Nicholas Yount, REALTOR

When it comes to packing for a move, the kitchen is generally the most difficult room to tackle. Dishes are fragile and you need to take extra care to get them to your new home in the same condition they were in when you packed them. Here are some simple and effective strategies. Use the Right Supplies When moving fragile belongings, cardboard boxes are safer than plastic containers. If you don’t have the boxes that your dishes originally came in, you can buy boxes that are designed for dishes, but that can be expensive and unnecessary.  You can pack dishes safely in ordinary cardboard boxes, provided you wrap and pad them carefully. Since you will be inserting dishes vertically, make sure you choose boxes that are tall enough. Use packing paper, not bubble wrap. Packing paper is easy to crumple up and put in and around dishes, and it will create air pockets to provide cushioning. Bubble wrap, on the other hand, is bulkier, harder to work with and takes up more space.  You wil...

While seasonal decor may be the final cherry on top of a styled home, you don’t have to create a magazine-worthy space to enjoy the benefits of weather-appropriate decor. In the fall and winter, great decor can enhance the warmth and welcoming atmosphere. These ideas can help you curate a space perfect for the cold weather. Opt for Hygge This Danish tradition may not be as trendy as it was in past years, but there is no doubt that hygge decor is perfect for the cold seasons. Danes combine cozy blankets and rugs, twinkling lights and relaxing with friends and family to create a warming atmosphere. They also use transparent fabrics like chiffons on windows to ensure privacy and encourage natural light. Go Reversible or Transitional Fall and winter are host to a plethora of favorite holidays. Don’t be afraid to highlight your favorite holiday with transitional or reversible decor. Throw pillows can be an excellent way to feature holiday-specific patterns. When the holiday is over, simply ...

Many homeowners love their pets as part of the family. If you feel that your furry friend deserves special consideration when it comes to home upgrades, you’re not alone. These four ideas are perfect for pet lovers who want to make their house a true home for their best friends. Purchase Pet-Proof Materials Even well-behaved pets can do a number on a fragile item. Between scratches, pet hair, slobber and accidents your home and furniture has to endure a lot when it comes to your pet. Ensure that you are looking for pet-friendly materials. Scratch-resistant flooring, stain-resistant fabrics and sturdy furniture should all be prioritized. Bonus? These choices can add value down the road, many families will love that their pets and children can play without risking too much damage to the space. Re-Landscape the Yard Pet-friendly yards are about more than a place to play with a fence. Cats and dogs are notorious for having reactions to common garden plants. Keep Fido and Tiger safe by eval...

Is your kitchen in need of a refresh? Instead of dropping thousands of dollars on a full kitchen remodel, a fresh coat of paint on your cabinets can transform this space and make you feel like you’ve just stepped into a brand new kitchen. But before you break out the paintbrush and a pop of color, you need to be prepared. Here are five tips you should follow before you take on this DIY painting project.  Remove the Doors and Hardware Though it can be tempting to paint directly on the cabinets—don’t. Taking the doors off is an essential first step for ensuring the best results. If you do not remove the doors, you may paint a cabinet shut, miss spots behind the doors and end up with an overall messy final product. This will also help to avoid dripping, which can cause a huge mess.  Once the doors are removed, be sure to take off any and all hardware, including door and drawer pulls, plus any hinges on the doors and cabinets. Be sure to label them as you take them off so that onc...

Are you planning a move to a new apartment or house? If so, you could likely use some moving boxes to transport your belongings. Unfortunately, purchasing moving boxes can quickly burn a hole in your wallet. Here are some places you can go to get yourself some moving boxes for free! Visit Your Local Grocery Store Grocery stores are a great place to find large, recycled boxes. Because they regularly stock their shelves with bulk deliveries, they likely have numerous boxes in their stock room. Simply go into your town’s grocery store, big or small, and ask if they have any boxes you can take home with you.  Check Your Work Office If you work in an office that has constant deliveries, you may not have to go very far to find some boxes perfect for your move. Talk to your mailroom or managers and ask them to set aside a few for you to use for your move.  Ask You Local Liquor Store Just like a grocery store, liquor stores regularly get bulk deliveries. Whether it is a case of liquor...

Roof repairs are often expensive. If a problem occurs, you may be tempted to buy materials, watch some videos online and tackle the repairs yourself. That can be a big mistake. You May Underestimate the Scope of the Problem Professional roofers know how to spot signs of roof damage. They also understand that issues are often more serious than they initially appear. If you don’t understand how roofing systems work and know what to look for, you may miss a significant problem. For example, you may think that your roof just has a few missing shingles. A professional roofer, however, may discover that water has gotten into the area where those shingles used to be and damaged the beams underneath and may realize that the roof needs major repairs. You Can Make the Problem Worse Fixing a roof isn’t as simple as it may seem. Using tools or installing shingles incorrectly can cause even more damage. For example, you may install shingles and leave gaps that can let water in. If that happens, you...

No matter the value of the space we call home, we want it to look as luxurious as possible, even on a small budget. Decorators share tips on small upgrades that add more than their money’s worth of grace and glamour. Quick tip: choose one or two as your budget permits. A Grand Entrance  -  First impressions begin at the doorway. Start with a clean and freshly painted door, add a nice doormat and a potted plant or two and be sure the entryway is effectively lighted at night. Attractive Lighting  -  Good lighting can bathe a room in luxury, and a huge array of interesting light fixtures is surprisingly inexpensive. Fake High Ceilings  -  Floor to ceiling drapes can make a room look tall and grand, and you can fake the look by placing the curtain rod higher than the actual window. Big Art  -  Artwork doesn’t have to be expensive, but it can look expensive when chosen well and placed on a major wall. A Backsplash  -  A backsplash, perhaps in...

A bedroom should be a sanctuary where you immediately feel a little bit lighter, calmer and more relaxed. One of the best ways to transform your bedroom into this oasis of tranquility is the color you select for the walls. Whether you prefer light and airy or opt for deep and moody, the color of your walls will set the overall tone for the vibe of your bedroom. Read on to be inspired to create your dream bedroom retreat. Benjamin Moore Simply White If you want a blank canvas for layering, a warm white like Benjamin Moore Simply White is a clean, crisp classic. It’s a fresh shade of white that is visually calming and ideal for layering in plenty of texture. So whether you’re layering in a wool carpet, a sheepskin rug, cashmere blankets, various lighting layers, or woven furniture accents, white paint will always provide a serene backdrop. Sherwin-Williams Ripe Olive If earthy, rich hues draw you in, Sherwin-Williams Ripe Olive provides both a timeless and current look. The deep olive co...

Guests who visit your house, and those who are thinking about buying it, will form an impression within seconds. Sprucing up your home’s exterior can create the type of impression you want. If you’re planning to sell your house, boosting its curb appeal can help you sell it for your asking price, or possibly even more.  Cut the Grass and Trim the Hedges An unkempt yard can immediately create a negative impression. If you’ve put lawn maintenance on the back burner, now is the time to make it a priority and get your yard back in shape. Mow the lawn (no more than one-third at a time to avoid damaging the grass) and trim the bushes and hedges. If you don’t know how to do something, don’t have the right equipment or aren’t physically able to do it yourself, ask someone to help or hire a professional landscaper. Repaint the Front Door, Window Trim and Shutters A door that has been damaged or worn by years of exposure to harsh weather can send the wrong message to potential buyers. A fres...

Pests, such as termites, bed bugs and rodents, can damage your home’s structure, as well as your belongings. Some types of pests can carry diseases, and some, such as rodents, can chew through electrical wiring.  Homeowners insurance generally won’t cover pest damage. Under some specific circumstances, however, your insurer may cover all or part of your claim for pest-related damage. Homeowners Insurance Doesn’t Cover Preventable Damage In general, homeowners insurance only covers unexpected damage. For instance, if a storm with strong winds damages your roof, your insurance company will most likely cover the cost of repairs or replacement. Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover damage that occurs because the owner failed to make necessary repairs or perform routine maintenance. If, for example, your roof is damaged in a storm, but the roof was already in poor condition because you neglected maintenance for years, your insurer will deny the claim. It may also refuse to pay if a tree ha...

A marble floor offers an effortless elegance to any room. While typically used in entryways or bathrooms, marble’s high durability coupled with its natural yet luxurious appearance makes it flexible enough to use in nearly any room. A natural stone, marble can withstand heavy use and is easy to clean. And, marble comes in seemingly endless patterns, veining, colors and sizes, which will make each surface look unique.  Stretcher Bond Pattern A stretcher bond pattern is a traditional, horizontal brick-like layout with rectangular tiles that are staggered. This traditional configuration is clean and classic, and works exceptionally well in a bathroom. It can be carried from the floor to halfway up the wall. Or, it can be applied all the way to the ceiling for a more polished look. While white marble is classic, black marble in a stretcher bond pattern will create a modern and sophisticated look. The stretcher bond pattern can also be rotated into a more unexpected vertical design. Dia...

A powder room is a perfect place to go big and bold with your design because it’s such a small space. As you design your powder bath, consider it your calling card and make it a room that will be memorable to guests long after they leave. A powder bath is a perfect space to take design risks you wouldn’t otherwise feel comfortable making in larger areas. Read on to learn how you can create an enormous impact in a small space. Envelop the Space in Wallpaper A powder room isn’t complete without wallpaper. A bold print adds drama and won’t overpower the room since it’s a small enough space. Additionally, since powder bath’s don’t have the humidity that comes with a shower, they are the perfect location to hang wallpaper. A powder room has several different wallpaper application methods that will make a statement: Wallpaper the walls and paint the ceiling Wallpaper the walls and ceiling in the same design Wallpaper the walls and ceiling in two complementary prints, using a larger pattern f...

Whether you’re in the market to buy, build or renovate, understanding different design styles can provide additional insight into the buying, building or renovation process. Even if you’re working with a design-build firm or an interior designer, having basic design terminology in your back pocket can help you most effectively hone in on your preferred design style. This will ultimately make navigating the design process more manageable. This guide will break down the different home design styles to help you immerse yourself in the design process. Traditional Design A traditionally designed home doesn’t have to mean tired or stuffy. You can adjust this classic style to your taste and lifestyle preferences. While traditional style typically complements the details of older homes, you can also layer it into newer construction. You can accomplish this through incorporating intricate mouldings, classic finish selections, such as polished nickel or antique brass, layering the lighting and s...

Paying off your home loan is a momentous accomplishment that can free up a significant amount of cash each month. Think carefully about how to spend it and make sure you don’t neglect expenses that you’ll still have to cover once your house is paid off. Direct Extra Funds to Other Goals Your mortgage was most likely your largest debt, but it probably wasn’t the only one. If you still have an auto loan or credit card bills, you’ll be able to put more money toward those debts each month and pay them off at a faster pace. You should have enough money in an emergency fund to cover essential living expenses for at least a few months. Now that you don’t have to worry about monthly mortgage payments anymore, you’ll have an opportunity to beef up your emergency fund.  If you haven’t saved as much as you’d like for retirement, paying off your home loan will give you an opportunity to put more money into a 401(k) or an IRA. If your retirement is several years or decades away, pumping additio...

Having areas in your home that allow your kids to burn energy and occupy themselves is a luxury in itself. However, creating a space to encourage play and keep your children engaged benefits the whole family, whether inside or outside. Read on to get inspired to develop creative play spaces throughout your home. Indoor Climbing Wall Installing an indoor climbing wall in your basement, playroom or backyard will challenge your child and is a great way to burn energy. Whether it’s a stand-alone climbing wall or you attach climbing pegs to an interior wall, remember to install cushioning at the bottom to protect against inevitable falls. Swing High An indoor swing can help build your child’s balance, core strength and can be a vessel for their imaginations to grow. Whether it’s a swing bed on which to lounge and play make-believe, a swing chair to curl up and read books, or a traditional swing on which to swing high, an indoor swing will provide hours of entertainment. Indoor Monkey Bars A...

While your primary bathroom isn’t a space that gets a lot of traffic, it’s a space that is probably the most used. Your bathroom’s design can set the tone with how you will start your day, as well as how you will conclude your day. Therefore, elevating your daily experience in your bathroom can be an overall mood booster. Here are some go-to ways to upgrade your primary bathroom and create a bathroom spa retreat. Soaking Tub A leisurely bath in a soaker tub to wind down for the evening is necessary in any spa-inspired bathroom. A soaker tub in a material such as cast-iron or copper will retain water heat longer, but will also require ongoing maintenance. Customizing the length, width, height and shape will lend to your overall bath experience. In addition, accessorizing your tub with easy-to-access bath salts, a drink holder and a place to set your reading materials will lend to the overall experience.  Shower Styles To elevate your shower experience, a walk-through shower or steam...

Everyone knows the importance of keeping the bathroom clean. Of all the rooms in your home, the bathroom is certainly the first area you risk grime and germ build-up. While consistent cleaning is an important part of caring for your bathroom, even the tidiest of homeowners may be forgetting the important task of replacing bathroom items often enough. Don’t forget to replace these four items in your bathroom. Bath Toys As fun as your children’s adorable rubber ducky may be, it could be harboring an unhealthy mold. Squeaky rubber bath toys often do not drain properly, causing mildew and grime to build up over time. If your child’s bath toy has seen better days, consider replacing them or swapping to a toy that is designed to drain more easily. Shower Curtain Liners Shower curtain liners too often are ignored, but these seemingly clean items can start to build up an excess of soap scum if you’re not careful. For flimsy liners, it is best to dispose and replace them every six months. To pr...

There is no doubt that moving is stressful, as there are some aspects to moving you cannot control. There are ways, however, to make the bulk of the packing and moving process easier. These packing hacks will make your next move a breeze. Start Early Some moves happen unexpectedly due to unforeseen circumstances, but many are planned a long time in advance. If you have moving on your mind, even if your plans aren’t yet solidified, now is the time to start packing and organizing anything you won’t miss. Eliminating the crunch time filled with last-minute packing can reduce a hefty portion of stress. Declutter Often Starting early allows you the time to take a moment to declutter. There is a lot of effort involved in moving each box you take to your new home, so don’t get stuck moving items you never really wanted to keep in the first place. If you are in a time crunch, don’t worry about decluttering the hard sentimental items, just focus on the easy things you know you don’t need. Stock...

Credit bureaus weigh several factors to calculate your credit scores. One important factor is your credit utilization ratio, or the percentage of your available credit you’re using.  How Is Your Credit Utilization Ratio Calculated? Your credit utilization ratio is the sum of all your credit card balances divided by the sum of all your credit limits. For example, if you have balances that add up to $5,000 and you have three cards with credit limits of $10,000, $3,000, and $2,000, your credit utilization ratio is 33% ($5,000 divided by $15,000 of total available credit). What Is a Good Target for Your Credit Utilization Ratio? Though there is no hard-and-fast rule about how much credit you should use, the lower the percentage, the better. Credit bureaus generally recommend that consumers aim for a credit utilization ratio of 30% or less. Keeping your ratio below 30% can raise your credit scores. Other factors, such as your payment history, your mix of accounts and the average age of ...

If you’re searching for your next home, you may have a long list of qualities that you want it to have. It’s important to separate non-negotiables from features that would be nice to have, but aren’t essential, so you don’t waste time looking for a “perfect” house that simply doesn’t exist. Figure Out What’s Truly Important to You Think about your family’s lifestyle, plus your current and future needs, to decide what qualities your new house absolutely has to have. You may need a specific number of bedrooms and bathrooms, a large backyard, a good school district, a short commute, parks and other activities nearby, or a house that a disabled family member can navigate easily.  Once you’ve made a list of all the features a house must have, make another list of qualities that you would like it to have, but that you don’t consider dealbreakers. For example, maybe you would be willing to consider a house with a small backyard if a park is right down the street.  Share both lists wi...

If you make a down payment of less than 20% and take out a conventional mortgage, you’ll most likely have to purchase private mortgage insurance. PMI is meant to protect your lender in the event that you default on your loan.  You will have to pay for private mortgage insurance until you have at least 20% equity. Before you eliminate PMI altogether, you may be able to lower your private mortgage insurance premiums and reduce your total housing costs. How Your Loan-to-Value Ratio and Credit Score Can Affect Your PMI Premiums Your loan-to-value ratio is your mortgage balance divided by your home’s current value and converted to a percentage. If you make a small down payment, you will have a high loan-to-value ratio. Your lender will consider you a high risk, forcing you to pay more for PMI than a borrower who makes a larger down payment.  Your credit score also influences the cost of PMI. A borrower with a lower credit score is considered risky and is therefore charged higher PM...

High-end kitchen designs are continually changing and evolving. Whether your kitchen plans involve a refresh or a complete redesign, keeping it current means staying up-to-date on kitchen trends. Today’s luxury kitchen is at the intersection of function, technology and aesthetics, so combining these elements will create the ultimate high-end kitchen. Read on to learn the aspects every luxury kitchen needs to have. Double Kitchen Island One oversized island is excellent, but two are better. Kitchen islands are the focal point of a kitchen and are usually where friends and family gather. A kitchen island is also the primary place for food prep. With two kitchen islands, one can be used to prepare a meal, complete with a sink or stovetop, while the other island can be used for grazing and gathering. Quartzite Counters Contrary to misconception, quartzite is not comparable to quartz. Quartzite is a natural stone that looks like marble, with the durability of granite. However, quartzite is ...

When you’re searching for your dream house, you’ll likely spend a good chunk of time touring open houses—and while you may have a list of ‘must-haves’ or ‘no-no’s’ in mind, it’s easy to be distracted by color and/or other cosmetic touches that keep you from noticing more critical factors. Experienced real estate agents know what to look for. But if you’re touring on your own, here are eight things you should definitely be alert to. Signs of Water Damage  -  They may not be obvious, so look for water marks on the ceilings or brown water marks on the walls. If there’s carpeting in the basement, be sure it is dry and be wary of a musty odor. Foundation Cracks -  While these, too, may not be obvious, check for misaligned doors or windows, sticking doors or sloping floors, which may be signs the house is not solidly anchored. Too Many Stairs -  They may not bother you now, while you are young and healthy, but will Grandma be able to handle them—and will you when you are h...

An island can give you additional work and/or seating space in your kitchen, but it’s not a good choice for every home. An island can sometimes make a kitchen feel smaller and make it harder to get work done. Reasons to Install a Kitchen Island If you need more space to prepare meals, an island may be the solution. It can give you a place to cut vegetables, use appliances and set ingredients and utensils. An island can also be helpful if you like to cook with a family member, but you often find yourselves bumping into each other. An island can increase the amount of storage space in your kitchen. It can be designed with built-in drawers so dishes and small appliances are easily accessible, but out of sight when you don’t need them. Working at an island can let you face family members and friends, and talk to them while you prepare a meal. That can be much more pleasant than conversing while you’re facing a wall with your back to others.  While you’re working at a kitchen island, yo...