Written by Sam Shalom

When it comes to selling your home for the best possible price, how you present the space matters.

To make the best impression you can on potential buyers, you may need to invest a little time and cash into updating a few key areas with big selling power, such as your kitchen.

To help you do this effectively without eating into your profit margins, we’re serving up a platter of budget-friendly kitchen updates – helping you to maximize your kitchen’s aesthetic appeal without having to spend a small fortune.

Banish unwanted clutter

The first step on your budget kitchen update journey is to banish any unwanted clutter from countertops and open shelving.

In order to boost your kitchen’s appeal among potential buyers, you’ll want it to have that clean, blank canvas look so prospective buyers can easily visualise themselves using the space.

This means tidying away any items that don’t need to be on show. We’re talking bulky appliances, overflowing utensil pots, groceries, glassware and more. You don’t have to throw them out, but rather simply put them away in a cupboard so they’re out of sight when viewings and open houses are taking place.

Install new splashbacks

Splashbacks are an integral feature of modern kitchen design, protecting kitchen walls from everyday spills and splashes while also delivering a stylish design feature.

For homeowners on a tight budget, installing a new splashback could be a quick, affordable way to give this culinary space a fresh, modern update – assuming the rest of the kitchen is in good condition, that is.

From a material point of view, you have plenty of options – patterned tiles, plain tiles, tempered glass, stainless steel and more. Just make sure you choose a finish that complements your existing scheme and has mass appeal.

Update the cabinets

A brand-new kitchen can set you back at least $8,000 – making this an unrealistic option for many sellers, as there’s no guarantee you’ll get a worthwhile return on your investment. So, what are your other options?

Well, one handy trick is to update your kitchen cabinets with a stylish vinyl film wrap cover. Made from robust, durable vinyl, it’s a quick, non-disruptive and cost-effective way to give your kitchen a complete reskin in a choice of various finishes and designs.

From solid colors to wood-effect and marble options, whichever design you choose, the end result will be a chic, contemporary kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a full-scale kitchen refit.

Apply a fresh coat of paint

Repainting your kitchen may feel like a hassle at the time, but it’s important never to underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint.

Not only will paint cover up those dirty prints and marks, but it can also brighten up a room – making a space instantly feel fresher and more inviting.

To maximize the power of paint in your kitchen, we’d suggest opting for a pale, neutral shade such as white, cream or pale beige. These shades have an evergreen, universal appeal – plus, they can be paired with a huge choice of other complementary accent colors to bring some welcome character to the space.

If you can’t resist a little color in your cooking space, or you want to add a little personality with a colored feature wall, try to stick to a tone that works with the rest of your decor and doesn’t overwhelm the space.

Replace kitchen hardware and accessories

When it comes to kitchen updates, they don’t always need to take the form of large-scale refurbishments. Sometimes, the smaller details can be equally as impactful.

This is definitely the case when it comes to your kitchen hardware and accessories. Making a few low-cost yet considered replacements and upgrades can go a long way towards giving your kitchen a high-end, contemporary feel.

Start with your cabinetry and replace old door handles with new designs – this can even extend to other fixtures like light fittings and faucets if you have the budget.

For accessories, swap out mismatched old food containers, utensils and dish cloths with new alternatives that don’t cost the earth. For a chic, cohesive look buyers will love, we’d suggest picking an accent color and design theme – making sure all of your accessories are coordinated, of course.

Getting your home sale-ready does require some effort on your part, but it doesn’t have to mean spending a huge amount of money or time.

With these simple, pocket-friendly kitchen updates, you can spruce up the heart of your home at minimal cost and create an attractive kitchen space that buyers won’t be able to resist.

Original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/5-budget-kitchen-updates-to-help-you-sell-your-home/

written by Gustavo Gonzalez

The pandemic stay-at-home protocols forced us to reevaluate our homes and where we live. Questions about our home size, needing a home office long term and thoughts of relocation to more affordable cities or closer to family were on the minds of many during the last year. Whether due to a life change or a change brought about by the pandemic, millions of people are moving and creating the “Great Reshuffling.” 

 This record rise in Americans moving, coupled with the typical busy moving season in the summer and a shortage of workers, has created the perfect storm. Moving companies are incredibly busy and are working hard to hire the qualified help they need. Moving is challenging enough without scrambling to find a reputable moving company.   

 So what does this mean for those planning to move this summer? Plan ahead! Make your moving reservations as early as possible to beat the surge and put your organizational skills in overdrive. 

 If possible, give yourself eight weeks to handle the moving to-dos in an orderly, low-stress manner. Use the steps below in this two-month moving calendar to keep you calm and prepared. Simply follow these steps and check them off one-by-one:  

 EIGHT WEEKS TO GO: 

• Start the process of selecting a mover 

• Check a mover’s record with the Better Business Bureau in your state and social review sites. A great reputation is the best way to choose a mover 

• Book your mover 
• Start to inventory and divide up your belongings: Decide who gets what, which items to donate, recycle, to take and which items (if any) need to go into short-term or long-term storage 

FOUR WEEKS TO GO:  

• Mail change of address cards or change your information online at the following:  

• • Post office 
  • Local Department of Motor Vehicles for License & Registration  
  • Social security  
  • Insurance companies 
  • Credit card companies 

• • Credit bureau and/or other creditors 
  • Employer (to forward W2s) 
  • Broker 
  • Mail order accounts 
  • Magazines 

• • Friends and relatives 

• Gather personal records (medical, dental, etc.) 
• Arrange to transfer children’s school records 
• Gather all pet’s vet records and make sure all pets are microchipped and chip corresponds to a cell number that goes with you on your move. Order new tags and licenses with new address and your cell phone number 

• Check homeowner’s insurance policies to see if moving is covered. Be sure your new home is protected by transferring fire, theft and other personal-property insurance 
• START TO PACK 

THREE WEEKS TO GO: 

• Make arrangements to discontinue current utilities and schedule the start-up of new utilities: 

• • Landline telephone service 
  • Cable TV  
  • Internet  
  • Electricity (check for refund) 
  • Gas (check for refund) 

• • Fuel oil 
  • House cleaners 
  • Babysitters 
  • Dog walkers 
  • Gardeners 

• • Pool Service 
  • Diaper service 
  • Water 
  • Water softener 
  • Parking 

• • Other: ________________________ 

• • Have appliances serviced for shipment 

 TWO WEEKS TO GO: 

• Arrange to transfer local bank accounts 
• Ask doctors, dentists and veterinarians for medical records  
• Cancel newspaper delivery 
• Refill all prescriptions. Get prescriptions transferred to a new pharmacy closer to the new home 
• Make arrangements to move children and pets. Do you need a babysitter for a day or two? A pet sitter?  

• Confirm that the mover will move houseplants; if not, make arrangements. Houseplants, usually, cannot be moved by a mover, especially on long distance or out of state moves 
• Start to disassemble any shelving, closet systems, etc. that you plan to take or arrange with the mover that they will be doing this on the day of the move 
• If you need one, hire a cleaning crew to come clean your empty place to get your deposit back. Will your new place need a cleaning crew before you move in too?  

 ONE WEEK TO GO: 

• Pack in separate boxes the items necessary for first days in the new home: Label “LOAD LAST.” And label where to put each of those boxes in your new home: 

• • Medicine (always keep prescriptions on you) 
  • Comfortable clothes 
  • Linens and towels 
  • Toothbrushes and toiletries 

• • Paper goods 
  • Disposable plates and silverware 
  • Foil and wax paper 
  • Plastic containers 
  • Microwave 

• • Vacuum cleaner 
  • Garbage bags 
  • Tool kit 
  • Step ladder 
  • Extension cords 

• • Light bulbs 
  • Cleaning items (mop and pail, broom and dust pan, etc.) 

• • Each member of the family should also pack a suitcase with what they need for a few days while you’re getting settled into your new place. Don’t forget cell phone chargers, medications and favorite teddy bears 
• If the movers are packing all or part of your belongings, call to schedule and confirm the details. Make sure your mover knows how much packing you expect to do yourself and how much you expect them to do 
• Plan to use up most food items before the move. If you have any leftover food on moving day, donate it to Move For Hunger 

• Register to vote 

 TWO DAYS TO GO: 

• Defrost and dry refrigerators/freezers to be moved 
• Gather valuables and important documents from jewelry cases, safe deposit box, etc. to take with you in the car. Do not pack these items with your other belongings 

 MOVING DAY! YOU MADE IT! 

 Congratulations, you conquered “The Great Reshuffling!” Not only did you move during a very unique time, you stayed organized and, hopefully, the entire process was much more stress-free. As the winner of this moving marathon, you now get to slowly unpack and peacefully settle into your new and improved lifestyle. 

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/two-month-moving-checklist/

Written by Gustavo Gonzalez

Higher productivity, less stress, more free time – working from home offers plenty of benefits. It also comes with the challenge of rethinking your daily habits while prioritizing your mental and physical health. If you’re looking for ways to improve your 9-to-5 routine, try these five simple ideas.

1. Bring the Outdoors in

We all have an innate need to connect with nature, and organic materials, shapes and colors have been proven to positively affect our mood. If possible, set up your office near a window and incorporate biophilic design elements into the space. A rug made of natural fibers would be perfect to put your desk and chair on. You could hang up artwork or a wall calendar that features outdoor scenes. Plants also help create a calming vibe with the added benefit of improving air quality.

2. Get Comfortable

Sitting for long periods of time can lead to serious aches and pains, so you want to carefully consider your office setup. Invest in a comfortable chair that offers lower back and arm support and pair it with a desk that can be adjusted for standing or sitting. You also want to maintain good posture, so position your keyboard at or just below elbow height and parallel with your forearms. Using a mouse pad with wrist support is another easy way to lessen muscle strain.

3. Keep Moving

Although your job may require you to be in front of a computer for most of the day, you don’t have to remain totally sedentary. Try swapping your chair for a yoga ball. A balance board allows you to strengthen your core muscles while standing, and an under-the-desk elliptical machine is a great option for light cardio. You could also walk around while you’re on the phone and do some simple stretches during breaks to help shake off stiffness.

4. Stay Hydrated

To keep your energy up through the afternoon, you should avoid high-caffeine beverages that temporarily perk you up but make you crash later. Opt instead for mineral water, which comes in a variety of flavors, herbal tea or organic energy drinks. You could also invest in a smoothie blender and create your own delicious combination of fruits, grains and yogurt to enjoy as a late-day treat.

5. Relax When the Day is Done

Allowing yourself time to wind down from a busy schedule is very important. When you’ve logged off for the day, go for a bike ride, head to the gym or take your dog to the park. Half an hour of low-impact yoga in a designated “relaxation zone” is another healthy way to destress and mentally prepare yourself for tomorrow’s challenges.

As you continue to improve your work regimen, always keep your mental and physical wellbeing in mind. Establishing good habits ensures a happy and sustainable professional life.

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/5-tips-for-a-healthy-work-from-home-routine/

Written by Lauren Oosterlinck

Whether you plan to be in your home for just a few more months or many more years, there are plenty of efficient ways to maximize your space and increase its value. This type of investment needn’t require a loan, nor does it have to span any great length of time. From green living to greenery in your yard, here are a few impactful and straightforward means of boosting your home’s value and appeal over the short or long term.

A Smart Move

Green is the new black. Any form of energy efficiencies and conservation in your home will inevitably be a fiscal gain. Whether you install energy-saving window treatments or solar panels, both options can reduce utility expenses for you and any future inhabitants. When it comes time to replace appliances, a prudent decision would be to select a “smart” model of said item, which can significantly lower long-term energy costs.

While on the topic of efficiency, a wise investment would be installing “smart” devices throughout your property. Think digital features such as automated blinds or shades, security cameras, door locks, security lighting and thermostats. When you’re ready to sell, the smart tech will appeal to buyers with a penchant for the added value of convenience and connectivity.

Wide Open Spaces

Create visual space in rooms by keeping them clutter-free and organized, which can be solved by simply installing a stylish shelving unit to keep extraneous items out of sight. Seek the help of a professional organizer who will be bursting with innovative ideas to optimize the storage areas in your dwelling.

Another way to increase square footage without a renovation is to let the sunshine in! Avoid heavy drapes and instead, use modern window treatments that add height such as roller, Roman or cellular shades. Similarly, you can position a decorative floor-to-ceiling mirror in any room to visually double your space.

From the Bottom Up

Explore the possibility of replacing the flooring in a few key spaces. A unique, beautiful and buzzworthy material is cork, which is also known to have antibacterial properties. If you opt for new surfaces under your feet, consider installing radiant heating simultaneously. These systems not only add optimum comfort, but are also aesthetically pleasing and energy efficient.

Make an impact through your lighting choices. Utilize contemporary or dramatic fixtures to complement each room. Whether you choose minimal or eye-catching designs – the right piece in the optimal locale can add intrigue and substance to your residence.

Kick It Up a Notch

Significant updates to your kitchen and bathroom are sure to boost value. Modern appliances and updated décor increase appeal to buyers, so consider a new backsplash or that roomy farmhouse-style sink you’ve been eyeing. Think one step further and install a water filtration system to add practicality and luxury to your dwelling. Additional elements like stylish sconces, a new vanity or a vintage mirror can elevate functionality and increase allure.

It’s Only Natural

Consider your front and backyard. If there is an area that would benefit from some striking landscaping or creative plantings, explore your options or consult with a professional landscape architect or designer. Executed well, a garden or other natural elements in your yard can become lovely extensions of your home’s indoor atmosphere.

When you look around, there are many ways to enhance the comfort and appeal of your property that will serve you well as a resident – and add value one day when you’re ready to sell.

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/savvy-ways-to-increase-your-homes-value-2/

Written by Sam Shalom

‘Tis the season of giving. Here’s a simple way of spreading holiday love and cheer to fill your heart and empty your home.

It’s easy to give and make the holidays a little brighter for those in need. Just look around your home. Perhaps, you have clothing, furniture, kitchen items, or even food that’s been cluttering up your home and fridge? Follow this guide of what and where to give and you’re sure to make Santa proud. It is the ideal time to give your household items a new home and make someone else’s holiday brighter.

THE WHAT & WHERE TO GIVE GUIDE

NON-PERISHABLE FOOD

Clear your kitchen of food items you don’t plan to consume and make room for all of the yummy holiday goodies!

What to Donate:

Wondering if your food bank wants your three pound bottle of mustard? Here are the top items that they need:

• Canned Vegetables & Fruits
• Canned Stews & Soups
• Canned Beans
• Canned Tuna
• Pasta & Sauce
• Baby Food
• Dry Beans
• Flour
• Cereal & Oatmeal
• Juice
• Rice
• Peanut/Nut Butters & Jelly/Jams

Where to Donate:

• Your local Food Bank. You can find your local food bank here
• Check with your local fire department, churches, synagogues, schools and grocery stores to see if they are hosting food pantry donations drop offs
• Moving soon? Find a mover who will volunteer to deliver your non-perishable food to your local food bank at no additional cost. Visit Move for Hunger to find a local participating moving company
• Willing to roll-up your sleeves? Start your own food drive. Simply ask local businesses, schools and libraries to put out your colorfully decorated food drive donation boxes and use your social networks to get the word out. It only takes 1.2 lbs of food to provide a meal to an individual in need, so it doesn’t matter how big your food drive is, every little bit helps

CLOTHING

Make room for your holiday sweaters! Sort through your closets and ask: When was the last time I wore or used this? If you can’t remember, donate it.

What to Donate:

• Baby, kids and adult clothing
• Coats (Kids and families are in great need of coats this time of year.)
• Suits
• Belts
• Scarves
• Ties
• Pocketbooks
• Boots
• Shoes

Where to Donate:

Bring gently used clothing to the following charities, go online or call them to see if they will come to your door to pick up your donations.

• Goodwill
• Salvation Army
• Epilepsy Foundation
• Veteran organizations
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
• Red Cross
• Check with your local fire department, churches, synagogues and schools, to see if they are hosting clothing donation drop offs

TOYS

Make room for what Santa brings! Sort through old toy boxes in your home. Get your kids involved in sorting through their things so they get to learn the ultimate gift – the gift of giving!

What to Donate:

• Gently used, unbroken toys or new toys that are unwrapped (it depends on the charity if a new toy is required so contact them first.)
• Stuffed animals
• Coloring books & crayons
• School supplies and stationery
• Hand held games
• Children’s books
• No toy guns or other violent toys

Where to Donate:

• Toys for Tots. Find your local Toys for Tots drop off locations here
• Local children’s hospitals & hospitals
• Local Boys & Girls Club
• Many local shelters or children’s charities accept toy donations. Use this Homeless Shelter Directoryto find shelters in your area
• Organizations like My Stuff Bagsand Stuffed Animals for Emergencies offer children a familiar object in times of crisis
• Check with your local fire department, churches, synagogues, and schools, to see if they are hosting toy donation drives
• Other places to check includechildren’s social services offices and often stores have a donation bin at the front entrance

HOUSEHOLD GOODS & FURNITURE

Not only are your old things finding a new life, you’re making room for the new and clearing space for holiday entertaining.

What to Donate:

• Gently used furniture
• Antiques, collectibles
• Appliances (small)
• Artwork
• Bedspreads, blankets, curtains, tablecloths, decorative pillows
• Bicycles
• Books, records, tapes, CDs, DVDs
• Cookware, dishes, pots and pans
• Housewares and decorative items
• Jewelry
• Sporting goods

Where to Donate:

• Habitat for Humanity ReStore
• Goodwill
• Salvation Army
• Epilepsy Foundation
• Veteran organizations
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
• Red Cross

CELL PHONES

Clean out the old gadget drawer!

What to Donate:

• Old smart phones & tablets (Make sure to clear your data from it first!)

Where to Donate:

• Visit sites like com and CellPhoneBank.org where you can donate your old smartphone to someone that needs it

GIFT CARDS

Keep your drawers clutter free!

What to Donate:

• Re-gift the gift cards you are given by turning them into charitable donations.

Where to Donate:

• Visit sites like org where you can exchange your retail gift cards for a charity donation. You will receive a tax receipt for the entire full value or residual balance of your card

VEHICLES

Open up a parking space for Santa’s sleigh!

What to Donate:

• Car
• Truck
• RV
• Boat
• Motorcycle
• Trailer

Where to Donate:

• Habitat for Humanity Cars for Homes
• Salvation Army
• Kars 4 Kids
• Wheels for Wishes
• Cars Helping Veterans.org
• Goodwill

Don’t forget it’s the end of the year!

Tidy up those 2022 taxes by making a tax-deductible donation to a favorite local charity or these deserving nonprofit organizations:

• Claire’s Place Foundation: Founded by thirteen-year-old Claire Wineland who was born with cystic fibrosis, the foundation provides financial assistance to families so they can afford to sit bedside while their family member is in the hospital
• Hands and Hearts of Hope: Supports homeless college students, most of whom were emancipated from the foster system and left without resources
• Miry’s List: Provides essential household needs to families who have recently resettled in the United States as vetted refugees from war torn countries such as Syria, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq and the Ukraine
• My Stuff Bags Foundation: Fills overnight bags with new belongings to provide comfort and hope to children who were rescued from abandonment, abuse, domestic violence, homelessness or neglect

Once you have cleared the clutter and given to those who will actually use and need your unwanted items, your heart and home will be filled with love & joy. Afterall, giving with love is the true meaning of the holidays!

Original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/clear-the-clutter-make-an-impact/

Written by Gustavo Gonzalez

No drive time, no waiting for machines, no monthly membership dues, just you and the workout of your choice. Home gym equipment and fitness streaming services have been off the charts over the last few years. It’s a trend that looks like it’s here to stay. Here are few ideas to help you create the home gym of your dreams.

Go big for less. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars in bulky gym equipment to get big results. Start with a $20 yoga mat, a couple sets of dumbbells, resistant bands and jump rope. Next, you can either YouTube some free workout videos or sign up for an inexpensive fitness streaming service. With this equipment alone, you have the perfect mix of strength training, cardio and stretching. The best part, it’s just a few steps away.

Create a studio experience. All the rage are app-based machines. From rowing to biking to running, you can quickly burn calories and increase muscle with an interactive, trainer lead workout. Designed for every level, these on-demand workouts make you feel like you’re in an actual class. Many people find them both motivating and addicting. Either way, you’re going to work up a sweat in the comfort of your own home.

Smart gyms that really save space. For some people making room for a home gym means you might need to get a little creative. What if you’re entire gym was attached right to your wall and looks just like a full-length mirror? Say hello to smart gyms. These space-saving, personal training smart gyms include access to a library of curated classes for every fitness level and workout type. Talk about a sleek and innovative way to work up a good sweat. You will pay a little more for these, but if space is an issue, it might just be worth it.

Whatever your needs are, you can always add equipment along the way. When it comes to a working out, consistency and variety are key, so don’t be afraid to switch things up!

Original article at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/create-the-perfect-home-gym/

written by: Gustavo Gonzalez

You’ve been dreaming day and night about it: Buying your first home. It’s a thrilling prospect for everyone, especially first-time homeowners. With countless properties available online at your fingertips, it’s easy to begin house hunting as soon as the idea strikes. But it’s critical to determine your budget as a homebuyer before you start shopping seriously.

Determining your creditworthiness can help you learn what size mortgage you’ll qualify for and lead you to a realistic homebuying budget. When you obtain a pre-approval from a mortgage lender, you’ll know exactly what you can afford. Having a pre-approval letter will also make your offer more appealing to sellers. To ensure you are set for success for the homebuying journey, contact your Coldwell Banker-affiliated agent, who can connect you with a trusted loan officer.

Prior to any significant purchase, it’s important to set a realistic budget, and buying a home is no exception. Do a reality check on your personal finances. Scrutinize your monthly income, expenses and debt-to-income ratio, so you can assess what funds you’ll have available for a down payment and a monthly payment once you move into your new home.

Another important piece of this puzzle is your credit history. Check your current credit report for any debts you need to pay off so you’re in a stronger position when it comes time to apply for a loan. The higher your credit score is, the more access you’ll have to loans and lower interest rates.

Refer to a handy, online mortgage calculator to study property purchase prices. Do a quick search online and you’ll find a variety of free options. In fact, many allow you to figure in important, relevant factors such as property taxes, down payment amounts, interest rates and home insurance to provide a detailed breakdown of what your monthly payments would look like.

To be really savvy, factor in related expenses such as upfront costs, closing costs and other fees you’ll have prior to closing on a home. Also, budget for standard property maintenance expenses such as homeowner’s insurance, taxes and repairs that may be needed in the short term after closing.

Comfort and joy in your first home start with setting realistic financial expectations ahead of time. Buying a home will likely be the biggest purchase of your life, after all.

original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/how-much-home-can-you-afford/

Author Louise Gaillard

The day that you decorate the Christmas tree at your house is the day that the holidays have officially begun. Homeowners who love the holidays are always looking for new Christmas tree decorating ideas to implement. You might want your Christmas tree to have a special meaning, whether it’s to celebrate the beauty of the holiday season or to celebrate the blessings you’ve received throughout the year. Maybe you want your tree to be reflective of your new home in the city of Philadelphia. Or you might just want a unique idea for your tree that will really capture the attention of your holiday guests. Whatever you have in mind, these ideas for your Christmas tree will help inspire you.

Silver (Liberty) Bells

If you want to pay homage to the city where you now live, feature one of the most iconic symbols that Philadelphia is known for on your tree: The Liberty Bell. Purchase a quality metal replica of the bell to hang from the top of your tree in place of the usual star or angel. Next, hang sparkling medium-sized red, white, and blue snowflake stars from the rest of the tree. Finally, finish the tree’s “liberating” decor by adding small silver bells throughout to complement the larger bell featured at the top. Spritz the tree lightly with a silver glitter shimmer spray to make it really shine.

Tiny Presents from the Tree

It’s traditional to fill the bottom of your Christmas tree with presents — it symbolizes abundance and the spirit of sharing. Instead of just putting presents under the tree this year, why not hang a few from the tree as well? Wrap tiny, meaningful gifts in small, shiny, decorative boxes and hang each one from a gold ribbon. Tell each guest to choose a tiny box the night before Christmas as a preview for the big day. This is a great way to decorate your tree in a way that celebrates your blessings and your love of gift-giving.

Image Source: Flickr/Clayton Shonkwiler

Silver and Gold

Silver is often used interchangeably with gold in decor, but have you ever tried pairing silver and gold together? For a really eye-catching Christmas tree this year, spray paint it from top to bottom in silver, allow it to dry, and then garnish it with gold accents. Use gold-tinted bows, ball ornaments, and tinsel for decoration. Add a beautiful gold star at the top of the tree for the perfect final touch.

As November changes into December, it’s important to remember the many reasons for the season. Decorating for the holidays should be fun, inspiring, and unique — not at all like a chore. Let these Christmas tree decorating ideas get your creative juices flowing. Try something different with your tree this year that will really make it the main attraction at your Philly home throughout the holiday season.

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/3-unique-christmas-tree-decorating-ideas/

Author Audrey Sellers

Christmas tree tips are definitely needed this time of year. After all, the ornament-bedecked and glittering fir (or spruce . . . or pine) is the centerpiece of your holiday decor. There’s no wrong way to trim a tree, but there are certainly some useful pointers to help make your Christmas tree look its absolute best. Whether your tree this year is artificial or real (here’s where you can cut your own tree in Dallas-Fort Worth), check out the helpful decorating tips below.

1. Hang Lights Right

White, multicolored, LED, incandescent — there are many different ways to set your Christmas tree aglow. However, there’s one best way to hang them: Work your way from the bottom up. After you check your bulbs and set up your extension cord, wrap the lights around your tree from bottom to top. If you have extra, re-wrap them from the top going down.

2. Organize Your Ornaments

Here’s one of those Christmas tree tips that often gets overlooked: Have a strategy with your ornaments. Pick a theme or a color palette and lay out your ornaments before you get started. Start by hanging simple ornaments; they make a beautiful backdrop for your sentimental favorites such as homemade decorations or home-team ornaments. Be sure to hang ornaments inside the tree — not just on outer branches — for dimension.

3. Top It Off

You can never go wrong with a classic angel or star to top your Christmas tree, but you can also add whimsy and elegance in other ways. Try topping your tree with a monogram letter as a simple salute to your family, or add rustic charm with a burlap bow. A Santa hat also adds a fun finishing touch — and it couldn’t be easier to place on top or readjust.

4. Don’t Skirt Around It

While Christmas trees traditionally have a tree skirt, don’t be afraid to venture away from the usual this holiday. Some creative alternatives include tree collars and baskets and even galvanized buckets. It’s a way to make a fun statement and bring some festive cheer to the base of your tree. If your tree is themed, it’s the perfect opportunity to tie it all together.

A Christmas tree sets the tone for your entire home’s holiday decor. It’s the place where Christmas morning unfolds — and it’s the backdrop to so many memories before then.

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/4-christmas-tree-tips-for-your-most-majestic-tree-yet/

Author Lindsay Listanski

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!!! Break out that rubbermaid and dust off your ornaments because it’s time to decorate your home like the elf that I know you are. Here are five affordable and totally adorable ways to decorate your home with Christmas ornaments.

Christmas Shadow Box

Adding Christmas Cheer to your home couldn’t be more easy than this easy DIY Christmas Shadow Box idea.

Christmas Ornament Wreath

This project may look difficult but in just four easy steps you will be humming jingle bells. Learn how here.

Window Display

Show your neighbors that you are ready for a Holly Jolly Christmas with this simple hanging ornament idea.

In a Glass Vases

Remind your family it is the Most Wonderful Time of the Year with these easy Vase ideas.

As a Tree

Your guests will be rockin’ around the Christmas Tree when they see this adorable DIY Ornament Tree craft.
   Original Article found at  https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/decorate-like-christmas-elf-budget/