When it comes to redecorating the kitchen, it’s not surprising that we tend to play it safe. After all, the kitchen is usually the most-used room in the house. Since a full-on kitchen remodel is costly, it often makes sense to opt for a classic color scheme that you won’t tire of too quickly or that won’t become dated when the next trend emerges. That said, the kitchen is also a great place to...

The coldest weather of the year is upon us, and if you are like most Americans, you are looking for ways to keep your energy costs low. Following these simple tips will help you reduce energy consumption and lower your bill: Use a programmable thermostat. It will save you money because it can set the temperature to the most cost-effective levels during periods in which no one is home or when you’re...

Some homeowners decide to sell a house themselves, rather than getting help from a real estate agent. Buying a house that is listed as “for sale by owner” (FSBO) may have pros and cons. What Is a “For Sale by Owner” Listing?If a house is listed as “for sale by owner,” that means the homeowner is selling it without assistance from a real estate agent. Owners of FSBO properties generally want...

Stress. We all have it. Whether it’s work, your health, raising a family or sifting through bills, stress and anxiety will almost always follow you. But just as important as it is to deal with the things in life that cause stress, it is also vital that you help yourself by finding ways to promote relaxation for your mind and your body. Here are four simple ways you can reduce the daily stressors in your...

When living in a smaller space, rather than an entire home, cleaning tasks may seem easier to tackle. But after dusting, sweeping, vacuuming and mopping, it can quickly become a daunting task to tackle each and every room. Though a professional cleaner can come in handy, you may have some doubts or concerns about hiring someone to clean such a small space. Here are some pros and cons to hiring a cleaner...

Whether it’s a good time to buy a home or not, the first step you need to take on this journey is saving your money. A down payment will not only help to purchase a new home, but also help to determine what you can realistically afford. But starting with nothing isn’t really an option. Saving for a down payment is likely one of the hardest steps in the homebuying process, but it can be done. Here are...

Mold grows in places that are damp and dark, and bathrooms often become breeding grounds. Mold can look and smell bad, and can also cause serious respiratory problems if it goes unchecked.  If you struggle with this common problem, you may be able to solve it by taking some simple steps. To prevent mold, consistency is key. Moisture in the bathroom will always be an issue, but changing your habits...

If you’re spending more time at home, as well as accommodating more family members than usual under your roof, you may be seeing an increase in your utility bills. But don’t despair! There are several simple strategies you can implement to save on energy costs, even with a house full of people—just make sure everyone’s on board and follows suit! 1. Lower/raise your thermostat. Heating and...

A certain amount of stress from time to time is to be expected given the demands of work and family. However, the type of stress that is triggered by outside events beyond our control can be much more difficult to manage compared to everyday stressors. Here are a few strategies for staying calm when the world around you is anything but. Be more selective on social media. While social media sites...

Your outdoor living space is one of the most important parts of the home. From breakfasts on the terrace to afternoons spent soaking up the sun to evenings under the stars, it’s the perfect spot to be any time of day. That’s why picking out the right furniture requires careful consideration to ensure your outdoor living area is stylish, functional and of course, comfortable for the entire family....