Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

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  • How to Declutter and Organize a Home Office

    Are you struggling to declutter and organize a home office? Over the last few years, many people had to pivot to work-from-home situations quickly. While the temporary setups worked wonders at first, you might find that you need more permanent solutions to keep your space free of clutter. And even if you have had a home office for years, you might be looking for affordable solutions for arranging your room to make it more inspiring and increase your productivity. Below, we reveal some of our favorite tips for how to organize a home office and create a space that you love.

    Tame Paper Clutter

    Before starting to organize a home office, you need to tackle the clutter. Seeing piles of paper and supplies crowding a workspace rarely sparks creativity. Not only is it pushing you to confine your activities to a smaller work area, but it’s also likely increasing your stress levels before you even begin your work for the day. Simply host Brandi Milloy tells readers at Real Simple that paperwork should be sorted into three distinct piles: “file, shred, do.” Material that needs to be kept should be filed. Anything you don’t need should be sent to the trash bin or shredded if it includes sensitive information. The last “do” pile represents your physical inbox. If you can handle whatever is in the pile right away, go ahead and do that and move on. If this paper represents a longer-term task, set it aside in an inbox to be tackled as soon as possible. The sooner you deal with these piles that are weighing down your office, the lighter you will feel.

    Take Inventory

    Now that the paper has been dealt with, you should have a better view of what your workspace currently holds. Whether you have a separate room or a dedicated area in your kitchen or living room, assess what items take up space. If toys, clothes, or gadgets have migrated onto or around your desk, put them back where they belong. When you organize a home office, you want that valuable real estate to be as free of extras as possible.

    Arrange Your Desk

    Now that your desk has been cleared of extraneous papers, supplies, and unwanted extras, you can focus on arranging it for maximum productivity and comfort. If your goal is to organize a home office for optimal feng shui, expert Ashley Cantley tells Real Simple that “the desk should face where you can see who is coming and going from the room.” Once your desk is optimally placed, you’ll want to keep it streamlined. If you have a steady flow of “to-do” paperwork, keep a physical inbox on your desk so that this paperwork is corralled and not misplaced. If your desk has a top drawer, this is a terrific spot to store daily-use items, like a wireless keyboard, notepads, pens, headphones, etc. Be sure you have a task light or adjustable floor lamp, and only keep supplies you are using for your given project by your side. Also, keep binders and file folders in a file cabinet or on a shelf rather than on your desk to eliminate crowding when you work.

    Organize a Home Office Command Center

    Do you have a group of key peripherals and supplies? Experts at The Spruce recommend creating a command center where items like your printer, files, cork board, shipping materials, and necessary supplies are located. The Magazine suggests that “the benefit of clustering essential items into a centralized area of your space means you have immediate access to critical paperwork and supplies, preventing them from being misplaced and cluttering other areas of your office.” A small table, rolling cart with locking wheels, or even a repurposed bookcase can be quickly turned into a dedicated space that will remarkably improve your home office’s flow and keep your area organized.

    Include File Cabinets

    Even if most of your files are kept in the cloud, you will likely still have paperwork you must keep. From project binders to tax returns, you want essential papers to have a secure home when you organize your office. If you have a lot of physical documents, Real Simple recommends choosing a three-drawer file cabinet that blends in with your overall design aesthetic.

    The editors at The Spruce agree that having enough storage is the key to an organized home office. The Magazine applauds the idea of installing a wall of low cabinets if you have the budget and square footage to make it work. You can have bespoke cabinets built, but that may take more time and money than you want to spend. The Magazine suggests that as you arrange your new office, you should “consider stock kitchen cabinets from a home improvement store that can do the same job hiding office supplies and files.” Once the low row of cabinets are in place, “top cabinets with a length of countertop for extra workspace.”

    Want a storage option that is filled with character as well as your paperwork? My Domaine recommends using vintage filing cabinets, which can be found at consignment shops, through restoration experts, and even at flea markets. Among their favorites are “early 20th-century solid oak cabinets with metal plates” and “a 1940s industrial-era file cabinet (like one by Steel Furniture Mfg. Co.) with brass hardware.”

    Consider Decorative Bins

    If you have watched any episode of Get Organized with The Home Edit, you know that decorative bins can be used to organize your entire home, from your pantry to your shoe closet. It’s no surprise then that decorative containers and attractive boxes with lids and labels are also being used to house the artifacts of projects in home offices. My Domaine is a fan of using multiple small organizers for supplies; “That way everything can have its own space, and you’ll always be able to find a pen without scrambling.”

    Employ Shelving

    If you don’t want a filing cabinet but need more storage than bins allow, My Domaine suggests hanging shelving instead. The Magazine reveals: “Whether you fill an entire wall with open shelving or simply employ one or two to hold your things, shelves can provide an easy place to store documents and display a few cherished items.” Even repurposing a bookcase can be “ideal for an office since it has open shelves to contain everything from paper trays to books, to stylish accents.” Just be sure to edit the shelving periodically to avoid overstuffing.

    Does your home office also need to serve as a showroom? For those who need to display items, The Spruce remarks that a cubby system using decorative storage baskets might be the best solution for your needs. The Magazine explains: “The beauty of a cubby system is that it’s naturally neat, symmetrical, and perfectly proportioned to give the appearance of organization.”

    Hide the Cords

    If you have a spider web of cords spun through your home office, reaching a sense of calm in your new space will be difficult. Cord clips can hide desk cords by allowing you to run them down the legs of your desk. If your desk isn’t close to an electrical outlet, Simply host Brandi Milloy advises in Real Simple that people should “invest in a decent-size surge protector that has USB ports and plenty of outlets for all your devices,” which is then stored “in a cable organizer box” behind a desk. Milloy suggests that if you are concerned that the new setup might cause a tripping hazard, buy a cord cover that blends into your office décor. However, she cautions against “[hiding] your cords under a rug, as it’s a fire hazard.”

    DIY a Cork Wall 

    If you want the ability to plot a project’s schedule or stages using visual cues, or you want to be able to see appointments or project details at a glance, creating a cork wall may be the perfect organizational tool for you. My Domaine reveals: “You can buy a roll of cork and DIY a whole wall, or you can get one sheet of cork and temporarily secure it” to display “your calendars, schedules, to-do lists, reminders, and quotes to keep you going.”

    Surround Yourself with Inspiration

    The last thing you want when you organize a home office is to create a bland cubicle. If you have put up your cork board or wall, pin to it any inspiring clippings or aspirational images you have been saving. The Spruce advises that by using the vertical space you have created, “you’ll give them a place to live instead of left in a forgotten pile of papers.”

    Inspiring artwork is also key to improving your new home office’s feng shui. Expert Ashley Cantley remarks to Real Simple that on your journey toward a more inspiring workspace, you should “‘place images of people you admire and aspire to be like and use positive mantras painted or hanging on the wall.’”

    Add Green Details

    Don’t forget the green details. Incorporating thriving plants into your office will not only inspire you, but they may have a calming impact as you seek to create in the room. Cantley advises Real Simple that “any plant that has a rounded leaf,” “a succulent garden potted in a wood trough,” or “flowering plants (purple and red)” are good feng shui choices and make for beautiful accents for your newly organized home office.

  • Long-Term Eco-Friendly Home Investments for a More Sustainable Future

    Eco-friendly home improvements can significantly benefit the planet and your wallet. While making choices like purchasing energy-efficient appliances, replacing windows, and switching to renewables to power your home will require an up-front investment, over time, they can make a remarkable difference in the amount of energy you use and waste. Read on as we reveal some of the long-term investments you can make to reduce your carbon footprint while creating a comfortable and eco-friendly home.

    Convert Your Home from Gas to Electric

    As cleaner, renewable energy sources become more available, the benefits of converting your home from natural gas to electric multiply. Air source heat pumps are considerably more energy efficient than gas-powered furnaces. And while gas line leaks are relatively rare, carbon monoxide poisoning from home equipment is a consideration, particularly during the winter months when windows aren’t open for venting.

    The advantages of electric kitchens alone may make you consider electrifying your home, despite the cost of capping off gas lines. Rachelle Boucher, executive chef, electric kitchens expert, and founder of Kitchens to Life, explains to Martha Stewart Living: “‘Natural gas creates unacceptable amounts of pollution with methane and particulate matter in the air. With induction there’s less need for air conditioning and ventilation.’” You are also eliminating open flames in the kitchen, which reduces the chances of you (or your children) being burned or sparking kitchen fires. You might be surprised at another advantage of transitioning to an eco-friendly induction cooktop: faster, precision cooking.

    Choose Air Source Heat Pumps

    If you have a traditional combustion or electric resistance furnace (or boiler) and want to create a more eco-friendly home, it may be time to transition to an air source heat pump. A modern air source heat pump (aka mini split) is a cooling and heating system that is highly efficient, provides consistent temperature comfort (even in frigid weather), and offers precise temperature controls. It also can save up to 40 percent off your energy bills. Existing state and city energy programs may be available to subsidize your transition — making this investment even more attractive.

    Invest in Eco-Friendly Solar Power 

    One of the best ways to save energy and design an eco-friendly home is to make the switch to solar power. Zillow Lifestyle Expert Amanda Pendleton advises Real Simple: “‘Not only can adding solar panels to a home save energy costs and help the environment, but Zillow research finds homes with solar panels sell for 2.6 percent more.’” While the initial investment is pricey (approximately $15,000), you will start seeing your energy savings immediately. On sunny days, you are likely to generate far more energy than you need to consume; that energy can be traded to the utility. On high-usage days, you still have access to the grid, should you need more power. Additionally, your bill will not fluctuate the way it does when it is tied to fossil fuel prices. There are also numerous tax credits and rebates (federal, state, and municipal) to help pay for your new solar system. In fact, you can get about 30% of the total system costs refunded to you through a federal tax credit when you file your annual income taxes.

    Martha Stewart Living recently highlighted the Solar United Neighbors organization that represents “solar homeowners, community-based solar projects, and clean energy” as a resource for anyone thinking of making the change. Think of it as a “Solar Co-Op” where neighbors commit to enjoying the benefits of investing in sustainable energy together. The Magazine applauds: “SUN is especially unique in that it helps homeowners throughout the entire installation process, from recruiting co-op members, to assessing your roof and finding the right installers.”

    Add New Layers of Insulation 

    When your home doesn’t have the optimal amount of insulation, your heating and cooling systems strain to keep your rooms comfortable. The pros at Better Homes & Gardens advise that “[adding] fiberglass insulation to your attic floor and house walls [can] save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs,” as it can significantly mitigate energy loss. Other insulation products, like mineral wool, polyisocyanurate panels, sheep’s wool, and denim insulation are also environmentally friendly options The Spruce recommends.

    Install Skylights

    Maximizing your home’s access to daylight can be critical to keeping energy use low. The experts at Better Homes & Gardens suggest hiring contractors to “install skylights in rooms with no windows.” As the Magazine advises, well-positioned skylights can bring so much daylight into your space that “during the day, you might not need to turn on a light.” Skylights can also help you warm the room naturally during the colder months. And not only can skylights improve the value of your home, but you may be eligible for tax credits to help offset the cost of installation.

    Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows

    If you want to upgrade to a more eco-friendly home, it might be time to invest in new windows. Real Simple is a fan of installing double-pane options. The Magazine reports: “According to the Edison Electric Institute, heat leaks through a single glass pane about 14 times faster than it does through a well-insulated wall.” The experts at Better Homes & Gardens agree and suggest looking for “Energy Star-rated windows” that are “labeled low-emissivity (low-E) or spectrally selective,” which reduce “thermal heat transfer.”

    Buy a Tankless Water Heater

    If you have started assessing your options for replacing your current water heater, you’ll want to consider the benefits of transitioning to a tankless system. While swapping your system will require a bigger investment than replacing it with a more conventional model, experts estimate that tankless water heaters can reduce your energy usage by up to 25 percent and significantly limit water waste – a particularly appealing benefit if you live in areas of the United States that are plagued by drought.

    For homeowners, a whole-house tankless water heater is likely to be more beneficial than installing point-of-use tankless heaters because, as The Spruce explains, these “units have higher GPM flow rate capacity and can handle the demand for more than one fixture at a time.” Among the units favored by the Magazine, the “Rheem Performance 7.03 GPM Tankless Electric Water Heater” gets a nod for the best overall electric unit because of its performance and ease of operation.

    Purchase Energy Star Appliances

    Better Homes & Gardens cautions: “Major appliances are your home’s third-biggest energy hog, behind heating, cooling, and water heating.” It’s not surprising that investing in eco-friendly Energy Star appliances can lead to a significant reduction in energy waste and sizeable savings on your bills. The Spruce reports, “appliances carrying the Energy Star rating typically are 10 percent to 20 percent more energy efficient than non-rated models.” Check the bright yellow EnergyGuide labels that specify each appliance’s annual energy consumption and the costs of operating the machine while investigating which models will work the best in your home.

    Landscape to Save on Energy Costs

    Creating eco-friendly homes includes making smart landscaping choices. In regions that will support them, Better Homes & Gardens proposes “[planting] deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your house” because [in] summer, the leaves will shade your house; in winter, the bare branches will let the sun through for added warmth.” In areas experiencing water restrictions due to drought, consider removing grass in favor of sustainable native plantings that require less water while still attracting and supporting birds, butterflies, and bees.

  • Choosing Green Furniture for Your Home

    Eco-friendly interior design choices, like selecting green furniture for the home, are increasingly popular. Buyers are choosing décor made from sustainable materials, vintage furnishings, or pieces utilizing environmentally friendly production methods. In fact, simply choosing a piece that is made locally or transported using high-efficiency practices can reduce the carbon footprint associated with that purchase. If you are interested in making more earth-friendly decorating choices, read on as we review some of the easiest and most affordable ways to find green furniture that you will love.

    Check for the Seal

    When buying new green furniture, check if the piece you are considering has a Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) seal. Member manufacturers pledge to take significant steps to reduce and minimize their carbon footprint. Cradle to Cradle certification is another excellent tool for determining if a particular piece of furniture was made sustainably. The Spruce explains: “The certification covers factors such as eco-friendly materials, renewable energy use, water use, and impact on people and communities.” The certification applies to items made anywhere in the world and can be found on products from furniture to eco-friendly window treatments and flooring.

    Select Vintage or Secondhand Items

    Martha Stewart Living is a big fan of buying “kinder” furniture when designing more eco-friendly rooms. Thrifting for secondhand finds, restoring family heirloom pieces, and shopping for vintage treasures are easy ways to add green furniture to your home. From Chesterfield sofas to Knoll tables, you’ll love incorporating storied pieces that will instantly give your space a bespoke feeling while supporting your eco-friendly design goals. Plus, a unique secondhand find is an instant conversation starter when entertaining.

    Interior designer Rebecca Hay agrees that for anyone searching for a green way forward, vintage or secondhand furniture has numerous benefits beyond having little to zero carbon footprint. Hay relates to My Domaine: “‘Older craftsman furniture has been made to last, and has a longer lifespan over new big-box store furniture that is sometimes not well-built, causing you to shop again and throw away yet another piece of furniture into a landfill, and the imperfections in the furniture add to its character and can tell an old story in a new space.’”

    Choose Furniture Made from Renewable Resources

    Green furniture is crafted from materials that are recycled, repurposed, or exhibit other eco-friendly qualities, including being made from renewable resources. The Spruce notes that “bamboo grows quickly and easily, so it’s a good choice for a renewable resource.” Furniture made from wicker and rattan are also appealing options, according to the Magazine, for anyone looking “for ways to reduce the use of plastics and manmade materials in the home.”

    When choosing wood furniture, the experts tell The Spruce that shoppers should focus on “solid wood like walnut, teak, oak, or maple.” As opposed to particleboard or MDF, solid wood furniture will last longer and does not rely on chemical adhesives to stay together.

    Also, look for natural fibers on upholstered furniture. Jute is a durable, natural fiber often seen wrapping headboards and bed frames in rustic-chic bedrooms. Designer Niche Interiors explains to The Spruce that they are committed to sustainable design and focus on building “custom upholstered pieces made from natural latex foam wrapped in organic wool.” Furniture upholstered in linen can showcase a fabric that is biodegradable, versatile, and stylish. Organic linens in natural tones do not go through the bleaching processes common to pure white versions of the material and avoid the use of harmful dyes.

    Support Sustainable Manufacturing

    If possible, before purchasing new furniture, investigate a company’s manufacturing practices. Do they support fair trade policies? Do they work to mitigate potential harm to the community or the environment where the piece is produced? Looking for a sustainable certification may help answer these questions, but not always.

    You’ll also want to focus on purchasing furniture that uses nontoxic stains, paint, or sealants; otherwise, you risk off-gassing as the new furnishings can release some unhealthy fumes into the air. As Niche Interiors tells The Spruce, they like “to avoid mass produced furniture upholstered with petroleum-based flame retardants,” opting instead for working with local artisans for handcrafted furniture that employ safe, organic elements.

    Buy Locally

    One way to ensure that your furniture is greener is to thrift from nearby sellers or buy from area craftspeople who build furniture using locally sourced renewable materials. Of course, that isn’t always an option. If you are hoping to acquire a new item that needs to be shipped, check how the company transports its goods to your area. Review their website to see if the company makes efforts to reduce packaging or strives for other efficiencies.

    Rent the Trends

    Generally speaking, designers will caution against decorating with the trends in mind. As the experts at My Domaine suggest, “focus on what you love—not what everyone else loves.” Following this mantra will help your space stand the test of time and reduce the waste that often comes with trying to keep up with the latest styles. However, if a trend has captured your imagination, there is a more sustainable way to test it in your home. Kimberly White, Head of Home Quality Standards & Design at Vacasa, tells The Spruce: “Renting furniture items is another trend that is in line with sustainable practices yet still allows consumers to enjoy the latest looks.”

  • New Traditional Style

    The New Traditional home trend is making its way into our homes and our hearts. Max Wilker, Style Director at Dotdash Meredith, discusses how the look is all about utilizing what was once old and reimagining it with a fresh new finish or bold print fabric. Traditional styling offers chic layering of classic furniture with contemporary accessories. Wilker states, “It’s about freely mixing decades of furnishings with colors, silhouettes, and proportions all working together for a cohesive look.” Discover how to transform your home below.

    How to achieve the New Traditional style:

    • Find velvet chairs – preferably in a deep, rich tone to anchor the room
    • Create a traditional fireplace
    • Look for pieces with embroidered details
    • Try floral wallpapers
    • Design with gold and brass lighting and accessories
    • Use a mix of wood stains
    • Find a vintage brass mirror
    • Incorporate a traditional wingback chair
    • Use furniture with simple lines and minimal ornamentation
    • Colors to use include deep rich tones of green, blue, purple, and burgundy balances with softer and more neutral hues

     

  • Ten Important Steps Before Relocating

    Getting ready to relocate and move is both exciting and challenging. With all the details, being well-prepared is crucial for success. Discover the ten important steps before relocating to ensure a smoother transition.

    1. Do the Research

    Are you moving out of town or to another state? Either way, research to get a feel for the location. Request local brochures and maps from the chamber of commerce to learn more about the various neighborhoods. Researching helps you prepare for a new lifestyle in another area.

    Search online and local townships to familiarize yourself with demographics, schools, crime, and real estate. Also, find out the proximity to places such as shopping, medical facilities, and recreation. House hunters need to learn this information firsthand as real estate agents cannot discuss these factors.

    1. Establish a Moving Budget

    How much will it cost to move? Moving is typically more expensive the further you go. First, consider the cost of travel, packing and moving essential items, garbage removal, storage, and other moving expenses. Then, decide how much you can spend on the move to make decisions such as hiring a moving company versus doing it yourself in a rental truck. 

    Plus, consider other costs after moving. For example, will expenses such as auto insurance cost more? Figure these expenses into your new household budget. Also, will you need to pay taxes in two places? Some questions may require assistance from a financial professional. Finally, always try to put away extra money for unexpected expenses.

    1. Map Out the Relocation Site

    Do you know the place you’re moving to? If possible, visit the relocation site to map out the area. Then, visit local venues to feel the neighborhood and decide where you would be comfortable. Also, many home buyers want to live near places of employment to minimize their commute.

    Consider whether you want to be near shopping and schools or natural features, such as parks and lakes. Google Maps can help you figure out the layout, especially if you can’t take a trip to the place. In addition, understanding the layout of the land enables you to search for properties in preferred areas.

    1. Get Organized

    Do you have everything you need together? Getting organized is critical during the hectic days when you relocate and move. Establish a moving file that stays with you through the journey. Include necessary paperwork, such as deeds and recent tax returns. Consider storing personal documents in a safe deposit box, such as birth certificates and marriage licenses. Remember to take them with you when moving.

    Then clean out your home and storage unit to streamline the moving process. Most people have more unnecessary items around than they think. If this is the case, get a dumpster to quickly and efficiently dispose of junk. Plus, your house shows better when it is tidy and uncluttered. 

    1. Assemble Your Professional Team

    Are you ready for some help relocating? A successful move requires assistance from a professional team. First, find your preferred mortgage broker, real estate agent, accountant, lawyer, moving company, and handyman. Verify their credentials and discuss the terms to ensure everything goes smoothly. Also, choose professionals who communicate effectively and make you feel at ease.

    Then ask the critical questions about relocating so you are well-prepared. For example, a mortgage pre-approval helps you know how much you can spend on a new house. A dedicated team provides valuable information to help you make the best decisions.

    1. Find a New Home

    Are you prepared to relocate and move? Once everything is in order, it’s time to find your new home! Enlist the assistance of your professional team to find the right house. Also, your real estate agent can offer resources to help you search online to find potential properties. Finally, remember to include house hunting time in your busy schedule.

    If your employer is paying for relocation, get the financials in order. Are you unable to travel to see the homes? Fortunately, video tours and 3D visuals help house hunters shop remotely. Ask your agent about live tours on social media so that you can ask questions along the way. Once you find the right house, work with your team to prepare the paperwork and review the terms to ensure everything goes smoothly. 

    1. Plan Out Packing

    What do you need to be comfortable in your new house? Many people relocating decide to buy new furniture and essentials. If so, make sure to have accurate measurements for everything to fit correctly in the rooms. However, you will still need to move clothing, photos, and other personal items.

    Start by packing a suitcase of necessities for each household member if the move is delayed or items are lost. Everyone will be more comfortable with a change of clothes and underwear, pajamas, and toiletries. Are you hiring a mover or doing it yourself? Either way, get the essential supplies and mark everything so unpacking is easier.

    1. Monitor Memberships and Licenses

    Are you a professional, drive a car, or have pets? Relocating out of state usually means getting new licenses. Find out the requirements to get to work, drive, and have the dogs when you move. Plus, keep in mind items such as a library card that you’ll need in a new neighborhood.

    Other considerations are club memberships and utilities. If you belong to a community organization, you may need to join another chapter or club when you move. Additionally, you may need utilities in two locations to move smoothly. Simplify the process using a free moving concierge service, such as Moved.com.

    1. Pick the Moving Date

    Are the contracts signed and a closing date set? Now it’s time to choose the moving date! 

    Keep in mind factors such as work and school schedules, weather, and availability of movers to pick a date. Also, moving during the holidays or weekends often means paying higher service rates. 

    Ideally, start packing about a month before the moving date. Give yourself plenty of time sorting, organizing, ordering moving supplies, and packing. Take advantage of services such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill that pick up donations for free, such as furniture or bedding in good condition.

    1. Be Ready for Your New Neighborhood

    Are you ready for your new neighborhood? From joining a new gym to establishing a primary care physician, start preparing for the move. Cancel old memberships and create new ones. Also, ask for essential records to register for school and new medical providers. For example, many schools request evidence of immunization.

    Also, are you driving to the new house? If not, you may need to schedule a car transfer service. Remember to forward your mail, register to vote, and let everyone know you are relocating. Finally, consider hiring a cleaning service and handyman so you can move in with peace of mind. And make sure you have keys to your new house – and you leave keys for the new owners of your old one!

    Are you concerned about deciding to relocate and move? That’s okay because everyone feels that way. However, following these ten important steps before relocating helps ensure a smooth move!

  • Tips for Planting a Window Box

    Planting a window box filled with colorful blooms and greenery is a terrific, low-maintenance way to enhance your house’s exterior instantly. It’s also an appealing option for people living in condos or apartments without outdoor space who want to enjoy the benefits of a garden. If you are intrigued by the possibilities, read on as we reveal tips for designing and planting a lushly beautiful window box. 

    Choose the Right Window Box

    Choosing the best window box for your needs is critical. Not only do you want it to fit your preferred space and look stylish, but you need to be able to hang it safely. Better Homes & Gardens cautions: “Don’t underestimate how heavy a window box can be—it is filled with soil and plants, and gets even heavier when watered.” The Magazine recommends a window box built from “a hardwood like redwood or cedar rather than pine, which rots quickly, and then securing the box with a window box bracket like the Panacea Holdall Flower Box Holder.” 

    If you are concerned that a wood box might be too heavy to hang from your window or balcony railing, Southern Living advises that “[you can significantly reduce weight by using fiberglass window boxes ….” Fiberglass is a good weather-resistant, affordable option for anyone who lives in areas that see significant rainfall or snow and has windows or railings that aren’t protected by a roof or awning.

    Would you prefer a wrought iron option for your window box? While it does require a splurge, The Spruce loves the “H. Potter Copper and Wrought Iron Window Box.” This 30-inch window box has a higher price tag than many, “but rather than corrode, this 30-inch hand-crafted window box will only get better with time since it’s made from rust-resistant stainless steel and covered in a copper finish.” The wrought-iron frame is also weather-resistant, and the mounting and brackets make it easy to remove whenever necessary. 

    Check for Drainage

    No matter which container you buy, it must have proper drainage so excess water can flow out of the box’s reservoir when it gets too full. If you have the tools and the know-how, drilling holes in wood or fiberglass products is a snap. If you don’t have the tools on hand or want a steel or ceramic planter option, consider purchasing a pre-drilled product. 

    You’ll also want to leave some space between the window box and the side of your house, condo, or apartment. How much room? Southern Living suggests leaving “at least 1/2-inch between the window box and the side of the house for water to drip through,” especially if the home is clad with wood siding.  

    Buy Potting Mix

    When planting a window box or any container garden, you’ll want to buy potting mix rather than potting soil. The Spruce explains: “[Its] special combination of ingredients ensures that the mix retains moisture” and won’t compact around tender roots. Experts also believe that potting mix gives you more control over disease or weeds than you would have with soil.  

    Follow the Thriller-Filler-Spiller Rule

    When mapping your window boxes, you want to create an arrangement of blooms and greenery that pops against the colors of your home. And all of your plantings should have similar sun, shade, and watering requirements; otherwise, you are likely to struggle to balance the needs of each of the plants. Martha Stewart Living recommends following the “thriller-filler-spiller” rule for anyone planting a window box. The design guideline “calls for a tall, striking plant (“thriller”) centered in the box and serving as the focal point; smaller, complementary plants (“filler”) on each side and the bottom; and plants that flow over the edges (“spiller”).”  

    Determine Your Growing Conditions

    Will the plants in your window box have access to full sun (meaning more than six hours per day of direct sunlight), partial sun, or full shade? These growing conditions will profoundly impact which flowers, succulents, or vegetables will thrive after planting. If your site is particularly sunny, Martha Stewart Living suggests looking into “colorful flowering plants, like calibrachoas, a perennial that’s commonly seen in shades of violet, blue, pink, red, magenta, yellow, bronze, and white.” ‘Katrina’ African iris, which features “exotic flowers [that] top long, spiked leaves,” and ‘Sallyfun Deep Ocean’ salvia, which is known to be fragrant and a butterfly magnet, are among Better Homes & Gardens favorite full sun “thrillers.” 

    If you are planting a window box that will have partial sun, gardening expert Melinda Myers reports to Martha Stewart Living that “most petunias also do well in full to partial sun,” and “heliotrope has fragrant flowers that hummingbirds and butterflies love.” Myers is also a fan of pentas (as are butterflies) because it “blooms all season long and prefers full to partial sun.” Finally, Meyers loves “summer snapdragon, which (as its name implies) is perfect for the warm-weather season and features upright plants that are available in several colorways.”  

    Trailing lobelia is a great cascading option because while it thrives in full sun, it will still produce bold blue flowers (or purple, pink, or white, depending on which cultivar you plant) with partial shade. It’s an attractive option for planting below tall “thrillers.” Lotus vine, alyssum, verbenas, and plectranthus also offer significant spread for a beautiful cascading effect. Spiky cordyline is also not as finicky about sun exposure, with this “thriller” working with most soil types under full sun to partial shade conditions.

    Container gardens and window boxes dry out faster than in-ground gardens. Depending on the materials window boxes are made of, the potting mix can be super-heated, particularly in areas that experience significant heatwaves. Drought-tolerant plants are often a better fit, especially in summer. Expert Melinda Myers suggests to Martha Stewart Living that dipladenia and zinnias are terrific options because they come in a variety of brilliant colors, “profusion and zahara have good disease resistance,” and “icicles licorice, also known as helichrysum, [is] a great heat- and drought-tolerant plant.”

    Add Foliage

    While flowers can take some time to become glorious, leafy greens immediately have a lush look. Martha Stewart Living recommends planting foliage in your window box as they “do a good job of providing a background to the showier plants that will be a planter’s focal point.” If you are stumped for which greenery to choose, the Magazine suggests coleus because while “it’s usually thought of as a shade-loving plant, coleus comes in varieties, such as Purple Prince, that do well in full sun.”  

    Plant by Season

    If you live in an area of the United States that has dramatic shifts in temperature or experiences frost, Southern Living advises those planting a window box to grow blooms according to season. For example, the Magazine recommends planting “million bells [a colorful “filler”], lobelia, bacopa, twinspur, snapdragons, violas, nasturtiums, and flowering kale” for areas enjoying cool weather. When warm weather arrives, Southern Living suggests switching to “lantana, verbena, begonias, angelonia, impatiens, coleus, sweet potato vine, fanflower, narrowleaf zinnia, and Wave petunia” to beat the heat successfully.

  • Mid-Century Modern – Then and Now

    In honor of Better Homes & Gardens® celebrating its 100th anniversary, we are taking a look at previous home trends that are making their way back into our lives. Keep an eye out for more of our ‘Then and Now’ blogs to learn about these looks and how to achieve the trends we are thrilled have returned. 

    From the past to the present:  

    The midcentury modern movement originated during the middle of the 20th century and was the organic result of modernism. People wanted to embrace a more organic way of living which is why the style is rooted in functionality and simplicity with a lot of clean lines. After World War II, cities expanded, and the demand for modern furnishings for the newly built homes emerged. Technological advancements also resulted in the production of new materials, which led to the creation and exploration of unique shapes and various textures. 

    What makes up Mid-Century Modern design? 

    Mid-century modern is all about functional wooden pieces, clean lines, and curved designs. The look is simple, with a focus on comfort. It’s no surprise the aesthetic design remains timeless and is back in style. Mid-century modern homes usually have a sleek feel and mix natural and artificial materials. There’s also a continuity between the indoors and outdoors, which is why plants play a key role in the decor. This can also be seen in the color palette, which mostly consists of natural hues and colors rooted in nature. Pops of color are also added, especially bright yellows and beautiful teals. 

    How to achieve the Mid-Century Modern look: 

    • Embrace a natural color palette with a few pops of bright colors throughout.  
    • Consider olive green, pale pinks and other muted tones, orange, bright yellow, and a variety of teals and aquamarine colors. 
    • Build a space around a few statement pieces. 
    • Bring in potted plants. 
    • Focus on function. 
    • Incorporate wood furniture made of teak or oak. 
    • Include organic and curved shapes.  
    • Add brass details around your home. 
    • Hang big and bold artwork, especially with large graphic shapes.  
    • Favor statement lighting. Add hanging lights or pendant lighting that look like artwork.  
    • Embrace open spaces and aim for flow.  
    • Ditch the clutter and say goodbye to an abundance of knickknacks.  

  • How to Clean Your Home’s Surfaces

    Are you searching for tips on how to clean your home in the most effective and sustainable way? You are not alone. Over the last few years, people started looking for better ways to clean, sanitize, or disinfect their homes and quickly realized that not every product is suitable for every surface. In fact, some can be downright harmful. Below, we reveal some of our favorite tips for choosing the best products to clean your home’s surfaces. 

    Glass Windows

    Well-crafted glass windows and furniture can make your house or apartment sparkle. However, it can be tricky to figure out how to clean your home’s glass surfaces properly, which products to use, and how often to use them. For example, the experts at My Domaine recommend window washing every six months to allow for much-needed natural light to stream into your spaces. The pros at the Magazine are fans of using commercial cleaners on them or “a DIY mixture of one cup water, one cup rubbing alcohol, and one tablespoon vinegar,” which is often a less expensive way to break through residue for a streak-free result. Use a lint-free cloth (like microfiber cloths) so that you don’t have to worry about leaving fuzz behind. Save some of the DIY solution for weekly use on your glass tabletops to keep them fingerprint-free.

    Stainless Steel

    Many modern kitchens are filled with sleek stainless steel appliances. And while you may love the look, there is no question that these surfaces reveal fingerprints and spills more quickly than other finishes. Start by knowing the basics – you don’t want to apply flammable cleaning products to a gas stove or oven. You’ll also want to ensure that your new appliances don’t offer you specific warnings against using certain products before you begin cleaning. 

    Generally, you should avoid using oil-based formulas, glass cleaners, or alcohol-based cleaning products on your stainless steel appliances. Instead, Leanne Stapf—the Chief Operating Officer at The Cleaning Authority, suggests to Martha Stewart Living that people try “using products like baking soda that can revive dull stainless steel.” All you need to do is apply a small amount of baking soda to a damp, soft cloth and then buff it out and rinse. 

    Synthetic Stone Countertops

    While pretty solid-surface countertops are made to resemble stone, these attractive synthetic alternatives have different cleaning requirements. To keep these seamless counters looking their best, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe them down daily. For stained areas, gentle dish soap or ammonia-based products (like glass or all-purpose cleaners) can be used. Are you stumped on how to clean tougher stains from your solid-surface counters? For more difficult stains on shiny synthetic stone countertops, the experts at The Spruce suggest using “a liquid, mildly abrasive cleaner, while stains on non-shiny (matte) finishes are easily cleaned with a baking soda and water paste.”  

    Granite Counters

    If you are wondering how to clean your home’s granite countertops, experts agree that a gentle cleaner, like a Castile soap or dish soap, is your best bet. Jennifer Parnell, the co-founder of Humble Suds, tells Martha Stewart Living that the advantage of a gentle cleaner over more abrasive ones is that it “will prevent the erosion of the granite countertop’s sealant and won’t cause any physical damage to the stone.” She also advises the Magazine that before using all-purpose products on granite surfaces, “ensure they do not contain citric acid, bleach, or ammonia.” Dry the surface with a soft microfiber towel to remove any remaining residue or water, as both can stain granite countertops if left to sit for too long. 

    Marble Surfaces

    Marble tabletops and counters are beautiful to look at but surprisingly delicate and challenging to maintain. Scratches, chips, and stains can happen easily, although sealers should offer protection for a couple of years. According to Martha Stewart Living, the best way to clean your home’s marble surfaces is by dusting the surfaces regularly with a soft cloth and “[washing] the marble periodically with a cloth dampened with warm water, and, if necessary, a bit of mild dishwashing liquid.” Then, wipe down the surface again with another damp cloth. Never use abrasive cleansers on marble. Spills should be blotted and rinsed immediately to avoid staining. The Magazine also recommends “[applying] marble polish (available in hardware stores) on a regular basis to maintain the stone’s luster.” 

    Bathroom Tile

    While it makes sense that people might want to use bleach on all-white bathrooms, it may not be the best option if you want to preserve the longevity (and shine) of your bathroom tile. And bleach should never be used on colored tile surfaces. Instead, Better Homes & Gardens is a fan of using DIY cleaners, even on stubborn soap scum. The Magazine recommends “[mixing] 1/2-cup white distilled vinegar with a gallon of warm water.” This solution works well when scrubbing wall tile and counters (except those made of granite or marble) and mopping floors. 

    Shower Doors

    Shower doors can be challenging. You are often doing battle with hard-water build-up, mold, and soap scum. The experts agree that you should try to clean shower doors whenever you clean the bathroom – about once a week. While many heavy-duty products are on the market for this type of job, a variation on a DIY favorite can be effective. My Domaine recommends that you fill a clean spray bottle filled with a solution that is “2 parts white vinegar and 1 part dish soap.” Shake up the solution, spray it on the shower door, and let it sit for 30 minutes. Wipe the shower door down with a microfiber cloth, sponge, or eco-friendly Swedish dish cloth.  

    Wood Furniture

    When deciding how to best clean your home’s wood furniture, you’ll want to focus on cleaning products that enhance the piece’s natural shine while also protecting it against future sun damage. The Spruce loves Weiman’s Furniture Wipes because the wipes “not only clean dust and dirt off your wood surfaces, but they also polish them.” These wipes only use plant-based ingredients, so using them is safe for your kids and pets. As a bonus, the Magazine reveals that “[the] wipes also use a micro-filling technology to remove scratches and protect the surface from future scratches.”  

    Upholstered Furniture

    Better Homes & Gardens advises that you take a multi-step approach to deep cleaning your upholstered furniture: vacuum, spot clean, and sanitize. Regular vacuuming is ideal for removing pet hair and crumbs, and it’s a great place to start when deep cleaning. Spot cleaning with soap and water can quickly take care of the occasional spill, and it works well when dealing with “heavily soiled” areas. The final step to sanitizing your upholstered furniture, according to Better Homes & Gardens, may be using products “like OxiClean Laundry and Home Sanitizer or Febreze Antimicrobial Fabric Spray.” But before you begin, the Magazine cautions, “as with any cleaning agent or fabric surface, it’s always best practice to test your sanitizing products for colorfastness on an inconspicuous spot before using it on the entire surface area.” 

    Household Electronics

    Our households feature a lot of electronics that need a delicate hand when cleaning and disinfecting. While you need to stop moisture from getting inside your electronic devices, you still want to remove grime, germs, and dust on your screens, remote controls, gaming systems, and computer peripherals. Editors at The Spruce hailed Weiman Electronic Cleaning Wipes as the best way to clean your favorite electronics. The Magazine explains: “Weiman Electronic Wipes are designed to remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints without leaving behind lint or streaks. The formula creates a protective film on your devices that prevents scratches and repels the static that attracts dust and dirt.”  

    For disinfecting your portable electronic devices, you may need to turn to Clorox Disinfecting Wipes. Just be sure to squeeze out any extra liquid from the wipe before using it on your phone or tablet. Then dry the surface with a microfiber cloth to get rid of any residue. 

    Hardwood Floors

    Knowing how to clean your home’s hardwood floors can be challenging because you want to deep clean them without warping them or leaving them scratched. Start by removing loose dirt using a cloth duster, vacuum with a hard floor attachment, or soft broom. Next, Mary Gagliardi, the Clorox in-house scientist and cleaning expert, tells Martha Stewart Living that mopping hardwood floors with a solution of “one-fourth cup of Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner … with a gallon of water” once a week will get rid of grime while making the floor shine. 

    An Ace Hardware helpful expert, Lou Manfredini, cautions against using vinegar on hardwood flooring. Why? Manfredini explains that “vinegar is an acid and long-term use will dull the floors.” If you are searching for a natural-based cleaning solution, he instead recommends to Martha Stewart Living that people should choose an option “like Bona No Scent Floor Cleaner Liquid,” which can be sprayed onto the floor directly, left to sit for two minutes, and then mopped up without a need for rinsing.

  • Focus the Hunt

    Finding the right place is the most difficult step in the home buying process. Keep these things in mind to help hone your search.

    NEW (NOT FOREVER) HOME

    First-time buyers might want to look for a starter home (length of stay: three to five years) instead of their dream home, so they can save money and build equity.

    SQUARE FOOTAGE (NOT ROOM COUNT)

    In the past, counting bedrooms and bathrooms would help you get a sense of how big a home is. But today’s construction methods and fix-and-flips allow builders and remodelers to be creative with tight spaces. “Think about how spacious you want your home to feel,” says Joseph Magsaysay of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Preferred Properties in St. Louis. “Usable square footage is a better indicator of roominess and comfort level than bedroom and bath counts alone.”

    LOCATION (SHORT AND LONG TERM)

    If you plan to stay in your home for longer than five years, think beyond nearby coffee shops and proximity to work. Also look at long-term needs like schools and hospitals that become more important as you age.

    SOURCE: BETTER HOMES & GARDENS® MAY 2022 ISSUE

  • Let’s Talk Money

    Best Mortgage Practices

    Before you start comparing houses, find a lender who can work with your financial situation and offer the most mortgage options. Five things to keep in mind:

    PREQUALIFIED VS. PREAPPROVED
    Mortgage prequalification gives buyers a sense of how much home they can afford. Preapproval requires documentation of the buyers’ financial stability and credit history. Being preapproved lets sellers know you’re serious and ready to buy.

    COMPARE AND SAVE
    Many assume their local bank will deliver the best mortgage rates and terms. But online banks can also have competitive rates. Websites like bankrate.com and nerdwallet.com use your ZIP code, credit score, and other loan factors to see a list of competitive and licensed lenders.

    MORTGAGES ARE NOT ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL
    Ask your lender to explain the different mortgage options—such as fixed rate and adjustable rate—and help you determine the best financial fit.

    NO-MORTGAGE OPTIONS
    In 2021, 30 percent of home purchases were all cash buys. Some buyers are independently wealthy or investors. Others stockpile savings for years, choose to take out loans against retirement funds, or cash out stock options.

    MORTGAGE SAVINGS
    It can feel like a mortgage goes on forever. The simple step of making two extra payments a year—by paying half the monthly payment every two weeks instead—can shave years off your mortgage and save you thousands of dollars in interest over the lifetime of the loan. Check with your lender first to make sure it’s a viable option for you.

    Ways to Save on Home Insurance

    These tips can save money for first-time buyers and current homeowners.

    SHOP AROUND
    Like mortgages, it saves to shop around. Check out sites like hippo.com and policygenius.com to find the best coverage for the lowest cost in your area.

    BUNDLE UP
    Insurance companies offer discounts when you combine services. Auto and homeowners insurance are likely pairings, but recreational vehicles (ATVs and boats) and life insurance can also be combined.

    ADD SAFETY AND SECURITY FEATURES
    Putting in an alarm system, security cameras or installing an overhead sprinkler system, rather than just a smoke detector, may get you better rates.

    GET THE COVERAGE YOU ACTUALLY NEED
    Tragic stories exist of people being underinsured, but many people are overinsured and don’t realize it. Did you opt for a fine jewelry rider, forgetting that you have since gifted the family heirlooms? Did you mistakenly add earthquake insurance, although there hasn’t been one in your area in known history? The insurance you purchase needs to mesh with the reality of your risks and estimated losses. Look up weather risks, appraise any jewelry and art, and consider whether it is worthwhile to opt in or out of riders and additional coverage.

     

    Other Costs to Note

    EARNEST MONEY
    Also known as good faith money or deposit. It’s a portion of the down payment buyers include with their purchase offer.

    HOME INSPECTION
    A report conducted by a licensed inspector that gives buyers a better understanding of the condition of the home and what should be fixed.

    CLOSING COSTS
    Fees and processing expenses for obtaining a loan, usually around 3–5 percent of the home purchase price.

    MONTHLY FEES
    Property taxes, association dues, and utilities (could include garbage removal).

     

    The Key to Success in a Competitive Market
    “Home buyers should be preapproved and flexible on closing and possession dates.”
    —Katie Butler of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Reliance Partners in Sacramento, Yolo, and Placer counties

     

    CAUTION: DON’T WAIVE CONTINGENCIES
    Last year, some people felt compelled to waive contingencies (for financing, inspections, appraisals, and more) to make their offer look more desirable to a seller. Contingencies are safeguards for the buyer, so waiving them absolves the agent and seller from any responsibility.

     

    SOURCE: BETTER HOMES & GARDENS® MAY 2022 ISSUE