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what-do-termite-holes-look-like-in-the-home

Have you noticed a lot of unexplained insect activity in the home lately? Perhaps you have itchy red bumps on some areas of your skin, or you’ve noticed fingernail gouges in the woodwork? If so, you might have a termite infestation.

Termites are huge trouble for any property owner. In many cases, termite damage can be so extensive that you’ll need to sell the property. If you catch them early enough, though, you might be able to minimize the property damage.

But what do termite holes look like? In this article, we’ll go into detail about termite damage and show you the top signs of an infestation. Keep reading to ensure that your home is always protected.

Pencil-Eraser-Sized Holes

Termites require an entry point into the home and often create tiny pencil-eraser-sized holes in the walls or floors to gain access. These termite exit holes may not be visible at first, but over time, the termite activity will become more apparent. Termites can cause extensive damage to wood structures over time, making it essential to identify the holes as quickly as possible.

Additionally, the holes are a sign to inspect other areas of the home for further damage. It is important to have the home inspected and get termite bonds for security. If there are any signs of termite activity, ensure that issues are caught before they become more serious.

Cardboard-Like Chambers

The chambers will contain the actual termites and their colonies, as well as the food that the termites have collected and their waste. This type of termite infestation can be serious because of the damage that these tiny insects are capable of causing. A homeowner needs to be aware of the signs of termites in the home, such as cardboard-like chambers. 

This is important because termite infestations can be hard to detect until damage is noticed. If these signs are noticed, a qualified professional should be called to help investigate and determine if termites are present in the home.

Sawdust Piles 

Termites feed on wood, breaking it down and leaving behind small piles of sawdust. This sawdust can be a tell-tale sign of termites, as these insects make tiny tunnels inside the wood and use their droppings to help build their nests. These tunnels can weaken the structural integrity of the wood, leaving it vulnerable to further damage and destruction.

It’s important to look for sawdust around your home if you suspect you have termites, as this is a sure sign that they have been feeding. Early detection of termites is essential for preventing serious damage to your home and structures, so taking notice of what looks like sawdust piles is essential.

Learn About the Termite Holes Today

Termite holes in the home can cause serious problems if left untreated. Look out for small, pencil-eraser-sized holes, cardboard-like chambers, and sawdust piles.

If you suspect you have termites, contact a pest control professional immediately to come and inspect the damage. Don’t wait- get your home inspected before it’s too late!

If you find this helpful and want to read more great content, check out our latest blog posts now!

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gastonia-real-estate-3-tips-for-selling-your-home

It’s time to take the next step. You’ve been saving, investing, and clearing space on your credit cards. Now is the time to cash in those chips and make your dream home a reality.

And what better place to do it than in the beautiful Carolinas? If you’re looking for a slice of paradise to call home, Gastonia is just the thing.

Whether you’re interested in a new construction, a fixer-upper, or a gated community, Gastonia has exactly what you’re looking for. If you don’t know where to begin your search? We’re here to help.

Let’s dive into Gastonia real estate.

1. Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent

Real estate in Gastonia can offer you many opportunities to find your perfect home. One of the best ways to find your new home is to enlist the help of a trusted real estate agent. A knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent can help you navigate the market with confidence and ease.

They will be able to interpret the data, make astute observations, and compare listings to make sure you are getting the best deal possible. Taking the time to find a reliable real estate agent can ensure that you are armed with the know-how to make well-informed decisions regarding your home purchase. 

2. Price It to Sell

Gastonia real estate is an exceptionally sound investment in the current market. The city boasts one of the most affordable housing prices nationwide and offers a huge variety of options to fit any budget and lifestyle. From single-family homes to condos to apartments, Gastonia has something for everyone.

Pricing Gastonia real estate to sell puts it on the top of the list for buyers looking to maximize their purchase and minimize their investment. Real estate prices in Gastonia NC are already below the national average.

Making sure that sellers put their homes at values that attract buyers ensures they get the best value for their purchase. This helps to keep the Gastonia real estate market vibrant and gives homeowners the confidence they need to invest in their dream of owning a home in this great city.

3. Make the Property Easy to Show

When it comes to selling your home in Gastonia Real Estate, one of the most important things you can do is make the property easy to show. Showings are one of the key ways to attract potential buyers to your home and enable positive negotiations.

To make the property easy to show, you should first ensure the home is tidy and clean and any repairs needed are taken care of. Make sure there is easy access to the home by having a lockbox with the key so that brokers don’t have to coordinate with you for every single showing.

Additionally, ensure that the property is up-to-date and appealing; go the extra mile and enhance its curb appeal and stage the interior to be sure that it’s attractive to potential buyers. Taking these quick fix steps will make the property easy to show and will help you get offers quickly and for the right price.

Learn More About Gastonia Real Estate

Gastonia real estate has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for an affordable rental property or a first-time homebuyer, you have plenty of options.

Take the time to research the area and contact local professionals for help finding the right property for you. 

Visit our blog for more!

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5-affordable-home-improvements-to-add-major-value

Wondering what affordable home renovation ideas to do around your property?

There is a whole range of improvements you can make to your home that will not only raise its value but give you more value for your money. So what are the most affordable home improvements with a high-profit return wise?

Well, if you’ve got the money to invest in your property, this is the article for you. So read on and find out more, and you might be surprised at how much you can increase your property value.

1. Fresh Paint

You need to consider fresh paint for a home makeover. It is a great way to add color, vibrancy, character, and a modern touch to a room without spending a fortune on furniture, appliances, and other items. By adding a fresh coat of paint to the rooms, you will instantly create a classic look and refresh the feel of your home.

2. Landscaping

An inviting entryway, well-manicured lawns and gardens, attractive trees and bushes, and efficient irrigation systems can all give buyers the assurance they’re looking for in a home. Simple modifications like adding a few shrubs, trees, flowers, and conifers to your yard can make a major difference in how desirable the home appears.

Additionally, an efficient water and irrigation system can save money and resources over time as well. A carefully designed landscaping plan can be an economical way to add much-needed value to your home.

3. Insulation

Cellulose insulation is a great choice for adding insulation to your home. It is highly energy efficient which can save you money on energy bills. It can not only prolong the life of your home and preserve its value, but it can also increase its comfort for you and your family.

Cellulose is also more environmentally friendly than many other types of insulation as it is made from recycled paper and other natural materials making it an eco-friendly choice. It is also easier to install than most other insulation types. To learn more about the benefits of cellulose insulation, start your research today.

4. Redo the Lighting Fixtures

With only a modest investment, you can completely change the look and feel of a room or area. Quite often, old or outdated lighting fixtures can date home and be a real eyesore. But taking the time to upgrade them can give the room a much-needed lift like nothing else can.

Many great lighting fixtures are available online for great prices and are easy to install. This improvement could make kitchens, bathrooms, and other living areas look newer and have a more modern appeal.

5. Replacing the Front Door

Replacing the front door is an affordable home improvement that can add major value to your home. A new door can bring in more natural light and create a more inviting entryway.

A new door could also increase your home’s curb appeal,  which is important for selling your home and attracting potential renters. You can replace the front door on a tight budget. It is an investment that will pay off in the long run and will provide an excellent return on your investment.

Level Up With These Affordable Home Improvements

Affordable home improvements can be a great way to level up your home. Simply look around, identify where some affordable improvements can be made, and plan for your project.

So why not start today? With a little research and effort, you can easily make your home more livable, comfortable, and valuable. 

For more articles like this, check out our other posts.

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family-homes-5-features-to-look-for

Buying a new family home is an exciting undertaking. The challenges of finding what they need can sometimes lead to headaches for buyers. Knowing what to look for will help buyers enjoy the process rather than feeling stressed.

Growing Families Have Many Needs

While a single person may have few requirements for their new home, young families often need homes that will grow with them. Parkside Homes offers solutions for every family. The goal of searching for a new home is to avoid settling for less than perfect. Most people buy a home to live there for many years or a lifetime.

Five Factors Essential for New Homes:

The key to finding the perfect home is to know the factors to consider. Approaching the home buying process practically will help buyers avoid the pitfalls of home ownership. Families need to think ahead so they do not grow out of their homes too quickly.

An Expansive Yard

One of the first things many buyers consider is the size of the yard. Families with small children will appreciate a large yard for playtime. Those who like to entertain need space for BBQs and outdoor parties. As families look at homes, they should consider the possibilities. Picture the backyard with furniture, an outdoor kitchen, and plenty of play room and see if it appeals to the family’s needs.

Plenty of Bedrooms

Making sure every family member has their own bedroom is a priority. Families with small children may think it appropriate to share a bedroom space, but this becomes more challenging as kids grow into teens and young adults. When everyone has their own room, they have a space that is just theirs, where they can get away from the world.

Large Kitchen with an Open Plan

Kitchens with open floorplans offer more room for families to cook together. An open floor plan helps families avoid overcrowding in the kitchen. Everyone will have their own space. Consider the imaginary triangle for the main kitchen components, the sink, stove, and refrigerator. Cramped kitchens will make cooking together uncomfortable for everyone.

Many Storage Options

Homes must have plenty of storage options. Families often have many belongings. Having a place to put it all keeps things looking tidy. Make sure every room has shelving and drawers to keep items out of sight and neatly stored.

Multiple Laundry Rooms

Large families have tons of laundry. Those purchasing a two-story home should consider one with a laundry room upstairs and downstairs. Families can never have too much laundry space. Splitting the laundry demands between at least two rooms will help speed up laundry day efforts.

Consider a Large Family Room

In addition to the above, families need a place for entertainment, where everyone can gather and enjoy time spent together. The den is a place for toys, video games, television, and entertainment. These rooms should be cozy and inviting so everyone feels welcome. Most families find the den their favorite place in the home outside the kitchen.

Start the Hunt Today

Finding the perfect family home is not as challenging as it seems. Families may consider custom-built homes if they cannot find the features they are looking for in a home. Families must first know their needs before starting the hunt. Sit down and get everyone together and make a list of the top priorities. Look for homes that match these needs.

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which-home-architecture-do-you-like-best

Would you like to design a residential space that matches your needs and preferences?

Whether you’re moving into a new home or re-designing your present abode, you need to know your options. As you plan your future home, you may consider a variety of home architecture styles.

From modern to classic designs, there’s plenty of variety on the market. Each home style serves the needs of a variety of families, so you need to do your research thoroughly.

To help you out, we’ve outlined some of the most common home architecture styles below. Let’s dive in.

Art Deco

Art Deco architecture is a style of home architecture that was popular in the 1930s. It features bold, geometric shapes, such as zigzags and chevrons, as well as bright colors and high ceilings. It also includes intricate metalwork on doors and windows.

Modern Art Deco home architecture often includes features like modern tubular steel construction. Art Deco homes often use bright, reflective glass and chrome accents for a more dramatic effect and increased curb appeal. 

Asian

In Asian countries, there is a wide range of home architecture styles to choose from. Each county has its style of home architecture with its unique features and characteristics.

In Japan, traditional homes often feature tatami mats. They have intricately painted sliding doors called fusuma. And it also features paper-thin walls called shoji.

In India, typical house styles include the Kerala-style nalukettu, which has traditional courtyards. There is also the Bengal-style muktanasthana. This type of Indian-style architecture includes large open spaces for lavish entertaining.

In China, the hutongsa traditional lane-style of houses is still popular. It features arched doorways, tiled roofs, courtyards, and gardens that connect the houses.

Craftsman 

Craftsman is a home design characterized by a balance between functionalism and ornamentation. The homes have clean lines and use natural materials, such as wood and stone. Furthermore, these homes emphasize comfort and warmth through natural lighting and ventilation.

They feature extensive use of exposed beams, columns, and rafters, as well as built-in cabinets and shelving. They also feature large porches that wrap around the house, providing shade and a place to relax. So if this type of design appeals to you, you are gonna need to work with people like this construction company to achieve its style.

Contemporary 

Contemporary homes combine clean lines, expansive windows, and simplistic, efficient designs. A contemporary design often features an open home floor plan which promotes airiness and increased light flow. These homes often use smooth surfaces, such as glass and metal, to achieve an air of modernity and sophistication. 

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean architectural style features a white stucco exterior and a red-hued tile roof. It has been popular for centuries in the Mediterranean Sea, Italy, Spain, and the Southwestern United States.

The style features bright, open floor plans, courtyards, patios, gardens, and arches. The interior design includes high ceilings, wood or tile floors, and arched doorways. Also common in this design are large windows allowing a great amount of natural light to enter the building. 

Modern

Modern home architecture is often sleek and airy. It utilizes advanced technologies like solar power and green insulation. Modern homes often feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls and surfaces. This maximizes the use of natural light and reduces energy costs.

Natural elements like stone, wood, metal, and glass elements can be mixed for unique, beautiful results. Unique materials and shapes can also be used to create modern focal points. 

Plantation

Plantation architecture refers to a style of home that was popularized in the 19th century in the Southern United States. It features column-adorned wraparound porches and tall ceilings with elaborate moldings. They are reminiscent of the grand estate homes of the French and Spanish colonists in the South.

Plantation homes are usually built on large properties. They incorporate the land’s landscaping and foliage into the design of the home. These homes were built to be durable and inviting.

Prairie

Prairie architecture is a style that draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the American Midwest region. It was first popularized in the early 20th century by influential architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright.

Prairie homes are typically two stories. They have steeply pitched roof lines, broad overhangs, and expansive windows to create an open, airy feel. Many of them feature an open floor plan, with public areas like the living room, dining room, and kitchen flowing smoothly into one another.

The façade will be brick or masonry and accented with large square columns for lavish detailing. The most distinguishing feature of Prairie architecture is its emphasis on horizontal lines. The overall effect is majestic and timeless.

Townhouse

Generally considered to be a type of row house, townhouses are often stacked in groups of two to four stories and have a multi-level roof. Typically there are rooms on every level, with a full or half bath and kitchen either on the first floor or basement level.

This design gives townhouses a unique and compact feel. So they are ideal for busy professionals and families living in crowded urban areas. 

Victorian 

Victorian home architecture is well-known for its grand and ornate architecture. It often features unique elements such as steeply pitched roofs and heavy, ornate front and back porches.

These homes are often constructed of brick or wood and painted in either bright or muted colors. They typically feature expansive bay or bow windows, tall ceilings, and a variety of decorative elements. This decoration can come in the form of columns, wreaths, and dentil molding.

Other features may include columns or pilasters with capitals, arched entrance ways, and ironwork. Inside, these homes often boast carved moldings, hardwood floors, and ornate fireplace mantels. 

Home Architecture Styles and Designs Fit for Your Needs

Home architecture is a reflection of the cultures, styles, and materials used in different regions and eras. That’s why each type of home architecture boasts its unique attributes. 

So if you’re starting to build a home, you should explore the different types of home architecture. This will help you select a style and shape that best suits your needs. Discovering the characteristics of each type of architecture is the first step in finding your family’s dream home! 

For more articles, check out the rest of our site.

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how-to-buy-a-home-after-retirement

Thinking about buying a home after retirement? Housing offers financial, lifestyle, and health benefits that make it a great retirement decision.

But, you might not know how to go about buying a home after retirement, especially if you are new to the housing market. So, how does the buying process work if you are retired? How much does it cost to buy a house after retirement?

Ready to learn more? Then read on. Below, we discuss everything you need to know about how buy homes after retirement.

Think Local

Often after retirement, people are looking for the perfect home to downsize to. To find the best fit for you, it is important to “Think Local.” Before committing, research the local real estate market.

Attend open houses and become familiar with what is available. Rely on local experts to help you pinpoint the neighborhoods and homes that have just the right amount of space, amenities you care about, and range within your budget. 

Check Your Insurance

It’s important to make sure you’re adequately protected with insurance. Start by researching policies tailored to retirees. This also includes coverage for your:

  • property and possessions
  • natural disasters
  • liability
  • health insurance

Before you finalize the deal, review your insurance policy with an expert. This will make sure you understand the terms and coverage limits. As a retiree, you must take advantage of the benefits of final expense insurance as this is the best way for you to fund your retirement property investment.

Watch Your Debt-to-income Ratio

It is important for those looking to buy a home in retirement to watch their debt-to-income ratio. This ratio is the amount of debt you currently have with your current income. To buy a home after retirement it is important to ensure that the debt-to-income ratio is reasonable, which means that it should not exceed 36%.

In other words, the amount of debt you carry should not exceed 36% of your take-home income. Furthermore, with a good debt-to-income ratio, one can generally qualify for a mortgage term after retirement with better interest rates and loan terms, which can ultimately save you money in the long run.

 

Compare Home Prices

When you are looking to choose the options for homes after retirement, the first step should be to compare home prices in the area. Prices can differ significantly from town to town, so it is important to determine the best value. Research the local market, the property values, and the average cost of homes to help narrow down your search.

Contact real estate agents for information about the current market and for estimates of what your purchase price should be. Additionally, look for communities that offer retirement specials or discounts.

Examine the amenities, property taxes, and community rules to ensure it is the right fit for you. Finally, inspect the property both inside and out to make sure the dwelling is met your needs and budget.

Consider to Buy Homes After Retirement

Purchasing a home after retirement is a rewarding experience, and a great way to enjoy the lifestyle you’ve always wanted. Knowing the right questions to ask and taking the time to research has never been more important.

Take the time to do your research, get the right advice, and have a clear plan before you buy homes after retirement. Don’t let retirement stop you from owning your dream home–call a real estate professional today to get started on your journey.

If you want to read more articles, visit our blog.

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4-floor-maintenance-tips-all-homeowners-should-know

Everyone will have their own opinions on what causes the floors in the homes to become damaged. Some people might blame other occupants for damages, whereas others might think wear and tear bring about such an issue.

Unless you take measures to maintain your floors, such problems could also increase. But, if you don’t know a lot about maintenance, you might feel apprehensive.

Whether you own an apartment building or a condo, there are a few things to consider when you want to know floor maintenance tips. Here are some tips that you can use to maintain your floor. 

Keep reading!

1. Always Use a Vacuum

Vacuuming on a regular basis is one of the best ways to keep your floors looking clean and new. Be sure to vacuum all carpeted areas, as well as hardwood floors and tiles.

Always use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to avoid scratching or damaging your floors. Be sure to vacuum in the corners and other hard-to-reach areas.

2. Regularly Mop

One of the most important things you can do to maintain your flooring is to regularly mop it. This will help to remove dirt, dust, and other debris that can build up over time and lead to wear and tear.

It’s important to use the right type of mop and cleaning solution for your particular flooring type and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, you should mop your floors at least once a week, or more often if they get a lot of traffic.

3. Hire a Professional to Deep Clean 

Preventive maintenance is key to keeping your floors looking their best.  Deep cleanings are also important, but these should be done by a professional. They have the experience and equipment to clean your floors properly without damaging them.

Many floor types require special care, and a professional will know how to clean them correctly. You can also revamp your flooring with the help of jorgensenflooring.com.

4. Seal Your Floors 

Sealing your floors will protect them from dirt, spills, and everyday wear and tear. It will also make them easier to clean and keep them looking like new.

There are many different types of sealants available for floor maintenance. Homeowners should know which type of sealant is best for their flooring type before beginning any cleaning or maintenance project. The wrong type of sealant can damage flooring, so it is important to consult a professional before starting any work.

With the proper tools and techniques, most flooring types can be cleaned and sealed easily and effectively.

Try These Floor Maintenance Tips Today

Although it is a big investment for any homeowner, with the right floor maintenance tips, it can last for many years. Cleaning and maintaining your floors regularly will not only make them look nicer but will also extend their lifespan.

What are you waiting for? Try these floor cleaning maintenance tips today! 

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how-to-give-your-home-a-luxury-feel

Have you always wanted a luxury home that feels stylish, chic, and modern all at the same time?

Well, you’ll be glad to hear that creating a home of luxury is relatively easy. You don’t need to spend thousands on the most extravagant items or slave away for hours to make your home look perfect.

Simple and affordable tweaks to your interior design can make all the difference to the appearance and vibe of your home. You can create a luxurious feel on a budget by updating your furniture, finding classy ornaments, or replacing old carpets with modern alternatives. 

How to Give Your Home a Luxury Feel

Below, we’ve compiled a list of top tips to help you create a feeling of luxury throughout your home. You don’t need to do everything on this list but have some fun modernizing your home and seeing what works well for you.

1. Update Your Furniture

Getting new furniture is one of the most effective ways to create a luxurious vibe in your house. Here are some simple furniture upgrades that you can make in your home for maximum effect:

  • Treat yourself to some new designer sofas for the living room
  • Place a plush, fluffy rug on the floor of your living room
  • Include a mirrored table in your entranceway
  • Buy a new bed or update the headboard
  • Get yourself a new three-piece suite for the bedroom
  • Treat yourself to a new dining table and set of chairs

There are plenty of other great ways to modernize your furniture. The list above only just scratches the surface!

Buying lots of brand-new furniture can be expensive. However, it’s worth spending the money on high-quality items that will last for decades to come. If you’re shopping on a budget, consider buying from second-hand shops to find cheap deals.

2. Use Mirrors to Enhance Each Room

Decorating your home with mirrors is one of the easiest ways to add a touch of luxury to your house. They’re affordable and easy to get your hands on. Most furniture stores have a wide selection of wall mirrors and standing mirrors to choose from.

Get yourself a range of mirrors to include in each room, including some smaller desktop mirrors and some larger freestanding options. To make your rooms look grand and luxurious, place the mirrors by the windows. They will reflect as much natural light as possible, making the room look brighter and more inviting.

Consider hanging some mirrors up in your entranceways and hallways too. They will create an immediate luxury vibe when you and your guests enter your property.

3. Create Luxury with Your Home Accessories

As small as home accessories are, they can make all the difference to the way your house looks and feels. Shop around for some elegant accessories to add to each room in your home.

Scented potpourri, brass ornaments, or silver vases are all great accessories to enhance your interior design in a subtle, yet effective way. Place your accessories strategically to make the largest visual impact and create an all-around feeling of sophistication in your home.

Avoid overdoing it with your accessories. Cluttering your rooms with lots of random pieces can cause your house to look the opposite of luxurious! Think minimalist!

4. Don’t Forget About Your Outdoor Space

If you have a garden on your property, it’s important not to forget about it when you’re trying to create an atmosphere that screams elegance and sophistication. No matter how great the interior of your home looks, this won’t be conveyed to passers-by if the exterior of your property doesn’t match.

You may wish to wait until after you’ve modernized the interior of your home before focusing on the garden, or vice versa. Creating a luxury vibe in your garden is arguably easier than doing so inside your house.

Often, all it takes to make your garden appear classy and chic is a quick lick of paint on the fencing, a coating of gloss on the patio panels, and a selection of new outdoor furniture.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can install spotlights in between the stones of your garden path or buy a stunning sculpture to capture people’s attention. 

Make sure to pull up all of the pesky weeds from your garden to create space for some new, fresh plants and flowers.

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prep-your-home-for-fall-with-these-5-steps

The transition from summer to fall is an ideal time to make home renovations. With the weather getting cooler and the desire for hygge inspiration, it’s time to make sure the interior of your home is ready for you to cozy up for winter. Making sure the exterior of your home is ready to handle the cold should be on the list as well. If you follow these five tips, your home’s interior and exterior will be ready in no time.

1. Clean the Interior


Since you’ll be spending more time inside, you want your home space to be clean and tidy. Deep clean the floors, bathrooms, and any other areas that track in a lot of dirt like the mudroom. This is also a good time to consider adding an air purification system to help create a healthier environment. In addition to cleaning the floors, you should also wash your curtains as well as any blankets you’ve pulled out for the colder months. Check your smoke detectors and replace any old light bulbs. Also, organize your pantry,
closets, and other storage areas for easy access.

2. Make Kitchen Upgrades

Fall and winter lend themselves to more time in the kitchen cooking soups and stews, plus hosting friends and family for the holidays. If you’ve been considering upgrading your kitchen, this is a good time to plan and complete this home project. With a kitchen renovation, you’ll need to plan ahead to eat meals out or with your family and prepare any safety measures. When remodeling your kitchen consider upgrading your counters, cupboards, sink, and appliances to newer energy-efficient models. To help fund a home renovation, consider using money that’s tied up in your home with a tax-deductible home equity loan. This type of loan will tend to have a lower interest rate than a personal loan option. Depending on the extent of your renovation, you may opt to change the whole layout by adding or removing elements, like an island for example. You also might want to update the backsplash, countertops, and sink style.

3. Check Home Insulation


With colder months coming, you want to make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. This will help keep the warm air in and in turn, keep your energy costs down. Walk through your home and check all windows for gaps or areas where light is coming in. If there are spaces, you’ll need to re-seal the windows to close any exposed openings. Another step that you can take is adding a piece of window insulation film to all of your windows. Doing this can help retain 55% more heat in your home during the winter. For the doorways of your home, it’s the same idea. The best way to do this is by adding weatherstripping materials. If this isn’t an option, an inexpensive fix is adding a fabric door draft stopper.

4. Service Your Heating System


Before you have to turn up the heat, you should have a specialist come to your home to check that all components are working properly. Maintaining the longevity and quality of your HVAC system requires proper maintenance. If you can’t get a specialist out to service your system, check and replace air filters and run the unit prior to its first use. Consider utilizing a home warranty plan to help cover repair costs or replacement of your HVAC system should something go wrong. Lastly, if you don’t already have one, consider purchasing a programmable thermostat. With this, you can schedule when the heat turns on and off. This can help lower your overall energy usage and costs.

5. Prepare the Exterior for Fall and Winter months


Before the winter months, you need to check your roof. Inspect for any loose or broken shingles. Look for mold and mildew spots, moss growth, or any other signs of wear and tear. Alongside this task, clean out your gutters and remove any extra debris. If you have a chimney and fireplace, you’ll want to have it cleaned and inspected prior to using it for the season. You should also check for any hanging trees and remove any that could cause damage during a storm.

With these tips, you’ll be ready for cozy fall evenings and the holiday season. You spend a lot of time at home in the cooler months so having a space you love is important so you can enjoy a restful and happy season!

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4-upgrades-to-consider-if-you-want-to-increase-your-homes-value

There are many reasons why people would want to upgrade their homes. Of course, the first is that your home is where you will spend a lot of time with your family, so you would naturally want it to be an aesthetically pleasing place.

Another reason why you should consider upgrading your house is the fact that it will boost your house’s value, which means that if you ever decide to sell it, you may be able to get a better price for it. But with so many upgrades out there, how do you know which ones are worth it? If this is what you’re asking yourself, you’ve come to the right place.  

Build a deck

More and more people are looking for outdoor entertainment areas in their homes, so if you sell your house and it has a deck, it will instantly attract more buyers, and you will also be able to ask more for it. 

And if you don’t plan on selling your house any time soon, a deck is still a great option because if the inside of your house feels a bit cramped, you can always entertain outside. Have a look at Valleywide fence and deck to learn more.

Upgrade your kitchen 

If you truly want to boost your home’s value, you should redo every single room. But while this would be ideal, most people don’t have the money to do this. If you can only afford to renovate one room in your house, it should be your kitchen. 

This is something that most buyers look for, and an upgraded kitchen can help you raise your asking price by a lot. If you do upgrade your kitchen, be sure to follow these kitchen organization ideas to keep things looking tidy. 

Redo your bathroom 

If you don’t think your kitchen needs an upgrade, another room you should focus on is your bathroom. Once again, this is one aspect of a house that will often make or break a sale. 

You can redo the entire bathroom by changing the layout and perhaps adding a shower if there is currently only a bath, or you can leave the structure as is and focus on smaller details like the bathroom tiles. If you’re still not convinced whether this is a good idea, you can read this post to learn about reasons why you may need to remodel your bathroom. 

Replace your flooring 

You’d be surprised at what a difference new flooring can make. Our floors often experience a lot of wear and tear, so replacing your flooring can give your entire house a face lift. You can stick to the same flooring you currently have, or you can switch it out for something more modern. Laminated and hardwood floors are always popular with home buyers, but there are also some great carpeting and tiled floor options available. You might want to compare hardwood floors with tiles if you’re not sure which upgrade is best for your house.

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