new space before moving in. What will go where? Which pieces of art will hang on the wall? Draw up a floor plan and have ideas about where all your stuff will live.

Compromise

Maybe you’re shabby chic, and he’s midcentury modern, and you’re worried those two styles will just not blend. While it’s easy to jump to that conclusion, there are ways to combine even the most disparate styles. Perhaps you both like brass and the color red. Find details that you have in common and build the room around those. What you’ll create is an eclectic and refreshing new style all your own. You can even give it a name, maybe “Modern Rustic Chic” or “Exotic Elegance.” Who wants to live in a cookie cutter environment anyway? This is an opportunity for you and your partner to put a personal stamp on your home and think outside the box.

Hire a professional

When all else fails, and you and your partner just can’t seem to reach an agreement, hire an expert. A professional designer has worked with dozens of clients in similar situations. They can function as a neutral third party and figure out the best way for both of you to be happy.

In the end, remember that it isn’t the space that’s important; it’s the people who occupy the space. Keeping things in perspective and having a willingness to compromise and negotiate is the key to sharing a space and having a healthy and happy relationship.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

 

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11 Ways to Make Small Rooms Feel Big

Just because you’re short on square footage doesn’t mean your life needs to feel cramped.  Try any of these amazing tricks to make your small space feel big.

1. Choose the right paint colors

While the accepted rule of thumb is to paint small spaces in lighter colors, that isn’t always the case. Some design experts suggest that deeper hues or jewel tones can make a room feel cozy or vibrant. If you’re not sure what to pick, here are some great choices.

2. Embrace natural lighting

A no-fail way to add a feeling of spaciousness to any room is to let the sun shine in. This is especially true if you have a beautiful view outside your window, which will help draw the eye out.

3. Be picky about lighting

Plain overhead lighting isn’t going to cut it in a small space. Go for variety with your lights in a small room to add depth and softness, such as a small table lamp, a floor lamp, and a hanging pendant lamp. If possible, put dimmers on your lights for even more control and variation.

4. Use mirrors

Mirrors not only reflect space back at you, but they also reflect the light, making the room feel more bright and spacious. Hang a wall mirror or lean a floor mirror against the wall opposite a window, which will increase the light in the room and reflect the view back to you.

5. Streamline furniture

Nothing makes a small space feel even more cramped than too much furniture. When outfitting a small room, go for furniture that can serve more than one purpose, such as a steamer trunk that can store pillows and blankets and double as a coffee table or ottoman.

6. Go monochrome

Try painting walls, doors and trim in the same color or different shades of the same color. You can also paint things you don’t want to draw attention to, like built-in shelves and radiators. Choose curtains that also blend with the color on the walls. Or better yet – do away with window treatments altogether if you can.

7. Be bold

Even though you don’t want to overwhelm a tiny space with too much furniture, you can add visual space by choosing one large statement piece, such as a sectional sofa or dining room table.

8. Remove interior doors

If your space is closed off by interior doors that you don’t really need – like the ones that separate a living room and a dining room – remove them. This lets the eye travel so that one space moves seamlessly to the next.

9. Show your legs

Instead of furniture that rests directly on the floor, choose sofas and armchairs with legs to make the room feel airier and more spacious.

10. Be transparent

Choose glass or acrylic tables instead of metal or wood, which disrupt the view and create visual clutter.

11. Get rid of clutter

The number one rule, of course, with any small space is to remove as much clutter as you can. Leave at least half the space on shelves and tables empty for a more spacious and dramatic look.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

Compliments of Virtual Results

Solar Energy 101

Have you driven around town and noticed that more and more homes have solar panels installed on their rooftops? Were you thinking that it might be time for you to do the same?

While solar panels are a great option for many homeowners, not every house is suitable. If you’re considering taking the plunge into solar energy, here are answers to some of the few basic questions you may have.

What are the benefits of solar power?

There are many reasons to be excited about using solar energy for your home, which include:

• Greener living – solar energy is a renewable resource, and no emissions are generated from the panels.
• Low maintenance – once your solar energy panels are installed, there’s very little maintenance involved.
• Durability – solar panels don’t contain any moving parts, so they’re tough and durable, and most can be expected to last about 25 years.
• Rebates – many states and municipalities offer rebates for switching to solar energy, which can save you money in the long run.
• Property value – solar panels can even increase the value of your home!

How does solar energy work?

While the science and technology behind solar panels are somewhat complex, what it boils down to is that the panels use photovoltaic cells to generate electron activity when exposed to the sun. In turn, this activity is captured and converted to DC electricity. For systems that are connected to the main power grid, a grid connects inverter then converts that electricity to 120v or 240v AC, which is what is used to power most electrical appliances.

Which direction do the solar panels face?

While south-facing roofs are ideal for collecting and converting the most amount of solar energy, homeowners with east or west facing roofs can still benefit. The angle of the panels is set to maximize exposure based on your home’s latitude.

Is my home a good candidate for solar panels?

If your home gets a large amount of shade during the day, you may not be a good candidate for solar energy, since the panels rely on direct sunlight to generate power. Ideally, your roof should get at least five hours of unobstructed sunlight a day. Your roof also needs to have a solid structure that can handle the weight of the panels and the system that supports them. You may discover that your roof needs to be repaired or reinforced before you can safely install the panels. Also, solar panels are more difficult to install on some types of roofs, including those with Spanish tile or shake.

How are the panels installed?

A solar panel system needs to be installed by an experienced contractor, and it’s a good idea to get proposals from at least three before you decide who will do the work.

Will the panels hurt the roof?

If installed properly, the solar panels will not damage the roof. In fact, the panels will shield the roof underneath them from weather-related damage. Many homeowners even discover that the areas in the home underneath the panels remain cooler in summer months and warmer in winter.

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Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Stage Your Front Porch to Sell

You’ve cleared out all the clutter, emptied the closets, trimmed the trees, and made all the necessary repairs. Your house is clean and spotless and ready to show to potential buyers.

But have you thought about your front porch?

Your front porch will be one of the first things that potential buyers see when they visit your home. Use these great ideas to make sure your porch makes a warm and welcoming first impression!

Give it a scrub

It probably goes without saying, but having a clean front porch is the first step towards having an inviting front porch. Clear away all the clutter, scrub down the floor and make sure all the cobwebs are out of the corners. Wipe down railings, windows and the front door. If needed, rent a pressure washer to deep clean.

Paint and punch up the color

Staging in neutral colors is often recommended inside your home, but you can be a little more daring on the outside. Don’t be afraid to play with color when you’re staging your front porch. You can add pops of colors by painting furniture, adding throw rugs, painting the front door or even simply adding colorful pots of flowers.

Add plants and flowers

Not only will flowers add some wonderful color to your front porch, plants will also draw the eye and make it cozy. Place plants and flowers in the corners in groups of three, line the steps with potted annuals or hang ferns around the perimeter.

Consider the furniture

A front porch is added living space, so demonstrate to potential buyers how they can best utilize the extra square footage. If you have enough room, add a cozy couch or porch swing, complete with bright and comfortable pillows that invite people to sit and linger. Even if you only have a small space, you can add a bistro chair and a side table – the perfect place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee.

Maximize the view

If your front porch has a beautiful view, then you certainly want to emphasize it. You can add curtains that help to frame that gorgeous vista, and position furniture to maximize what can be seen. Don’t have a great view? Don’t worry! You can still make your front porch inviting by finding ways to play down what may not be the best view – like a parking lot across the street or a birdseye view of the neighbor’s RV. Install shutters, hang heavy curtains or add large plants like potted palms to help obstruct the view.

Lighting

Last but not least – don’t forget the lighting! Swap out an old front porch light with something more stylish and clean all outdoor lights thoroughly, especially if you will be showing your home in the evening. String lights can even add a little romantic charm.

If you’re lucky enough to have a front porch, make the most of it when staging your home! You’ll find that many buyers will be drawn inside based on how welcoming you’ve made your home’s entry.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

Compliments of Virtual Results

Quiet Your Noisy Home

Dogs are barking, car alarms shrieking, helicopters buzzing overhead, sirens blaring – sometimes the world just outside your home is a noisy place. Couple that with all the various noises that come from within your house, and you’ve got a potential sound problem on your hands.

While you can’t silence every disturbance (sometimes you just have to accept that the neighbor kid likes to practice his tuba in the morning), you can take steps to make sure your home’s sounds don’t drive you crazy. Here are some suggestions on how to quiet your noisy home.

Fabric is your friend

The more hard surfaces you have in your home, the more sound can echo, amplifying whatever noise you already hear. You can help to diminish this by layering your wood or tile floor with rugs, hanging curtains in windows, buying upholstered furniture instead of wood or metal, and using fabric wall hangings in place of traditional framed art. You can also pile pillows on couches and beds for further sound absorption.

Use solid doors

One way to keep sound from traveling from one room to another is to close the door – but not all doors are created equal. Many of today’s home feature hollow-core doors, which do very little muffle sound. Instead, replace these doors with solid doors made entirely from wood or that have a particle board or composite core. Also, you can install weatherstripping around the perimeter of the door, which will help keep sound from traveling around it. One of the easiest materials you can use is high-density foam tape with an adhesive backing.

Fix that squeaky floor

While you may have learned to walk around that one spot on the floor with the insistent squeak, why not rub it out altogether? A quick, but not permanent, fix for squeaky hardwood floors is to sprinkle baby powder in the cracks, which will temporarily silence the squeak. To eliminate the squeak for good, make sure the subfloor is completely nailed down, repair loose planks or install bridging against the subfloor.

Control volume

Keep your television and stereo at a reasonable volume and adjust volume settings on your phones and other devices. Turn off computers when not in use. If you are in the market for a new appliance, consider purchasing a less noisy model.

Mask noise

If you can’t quiet a noise entirely and it continues to bother you, you might be able to fight noise with noise – white noise, that is. The quiet and continuous whir of a box fan or pleasant sounds of ocean waves from a noise machine may be just what you need to forget about those more annoying sounds and focus on the task at hand.

Invest in good earplugs

One of the easiest ways to block sound is to invest in some good earplugs, which you can buy at your local drugstore. Go for the earplugs that have the highest rating for blocking decibels. You can pop them in if you’re trying to work at home while the dishwasher is running or at night if your partner snores.

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Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall

Winter’s coming – and, no, we don’t mean it’s time for a new season of Game of Thrones. While the end-of-August hot temperatures may have you thinking summer is here to stay forever, autumn is just around the corner. It’s time to do a little Home maintenance to prepare your home for the coming season. Here’s the rundown of what you should accomplish in the next month or two.

Inside your home

Fall and winter bring cooler temperatures, so it’s time to make sure the inside of your home is ready for the change of seasons. These are the chores you should consider tackling:

• Save some money on heating costs this winter by sealing leaks around doors and windows with weather-stripping and caulk.
• Have your furnace and heating system checked by a professional and change furnace filters. Consider signing up for an annual maintenance contract, which could save you money on maintenance visits.
• Check your fireplace or woodstove. Look inside the flue to make sure the damper is functioning properly and that it is free of debris or nests. Have built up creosote cleaned by a professional.
• Change batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Clean humidifiers – bacteria can develop if the water in the tank is dirty.

Outside your home

The weather can be especially harsh in the winter, so make sure the exterior of your home is up for the challenge by performing these chores:

• Use caulk to seal cracks around windows and doors and where the trim and siding meet.
• After leaves have fallen, clean your gutters. Replace any gutters or downspouts that are worn or sagging.
• Inspect your roof. Replace missing shingles and check flashing around pipes, chimneys and skylights.
• Remove window A/C units or cover them with an insulating wrap.
• Clean and store your lawn mower. Drain or add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank before putting it away.
• Remove hoses from outdoor faucets and turn off shutoff valves that supply exterior faucets. Drain the hoses and store them.
• Drain your irrigation system if there is a danger of the buried lines freezing, which can cause them to burst.
• Remove screens from windows and install storm windows. Clean and repair screens before storing.
• Inspect your sidewalks and driveway for cracks and repair with filler.
• Clean porches and decks, including furniture. Check for any needed repairs and store furniture and grilling equipment in a protected place.
• Clean and organize the garage and install weather stripping around the garage door.
• Clean leaves from the yard and prune plants and trees. Be sure branches are at least three feet from the house so water doesn’t drip onto the house.
• Divide and move perennials and plant spring-flowering bulbs. Remove dead or dying annuals.
• Add a fresh layer of mulch in garden beds.
• Aerate your lawn and re-seed patchy areas. Spread fertilizer.

While it might seem like this is a lengthy to-do list, regular maintenance, and repairs each season will go a long way to making sure your home stays in the best shape possible. Tackle a project or two each weekend and by the time the holidays are here, you can relax and enjoy!

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Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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How to Create a Functional Home Office

Are you one of the millions of Americans working from home? Or maybe you have a job outside the home but need a good “command center” from which to run your household? If you’re tired of letting your kitchen table double as your workspace, here are some great tips to set up your own home office space.

Choose a space

First of all, think about how much time you’ll be spending each day in your home office. If the answer is more than a few minutes, don’t be stingy about claiming some usable space to work in. Nothing is more disheartening than squeezing into a windowless closet in order to preserve your child’s bedroom – years after they went away to college.

If you have a spare room that can be converted into an office space, great. If not, take a look around your home to find an area that can function as a permanent workspace, such as an unused area under a staircase, a breakfast nook, or a corner of your living room. Keep in mind how much privacy or quiet you will need, and whether or not you’ll be meeting clients in your space.

Consider the furniture

What type of work do you do, and how much space will you need to complete it? Take some time to find the right desk, bookshelves and other types of storage you may need. Consider how much space you have to work with, and adjust accordingly. Also keep in mind that this is an area of your home, so don’t be afraid to make personal choices that reflect your individual tastes. One of the perks of working from a home office is not having to slave away under fluorescent lights in a gray cubicle. Make your home office a place you enjoy spending time in.

Invest in a good chair

If your work demands sitting at a desk for any length of time during working hours, then invest in a good chair. Of all the furniture you buy for your home office, this is the one you should spend the money on. Choose is chair that is not only comfortable and ergonomic, but also beautiful and functional in your space.

Don’t forget the lights

Make sure your home office space has plenty of good lighting to reduce eyestrain and headaches. Make use of any natural light that is coming into the space and be sure to position computer screens so there isn’t glare. Have sufficient overhead lighting to illuminate the room and place a lamp on your desk for strong task lighting.

Use vertical space

If your home office space is short on square footage, you can make the most of what you have by utilizing wall space for storage. Floating shelves above your desk can help to organize papers and vertical files attached the wall can help keep important documents close at hand.

Make it personal

Your home office is a reflection of who you are, so don’t be afraid to paint the walls a bold color, hang art you love, line the floor with colorful throw rugs and place personal mementos on the shelves and desk. It’s your space – make it one you love to be in!

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If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

 

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Your Spring Cleaning Checklist

Now that spring cleaning is in the air, you probably want to open your windows to welcome it in. Unfortunately, they likely have a layer of grime on them, leftover from the winter season. You know what that means – time for some spring cleaning.

Yes, getting your home ready for spring can be a daunting task. But if you break it down into manageable steps and give yourself plenty time to complete them all (say, the next four weeks), you’ll be done before you know it.

Here’s our guide for how to tackle cleaning your home for spring.

First things first

There are some tasks that apply to most rooms of the house. These include:

• Vacuum and wipe down ceilings and walls.
• Vacuum and/or wipe down curtains and window treatments.
• Dust light fixtures, ceiling fans and shelves.
• Replace light bulbs.
• Wipe down light switches and door handles.
• Vacuum or mop floors.
• Wash windows.
• Change batteries in smoke detectors.

Kitchen

• Clean appliances including oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, coffee pot, microwave oven, garbage disposal and toaster.
• Defrost the freezer.
• Clean out cabinets and wipe down shelves.
• Clean and organize pantry.
• Disinfect cutting boards and countertops.
• Clean garbage and recycle bins.

Living Room / Dining Room

• Vacuum and spot clean upholstered furniture.
• Unplug and dust all electronics.
• Clean fireplace.
• Replace heavy curtains and throws with lighter ones.
• Clean and wax wood furniture.
• Launder table linens.
• Launder throw pillows and blankets.
• Vacuum lamp shades

Bedrooms

• Rotate mattress and switch to warm season bedding.
• Wash pillows and mattress pads.
• Sprinkle baking soda on mattress and vacuum after a few minutes.
• Organize drawers and closets.
• Clean lampshades and under bed.
• Disinfect children’s toys and donate any that children have outgrown.

Bathrooms

• Remove items from medicine cabinet and clean shelves.
• Discard unused and expired medication.
• Clean cosmetics and discard any that are unused and expired.
• Clean hair care tools and accessories.
• Wipe down toiletries.
• Clean faucets and remove build-up.
• Clean drains.
• Scrub and clean sink and tub.
• Update first aid supplies.
• Clean inside and outside of toilet.
• Clean mirrors.
• Wash shower curtain or scour shower door.
• Disinfect countertops and backsplashes.

Laundry Room

• Wipe down cabinets and countertops.
• Wipe down the outside of both the washer and dryer.
• Vacuum and wash lint trap.
• Clean behind the washer and dryer.
• Run an empty load of hot water and vinegar through washer.

Office

• Wipe down all surfaces, including the top of desk.
• Wipe down computer monitor.
• Clean keyboard.
• Disinfect phone and mouse.
• Organize clutter.
• Vacuum or wipe down office chair.
• Shred old papers and organize files.
• Clean garbage and recycle bins.

Outdoor Areas

• Organize garage.
• Scrub decks, patios and walkways.
• Clean porch railings, walls and ceilings.
• Replace light bulbs.
• Wash outdoor furniture, including cushions.
• Clean garbage and recycle bins.

Phew! While this list may make you wish winter lasted a little longer, getting a jump start on your spring cleaning will give you more time to enjoy your home once the warm weather arrives. So grab the list, gather your supplies and get to it!

Compliments of Virtual Results

Tips for Home Sellers

Sometimes selling a home can feel like a big job – one with a thousand small tasks required to get it done. But many sellers make the job harder by ignoring or avoiding some of the biggest factors that contribute to a faster sale. Use this list to see if your house is truly ready for that “sold” sign.

1) Price is paramount.

With the housing market climbing out of its slump, many sellers are banking on higher sale prices. Just make sure you don’t reach too far when pricing your home, and rely on a good agent to help you find the “sweet spot” for your listing. Go too high and you’ll risk slowing down buyer traffic. And once your home has sat on the market for a long time, buyers automatically become suspicious. Even though your home might look great, buyers will notice the listing’s “time on the market” and naturally wonder “What’s wrong with it?”

2) Tour your home like a buyer.

Thousands of sellers make the mistake of looking around their home with the eyes of someone who knows it well and loves it dearly. But buyers won’t see it that way. So walk through your home as if you’re seeing it for the first time, taking note of everything that might give you pause as a skittish buyer. Never assume that a potential buyer will be able to overlook what you perceive as small flaws in the house.

Stage your home with the help of a professional stager (or a friend who’s great at interior design and organization) to create positive word-of-mouth with Realtors. While you’re staging the house, put away all or most of your family photos and other trinkets that make it “yours.” Your goal is to make it look like a model home so buyers can envision themselves living there. Don’t wait until an Open House is scheduled for your property to do repairs, staging and de-personalizing. Do it before your house ever gets listed online. As Realtor.com President Error Samuelson said, “Web appeal is the new curb appeal.” According to a study done by Trulia.com, homes with six photos posted online are twice as likely to be viewed by buyers as homes with fewer than six.

3) Let them in!

Nothing is more frustrating for an agent than a seller who doesn’t want to let potential buyers in to see it. Yes, last-minute requests for showings are a hassle. Yes, it’s a real pain to keep the house clean all the time. Yes, it’s tough to do showings when you have babies or toddlers at home. But the homes that sell fastest are the ones people are able to see quickly and easily. If you have lots of requirements for showings or long wait times, agents are likely to skip your house and go on to the next.

4) Be social.

We live in an increasingly social world, so take advantage of connections by inviting your neighbors to tour your house. It’ll encourage them to spread the word to friends who may be looking for a house in the area. And ask your Facebook friends to help out by sharing a great photo of the house you’ve posted on their timelines. Some sellers even create video “love letters” to their homes and post them on YouTube to endear the home to potential buyers.

With the right price, the right look, accessibility and social connections, you’re well on your way to the “sold” sign you’re working toward.

Article courtesy of http://www.trulia.com

If you would like to know what your home might sell for.  Fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page or Click Here!

Here to serve you,

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

10-Minute Home Projects

You’re probably familiar with the idea that little things add up to a lot. But did you ever stop to think about how that can be applied to the upkeep of your home?

Homeowners know that one of the responsibilities of ownership is keeping up with regular maintenance and repairs. While it may sometimes feel overwhelming, there are simple, ten-minute projects that you can do that will make a huge difference in your quality of life at home. Fit them in between episodes of your favorite Netflix binge, and you’ll feel like you’re hardly putting in any effort at all. Here are some of the easiest projects to get you started.

Easy home repair projects

Sometimes it isn’t worth calling a handyman or your brother-in-law to come over and help. These are easy fixes you can complete by yourself in ten minutes or less:

• Fix a squeaky door – If you’re tired of the squeaky kitchen door alerting your spouse to your midnight snack attacks, spray some WD-40 on the hinges and open and close the door a few times to work it in. You can also try petroleum jelly.
• Sticky windows – Don’t let a hard-to-open window keep you from enjoying a nice summer breeze. Spray silicone lubricant (found at home improvement stores) onto a rag and wipe into the track of a plastic, wood or metal window frame. Dry lubricants like PTFE spray can be used on a vinyl window.
• Silence a squeaky floor – While it’s not a permanent fix, sprinkling talcum powder into the cracks between floorboards will help to temporarily silence those noisy floors.
• Replace a broken toilet lever – First pop open the back to make sure the chain is still attached. If it’s broken, buy a replacement toilet lever kit. Don’t let these instructions worry you – it’s very simple and with the exception of going to the store to get the kit, it won’t take you more than ten minutes.

Easy home maintenance projects

If you want to avoid costly repairs due to negligence, it’s important to keep up with regular home maintenance chores. The following projects are so simple you have no excuse to put them off:

• Change the filters on your air conditioning unit and furnace to keep them running smoothly, especially in summer and winter.
• Replace batteries in smoke detectors once a year.
• Clean lint from your dryer exhaust with a long, flexible brush or a vacuum hose attachment.
• Vacuum the coils on your refrigerator once a year.
• Flush the garbage disposal in your sink once a month with a mixture of baking soda and hot water.
• Check fire extinguishers.
• Test your garage door opener regularly to make sure that it reverses automatically if there is an obstruction.
• Clean the filter on your stove’s range hood. It can get quite greasy, but cleaning it is easy.

Keeping up with the small tasks around your home will go a long way towards making sure everything stays in good working order. And when it comes time to sell, you’ll have much less to worry about. So hit the “pause” button on the remote and take ten minutes to complete one of these easy tasks. You’ll be glad you did!

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

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When You Should – and Shouldn’t – DIY

Are you starting to feel a little bored with your house? Are you daydreaming about making some changes? At some point, most homeowners want to spruce up their home a little bit – and may even try to handle some of those upgrades on their own. But beware – there are certain projects you can DIY, and some that you shouldn’t.

Go ahead and DIY these projects

If you’ve got the itch to get your hands dirty and feel a sense of accomplishment (and not to mention potentially save some money), these home improvement projects fit the bill. They can be easily done with a little bit of know-how and some elbow grease, without requiring too much expertise or special equipment.

• Paint – If you want the biggest bang for your DIY buck, this is the best place to start. Painting a room, or even an accent wall or a piece of furniture, will quickly change the energy and aesthetic in a space without too much effort or expense on your part. The key to a good paint job is preparation – be sure to fill holes and sand them, and tape and protect anything you don’t want to find splattered later.
• Update hardware – If you want to give a new look to your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, and easy DIY is to change out the hardware. All you need is a screwdriver and some time. Be sure to buy new pulls or knobs that match the existing holes.
• Change out faucets – This is a great first-time plumbing DIY that can make a dramatic difference. If you have a wrench and know where to shut off your water, you can swap out a leaky faucet or upgrade to a more functional or designer model. Don’t worry – you can totally do this on your own, and think of how good you’ll feel when you’re done!
• Install a chandelier on a dimmer – Installing a chandelier with a dimmer switch is not as hard as you think and can quickly transform your room into a cozy and inviting space. Be sure to buy special dimmable bulbs and turn the power off at the breaker box before you start.
• Replace your showerhead – Replacing a showerhead is so easy you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. You can upgrade your shower experience by installing a new model with special features like mood lights or massaging jets. You can even save money by going with a low-flow unit.

Hire a pro for these projects

Once you’ve gotten a few projects under your belt, you might feel like there isn’t any home improvement project you can’t DIY. However, there are certain things that should always be left to the pros, including:

• Knocking down walls or building a new addition.
• Repairing faulty wiring or other electrical work.
• Repairing plumbing, other than a clogged drain or replacing a faucet.
• Installing new siding.
• Replacing windows.
• Hooking up a new gas appliance.
• Installing new tile.
• Refinishing a hardwood floor.
• Repairing the roof.
• Installing a new fence.
• Anything that requires a permit, unless you are a professional. This could lead to serious problems when you try to sell later.

Once you understand what you should and shouldn’t attempt on your own, have fun! Tackling small DIY projects around your home will refresh and re-energize your space and make it feel like new again.

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

Compliments of Virtual Results

Use Your Tax Refund On Your Home

Have you filed your taxes yet?

We know — tax season isn’t anybody’s favorite time of the year (except, of course, for tax accountants). But if you’re expecting a refund, now is a great time to reinvest that money in your home. Whether you’ll be getting a check for a few hundred dollars or a few thousand, there are great ways you can put that money to good use.

Save it for a down payment

Are you hoping to buy a home in the near future? As you probably already know, you’ll be expected to put down a down payment — anywhere from 3.5 to 20 percent or more of the purchase price. If you’re expecting a refund in the thousands of dollars, adding it to your down payment savings account is a fantastic way to get yourself closer to home ownership. And if you manage to save more than 20 percent, you’ll eliminate the need to buy mortgage insurance, saving you even more money down the line.

Pay down your mortgage

Even if you have a great rate on your mortgage loan, making an extra payment will still help you save money in the long run. By paying off more of your mortgage early, you will pay less interest over time. You’ll build equity more quickly and will own your home outright sooner. You may also be able to eliminate the cost of mortgage insurance once some of your loan has been paid off.

Purchase additional insurance

An inevitable part of owning a home is also purchasing homeowner’s insurance. This protects you from liabilities should someone get injured on your property and sue you. Unfortunately, most homeowner insurance policies are not comprehensive. By purchasing umbrella insurance, you get additional protection once your primary insurance coverage limits are reached, and as an added bonus, it also applies to your vehicles. For around $300 a year, you get about $1 million in coverage. It’s a very small price to pay for peace of mind.

Audit your home’s energy usage

Leaky windows, drafty doors and energy-hogging appliances all needlessly eat up your money. If you’d like to find ways to cut your energy costs, consider using your tax refund for a home energy audit. While there are free programs available from many local power companies who will send out a professional to look at your home and offer advice about where to make changes, the biggest bang will be to hire a private firm to do a comprehensive audit of your home. While you’ll be paying more up front, the audit is much more detailed and could potentially save you up to 30 percent on your energy bills should you decide to implement their suggestions.

Make needed home repairs

If your refund is less than $1000, perhaps one of the best ways to use it is to make some needed home repairs that you’ve been putting off. You can repaint, add some new landscaping, buy a programmable thermostat or finally organize your garage. The money spent will go a long way to contributing to your overall enjoyment of your home.

While it may be tempting to splurge on a big treat, spending your tax refund wisely on your home can improve your financial health for the long haul.

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

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Make Your Wood Floors Look Like New

Did you buy an older home because you fell in love with its character? Many homes built in previous decades or centuries feature details that often aren’t prevalent in new construction, such as Dutch doors, transom windows and even dumbwaiters or laundry chutes.

One of the most attractive features in many older homes are the hardwood floors. But years of wear and tear can leave them looking dull, scratched or dingy. If your home’s hardwood floors need a makeover, follow these steps to have them looking like new.

Sweep and repair

After emptying the room of all its furniture, give the floor a good sweep and vacuum to get rid of all the dirt and grit. This is also the best time to deal with repairs, such as sinking nail heads, filling in scratches or patching holes.

Clean with appropriate cleaner

Next, you’ll want to clean your floor with an appropriate cleaner, such as Murphy’s Oil Soap or Bona Floor Cleaner. It’s important not to use regular soap or harsh chemicals on your hardwood floor, as they can leave a residue or damage the wood with too much moisture. Let the floor dry.

Polish and seal

After the floor is dry, apply a thin layer of polish evenly around the room. The polish will help to moisturize the wood and leave it shiny. Polishes can be purchased with either a satin or glossy finish, depending on your tastes. Some floors benefit from a second coat; follow instructions on the label to determine how much time should elapse between applications. Be sure to give the floor plenty of time to dry before moving furniture back in – in some cases up to three days.

Buffing and waxing

Sometimes cleaning and polishing just doesn’t give your floor the love it needs to restore its luster, especially if it is already finished with wax or shellac. In this case, you can use a floor buffer to remove the top layer of finish off the floor. Buffers can be rented for around $50 a day, just be sure the buffer has a sanding screen so you don’t remove too much of the surface of the floor. Clean the dust and follow with a floor wax, which can be buffed to a shine once it dries.

When to call a professional

If none of the above techniques give you the results you desire, it may be time to refinish your hardwood floors. This technique requires more time and know-how, so even though you can rent a sander to do the job yourself, it might be best to hire a professional. Not only will they properly sand your floor, they will also re-stain and seal it, restoring your beautiful floors to their former glory, which, with the proper care, will last you for many years to come.

Nothing gives a home warmth and character quite like a well-cared for hardwood floor. It is worth the investment to refresh your floors; not only does it renew your home’s energy, it can even increase its value.

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

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Refresh Your Garden for Spring

Do you hear that?

It’s the first breathy sigh of your spring garden, waking up from its winter’s nap. Longer days, warmer temperatures and dreams of lazy afternoons spent lounging among the flowers is enough to get any homeowner motivated to get their garden ready for the coming months.

If you long to get outside and get your hands dirty in preparation for spring, here are some great ideas to get you started.

Trim and tidy

The end of winter is an excellent time to prune and cut back the plants, bushes and trees in your garden before they get new spring growth. However, it’s a good idea to wait until any danger of frost has passed before wielding those pruning shears, as cutting back during a freezing spell can mean doom for some plants. Remove any annuals from the previous season and compost them.

Remove weeds

While most homeowners don’t love the idea of spending an afternoon pulling weeds, it goes a long way right now – not only does it reduce the number that are propagating in your garden, but it also makes your yard look clean and tidy. Weeds are generally easier to remove at this time of year, as they have shallow roots that can easily be pulled from moist soil. Try to get as many as you can while they’re still small – it’ll save unnecessary back strain down the line.

Divide and conquer

Some varieties of perennial plants do well when they are divided and transplanted. It’s also an easy and inexpensive way to add new plants to your landscape. Dig up perennials to be divided just as they are starting to grow, and transplant into new spots that have been amended with compost to give the divisions the best possible start.

Fertilize

All your plants and flowers enjoy a healthy dose of fertilizer in the spring as they begin to grow. If you have compost, add a layer of it to existing beds to give the soil a boost, or apply organic or synthetic fertilizer as new growth appears.

Add mulch

Mulch does wonderful things for your garden. It acts as a barrier to keep weeds from sprouting, it helps soil retain moisture and it gives the garden a polished look. As mulch starts to break down it also adds beneficial nutrients to the soil. So go ahead and give your garden beds a nice thick blanket of mulch – just be sure to keep it away from the trunks of trees and stems of tender plants.

Prepare feeders

Any garden can be made more magical with the addition of bird feeders and baths that attract local and migratory birds. If you have any in your garden, now is the time to clean them thoroughly to avoid build-up of bacteria or mold.

Get the lawn ready

If you have grass, take time to give it a good raking to remove any dead growth and debris that has accumulated over the winter. This allows air and light to penetrate the soil, stimulating all that glorious new green growth for spring.

If the promise of spring has you yearning to get outside, go ahead and give in to the urge. Taking a little time now to get your yard ready for the coming warm weather can be beneficial to your garden – and to you!

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page. Or click here!

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