Transform Your Basement Into a Teen Hangout and Make the Whole Family Happy

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The ways we use our home evolve as our families do. One day you’re setting up a Pinterest-worthy nursery, and, after what seems like just a few years, you’ve got a teenager who just wants to spend time in his room texting with friends and blasting music late at night.

If you’re lucky enough to have a basement space, you may have the solution to your problems. The basement can offer teens the privacy they crave and space to hang out with their friends, while keeping the rest of the home more tranquil—especially desirable if you also have a baby or young children.

Here are some key considerations if you want to transform your basement into a teen-friendly space that will make the whole family happy.

Create a cool hangout that also brings in good ROI

Photo by Vicente Burin Architects

As the mother of four teenagers, Brie Fowler knows all about relegating the chaos to the basement.

“I have two teenagers living in our basement right now, and they love having their own bedrooms and shared bath down there. They’re always playing video games and watching movies with their friends,” says Fowler, a Realtor® with the Fowler Group at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Erie, CO.

In the past, basement remodels didn’t always give homeowners the best resale bang for their buck, but that’s changing, adds Fowler.

Today, having a bedroom-bathroom combo below definitely boosts property values, especially in the eyes of buyers with growing families.

“Today’s basements are very customized, and it’s a great idea to have a safe environment for your kids to sleep and relax,” says Fowler.

Make the necessary structural changes

Photo by Residents Understood 

Often, basement windows are below grade, so make sure the bedroom window is the right size for someone to exit in case of fire, and get permitting for any changes you make to ensure everything is done to code, suggests Kim Trouten, a Realtor and designer with Allen Tate Realtors in Charlotte, NC.

You also need proper ventilation.

“If you’ve got high moisture in a basement or changing temperatures because the heating and cooling isn’t quite as effective in the lower level, then you may need a dehumidifier,” Trouten says.

Get rid of any old drop acoustical-ceiling tiles and splurge on high-quality insulation to muffle the impromptu jam sessions and late-night gaming tournaments. Trust us, it’s worth every cent.

“It’s OK to have different ceiling heights, so if you have to drop it down in one section to accommodate ductwork or pipes, you can create intimate flex spaces or built-ins,” adds Trouten.

A basement doesn’t need to be a dim lair, either. Put in some recessed lighting and hang some mirrors strategically to brighten it up. And since teens are so device-dependent, install smart outlets throughout the space.

Plan for tons of storage space

Photo by Meadowlark Design+Build

Your basement might already serve as a catch-all for sporting equipment, musical instruments, school stuff, and more. So if you want to turn it into a more efficient space, you’ll have to corral that clutter.

If you’re planning to put up some walls to create a bedroom, build in as much closet space as possible, suggests Fowler.

Consider hanging an oversize barn door that can hide the mess when needed, and install plenty of shelves, cubbies, and hanging rods.

Swap out your teen’s childhood twin bed for a double or queen mattress set atop a platform with large drawers underneath to store clothing and shoes. Put up floating shelves and hooks so books, guitars, and collectibles stay off the floor. (Well, a parent can always hope, right?)

Carve out space for a full bathroom

We doubt your teen is going to want to traipse up and down the stairs to shower and use the bathroom, so having a full bathroom in the basement is a must, says Trouten.

“This bathroom does not have to be large, and from a reselling point of view, I wouldn’t spend a lot of money on it,” she says. “Make it as simple as possible, with a single-sink vanity and a shower. And make sure there are lots of hooks and good storage.”

And, of course, ventilation is also key in a bathroom.

Divide and conquer (the space, that is)

Photo by Anthony Slabaugh Remodeling & Design

The rest of the family should still be able to enjoy the basement, and setting up flex spaces that can serve multiple purposes will allow them to do that, says Trouten.

You can have a family-style room for watching TV and gaming, or just a recreational area for kids, that might share a bathroom with a bedroom. Just make sure the bathroom can be accessed from the bedroom without having to walk through the family room.

Still, Fowler warns against making the layout too choppy—most buyers still want an open concept, even in the basement.

“Teenagers love having a big, open space where you can put a pool table or a pingpong table, and throw in some beanbag chairs,” suggests Fowler.

Add some key pieces of furniture

Photo by Hammer & Hand  

Invest in a large sectional sofa—perhaps with a pull-out bed for buddies who want to spend the night—and pair it with an oversize ottoman that doubles as storage for blankets and pillows. Put up shelves to flank a wall-mounted TV, so video games, DVDs, and stereo equipment can be neatly stored.

If you have room, set up a refreshment corner with a minifridge stocked with snacks and drinks, and a floating counter with stools that can slide underneath when not in use.

The teen years aren’t all fun and games, though. Your teen will also need a study space, so provide a desk in a neutral material and hang a large bulletin board above that runs to the ceiling.

Elsewhere in the room, you can add punches of color with bedding, decorative pillows, and posters. Encourage your teen to personalize the space, like by printing a collection of selfies with friends that you can frame as collages and hang throughout the space.

Focus on the future, too

As parents know, kids grow up fast—plan your basement space in such a way that it can adapt when they move out, or if someone else moves in.

“Make sure whatever you do can shift and flex as your family changes or you move and somebody else moves in,” says Trouten. “Maybe it will someday function as an office, an exercise room, or an in-law suite.”

The post Transform Your Basement Into a Teen Hangout and Make the Whole Family Happy appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Cleaning Out Your Home Goods? Here’s Where To Donate Them Right Now

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After quarantining at home and finding ourselves with a bit more time on our hands, many of us have decided to partake in decluttering things in our homes that don’t “spark joy.” But as you may have guessed, the process is more complicated than it once was. You may find yourself wondering: During the coronavirus pandemic, are donation centers and thrift shops even open and accepting items?

At the height of the crisis, many services such as Goodwill and Salvation Army were forced to shutter. In hard-hit areas like New York City, it was virtually impossible to find a place to drop off your homewares. But now, as restrictions on retail locations have started to ease, charity and thrift stores are welcoming donations once again. That’s good news for those of us who have bags on bags of pre-loved stuff we no longer need.

Lauren Lawson-Zilai, senior director of public relations at Goodwill Industries International, says many of their locations are taking donations.

“The summer months at Goodwill stores tend to be busy, and the pandemic has only added to the inventory, with people having time to clean out their homes,” she says. 

Some states have started relaxing stay-at-home orders while others are reinstating them. With so much uncertainty, it’s probably best to call and visit a charity’s website or social media page before hauling your stuff over.

In the meantime, here’s where some of the most popular charities stand.

Where can you donate your stuff right now?

Charities say they always want and need more donations, and many are now ready to accept your homewares.

Lawson-Zilai says more than 2,900 Goodwill retail stores will soon reopen.

“Goodwill Southern California is gradually reopening our thrift stores,” says Marla Eby, director of marketing and media relations for Goodwill Southern California. “Our reopened stores also accept donations.”

Donors can visit the Goodwill Locator to find donation centers that are open in their area.

Vietnam Veterans of America, another charity that accepts donations, is also reopening its locations.

“We are open in the majority of areas now and will be fully operational by mid-July,” says Quentin Butcher, business director for the group.

Donors are advised to schedule a pickup now, Butcher says. Since resuming operations, they have been overwhelmed with donations.

“The wait times for us to schedule a pickup for donors is slightly longer at the moment, but we are accelerating our service capabilities daily,” he says.

“As states across the country continue to open, Salvation Army thrift stores are as well,” says Major Gary Wilson, commander of the Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Centers in the Southern territory. “In addition to accepting donations, the Salvation Army hopes that shoppers return to [shop in] the open stores.”

Wilson says it’s best to check with local Salvation Army donation centers to see current operating hours. Use this locator to find the nearest Salvation Army drop-off location or to schedule a pickup where available.

What are charities accepting?

With more charity doors reopening nationwide, organizations are accepting a wide range of tax-deductible donations, which can be detailed on local charity websites.

“We accept household items, small furniture, portable electronics, clothes, toys, and several other items,” says Butcher. “Our kind donors have enabled us to provide vital services for our veterans.”

Eby says Goodwill Southern California is accepting donations of both clothing and home goods.

“We suggest people call before they donate furniture, as a number of our stores have space limitations,” says Eby.

Wilson says items people commonly donate include clothing, furniture, appliances, household goods such as linens and appliances, and even automobiles. 

Charities are also accepting financial donations on their websites, which can go a long way in helping the community.

Should you wait to donate if you can?

While charity stores are open and accepting donations, some are choosing to wait out the process a bit. As the mechanics of donating during COVID-19 has changed, some places have implemented new safety procedures, including self-serve donation drop-offs, curbside drop-offs where donated items are retrieved from a donor’s trunk, and email receipts.

Butcher says if donors have had COVID-19 in their home, they should delay donating until they are deemed healthy.

“Our drivers and staff are extremely valuable to us, and we appreciate our donors keeping them safe,” says Butcher.

And if a store or donation center is not yet open, Eby asks that people hold on to their donations.

“We have experienced significant and costly problems with illegal dumping of goods at locations not yet open. Those items end up in the trash as they are exposed to the elements and no staff is present to accept donations,” she says.

Is it safe to shop at charity stores?

For those charity stores that are open, health and safety measures are in place—in addition to requiring social distancing and masks.

“We have a new contactless donation process to keep both donors and employees safe,” says Eby.

This includes limiting the number of customers inside, one-way aisles, Plexiglas partitions at registers, touchless payment options, and health checks for employees.

The post Cleaning Out Your Home Goods? Here’s Where To Donate Them Right Now appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Did You Plant Your Garden All Wrong? Try Succession Planting Instead

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Want your new vegetable garden to survive—and even thrive? You might need to start thinking hard about succession. And no, we’re not talking about corporate dynasties, or even the buzzy show on HBO. We’re talking about giving your sprouts room to grow.

In a nutshell, instead of putting all your seeds into the ground at once, succession planting involves staggering the sowing of crops every few weeks so you can harvest more manageably. This way, your garden will produce just enough veggies all season long, rather than a one-time explosion of zucchini that you’ll be forced to foist on your neighbors but will leave you squash-free for the rest of the summer.

Planting a succession of vegetables can actually be done in two ways. You can stagger your garden by planting the same seeds at regular intervals, or sow different seeds that mature at varied rates, switching from one to the next when the first has been harvested, explains Susan Brandt, the gardening professional at Blooming Secrets.

Newbie gardeners may want to try the former method and plant one veggie in succession.

“This way, it’s easier for homeowners to track what’s growing,” she adds.

Here’s more about the benefits of succession planting as well as what to sow and in which order so your table is full of tasty produce for weeks to come.

Succession planting benefits

Photo by Saucier + Flynn, Ltd. 

Have a small yard? Succession planting maximizes the space you have, as it keeps your veggie haul steady, notes Brandt. It’s especially useful in warm climates where you can take advantage of a long growing season. And if lawn space isn’t available, you can employ succession planting in a series of container pots on a deck or patio.

Keep in mind that succession planting isn’t just for vegetable patches.

“You can use this method for growing flowers such as gladiolus—just plant them every two weeks, and you’ll have flowers for a good part of the summer, rather than just once,” Brandt says.

When to start a succession garden

Photo by Jonathan Raith Inc. 

Spring and early summer are ideal times to use the succession planting technique, say the pros.

“Start earlier in the season with cool-weather crops, move to summer veggies when it’s warmer, and then in the fall you can return to your same cool-weather picks or try different ones,” says Brandt.

Just be sure your options have enough time to grow from seeds or small plants to mature veggies at harvest time, adds JT Wilkinson, maintenance care manager at FormLA Landscaping.

Succession planting basics

Photo by Arterra Landscape Architects

Knowing how soon plants grow to maturity—and produce fruits and vegetables—is key to timing your succession garden just right. For example, here are the steps for planting spinach (or other leafy greens) in succession:

• Plant two small rows from seed, which will grow to maturity in about 30 to 45 days.
• At the 14-day mark, when the first crop has sprouted nicely, you can plant two more rows of spinach seed and weed the first rows as needed.
• At the 30-day mark, pick the larger leaves from your first rows (make salad!), and weed the second rows as needed.
• In two more weeks, the first crop will have mostly petered out, but the second wave will be nearly mature and ready to harvest. At this point, you can plant two more rows of spinach in the original rows, and repeat the whole process.

Succession gardening also takes the seasons into account, based on which plants flourish in certain temperatures. Here’s a look at what to plant first, second, and so on.

Best vegetables to plant in the spring

Photo by Sparrow Landscaping LLC 

Leafy greens go into the ground first, including lettuce, spinach, and chard.

“You can also sow carrots, radishes, and beets at this time and these, along with green onions, are great for planting in multiple successions or sneaking them in between the plantings of other crops,” says Brandt.

“Green beans and some peas live a shorter life and stop producing after a few weeks of harvesting—and in the case of carrots and radishes, you’re pulling out the whole plant when you pick them so you need to continually sow,” she adds. For these root veggies, follow the same planting schedule outlined for lettuce above.

Best vegetables to plant in the summer

Photo by Pamela Crawford & Associates

Around June in much of the country, you can transition from your spring crops to summer crops, planting in the spaces where those peas and salad greens used to be.

Next up are tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers, peppers, and squash, says Wilkinson.

In September, cool-season root veggies (beets, turnips) can be planted next.

“You can also go back to leafy greens in the fall, just as you did in spring,” says Brandt.

Remember, summer vegetables will produce multiple fruits, though they may also take a break if the weather is super steamy, then they’ll continue until the frost kills them.

Why succession crops require fertilizer

Photo by Danielle Sykes 

Fertilizing is key when it comes to succession planting as multiple rounds of sowing, weeding, and harvesting can do a number on your soil.

“You have to be careful if you grow lots of crops in the same space, since this technique uses up a lot of nutrients in the soil,” notes Brandt.

You can mitigate this by fertilizing plants so they get the right vitamins and adding compost to your garden between plantings.

The post Did You Plant Your Garden All Wrong? Try Succession Planting Instead appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

7 DIY Wall Projects for the Home You Should Know How To Do

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Lately, weekly meal prep, work meetings, and kids’ activities have all been taking place inside the same four walls. So you might have caught yourself staring at one of those walls and wondering how you can upgrade its look and improve your view.

Fortunately, there are loads of wall projects out there for DIY-savvy homeowners looking to put a new spin on their decor. And DIY jobs are a smart twofer: You’ll feel accomplished by completing a task with your own two hands, and you’ll save money—and who couldn’t go for that right now?

To help you get started with some wall-themed home improvements, here are seven ways to fix up and beautify your surroundings, including the tools you’ll need and the time it’ll take. What are you waiting for?

1. Patch a wall

Photo by Lauren Shadid Architecture and Interiors

Unsightly holes from your kid’s posters and other random wall hangings need to be addressed pronto.

“Patching drywall to clean up your walls takes just a few minutes,” says Hunter Macfarlane, a Lowe’s project expert. “All you have to do is scrape away loose debris, fill the hole, and then smooth the area once it’s dry.”

Time for project: A few minutes to patch, plus some drying time (up to two hours)

Tools required: Spackle, taping or putty knife, old rag, sandpaper, and, if you plan to repaint the wall, paint supplies (brush, roller, pan)

2. Install a shelf

Photo by Four Brothers Design + Build 

Whether you’re embracing the red-hot trend of open shelving or you just need a single slab in the bathroom to hold a few personal items, hanging a shelf is a quick and easy task.

“Hanging shelves is fairly easy because you can do it without the assistance of a second person and it should take just a few minutes per shelf,” says Aimee Bahs, brand manager at Mr. Handyman.

Time for project: Less than 30 minutes

Tools required: Shelf kit (bracket, hardware), power drill, level, pencil

3. Hang a picture

Photo by L. Weatherbee Design Studio 

Perk up your walls with a single piece of art, or curate a gallery of photos you already own. Either way, you’ll create a stunning tableau that costs very little except your time.

“Hanging a picture is a rather fast task, but it takes some prep work, especially if you cut out frame sizes from craft paper and tape them to the wall to plan the look,” says Macfarlane.

“Depending on the frame type, the supplies can vary. A single nail or screw usually works for smaller pictures, while heavier artwork requires an anchor screw,” says Bahs.

Time for project: A few minutes per picture, one or two hours for a gallery wall

Tools required: Stud finder, level, claw hammer, nails, hanging wire, D-rings

4. Paint an accent wall

Photo by Scott Basile Photography 

Painting all your walls is definitely a worthy DIY project, but picking just one to highlight is a fine place to start. An accent wall infuses a space with a shot of much-needed color while adding dimension and, in some cases, highlighting an architectural feature like an archway, exposed brick, wall paneling, or angled ceiling.

Time for project: A full day, plus overnight drying time

Tools required: Plastic dropcloth or old sheet, painter’s tape, buckets for paint, roller, trays, angled brushes

5. Hang wallpaper

Photo by Martha O’Hara Interiors 

Hanging wallpaper may seem like a job for professionals, but it’s actually a DIY project that many homeowners can take on. And it’s made even easier if you use peel-and-stick wallpaper. But for the regular kind, keep in mind that you’ll need a helper. (It’s tough to accomplish solo, says Macfarlane.)

“Preparing to install pre-pasted wallpaper can be the most time-consuming part, but the length of time really depends on the size of your room and whether there are a lot of ‘interruptions’ to the wall (like windows, doors, and outlets), which can slow the process,” notes Rebecca Breslin, design manager for Wayfair Professional.

Time for project: A weekend

Tools required: Dropcloth, ladder, paint scraper, measuring tape, utility knife, scissors, paint roller or brush, smoothing brush, pan, and adhesive paste if your paper isn’t pre-pasted

6. Add crown molding

Photo by Stephen A. Rudnicki Designer LLC 

Want to add glamour and elegance to your room’s walls? Decorative molding is your go-to for this DIY project. And even if you don’t know your dentil molding from egg and dart, all you need is a quick stop at a home improvement store for supplies.

“If you have a fairly standard room shape and you have a handle on cutting and installing the pieces, installing crown molding is pretty straightforward,” says Breslin. “Simply follow the line of your ceiling and match the next piece to the previous one.”

Time for project: A day

Tools required: Stud finder, power drill, handsaw, tape measure, level, sandpaper, crown molding pieces, paint or stain to match

7. Repair stucco

Photo by Tate Studio Architects 

Don’t forget about your exterior walls, especially cracks in stucco. Fix them up fast, and you’ll enhance your curb appeal. A stucco pro will charge you hundreds of dollars, but you can apply new stucco to flawed patches by yourself for much less.

Time for project: 1 hour per patch

Tools required: Work gloves, eye protection, chisel, hammer, patching compound or premixed stucco, notched trowel, finishing trowel, tool for texture such as a sponge, and ladder if the flaw is out of reach

The post 7 DIY Wall Projects for the Home You Should Know How To Do appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

How To Build a Kid's Car Wash Sprinkler

Summer’s 5 Hottest Decor Trends Will Have You Staying at Home in Style

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OK, we’ll admit that summer 2020 has been a bit of a buzzkill so far: Between derailed travel plans and being forced to spend more time cooped up inside (for the fourth month in a row, and counting), it’s not exactly the new decade we all dreamed of.

But we’re glass-half-full kind of people. And the silver lining of all this time at home means more time to decorate and transform our space into an oasis we’re almost glad to be cooped up in.

Ready to ditch the quarantine clutter and rid your home of those stale spring looks? We consulted with designers from coast to coast about the hottest home decor that’s trending right now. These five looks are sure to transform your space into one of those lush, tropical locales you’ll be missing this season, and make long days at a home feel a little sweeter.

1. Curved sofas

Photo by Tara Bussema

Nothing speaks to kicking back and relaxing quite like one of these oversize, curved couches.

“A curved couch is a symbol of comfort,” says Colin Haentjens, interior designer for The Knobs Company. “Without 90-degree corners, the only sharp parts of the couch are removed. And the shape is reminiscent of a bean-shaped swimming pool—so you can imagine diving right in to beat the heat.”

Snag your very own curved couch with this Ayva curved love seat from Wayfair.

2. Raw materials

Photo by IL Decor 

Finished furniture is out this season, and being replaced by something much more rustic and natural-looking.

“The use of raw materials isn’t new, but its resurgence this summer speaks to a desire to incorporate natural textures and materials into the home,” says design blogger Jaime Huffman of the Charleston Blonde. “Raw materials, like furniture made from live-edge wood, are a way to have one-of-a-kind items in your space, and they take on a timeless quality that will suit any design style.”

Shop the perfect live-edge piece for your home by browsing this collection on Etsy.

3. Floral wallpaper

Photo by Office of Architecture 

Flowers aren’t just blooming in the garden this year, as more and more designers flock toward the floral wallpaper trend.

“From large and abstract to intricate and botanical—every kind of flower imaginable is showing up on walls,” says Huffman. “Done right, floral wallpaper can transform your space into one of color and creativity, and works great in small spaces like bathrooms or as an accent wall in a larger space.”

Breathe new life into your interiors this season with this collection of floral and botanical wallpaper from Joss & Main.

4. Canopy beds

Photo by Chango & Co. 

Canopy beds aren’t just for exotic rentals—they’ll also give an instant (and modern) boost to your current bedroom style.

“Canopy beds transform a bed into a private, tranquil space for rest, and create quite the atmosphere you want in a master bedroom,” says Huffman. “Especially for the summer season, more modern, simple-style canopy beds recall the look of a poolside cabana, turning the bedroom into a true oasis.”

Plus, there are a wide variety of canopy styles; you can choose from a more traditional, romantic four-poster look, or opt for something more modern and linear to fit your own individual taste.

Upgrade your bedroom with some much-needed cabana vibes by shopping this Moyers Profile canopy bed from Wayfair.

5. Island carts

Photo by Houzz  

While you might not be jet-setting to any islands this summer, that doesn’t mean you can’t upgrade your own island—that is, the one in your kitchen. While many kitchen designs include a stationary island, we love the added flexibility of these trending island carts.

“An island instantly transforms a kitchen, adding functionality, storage, and counter space,” says Huffman. “Add wheels, and the opportunities expand!”

An island on wheels adds extra value in a small kitchen space, so you can move it to where it’s needed most, she adds.

“After so many months spent inside, many people are looking for ways to refresh their space,” Huffman says. “And an island on wheels makes a huge impact without having to put in the planning and construction necessary for a stationary island.”

Find your perfect island cart on Overstock.

The post Summer’s 5 Hottest Decor Trends Will Have You Staying at Home in Style appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

8 Ways To Keep Your House Organized and Spotless With Pets

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We love our pets, but we don’t love the damage they do to our homes. Whether they relieve themselves on your sofa or emit funky odors, fur babies can foil your best efforts to keep your place looking and smelling its best.

Yet having an animal or two in residence doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to living in filth. Often, a few pet-friendly purchases and habits can keep things under control. Take fabric, for instance. Some materials hold on to a stink longer than others.

“And once an odor soaks in to an absorbent fiber, it can be very difficult to extract,” points out Maeve Richmond, an organizing and cleaning professional and founder of Maeve’s Method.

Don’t let your pets rule the roost! Here are eight tips for keeping your home clean and organized when an animal is in residence.

1. Groom on a schedule

Photo by Designs Dell’Ario Interiors 

A clean pet can mean a cleaner, fresher house, especially if you groom it consistently (every month or so as needed). And if you don’t have a dedicated room where you can lather up your pup, carve out a corner in an existing space like the laundry area.

2. Invest in attractive storage

Choose from three sizes in either round or rectangle shapes.

Amazon

Katie McCann, the home and office organizing pro at Haven, recommends good-looking bins and baskets for pet gear, since owning a pretty container for toys may make you more inclined to keep things neat and organized. The material on this pick ($11.99, Amazon) wipes clean, and the chic gray shade allows it to blend into the background, with just a subtle paw print as a clue to its use.

3. Keep kibble fresh

Cute wheels make moving this around the kitchen a breeze.

The Container Store

A folded-over top on your cat’s food bag means the scent of turkey delight will waft through the house—and who wants that?

Instead, McCann picks these smart-looking containers ($39.99 and up, Container Store) that come in two sizes for your pet’s chow. There’s also a scoop included so you don’t have to donate your half-cup measure at feeding time.

“And rather than shlep home giant bags of food, use a service like Instacart or Chewy to schedule pet deliveries,” she adds.

4. Pick pet-friendly furniture fabric

If your pets tend to lounge on your couch or other spots meant for humans, over time the spots will start to smell like your pets—and certain fabrics absorb odors more than others.

“Natural fabrics like cotton and linen hold more odors,” explains Richmond. A better bet for pets? “Man-made materials like polyester, polypropylene, and olefin.”

If you must stick with cotton or linen, get a slipcover so you can easily pop it into the washing machine.

“You can also mask the odor with a cleaning agent like Febreze,” adds McCann.

5. Give the sofa a scrub

Another benefit of couches made from synthetic materials? They can withstand a light bath.

“One cushion at a time, spritz your sofa with distilled water, followed by a drop of dish soap and then use a soft-bristled brush to create a lather,” says Richmond. Wipe away excess liquid and soap with a clean cloth.

If your couch has a cotton or other natural fabric on it, resist the temptation to clean with water as the material may shrink.

“If your cotton sofa is stinky or dirty, a professional clean is worth the effort. A good piece of furniture like this can last 10 or 15 years if it’s well-taken care of,” Richmond notes.

6. Toss pet toys in the wash

Just the way you change dish towels in the kitchen every few days, throw some of the cat’s fabric mice in the washing machine, or your dog’s chewy toys in the dishwasher. If you get in the habit of cleaning these playthings, they will build up fewer odors over time.

7. Pick the best vacuum for pet hair

This vacuum is designed to pick up pet hair.

Rakuten

A vacuum that effectively picks up pet hair is a lifesaver in a home with pets. And the Dyson Ball Animal Upright Vacuum ($224.99, Rakuten) is designed for households with pets. This device sports shorter, stiffer bristles than usual, which provide better suction to remove stubborn pet fur. It also has a turbine that resists hair tangling and a HEPA filtration system, which captures allergens in the machine rather than releasing them back into the environment. Plus it comes with a five-year warranty.

8. Consider washable or replaceable flooring

This rug’s pad is made from recycled plastic bottles.

Amazon

Let’s face it: Only certain messes can be vacuumed up. Other, wetter accidents require a trip through the washer. For these, Richmond votes for carpets like the polyester-based ones from Ruggable, above ($89.99, Amazon).

“No stain or smell is a match for man-made fibers,” she says.

But for truly disastrous episodes that make you want to cry, pick floor covering you can actually replace. FLOR carpet tiles start as low as a couple of dollars per square foot, and are easy to lay down and then quickly pick up if you need to toss them out and start again.

The post 8 Ways To Keep Your House Organized and Spotless With Pets appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

6 Costly Mistakes To Avoid With Your Utility Bills While Staying at Home During the Pandemic

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With vacations put on hold and COVID-19 cases continuing to rise even as many states work to slowly reopen, it’s safe to say that many of us will be spending more time than usual at home this summer. And that means using more electricity and water than normal.

That’s why we asked the energy experts to share the most costly mistakes that lead to sticker shock with your utility bill. Here are six errors you’ll want to avoid to keep your summer bills in check.

1. Leaving windows unlocked and uncovered

Sure, blasting the AC will keep your place cool this summer. But if all that cold air is just leaking out, all you’ll have is a partly cool space and a huge electric bill.

Keeping cool air in, however, goes beyond simply closing your windows and doors, says Brad Roberson, president of Glass Doctor.

“That’s not a proper seal,” he says. “You must also lock windows and doors to create an airflow seal.”

Another thing to watch out for is letting the hot sun melt away all your cold air. For this, Roberson recommends installing UV-rated window film or even a set of awnings.

“Certain window films can provide protection from both UVA and UVB rays, shielding the interior of your home from sun exposure,” says Roberson. “Awnings are also good—providing some shade without obstructing views.”

2. Ignoring draft drain

Another way to quickly lose the cool indoor air this summer is by letting it leak through gaps in your home’s construction.

In fact, drafts can waste up to 30% of a home’s energy, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. But homeowners can reduce this impact, says Joshua Miller, vice president of technical training at Rainbow International Restoration.

For instance, Miller recommends caulking and applying weatherstrips on doors and windows with small gaps. For larger openings around baseboards and door frames, he recommends using foam sealant—or, as a last-minute solution, a towel.

“If you need an immediate solution, a rolled towel along the base of drafty doorways or windows can get the job done without an added expense,” Miller says. “Though it’s worth pointing out that this isn’t the most effective method.”

3. Forgetting to replace AC filters

AC units aren’t just working hard to keep your home cool, they’re also pumping all that cold air through a filter.

“The job of an AC filter is to remove debris from the air before it enters your system,” says Marla Mock, vice president of operations for Aire Serv. “When things clog up, the unit will not cool as well and, in fact, will work much harder and use more energy—causing a substantial rise in the electric bill.”

Dirt in the filter can also cause significant damage to your air conditioner, and even put unnecessary strain on the motor. The best way to avoid this series of unfortunate events is to  replace your air filters monthly.

4. Neglecting your pipes

Check your pipes for leaks this summer if you’d like to save on your water bill. Leaks can happen for a variety of reasons—especially when your outdoor hoses and sprinkler systems are frequently running and putting extra stress on the pipes.

“Even just a small leak can waste a huge amount of water every day,” says Ryan Thompson of Plumbing Informer. “Apart from saving you money on the water bill, it can also prevent water damage, which can end up being very expensive.”

You should also check your pipes’ insulation.

“People waste a lot of water waiting for showers and sinks to become hot,” says Thompson. “One way to reduce the amount of time it takes the water to heat up is to insulate your hot water pipes.”

Check out this tutorial for more details.

5. Leaving devices plugged in

We all do it—run the vacuum, make some toast, or charge our devices—and then just leave everything plugged in.

“Just because you turned the device off, doesn’t necessarily mean it stops using electricity,” says Cisco DeVries, CEO of OhmConnect. “Things like cable boxes, game consoles, microwaves, coffee makers, space heaters, phone chargers, and even powered toothbrushes can all continue to draw electricity when turned off.”

In fact, cable boxes and DVRs can cost an extra $96 per year when left plugged in, while coffee machines can run up to an additional $156 per year, DeVries says.

The solution is to get a smart power strip—or several.

“Smart plugs or smart power strips will detect when you’re no longer using a device and turn off the power supply,” he says.

6. Not having a thermostat

You and your family might be winging it when it comes to maintaining comfortable temps indoors, but we’re here to tell you you’ll save on your bills (and all the temperature-related family feuds) by just installing a thermostat.

“Smart thermostats save you up to 10% to 20% on cooling bills annually,” says Mock. “They can also help your family reduce its environmental impact, boosting efficiency via energy usage data and tips.”

Easily installed with mobile apps, which allow for remote temperature control, these smart thermostats will help you regulate your home’s temp, and keep all those pesky electric bills in check.

The post 6 Costly Mistakes To Avoid With Your Utility Bills While Staying at Home During the Pandemic appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Picnic Table Hacks: Kids' Activity Zone

6 Black-Owned Etsy Shops To Support During Your Next Decor Binge

Bespoke Binny / Nossboss / Aishea Home / Lovely Earthlings via Etsy

Etsy has long been a top destination to shop for unique, handmade decor, but it’s easy to get lost in the pages and pages of clickable products. So we wanted to take this moment to showcase the work of some of our favorite Black artists.

From African-inspired textiles to handcrafted farmhouse furniture, we’re pretty sure this list has something for everyone. Without further ado, here are six amazing Black-owned Etsy shops you can support during your next decor binge.

1. Macrame magic

Pink Lady wall hanging

Etsy

Macrame has long been making a comeback in home decor, but you’d be hard-pressed to find another collection of whimsical designs quite like the ones by Nosse Ovienmhada of NossbossCreations.

With unique potted-plant hangers and wall art, these pieces are hard to pass up—especially if you love macrame as much as we do.

“Fiber art adds natural texture and earthy accents to any space,” Ovienmhada says. “It’s a great way to balance hard lines and surfaces. I hope to stimulate the senses and create a story with my art—every room needs a story, no detail is too small.”

Have a particular plant you’d like to feature in a macrame hanging? You’re in luck, because Ovienmhada also takes custom orders.

2. Hand-poured candles

Cactus flower and jade candle

Etsy

You can never have too many candles, especially when they look like the ones created by Tina Walter of Soulful Bliss Spa & Boutique.

With scents like cactus flower and jade, mimosa, and raspberry sangria, these candles are also topped with thoughtful details, including flower petals and crystals.

“The crystals I top my candles with are all for grounding, uplifting, and removing negativity,” Walter says. “I wanted them to be as beautiful as they are relaxing and soul-lifting—to bring a level of whimsy and warmth to any part of the home you choose to place it in.”

Looking to bring even more spa vibes into your home? Walter also makes body butters and bath bombs.

3. Bohemian dream textiles

White and black bogolan fabric

Etsy

If you have an obsession with bohemian textiles, you’re going to need to brace yourself for this collection of mud cloth throws, wall hangings, and pillow covers created by Kedji Makoli of AisheaHOME.

Typically, when searching for a unique mud cloth throw, you might find one or two colors and patterns—and often they’re high-priced vintage pieces. But at Makoli’s shop, these beauties are made from scratch using authentic textiles, coming in a wide variety of patterns and color palettes.

“We like textiles that tell stories, those that have been made using ancestral techniques, those that sustain and unite communities,” says Makoli. “The textiles are like witnesses of our trips, of the endless hours in markets looking for that piece that thrills us.”

We promise you won’t need that long in this Etsy shop to find something you love.

4. Earthy art prints

“Hammock Time” print

Etsy

Looking for something fresh to adorn the walls of your place? Look no further than these art prints created by Karina Daniel Parris out of her Louisville, KY, studio LovelyEarthlings.

Parris has always been drawing, but decided to put some downtime to good use by taking her art to the next level and sharing it with the world.

“Because I lived in these metropolitan cities—like Atlanta, New York, and Miami—you can see why my art includes tropical weather, fashion, and diversity,” she says.

With a range of prints and greeting cards featuring women set in lush green landscapes, these designs might just be the perfect summer vibes your place needs.

5. Farmhouse-inspired furnishings

Rustic coffee table

Etsy

Nothing tugs at our heartstrings quite like a gorgeous piece of furniture. But what we love about the tables and decor designed by Ntebo Archer of ArcherHomeDesigns is that they’re actually made with your family in mind.

“We have three boys, so for us it’s important that furniture serves the family and not the other way around,” Archer says. “Our pieces are rustic and well-worn so that life can be enjoyed without worrying about how the coffee table is holding up.”

Add to your farmhouse collection with tables that won’t mind a little spilled lemonade this summer.

6. Vibrant lights

African wax print drum lampshade

Etsy

If you’ve been trying to decide how to upgrade from your boring lampshade, you’ll find more than one solution in the London-based studio of Natalie Manima, also known as BespokeBinny.

These African-inspired lampshades, pillows, oven mitts, and table sets are all made using wax-print fabric and come in a variety of vivid colors and designs. And if you were worried about ordering from across the pond—don’t be. Despite the distance (and the pandemic), Manima still ships worldwide in just three to four business days.

The post 6 Black-Owned Etsy Shops To Support During Your Next Decor Binge appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Flower Garden or Vegetable Garden? You Needn’t Choose

Willowpix / Getty Images

To my husband, a garden means a sort of outdoor refrigerator, ideally stocked with enough fresh vegetables to rival a Whole Foods.

But to me a garden is a design element that welcomes you home. If you’re lucky enough to have a front yard, it’s the best kind of mixed metaphor. It’s a canvas you get to paint with colors that go off like time-lapse fireworks as seasons change.

“What about planting some Big Boy tomatoes over there?” my husband asked the other day, gesturing grandly toward a spot where my heirloom gladiolas were in bloom.

“Sweetheart,” I explained gently for the kazillionth time, “we already have an edible garden.”

“Ha,” he said, in a tone that struck me as pointed. “That sliver of shade next to the driveway?”

“Darling,” I tried again. “We grew great strawberries there last year.”

“Six strawberries,” he said. “We need a real victory garden. We need to grow more food.”

Victory gardens are in vogue this year. Again.

“Whenever the country goes through uncertain times, people decide they want to grow their own food,” said Charlie Nardozzi, a consultant for the National Gardening Association. “We’ve seen this trend before, both in world wars and in economic downturns.”

This spring, with many people out of work and sheltering at home, growers and online retailers nationwide have reported an increase in sales of edible plants, seeds and garden products, Mr. Nardozzi said.

Some people are doing it to save money, or because they have time on their hands. But the biggest reason people are yearning to grow food is “it makes them feel they are doing something to contribute to their own sense of security.”

Unfortunately, it’s hard to be a farmer.

“One reason I don’t do it is my biggest crop was six strawberries,” I confessed to Mr. Nardozzi. “I’m basically a failure as a farmer.”

“That’s a common feeling and one reason a jump in interest in food gardening is usually temporary,” Mr. Nardozzi said. “After a year or two, people give it up because they weren’t successful.”

“But my husband is really pushing the victory garden idea,” I said.

“If you want to be successful, don’t set unreal expectations,” Mr. Nardozzi said. “Start small.”

Brilliant—instead of a victory garden, we would have a partial victory garden.

It was a relief to hear I wouldn’t have to sacrifice my roses to rows of radishes. But what’s the best way to start a partial victory garden?

I called urban gardener and activist Ron Finley, whose own edible garden in South Central Los Angeles is so bountiful it spills from his backyard to the narrow strip of land between the sidewalk and the street. (A few years back, local officials told him it was illegal to plant there, but Mr. Finley won that fight.)

I figured anyone who could get bananas and artichokes to grow in a curb of hard-packed dirt could solve my problem.

“Don’t worry, most people don’t know anything about gardening,” Mr. Finley said. “Last week I gave someone a fava bean and he actually said, ‘If I plant this bean, what will it grow into?’ I said, ‘It’s a fava bean, what do you think it will grow into—a pineapple?’ ”

Mr. Finley recommends planting vegetables and flowers together. “It looks good, and it tastes good,” he said. “The bottom line is everything you eat that comes out of the soil—from figs to peaches to zucchini—starts as a flower. Everything is a blossom before it becomes food.”

Co-planting edibles with ornamentals has been popular for centuries, dating to Elizabethan times, when villagers who were allotted tiny plots crammed in enough food, flowers and medicinal herbs to sustain their families. Thus was born the rambling cottage garden.

Today, planting a cottage garden is still one of the easiest ways to grow food, said Marty McGowan, a garden designer and organic farmer on Nantucket. Mr. McGowan said his favorite formula when he designs gardens is to plant a mix of 30% vegetables and 70% flowers.

“A true cottage garden might have tomato plants growing in cages, which I think of as structural enhancements, or arugula with little blue flowers at the front of a border,” Mr. McGowan said.

He also told me I won’t have to replace any flowers to grow food: “Just add edibles here and there. Fennel’s feathery foliage looks great, and you can snip it when you cook.”

For people without gardens, Mr. McGowan suggests planting beans in a container and letting them grow up a trellis or over a balcony railing: “It adds romance.”

After I got off the phone, I found my husband in the front garden, eyeing my roses.

“This would be a great spot for watermelons,” he said wistfully.

“I agree,” I said.

He looked at me suspiciously.

“You’re willing to sacrifice flowers for food?” he asked.

“We won’t need to,” I said. “We’ll just train the vines to grow along the edge of the path.”

“Sounds pretty,” he agreed. “And six watermelons is a lot.”

The post Flower Garden or Vegetable Garden? You Needn’t Choose appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

5 Dumb Ways You Could Kill Your Houseplants This Summer

Westend61 / Getty Images

Many plant owners assume that summer is a breeze in terms of plant care. After all, there’s plenty of sun, so there’s little to worry about in such prime conditions, right?

Wrong. Even if your plants are indoors, summertime brings particular risks to houseplants that even the most well-meaning plant owners might overlook.

“You have to be mindful of [summer] conditions,” says Casey Godlove, creative director at PlantShed in New York City. For instance, this season can bring changes in lighting and temperature that require an adjustment to winter routines of watering, pot placement, and more.

Not sure what you might be doing wrong? Here’s a look at some of the most common mistakes that could kill your houseplants this summer.

1. Moving plants outside

On warm, sunny days, you want to spend plenty of time outside, especially after being cooped up all winter. Plant owners may want the same for their plants—but moving indoor plants outside during the summer can be a shock for them.

“One of the most common issues that happens around this time of year is that people take their plants that have been inside all winter and, on the first warm day, they take them outside to get lots of sunshine,” says Will Creed of Horticultural Help, who offers virtual plant care advice and education.

Since the plant hasn’t been properly acclimated to the change in light and temperature, “typically, what happens is the plants burn up,” Creed says. Yikes!

“Leaf scorch,” as it’s called, isn’t a fire of course, but the leaves will turn brown, since they’re basking in full-on summer sun and the plant’s roots may not be able to deliver enough water to keep them cool.

So, if your plant’s doing fine indoors, don’t bother moving it. Or if you prefer to take your plants outside, acclimate them slowly. If it doesn’t get much light indoors, place it in a similar spot outdoors with indirect sunlight, and make sure the temperature never drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, since plants may not survive a sudden cold snap.

Outdoor plants also might attract insects, which could invade your home once you bring the plants back inside. Plants that live indoors most of the time usually attract few pests, but if you do see bugs lingering on your plants, spray the leaves and stems with a mild soap and water mixture to get rid of them.

2. Moving plants around

Moving plants around too much is another mistake plant owners make, Godlove says. Instead, research how much sunlight a plant needs and decide on the best place for it.

“Let’s be honest, we have all impulse-purchased a beautiful plant with no plan on where it will live,” he says. “It’s OK to move them around, but many of the signs of inappropriate lighting can take weeks or months to show up.”

Researching beforehand helps you pick the right spot without damaging the plant.

3. Not adjusting your watering routine

Watering may need adjusting during the summer because of the longer, warmer days, and fans or air conditioning can dry plants out.

“That could be a good thing if you’re heavy-handed in your watering,” Godlove says. “Just be sure to check on them more often during the summer.”

How much should you water your plants? While once a week is a good rule of thumb, you should feel the top few inches of soil to see if it’s dry. If so, the plant needs more water.

All that said, don’t overwater, either: Never let plants sit in water for too long because bacteria could grow, causing root rot and fungus gnats.

4. Repotting unnecessarily

Scroll through Instagram and Pinterest, and you’ll find many cute planters and pots. But know that repotting houseplants unnecessarily could harm them.

Double-potting by placing the plant’s plastic nursery container inside a decorative pot is the best approach, Creed says.

“The plant will be much happier if you leave the soil and the roots alone,” he says. A plant needs to be repotted only when the roots have expanded to the point where the plant needs to be watered three times a week.

“If you need to water the plant thoroughly more than twice a week, that means that the root-to-soil ratio indicates it’s ready for a pot one size larger,” Creed says. “But that’s more unusual than people think.”

If you need to repot, choose a pot just 2 inches larger, Godlove says.

“While jumping to a larger pot might seem logical, it often is harmful to the root system,” he says. “A pot too large will hold too much excess water that the plant doesn’t need, leading to root rot.”

Make sure to keep the roots and soil intact and undisturbed if you repot, Creed says, and add new soil.

5. Not setting up a plant-care plan when traveling

If you plan to be away for a few days this summer, you need a plan for your plants.

“If you’re going to be traveling, move [houseplants] a few feet away from the light source to prevent them from drying out,” Godlove says.

Leave the air conditioning running to keep the indoor temperature stable, Creed suggests.

Watering them before you head out of town may be enough. For plants that still need watering while you’re away, use a wick-watering system, a device that you fill with water and place in your plant’s soil. The plant will draw water from the reservoir once the soil dries out.

“If you can reduce the light and the temperature, then they’re not going to need as much water as they normally do,” Creed says.

The post 5 Dumb Ways You Could Kill Your Houseplants This Summer appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Tarek El Moussa’s Top 9 Upgrades That Will Add Major Value to a House

therealtarekelmoussa / Instagram

Tarek El Moussa is known best for flipping houses with his ex-wife, Christina Anstead, on their long-running HGTV show “Flip or Flop” (whose ninth season is coming soon).

In the meantime, El Moussa has been plenty busy with his new show, “Flipping 101 With Tarek El Moussa.”

In “Flipping 101,” El Moussa teaches novice flippers how to renovate homes to boost their value—and fetch top dollar on the sale. To his credit, his protégés almost always turn a profit!

So what’s El Moussa’s secret to helping these beginner flippers succeed, when so many newbies crash and burn?

After analyzing every episode of the show’s first season, we noticed that El Moussa turned to certain upgrades again and again, and that they never failed to impress buyers and inspire top offers.

Here are his suggestions for making a flip look luxe, just in case you’re considering a few upgrades to your own home that may pay off down the road!

1. Big showers

This large shower adds a feeling of opulence.

HGTV

El Moussa knows that great bathrooms can sell houses, so he’s always telling flippers to double down when they start thinking about the master bathroom—especially when it comes to shower size.

El Moussa knows that giant showers look luxe and elegant, so he’s always willing to knock down walls and commandeer closets in order to get an extra few inches of shower space.

Apparently, he’s not the only one who loves this feature. Whenever his flipping students take his advice and prioritize shower size, the offers roll in big-time.

2. Accent tile in the bathroom

This tile accent makes a plain bathroom look stylish.

HGTV

Although the size of a shower seems to be El Moussa’s biggest bathroom priority, when he can’t go big, he always goes bold, with style.

One way he brings that extra El Moussa flair into a flipper’s bathroom design is recommending an accent tile for the floor and soap niche. This tiny detail gives the loo a luxe look that can help boost the price.

3. Tile on kitchen islands and peninsulas

El Moussa loves adding an extra splash of color.

HGTV

Tile kitchen backsplashes are a must-have in any flip, but when the backsplash isn’t enough, El Moussa tells flippers to bring some extra color into a kitchen, by giving the kitchen island or peninsula some tile, too.

El Moussa knows that some modern accent tile on the peninsula can help make the kitchen pop, giving the space a little extra color and style.

4. A blank slate backyard

This yard is simple but beautiful.

HGTV

El Moussa knows that backyards are important to buyers, but he also knows that investing a bunch of money in the yard can be a waste. Why spend on a patio or pool when the next owner may want something different?

He often tells his students to skip the high-end backyard features and simply make sure that it looks presentable. El Moussa is a big fan of new grass and mulch, which provide a fresh look and a clean slate for the next owner to work with.

5. Modern stairway railings

This staircase now looks much more modern.

HGTV

A lot of El Moussa’s flips in Southern California have two stories—and that means a staircase.

Stairs can be either a great feature or an eyesore, depending on the style, which is why El Moussa likes to pay special attention to this feature.

He’s quick to suggest replacing an outdated banister and railing with a modern black design. Then, any time he sees carpet on the steps, he also insists replacing it with hardwood instead, to match the rest of the house.

In the end, El Moussa always proves that a little extra investment in the stairs can make a big difference to the whole house.

6. An open floor plan, no matter what the cost

The flippers knocked down a wall in order to get this open floor plan.

HGTV

El Moussa knows that buyers will pay top dollar for an open floor plan, so even though busting down walls may be expensive, it’s nearly always worth it.

Most flippers heed this advice, but the few who don’t, pay the price, getting feedback from buyers that rooms seem small or cut off from the rest of the home.

7. Dramatically dark tile

The flippers wanted a black bathroom. Of course, El Moussa loved the look!

HGTV

While many buyers love light tile, El Moussa often goes against the grain by advising flippers to choose darker tones.

While a black shower or a dark kitchen may not be for everyone, this choice is an easy way to bring a more luxurious, high-end look into a house.

8. Chic wallpaper

This wallpaper gives the bedroom extra style.

HGTV

Wallpaper has long shed its reputation as fussy and outdated. El Moussa loves using fun wallpaper in his designs, and is always telling flippers to do the same.

It’s an easy and inexpensive way to give any room an accent feature that buyers will love.

9. A fireplace that makes a statement

This tile is the perfect choice.

HGTV

El Moussa knows that the fireplace is often the focal point of a living room, so he loves to make it stand out.

Some of his favorite fireplace designs include modern, patterned tile and clean marble slabs, both of which look amazing in a modern home, and can really increase its value. The perfect fireplace can often be a big selling point.

A slab for the fireplace always looks fabulous.

HGTV

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