7 Modern Design Trends to Try Right Now Designers are always finding new ways to explore and celebrate modern design. New trends are emerging every day and can provide excellent inspiration for home interiors and exteriors alike. If you’re interested in giving your interior design a fresh update, here are some of the biggest trends in modern design right now: Rattan Rattan has become popular for much more than the patio. Beyond rattan furniture, decorative items like rattan lamp shades are a huge trend in modern design. Try a rattan pendant light or end table to get started with this trend. Found Object Displays In terms of decor, found objects are trending in modern design right now. “Found objects” include items that are not meant to be art but still look interesting. Try displaying sculptural pieces made of stone, wood or metal on your shelves or console table. Combining Stripes Combining different sizes and colors of striped materials is a popular trend in modern interior design. Try mixing thick stripes with pinstripes and everything in between. The easiest place to start with this trend is with accessories like throw blankets, accent pillows or bed linens. Textured Furniture Smooth surfaces have definitely taken second place to highly textured furniture styles. Flat vertical slats are one example of this trend you can find on many styles of furniture, from tables to kitchen cabinets. Surface details like grooves and patterns are something to consider for this trend. Statement Vases For a trendy decor idea, try displaying a vase on its own rather than as an accessory to flowers. Statement vases can make a bold impact by adding color, pattern and texture to your displays and surfaces. Forgo the flowers and show off the vase itself as a piece of art. Pink Kitchens & Bathrooms Pale pink has become extremely popular both in kitchen and bathroom color schemes. Blush tones combine well with metallic brass and stainless steel for cabinets and fixtures and surfaces like concrete or wood also play nicely with various shades of pink. It’s an extremely versatile color that can work in a lot of established color schemes. Textured Walls Textured walls continue to be a rising trend in modern interior design. This trend encompasses a broad range of ideas, including hanging tapestries or rugs on the wall. Otherwise you could opt for texture wallpaper or 3D carved wood panels to add depth and interest to any room. These are just some of the hot modern trends that designers are using right now. If your home needs a style refresh, try one of these ideas for a trendy makeover perfect for any room.

3 Critical things to remember during a power outage Power outages happen for a variety of reasons like storms, grid issues, damage to components of the grid and many others. While a power outage may not be considered as directly dangerous as what may cause a power outage, there are still facets to keep in mind. Here are some tips for making it through a power outage: Medical devices & other electronics One of the biggest items to remember when, or even before, the power outage occurs is electronic necessities, such as monitors, medical devices or support electronics. You’ll want to ensure you have some source of backup power for such an occasion. For example, if an item has a battery - even if it’s rechargeable - keep a spare or two in case the power doesn’t return for a prolonged period of time. Likewise, power generating batteries with auxiliary plugs are another great option for keeping your mandatory electronic devices functioning. Food storage Food kept in a pantry or other dry areas should be fine during a power outage. In fact, keeping cold food cold is one of the bigger challenges during a period without electricity. To keep things from spoiling, keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed to help keep your food cold and at safe temperatures for preservation. If you have excess food that needs refrigeration, try using a heavily insulated cooler and copious amounts of ice to help keep everything from spoiling. Generators & carbon monoxide detectors Most appliances will not work during a power outage. However, it’s still important to have a working carbon monoxide detector, especially if using a generator. Anything that could give off exhaust could result in carbon monoxide poisoning. With working carbon monoxide detectors, you and your household can stay safe. Be sure that whichever carbon monoxide detector you choose has a backup battery in case something happens to the primary one. Sometimes, sudden power outages can be taxing, especially if you know what to do. In power outage situations, keep safety tips at the top of your mind, especially if it’s during a storm or other natural disaster. Be wary of exterior dangers like downed power lines. Keep medical equipment active with backup batteries and have a battery-powered radio handy.

What you need to record guitar music at home You need more than a microphone to record guitar, but that doesn't mean it has to be complicated. If you have a home recording studio, you can get started recording acoustic guitar or electric guitar with just a few extra pieces of equipment. Basic guitar recording setup Photos of professional recording studios can make them seem huge and impressive. However, it's possible to record your own music in the same quality at home without breaking the bank. The latest technological advancements allow the production of excellent recording equipment at very affordable prices - and in smaller sizes. Recording guitar only requires a few specific tools, most of which come in a wide range of price points and sizes to fit your home studio. Essential gear Here is a short list of the most important studio gear you'll need for recording: A digital audio interface. A ribbon, dynamic or condenser mic for electric guitars. A condenser microphone for acoustic guitars. A DAW (digital audio workstation). Guitar plugins. Studio monitors or studio headphones. Plugins for guitarists Did you know you don't even need a guitar amp to record music? Amp simulator plugins are a cost-effective and simple way to get the perfect guitar tone without an amp. Dozens of plugins are available depending on your choice of DAW, all with different features and price points. Alternatives to an audio interface If you don't want to use a DAW, you have alternatives that allow you to upload music recordings to your computer. Some options for alternatives include: USB mixers. Guitar amps. Virtual instruments. Plugging an electric guitar directly into the computer. These alternatives also come with a wide range of price points and feature differences, so you'll have to decide which method works best for your needs. Whether you want to record acoustic guitar or record electric guitar, this basic info will help you get started on your musical journey.

Residential projects requiring a build permit: What you need to know Before you make any major changes to your property, investigate what type of build permit you need. Even if you’re just remodeling your home, construction permits are required for most projects. Here is a basic guide to the types of major home remodeling projects requiring a permit: Demolition If you’re demolishing any outdoor or indoor structure, you’ll need a residential building permit. Any significant remodel involving demolition requires an interior remodeling permit and an inspection to ensure proper debris removal. Interior remodeling Major changes to the interior of your home require a remodeling permit. You don’t need a permit to paint, wallpaper or replace furniture. However, for projects like full bathroom or kitchen renovations involving plumbing and electrical systems, you will require a permit. Additions Are you thinking about adding space or extra rooms to your home? If so, a construction permit is required to make sure the work is done correctly and safely. Some common examples of such projects include building a guest suite or expanding the garage. Decks without a roof Building a deck requires a permit, especially if it’s off the ground. This type of permit ensures proper quality for safety reasons. Having a permit prevents you from being liable if a guest happens to injure themselves due to poor deck building practices. Roofing for decks or patios If you already have a deck or patio and want to build a roof over it, make sure to obtain a construction permit. This also includes any trellises or large pergolas. Permanent water features Adding a permanent pool, hot tub, spa or pond requires a specific building permit. These permits are required to prevent accidental issues with local water systems and the property itself. While the construction permit process might seem tedious, it’s important to obtain the necessary permissions before making significant changes to your home or property. Keep these projects in mind if you’re planning any major renovations.

Remodel services: What to expect If you’re planning a home remodel, services are available to assist you in planning the entire project. However, even with guidelines for what you’ll need, the process can seem overwhelming. Before you get started, here are some of the key things to consider when planning a major home improvement project: What is the goal of your home improvement project? Before you dive in to the details, consider the big picture. What is the main goal of your project? Do you want to add value to your home to make it more attractive to potential buyers? Or do you want to make changes specifically for you and your household to enjoy? While you can answer “yes” to both questions, it’s a good idea to think about your neighborhood before you get started. This can help you figure out which renovations will provide the most benefit. When it’s time to hire contractors Create a list of the tasks you can accomplish on your own, and another list with the tasks you need help with. For the tasks requiring outside help, research professionals in your area to find the best person to assist you. Investigate multiple contractors to compare rates and services offered. Ask them specific questions about the project timeline, how to handle unexpected costs and their liability insurance. The ideal contractor should be able to help you accomplish your home remodel goals while providing excellent customer service and quality work. Don’t forget to obtain the necessary permits You’ll need a permit for most home renovations, and leaving them until the last minute can have expensive and inconvenient consequences. Many contractors provide a service of obtaining permits on your behalf, but in some cases you’ll need to fill out and submit applications yourself. All permit applications require an inspection to make sure your home remodel meets structural and safety standards. If your project requires a permit, add this to your project schedule as soon as possible. This is another aspect of a house remodel which can cause delays, so the sooner you work out the paperwork, the better. The planning process for a home renovation can be exciting, but it can also be confusing. Luckily, there are professionals available to help. As long as you keep these basics in mind, you’ll be on your way to enjoying your newly remodeled home.

Multipurpose media room ideas: Something for everyone In the quest for entertainment optimization, many homeowners are turning to multipurpose media room ideas to add extra functionality. How can you design a perfect media room to fit the individual needs of everyone in the home? While it might seem complicated, there are some simple ways you can set up your media room to give it optimal flexibility and functionality. Here are some great media room ideas to get you started: Create multi-level lighting Multiple levels of lighting are a key component of all interior design, and especially important in a media room. While watching movies, TV and playing video games on a large flat screen television all require ambient lighting to reduce screen glare, other media room activities might need something different. For example, playing tabletop games with cards and other small pieces requires task lighting for extra visibility at any time of day or night. Accent lighting is also helpful for creating atmosphere and showing off your favorite media room decor like movie posters, figurines or collectables. Making sure you have easily adjustable lighting of various levels will keep your space flexible for all types of media enjoyment. Choose versatile furniture The best media rooms have comfortable but functional furniture. When creating a multipurpose media room, you also want your furniture to be easily configured to meet your needs. Sectional sofas are a smart alternative to movie theater seating, since they also allow for comfortable handheld or console gaming. Consider cushioned folding chairs for your tabletop setup, so you can make extra room or seat more players instantly. Providing plenty of surface space for food, drinks and media components also aids functionality and enjoyment. Have a corner side table or small coffee table available to every seat, so your entire household can benefit from the convenience. Having a dedicated media room or home theater room is a major goal for many homeowners. However, to provide the most flexibility and cater to your entire household’s entertainment needs, these ideas for multipurpose media rooms are sure to help you find the perfect balance.

5 Kitchen Trends to Avoid When Selling Your Home Unfortunately, some trends do not keep their appeal long-term. If you’re designing your kitchen based on popular past trends, you might find yourself stuck with a dated aesthetic years later. Sometimes, dated kitchen features can even work against you when selling your home. If you’re putting your house on the market and considering some kitchen updates, here are some good places to start: Granite Countertops Granite countertops have been a standard in kitchen design for a long time. However, today’s homebuyers tend to prefer other materials like marble or concrete. Butcher block or vinyl imitation wood are also great options if you want to replace your granite for something more up-to-date. Traditional Wood Cabinets Traditional style wooden cabinets are becoming less popular. One reason is how much space they can take up compared to more modern shelving solutions. Cherry-colored cabinetry, in particular, is a good trend to avoid, as it can seriously date your entire kitchen. Dark Colors Dark colors, both for walls and wood finishes, were all the rage for quite some time. These days, the trend is fading in favor of lighter, brighter color schemes for kitchens. Darker colors can make a space appear smaller and more cramped, which is never ideal in a kitchen. Lighten up your dark walls or wood finishes and create some extra space. DIY Backsplashes A kitchen backsplash is a popular place to show your creativity and test your DIY skills. However, they can also distract and send the wrong message to potential homebuyers. Consider replacing your self-installed tile or custom painted backsplash with something simple with universal appeal. Overly Ornate Details Ornate details are another thing that can date your kitchen and cause a distraction to potential buyers. Things like intricate trim designs, ornate handle pulls or overly decorative wood accents can make your kitchen look busy to those who prefer a simpler style. Try going for clean lines and classic shapes instead to make a better impression. Some trends are here to stay while others fade quickly. Some style choices you thought would last forever might be better replaced with something new. Keep these ideas in mind and consult a real estate professional or home stager to find the best way to update your kitchen for potential buyers.

Protect your home: Homeowners insurance tips Getting homeowners insurance can seem daunting. There are many insurance options with different coverages available, and you might be wondering which policy is best for you and your household. Don’t worry. The more you understand homeowners insurance, the easier the decision will be. What is homeowners insurance? Homeowners insurance provides financial protection to your home in the case of certain perils. This can include damages from hail, winds, lightning and more. What does homeowners insurance cover? Standard homeowners insurance financially covers up to 16 perils. A few of these perils are lighting strikes, fire, high winds and burglary. For example, your home may be damaged by strong winds due to a storm. Your policy would offer coverage after your deductible to repair damages to your home from the storm. Having homeowners insurance is essential, but may be a necessity depending on where you live. Some areas are prone to tropical storms. Others have yearly wildfires. Having homeowners insurance secures your home in the chance it’s damaged by these perils. Some perils such as flooding are not covered by standard insurance policies. You may need to purchase additional coverage if you live in areas prone to perils typically not covered. Additional ways to secure your home assets On top of having homeowners insurance, there are many additional ways to financially protect your home from perils: Dedicate a savings account for home emergencies. Install an alarm system to protect from possible home break-ins Secure and remove any items in your yard that could go flying during a storm. Create and maintain an inventory of major assets inside your home You work hard for your property. Keeping your assets safe is crucial. By protecting your space with homeowners insurance, taking time to examine your home's needs and investing in home protection products, you help to secure your space before peril can strike.

What to Look for in a New Neighborhood There is much more to buying a home than choosing the right features. The location of your new home is just as important, as it’s where you’ll be choosing to spend most of your time. It may be difficult to pick the right area or neighborhood when home searching, but there are some key things to search for. Here are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind when finding a new home location: Proximity to Services & Commerce If you want to be close to the action—and essential services like grocery—factor the distance from your potential home into your decision. Is a car required to get to amenities and services or are there places you can walk or bike to? Is there public transportation between your home and commerce centers? These are solid questions to ask when evaluating a potential new home location. Many homeowners prioritize proximity to recreation, dining, grocery and shopping in their decisions, but the opposite may also be true. Maybe you want to be far away from the hustle and bustle of urban life and being next to a major shopping center is unappealing. Regardless of your preference, this is an important factor to consider. School Districts If you have children in your household or are planning to have them in the future, you should also consider school information in your decision. Research what school districts are in your potential new home’s area and whether it’s possible to transfer between them if desired. Most home seekers prioritize access to the best possible opportunities for education. This can include pre-schools, elementary schools, middle and high schools. It may also include community colleges for adult education opportunities. Keep school information in mind when deciding on your next home’s location. There is a lot that goes in to evaluating a new living location. These are just two major things to look for and keep in mind during your search. The more you can find out about an area, the more confident you’ll be in your decision.

Helpful things to know before purchasing an equestrian property All over the country, farms can be found housing a total of millions of horses. If you’re interested in owning a horse farm, knowing some of the basics can help you decide if moving forward with a land purchase to house horses is the right step for you. Is owning a horse farm profitable? Investors usually see a steady flow of income when they invest in horse properties, as equestrian farms usually have consistent interest surrounding them. Between renting stalls out to horse owners, offering classes, or charging visitors to view the animals for the day - there are many ways for a horse farm to be profitable. What type of land is best for horses? As horses are large animals, they need plenty of space to thrive. It’s best if the land has plenty of grass for them to graze on. It’s vital for the property and land to have good water drainage, so the land doesn’t become too muddy. How many horses can you put on 5 acres? It’s recommended to have at least two acres of land per horse. Five acres of land may be ideal for 2 horses; however, if you’re planning to grow your equestrian farm, you may want to consider purchasing a larger amount of land. By consulting your county rules, you can see land requirements and establish if there’s a limit on how many horses you may have. Owning an equestrian property is a large commitment, however by doing your research and collaborating with a real estate agent, you can start the journey to owning a horse farm.

A beginners guide to understanding the mortgage constant If you intend to apply for a commercial real estate loan, a great term to know is mortgage constant. A mortgage constant is the percentage you pay annually in comparison to the total loan amount. How to calculate the mortgage constant? To calculate this amount, you'd add the monthly payments for a single year and divide the remaining by the total amount of the mortgage loan. For example, you may have a $500,000 mortgage and pay $2,000 a month at a 4 percent interest rate. $2,000 x 12 = $24,000 Mortgage constant: 4.8 percent = ($24,000 / $500,000) Mortgage constant versus capitalization rate The cap rate (capitalization rate) is used to determine the ratio of the net operating income (NOI) in comparison to the original purchase price, which can demonstrate the rate of return. If the constant rate is higher than the cap rate, this indicates there may be a negative return on investment, but if the cap rate is higher, there will be a positive return on investment. Benefits & risks of using the mortgage constant The benefit of using the mortgage constant is it provides a quick way to assess the value of a property you plan to invest in and how profitable it can be. On the downside, using a mortgage constant only provides a fixed viewpoint of the investment without taking into consideration when interest payments are made. For this reason, it’s best to use the mortgage constant as one of many ways to examine the potential of an investment. If you’re interested in finding out a mortgage constant for a property, there are free tools found online which can help you make the calculations on your investment journey.

Affordable House Flipping: 3 Ways to Fund Your Project Like any real estate transaction, flipping a home involves a lot of separate costs. While flipping a house can have an excellent return on investment, it can also cost quite a bit to get the process started. However, there are ways to flip houses with very little upfront cash. Here are the best ways to flip on a tight budget: Private Lenders Private loans come with a variety of advantages because they don’t work with banks or government institutions. This means that a private lender can give you your money much quicker and without the same regulatory obstacles as traditional lenders. However, they also make their own rules, which can benefit you or hinder you. As long as you’re clear about any contract details and expectations, they can be a good option for funding a flip. Hard Money Lenders Hard money lenders work with entities that specialize in lending money but offer shorter term loans than traditional sources. Hard money loans are excellent options for flipping houses because they allow for flexibility in timelines. However, like private lenders, hard money lenders have their own unique rules and guidelines, so shopping around for the best fit is ideal. Crowdfunding Crowdfunding is a more free-form type of investment strategy involving multiple sources. Each source would contribute a part of the total loan amount. There are many sites and companies dedicated to helping you set up your own crowdfunding initiative and when paired with promotion and marketing strategies, it can be an extremely convenient way to raise the funds for a flip. These are just a few ways to get the funding you need while sticking to a small budget. All offer a great opportunity for financing your flipping project with a low initial investment up front. Research and budget carefully to find the best fit for your situation.

What you'll need to know about escrow accounts If you’re new to the homebuying process, you may be introduced to a plethora of new terms you’ll need to know. Escrow accounts are no doubt on the list. Having an escrow account is often required by mortgage lenders, so getting a better understanding of what they are and how they work can help ease you into the process. Escrow account basics So, what exactly is an escrow account, and what is it used for? Escrow accounts are set up during the homebuying process and act as a neutral third party to hold important contracts, earnest money and other important information related to the home sell. After the purchase of a home, your lender can use your escrow account to manage insurance premiums and property taxes and insurance. Property tax payments Every year when your tax office issues property tax bills, your lender uses money collected in your escrow account to pay off the taxes. If there isn’t enough money in your escrow account, they’ll reach out to you to make up the difference. If the amount owed is less than what’s in your escrow account, your lender can credit you for the next tax year. How do I know when escrow is required? As standard practice, an escrow account is required if your home down payment is less than 20 percent of the total purchase price. Some loan types such as FHA loans also require an escrow account. In some cases, you can cancel an existing escrow by providing proof of regular and on time home payments. Escrow accounts may seem a bit confusing at first, so take your time as you learn more about them and consider speaking with an escrow officer for assistance if need be.

3 Easy Ways to Hide Your Radiator Does your home have a wall radiator you wish you could hide? While immobile, radiators can be hidden or disguised in plenty of creative ways. If you're looking for smart and safe ways to make your radiator less of an eyesore, here are some ideas to try. Upcycled Iron A clever way to hide your radiator while also upcycling old materials is to use iron grating or scrollwork. You can use a panel from a decorative iron fence, a headboard or a fireplace cover for this project. The iron will withstand heat and allow it to pass through, keeping the space safe and efficient. Just make sure to treat the metal with a heat-resistant treatment for rust before use. False Cabinets Turn your radiator into a stylish faux cabinet with some simple construction. You can take the back paneling off an existing cabinet and attach it to the wall over the radiator. Choose any design style to fit your tastes, from romantic farmhouse to sleek mid-century modern. For safety, it's important to replace the door inserts on the front of the cabinet with a material that will let the heat out and is heat-resistant. Useful Surfaces If your radiator is low enough to the ground, you can disguise it while also creating some extra seating. One way is to simply move an existing bench so that it sits a few inches above the radiator. While it will still be visible, depending on the style, the radiator will be secondary to the convenient bench seating. If your radiators are too tall to disguise comfortably with a bench, you can use the same approach with a narrow console table or floating shelves. Once you create usable space above the radiator, you won't even notice it's there. There are many ways to make your home's utility features more aesthetically pleasing. Try these tips if you're thinking of hiding or disguising your wall radiators.

Monthly maintenance tasks for your home From your plumbing and HVAC system to home safety devices, there are several items in your home that can break down or malfunction. Doing some maintenance tasks each month can help reduce the risk of needing repairs or having to replace equipment. Plan on performing the following maintenance tasks in your home monthly: Replace HVAC filters Your HVAC filters end up coated in dust and debris, which can affect your HVAC system's efficiency and your air quality. Check your HVAC filters every month to see if it's time to replace them. If your filters are dirty or clogged, replacing them with new ones helps improve your air quality and causes less wear and tear on your HVAC system. Keep in mind you might only need to replace your filters every few months, but at least check them each month. Check for leaks Leaks can lead to serious and costly water damage. Even smaller leaks can cause problems, such as running up your water bill. Although some leaks are easy to see, others can happen in hidden areas, such as inside walls. Check for signs of leaks in your home every month, such as water spots on ceilings and walls and puddles of water near plumbing fixtures and appliances. Have leaks fixed immediately to prevent water damage from occurring. Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors Your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are there to keep you safe, so make sure they're in good working condition. Test these home safety devices each month to ensure they work properly. If they're not working right, you might need to dust them off or replace the batteries. Seal bathroom gaps Cracks or openings around your tub or shower can lead to leaks inside your walls or floors. Search for gaps around bathroom fixtures every month, and seal them up with caulking to prevent leaks. Touch up the grout between bathroom floor tiles or shower tiles each month as needed, which helps reduce the risk of mildew and mold growth. Check your home exterior Walk around the exterior of your home once a month to search for issues that need to be addressed, such as cracks or gaps in the foundation. Also check for areas of standing water that could indicate a drainage problem on your property.

Quick ways to create a rustic and modern living room A living room with a modern rustic design is one with sleek lines and low profiles of modern design and combines comforting textures of rustic design. In a living room, modern rustic may remind you of a more defined version of eclectic. We'll give you some easy tips to give the space a cozy vibe without compromising on style. Starting from scratch Here are a few key things to keep in mind before you select new pieces for the room or start rearranging furniture: The room: If the room was stripped of everything in it, would it be more modern or more rustic? Rustic spaces are full of natural materials like wood and stone, while modern spaces are typically bright and airy. Home: Do you want the modern design of the living room to stand out from the other rooms in the home or will you want it to seamlessly blend as part of a cohesive approach? Layout: Modern rustic living rooms are designed for communication. Consider how changing the configuration will change the functionality of the room. For instance, will you need to move the sofa so everyone can easily move about and get comfortable while enjoying a cup of coffee together? These basic questions can make it easier to determine how much needs to change in the room, and if these changes can serve as a starting point for any other design changes you might make the in the rest of the home. Decide how you'll incorporate accent pieces Some people will take a modern design room and fill it with rustic furniture or vice versa. More often, you'll see people select one or two statement pieces in a single design, then add contrasting elements. For instance, you can surround a stone fireplace and a rustic wooden coffee table with hand-blown glass vases on either side. Or you can furnish the room with an overstuffed sofa and pair it with a modern leather armchair. Some people may choose all rustic materials and then swap out the traditional light fixtures for industrial ones. If you're choosing modern lighting, colors like matte black and brass tend to go well with rustic designs. Don't be afraid to experiment When you highlight the best of two amazing design styles, you have to be willing to test out many different pieces and textures. Anything from reclaimed wood to microfiber can be an option to give the living room more contrast. Try layering pillows, art, blankets and rugs in different styles to give the living room more personality and panache.

Virtual Reality in Real Estate: 3 Key Benefits More real estate professionals are embracing virtual reality to improve their business in the modern world. With the myriad tools and platforms available, it’s becoming more common for agents and brokers to use VR technology in their regular business practices. Here are some of the key ways virtual reality can benefit real estate today: Save Time By adding VR technology into the home buying or selling process, you might save hours of time. Without needing to travel in between multiple locations, potential buyers can visit more open houses than ever before. Agents can do private showings at the last minute without needing to adjust their busy schedules to handle logistics. VR conferencing during negotiation and other parts of the transaction can also save significant amounts of time and effort, leading to a more efficient process. Improve Accuracy VR technology can communicate an incredible amount of detail and accuracy over any distance. For example, a potential buyer can tour a completely customized property with a builder before deciding. They can view different options in the context of the rest of the home design rather than via online guides or printed books of samples. Instead of touring a model unit that might differ completely from the result, clients can use VR to get the most accurate idea of the property before they buy. Stay Safe With increased awareness and concern for personal health and safety, VR is making it possible for real estate professionals to continue business as usual. Agents and clients no longer have to meet in person to tour homes or discuss strategies. Potential buyers don’t have to worry about traveling and interacting with people in situations where safe social distancing isn’t possible. With virtual reality, the real estate industry has weathered the many changes in our daily lives by providing alternatives to travel and personal contact. VR technology is getting better and better with time. As technology improves, so will the ways in which real estate professionals and clients can use it to make every home buying and selling experience more efficient and safe.

The Most Common Types of Kitchen Island Kitchen islands have been popular in modern homes for decades. The appeal of the open-concept kitchen creates a need for more counter space while still keeping an open and inviting feel. There are many types of kitchen islands and different ways to implement them in your own space. If you’re thinking of adding a kitchen island as part of a remodel or new home build, here are the basic types to know: Rolling Cart Island A rolling cart island is a convenient and versatile way to add more usable space and storage to your kitchen. Rolling carts are small and make for great prep or serving areas. The wheels make them easy to move to any part of the kitchen if needed, so in smaller kitchens, many opt for keeping them against a wall when not in use. Rolling carts can come in a variety of styles with features like open shelving, drawers, towel hangers, butcher-block counters and more. Non-Portable Island Similar in size to a rolling cart, a small, non-portable kitchen island provides the same prep space and functionality as a permanent fixture in the kitchen. They provide enough room for basic tasks and storage but often come with flip-up table leaves to increase surface area. These look much more like built-in kitchen islands than carts but are similarly inexpensive and don’t take up a lot of space. Island Table You can use a table as a kitchen island if you have the room. Many homeowners opt for tall, narrow tables similar to a breakfast bar rather than square or round tables. Island tables are perfect for food prep, serving meals or setting up a party buffet. Depending on the type of table you use, there may or may not be built-in storage, so keep that in mind when making your decision. Cabinet With Countertop Some kitchen islands consist of a couple of base cabinets and a piece of countertop. These islands use the same cabinets and countertops as the rest of your kitchen and make for a cohesive look. The cabinets may have doors, drawers or a mixture of both, while providing a sizable amount of storage. Because you must affix this type of island to the floor, it is considered officially “permanent” according to electrical codes. Fully Integrated Island Fully integrated kitchen islands have plumbing and electricity built in. Some have a second sink in addition to the main kitchen sink. Many of these islands also include a gas or electric range. These islands are expensive and difficult to install because they require a lot of extra work to connect the water and electrical power. However, they are highly functional and add great value to a home. These are just the basic kitchen islands you’ll see available through builders and home improvement resources. Consider the options carefully to find out which is best for your kitchen.

Restoring & remodeling: Old house basics When it comes to remodeling, old house projects number among the most common. Increasing energy efficiency, replacing hazardous materials and other benefits come from renovating older properties, but it can be difficult to know which projects are best. How do you decide which changes to make to an old house? Here are some of the factors you can consider: Assessing an old house Before deciding whether to buy, always consult a surveyor before signing a contract. Old homes are often associated with potentially dangerous problems, such as deterioration of structures, asbestos and severe mold. The surveying company will produce a detailed report outlining these concerns and sketch any necessary repair work. This report will help you understand the potential challenges and also help you budget for repairs. Home renovation projects: structural changes It is possible to transform an existing house by eliminating walls and by converting redundant or unused square footage such as basements or lofts. Depending on the property and the budget, you can even convert a garage into a bedroom or office space. It's best to find an architect or contractor who specializes in refurbishing and fixing old homes. To restore period features and keep the house's original charm, you'll need an expert with all the best knowledge of building materials and techniques. Increase efficiency, not size Many old houses have outdated floor plans and inefficient use of space. One of the best things you can do when remodeling an older home is to adjust the layout to better suit your needs - or the needs of the modern housing market. Making energy-efficient decisions is also a recommended strategy. Replacing old windows with modern alternatives will help keep the home efficient and reduce energy bills. You can still retain the lovable period features of the home while making it more comfortable and functional for modern life. Are you thinking of buying and remodeling an old home? Keep these factors in mind when considering your options for bringing a dated property into the present.

3 Things To Consider About Exterior Door Energy Efficiency When climate-controlled air escapes or gaps allow non-climate-controlled air inside, heating and cooling system are forced to work overtime. Although frugal people often calculate the cost benefits of replacement windows to reduce energy loss, entry and secondary doors also have a significant effect. A poorly insulated door with even small gaps around the casing can create ongoing drafts. If you are considering replacing an outdated or inefficient door, these are things to consider. 1: Choose an energy-efficient material Fiberglass doors are widely considered the most energy-efficient because they are poor heat conductors. Materials that absorb energy such as heat and cold transfer it from the outdoors through your door. For example, when the temperatures outside are below freezing, the door radiates those temperatures into the home. This process might seem like a nominal cost driver, but energy efficiency is about tightening heat and cold losses. Following fiberglass, vinyl, steel and wood provide energy efficiency in descending order. 2: Glass panes can be energy efficient Although glass conducts heat and cold easily, this facet does not necessarily mean home, and commercial building owners should avoid them. The ability to see outside and the infusion of natural light into the space also provide value. Just like windows, doors panes offer varying degrees of energy efficiency. When selecting a product that serves your needs, conduct some due diligence about glass ratings. 3: Material fluctuations cause energy loss One of the reasons industry professionals typically rank fiberglass, vinyl, and steel ahead of wooden doors stems from expansion and contraction. Wood suffers swelling and tightening far more than the other materials, which means cold weather generally causes the door to shrink and allows increased drafts to leak in. Wooden doors enjoy natural beauty, but the heat loss can be significant. When choosing the best door for your needs, energy efficiency ranks among many factors. A sound decision also weighs appearance, durability, security, cost and other items. The right door helps reduce utility bills and makes homeowners feel good in many ways.

Mortgage & student loan payments: What homebuyers should know It's common for homeowners to have both mortgage and student loan payments simultaneously. But how does student debt affect your chances of getting a mortgage in the first place? While lenders consider all debt obligations in loan approval, you can still buy a home while paying student loans. Do mortgage lenders care about student loans? Lenders consider your current financial obligations, including any outstanding loan balance, in your financial statement. Your debt to income ratio, or DTI, measures your ability to make regular loan payments, so if your student loan payments skew your DTI too much, it could be a red flag to lenders. Can I still get a mortgage? While mortgage lenders consider your debt-to-income ratio for mortgage approval, you don't have to be completely debt free to get a mortgage. So, you can have student loan debt and still get a mortgage! Should I pay down my loans before buying a house? Student loan debt won't keep you from mortgage approval, but it can make it harder to qualify. If you have reliable income and a good payment history, it's not necessary to pay off your existing debt before buying a house. Just remember to consider the monthly student loan payments and your homeowner costs. Multiple loan payments add up quickly. So, it’s harder to buy a house as a student loan borrower? It's not necessarily harder to buy a house as student loan borrowers. But regular student loan payments with regular mortgage payments can be expensive, so be careful to stay on top of your payments. Student loan payment assistance programs may help with federal student loans, such as income-driven repayment plans. So explore all your options if you run into a hardship.

Flipping a House: How Much Funding Do You Need? For many, flipping homes is lucrative. However, there are many costs associated with flipping a property, and it’s important to budget carefully for every detail. Here are the major costs to consider when determining how much funding you’ll need for a flip: Down Payments Just like buying a move-in ready house, buying a house you intend to flip will require a down payment. Depending on the terms of your financing and the total price of the home, the down payment will be your largest expense to plan for. Traditional mortgages call for about a 3% minimum for a down payment, but this amount can be much higher with other funding sources. Financing Costs Most financing options will include interest. Even though they might be very low percentage rates, they are a regular cost to factor into your budget. While regular mortgages may have low rates right now, the type of loans most commonly given to house flippers can have interest rates as high as 10%. Homeowners Insurance Even though you might only own the house for a short time, you’ll have to pay homeowner’s insurance. Most lenders require proof of a homeowner’s insurance policy as a qualification for approval, especially if the house is being used as collateral. Taxes Don’t forget about adding relevant taxes to your budget. The main ones to plan for are property and transfer taxes. No matter how long you own the property, you’ll be responsible for these taxes and should set aside adequate funding for the payments. Renovations The cost of renovations will probably be your second largest expense to budget for. Unfortunately, this can be the hardest part to estimate. To get the best viable idea of how much money you’ll need to set aside for renovations, consult a contractor, home inspector or both to create an estimate.

A beginner's guide to Italianate architecture A fanciful and ornate category of Victorian design, Italianate architecture has made its inspirational mark on buildings of all kinds. Italianate style employs picturesque elements inspired by the architecture of the Italian Renaissance, featuring heavy emphasis on decorative accents and sky-high facades. What other style elements make Italianate architecture captivating and unique? Here is a guide to style’s key characteristics: Tall buildings One of the most immediately recognizable elements of Italianate architecture is the prevalence of tall, narrow designs. Italianate buildings are typically between two and four stories tall, featuring narrow windows to enhance the vertically oriented facade. Italianate buildings typically have a symmetrical, rectangular shape, but feature exciting architectural accents like cupolas and towers to add interest to the design. Dramatic entryways Another recognizable feature of Italianate architecture is the use of columns and decorative brackets in building entryways. Classical round or square columns often flank single or double door entrances situated on raised porches with decorative woodwork. The tall, narrow windows dressing the building’s facade further emphasize the entryway by framing the door. Overhanging eaves Deep cornices and overhanging eaves are another dramatic and striking feature found in Italianate style buildings. The wide eaves bring contrast to the tall, narrow building designs by adding extra dimension and calling back to the decorative elements of picturesque Renaissance-era Italian villas. Fanciful landscaping While much of Italianate architecture is found in cities, landscaping is an important part of the design style when space permits. Even in homes without yard space, you’ll often find hedges trimmed into a variety of geometric shapes to add more character to the home’s facade. In country houses and properties with ample outdoor space, Italianate landscaping takes the picturesque to a new level by including purely decorative accents like grottoes, follies and reflecting pools. Pathways made of gravel direct visitors to the dramatic entrance, while the other fanciful features add aesthetic interest and wonder. Italianate style can be difficult to separate from other Victorian-era architectural movements. However, like Gothic revival or Greek revival architecture, certain major elements are key to recognizing this prominent style across multiple continents.

Home insurance inspections: What you should know What’s the difference between a home insurance inspection and a standard home inspection? While homeowners might be familiar with the idea of home inspections in general, it’s crucial to know how an insurance inspection can differ. Here is a basic guide comparing home insurance inspections and standard inspections: Who requires it? Home insurance inspections are required and carried out by the insurance company providing the homeowners insurance policy. Standard inspections, by contrast, are required by mortgage lenders during the homebuying process. Lenders might not require homeowners insurance inspections, but you do need proof of insurance for final mortgage approval. How is it used? Insurance companies use inspections to determine the amount of risk associated with the client’s home. The inspectors examine the property to find potential liability issues associated with its condition or features. They can also use the inspection results to create an accurate valuation of the home to determine the correct amount of insurance coverage to recommend. Standard inspections are more broadly used, but are most often used to influence and educate a homebuying decision. A standard inspection reports on the quality and condition of the home in many of the same ways. However, these inspections are more concerned with informing the potential buyer of any maintenance issues they otherwise wouldn’t discover until after moving in. Who pays for it? Home insurance inspections are typically free to the homeowner. The insurance provider pays the bill for the inspection itself, but the overall cost may be wrapped into the policy itself. In the homebuying process, the buyer pays for the home inspection. In some cases, the seller might offer to pay for the inspection as part of a negotiation. Both of these types of home inspection are something every homeowner is likely to deal with over the life of the property. The more you know about the differences, the more confident you’ll be in discussing the options with your provider.

Knowing the best times to sell a house While real estate never rests, it's important to know the best times to sell a house. Real estate agents and brokers are constantly watching market trends and metrics like median sales price throughout the year to time their sales perfectly. Seasonal factors can have a significant effect, as do other local and economic conditions. So, how do you know the best time to sell? Here are some tips for timing a home sale: How much difference can a well-timed sale make? Timing your home sale can make a difference of up to 10% in total sale price. This means choosing the right time can help you get a higher asking price, while slower months might force you to choose lower offers. The best time to sell a house in your market The best seasons for selling can vary by location, but typically the spring and summer months are the best for house selling. It's most common to put your home on the real estate market during June or July. Worst times to sell There are multiple factors that can determine the "worst" time to sell. Often, the weather has a significant impact. Even in regions with mild winters, buyers are less likely to actively home search in colder seasons. Another factor is competition and activity in your local market. While this can change every year, working with a real estate agent to track and predict market trends will help you sell even if conditions aren't perfect. Selling during winter months Winter, especially during the holiday season, is a very slow time to sell homes. Cold weather and holiday travel keep potential buyers busy. However, if somebody is considering buying a home in the upcoming spring, they may be browsing listings online from the warmth of their own home. This is one scenario when a "coming soon" listing can give you a competitive edge. Timing home sales carefully can mean a quicker sale and a higher price, especially if you work with a real estate professional. While the world of real estate is constantly moving and changing, you can keep these guidelines in mind for finding the best time to sell.

Painting: How to Choose the Perfect Paint Color You have a lot of freedom in painting the rooms inside your home, but that doesn't make it easy to pick a color. Whether you are the type of person who lives peacefully among neutral tones or you have a vibrant personality that requires bold colors, you will want to use these tips to help you choose the right paint color for each room in your house. Decide on a Color Scheme for Your Room Before you try to choose the color for the walls of the room, you will want to narrow down your color scheme. You can do this by identifying three or four colors that you want to use throughout the room. You can use art work, throw pillows or existing furniture for color scheme inspirations. Once you have decided on the color scheme, you can narrow down which color you want to consider for the walls. Evaluate What Will Stay and What Will Go If you are renovating the entire room, narrow down what will stay in the room and what you are going to donate, sell or give to family members and friends. When you know what is going to be kept in the room, it will be easier to decide which paint color will work best. Consider How the Colors Will Change the Atmosphere Within the Room Remember that the colors on the wall can affect your perception of the size of the room and could even change how you feel when you are inside it. Light pastel colors create an open and peaceful atmosphere. Deep colors may create an intimate or dramatic mood. Bright and bold colors may make you feel happy, fun-filled and inspired. Don't Forget About the Spaces Surrounding the Room If you are painting a room that connects to other rooms or that is part of an open concept design, consider the spaces that surround it before you make your final color selection. You will want this room to flow into the next one without being too oppositional or distracting. When you take the time you need to decide on the perfect paint color for your home, you are guaranteed to love the result. The paint color that you choose will have a significant impact on how you feel when you are inside room, so it's important to give this decision the time and energy that it deserves.

Considering Your Finances: Is Home Ownership the Best Choice? Whether you’re planning on buying investment property or a new home, there are financial factors to consider. Knowing the details of your financial situation will help you make the best decision and help avoid unnecessary stress. If you’re trying to decide between renting and buying, here are some of the main financial things to go over: Savings Most financial experts advise you to save up to 6 months of emergency savings before you buy a home. Emergency savings are always a good idea to have, but when you’re considering purchasing a home, it becomes especially important. Before making a major investment, make sure you have the means to stay afloat in case something goes wrong. Down Payments It’s possible to purchase a home with a tiny down payment, but even the lower percentages are thousands of dollars. The bigger the down payment, the less money you owe to your lender. For this reason, many potential homebuyers opt for a larger down payment both to save on accrued interest and private mortgage insurance. Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) Most lenders will consider your debt-to-income ratio as part of your qualification for a loan. Luckily, this ratio is simple to calculate yourself. To find your own DTI, divide your monthly expenses—including loan and credit card payments—by your monthly gross income. This will give you a good idea of how you stack up compared to lender requirements. Credit Score Higher credit scores typically mean better chances of being approved for a lower interest rate on a mortgage. Your credit score comprises many financial factors. You can improve it by lowering your credit usage and paying your bills on time. While it might not seem important, even a percentage point matters for getting a good interest rate. The financial part of home ownership can be overwhelming, but as long as you know the important metrics, you will make the best decision for your own situation. Keep these financials in mind to make the best choice.

Homeowners insurance: A guide to weather damage coverage Owning a home can be a great investment. Making sure this investment is secure is essential. Purchasing homeowners insurance can financially cover your home in the event perils occur. So, what are some of the perils you can expect to be covered under your homeowners insurance? Severe wind damage It is common for homeowners insurance to cover wind damage. This can include wind from large storms, tornadoes and additional natural disasters. However, some policies will limit or exclude certain types of wind damages, such as roof repair. Hail damage If your region has frequent hail storms, homeowners insurance may have different policies regarding damages from these storms. For example, some may only offer limited or no coverage at all for cosmetic damages from hail. Lightning strike damage Lightning strikes are a standard peril covered under homeowners insurance policies. If your home is damaged from a lightning strike, dwelling coverage will help pay for repairing the structure of the home. Consider adding flood Insurance Flood insurance is not typically covered in homeowners insurance. You may live in an area prone to flooding, such as by a river or the ocean. You may have to purchase additional flood insurance with your standard homeowners insurance. Personal property coverage would cover damages to your personal belongings. Sewer backups caused by rain may not be completely covered Standard homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover sewer backup damages. Much like flood insurance, water backup insurance must be purchased separately. This coverage may be best for homes with a basement. Sewer damage can be extensive and costly. Sewer backup coverage is a great way to protect your home before an accident happens. We can’t control the weather, but we can protect our home in the case of weather damage. Investing in homeowners insurance can financially secure your hard-earned assets.