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/

written by: Jennifer McGuire

Have an extra room that’s just taking up space? Lucky you! Put your creativity to work and transform it into the “play” place you’ve always wanted. Here are just a few suggestions for using that unused area.

Rock Out

Let the rock-n-roll in you rip loose in a room designed to be your very own music studio. Bearing in mind that you’ll want to remain friends with your neighbors, a careful soundproofing plan is key. The door to the space will need to be solid, heavy and insulated with sealing strips. While you’ll be tempted to also seal the windows, it’s important to allow some light in so it won’t feel like you’re playing in an underground bunker. Absorption panels can be purchased to line the walls, and it’s wise to elevate the floor as well to keep the decibels down. By essentially building a ventilated “room within a room,” you’ll be able to enjoy some uninhibited jam sessions.

Divine Dressing

If you’re a fashionista with less than ample closet space, or if you’re seeking solace apart from a portion of a shared closet, then think about turning your spare square footage into the dressing salon of your dreams. Create a beautiful, well-appointed and brilliantly lit wardrobe room complete with floor-to-ceiling shelving, light-reflecting mirrors and plenty of storage for your accoutrements for every season. Add luxury elements like a comfy tufted pouf, an elegant jewelry armoire and even indulge in haute couture for the window treatments by framing them with sumptuous fabric. Dedicate an entire room to your coveted fashion collection by displaying all your favorite finds in full glam grandeur and celebrate the diva within.

Ssss-steam Heat

Ready for a relaxing retreat at the end of a hard day to soothe away daily pressures? If this sounds appealing, then get ready to turn up the heat in your very own steam room. Follow a few careful tips and you’ll be loose as a goose in no time. The key concern, of course, is moisture. Because the entire room will need to be waterproofed, a special door and insulated tile from top to bottom are absolute musts. A polyethylene film for the ceiling and walls, with backerboard to which the tiles will be attached, are other important tools to implement. Once the room is properly protected, a steam generator is all that’s necessary to create your cozy little piece of heaven.

Now that you have some inspiration for wonderful ways to use your extra square footage, it’s time to tally your budget, consider the possibilities and let your imagination run wild.

Original article found here https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/out-of-the-box-spare-room-ideas/

Author: Audrey Sellers

All the best Thanksgiving decoration ideas should add some warmth, class, and personality to your home. When your family and friends gather at your table for roasted turkey and fresh-baked pumpkin pie, give the meal some festive flair with creative seasonal decor. Here are a few ideas to try this Thanksgiving.

Say Thanks with Chalk

Chalkboard signs can work in a number of different ways (you can use them to write quotes or count down to a family member’s birthday, for example), but why not put a Thanksgiving twist on this decor classic? Grab a large white platter and apply a layer of chalkboard paint in the center. Write a message of thanks and display it as a centerpiece on your Thanksgiving table.

Dress Up Your Napkins

Thanksgiving decoration ideas should elevate an ordinary meal into a festive feast. One way to do this is by working napkins into your table decor. You can easily turn an everyday cloth napkin into something special by incorporating an ear of Indian corn. Use a braided cord to tie the corn to the napkin and set it atop a plate. Don’t stop there, though; there are several creative ways to use Indian corn in your Thanksgiving decor.

Fancify a Bowl of Fruit

Thanksgiving isn’t all about gourds. Fruit can also add a festive touch to your holiday table. Bring all the rich colors of fall to your tabletop by displaying pears and apples in a pretty bowl. Take them to the next level by adding some elegant sparkle. By applying adhesive decals in silver, bronze, and gold, you have some chic decor for Thanksgiving. If store-bought fruit just won’t do, turn it into a fruit-picking adventure by visiting one of these pick-your-own farms in Dallas-Ft. Worth.

Bring Acorns Indoors

Here’s a decor idea that puts autumn front and center on your holiday table: acorn votives. You can easily create festive votives by layering acorns around candles in vases. But before you go and round up some acorns from your yard and start placing them in vases, check out this quick primer on how to dry acorns for fall crafts.

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving at your DFW home this year, take some time to add some special decor elements. Many ideas are simple to put together and will go a long way towards creating a festive scene for one of the most festive seasons of the year.

Original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/thanksgiving-decoration-ideas-to-set-the-scene/

Written by: Gustavo Gonzalez

When it comes to adorning the walls of your home, you need to do a little digging and a lot of experimenting before making a color commitment. Every creative venture requires inspiration – and that especially applies to decorating your home.

• Look to Mother Nature. Any color combination found in nature can easily be translated into an interior arrangement and make for a soothing ambience. Spend a little time outside, observe which tones you’re drawn to most and bring your ideas back home.
• Defer to a beloved pattern. Whether it’s from your favorite wallpaper, dress or artwork, a preexisting pattern is likely to coordinate well. Even if the pattern incorporates disparate colors, a harmony can be achieved by layering a dominant tone with more subtle hues.
• Consider your target vibe. The colors in each room should correlate, emotionally and visually, so pinpointing the overall atmosphere you want for your home can help you determine which shades to use in each room.

The process of conceptualizing your perfect home palette also requires some technical observation. Here are some additional steps to help in your color choices.

• Sketch out a floor plan. Note the immovable pieces in each room – such as wallpaper, furniture or décor. Be sure that the hues you’re considering can coexist with these items.
• Understand and contemplate value. As you put together your favorite mix of colors, consider the concept of value, or the relative degree of lightness and darkness. Think about integrating dark, bright and light shades in each room.
• Observe daily light changes. Color is drastically impacted by light, so you should note how much daylight each space receives. For a room with less sun exposure, use a warm combination to offset the shadows. For a room with plenty of windows, darker hues may be best.
• Decide on a neutral. A successful in-home color palette should include one neutral hue. These timeless shades give the space a cohesive look and feel. When certain color fads fade, you can phase them out while keeping your neutrals and general design intact.

Before applying a single stroke of paint to any of your walls, you’ll want to buy samples of your favorite shades and test them out on a small section of your walls. After you’ve done some informed, artistic deliberation, the home color scheme of your dreams will be within reach.

original article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/tips-for-the-perfect-home-color-palette/