Tuesday, March 31, 2020
Tarek El Moussa’s 5 Tips To Step Up Your Videoconference Look While Working at Home
Getty Images; realtor.com
Given the dire news all around us, we understand the need for levity for your backdrop on a videoconference while you’re working (very likely not by choice) at home. We’ve scanned a wide swath of articles about how to conjure up fun, quirky, and downright kooky backgrounds on conferencing apps.
But let’s cut through the clutter: If you’re meeting with clients, presenting to the CEO, or on a job interview, you probably shouldn’t have Joe Exotic looming over your shoulder. You want to present yourself in the best possible light—in more ways than one.
Many telecommuters now need help to craft a signature videoconferencing background look. For assistance, we reached out to HGTV star Tarek El Moussa for a few fundamentals on how to shine on screen.
The “Flip or Flop” guru knows a thing or two about lighting, decor, and presentation. Here are his top five tips for making the camera your friend!
1. Set the stage
Consider how you want to be seen, and tailor your background to your expertise. This creates a visual reminder to other folks on a call about who you are and what you do well.
“You want to have an interesting frame that matches whatever the context of your message is,” says El Moussa. “For me, I like to have something that showcases the interior of my house with bright colors. It’s interesting, visually pleasing, and matches my topic: real estate!”
realtor.com
2. Depth of field
We’ve all seen folks on calls who look like they’re trapped in a remake of “The Blair Witch Project.” To avoid the undesirable “coming to you live from a bunker” look, make sure to give yourself space and have something behind you beyond a blank wall.
“When I do a videoconference, I like to make sure it doesn’t look like my back is up to the wall and the camera is an inch away from my face,” says El Moussa. “It feels cluttered and looks bad. Try to have a background that has some depth and room behind you.”
YouTube
3. Quality counts
Although we’ve all been thrown into this new video communication reality, El Moussa says your background needn’t be slapdash. Spend time to come up with a high-quality look, and you’ll be amazed by the responses from other folks on the line.
“When you do a video call with a plain white wall or a boring background, viewers subconsciously associate it with something of low quality because it’s just so boring,” he says. You don’t want your ideas and points of view to be painted with the broad brush of boredom.
And if you can’t make any of your walls work, try referring to his advice about opening up the field of vision.
“If you don’t have a great setting,” the HGTV star explains, “I would suggest having an open background so people on the call can’t exactly tell where you are.”
4. Dampen noise levels
Your co-workers and casual business associates can laugh off the occasional appearance from a diapered toddler or barking dog during a video chat. In fact we live for a moment to break up the monotony. But for more formal interactions, take the time to lock down any extra noise makers, which can knock an agenda off track.
Testing the acoustics in your designated video chat area and taking the time to make sure your audio is on point makes a difference.
Aside from appearances, El Moussa says, acoustics are the paramount issue. “The most distracting thing of all is background noise,” he says.
Don’t let your message get muffled or drowned out by the din.
“Make sure you choose a place that is quiet, allows for good audio, and helps you stay focused. If you have kids yelling, dogs barking, or a loud washing machine, for example, it’s very hard for viewers to focus on your message regardless of how good it looks,” he says.
5. We’re all doing our best!
Inevitably, there will be some mistakes along the way. Which is A-OK! Just chalk it up and move on, El Moussa suggests.
“I find one of the best things to do when you don’t have a great background or setting is to bring it up playfully. Simply call it out for what it is, and then joke about it,” says El Moussa.
No matter how hard you try, you can’t always cultivate the perfect backdrop.
“People understand it can be hard sometimes to get a perfect videoconference environment. If you just address it and laugh it off to start with, people will move on and listen to what’s important,” he continues.
The post Tarek El Moussa’s 5 Tips To Step Up Your Videoconference Look While Working at Home appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.
Crucial COVID-19 Cleaning Tips: How To Keep Your Home Virus-Free During the Pandemic
mixetto/Getty Images
Probably one of the most disturbing details to recently emerge about COVID-19 is just how long the virus can live on surfaces. Another scary thought? The fact that an estimated 42% of us aren’t even cleaning those surfaces properly.
This is all particularly unsettling considering that highly trafficked places like grocery stores and gas stations are teeming with germs, and now you run the danger of bringing it all home with you—on your clothing, your bags, your phone, and more.
We wanted to find out just how long the virus can survive on various household surfaces, and how to stop it from spreading throughout your home. So we called on several seasoned experts for advice. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your home virus-free at the height of the outbreak.
How long the virus survives—and where it thrives
The novel coronavirus can survive on surfaces anywhere from hours to days.
The latest information is that it can last 24 hours on cardboard, 48 to 72 hours on plastic, and 48 to 72 hours on stainless steel, says Dr. Reuben Elovitz, internist and CEO at Private Health Dallas, who cited a recent study from the New England Journal of Medicine.
The duration also depends on a few other factors, like temperature and whether a surface is prone to holding moisture.
“Wooden handles, for example, are more likely to be damp than metal under normal conditions—and damp conditions can enable many infectious agents to thrive,” explains molecular biologist Dr. Tracey Evans. “Furthermore, a warm room is more favorable for many pathogens than a cold one.”
Regardless of what kinds of temperatures and surfaces you have in your home, there are things you can do to keep these dangerous pathogens at bay.
Ditch germs at the door
Phynart Studio/Getty Images
Unwanted germs are getting into your home the same way you are: through the front door. By taking a few precautions in your entryway, you can prevent them from spreading farther.
“Disinfect things immediately after they come into the home,” says immunologist and telemedicine expert Dr. Tania Elliott. “Especially if you’ve gone outside or brought in any food or packages.”
Kick off dirty shoes at the door, wipe down any bags, and add a trash bin near your entryway for paper or plastic packaging that may have been exposed.
Remove dirty clothes immediately
Ditching dirty packaging isn’t the only thing you should shed at the door. After all, you wouldn’t want to forget about the germs you might be wearing.
“We recommend putting clothes directly into the hamper immediately upon entering the home, since the coronavirus lives on fabrics and porous surfaces,” says Vanesa Levine, chief marketing officer for HCH Management. “Do not shake dirty laundry before washing—to avoid self-contamination—and wash it in the warmest possible water.”
Start a clean-hands routine in the entryway
You’ll also want to get in the habit of disinfecting your hands (and phone) whenever you get home.
“I created a station by my front door with a little table and a Lazy Susan that has homemade hand sanitizer and lotion, alcohol wipes for phones, and a small garbage can,” says Katy Winter of Katy’s Organized Home. “When my kids walk in the house, they know the protocol before they start touching everything.”
Zephyr18/Getty Images
Trap particles before they spread
Another way to keep germs from getting in? Use doormats in high-traffic areas—and vacuum them frequently.
“Many people think that bare floors are cleaner than carpet, but dust, allergens, and dirt particles settle on hard surfaces and get stirred back into the air more easily the next time there’s activity in the room,” explains Jotham Hatch, vice president of training and business development for Chem-Dry. “Rugs placed on these surfaces act as filters, trapping particles until it is time to vacuum.”
Focus on cleaning high-touch surfaces
Before you go to town cleaning every last surface in your home, take a moment to assess which ones need it most. According to the experts, you’ll want to focus on high-touch surfaces above all else—since keeping those clean will stop the transmission of germs to other areas of the home.
High-touch surfaces include all the things you touch the most—like doorknobs, light switches, cabinet pulls and handles, railings, faucets, remote controls, and even tabletops.
martinedoucet/Getty Images
Use effective cleaning products
When it comes to actually cleaning these areas properly, make sure you’re using the right products.
“When killing surface germs or viruses is your goal, look for products that contain a disinfectant,” says Brian Sansoni, spokesman for the American Cleaning Institute.
Some of the more frequently used active ingredients are sodium hypochlorite, ethanol, pine oil, hydrogen peroxide, citric acid, and quaternary ammonium compounds.
Still not sure what to use? Check out this list from the EPA.
Disinfect things the right way
You’ll want to follow these cleaning guidelines: Pre-clean any hard surfaces, such as countertops, prior to disinfecting to remove excess dirt or grime, Sansoni says. Then disinfect following the instructions on the product label.
But this next part is key.
“After using a disinfectant spray or a disinfecting wipe on a surface, you will need to wait anywhere from 30 seconds to several minutes for the product to effectively kill a germ or virus,” Sansoni says. “The key is to check the product label, because the wait times can vary.”
If you’re cleaning something that belongs to young children or comes in direct contact with food, rinse with water after the product dries, Sansoni recommends.
A final note: Be sure to read labels before you start cleaning.
“The reality is some surfaces are just not made for true disinfection,” says Melissa Homer, chief cleaning officer for MaidPro. “Fine wood tables, antiques, and furniture with nonwashable paint can’t be soaked in disinfectant. For those items, your best option is to keep them as clean as you can—after all, plain old soap removes 97% of germs—and to not touch them unless you are sure you have washed your hands recently.”
Set up a cleaning schedule
Once you’re armed with the right cleaning products, you’ll want to set up a cleaning schedule that makes sense for your family.
“Obviously, cleaning frequency depends on household members’ work and lifestyle,” says Dr. Jagdish Khubchandani, professor of health science for Ball State University. “If you have someone who’s a healthcare worker or still working outside, aggressive measures will be needed.”
Khubchandani recommends doing laundry and vacuuming at least two to three times per week, and disinfecting cellphones three to four times per day. And then for everything else?
“At the very minimum, clean surfaces every six to eight hours,” Evans says. “But keep in mind, this may not be nearly enough if multiple people have contact.”
The post Crucial COVID-19 Cleaning Tips: How To Keep Your Home Virus-Free During the Pandemic appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.
Monday, March 30, 2020
The Only Equipment You Need for a Solid Shelter-at-Home Workout
miodrag ignjatovic/Getty Images
With gyms and boutique fitness studios temporarily shuttered due to the coronavirus, people are having to get their fitness on in the comfort of their own home. Good news: It’s a membership-free situation that gives you the flexibility to work out whenever you want. But unless you’re, say, the co-founder of Equinox Fitness with the most insane home gym we’ve ever seen, you likely don’t have all the high-end dedicated fitness equipment needed for a state-of-the-art sweat sesh.
So you need to get resourceful, and a bit creative.
To outfit your at-home workout space, first start by taking stock of the type of moves you want to do.
“Write down a list of exercises you’ll want to perform. That will help you determine what equipment is necessary to have in your home gym,” says Chris DiVecchio, owner of Premier Mind & Body, a wellness coaching company based in Manhattan Beach, CA.
To get your burn on, any well-appointed home gym starts with these essentials.
Yoga mat
Prana
Exercises like Pilates and yoga will require a soft surface, and a cushioned yoga mat ($41.25, Prana) will do the trick. But those aren’t the only instances when a mat like this will come in handy. DiVecchio says a yoga mat will be useful for anyone who plans to do core work and body weight exercises.
Foam roller
Amazon
Stretching is a vital part of your workout, but another pre- or post-exercise practice you should consider making a habit is using a foam roller ($16.99, Amazon). This lightweight piece of equipment allows you to apply pressure to muscles, tendons, and ligaments that are tight. Experts agree that foam rolling can improve blood flow and flexibility, decrease your risk of injury, and relax sore muscles.
Stability ball
DiVecchio recommends buying a stability ball ($21.97+, Amazon) for your home because it’s extremely versatile. You can use it for core, leg, and upper body workouts. It comes in different sizes—45, 55, and 65 centimeters—but he says the 55 cm ball “is your best choice to cover all your bases.”
Free weights
Target
To get the most out of strengthening exercises, you’ll need a good set of free weights ($3.49 each, Target). Opt for lighter weights if you’re looking to tone your muscles, but if you’re trying to bulk up, consider buying a heavier set. The best part about these weights? They come in a range of trendy colors that’ll complement any stylish home.
Jump rope
Amazon
Want to get your heart pumping in minutes? Find an open space and try jumping rope ($8.98, Amazon). Proceed with caution if you live in an apartment building or with someone who is working from home. But you can always take your playground toy-turned-cardio tool to the backyard or park and jump like nobody’s watching.
Core sliders
Walmart
These sliding pads ($12.95, Walmart) are a staple in any total-body workout. A few reps with these babies will have your legs, arms, and abs burning—in a good way.
Clean up and storage
Cleanliness is just as important in your home gym as it is at your outside gym. That’s why you’ll want to have gear on hand to wipe down and disinfect your exercise items and workout station.
A towel and room fan ($43.97, Amazon) will help keep you cool and not drenched in sweat during your workout. Spray your equipment down with a disinfectant spray and wipe it dry when you’re finished.
Once the cleanup is taken care of, equipment should be organized and put away. If it doesn’t fit in your closet, we like the idea of storing your stuff in a wicker basket ($41.30, West Elm).
DiVecchio says the stability ball can be a challenge to put away, but he does offer a tip to repurpose the ball that may incidentally fit well with your new home office space.
“Replace your desk chair with it,” says DiVecchio. “You’ll get the benefit of working your core while you handle your real work.”
The post The Only Equipment You Need for a Solid Shelter-at-Home Workout appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.
Saturday, March 28, 2020
Friday, March 27, 2020
7 Easy DIY Kitchen Projects You Can Tackle While You’re Self-Isolating
Visage/Getty Images
There’s nothing like spending an extended period of time at home to realize how badly your place needs a makeover.
So if you’re one of the millions of people starting to feel stir-crazy during all this social distancing, we’ve got the answer: Put all that extra time and energy into something worthwhile, like finally tackling some long-overdue home improvement projects.
We’ve shown you how to refresh your living room and your garage, but now we think it’s time to dive into the space in your home that’s probably seeing more traffic than ever before: your kitchen.
Whether you’re sick of your kitchen or just in need of a rewarding project, these ridiculously easy kitchen DIYs are sure to spice up your dull days at home.
1. Install a dish-drying rack
Photo by red.
Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a dishwasher. And if you’re sick of leaving handwashed dishes in a wet pile on the counter (or staring down that ugly plastic drying rack you’ve had for years), then it might be the perfect time for an upgrade.
“Installing a dish-drying rack is both decorative and functional,” explains interior designer Michael Helwig. “Installing one above the sink allows dishes to air and drip-dry, and the decorative aspect makes dishes look neat and orderly. It also makes dishes more easily accessible for daily use, [and] depending on the dishes themselves, can add more color and pattern to the space.”
Check out this video to get started.
2. Try a different window treatment (or none at all)
Photo by Marvin
Home decor trends are getting farther and farther away from curtains and window coverings—so unless you have a real attachment to yours, now’s a great time to ditch them for a more modern look.
“If you have beautiful architectural windows and trim, let your windows be the focal point in the kitchen,” suggests Amanda Amato-Scotto of AMA Designs & Interiors. “Rather than hiding the details with a valance or minicurtain, opt for openness—as long as the sun isn’t an issue.”
Not quite ready to let go of a window treatment altogether? Try a modern shade for a crisp look.
If you want to add even more interest, select a fabric shade in a pattern or alternatively, a natural, woven shade, for a textural look that allows light to filter in.
3. Install new pendant lights
Photo by TriplePoint Design Build
Overhead lights can be unflattering, so if you’re looking for an easy project that will really make your kitchen—and you—shine, you’ll definitely want to install a new set of chic pendant lights.
“Pendant lights add a focal point and can highlight the kitchen island or just add overall interest to the space,” Helwig says. “They’re also very functional, and add some directional light for an area like a prep space or an island.”
Keep it sleek with a clear glass pendant, which won’t add any unnecessary visual heaviness, Helwig suggests.
Check out this art-glass pendant from Lamps Plus to get started.
4. Remake the cabinet doors
Photo by Haven Design and Construction
Want to make your kitchen look instantly as if it belongs in Architectural Digest? Swap out your tired cabinet doors for ones with glass facing.
“Adding glass panes to cabinets allows you to merchandize the glassware and dishes,” Helwig says. “This concept works because it adds visual openness to the space, and it also provides a layered effect.”
Turn this into a workshop DIY, or shop Home Depot to find custom windowed cabinet doors.
5. Repaint your kitchen island to make it pop
Photo by Artistic Designs for Living, Tineke Triggs
Painting your cabinetry will easily get you a fresh look in the kitchen. But if you don’t have the fortitude to paint a whole room, why not just paint the island?
“If you have the patience and time, change the look and feel of your kitchen by painting your island a contrasting color,” Amato-Scotto says.
When selecting a color, keep in mind the color of the countertops and other surfaces in the kitchen. And before you commit to a shade, always view the test sample by standing it upright instead of looking down at the color, since that’s the way you would view it on your island.
Take a peek at this “Kitchen Color Inspiration Gallery” from Sherwin Williams to find your perfect color.
6. Show off your coffee mugs
Photo by New England Design Elements
Dylan Murray, who is housebound in New York, recently started tackling some small projects in his kitchen, to stay busy. One of his favorites? Adding under-the-cabinet hooks for coffee mugs.
It’s an easy upgrade that will clear space in your cabinets (to store all those dry goods you stocked up on!) and add personality to your kitchen.
“It’s super simple, but we love how they look,” he says.
Buy a set of these under-cabinet hooks to start showing off your favorite mugs.
7. Organize your pantry in style
Photo by NEAT Method Santa Barbara
Chances are that your pantry has seen a lot of extra traffic in these past few weeks, so why not take the time to give it a makeover?
To get started, clear out your pantry and start sorting like items together. Then comes the fun part—choosing how you’d like to organize it all.
“You can use woven baskets, clear bins, or a combination of both,” Amato-Scotto says. “Baskets are great for snacks and chips, as those items can’t stack or stand upright on a shelf. Clear bins and containers are good for items that you use frequently, so you can view at glance how much is left.”
Need some more containers to keep your pantry tidy? Check out the selection at the Container Store.
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Take Advantage of Free Disinfectants: How To Fill Your Home With Sunlight and Fresh Air
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Take a deep breath. Is the air inside your home stuffy? Don’t delay: Open a window and let fresh air and sunlight into your quarantined space. It won’t just help make your place smell better and feel fresher, it can also make your home healthier. And it may just help elevate your mood in these stressful times.
With a pandemic raging, the Centers for Disease Control recommends all households “increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning.” This call for fresh air is in addition to regular disinfecting and best hygiene practices to blunt the spike of COVID-19 cases.
Sunlight plus a cool breeze to assist in the fight against infection isn’t a new idea. There’s a history of fresh air and sunlight being used to control the spread of disease.
During the 1918 flu pandemic, “open air” treatments were used to treat sick soldiers and sailors, according to public health expert Richard Hobday. It remained a popular therapeutic method to treat infection through the 1950s.
In a recent article, Hobday explains the lessons learned from the 1918 flu outbreak: Over a century ago, medical officers discovered a “combination of fresh air and sunlight sees to have prevented deaths among patients; and infections among medical staff.” Hobday cites a report that indicates open-air treatment during the 1918 pandemic reduced deaths in hospitals from about 40% to about 13%.
In 2018, researchers led by Dr. Ashkan Fahimipour published findings in the Microbiome Journal that show sunlight does help kill bacteria in household dust. However, the doctor cautions there isn’t direct evidence sunlight is an effective deterrent for the spread of COVID-19.
“We do have scientific evidence that sunlight inactivates some microorganisms, including viruses,” says Fahimipour. “However, to my knowledge, data on the effects of sunlight on COVID-19 do not exist. That said, sunlight is a ‘free’ potential infection control measure that is easy to implement and unlikely to contribute deleterious effects—with emphasis on potential.”
So if the sun’s rays and fresh air are an easy way to boost the overall health of your living space, we wanted to focus on that crucial potential for beneficial effects We spoke with a few pros for tips on how to maximize airflow and sunlight in your home.
Open your windows, even if you have to adjust the thermostat
Whether you’re in a part of the country in the full throes of spring or still dealing with a deep freeze, think about opening your windows for fresh air and adjusting the thermostat to compensate. And yes, we know it’s expensive to run the heater with windows open, but letting the air circulate for a few hours a day can help improve the atmosphere inside your home.
Jeff Scroggins runs Creative Design Group, a design firm focused on high-end homes in Colorado’s ski resort towns. Even in the often-frigid Rockies, where air conditioning isn’t a standard feature, Scroggins says he has plenty of clients who crack open their windows year-round just for airflow. Even when temperatures dip below freezing, fresh air can offer benefits.
If you have outdoor space, use it
If you’re lucky enough to be quarantined at home and have a backyard, use that space for dining alfresco, grilling, or even an impromptu picnic.
And your backyard doesn’t need to be designed to the nines to enjoy it. Make the most of what you have right now.
“Pretend you are in a luxurious resort, and start your day by experiencing that first cup of coffee outside, listening to the birds,” suggests Susan Solliday, president of the Arizona North Chapter of American Society of Interior Designers. “Pull out chairs and tables suitable for outside, and place them in great morning spots.”
No yard? No problem. Designer and real estate agent James Judge says even the smallest outdoor spaces can be transformed into an inviting hangout spot.
“It can be as simple as a yoga mat on the patio or a cute bistro set that you order online,” Judge says. “An indoor and outdoor throw pillow can brighten up a space, too.”
Ditch heavy drapery for sheer curtains
Judge also recommends sheer curtains to lighten up your space. Now is not the time to live out your vampire fantasies—so consider replacing heavy drapes or thick fabric curtains to allow sunlight to stream in.
“With sheers you can still achieve privacy, but they are a great way to get natural light in, too,” says Judge.
There are several options for blinds and shades, like solar shades, which are designed to maximize natural light while cutting down on glare and blocking harmful UV, which could damage furniture or other valuables.
Blinds with larger slats let in the most light, but offer less privacy than those with smaller slats, which is important to consider for windows facing the street.
How you approach letting sunlight and fresh air in to your shelter-in-place lifestyle will be personal. It depends on your home, your climate, and your health. Whatever your situation, try to make every effort to keep your surroundings as healthy as possible. Opening a window is free, easy, and proven to boost your health. And that’s something we can all use right now.
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Tarek El Moussa Reveals a Kitchen Pantry Mistake To Never, Ever Make
HGTV; realtor.com
Tarek El Moussa may have gained fame (or infamy) bickering with ex-wife Christina Anstead on “Flip or Flop,” but on his latest show, “Flipping 101 with Tarek El Moussa,” he shows a whole new side of his personality: teaching new house flippers how to turn a profit.
But his most recent pupils, a husband and wife renovation team, seem strangely familiar—maybe because they’re bickering much like El Moussa and Anstead used to back in the day!
In this episode, titled “Broken Slab to Totally Fab,” Cesar and Sahar have had little success on their first few flips, making only about $10,000 a pop—which isn’t great.
Their problem is their poor decision-making skills and Cesar’s expensive taste. So, it’s up to El Moussa to help this couple find a common ground for their next flip, in Anaheim, CA.
Can he help this clashing couple learn to work together? Read on to find out which huge mistake the couple make in the kitchen, plus some take-home lessons that might help us improve our own homes, too.
A stone exterior looks dated today
HGTV
When El Moussa first sees Sahar and Cesar’s flip, he doesn’t get a good first impression.
The exterior of the home is covered in stone, and not only does it look dated, but it also wasn’t done well, El Moussa points out.
“They actually just took the existing stucco, put some cement on it, and then put the stone up,” El Moussa says, inspecting the exterior.
HGTV
Of course, the stone has to go, so they end up removing the stone to get a clean, fresh look. To finish it off, Cesar and Sahar end up going with a light gray paint color and a darker tone for the garage door and the window shutters.
The colors look perfect on this simple but charming home.
Give the fireplace a face-lift
HGTV
The fireplace is one of the first things people see when walking into this house, so El Moussa knows it has to look perfect.
Sahar says she plans to redo the fireplace facade with travertine, a stone that usually comes in a tan or cream color, but El Moussa disapproves of the idea. Travertine is an outdated fireplace material, and he knows buyers will want something fresh and modern instead.
El Moussa, Sahar, and Cesar go shopping and pick out a perfect gray and white slab for the fireplace. The only problem? Their team shatters it during installation! So, these flippers have to eat the cost of a new slab.
HGTV
In the end, the new slab goes up and it looks perfect in this living space. It’s elegant, modern, and bold with a dark gray accent wall behind it.
Don’t forget to factor in installation costs
Sahar complains that Cesar is always spending too much on their flips, so Cesar is careful to choose a flooring that is on sale, settling on a wood-tone tile.
The only problem is, installing tile floors can be expensive, and Cesar doesn’t account for the extra couple thousand dollars it will take to get the tile installed.
El Moussa points out that tile is nice, but laminate would have looked just as good and would have saved them money.
Choose a large kitchen over a large pantry
HGTV
Perhaps one of the biggest mistakes Sahar and Cesar make during this flip is failing to remove the pantry.
When El Moussa first sees those pantry walls jutting out into the kitchen, he knows that removing that structure will transform the kitchen, making it feel much larger and even allowing space for an island.
Unfortunately, Cesar and Sahar are so busy bickering about other renovation choices that they forget to get that pantry removed. With the tile flooring already done, they don’t have a choice but to work with the space they have.
HGTV
El Moussa recommends keeping the same kitchen peninsula, but pushing it out a couple of feet to allow more space in the prep area. He also recommends extending the backsplash and cabinets to the side of the pantry so the kitchen will look larger.
During the open house, potential buyers seem to like the improvements El Moussa suggested. But it’s clear that an open kitchen (without the pantry) would have been more impressive.
Doing all renovations at once will save money
HGTV
Usually, a backyard swimming pool can be a big perk for buyers—just not when they look as old as this one.
Cesar and Sahar know they have to improve the look of this pool, so they spend money on new plaster. Yet when the work is done, El Moussa inspects the results and is disappointed.
He points out that Sahar and Cesar missed a big opportunity to switch out the outdated pool tiles. As it is, the tiny tiles on the rim look outdated and dirty, but now that the plaster is done, it’s too late to switch these out without a big price tag.
Was Tarek El Moussa’s ‘Flipping 101’ tutorial a success?
Sahar and Cesar had bought the house for $560,000, and after spending $71,000 on renovations plus $51,000 on closing costs, commission, and interest, they have to sell the house at $682,000 to break even. They decide to list it at $749,000.
In the end, these flippers get an offer for $760,000. If this offer goes through, they stand to make a profit of $78,000. That’s much better than $10,000!
The post Tarek El Moussa Reveals a Kitchen Pantry Mistake To Never, Ever Make appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.
The Best Remote Working Essentials for Your Home Office Space
Geber86/Getty Images
Being cooped up in a home office all day may not seem like the best way to inspire productivity. But, with the right atmosphere and essential office supplies, you can stay on task and make the best of your work-from-home situation.
Accepting that your home office is the real deal is the first step—that includes having a morning routine that resembles the one you were accustomed to when you were commuting to an office.
“Even though you are in a remote environment, it’s super important to get up and dress the part,” says Nellie Akalp, CEO and founder of CorpNet, in Westlake Village, CA. “Shower, eat breakfast, brush your teeth, and get ready just as you would for your office. Doing all of that instead of staying in pajamas can really affect mood and productivity.”
Next, it’s time to spruce up your professional base of operations to get you going for a productive day of work.
Work-from-home basics
All pre-pandemic remote workers already know a home office isn’t an office until you bust out all of the essential office supplies, all of which can be ordered online.
“For my team who has all gone remote to get through this trying time, we’ve stocked them with some good old-fashioned supplies: pens, pencils, notepads, and sticky notes. I live for sticky notes!” says Akalp.
A stylish notebook can make taking notes during Zoom meetings or Google Hangouts more enjoyable. We love this one with a cheeky message ($12, Amazon), this elegant version with a leatherlike cover ($17.27, Amazon), and this glam one with a marble pattern on the cover ($15.99, Amazon).
Lighting is also important and can set the right mood for the workday and productivity. Akalp recommends setting up your remote office in a room where there is plenty of light so you don’t feel gloomy. Whip open those blinds and curtains!
“A desk lamp ($28, Target) or some other kind of warm lighting helps make the room feel more comfortable than an overhead light,” says Brie Weiler Reynolds, career development manager and coach at FlexJobs.
Work smarter
Photo by James Frank Construction Inc
If possible, you don’t want to just work from your laptop propped on your bed. You want your tech workspace to be comfortable and functional.
“A full-size keyboard and mouse are an ergonomic choice, and wireless versions ($49.99, Amazon) won’t clutter up your office space with more cords,” says Reynolds.
She also recommends a second monitor ($200, Best Buy) to provide relief to eyes and posture, which can help increase productivity.
“Ask your employer what they might be able to provide you,” says Reynolds.
And with everyone working virtually, conference calls are going to be more of a necessity to help keep workers connected (and sane). Friends, too. For situations where you need long videoconferences, you may want to go beyond the camera on your laptop and get an external camera, which frees up your workspace and provides better video quality at the same time ($70, Best Buy).
Reynolds recommends using headphones with a microphone ($16.55, Amazon) for conference calls, instead of holding your phone or using your computer’s microphone, which doesn’t offer the best audio experience for those on the receiving end. Bluetooth headphones or AirPods with a solid microphone ($159, Apple) will also work.
Happy office space
Since you’re going to be in your home office all day, you might as well make it your new 9-to-5 happy space. This means adding everything from freshly cut flowers to artwork to office plants ($8.99, Amazon).
“Greenery in your office has several benefits,” says Reynolds. “They act as a mood booster, an oxygen cleanser, and have some of the similar benefits as getting outdoors can have, including reduced stress, increased energy, and a feeling of calm.”
Since the home office will be your new normal for a while, Reynolds suggests taking advantage of the situation by decorating your office with anything that energizes, inspires, or gives you a happiness boost.
“Opt for lots of photographs of outdoor spaces, your friends and family, and other scenes that are important to you,” Reynolds says. Hanging photo holders ($25.99, Amazon) make it easy to display these cheerful scenes on the wall.
Take a break!
So now that you have your little home office up and running, don’t expect to spend all of your time with your head down. Working from home requires a lot of discipline, and that includes learning when to take a break. If you’re easily consumed by your work and need a little reminder to breathe every now and then, there’s an app for that.
Reynolds recommends Time Out, Self Control, or Workrave.
“Or just set the time on your phone to go off every hour, reminding you to get up a stretch,” she says.
The post The Best Remote Working Essentials for Your Home Office Space appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.
Thursday, March 26, 2020
The Property Brothers Make a Bold Bathroom Decision You Have To See
HGTV; realtor.com
Drew and Jonathan Scott are used to adding bathrooms to homes. That extra downstairs restroom is convenient and welcoming, especially for guests.
So why, on the latest episode of their HGTV show “Property Brothers: Forever Home,” are the brothers removing a second bathroom instead?
In the episode “Come On Over,” the brothers meet Stephanie and Chris, who’ve been in their Toronto home for 15 years. They love their stylish house, but it needs some finishing touches to make it more functional.
However, this simple renovation gets complicated when the brothers tear out the home’s second full bathroom, demo the practically new kitchen, and spend an unexpected $20,000 fixing the ceiling.
Did Drew and Jonathan mess up big-time on this house? Read on to find out about the method to the brothers’ madness. There’s a ton to learn!
Sometimes a bathroom is just in the wrong place
HGTV
Usually, a large second bathroom would be a big bonus in a home with kids, but Chris and Stephanie’s downstairs bathroom, which includes a shower and tub, is simply taking up too much space.
The family doesn’t like how the bathroom is impinging on the living room, taking up valuable space and opening right onto the dining table. Yuck!
Of course, the brothers agree that this bathroom simply isn’t working where it is, so they move it clear to the other side of the house, behind the kitchen.
HGTV
In the end, the bathroom is perfect. The new powder room (featuring just a sink and toilet) is an appropriate size for its new location, and it’s tucked away so that bathroom users don’t have to worry about proximity to the dinner table.
The brothers manage to keep the convenience of the downstairs bath, while improving its functionality.
HGTV
Porcelain tiles are friendly on the budget
With the new bathroom set, the brothers move on to the next renovation challenge.
Unfortunately, Jonathan finds some structural issues in the ceiling and stairs. He tells Stephanie and Chris that the structure isn’t safe, nor is it up to code.
The brothers need to fix this lazy craftsmanship, but the repair comes at a cost of $20,000. This is bad news for Stephanie and Chris, who were already at the top of their renovation budget.
To help ease the blow, Jonathan works to find less expensive substitutions for the updates in the renovation. One cost-efficient swap is switching out the bathroom floor tile from concrete to porcelain. The porcelain is much cheaper, and Jonathan knows it’s not a change Stephanie and Chris would mind.
When the bathroom is finished, the new tile looks beautiful—no one will ever notice it wasn’t the one Jonathan originally picked!
A new kitchen island offers lots of storage
One of the biggest renovation transformations happens in the kitchen, which is surprising, because Chris and Stephanie’s kitchen looked great even before Drew and Jonathan got started. The couple explain that they redid the kitchen nine years ago, so it still looks fairly modern.
Still, Stephanie admits that she’d really like to have an island, and in order to give her the kitchen of her dreams, the brothers will need to do some serious renovations.
As promised, they come through with a beautiful island, and Chris and Stephanie love it. It’s big and beautiful with a lovely quartz countertop, but the best part is the massive amount of drawer storage.
The drawers look stylish, and they hold a ton of kitchen supplies. It’s a great touch that will make it easy to keep this kitchen looking clean and uncluttered.
Floating shelves allow a backsplash to shine
With tons of drawer space on the island, Stephanie and Chris end up not needing a lot of cabinet space above their stove. All they need are a couple of shelves for easy access to plates and bowls.
HGTV
The brothers decide to install some sturdy floating shelves to finish the kitchen. These understated shelves are the perfect choice because not only are they functional, they’re also thin enough to show off the kitchen’s glamorous backsplash.
A perfect space to enjoy a beer
Both Chris and Stephanie work in the beer industry and love having drinks on hand for parties. When making plans for this renovation, the brothers offer to put a beer tap in the kitchen, instead of creating the powder room, but Stephanie and Chris decide that the bathroom is a more important feature.
Still, with all the extra costs to fix the ceiling and stairs, Jonathan and Drew want to do something special to make Stephanie and Chris feel more at home. So, they decide to surprise this family with some new outdoor furniture and a beer keg perfect for parties.
HGTV
The outdoor space looks amazing with the new furniture, and it’s clear that the tap will get plenty of use in the summer.
So, do the Scott brothers deliver?
Stephanie and Chris start out with a renovation budget of $125,000. Drew and Jonathan know they can make all the changes this family needs within this budget, but when Jonathan finds a $20,000 problem in the ceiling, that budget goes out the window.
Still, Jonathan finds small ways to cut costs, saving a total of $6,000 and bringing the total home renovation to just $139,000.
While Chris and Stephanie may be spending more than they originally planned, the brothers give them the best bang for their buck while they create their forever home.
The post The Property Brothers Make a Bold Bathroom Decision You Have To See appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.
Work From Home in Style With These Luxe Office Looks We Stole From Instagram
Povozniuk/Getty Images
While many of us might be used to ignoring our home office space—except when pilfering through unopened mail—COVID-19 has many of us scrambling to find a viable way to work from home.
To be fair, we’ve found some pretty creative solutions—using ironing boards, liquor cabinets, and more as makeshift desks. But as the days of self-isolation tick by, we’ve found ourselves wondering if these hacked-together work-from-home scenarios are sustainable.
(Hint: They’re not.)
If you’re already sick of shutting yourself into the smallest, most depressing space of the house, don’t despair—we’ve got the antidote. Like we do every week, we scouted the top trending decor on Instagram, this time with an eye on home offices. If you’re ready to give your workspace the extra boost it needs to get you through what may be some long months ahead, keep scrolling.
Snazzy ceiling
Who says statement designs are only for the walls? Not @carriedelanyinteriors.
“I adore snazzy ceilings,” says Kayla Goldstein of Kayla LLC. “Making your ceiling interesting is actually a super bold move, but always worth it. When you have a pattern or interest on the ceiling, that gives you the opportunity to leave your walls bare. This way, you’re focused on your work because your eyes are not distracted, but the overall room has a sophisticated look.”
Get the look: To lend your home office some nondistracting sophistication, check out this collection of ceiling murals from Rebel Wallpaper.
Colorful comfy chair
If you don’t have a comfy chair to plop down in, then for productivity’s sake, you’re going to need one. So why not make it a stylish choice, like this bright sunny chair featured by @jane_athome?
“Gone are the days that your home office has to have a black leather chair with traditional armrests,” says Cindi Jacobs of Simply Done. “The trend to have a comfy chair that speaks to you is hot, so why not try a brightly patterned one? We could all use a burst of energy during this difficult time, and a simple switch of your office chair can make all the difference in increasing your comfort physically and emotionally.”
Get the look: Get inspired to start your work day with this Perry upholstered office chair from World Market.
Fun and functional floating shelves
Whether your desk is in need of new shelving or just a new look, these fun and functional floating shelves featured by @the_stables_ should do the trick.
“These beautiful shelves are useful for organization and provide a modern feel—and by using the space above a desk to hold items, you decrease the footprint you’re taking up,” says Jacobs. “Open shelves bring a minimalist feeling to any space—which is perfect for the home office where you want your mind to be clear and at peace.” And isn’t that pretty much any home office?
Get the look: Snag a set of floating shelves from Wayfair.
Plenty of plants
If you’re experiencing cabin fever amid this springtime lockdown, then it might just be time to bring the blooming outdoors in with a few hearty houseplants like the ones in this post from @tatiana_home_decor.
“During this time of working inside, why not add a little nature to nurture your soul?” Jacobs asks. “There are several plants that still look healthy and vibrant even with minimal light and effort. If you have small space in your home office, consider adding a couple of small plants or even a hanging plant.”
Get the look: Get the perfect plants delivered to your door by placing an order with The Sill.
Globe desk lamp
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-Fin5ggYId/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Having a bit of extra light is really important—especially if you plan on spending long days cooped up in your home office. That’s just one of the reasons we fell hard for this gorgeous globe lamp featured by @vivianjohnsonphoto.
“Homes that have less square footage may not even have a dedicated home office space. Globe desk lamps add the ambient lighting that a smaller desk needs without being too overpowering, and they provide a welcome invitation to work and be surrounded with simplicity and beauty,” Jacobs says. “In today’s world we all need that encouragement.”
Get the look: Get that ambient glow going in your home office with this Sphere & Stem shade lamp from West Elm.
The post Work From Home in Style With These Luxe Office Looks We Stole From Instagram appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.