3-tips-for-turning-houseplants-into-decor-statements

Keeping houseplants is a great hobby – but there’s a difference between a hobby and a decor statement. A weird assortment of greenery in even more assorted pots isn’t going to cut it – even if the plants themselves are really quite pretty. If you hope to combine arty decor with indoor gardening, here are the tips you need to make your plants into indoor features that will be noticed!

Indoor Kitchen Gardens With Flair

Food gardening and urban farming are enormously trendy right now, and there’s a special something about being able to pick fresh herbs, berries, and greens right in your kitchen and fresh for the pot.

There are some truly awesome and innovative high-tech indoor planters out there. They’re good-looking and they even look after the plants themselves! That’s great if you have a busy lifestyle and don’t have much time to care for your indoor kitchen garden. There are even planters that you can hang on walls like pictures! Just remember that most edibles like good light, so choose a site near a bright window or use grow lights.

Choose the Right Plants and Pots for Visual Effect

Think of plants in interior decor much as you would sculptures or paintings. One big, truly striking one will look way better than a ton of little ones dotted around all over the place. Sure, that one plant is going to cost more, but you can go big and beautiful! 

Choose plants with a strong sculptural effect. A stately potted palm can change the entire atmosphere of a room. Or, you can go for beautifully groomed Yuccas or Dragon Trees for an up-to-the-minute look. Round off your indoor gardening choices with stylish containers. Plain-Jane plastic pots are out. Choose attractive ceramics, terracotta, or brass.

What to Do About Drainage Water

Back in the day, drainage water presented a huge problem for indoor gardeners. Traditionally, you’d have a pot with a drainage saucer. The alternative was no drainage at all. For the former idea, you had to empty the excess water from the saucers before it turned into a stinking mess. In the latter case, watering became a fine art with root rot as a real danger to your success. 

Nowadays, you can get beautiful hydroponic systems that recirculate water or semi-hydroponic containers that store it in a reservoir beneath the plant. I’d suggest the first of these for kitchen gardens and smaller houseplants, while the semi-hydroponic pots will work well for the big, showy house plants we talked about earlier. Most of them come with a nifty little watering indicator that tells you just when you need a top-up. It’s low tech, but it works!

Indoor Houseplants Make You Feel Good: Try It!

If the idea of having an indoor oasis doesn’t excite you, the psychological benefits might! Research into our natural affinity for plants concludes that they reduce stress, make us more productive, and can even help to keep us in healthier physical condition. And, let’s face it, you’re going to feel awesome about adding a sprig or two of fresh, homegrown herbs to your cookery even if that’s all you grow!

SHOP FAUX PLANT OPTIONS…

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neutral-rugs-my-12-favorites

Neutral rugs – let’s talk about one of my favorite decor items. I am a big fan of neutral decor – I know it sounds a bit boring but I love mixing textures and playing with pattern and all within a neutral palette. A rug with pattern or texture (or both) is a perfect addition for any room in your home. My own home has neutral rugs throughout and I have found some great options – and I’m sharing my favorites with you…

Neutral Rugs Inspiration…

Let’s get inspired ! – Here are some of my favorite rooms with neutral floor coverings…

Photo credit: Amazon

This room is a combination of so many neutrals! I love the pillow combination – that green colour is so rich and dramatic. The texture element with tassels and pompoms – add some whimsy to the room. And the brass metallic accent is subtle but adds another textural element. And this rug…love it! I love the versatility of it – plus a mix of neutral tones with pattern and texture, it adds a subtle statement to the room.

Photo credit: HomeBunch

I love the distressed look of this rug – it adds so much character to this bedroom. This dreamy bedroom is layered with neutrals – I love the black night stands and the small black accents in the bench and ceiling fan. I love the linen texture on the bed – it is so soothing, fresh and relaxing. This rug is a big statement piece – it’s like having a big art piece that pulls it all together!

So why decorate with neutrals?

  • Neutrals are easy to decorate with – you can mix them with bold colours or with other neutrals – they are so versatile!
  • Neutrals are timeless – sure trends come and go but neutrals are never out!
  • Neutrals can be in a cool palette or warm palette – so you do have options…
  • Neutrals work with different styles – modern, farmhouse, boho, traditional etc…
  • Decorating with neutrals allows for you to play with and feature other design elements such as texture and pattern

Shop…

  1. Southwest flatweave rug
  2. Flat weave natural rug
  3. Casablanca southwest shag rug
  4. Artistic Weavers Amalia rug
  5. Woodrum southwest rug
  6. Tashi Hand Knotted rug
  7. Diamond Texture Trellis rug
  8. Modern abstract rug
  9. Safavieh multi/cream rug
  10. Keagan Grey area rug
  11. Tribal diamond rug with tassels (no longer available but here’s a similar option)
  12. Safavieh Cosmopolitan Zenovia Vintage Rug

All of these rugs are so versatile and they very in terms of pattern, texture and detail. But these could work in many rooms and many decor styles. I love what a rug can do for a room, too!

Do you have a favorite neutral rug?

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4-signs-your-home-needs-an-insulation-upgrade

Your home is your castle, so it’s understandable when you want to invest in the best heating and cooling equipment. However, you still need to contend with uncomfortable interiors if you do not have the best insulation.

Multiple insulation alternatives exist, and you should choose one that suits your home, the materials, and the climate in your area. Most people to assume that they are well-equipped to pick and install their property’s insulation. This is a costly mistake that could raise energy expenses and create uncomfortable interiors.

Unfortunately, most people opt to remove their non-functioning wall and roof insulation without expert help. Often they spread the insulation material indoors, and then they may need additional cleaning procedures to get rid of the material. Sometimes the best way to save money is to get expert help, but would you recognize the signs that your home needs new insulation materials?

The following are indications that it is time for the removal and replacement of your insulation. 

Lingering Unpleasant Odors

At times even the most thorough indoor cleaning does not get rid of an unpleasant odor. Some insulation material could become moldy with heat and moisture. Other than spray foam insulation, most insulation materials are not waterproof and will absorb some amount of water.

Ground moisture and extreme humidity contribute to the formation of mold and mildew on your home’s walls and attic. Checking your insulated spaces without damaging the insulation may not be doable, and you may need someone who has the proper safety equipment to do so.

Worsening Allergies

Even doctors will be baffled by the persistent flare-ups of allergic conditions among the occupants of your home. This can be attributed to the mold spores that will spread in your interiors when neglected. It also arises from the tendency of some insulation materials to accumulate dust over time. The removal of your insulation, its replacement, and the air sealing are the ideal steps for keeping allergies at bay.

Water Damage

Wet floors, dark or brown splotches across your ceiling, and peeling paint on any surface are common signs of water leaks. Ineffective insulation will indirectly contribute to significant water damage. If for instance, your water pipes are not well insulated, freezing water may cause them to burst or spring leaks that contribute to your property’s water damage. And with sufficient damage, it may be time to get a new roof, too.

Household Pests

Pests will feed on old insulation materials. Though fiberglass is effective, inexpensive and popular, rodents love tearing it apart. The holes created in your insulation by the rodents

form the perfect entry spot for other insects and dangerous animals like snakes. Air sealing your property can avert the invasion of your home by pests to some degree, but it is not completely secure.

These are not the only signs of damaged or ineffective insulation. They could also be signs of something else, and most homeowners could waste their money on unnecessary services and high medical bills before realizing their insulation is the primary cause of their issues. Your best choice is to have your insulation installed and maintained by professionals so you know when to remove and replace insulation.

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6-home-improvements-to-increase-your-houses-value

Home improvements are necessary. Whether you’re thinking of selling your home or just looking to clean it up, completing some basic home improvements can significantly increase its value. Not only will you be able to make a better sale, but you can take pride in all of your accomplishments. In this article, we’ll look at six home improvements that you can make to increase your house’s value. Sound interesting? Then keep on reading! 

Follow these 6 Home Improvements to increase your home’s value…

Paint, paint and more paint…

Yep, you guessed it! One of the easiest ways to maximize your house’s value is to give everything a fresh coat of paint. From the doors and walls to your front porch, it really can make a huge difference. Try and stick with neutral colors, as it gives any potential buyers freedom to make changes. It’s also best to hire a professional if you want everything done correctly, as they can make sure the right paint and techniques are used. Check out these exterior house paint color ideas for some inspiration! 

Change up the landscape 

Your garden and landscape are just as important as your home itself, so it’s a good idea to hire a professional to help clean things up. A Home Improvement Contractor can ensure that everything looks its best, and you don’t have to worry about the stress of doing it yourself. Try and keep things looking clean and tidy, but don’t be afraid to add in some gorgeous greenery. It really can make a difference!  

Install extra storage 

Nobody can ever get enough storage, so if you’re looking for another way to upgrade your home’s value, see where you can add in some extra cupboards. Even something as simple as installing a coat rack or kitchen hanger rack could make buyers even more interested. Have a look at these indoor storage ideas to help get you started.  

Replace your heating and cooling systems 

If your house was built more than a few years ago, chances are the heating and cooling systems has seen better days. Replacing it can significantly increase your home’s value, and you’ll quickly earn it back when your sale goes through. Try getting a reverse cycle air-conditioner so that everything is in the one unit. They are easy to use, efficient, and can also save you money on power. 

Fix the little things 

Do you have small odd jobs around the home that you never got around to? It could be a paint chip in your bedroom wall or a brick that needs replacing? Fixing all the little things plays an important part in selling your home. Potential buyers always look at what needs fixing, and the less there is, the more interested they will be. There are many DIY fixes for things around the house online; you just need to do some research.  

Go green 

Lastly, one of the best ways to increase your home’s value is to go green and make your home more eco-friendly. For example, installing solar power panels reduces your energy bill, and you can even put power back into the grid. You could also consider installing low flow faucets to save water. The options are endless, and while it might cost a little to set everything up, it will undoubtedly be worth it. 

And that’s it! Even by just completing a few of these improvements, you’ll be able to get a better price offer on your home. Just remember always to hire professionals for any difficult job, and try and think about your home from a buyer’s point of view. Trust us when we say it can really help! Good luck. 

SHOP HOME DECOR ACCESSORIES…

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top-3-tips-to-modernize-your-home

Modernize your home with some change – and as the proverbial saying goes:” change is as good as a holiday”. While there is great beauty in antiquity, we live in a perpetual, technological evolving world. Just as our cell phones, cars and computer systems continue to modernize, so too can our homes. For those contemporary, modern thinkers amongst us, here are some ideas to turn any rustic home into a modern marvel. 

Create a Smart Home

Just like your smartphone, you can create a smart home. Home automation is the perfect project for the technically inclined. It allows you to remotely control your homes lighting, electronic devices and heating via your smartphone or computer. The benefits of this are numerous, providing security, energy efficiency, comfort and convenience

In today’s modern, fast-paced world, the less you must worry about, the better. A smart home setup allows you to achieve this convenience. You can manage all your home devices from one central place.

A smart home is also a way to enhance your home’s security significantly, ensuring you and your loved ones are always safe. Smart home security systems to connect to a WIFI network, meaning you can control and monitor your security devices with your smartphone. This ensures your home is safe even when you are not there. There are many fantastic DIY smart home projects out there, making them affordable and easy to set up. 

Use Alternative Energy 

Powering your home via means of an alternative electrical source is a great way to save on electrical bills, as well as contributing to the preservation of the environment. It also enables you to be self-sufficient and to “get off the grid’, not having to rely on the local power stations.

Installing solar panels is one excellent solution. A solar panel harnesses the power of the sun through solar energy to generate electricity and to heat your water. Your geyser is one of the most significant consumers of electricity. Using a solar panel to power your geyser can potentially save you thousands of dollars as a long-term investment. 

Another way to generate clean energy for those living in windy areas is through wind turbines. Small wind turbines can be a cost-effective way to create renewable, clean energy for your home. They are incredibly durable too, with average turbines lasting for 20 years. 

Install new Lighting to modernize

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best. By adding modern lighting to your home, you can bring it to life and into the current century. A popular type of modern lighting are LEDs. LED lighting systems provide many advantages. In addition to generating high brightness intensity, they are highly energy-efficient and come in a variety of different colour ranges. Being extremely reliable and having a long life, LEDs also offer cost-effective lighting solutions.

There are countless modern lighting options you could consider. Replacing your old lights with contemporary lamps and chandeliers will liven up any home. Not only do they light up your home more effectively, they are aesthetically pleasing as well. You could turn your home into a masterpiece of artwork through lights. 

SHOP MODERN PIECES FOR THE HOME…

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switching-to-solar-power-avoid-these-3-mistakes

Solar power technology has finally caught up with the promise. For decades, solar has been promoted as the future of renewable energy, but it had a lot of shortcomings that needed to be addressed before it could be adopted by the masses.

It finally has fulfilled its potential and many homeowners are jumping on board the solar wagon. However, that doesn’t mean that it is as straightforward as setting up a traditional electrical system in your home. 

To keep you from making a misstep when getting your solar power system set up, we’ve put together this list of common mistakes people make.

1 – Not understanding grid vs off grid

When you get solar, you aren’t off grid. Unless, of course, you are actually going off grid somewhere. If you will still be living in your home in a city or suburb, then you are still going to be connected to the grid. It’s actually the law in most places that you stay connected. 

There’s nothing stopping you from buying a house in the woods and setting up solar panels and battery packs and not relying on civilization at all. For the sake of this article, we will focus on when you are living in a connected house and simply want to go with renewable energy. 

You’ll actually get a better return for your investment when you go with a grid based solar system as you will be paid when you put more energy into the grid than you take out. Batteries are expensive and can make it take a long time to pay for themselves through the savings.

2 – Not understanding your energy needs

When you are in the planning stages of installing solar, finding the best electrician that understands your needs and solar power in general is essential. 

The solar panel company that you are in contact with likely has a salesman that is working with you and is eyeing his commissions while he talks you into a system. An electrician will let you know exactly what you need for the type of household you have. This way you don’t end up with too weak a system and end up relying on the grid, or too much so you overpay for a system that is more than what you need.

3 – Not shopping around for solar power options

A lot of times, when somebody decides to go solar they end up with the first company that they talk to. It isn’t like your regular energy company in that you don’t have much choice. 

So, make sure to talk to several companies to zero in on the right deal and the one that will be with you throughout your time with their panels. Customer service is very important when it comes to installing solar. If you struggle to get answers then it is time to move on. 
And be careful when it comes to being sent off to third party suppliers. Some people can save money when this is an option, but many more end up paying more and you can’t use net metering which is when you are paid for generating excess electricity for the grid.

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8-home-battery-storage-buying-tips

Sick of dealing with power outages or have appliances and devices that can’t be placed at risk of turning off without a moment’s notice? Buying a home battery storage system is the best solution. Homeowners often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of options out there. Read on to find eight home battery storage buying tips that can help make the decision easier.

1. Determine Power Needs First

It’s important to take the household’s power needs into account when sizing a home battery backup system. To do this, homeowners must estimate the power consumption of all their essential devices and appliances in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Homeowners working on a budget should keep in mind that many power-hungry devices such as air conditioners are not strictly necessary and can be turned off in the event of a power outage.

2. Consider Installing Solar Panels

Homeowners whose houses are tied to the grid can install a battery backup system without solar panels, but it will only provide power for a short period of time. Installing solar panels to power the battery bank will allow residents to access power even if the grid goes out for days at a time. Solar systems with battery banks can still be hooked into the grid. If they produce surplus power, homeowners can sell it to power companies to make back some of their investments.

3. Look Into Tax Credits

Homeowners who choose to install both battery banks and solar arrays may be eligible for a tax credit through the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) program. Only batteries that are charged using solar panels exclusively are eligible for the tax credit, so those who choose to use grid-tied systems may not be able to get it.

4. Choose the Right Battery Configuration

There are two types of battery configurations that are common in residential homes. They are known as critical load backup systems and self-consumption systems. While critical load systems only run vital devices during grid failures, self-consumption systems are designed to operate during peak utility hours even if the grid is working as intended. They can help to reduce high energy bills but require a larger upfront investment.

5. Learn the Difference Between AC and DC Coupled Battery Systems

Homeowners who want to install solar arrays to charge their battery banks need to learn the difference between AC coupled and DC coupled battery systems. To put it in its simplest terms, the main difference is that DC-coupled systems are more efficient since they don’t require as many power conversions. However, they also require a larger upfront investment.

6. Hire a Professional Installation Technician

Whether homeowners plan to tie their battery banks into the grid or use solar panels to power them, they should always hire professional installation technicians. Working with electricity can be dangerous.

7. Buy the Right Inverter

Inverters are designed to convert the DC power produced by batteries into AC power. Make sure to buy an inverter large enough to power all essential devices and appliances.

8. Keep Batteries Safe

Batteries should be stored indoors but away from living areas. Ensure that they are kept dry and at above freezing temperatures to avoid problems with premature failure.

The Bottom Line…

Installing a battery bank is the best thing homeowners can do to increase their energy independence. Whether they choose to install full solar systems or just store power from the grid for emergency applications, it’s worth the investment.

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6-ways-to-decorate-blank-walls-in-your-apartment

Blank walls are a perfect blank canvas to show off your personality and style. One of the best things about moving into a new place is having a blank canvas to decorate as you wish.

Here I will share some ideas on how decorating bare walls…

There are two ways to approach a blank canvass: be intimidated by the possibility of filling it or be excited for the same reason. Whichever spectrum you fall on, one thing’s for sure: you can’t let a blank canvas remain blank, especially if said canvass is a wall in your new condo.

Furnishing and decorating a new apartment allow you to personalize your space and truly make it yours. However, it’s understandable how you might be intimidated, what with dozens of things to do and options to choose from, especially for wall decor. Fortunately, you don’t have to look far. Below, we have a few suggestions on how to dress up your apartment’s blank walls.

1. Tapestries and other textiles

Don’t have plenty of time to think of decor ideas? You can buy a large tapestry, hang it on your wall, and ta-da! Your  

wall is filled. Keep the look cohesive with the rest of the design elements in the room by choosing a tapestry or other textiles, such as vintage quilts, with similar or complementing hues. Also, make sure to measure the dimensions of your wall so you can choose a tapestry that’s not too big or too small for your wall.

2. Trick the eye with a triptych

Triptychs are some of the most eye-catching pieces of wall art. They’re like a painting or a photograph, except divided into three parts. Triptychs come in different styles, from ones that form one image to others that can stand alone but are better viewed with its companions. Whatever you choose, it will be a good focal point meant to catch your guests’ eyes.

3. Floating shelves might float your boat

If you have plenty of books, plants, or knickknacks, then a blank wall is the perfect place to mount floating shelves on. Color-code your books, create a gallery of picture frames, display your jar collection-the options are endless as long as you have shelves mounted on the wall.

4. Passion for fashion

If you’re into clothes and accessories, you can show them off by sticking hooks on your blank walls and hanging fashion items on them. You can display your handbags, hats, or pieces of jewelry. This results in a functional wall art where your items of clothing have somewhere to hang while also making your walls look unique.

5. Living wall in your living room

Love indoor plants? Why not dedicate an entire wall to them? This is almost as simple as hanging a picture frame. All you need is a pre-made frame and your selection of plants. Some frames have built-in watering systems in them while others simply have hooks to hang your pots of plants on. With proper maintenance, your vertical indoor garden will be the focal piece of art on your wall.

6. Mirror, mirror

You might think, “Mirrors? How boring.” But if you choose the mirrors you will display correctly, not only will they give your place an illusion of bigger space, but they will also look like pieces of art. Raid thrift stores and garage sales to hunt for old, antique mirrors with interesting frames. Then arrange them however you want on one wall.

Filling up the blank walls of your condo unit doesn’t have to be an intimidating task. With the ideas above, you’ll hopefully be one step closer to furnishing your place.

SHOP WALL DECOR…

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the-black-and-white-pillow-my-top-12

I just love a black and white pillow! Black and white is a colour scheme that is a classic. If you have been following me on any on my socials you will have noticed that it’s my latest obsession. I have been making updates in my own home – especially the family room and I have added some great neutral pieces with contrast (tiles and pillows) to my room design. I’m waiting on orders to arrive but I wanted to share with you some of my inspiration and some great finds.

Black and White Pillow Inspo

Photo credit: Lulu and Georgia

This living room loom really inspired my plan for my family room – which I’m so excited about. What I love about this look is the neutral scheme (of course) but the mix of the textures and the prints. I love the boho elements of texture and tassels, too! The look and feel of mudcloth has always been a favourite of mine. The pattern rug with the neutral sofa and walls with the mix of pattern pillows is the look I am going for in my space!

Shop pillows

I have found some amazing deals on pillows and pillow covers that can be used in a living room, entry, or bedroom. What I love with these neutrals is that you can mix them with any colour or other neutrals. I am also really into the texture and tassels – can you tell?

  1. Stripe Tassel Square Throw Pillow
  2. Embroidered Black and White Mudcloth Square Pillow
  3. Cottle Cotton Pillow Cover
  4. Hadleigh Black Pillow
  5. Tasseled Geometric Square Throw Pillow
  6. Rivet Modern Throw Pillow with Tassels
  7. Hadrea Handwoven Black and White Lumbar Pillow Cover
  8. Abner Cotton Throw Pillow
  9. Coen Cotton Geometric Throw Pillow
  10. African Mudcloth Lumbar
  11. Square Cotton Mudcloth with Fringed “X”
  12. Spraggins Ikat Cotton Lumbar

As you can see this is an extensive list with variety of styles and price points. When it comes to decorating I love to play with my budget and have a blend of splurge and save items. I really believe that’s how you can add your own twist on a design. Right now, I really love the boho elements like tassels and fringe. I have always been drawn to the organic texture of mud cloth and I love the visual interest that a pattern brings to a space. Add these in any combination of size to a neutral sofa or sectional or on a wood bench or paired with simple and neutral bedding.

Are you liking the boho trend? What about the black and white pillow – do you have any in your home? I can’t wait to share my family room updates with my new black and white pillows!

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looking-to-move-8-guidelines-to-follow

When you decide it is time to move down the street or across the country, it is important to choose a place to live carefully. If you want to move to a new state or town, you need to make sure that area has the amenities you need, such as job opportunities, good schools, medical services, and pleasant neighborhoods to live in.

Choose the Location To Move to

The first step in any journey to find a new home is to choose the town, the neighborhood, and the development to look for a house in. By contacting www.homesinchapinsc.com/ in the Lake Murray SC area, you can find the best places to consider living in. Searching for a new home in this area is easy with the expert real estate professionals available to help with the search. There are home lots, homes with acreage, homes on city lots for sale, and homes in planned developments.

Choose a real estate agent to help you decide which housing choices best meet your needs. There will be homes in many different price ranges to consider, so decide on a budget and get pre-approved for a home loan before starting the shopping process.

8 Guidelines To Finding The Right House

Here are 8 guidelines to follow in that new home search:

1. Decide what you and all the members of your family want in a home. Does the family want a new or existing home? should it be one story or multi-story? Will the family consider a fixer-upper house to save money?

2. Decide which features are necessities in a home and which things would be nice. Then, do some searching online with real estate listing services to narrow down the neighborhoods and houses to visit. Check out crime rates, commute time to a job, schools, shopping, and recreational activities.

Get Finances in Order

3. Don’t start touring homes until the finances to purchase a home are in place. Meet with local lenders to find the best home mortgage terms and determine how much you qualify to borrow. Then, get a pre-qualification letter to present to the agent and seller of any house you want to purchase.

4. Decide on a moving timeline. Is your present home sold, and when is that closing? Do you need time to clean up your credit rating to qualify for a home loan? Do you want to wait until school is out to move or be moved before the school year begins? Is there a lease that has a couple of months left on it?

5. Find and work with a good Realtor in the area you want to move to. They can be a valuable tool.

6. Think long-term on what you want in life and a house. This could be a starter home that you plan on living in for a few years and then upgrade to a better home. Or, this might be the home you want to raise a family in for the long term. This may be a down-sized home for your retirement years. The home for each of these needs will be different.

7. Be open-minded about the housing options you will consider. Budgets have a lot to do with determining the size and amenities that a family can realistically expect. Stay true to that list of family necessities you listed. With each house, you must weigh the advantages and good points with the disadvantages, such as neighborhood, street noise, and some home imperfections.

8. Make sure you can afford the home you are interested in when considering the closing costs and other expenses that must be added to the purchase price. If the home meets your needs and budget, don’t take days to decide on making an offer. There is nothing worse than losing out on the perfect home by a day.

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