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HOME DECOR, HOME STAGING

Home Decor vs Home Staging

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I get asked this question all of the time especially from clients looking to sell their home.  Just this week, in fact, I had to deal with some sellers who were confused (and a bit argumentative) that the terms home staging and home decor were the same thing – they are not!

Most people are very surprised to hear that they are almost the opposite of each other. 

Preparing a home to sell is very different than preparing a home to live in.

So this image is a great looking living room BUT if this person was selling, we would highly recommend painting those walls in a more neutral and lighter tone.  We would also suggest removing the personal photos from the side table.

Home Decor –

When you move into a home (and everyone does this, it’s totally normal) you want it to work for your lifestyle and reflect your personal tastes. You likely bought the home in the first place because it accommodated your lifestyle. Maybe you don’t need a kitchen nook but and office or a piano would be better for you, maybe you love bold and bright colours all over the walls, maybe you don’t have a dining set but a pool table instead – those are all your taste and lifestyle choices – that is home decorating.

Buyers are looking for light, clean and bright homes with neutral and quality finishes.

 

Home staging –

When it comes to selling your home, buyers will focus on the crazy colours, the choice and location of furniture even though they are just buying the home not the contents inside. 

Visualization is so important. The buyers need to see themselves in the space and mentally move in.  So keeping it clean, neutral and some furniture (in a simple set up) that can help buyers visualize their furniture in (hopefully) their new home.  The furniture, art and accessories should compliment the home and not be the primary focus – what are you trying to sell ?  the home, or the furniture?

If you are selling your home and want top dollar (who doesn’t) you must put some work into it – re-paint in a neutral tone, clean the house, place furniture in areas or in a formation that would work for most buyers – this is called home staging.

Neutralize and De-personalize-

Remove the personal touches from your house.  That includes: bold paint colours and accent walls, personal family photos that are on display, religious items, collectibles and any unusual furniture arrangement (see the comment about an eat-in kitchen as an office).  You need to make this house as appealing as possible and buyers will see it in photos first and those photos need to shine!

 

 

For selling your home (and staging your home) this dining space looks great! It’s light, neutral and minimal decor.  The drapery is pulled back and letting the light in.

 

Going overboard with decor –

I also get sellers who want more and more furniture and art and accessories – every corner and every wall space covered or filled – again that’s not home staging.  Yes, once the new owners move into any space they will fill it up with items and accessories of their choice but when a home is shown/viewed by potential buyers and there isn’t any wall space or any room to move – they feel cramped and overwhelmed.

 

No one ever says to their agent – “It’s cramped, dark, dirty and feels small – I love it!” If you follow your home stagers advice your home will be more sale-able – it will appeal to more buyers and you will get good offers.

 

This personalized family gallery wall is so cute but NOT for selling your home.  You don’t want buyers to feel like they are visiting, you want them to imagine their life in the house.  So personal decor like this gallery wall would have to be packed away.  Instead replace it will landscapes or simple photography (not family images) – the gallery formation is fine and it’s still a popular look – just be aware of what’s on display.

 

Mass appeal –

I hear from sellers all of the time ‘well, this is how I would do it if I were living here’ – that’s great but you have decided not to live here anymore SO you need to move on and allow someone else in and live how they would live in the space. 

A home stager is an impartial party who can help you place furniture (or just give you ideas) to create flow and mass appeal, they can also recommend paint colours for creating a calm and soothing space, they can also give you great ideas to create curb appeal.

 

How you live in a home and how you sell a house are very different….

 

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HOME STAGING

The benefits of staging your home

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The spring real estate market is here and real estate agents are on the move!
The spring market is also very competitive, so how can you set your home apart from others?
By staging it. Staging is a process that includes cleaning, eliminate clutter, removing, re-purposing and presenting.

A professional stager will see your home the way a buyer would want to. When you stage you should be featuring the selling points of your home such as high ceilings, large living space, beautiful neighbourhood, natural light etc…

Stagers will simplify or streamline the furniture in a room for better traffic flow and to enhance its spaciousness. They may neutralize a too-personal color scheme or add touches of color or accessories where needed. Staging helps exhausted buyers “mentally move in” and feel that when they move in for real, they’ll be able to kick back for awhile and relax.

Staging helps your buyer fall in love with your home. Certain personal objects, pictures,and furnishing layouts can confuse and deter buyers; having a stager will help avoid common pitfalls sellers make. Selling at the best price involves more than hiring an agent and placing a sign on the lawn.

Statistics are showing that staged homes can sell up to 50% faster and for an average price increase of 7%. Staging your home prior to listing is the best way to ensure the highest return on your valuable investment.

When a potential home buyer enters your home you really only get one chance to make that all-important first impression; many buyers actually make up their minds about whether or not they like a house within the first 10 seconds. Home staging is a simple and cost effective way to “present” your home for the buying audience so you create a great first impression, stand out from other listings, and linger in the mind of the buyer.

Real Estate Agents will make some suggestions on how to present your home but a real estate team such as The Bennett Real Estate Pros (http://www.bennettpros.com/) work exclusively with a staging company to help their clients present their home in the best possible light and maximize on their most important asset.

Set yourself apart from the competition and get ready to sell!
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HOME STAGING

What is Home Staging?

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What is Home Staging?Home Staging is the un-decorating or de-personalizing of your home in preparation to sell.

When you first move in to your home you want to make it yours. You paint it the colours you like, you add personal photographs and your furniture is positioned to suit your lifestyle. But when it comes time to sell your home, you need to think about presenting your home’s best features and assets and to make it appealing to as many potential purchasers as possible.

 

Here are the top tip to make your home looks its best before your first open house:

 

1. Clean up!

Make sure the house is clean. Bathrooms, the kitchen and floors. It might seem like a lot of work but if you want top dollar for your home you cannot afford to “turn off” the guests at your open house. It is also really important to deodorize  your house especially if you have pets!

 

2. De-clutter!

Throughout our daily life we all accumulate clutter – the pile of bills, our bottles of vitamins on the bathroom countertop, small appliances on the kitchen countertop and stacks of papers and files in our home office, but it is so important to remove all of this clutter. Clutter makes any space feel much smaller and seeing as purchasers are likely looking for a larger space or at least a space that appears larger, you want to make sure your home feels spacious.

 

3. Repair!

It is important to fix any repairs in the home. A cracked tile or a leaky faucet can tarnish the image of your home. Remember you want to present your home at its absolute best! A buyer will pay top dollar for a property that has done the ‘leg’ work on getting the home in tip-top shape.  Small repairs send a message to the buyers (and their agent) that there could be bigger issues beneath the surface and it will impact their offer (if they make one).

 

4. Colour!

It is not necessary for everyone to re-paint their home before your realtor takes photos for the listing but you might want to consider painting if…your house has not been painted in about 10 years, if your home is currently painted in really bright or intense coulours such as deep reds or bright lime green, or if your walls are in bad shape. A fresh coat of paint can make a home feel clean and if you select the right tone, larger. Tones to look at should have a LRV (light reflective value) of 50 or higher. Stick with neutrals – a home stager can help you pick the right colour of paint.  Yo want one that will lighten and brighten but also one that will work with the light and the existing finishes in the home.

 

5. Furniture!

You want to make sure your furniture is clean so remove or cover stains and get rid of the pet hair – it just looks so much better. The positioning of the furniture is also very important and this is where you might want to get the help and advice from a professional. Just re-positioning or re-purposing your furniture pieces can make a huge impact. The way we place our furniture pieces can make a room look large or small and remember when it comes to selling your home, bigger is better!

 

6. De-personalize!

This can be the toughest tip to follow especially if it is your family home you are leaving. When people come to tour through your home at the open house, it is important that they can see themselves living in your home and that can be hard with your family photos and memories all over the home. Just think of this part as pre-packing for your move and you’ll see your photos again soon in your new home.

 

How do I get in touch with a home stager? Some real estate teams have stagers on staff, such as the Bennett Property Shop, offer the services of a stager to their clients. They will even have the stager prep your home for the professional photographer so your listing photos look their absolute best!

 

The process of staging can seem like a lot of work but it is worth it. Staged homes sell faster and for more money!

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BUILDING + LAND, home renovation

Beyond Savings: 7 Reasons to Make the Switch to Solar Power

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Property owners and managers usually spend money on maintenance and upgrades to improve the longevity and attractiveness of their property. However, some install solar panels to reduce reliance on grid electricity and save money.

A quality, well-installed solar panel can provide enough power for a homestead for years. Solar systems require minimal maintenance and can last at least two decades without expensive repairs or replacement. However, the advantages of solar power go beyond these. This article highlights seven reasons property owners and managers should consider switching to solar energy.

Reduced Electricity Consumption

Uninterrupted power supply is essential for homes and industries. It keeps machinery and appliances running smoothly and prevents interruptions affecting production or routine chores at home. However, achieving reliable, uninterrupted power can be expensive due to backup generators and infrastructure costs.

For example, electric power backup solutions like a generator or large battery require significant upfront investment. Additionally, maintaining and running backup systems adds to the overall expense of ensuring buildings have enough power, even during power outages.  

Solar panels offer a sustainable and affordable way of generating electricity. They allow business operators and homeowners to rely less on the traditional power grid and reduce electricity bills.

However, property owners can only enjoy the full benefits of going solar if they choose the right system for their needs. So, property owners should work with solar power of oklahoma to install the best system. Reputable solar installers can help ensure the power system operates efficiently and produces maximum power.

High Return on Investment

Solar systems can be affordable to install, especially with tax incentives or rebates. However, quality systems require a significant upfront investment, including the buying price and professional installation, to ensure sufficient power supply.

Investing in a solar system has a great return on investment. Homeowners can recoup the money spent on solar power systems within a few years since they will pay low or no electric bills. Over time, the long-term savings on energy costs can outweigh the initial expenses, making solar systems a smart financial choice for homeowners.

Higher Property Value

Many home buyers want value for their investment, so they look for energy-efficient homes. They look for homes with modern appliances and good insulation to ensure comfort and lower utility costs.

Buyers also value homes with sustainable features, like solar panels, which offer long-term savings on energy bills. Therefore, homeowners who invest in solar systems will likely sell their property quickly and get more offers.

However, homeowners should work with a professional to maximize power from the solar system and complement their roof’s aesthetics. Involving solar experts might seem costly, but the results are worth every penny. Besides, the property owner recoups the money in energy savings or when selling the house.

More Environmental Benefits

Some power sources use coal, oil, diesel, or natural gas, which can harm the environment. Burning these fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

On the other hand, solar energy is renewable and emits no harmful pollutants. These qualities make it a good power source for homes and business premises.

Property owners who go solar will utilize the sun’s energy and rarely rely on fossil fuels or grid electricity. Therefore, installing solar systems helps reduce pollution, mitigate climate change and conserve natural resources.

Lower Health Risks

Harmful emissions from power plants, especially those burning nonrenewable energy sources, can cause severe health complications. Air pollution from these plants contributes to respiratory and other health problems that may require specialized treatment.

Companies that use power plants to generate energy may incur huge losses on compensation if workers take legal action after developing diseases associated with inhaling harmful substances. Homeowners may also spend time in hospital if harmful emissions from power plants cause health complications.

Property owners can reduce the demand for alternative power sources by installing a solar system. This can reduce the need to generate power-using power stations, which might affect the environment or human health. Solar radiation does not pose health risks, which means that users of solar panels are safe. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions can also slow climate change, such as heat waves and heat-related illnesses.

Resilience and Independence

Businesses suffer substantial financial losses after storms and natural disasters cause power outages. Homeowners also experience disruptions to their daily schedules when power goes off unexpectedly.

Homeowners and companies can enjoy uninterrupted power during outages with a good solar system and reliable battery storage. The battery provides reliable backup, ensuring critical activities that require power remain operational even when the grid electricity fails. This reduces financial losses, improves energy security, and minimizes disruptions caused by unexpected power failures.

Power in Different Seasons

Investing in solar systems ensures a reliable power supply across various regions and seasons. Solar panels only require sunlight to generate electricity, making them effective even in areas with shorter daylight hours, as long as they have access to sunlight during the day.

Buyers should consider systems with modern solar technology, which ensures power generation in diverse climates. For instance, some panels are designed to perform well in colder or cloudy weather. Such systems make solar energy a dependable solution that owners can rely on for consistent electricity all year round despite weather changes.

Home and business owners usually prefer power options that are efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective. Quality solar panels can offer these benefits and ensure they get the most from their investment. However, solar installers must assess the property’s unique energy needs and consider the building’s location, roof structure, and local weather patterns to choose the right system.

Expert assessment helps recommend the right solar solution or customize the system to match the power demands. This ensures optimum energy production despite changes in power demands or weather patterns.

Professional solar installation helps guarantee continuous power supply and prevent power interruptions. Solar installers can handle intricate electrical tasks and ensure the system conforms with building rules and local laws. They also provide homeowners electricity at every power outlet to minimize inefficiencies or electrical risks.

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HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

Top Benefits of Investing in a Quality Roof for Your Property

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Introduction

When investing in your property, few things can match the importance of a sturdy, reliable roof. It’s a critical component that offers protection, enhances energy efficiency, and contributes significantly to the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. In the long term, the quality of your roof can even impact your property’s market value. With the advancements in roofing technology and materials, selecting a reputable and durable roof from manufacturers like those offered through IKO roofing is an investment that pays dividends in the form of lasting benefits, both practical and aesthetic. Choosing a suitable roofing material is essential for durability and aesthetic appeal. Experts recommend conducting thorough research to understand the various options available. Materials such as asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and clay tiles have advantages and considerations. For more information on the different roofing materials available, you can refer to resources provided by reputable organizations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).

The Importance of Quality Roofing

Quality roofing transcends its primary role of sheltering a home from the elements. It encompasses many benefits that collectively contribute to a property’s integrity and value. Properly selected and installed, high-caliber roofing materials act as a protective barrier, ensuring your home remains safe, dry, and comfortable regardless of the weather. Moreover, advanced roofing technologies have been developed to withstand severe weather conditions, offer enhanced durability, and even contribute to energy conservation, which can substantially reduce household running costs.

Enhanced Durability and Longevity

The longevity and durability of a roofing system are predictive of its ability to withstand the relentless challenges posed by the climate over time without frequent maintenance or premature failure. Choosing top-quality roofing materials and employing skilled craftsmanship can lead to a roof that lasts for decades rather than years. A resilient roof is less prone to leaks, wind damage, and other weather-related deterioration, which in the long run can equate to less frequent repairs, reduced maintenance costs, and a marked reduction in the likelihood of needing a premature and expensive replacement.

Boost in Property Value

An attractive, watertight, and resilient roof can significantly sway the appraised value of your property. It’s a clear signal to potential buyers and appraisers that the home has been prudently maintained, which often increases market value and can hasten the sales process. Choosing high-quality materials such as IKO Shingles can further enhance these benefits, as they are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. While quality roofing may come with a higher initial cost, the potential return on investment can be substantial, especially in housing markets where buyers are savvier and have heightened expectations for the homes they consider.

Superior Energy Efficiency

In this era of environmental awareness, a home’s energy efficiency is not just a personal cost concern but also a broader environmental one. An energy-efficient roof, designed to reflect solar heat and provide optimal insulation, can significantly mediate a home’s internal temperature. Such a roofing system works in tandem with other home features to maintain a consistent and comfortable climate indoors with less dependency on heating and cooling systems, which ultimately plays a critical role in reducing the carbon footprint and monthly energy expenses.

Improved Home Security and Protection

Although less immediately apparent than other benefits, the enhanced security offered by a quality roof cannot be overstated. A roof in good repair is steadfast against environmental challenges – such as strong winds and heavy snowfall that can test the limits of lesser materials – and against the potential security risks posed by deteriorated or easily accessible roofs. Ensuring robust rooftop security mechanisms can mean distinguishing between a safe home and one vulnerable to external threats.

Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

The elements of style and visual desirability brought forth by a quality roof are evident. With a vast array of customizable options catering to different architectural styles, colors, and textures, a roof can be much more than just functional – it can be a standout feature that shapes the character and charm of your property. This curb appeal is a significant factor in the value estimation of your home. When the time comes to sell, it can make your property the envy of the neighborhood, elevating its marketability.

Connecting with Professionals

Navigating the complexities of roofing materials, their installation, and maintenance requires expertise. It’s advisable to engage with skilled professionals who can assist in making choices that align with one’s budgetary constraints and functional needs. Organizations like the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors provide knowledge on roofing systems, offering homeowners valuable insight into the finer details of roofing selection and upkeep. These experts can demystify technical jargon and simplify decision-making, ensuring the roofing investment is sound and rewarding.

Key Takeaways

  • A quality roof ensures durability and longevity and can lead to significant cost savings.
  • A quality roof can significantly enhance the resale value of a property.
  • Energy-efficient roofing promotes sustainability and reduces ongoing utility costs.
  • Advanced roofing materials provide improved protection from environmental hazards and potential security threats.
  • The aesthetic appeal of a quality roof can dramatically increase property allure for potential buyers or tenants.

Conclusion

To sum up, the advantages of investing in a quality roofing system encompass many facets. Whether it be the durability and extended lifespan, the augmentation of property value, energy efficiencies, the enhancement of security, or the boost to your property’s visual appeal, a sound roofing investment is a synonym for prudent homeownership. As the market for energy-efficient materials grows and the emphasis on sustainable living heightens.

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home renovation

9 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Property’s Interior Structure

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Are you planning on upgrading your home’s interior, but are you still looking for ideas to try out? Then, read on; this article will cover some easy upgrade ideas for your interiors.

1. Create an open floor plan design

An open floor design is when you remove the nonstructural walls of your property to create a vast and more spacious interior. This floor plan design has become more popular with many interiors, not only in one’s home interior but also in many office designs. That’s because it creates a more welcoming and open environment for people in it.

If you plan on creating an open floor plan design, it’s crucial to be mindful of your home’s structural integrity.

You can hire professionals to create and draft the structural design of your floor plans for you so that it’s more accurate and structurally sound than if you made it yourself. You can collaborate with them so that your design fits what you imagine your interiors while ensuring that your interiors are safe and follow regulations.

Photo by R ARCHITECTURE on Unsplash

2. Install new doors

Doors aren’t the most obvious thing you would change if you plan on changing your interiors in any way. However, changing them can have a massive impact on the look and feel of your interiors.

You can play around with doors in many ways to change how your interiors form. It’s a great way to open up a space.

A great example would be sliding doors leading to your gardens or backyard, which can give your home a more open vibe. On the other hand, doors that don’t have glass windows invoke a sense of privacy that is best for bedrooms or any other place in your home that you want to be more closed off from the rest of the house.

You can add a door to connected rooms that you want to combine without wrecking down a wall that you need to be there for structural reasons.

3. Install high-quality hardwood flooring

Hardwood flooring can increase your home’s value and adapt to several interior design styles. It can fit any design theme in your home, whether modern, minimalist, boho, etc.

If you have carpeting in your home, replacing it with high-quality hardwood flooring can be a better choice. It will be easier to clean and is quite durable.

One thing to note with hardwood flooring is that you should consult with professionals to ensure the hardwood won’t warp because of humidity levels in your home. If you live in a place where humidity levels fluctuate frequently, it can affect your hardwood flooring. However, getting high-quality hardwood flooring should help avoid that altogether.

What’s excellent about hardwood flooring is that it comes in different grain patterns to find styles that best fit your design preference.

4. Transform your space with a fresh coat of paint

Photo by Roselyn Tirado on Unsplash

An affordable way to feel like you’ve upgraded your interiors would be to get a fresh coat of paint.

If you choose the right paint, you can even change the atmosphere of a room. For example, if you get or use brighter colors for your walls, your interiors will feel a lot more spacious and grand. On the other hand, if you get darker colors, they can evoke a sense of elegance and privacy in your interiors.

Some people opt to add an accent wall when they want the rest of the walls to have an otherwise neutral color. This accent wall can serve as the room’s centerpiece and pull focus into a room.

Your accent wall can be a great way to go wild with more exciting patterns and colors you wouldn’t want the rest of your interior walls to look like.

5. Enhance your lighting

When enhancing your interior lighting, consider your natural light sources and the light fixtures around your interiors.

With strategic placements of natural lighting, you can light up your home and make it more inviting while saving on energy in your interiors. On the other hand, your light fixtures can help light up parts of your interior that you would want to either emphasize or create a specific atmosphere around.

Your living room can benefit significantly from a lot of natural light since it seems warmer and more welcoming.

On the other hand, your nooks and bedroom can use some more atmospheric lighting that is dimmer so that you can feel relaxed while you’re there.

6. Transform your kitchen space

Photo by Bailey Alexander on Unsplash

If you constantly use the kitchen, remodeling it can be a great way to improve your property’s interiors.

You can update your kitchen appliances with a more transformed kitchen space whenever possible. It’s also a great chance to reorganize your kitchen so that the placements of kitchen appliances, tools, and the like make the most sense for you.

When upgrading your kitchen, ensure you’re mindful of whether or not you plan to resell your home. Otherwise, modifying your plan to suit your tastes might make reselling harder.

Renovating your kitchen is also a great way to give yourself more counter space or convert it into a space where people can hang out if you often entertain them.

7. Update your windows

Just as changing your doors will change the look of your home, so does changing your windows.

When your windows are outdated or broken, they can be unappealing elements of not only the inside of your home but also its exterior. That’s why updating your windows should be something you consider when updating the look of your home.

You want windows to be in places in your home where you want more ventilation and natural light. At the same time, you want the ability to make parts of your interior private whenever you need to.

Don’t forget the window treatments that go with it, such as curtains and blinds, as those can also affect the home’s appeal.

8. Renew your bathroom space

Since your bathroom is something you are in every day, you should pay more attention to it and renew it when you can.

Changing the water fixtures, lighting, and even the tiles can make an otherwise practical space into one you enjoy being in.

Don’t forget to consider your bathroom’s storage space on top of your bathroom counter and cabinets.

9. Craft custom built-ins for your space

Nothing can make your home feel more luxurious regardless of whether your expenditures for them or not match custom built-ins for your space.

For example, you may have pets running around your house. Creating custom storage spaces for their items can ensure they adapt to the home rather than just placing them here and there.

If you’re not planning on reselling your home, then customizing your home for your specific lifestyle can make you feel more at home.

Conclusion

With these interior ideas, you should find at least one thing that resonates with your lifestyle. Whether upgrading your home for better resell value or making it as comfortable as possible, these design ideas inspire you to try at least one.

Next time you can upgrade something in your home’s interiors, consider these ideas for your property.

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FAMILY, KIDS

What Are the Four Main Types of Personalities in Children?

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Personality refers to the various quirks and qualities that you possess, all of which come together to create your character. Your personality will have been developing and adapting since birth, and is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.

If you have your own children, know somebody with young kids, or work with children as part of your job, you’ll notice that every child has their own personality. They have their own interests, quirks, and strengths, all of which contribute to their overall character.

Although each child‘s characteristics and personality traits differ from the next, based on their unique genetics and upbringing, children’s personalities can be categorised into four main types.

Every article you read on personality types is slightly different and you may see different professionals using other categories or each kid personality test giving inconsistent results. There is no one-size-fits-all and many children will fall into more than one general category because personality traits are so versatile and unique.

We’re going to discuss four of the most commonly used categories for children’s personalities in this article.

The Strong and Resilient Personality

Most children exhibit strength and resilience, especially those that have been through aversity during their early years. However, some show more strength and resilience than others.

The strong and resilient personality type is seen in children with high emotional intelligence and resilience to challenges. They demonstrate a remarkable ability to overcome difficulties and adapt to new situations very quickly.

Children with a strong and resilient personality type tend to show optimism in tough situations and are better able to form and maintain strong relationships with other children their age and adults. They tend to be more flexible to change and cope relatively well with stress.

The Shy or Anxious Personality Type

Some children are naturally more reserved and cautious and fall into the shy or anxious personality type. Although shy in larger groups, children with this type of personality can thrive individually or in one-to-one situations.

Introverted children can take a while to feel comfortable with new people, environments, and situations. They tend to be sensitive to stimuli, such as excessive lights or noise and prefer quieter environments, such as a relaxing living area at home.

The Ambitious Personality Type

Goal-orientated children can be categorised as having ambitious personalities. They strive for the best, and their determination and focus are noticeable from a young age.

These children can set high standards for themselves and are willing to put in the time and effort to accomplish their goals and achieve their dreams. They might show interest in academics, sports, or creative activities and can channel their energy and focus into their passions easily.

The Extroverted or Energetic Personality Type

Certain children can take a shine to social situations and display unmatched confidence from a very young age. These children fall into the extroverted or energetic personality type, where they display enthusiasm and have high levels of energy in most environments.They thrive in social settings and enjoy being the centre of attention. They are friendly, welcoming, and outgoing, often having strong teamwork and communication skills.

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HOME DESIGN, OUTDOORS

5 Reasons to Install Driveway Security Gates

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Think a driveway gate is just for luxury aesthetics? Think again. Driveway security gates are key in protecting your private property. They play an essential role in boosting home security and home safety.

While people are often most afraid of violent crime, the reality is that you’re much more in danger of being a victim of property crime. Making security additions to your home can make your property a much less attractive target for criminals.

Are you considering an automatic gate? This article offers compelling reasons to make this wise investment.

Driveway Security Gates Offer Added Security

One big reason to invest in a driveway security gate is that it’s a strong deterrent to unauthorized access. Security gates act as a robust barrier, discouraging potential intruders. Of course, it’s not an insurmountable obstacle, but the main goal is to make your property less attractive to criminals.

A well-configured security gate also lets you control who you let into your property. This boosts your overall sense of home protection.

Increased Privacy

If you value personal space, a driveway security gate might be for you. These gates create privacy by forming an opaque barrier between your home and the street. It shields your home from view, reducing unwanted attention from passers-by.

An added bonus is noise reduction. If you live on a noisy street, a security gate can create a quieter and more peaceful front yard atmosphere.

Safety for Kids and Pets

A driveway security gate makes your front yard safer for kids and pets. If you live on a busy street, letting them play outside can be risky. But a security gate gives you peace of mind that they won’t wander into the street.

It also keeps people or animals from entering your property. For instance, if you have a dog, you won’t worry about strays coming in and causing trouble with your pet.

Increase the Value of Your Home

Installing a security gate has its perks-it can boost your property’s value. Think of it as a long-term investment that pays off when you sell your home. Potential buyers find security gates appealing, making your property stand out in the market.

Plus, the gate is the first thing they’ll see, nailing that crucial curb appeal. So, go ahead and secure your home while upping its worth.

Improved Aesthetics

Finally, there is something more about automatic gates-you can use them to boost your home’s aesthetics. Forget the image of cold iron bars; they come in various designs that enhance your house’s look while serving a key function. With many customization options, you can showcase your personal style through your choice of security gate.

Now You Know More About Driveway Security Gates

Driveway security gates are a practical home addition. They offer security, safety, and privacy while boosting property value and aesthetics. These gates solve common homeowner problems and protect your home and family.

Are you interested in learning more about security gates? In that case, check out the rest of our blog posts.

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HOLIDAYS, REAL ESTATE

7 Mistakes To Avoid When Attempting to Exit a Timeshare

7-mistakes-to-avoid-when-attempting-to-exit-a-timeshare

Timeshares are a popular way for people to vacation because it’s such a money saver. Although having a timeshare can save you money on your vacation, timeshares come with some recurring costs that can be problematic for some people. When these costs get to be burdensome, or your life situation changes and you no longer have the need or desire to continue with vacation home ownership, it’s important to know that you’re not shackled for life. It is possible to exit a timeshare, however there are some mistakes that are important to avoid when doing so.

1. Glossing Over the Fine Print

Legal Pathways to Timeshare Cancellation will always encourage you to read the fine print in detail. Giving your attention to the fine print is one way to avoid  avoidable headaches. If you’re not sure what the timeshare contract is saying because of legal jargon, do not hesitate to bring it to an attorney. The last thing you want is for your contract to prohibit you from exiting your contract unless you meet specified conditions.

2. Lie About Why You’re Canceling

Once you’ve decided that you want to cancel your timeshare, it’s time to make your request. But when you’re explaining why you want to cancel, it’s in your best interest to tell the truth. If you tell the timeshare company that you’ve run into financial hardship or are hospitalized if in fact you are not. They can ask that you furnish proof. So if you do not have proof of the reasons you’re citing, honesty is your best bet. Remember, you are dealing with a legal contract, and being devious can hurt your case for cancellation.

3. Incorrect Correspondence

When corresponding with the timeshare company, make sure you’re using their specified method of correspondence. You don’t want to be sending emails when they require cancellation notices through the mail. Using certified or registered mail that requires a signature is the best option because it is traceable and legally binding. This will also keep the timeshare company from giving bogus excuses and employing evasive tactics.

4. Lack of Detail

As you’re drafting your cancellation letter, you want to be as detailed as you can be. Timeshares have millions of customers and it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. Foregoing vital information can stall your request or negate it altogether. Be sure to include the following:

  • The timeshare’s correct address and the contact person for cancellations
  • Your correct contact information, including email, phone, and residence
  • The title holder’s full legal name
  • Your membership or contract number
  • The date of the correspondence

5. Incorrect Tone in Correspondence

Because you’re dealing with a legal matter, it’s important not to let your emotions enter the correspondence. Take a professional and even tone. State the facts clearly and concisely. Avoiding the drama will get you a lot further, and faster.

6. Scheduling a Face-to-Face Meeting

Timeshare employees are quite pursuassive and persistent. Agreeing to a face-to-face meeting, unless it’s part of your legally signed contract, is a bad idea. They’re going to do their best to keep you or get you to sign something else that completely locks you in.

7. Unrealistic Expectations

Be prepared for the red tape. Don’t think that it will be easy and stress-free to sell your timeshare. Sometimes it’s impossible to exit your contract, and the only thing you can do is sell it on the open market. And don’t expect to get your money back when you sell it. It may be advantageous to bring in a timeshare broker to help you sell your timeshare.

It’s usually easier to buy a timeshare than to get rid of it. If you’ve hit a rough patch, it may be a better idea to rent out your weeks to help pay your fees, or hand it over to a friend or family member for a couple of years, until you’re ready to resume payment. There are options.

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HEALTH

10 of the Most Unique Retirement Communities in the US

10-of-the-most-unique-retirement-communities-in-the-us

If you are going to retire soon, maybe you are checking out retirement communities. There are many that might appeal. Perhaps you have a particular state in mind.

You may look at retirement communities in Arizona, California, or Florida. Maybe New Mexico or New York have what you want.

Perhaps you want to stay somewhere truly unique during your Golden Years, though. Let’s look at some options right now.

The Palace at Coral Gables

The Palace at Coral Gables is incredibly luxurious. There is five-star service, fine dining, and many social activities. The Four Seasons George V Hotel inspired it.

NoHo Senior Arts Colony

In North Hollywood, you will find the NoHo Senior Arts Center. It is one of the best spots for older artists and anyone who has creative energy. You will find retired Hollywood actors and writers living there.

Aegis Gardens

Aegis Gardens in California pays tribute to Asian culture. You can get traditional Cantonese and Mandarin cuisine there. The staff speaks fluent Chinese, as well as English. You can also take Tai Chi and enjoy playing Mahjong with your friends.

Lake Weir Living

Lake Weir is in central Florida. There, you can enjoy boats, RVs, hot rods, Harleys, and more. This is not a retirement community for the faint of heart.

On Top of the World

On Top of the World, also in Florida, is where you can continue meeting your fitness goals long into your retirement. There are softball fields, racquetball courts, and gyms with top-of-the-line exercise equipment.  

Lasell Village

In Lasell Village, in Massachusetts, you have to spend at least 450 hours taking classes every year. This is ideal for older adults who never want to stop learning. You can also spend time in the heated swimming pools and Pilates classes.

Fountaingrove Lodge

At Fountaingrove Lodge, the LGBTQIA+ community lives and thrives. If this is how you identify, you can spend some with your peers in comfort and security. There’s a swimming pool, and you can also find tennis courts, a golf course, and more.

Escapees CARE

Escapees CARE is a community for older individuals who like RV travel but who now need help to continue doing so. Residents can stay right there in their RV, but they will get nursing care, housekeeping services, meal prep, and anything else they require.

Shantiniketan

At Shantiniketan, close to Orlando, residents are mainly from the Indian subcontinent. They will recognize many of the customs from that part of the world. There is an onsite prayer room, and there are many vegetarian food options as well.

Nalcrest

Nalcrest, located in south-central Florida, is for those older adults who were postal workers in their professional lives. The community first opened in the 1960s, when postal workers were paid very little. Nalcrest gives any former postal workers an affordable place to retire. The rent there is only $520 per month.

These are some of the most unique places where you can retire today, so think about whether any of them appeal.

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