Category: Tips

21 April, 2021
By Adm_Mls

5 Inspiring Home Design and Remodeling Trends for 2021

We’ve all spent a lot more time at home over the past year. And for many of us, our homes have become our office, our classroom, our gym—and most importantly, our safe haven during times of uncertainty. So in 2021, it’s no surprise to see that designers are emphasizing soothing color palettes, cozy character, and quiet retreats.

To help inspire your design projects this year, we’ve rounded up five of the hottest home trends. If you plan to buy, list, or renovate your property in the next few months, give us a call. We can help you realize your vision and maximize the impact of your investment.

1. UPLIFTING COLORS

Colors are gravitating toward warm and happy shades that convey a sense of coziness, comfort, and wellbeing. This year’s palettes draw from earthy hues, warm neutrals, and soothing blues and greens.

While white and gray are still safe options, expect to see alternative neutrals become increasingly popular choices for walls, cabinets, and furnishings in 2021. For a fresh and sophisticated look, try one of these 2021 paint colors of the year:

  • Aegean Teal (coastal blue) by Benjamin Moore
  • Urbane Bronze (brownish-gray) by Sherwin-Williams
  • Soft Candlelight (muted yellow) by Valspar

2. CURATED COLLECTIONS

After a decade of minimalism, there’s been a shift towards highly-decorative and personalized interiors that incorporate more color, texture, and character. Clearly-defined styles are being replaced by a curated look, with furnishings, fixtures, and accessories that appear to have been collected over time.

This trend has extended to the kitchen, where the all-white fad is fading in popularity. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, consider mixing in other neutrals—like gray, black, and light wood—for a more custom, pieced-together feel.

3. REIMAGINED LIVING SPACES

The pandemic forced many of us to rethink our home design. From multipurpose rooms to converted office/closets, we’ve had to find creative ways to manage virtual meetings and school. And designers expect these changes to impact the way we live and work for years to come.

Some home builders are predicting the end of open-concept floor plans as we know them. Instead, buyers want cozier spaces with more separation and privacy. Cue the addition of alcoves, pocket doors, and sliding partitions that enable homeowners to section off rooms as needed.

4. STAYCATION-WORTHY RETREATS

With travel options limited right now, more homeowners are turning their vacation budgets into staycation budgets. Essentially, recreate the resort experience at home—and enjoy it 365 days a year.

To give your bedroom that “boutique hotel” look, start with a large, upholstered headboard in a rich color or pattern. Layer on organic linen bedding and a chunky wool throw, then add a pair of matching bedside wall lights. In your bathroom, try a curbless step-in shower and freestanding tub for a modern and spacious feel.

5. OUTDOOR UPGRADES

From exercise to gardening to safer options for entertaining, the pandemic has led homeowners to utilize their outdoor spaces more than ever. In fact, backyard swimming pool sales skyrocketed in 2020.But a new pool isn’t the only way to elevate your outdoor area this year.

Pergolas are a relatively quick and affordable option to add shade and ambiance to your backyard. Another hot trend? Landscapers are reporting an increase in front yard enhancements, including porch additions and expanded seating options. These “social front yards” enable neighbors to stay connected while observing social-distancing guidelines.

DESIGNED TO SELL

Want to find out how upgrades could impact the value of your home? We can share our insights and offer tips on how to maximize the return on your investment. Contact us to schedule a free consultation!

1 December, 2020
By Adm_Mls

10 Ways to Give Back to Our Local Community This Holiday Season

This year has demonstrated, perhaps more than ever, the importance of our family, friends, neighbors, and community. And with the holidays right around the corner, December offers the perfect opportunity to give back to the place we call home.

Let these 10 ways, both big and small, inspire you to do good in your town.

GIVE BACK NEAR HOME

1. Attract local wildlife. By making your neighborhood more wildlife friendly, you’re helping to create a balanced and healthy ecosystem. Plus, many of the animals you can attract help with pest control and pollination. Use native plants in your landscaping to provide food and shelter for birds, bees, and butterflies.

2. Clean up our community. To help beautify the area, pick up trash in your neighborhood, at a local park, or elsewhere in our community. Clean your home’s driveway and sidewalks, where water runoff can carry debris into the local sewer system.

3. Organize or join a neighborhood watch. According to a recent report, neighborhoods with Neighborhood Crime Watch programs experience roughly 16 percent less crime. Keeping an eye out for each other instills a sense of safety and security in your neighborhood, so consider joining or launching a neighborhood watch program in your area.

HELP OUT LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS

4. Boost your civic engagement. Get more involved as a citizen to make a positive difference in our community. Sign a petition to make needed community changes. Attend community meetings to understand (and have a voice in) local issues.

5. Support local businesses. Because the pandemic has negatively impacted many businesses, help keep money in our community’s economy by shopping local. Look for unique gifts from the small businesses that dot our community. Purchase tickets to attend live-streamed holiday concerts and shows.

6. Donate to local charities. Nonprofits could always use your financial support, so consider making a monetary donation to help them carry out their mission. Then think beyond just donating dollars. Donate new or used books to our community library. Pick out toys to give to a charity that caters to families.

Care for your neighbors

7. Organize a holiday food drive. This year, in particular, people are struggling to pay their bills and put food on the table. Round up a few friends or coworkers to collect groceries to donate. Partner with a local food bank, soup kitchen, nonprofit, or community organization that feeds people in need.

8. Adopt a family or an individual. The holidays can be a financial struggle for some families. Make a difference by “adopting” a family (or even just one child) to help make their holiday special. You can help them buy decorations, presents for their children, or food for a holiday meal.

9. Volunteer. Depending on your schedule and your preferences, you might be able to volunteer in-person or from home, whether it’s a one-time effort or ongoing project. Tap into a skill you already have (like creating videos) or learn a new skill (like fundraising) to benefit your cause of choice.

10. Perform random acts of kindness. You can make a big difference one small act at a time. Rake leaves for an elderly neighbor. Thank your child’s teacher for all their hard work this year.

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU?

As real estate experts in our local community, we’re tuned into the unique needs of the place we all call home. Reach out to us today to discuss more ways to make a positive impact in our community—this holiday season and beyond. And we want to make sure you’re taken care of, too. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home now or in the near future, let us help you!