Written by: Jennifer McGuire       April 28, 2022

Need a little help around the house? Today’s technological gadgets can clean gutters, mow lawns, vacuum floors and even clean your toilet bowls. This real-life tech is accessible for everyone to make life a little easier. Check out these cool ideas for some smart home cleaning gadgets.

Say Goodbye to the Pool Boy

Robotic pool cleaners can brush, scrub, vacuum and filter your pool’s surface, making them just as handy, if not more so, than your typical pool maintenance company. Say goodbye to pesky leaves, dirt and grime on the pool walls with a touch a button. Top-of-the-line models let you set daily or weekly schedules with hassle-free cordless options.

Lawn Time Coming

The days of fighting the lawn (and the H.O.A.) are over. Robo lawn mowers are rapidly evolving to become even more efficient, streamlined and even quieter for painless grass cutting. That way, you can focus on spending time with family and friends instead of mowing your lawn under the hot sun. Many models can be scheduled to cut when you want them to and offer easy control, so you can take the work out of yard work.

Toilet Talk

Smart toilets offer amazing technology such as ultraviolet light for sanitizing, night lights, self-cleaning nozzles and deodorizers. These thrones give you more than the traditional toilet. Newly added comforts such as a heated seat, automatic opening and closing lid, front and rear warm water sprays, auto flush and warm-air dryer make your bathroom a high-tech experience.

Pet Products Save The Day

Tired of constantly cleaning the litter box? There’s a robot for that. Check out this awesome list of smart pet products, including a remote-access automatic feeder, glow-in-the-dark collars, automatic pet door, treat tossing camera, GPS trackers and of course, the self-cleaning litter box. You and your furry friends will be glad you did.

Smart Starts in the Garage

If you’ve ever been locked out of your garage, you know the feeling. That’s why smart garage door openers have been popping up everywhere to give homeowners access to easy-to-use tech. From Amazon deliveries to letting family and friends inside, these clever openers don’t just click to close. They let you have control from your phone with daily notifications, custom schedules and even home lighting accessibility while you’re away.

Let’s not forget gadgets that wet mop, clean windows, scrub barbecue grills, offer companionship and even teach the kiddos. With so many options today, new technology can be a reality of modern life and can make yours so much easier!

Written by Gustavo Gonzalez

Instead of repeating New Year’s resolutions that you’ll never keep, this year try setting a few home improvement goals. You’re certainly aware of the typical “paint your front door” advice for a quick home improvement, but you can save the prettying-up for spring and address the basics now. These resolutions will have an immediate impact on your daily quality of life and help you go into the new year worry-free.

Kitchen

If you consider your kitchen the beating heart of your house, cook up some ways to perform preventative maintenance on your appliances. Machines that receive the brunt of day-to-day use (the refrigerator, dishwasher and stove) deserve a deep cleaning and a checkup. Make sure to thoroughly clean behind and underneath them and address any operational issues so you can plan for necessary repairs or replacements.

Improvement Idea: Give your kitchen a little TLC by having the countertops resealed and installing a backsplash.

Living Spaces

There’s nothing quite like settling into a room that’s refreshed from top-to-bottom with spotless windows and floors. Consider renting a floor cleaning machine or scheduling professional services. Furniture with upholstery should get a good steam treatment, and walls could likely use a wipe down to erase months (or years) of smudges and stains. Once you’re finished, your home will look, and more importantly, feel as good as new.

Improvement Idea: To keep floors clean and cut down on the amount of dust particles, irritants and floaters in open areas, consider using air purifiers, entryway shoe racks and robot vacuums/mops.

Garage

Whether it’s your hobby space, tinkering spot or storage for miscellaneous items, the garage is often looked over when it comes to home upkeep – so bring this “out of sight, out of mind” space into the spotlight. Take inventory of everything inside your garage. If you have any unwanted items, set them aside for donation or get rid of them. For everything else, reorganize and declutter by prioritizing items you use often and storing away items that are used sparingly.

Improvement Idea: If you have a bare garage floor, consider having a professional coat it with paint, concrete sealant or epoxy.

Exterior
Think about a big project that you haven’t had time to get to or have been putting off. Are there leaves or debris still sitting in the gutter? Should a pressure washing be scheduled in the upcoming months? Could the landscaping use a touch-up? Once you have a game plan, you can buckle down and tackle these projects one by one.

Improvement Idea: If now isn’t the best time to deal with outdoor projects, calling around to gather info/quotes and set dates is a simple first step to getting these chores taken care of.

To-do lists for home are never exciting, but by setting aside a time allotment for each area, grabbing some help (with the promise of a reward) and setting up your favorite music playlist, you can lighten the load. You’ll finish up with the pride of knowing your home has been renewed and well-kept for the months to come and be proud that you actually kept your New Year’s resolutions this year!

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/5-new-years-resolutions-for-the-home/

Written by Lisa Oosterlinck

In recent months, the world has re-energized, and hope has bloomed in ways that many had not experienced since before this decade began. In contrast, shifting economic and global conditions have awakened and heightened certain sensitivities. This age of extremes has given way to a curious range of design ideas. From eclectic and new to natural and nostalgic, here are some of the most notable home design features and themes we expect to see in the year ahead:

Bring the vacation to you. After nearly two years of limited travel, a sense of wanderlust has arisen for many. Yet, rather than actually traveling to fulfill this urge, savvy decorators have opted instead to create an escape within the residence. With a continued desire to revel in the comforts of home, many have embraced the idea that venturing out truly isn’t necessary to achieve that breezy, revitalizing experience. Using warm wood tones, bright light and airy linen curtains and furnishings, abodes will have rooms – both indoors and out – transformed in the style of beachy resort destinations and dreamy European villas.

Connect to nature and the present. People are recognizing the need to be more present and peaceful in the moment and are erring toward pragmatic sensibilities in lifestyle and functionality. Fostering security and balance continue to be key, but with an emphasis on the senses – which translates into the use of natural textiles and rare materials in home décor such as crude clay, terra-cotta, handcrafted finishings and glazed tiles made from organic materials. Color schemes are inspired by nature and the desert theme has gained in appeal, incorporating gentle colors such as beiges and greys. The trend additionally translates to comforting, tactile interior designs that blend organic shapes, arches and irregular forms to create a cozy, warm aesthetic. Such biophilic design will continue as a trend. In fact, you may even consider adding a full-sized tree to the kitchen – olive trees are favored – to add an impressive fixture and create a Mediterranean or rustic vibe.

Embrace opulence and idiosyncrasy. In a distinctly disparate tone, an “anti-neutral renaissance” has simultaneously gained traction, influencing home interiors. For those on this opposite end of the spectrum, minimalist fatigue has set in, driving the desire for extravagance and affecting a mood for glamour. A major theme for the new year is celebrating individuality, so unique touches, unconventional decorative fabrics and elements will reign. Think luxe jewel tones, whimsical details and embellishments galore. Expect striking visual effects in homes such as curvy and geometric shapes, fanciful rugs, monochromatic rooms in vivid shades like baby pink – as well as two-toned cabinets in contrasting colors. Emerald green, cobalt and rust are expected to be top interior colors in the coming year. Hellenism and antiquity will also see a surge in popularity, so Corinthian-style furnishings, statues and wallpaper motifs will be highly sought after.

Statement stone. Combining aspects of the two aforementioned trends, another desirable style in 2023 will be the use of unexpected stones in surprising ways. Anticipate colorful marble in creative reds, corals, deep blues and jewel tones. Exotic types of porcelain, soapstone and granite will be used throughout the home in a variety of ways: Subtly – as serving platters, side tables or nightstands – and dramatically – as accent walls, tables, bathtubs or countertops that transition into bold backsplashes – to incorporate as standalone art or a stunning focal point.

Whether you feel like a daredevil or crave simplicity, the coming year boasts a menu of delights to fulfill the moods and needs of many appetites. We hope you’re inspired to customize and love your residence more than ever in 2023.

Original Article found at https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/home-design-trends-for-2023/

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/